never driven team what to expect?

It's a lot like a marriage. You have to know when to give in, in order to keep it working.

Sleeping can be a big problem. Doesn't just matter that "you can go to sleep when you're tired." In a team operation, you can't. You don't sleep, you're tired, but you still have to drive your shift. I've heard a memory foam mattress on the lower bunk is worth it's weight in gold. This is the primary reason I run solo... hit a rough patch of road, and I generally don't get back to sleep.

Trust. You're betting your life the other guy is a great driver. And a myriad of other little social issues that we can all fall prey to.

Like the other's pointed out, you really don't want to wake up to that line - "Hey Jose, ummm, I got a little problem..." Used it on my partner once when I missed a turn on the Jersey turnpike, and ended up heading into downtown Newark. The expression on his face just waking up to that was priceless - and well worth the screw-up!

Figuring out the shift rotation... 10/10 (things keep changing) 12/12 - do you get half daylight each, or one gets all nights?

 

Trust.

This is pretty easy for me as my co-driver is my wife of 20 years. Granted we have only been running team for the past 18 months but it has been working out so far.

You will each need to find your strengths in regard to driving shifts. Some drivers prefer day light while others will prefer night. Try to pattern your driving when you are most alert.

While it is important to "drive your shift" it is far more important to recognize when you are fatigued and pull over than put yourself and your partner in danger.

It is far more important to park the truck for a couple of hours per day to get some quality rest than burn yourselfs out.

Ear plugs to sleep will help block out the noise of the truck radio or cb.

A small porta potty/camp type toilet or a urinal bottle will also help eliminate many stops during the day. Just be sure to keep handi wipes, paper towels, wet naps, and air fresheners on hand to help keep the truck from smelling like a toilet.

 

I have teamed several times and the towel trick works,, It's so easy to get back in the truck after getting a coffee and get going, only to realise your co driver is not in the bunk when you pull over to let them drive.

I have never left someone behind but there have been a few close calls.

One thing is to get along with your co driver is to remember to respect them and keep your dirty clothes , trash, etc stored away. And if your feet smell put your shoes in a plastic bag while your asleep.

And for the sake of both of you Shower regularly.


Also when your driving try not to forget there's someone sleeping back there and drive as smoothly as possible. The better sleep they get the safer you will be when its there turn to drive.

And never think that when its your turn to drive that you have drive if your not feeling well or tired cause you were not able to get good rest.

No load is worth killing your self or your co-driver.

Teaming is good fun with the right person, you will have a blast.

Good Luck