Want to Go Into Trucking? 5 Things to Know Beforehand

The trucking industry is an essential part of our economy, and it requires hard-working individuals to keep it moving. If you’re considering getting into the trucking industry, congratulations! You’re taking your first step toward a rewarding career. However, there are some things that you should know before you dive headfirst into the trucking world. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top things you need to know before getting started in the trucking industry. Let’s get started!

Types of Trucking

There are a variety of different types of truck driving depending on the type of truck, whether it is local or long-haul, and the type of load carried.

According to Indeed:

Flat Bed Drivers earn an average of $60,049/yr. and carry equipment or other machinery that wouldn’t otherwise fit in a trailer.
Less-than-truckload (LTL) drivers handle smaller loads or shipments. They earn an average of $61,613/yr.
Refrigerated freight drivers, or reefer drivers, transport goods that require a specific temperature and earn $61,879/yr.
Over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers deliver larger amounts of goods in bigger trucks, including tractor-trailers and earn an average of $78,113/yr.
Tanker drivers transport gases or liquids, either long or short distances, may require special training and earn $88,918/yr.
Team drivers work with another driver to complete national or even cross-border hauls and earn an average of $105,789/yr.

Other variations include Intermodal Trucking which involves delivering containers that are simply dropped on a flat-bed truck. There is also Hot Shot trucking which involves hauling smaller, more time-sensitive loads within a specific timeframe, and usually to a single customer or location. You can be an “owner-operator” or work for a big or small company. There are also furniture movers, local delivery drivers, and hazardous material haulers, among others.

Your Schedule Can Be Inconsistent

One of the most significant things you need to consider before getting into trucking is the consistency of your schedule. Do you want to be home every night or do you enjoy seeing the country? Due to the nature of the job, if you are a long-haul trucker you’ll have to be away from home and on the road for extended periods. This means that your personal life will be put on hold for a while, and you need to be prepared for that. You will also have days where you might not be able to drive due to weather conditions, truck maintenance, or other unforeseen situations. So, you will need to be flexible and patient in handling these situations.

To be comfortable with an inconsistent schedule, it’s important to have a positive mindset and work on your time management skills. Make the most of the time you have at home by spending quality time with loved ones and taking care of personal responsibilities. Also, try to establish a routine or schedule for yourself while on the road to maintain some sense of consistency. It’s also helpful to have open communication with your family and friends about your schedule so they understand and can support you during busy periods. Remember, the inconsistent schedule is just a temporary sacrifice for a potentially fulfilling career in trucking.

You Need To Be Comfortable Spending Time Alone

Since you will be spending an abundance of time by yourself on the road, it’s essential to be comfortable being alone. This can be challenging for some people, especially if you’re used to being around your family, friends, or colleagues all the time. However, if you’re someone who enjoys solitude and independence, then truck driving might be the perfect job for you.

To combat loneliness and make the most of your alone time on the road, there are many things you can do. Some truck drivers enjoy listening to audiobooks or podcasts while driving, as it helps pass the time and keeps their mind engaged. Others use this time to learn a new skill or language through audio courses. You can also take breaks at rest stops to stretch your legs and socialize with other truck drivers. Additionally, some drivers bring along a pet for companionship or have a hobby like writing, drawing, or playing an instrument to keep them occupied during downtime. Find what works best for you and use this alone time as an opportunity for personal growth and development.

Note: If your spouse also has a CDL license you could be “team drivers” and earn very good money while spending time together seeing the country.

The Importance of Safety Can’t Be Overstated

Trucking is an inherently dangerous job, and the safety of yourself and others is of utmost importance. Therefore, it’s necessary to take appropriate safety measures like getting enough rest, wearing your seatbelt, and obeying traffic laws, among others. You’ll also have to pay extra attention to the weather and road conditions, especially during winter when it can be hazardous. Even the smallest error can be fatal, so being alert and cautious is vital in this industry.

As a truck driver, it’s important to continuously educate yourself about road safety. This can be done through various methods such as attending safety seminars or workshops, reading articles and books on the topic, and actively seeking advice from experienced drivers. It’s also crucial to stay updated with any changes in laws or regulations that may affect your driving practices.

Another great way to learn about road safety is by joining online forums or communities for truck drivers. These platforms allow you to connect with others in the industry and share valuable tips and information about staying safe on the road. Remember, knowledge is power, and investing time in learning about road safety can ultimately save lives.

The Type of Trucking Career You’ll Have

There are generally two types of trucking career paths, and they are Owner-Operators and Company Drivers. Owner-Operators own their trucks and work independently. They handle their pay, expenses, and all other aspects of their business. Company drivers, on the other hand, work for trucking companies, who provide them with a truck and handle maintenance, insurance, and other expenses. The type of career path you choose to follow will depend on your personal goals and preferences.

Do You Have the Required Licensing?

Before you can start driving a truck, you need to have the correct commercial driver’s license (CDL). Depending on the type of truck you’ll be driving and the weight of your load, you might need to obtain additional endorsements for hazardous materials, double or triple trailers, Overweight Permits, and others. Make sure you meet all the licensing requirements before embarking on a trucking career.

To obtain a CDL, you’ll need to pass a written knowledge test and a skills test in the state where you reside. You can prepare for these tests by studying the state’s commercial driver’s manual and taking practice tests. Additionally, there are many truck driving schools that offer training programs to help you obtain your CDL. These schools not only provide education but also help students with job placement after completion of the program.

Some trucking companies also offer their own training programs for new drivers. Ultimately, it’s essential to research and choose a reputable school or company that will provide you with the necessary training and support to obtain your CDL successfully.

The trucking industry can be an exciting and lucrative career path for those who love being on the road and value independence. However, before taking the leap into this industry, it’s essential to consider the points we’ve listed above to ensure you’re well-prepared for the job. If you’re comfortable with the idea of spending long hours on the road, willing to embrace the lifestyle changes, and committed to safety, then you’re well on your way to a successful trucking career. We hope that this article has provided you with enough information to make an informed decision about pursuing a career as a truck driver.

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