Congratulations! You just earned your CDL and became a professional truck driver. Now that you’ve joined the ranks of America’s highway heroes, you’re probably excited. However, there will be a lot of challenges in your first year as a rookie.
PLAN FOR CHALLENGING SCHEDULES
Since drivers who have been driving for a company for years typically get first pick on assignments, that means the newbies get the leftovers. You’ll get the jobs in desolate places and big cities where making a delivery can be a challenge. Getting last pick also means getting the schedules no one else wanted that run during late hours.
AVOID ACCIDENTS
Safety should always be at the forefront of your mind when you are on the road. The number one rule when it comes to avoiding accidents is slow down. No matter the situation (rain, construction, heavy traffic, etc.) the best way to steer clear of potential accidents is by simply reducing your speed.
MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
It is easy to get carried away once you become a professional truck driver. While it might be tempting to start taking on high-mileage jobs with short turnaround, rookie truckers need to remember that they haven’t adapted to life on the road yet. It takes time to become a veteran truck driver.
BE READY FOR STRESS ON FAMILY
If you have a family and are considering becoming a truck driver, let them know what to expect and give them some say in your decision. Your job will affect both you and them. Being away from home for the majority of the year can be stressful on relationships and may test their strength past what you would want. When you come home, all you’ll want to do is rest in your spacious bed. For the sake of your family, don’t. Make your home time all about doing things with your family and close friends.
MASTER PARKING
As you gain experience in the trucking industry, you will quickly notice that parking can be a very frustrating experience. There are peak times during each season where truckers are known to fill up truck stop parking lots, making it very difficult to find a spot.
Aside from making your life easier, finding a parking spot early will allow you to start resting up for your next day on the road much sooner. Recovery is absolutely essential to safe and healthy truck driving.
You already know that trucking is as much a lifestyle choice as it is a career choice. As exciting as it is to take this step into a new career, it is important to be prepared for the unique challenges that beginning truckers face.
