4 Quick Tips to be a Better Truck Driver
Do you want to become a better truck driver?
I can't imagine anyone who would answer, "no" to this question. We all do!
Well, the tips I'm about to share with you, I have learned throughout my 5 years in trucking. They've helped me get more miles, make more money and, really, just enjoy everything that comes along with being a truck driver that much more.
So, regardless of what phase you're in, (even if you haven't started your first trucking job yet) I know you'll find these tips valuable. Press PLAY and take a look...
WATCH: 4 Quick Tips to be a Better Truck Driver
1st Year in Trucking
Trucking has so many great things to offer, but the first year is going to be tough. There's just no way around it. The tips I shared in the video and have listed out below will help you get through the rough patches. You might not be able to change things you don't like about the company, but you can change you and how you react...
1. Are You Safe?
Safety is a big deal in trucking, and rightfully so. If you can remain without any accidents or violations it will go incredibly far in growing your career. Being a safe driver is critical for both you and the company you're driving for. This is why they spend so much time on it.
2. Do You Show Up On Time?
Listen, everybody makes mistakes. You may be late once or twice. But do you have a track record of falling behind time and time again? This is only going to hurt your chances to get load assignments. Being on time is a big deal and if you can show up on time, nearly all the time it will hlpe your reputation as a dependable trucker. And in trucking dependability is key.
Find a Trucking School Near You
Just like we helped Wayne get rolling, Driver Solutions can help you get the CDL training you need to become a truck driver. Just take a few moments to complete our online driver application now and we'll work to find a trucking school near you.
3. How Are You Managing Yourself in that Truck?
Do you drive what you can drive each day? Do you work to safely maximize the amount of miles you run? If you've got a tight load and you know it's going to be tight - are you driving that 600-650 miles in day? Not 500 when you really need to go 600.
4. How Are You Handling Problems?
If you have some type of problem, how are you handling it? How are you talking to your Driver Manager? Is it polite and courteous? The way you address situations that may not go your way says a great deal about your character. If you aren't getting the miles you want, are you politely asking what you can do to improve?
This is an area where I've had to do some work. I'm notorious for thinking I am right. I've had to tone it down before, remind myself that he or she is my boss. I simply asked, "what can I do to get miles back?"
Make Your Checklist
If things aren't going your way, make your little checklist of possible problems/solutions. Work your way through it. Odds are, if you're able to check things off one by one - you'll be able to get more out of your trucking career than ever before. I'm living proof of it.
About The Author
Wayne got his start in trucking by going through the Driver Solutions company sponsored CDL training program back in 2012. Since then, he has traveled over 300,000 safe miles and counting! After seeing his photos and reading about his adventures, we knew we had to share them on our blog. Join Wayne on his journey for a first hand look at life on the road!