Rub Rail Truck Ladders Rotating Header Image

Log Book, Schmog Book – Truckers and Hours of Service

Sep 21st, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Suzanne Roquemore

Every truck driver knows what a log book is. It's a grid-style graph they use to keep track of the hours spent driving, working, off duty and in the sleeper birth. It is lovingly referred to as the comic book, funny pages, or cheat sheet.

The rules are confusing. They changed near the end of 2005 and the powers that be in Washington (none of whom, I'm sure have ever driven an 18-wheeler) haven't decided if these changes are the final draft. We used to be able to drive 10 hours before needing an 8 hour break. Now we can drive 11 hours (not straight, of course) but must take a 10 hour break.

To be quite honest, I don't know all the details of the new rules, but I'm sure if I'm ever involved in a trucking accident, the lawyers will fill me in.

Back when the original rules were first made law, trucking was nothing like it is today. Today, the over-the-road trucks have sleepers that are more like rolling studio apartments than the coffin sleepers from back in the 60s and 70s. Back then, a driver was liable to sleep on a board propped between the driver and passenger seats. The roads were nothing like the super highways we have today. Today, we have satellite radio to pass the time, air ride cabs and air ride seats. We can stop in at the mini-mall truck stop and get a decent shower and a meal. But the big change in the log book rules was 1 extra hour we are allowed to drive, followed by 2 extra hours we have to sit around and twiddle our thumbs.

You have to realize, my commute from "home" to "work" is about 2 feet. I can drive in sweat pants and an undershirt if I want to. I don't have all the distractions that a normal job may entail. To be honest, most truckers want to get down the road, get it over with and get home. But they are often forced into a situation where they either have to park for a 10-hour break when they are only a few hours from home or lie on their log books.

I personally think log books have nothing to do with safety. They are useful in theory, but, ultimately, you just can't legislate sleep. Ultimately, safe drivers will pull over when they are tired and unsafe drivers won't- no matter what their log books say. Ultimately, common sense can't be gleaned from a sheet of carbon and 2 sheets of paper.

I have been in a number of situations where my log book said I had plenty of hours, but I was just dead tired. I have been in other situations where I felt well-rested and wanted to get down the road but my log book said I had to stop for a few more hours. My most recent struggle is the 14-hour rule. Once I start work for the day, I have to stop 14 hours later unless there is a 10-hour break in there somewhere. So, If I drive for 5 hours, take a nap for 4 hours, eat dinner and get a shower, I only have 3 hours driving time left on the 14-hour clock. So, maybe the rule-makers don't want me to take a nap.

I have made a 15-minute mistake on my log and been treated like I just drove over the DOT officer's favorite niece. 15-minutes. I drive safe. I refuse to drive tired. I treat the motoring public like friends- even if they drive without sense. But if there is a mistake in my log, I am a some sort of criminal.

Long haul trucking is a hard job. The lifestyle is rough on the driver. There are good drivers and there are bad drivers, and not one driver will tell you that the log book makes the difference.

CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines.

For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Roquemore

Suzanne Roquemore - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Rules.
Tagged: · ·

Locating Semi Trucks For Sale

Sep 20th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Marilee McCormack

Whether they're manufacturers lauding the ease of purchasing a new truck online from their web site or fellow truckers attempting to give you a great deal on a semi truck they own, semi trucks for sale can be found almost anywhere. Truckers that are looking to leave the world of employee and enter the world of owner/operator can start looking for semi-trucks in their own back yard, but can continue seeking out the perfect truck for themselves all over the world.

From Peterbilt to Kenworth to International and other brands, semi trucks for sale can easily be found locally. All truckers need to do is scan local advertisements, classified papers, and truck stops for by-owner semi trucks for sale. Although buying locally may be faster, truckers who scan semi trucks for sale in their own areas often don't find the perfect truck for them. Because a semi truck is an investment of mountainous proportion, truckers should be sure that the truck they find is not only an acceptable one, but also that it is the perfect truck for their business.

In order to do this, truckers must view a wider selection of trucks, moving outside those locally advertised trucks. A perfect way to do this is to consult semi trucks for sale on the Internet. Two major locations to find semi trucks for sale on the Internet are the manufacturer's web site and classified truck web sites. The first option is a great place for those who seek new trucks for sale. If truckers want to purchase new semi trucks for sale, buying from the manufacturer has several advantages. First and foremost are the options for customization and warranties. New semi trucks for sale from the manufacturer can be customized to the owner operator or fleet in addition to being offered with impressive warranties.

Truckers who are seeking used semi trucks for sale, however, can search semi truck classifieds. These classifieds, found on the Internet, allow truckers to find the perfect used semi truck for sale at a fraction of the cost of new trucks. Because most truckers buying a semi truck for the first time want a great deal rather than a fully loaded vehicle, buying used semi trucks from a classified web site is an option that allows truckers to find a great deal without sacrificing quality.

While semi trucks for sale can be found anywhere, truckers looking for semi trucks for sale can increase the probability of finding the perfect truck by searching the Internet.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Sell Trucks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: Business Side of Trucking.
Tagged: · ·

Where Not to Finance Your Semi Truck

Sep 19th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Marilee McCormack

Just a quick search of Yahoo, Google, or MSN can provide truckers with thousands of lenders who are willing to finance most semi-trucks. In the same search, you can find many articles about how and where to finance that truck, but you might not find a great deal of information about where you should avoid when you're looking for a loan company.

Buying a new semi-truck, whether new or used, is both an exciting and nerve wracking for seasoned and new truckers. Because of the emotion and stress involved in the process, you might be ready to jump at the first company who pledges to support your business, but there are still some lenders that you should avoid. Many truckers with many different kinds of businesses and vehicles exist, so these companies might occasionally satisfy the needs of some truckers. But truckers should at least consider them carefully, bearing in mind that they might not be the best decision.

1. The physical office of a loan provider who also has an online business

Although many people, especially those who are on the road for much of their lives, enjoy taking care of their business online, some think they can get better deals by showing up at the store in person. Because Internet providers have a much lower overhead than companies who have storefronts, they can usually offer better deals. Even if you're going to go with a large, corporate finance, you can probably get a better deal online because the company spends less money on signing you up online than signing up a customer in the store.

2. A loan company that offers high interest rates

If you have a low credit score, or a history of poor credit decisions, then you might be excited that you can get financing at all, but high interest rate loans can leave you still paying on a truck that has broken down or been sold years ago. High interest rates mean you ultimately pay more for the cost of a loan, and this not only harms your own financial portfolio, but it can also be a poor business decision. In addition, loans that have high interest rates may also have other stipulations that make them difficult to deal with. For instance, certain penalties for paying late or missing payments can cause real financial distress.

3. An institution with which you have a bad relationship

The institution that you choose for your loan can be just as important as its interest rate or whether or not the company can be accessed online. Whether you're going through a traditional bank, a company that you've used in the past, or a company that you have used in some other capacity, make sure you consider your previous interactions with this company. Negative issues between you and this institution can affect your interest rate, or if you're approved for a truck loan at all. Also, if you haven't been happy with the company in the past, odds are you won't be happy in the future, even if it is offering you instant approval.

Although some truckers may find that using these methods and institutions can benefit their businesses, these institutions are generally the ones to avoid.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks For Sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: Business Side of Trucking.
Tagged: · ·

Semi Truck Leases Vs Loans – Which is Best For You

Sep 18th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Marilee McCormack

After you've decided to finance a semi truck, you're usually provided with two options. You can take out a lease on the truck or you can take out a loan. While the programs are similar, key differences can make the options excellent for one trucker while they are not so perfect for another. Understanding the differences between leasing and loaning a commercial vehicle can help you make your final decision once you're ready to start a new phase of your career.

The easiest way to think about leasing is like renting. When you rent an apartment, you do not own it, but have the right to use it as you see fit, with some restrictions, until your lease is up. When you are renting an apartment, you are not responsible for most repairs, unless they are a result of your misuse. Instead, the landlord takes care of broken appliances, construction error, etc.

In the same way, truckers who lease semi trucks do not actually own the truck, but make payments on a lease schedule much the same way they would pay rent. These schedules are commonly 36 to 60 months but can vary with the lease provider. The leasing company purchases the truck from its dealer of manufacturer and allows the trucker to use the vehicle. At the end of the lease, truckers have an option to purchase the truck for the residual value rather than returning it. The residual value is a predetermined rate decided upon lease provider and trucker, and is included in the original paperwork. Truckers can think of this as similar to a rent to own situation in housing.

Loaning is similar to leasing in that truckers make payments over a period of time, but these payments go to the actual value of the truck in addition to the cost of the loan. At the end of the loan period, truckers who have made all of the payments and maintained the loan agreement own the truck.

Both leasing and loaning have benefits that make them better options for some types of businesses. Leasing can be a good option for truckers who want a lower monthly payment, no down payment, the option of upgrading, and the chance to avoid debt. By leasing, a trucker or company pays less than required with a loan because the trucker is not actually covering the cost of the vehicle. In addition, by leasing one vehicle after another, truckers can upgrade frequently. Finally, leases are not considered debt by all companies as failure to pay would result in a simple repossession of the vehicle.

A negative side to leasing also exists, however. Truckers who lease their vehicles and purchase them at the end of the contract often pay more than if they had just taken out a loan on the truck in the first place. Depending on the lease provider and company, truckers may have to purchase extra insurance on the leased vehicles and may not be able to modify or upgrade their trucks. Finally, just like renting an apartment instead of buying a house, truckers who lease are not making an investment, but are simply borrowing equipment.

Because of this, the advantages of taking out a loan on a truck have to do with the fact that, once the contract is up, the trucker actually owns the truck. This allows the trucker to use the truck to his or her specifications. It also often means lower insurance payments and tax write-offs. Owning a truck, however, also means higher monthly payments and the commitment to a truck that may be hard to unload should you need to trade in the future.

For most Americans, buying a truck with cash is out of the question. Truckers who want to jump start or upgrade their business, however, have the chance to do so through obtaining a loan or a lease. Understanding the differences between the two financing programs can help truckers determine what is best for themselves and their businesses.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks For Sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: Business Side of Trucking.
Tagged: · ·

What Type of Trucking Insurance Do You Need?

Sep 17th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

 Marilee McCormack

Whether you've been in the trucking industry for years or are entering it for the first time, insurance is something you've probably thought about quite a bit. But understanding the different types of trucking is insurance is difficult, even for the most seasoned trucker. Once you understand the different kinds of insurance that truckers usually buy, consider, or are concerned about can help you better customize your insurance package.

1. Primary Liability Insurance

Primary liability insurance is the type of insurance needed for a driver in the United States to stay legal while on the road. Drivers with these types of policies have coverage for others' injuries and damage to others' vehicles as a result of an accident. For truck drivers to drive legally, they must have $750,000 worth of coverage. This means that their insurance will cover up to $750,000 of damage or injury to the other party in an accident. If the accident is determined to be your fault, and more than this amount of damage is caused, then the injured party's lawyers may seek further compensation from your personal wages and savings. For this reason, some truckers choose to purchase more than the minimum primary liability insurance. Truckers can also purchase greater degrees of liability insurance that will pay for the damages that occur to a trucker's own rig, in addition to the truckers' injuries in the event of an accident.

2. General Liability Insurance

Accidents don't just happen when truckers are on the highway. Truckers spend a great deal of time parked in truck stop lots, waiting in rest stops, or loading and unloading. While truckers are either in or away from their rigs, accidents can occur involving another vehicle and your parked vehicle. In addition, thefts and vandalism are also possible. Truckers who want insurance to cover damages in these conditions should consider general liability insurance, which covers the vehicle in conditions other than on-the-road driving. Different insurance companies offer different types of general liability insurance that cover truckers during different conditions. Truckers who are interested in this type of insurance should consult with different insurance companies to view their options.

3. Motor Truck Cargo Insurance

This type of insurance does not cover your vehicle, but instead the cargo that you're carrying. This offers both the transportation company and the client the assurance that the items will get to where they need to be, or their loss will be compensated. If you are an owner operator, your company may require that you carry this type of insurance, to a specific amount.

4. Non-Trucking Liability Insurance

Also called bobtail or deadhead insurance, this type of insurance covers your vehicle when you're not working. Typically, the company that you're working for covers your vehicle when you're on the job, but if the truck is parked in your driveway, getting it repaired, or otherwise not working. You might want to pick up this insurance to protect your investment in all circumstances.

5. Legal Requirements

Like any other job, truckers are not only tasked with meeting the requirements of their employers, but also they are required to meet legal requirements in order to stay on the road. Because driving can be a hazardous activity that causes death, injury, and damage, motorists must meet speed limits, safety equipment standards, and registration requirements. Like these legal conditions, insurance is mandated by all 50 states. This requirement is not devised simply to charge truckers more money. Instead, it is a way of protecting drivers who are involved in an accident that is not their fault. In addition, it also protects the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident by protecting personal property and funds from going to pay for accident damages.

But how can you find out what kinds of insurance requirements are necessary for your type of commercial vehicle, and if you're a fleet or company owner, how do you ensure that each of your drivers is properly insured?

Many private insurance companies contain information regarding what types of insurance truckers need to stay legal. For instance, the National Independent Truckers web site lists the insurance regulations needed for truckers to obtain ICC/ MC Authority. The requirements are separated into the following weight classes: "Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 10,000 pounds or more", and "Vehicles whose GVWR is less than 10,000 pounds"

Truckers need to meet these requirements, as ICC/MC Authority is necessary for any commercial vehicle. While truckers can certainly used the National Independent Truckers web site for research purposes, truckers can also visit more official sites to confirm the insurance requirements necessary. Regulations.gov, a government web site, allows truckers to find all sorts of federal regulations having to do with the transportation industry. Because government regulations can be difficult to understand, and insurance companies can stretch the truth in order to get your business, you can also call your local DOT and BMV representatives in order to ask questions.

When searching for legal requirements online, just remember that different types of vehicles require different types of truck insurance. Make sure you're getting the right type for all your needs, including weight, your cargo, and your company.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks For Sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: OTR Trucking.
Tagged: · ·

How to Pick a Truck Leasing Company

Sep 16th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Marilee McCormack

As a trucker, you're a very busy person. Not only are you on the road, busy with transportation for your business, but you're also loaded down with paperwork for both personal and professional matters. If you've ever worked as an employee for a trucking company, you know what it's like to have someone else take care of the ins and outs of your business, someone to handle the maintenance and processing of other paperwork, someone to take care of the business aspect of trucking so you could concentrate on the road. While owning your own trucking business may be better than working as an employee because of the freedom and income it allows you, it's also more work.

That's why finding the perfect company to lease you your next truck is so important. Some leasing companies go out of the way to earn the trust and respect of their customers. These companies arrange for maintenance and repairs, often file the associated paperwork, take care of government DOT inspections, and arrange for the truck to be washed on a regular basis. Lease providers can also be beneficial by offering fuel cards that allow business owners to track their expenses.

Lease companies can do this because they are the truck's owners. They want to make sure that their investment stays in good condition. As a trucker, however, you benefit from this investment because you don't have to be responsible for or keep track of these types of business transactions, although insuring that the lease companies adequately take care of these issues is important in case of liability or other legal problems.

Even before you get on the road with a leasing company, they can help you through the process of finding the right vehicle. Many lease companies have officials who are trained to help you find the right commercial vehicle at a price that you can afford.

Monthly payments, interest rates, and the stability of the company are all important factors to check before deciding on a company to lease your truck, but convenience is another important characteristic. If you get a great interest rate, but have to stay on the phone for over an hour each day to correct some problem your lease company made, then it probably won't be worth the slightly lower rate. When choosing a lease company, can focus not only on the numbers, but also on the attitude and the service. Lease companies that go a step above in trying to satisfy the customer keep you free to deal with challenges as a new business owner. They also make life easier on you when you need verification of your fuel or maintenance expenses. Although money might be the bottom line, checking out your lease company's amenities is important before you sign that paper.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks For Sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: OTR Trucking.
Tagged: · ·

Expeditor – Hot Shot Trucks

Sep 15th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Marilee McCormack

Expeditor or hot shot trucks are typically those used for delivering freight which is time sensitive. Hot shot freight is also often referred to as red-hot or shut-down cargo. There are many industries that use these services and the products that are typically transported range considerably in both size and structure. Hauling this way can be a very demanding job. There are typically no breaks between the pick-up and delivery of the load. Hot shot driving is typically of an emergency nature and does not conform to regular scheduling.

Expeditor-hot shot trucks are very readily available if you are searching for this type of work. These trucks are normally driven by owner/operators and are often leased by carriers. The drivers and/or owners are considered by the IRS to be independent contractors who operate their own business and simply lease their equipment to the expediting company. Some examples of the freight carried include automotive plant shipments which eliminate the need to inventory production parts, medical equipment delivered on an emergency basis and other cargo that is time-sensitive or otherwise considered critical.

The difference between expeditor-hot shot trucks and typical trucks is that conventional trucking normally involves scheduled shipments that are delivered on a regular basis. These deliveries often contain multiple stops and the freight is not considered to be time-critical. Expediting can range in size from one envelope to a complete trailer full of parts. Of course larger trucks will be used for hauling larger items and a wide selection of expeditor-hot shot trucks can be found online within many website listings.

If you are planning to get into the hot shot business, you should consider purchasing a used truck. Used expeditor-hot shot trucks can be found plentifully and can typically save you thousands of dollars over purchasing them new. Used trucks can be very efficient and cost-worthy as long as you know how and where to purchase them. It is recommended that you spend just a little time researching the many manufacturers and models before you begin an actual purchase. Once you have all the information about the used vehicle that you need, you can make an informed decision about whether or not this truck is right for you. Information that you should strive to collect includes price, condition, year/make/model, contact information for the seller and any other information that will help you to decide on your purchase.

Marilee McCormack is the managing editor for Truckertotrucker.com which specializes in Trucks Sales. In addition to editing, Trucking SEO and Website Marketing Services are offered.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Posted in: OTR Trucking.
Tagged: ·

How to Become a Truck Driving Instructor

Sep 14th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Kathy Mercado

These days the need for qualified drivers is increasing in the trucking industry. This also means that the need for good truck driving instructors has also increased. Teaching the rules of truck driving to new drivers is a complicated job, so for these jobs you need well-experienced and qualified instructors. As a truck driving instructor you will get a chance to share your driving experience and knowledge with other people.

In addition, you also need to have the ability to share your knowledge regarding truck safety and road safety. Following are a few points that will guide you how to become an instructor.

Firstly, you need to have copy of your driving record which you would obtain from your state DMV bureau. You need to check the driving record for any incidents or accidents within the previous two years.

Next, you need to prepare at least ten years of your work history. In addition, if you did not have a job during a period of time, then you also need to include this information in your application. The commercial driving application requires ten years of history, having no time gaps.  

Next, you need to pass a pre-screen physical and drug test. Most of the employers need this information once your driving application gets approved.   

After you pass the needed tests, then you need to pass the driving test with an instructor. Your ability of instructing other people will depend on your ability of driving the trailer. You need to prove that you have the capability of performing well on the road. The driving test includes four-point brake testing and operating your trailer in a safe manner around other vehicles.

Finally, review the latest driver regulations and laws existing in commercial truck industry. The trucking industry and the government are always making attempts to improve safety amongst the drivers and the public. Regulations for drivers always change, therefore as a commercial trucking instructor you need to know all these changes. 

All the above mentioned points will help you when teaching to new truck drivers. 

For more information, visit passfaster.org. They offer information on driving lessons liverpool, as well as find a driving school liverpool.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Mercado

Posted in: Truck Driver Training.
Tagged: ·

Becoming A Truck Driver – How I Got Started

Sep 13th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Brett Aquila

How It All Started

I was 21 years old and working at a warehouse outside of Atlanta, GA. I'm originally from Buffalo, NY where I now reside 14 years later. But when we were 19, a couple of buddies of mine and I jumped in an old van and drove from Buffalo, NY to Atlanta, GA on a wing and a prayer. We were all about the adventure. Actually, I was all about the adventure and LOVED dragging others into my adventures with me so off we went!

After a couple of really fun years my one buddy and I found ourselves working for $5.50 an hour in a warehouse. We worked a ton of hours and enjoyed it. The people we worked with were great and we partied a lot! We damn sure weren't getting rich, but we were getting by.

One day we got to work and saw a large six wheel rental truck sitting in the parking lot. I asked the boss what was up. He said we had some pallets we had to run into downtown Atlanta (about 10 or 15 miles maybe) and pick up some others and bring em back.

Well, I had never even seen the inside of one of those trucks, let alone drive one. I knew they were automatics and figured I could drive it easy enough. I eagerly volunteered for the task. My boss asked with a skeptical look, "have you ever driven a truck like that before?" and like any responsible adult looking for an opportunity to try something new I lied my brains out!!!!! I said' "Oh yeah! My aunt moved twice and my grandma moved once and all three times we needed a truck that size and I drove it." He continued with that skeptical look and said he'd talk to the other boss and let me know.

Well, I bugged him repeatedly for the next hour or two and to my absolute delight they said I could do it! I was freakin! This was gonna be a blast! At least I had hoped so. Hell, I had never done it before but what the hell... it'll be fun I'm sure! So we loaded up the truck and off I went.

It handled like a big pickup truck. Nothing to it. So I cruised down into the city, found my destination, and made the delivery. Well, before they could reload me it was their lunchtime. So I wandered the city for about 45 minutes, came back, they reloaded me, and off I went back to the warehouse.

By the time I got back there it was almost time to go home for the day. I laughed about it and told my buddy, "Wow, I really got away with one. I didn't even have to do any work today. All I had to do was drive!", and IMMEDIATELY the light turned on in my head. What about becoming a truck driver????

I had no experience with it and knew nothing about it. I also didn't know any truck drivers so I went home that day and called the only trucking company I knew the name of off the top of my head. I asked, "how much do you make your first year as a truck driver?", and they said about $35,000. THIRTY FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS! MY GOD I'D BE RICH AND WOULDN'T HAVE TO WORK! (I was young and getting by on about one third of that at the time remember... those were good times.

In fact we were so happy when we were told we'd be making $5.50 an hour that we did a ridiculous dance the moment the boss left.... a dance that came to be know from then on as the 550 dance!).

So I immediately called a private truck driving school and made an appointment. My ma said she would pay for the schooling for me (I gave her a combination of a good sales pitch and guilt) and within a month I was in school... the start of my odyssey.

Now why did I pick a private trucking school? Well, that was kinda lucky really. There are private schools and then there are trucking companies that have their own schools. I didn't even know that there WERE trucking companies that had their own schools!

Brett R. Aquila is a 15-year veteran of America's highways, logging over 1.5 million safe miles. He is trying to help Newbie truck drivers to be successful in their trade, through a dose of reality. Please visit Becoming A Truck Driver for more information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_Aquila

Brett Aquila - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Trucking Life.
Tagged: ·

Truck Driving School – Let Your CDL Training Begin – Part II

Sep 12th, 2010
by Guest Writer.
No comments yet

Brett Aquila

Now if you've chosen a private truck driving school, which is the road I chose, you won't have nearly the bologna to deal with. The schools are independent of all trucking companies and they've already gotten your money so there's no reason to push any sort of self serving agenda.

They have no reason to BS you. What they DO need to do is give you the very best experience they can while you attend their school and give you the best chance they can give you at being successful once you've graduated. Their entire future is based upon their reputation. Word of mouth from former students and recommendations from the trucking companies they send students to are the key to their future survival.

If you don't like your experience and the students coming out of the school aren't satisfactory to the companies they go to work for then the school is going to die a long, slow death. Nobody will want to attend. So they will get straight to work filling you with information.... and tons of it.

No matter which type of school you decide upon the first week or two will be similar... classwork. Videos, slide shows, workbooks, charts, and a few written tests sprinkled in here and there. To be honest the work is really pretty easy. But be aware... they are going to completely and totally overwhelm you with the sheer quantity of information... and they know it.

Becoming a good truck driver, especially over the road or regional, requires far more knowledge than most people outside the industry would ever begin to imagine. Every state has its own set of rules, regulations, and procedures. Go from New York to Los Angeles and you will cross through about a dozen states. That's a dozen different sets of rules.

Some rules will be common to each state but each state will have some unique rules you must be familiar with. Now don't let this scare you... everybody has learned to deal with it and you will too.

The learning curve is really steep in the beginning. The schools have to give you all the information they can because if you get out there and make a mistake your company may call the school and say,"didn't you teach this?" The school can usually say they gave you the information but you must not have used it. That's the schools job... to give you the information. It's your job to learn it and use it. Again, please don't let this scare you. It's intimidating at first, but you'll learn as you go. Everybody goes through this steep learning curve in the beginning and you will too.

So you'll spend a week or so in the classroom and generally the next couple of weeks will be a combination of classroom time and learning to back up the truck through a variety of different obstacles. Now if you're like me you may have never even been in a big rig until now... and let me tell ya it's really, really fun.. especially at a private school.

Private trucking schools will take their time and won't pressure you. Remember, they want you to enjoy your learning experience so you will recommend their school to others. Trucking companies are hit and miss... some of them may push you and pressure you to keep their agenda alive... it's YOUR privilege to be working there so you BETTER perform. Now not all of them will treat you this way. A lot it will depend on the individual instructors.

But a lot of the instructors at the trucking companies have worked for these companies for many, many years and so feel like they're the king and you better revere them. It's just like anything else.... some people let a tiny bit of authority and experience go straight to their heads.

Brett R. Aquila is a 15-year veteran of America's highways, logging over 1.5 million safe miles. He is trying to help Newbie truck drivers to be successful in their trade, through a dose of reality. Please visit Truck Driving Schools for more information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_Aquila

Brett Aquila - EzineArticles Expert Author

Posted in: Truck Driver Training.
Tagged: ·

← Earlier Posts
Newer Posts →
Blog WebMastered by All in One Webmaster.