Profile For Errol V.

NaeNae shares a secret:

However, the numbers on the back {of your TWIC card}, are also able to be used for the "trusted traveler" program when you fly

Same is true for a HAZMAT endorsement. You get to skip a lot of waiting and keep your shoes on by going through the PreCheck line.

Josh realizes:

it’s all been NO because of no recent tractor trailer experience

This is true. I have been teaching CDL for five years. I have asked about OTR with a few companies, and even my intimate knowledge of the regulations and truck driving and safety does not let me skip the "recent experience" requirement.

PS: If you want to try CDL instruction, let me know. (Email is in my profile.)

A TWIC card is used for access to seaports. Probably a HAZMAT endorsement on your license would be better. Hazardous transport can be from anywhere to anywhere, as opposed to just seaports. Cost is about the same.

Every trucking company is built on its drivers. Trucking is a very competitive business, driving a truck has little to do with what company you drive for (A Swift truck works the same as a Big M truck), so the "greener grass" over there is not such a big deal - even 1¢ per mile more. Larger companies will have more resources to keep the drivers "happy ". You have training from Melton that you would not get at a 6 truck size company.

As Mtn Gal asks, why do you want to break rules? The FMCSA regs are non-negotiable. If it's rules about ride-alongs and pets, smoking, etc., that may be a deal breaker for some, but the truck operation is pretty much set.

So three votes (so far) recommend staying with Melton.

Jeremiah, if you don't want to approve each and every respondent you need to open the form permissions, allowing anyone with the link to open it.

On your form, top left is "Settings"

Scroll down & open "Responses".

Turn off "Restrict to users of (your domain)".

For lazy people, a direct link you don't have to copy/paste:

Trucker Tech Tools

The "Why I Quit Prime" link is NOT Kearsey quitting Prime, especially after the company awards she recently earned.

The link goes to a video on Trucking Along With Kearsey where a newbie does quit Prime during her training because things just don't go her way (boo hoo).

Turtle speaks the truth:

Instead, focus on getting a feel for the trailer behind you. Once you begin to drive by the seat of your pants, it won't matter what truck you're in, where your seat is positioned, how your mirrors are turned, etc. You will just know where your trailer is, and where it needs to go.

However, a First-Time-In-The-Seat driver needs to start somewhere. When I teach truck backing, I do start with the good ol' Turn the wheel all the way to the left, back until you see the middle of the landing gear.... That gives the students a start in understanding how the trailer moves. That's how newbies can get the feel for the trailer, regardless of the seat and mirrors.

Now there's a real reason for that smile on your avatar.

If you are close to seeing the yellow line, but it's just a tiny bit behind the trailer, turn your mirrors in a little. Use the outside edge of the mirror to back, then reset the mirrors for driving.

Check into grocery brokers (McLane) or restaurant supply (Sysco, Gordon) These are mostly home-daily jobs. You make several stops and unload but it's not as stressful as dollar stores. Walmart has a good distribution system, too.