Posted: 9 years, 1 month ago
View Topic:
I messed up could use some advice
I can't see this being a huge detriment to your driving career. Most companies know that a student is going to make minor mistakes, it just comes with the territory. I ran over a car my first week out in a big truck and Schneider National didn't fire me. (but that was 20 years ago) If this company is going to let you go this quickly, then maybe you should look for another.
Posted: 9 years, 7 months ago
View Topic:
What if I just avoid scales altogether? I haul dry bulk.
Bad idea! I've been driving 20 years and I can't say that I have never gone around a scale, but I don't recommend it. If you get caught, things can get really bad for you.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
I've been driving LTL for 8 years now, so my first choice is one of the LTL carriers. Problem is that most LTL carriers make you drive "casual" "part-time" "as needed". Basically, babysit a telephone for hours or even days on end, waiting for them to need you. If you can get in the door, MOST of them are, not perfect, but pretty good places to work. (Especially if you get into one of the regional carriers) Best of luck.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
Tomorrow's my first day ...and I'm sick as a dog
Thanks Jolie and Joanna. I have to be up at 4:00 am and be there by 6:00. My tail is whupped. I know tomorrow and Tuesday we're just watching company videos. I doubt they'll have us get behind the wheel. That would be where I'd draw the line and say, "No, not today." Insert all the swear words you can think of right here. I'm throwing furniture and breaking dishes in my mind. LOL.
-mountain girl
If it's just classroom stuff, the hardest thing will be to just stay awake. Best of luck to you though. I'm sure you will do just fine.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
What am i supposed to do with my car?
Many companies have secure parking at terminals or satellite yards for drivers' personal vehicles. You may need to get a parking permit from the company to hang on the rearview mirror to identify it as belonging there, but they shouldn't charge for it. One thing to keep in mind, though. Depending on how long you stay out, your car's battery might get a little run down and flat. You might want to consider investing in one of those portable jumpstart boxes, just in case.
This has been a dilemma for me for 20 years. I'd say it's about 50/50 if a company offers secure parking. My current company does not but I'm home every day now so it is not a big problem.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
Love the views out west, but sad to say after 12 years OTR and the last 8 LTL, I have never been out west. Love the photos and the stories, even a rookie has something to tell. Keep posting.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
LTL Thread ...for inquiring minds
Great writing. I drive for a regional LTL carrier and our "meet and greet" we call a relay. Just two drivers coming from different terminals meeting somewhere in the middle to swap trailers. This keeps the freight moving and allows me to drive 550 - 600 miles and still get home everyday. Great post. Look forward to the rest.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
Trucking Truth has got to be the best site for truckers that I've seen. And I've seen many.
The variety of expertise and experience levels, the help and advice that everyone is willing to give, and the training and informative materials that are available are second to none. Thanks to Brett for putting together a site for truckers that is actually worth visiting on a daily basis. I plan on alot more posts and alot more visits.
On another note....its official. I start CDL school on October 20th and if all goes as planned I will graduate on January 5th 2015. Been a loooooong time comin.
Good luck Jimbo. Enjoy the ride and the experience.
Posted: 9 years, 8 months ago
View Topic:
$230 a week? Is that possible?
If this is the trend for Roehl, then many of those drivers will not be there for long.
Posted: 9 years, 1 month ago
View Topic:
Shifting
I have been driving for 20 years. I drive an automatic truck now and I don't care for it at all. The only advantage for me is not having to shift when pulling out of a truck stop with a cup of coffee. I do think more and more carriers will go to automatics but I don't think it will be the great advantage they are hoping for.