Backing Deliveries

So If everything goes right I should be attending road master this Saturday. The only thing I'm concerned about is backing up. Like during training we'll mostly be using cones. But I'm just nervous about going solo and trying figure out how to backup in a tight or weird area

That's pretty normal I'm guessing since it seems most experienced drivers here said they were too. I was fortunate that both my trainers gave me lots of practice while out on the road with them. Also with good direction. I found that my instructors at school were more than happy to help if I asked rather than making a mess of backing trying to figure it out alone. I can certainly relate to how you feel. Last night at the end of my first solo day there was one spot left at the truckstop. Small lot with not much room. Nervous? A little. I first reminded myself three things. Go slow. Don't let the guy behind me rush me. And GOAL. I did fine. A few pull-ups and one guy let me know I was clear on my right. Another truck pulled in from the other side of the bulding and waited patiently in front of me while I set-up and GOALed. Then he gave me a thumbs up after I was done. Most of the time I see helpful and patient truckers out here. Dont worry about all that now, that's several weeks down the road. Take it day by day.

Everyone finds backing (and parallel parking) to be the most "scariest part" of training.

Keep in mind that, going to Roadmaster - you aren't going to be "going solo" for awhile anyways. ANY COMPANY you end up with, as a "recent grad", is going to have a period of additional road training with a "mentor" (trainer, or whatever the particular company happens to call them).

Roadmaster will teach you enough to get your CDL. Your company will do your finishing training "on the road".

No one is going to put you out solo, with $200K+ of Tractor/Trailer/Goods - without some more training.

Keep calm, be patient - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE.

Rick

I've been practicing on American trucking (keyboard) since I don't have a steering wheel attachment. What kind of helped me was reminding myself if I want the trailer to go a certain way turn my wheel the opposite direction. But I know a game is different than real life haha. But I'm excited to start the journey

Bryan,...try not to worry too much about backing. It's a skill that takes many months of practice and repetition in order to become adequate. Proficiency, depending on the job type, even longer to achieve.

You'll learn as you go and as Rick stated, "Roadmasters will teach you the basics". Your road-trainer should take you beyond that point. They'll do their job, the rest is up to you...

Good luck.

I graduated from Road Masters in NC which are you attending. For the most part you back everyday after class room portion except when you drive all day

So If everything goes right I should be attending road master this Saturday. The only thing I'm concerned about is backing up. Like during training we'll mostly be using cones. But I'm just nervous about going solo and trying figure out how to backup in a tight or weird area

I'm going to the one in Dunn Nc :D

I graduated from Road Masters in NC which are you attending. For the most part you back everyday after class room portion except when you drive all day

So If everything goes right I should be attending road master this Saturday. The only thing I'm concerned about is backing up. Like during training we'll mostly be using cones. But I'm just nervous about going solo and trying figure out how to backup in a tight or weird area

Yup thats where I graduated from all the instructors are good for the most part Jason, Mr. Tut, and Mr. Pratt really helped me out alot. Most of the instructors have close to 20 yrs. Experience. You'll be fine.

I'm going to the one in Dunn Nc :D

I graduated from Road Masters in NC which are you attending. For the most part you back everyday after class room portion except when you drive all day

So If everything goes right I should be attending road master this Saturday. The only thing I'm concerned about is backing up. Like during training we'll mostly be using cones. But I'm just nervous about going solo and trying figure out how to backup in a tight or weird area