Keep A Journal And A Map

I'd like to strongly recommend that folks keep a journal or diary of the adventure of trucking. I went to school in my late 40's. For me, like many, this was not just a career change but the fulfillment of a childhood dream. That's when I bought my first modern phone too. One of the things I did right was to download an app for keeping a journal.

Another tactic, (learned from this site), is to use Google to recon every pick up and delivery. I'd save the address as I did my trip planning. On most runs I'd also map this out in my road atlas with a dry erase marker.

The third thing is a large (3'x4') laminated map of the United States with the interstates on it. When I came home every month or so I'd trace my trips on the large map with a sharpie.

So now I'm a local driver and don't have the adventure of travelling new roads every day. However, one of my most treasured trinkets is the map on my wall that shows all the roads I traveled in my 13 months of living like a Gypsy. I read through my old diary, look at the map and think back to my first time through Indianapolis. I planned so well but didn't know that I would be ejected from the company drop yard so I spent the night on the shoulder in a bad (to me) neighborhood curled up with a tire thumper. Or being assigned the mission of re-powering a load from another driver. His tractor broke down and I had to finish the delivery. He's a great guy and we've stayed in touch ever since. Oh, the good times...

So here's my advice/suggestion/recommendation. Keep a diary, make a map. When time fades the memories, the pictures will tell a fine story.

I've not kept a journal, but I do have every single steno notepad where I record all my trip information, and some day I'll compile that onto a map of everywhere I've been and seen

When I drove before, fuel tankers we had a list of deliveries that could only accommodate tank and trailer, and not a 51' like the one I drove. Because the area was too small and can't make the curve drop off area. I had to call in on a new account we got once, I tried it both from one direction then the other. I couldn't get to all the drop points so I had to have my load redistributed to have a tank and trailer style do the account and ALL Dispatchers were told not to send the drivers who had long trailers into that and several other stations, we all had on our dispatch boards.

But the idea of a journal might be helpful to all drivers, Rookie and even experienced drivers about a certain delivery spot that might have challenges that are not perceived by dispatch until the driver tells them that there is a challenge and what the challenge might be.

Good idea.

I really like the idea of a journal. Especially notes about routes, shippings and receivers.

Rob S., Great ideas for any driver whether a newbie or an experienced gear jammer. No one can possibly remember every little detail about a customer, bad neighborhood or which truckstop has what you are looking for. I used to keep an index card box and I would record directions, tidbits of info on crime, fuel diners and places to fuel and park. I also made notes inside my Truckers Atlas. Anyway you do it I feel that it is invaluable to do something along your thoughts.