Is Trucking Right For Me?

Hey everyone. Spent some time reading a lot of topics and considering joining a paid training program. The only thing stopping me is a job offer from "Jungle Trucks" here in Portland, OR where I'm guaranteed about $3100 a month net pay, but it's an Amazon package delivery position using a van/box truck. I've been on and off about getting a CDL for a year or so now. One side I'm hearing it's a great job, adventurous, fun, exciting, yet dangerous. On the other side I hear waste of time, not enough income, trucking future is nonexistent due to self operating semi trucks, too risky, etc.

I really need honest opinions. Should I get into it? I plan to eventually (year or two) get into school to become a software engineer as it was my #1 life goal since high school, but due to circumstances I have yet to begin, and I needed income so currently working at Amazon FC. Trucking was in the top 3 as well. I love to drive, I love to explore new states, and I'm okay with being gone from home for a while if it means good income and being able to afford a good home for my family.

What are your guy's tips and suggestions?

Thank you!

trucking future is nonexistent due to self operating semi trucks,

That is the least of your concerns.

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I'll let the more experienced drivers comment about your other questions.

I'd say no, you should not get into OTR trucking. If you can net $3100/month and be home every night with your family you should do that. OTR trucking takes a tremendous amount of commitment and it's far more demanding than anyone expects. You're looking for a job to help you get by until you can do what you really want to do. That's not the type of game plan that's going to lead to a good experience in OTR trucking. Trucking isn't something you dip your toe into or use as a very short term stepping stone to something better. It's just too demanding.

Welcome Denis.

If software engineering is your goal, then I'd suggest you focus on that instead of trucking. This is an industry where you need to be "all in". It literally takes a year or two just to become proficient at it. Having one foot out the door is a recipe for failure.

Take the local job until you are absolutely sure what you want to do going forward. Good luck.

Alright, I'll have to see how schooling goes in the future and if the CS career is really what I see myself doing. If not, then I'll be back here and starting up to get my CDL.

Thank you