Make 50k A Year In Trucking Vs Low Paying Independence?
Topic 8019 | Page 1
(Ex teacher speaking here)
TW, trucking isn't a "daily grind", it's a 24/7 grind. If you want independence at the price of dealing with dispatched loads and time constraints (yes, it's a contradiction), check out trucking.
Start here:
And for a good read:
Yes, I read Brett's informational book. Good read. The 24/7 grind is more realistic for truckers. Teaching was similar. (Lesson plans, meetings, grading, coaching, etc) Pay is too low though.
I hear from others that trucking is a lifestyle and can be a headache. Sometimes you are better off working two part-time jobs. Trucking is for the right person who likes the lifestyle, adventure and independence. I like that part. But living in a truck 24/7 with no sink, no shower, smelling like diesel all day, and sleeping in the truck...its kind of like camping.(exchange diesel for woodfire smoke) Sharing a cab with a young guy who is twice my age for a month? Its not appropriate.
DAC:
Drive-A-Check Report
A truck drivers DAC report will contain detailed information about their job history of the last 10 years as a CDL driver (as required by the DOT).
It may also contain your criminal history, drug test results, DOT infractions and accident history. The program is strictly voluntary from a company standpoint, but most of the medium-to-large carriers will participate.
Most trucking companies use DAC reports as part of their hiring and background check process. It is extremely important that drivers verify that the information contained in it is correct, and have it fixed if it's not.
TWIC:
Transportation Worker Identification Credential
Truck drivers who regularly pick up from or deliver to the shipping ports will often be required to carry a TWIC card.
Your TWIC is a tamper-resistant biometric card which acts as both your identification in secure areas, as well as an indicator of you having passed the necessary security clearance. TWIC cards are valid for five years. The issuance of TWIC cards is overseen by the Transportation Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security.
As a trucker you can shower on a daily basis
T.W., I've been monitoring your posts for awhile now. Man, you have the wrong impression of this industry without a doubt.
But living in a truck 24/7 with no sink, no shower, smelling like diesel all day, and sleeping in the truck...its kind of like camping.(exchange diesel for woodfire smoke) Sharing a cab with a young guy who is twice my age for a month? Its not appropriate.
True, there's no sink or shower in a sleeper cab. Just like many RVs. Showers are available at nearly every truck stop. The showers are probably kept cleaner than the ones at your country club. Use your loyalty card, the showers are free.
Most truckers work their food system so they don't need a sink. Shaving and tooth brushing mostly happen in the truck stop restrooms.
TW, nobody "smells like diesel". The only time you're near the stuff is during fueling. Many drivers wear gloves while handling the hoses. (I do).
Finally, if you have such a dim view of this business, then why are you here posting comments?
TWIC:
Transportation Worker Identification Credential
Truck drivers who regularly pick up from or deliver to the shipping ports will often be required to carry a TWIC card.
Your TWIC is a tamper-resistant biometric card which acts as both your identification in secure areas, as well as an indicator of you having passed the necessary security clearance. TWIC cards are valid for five years. The issuance of TWIC cards is overseen by the Transportation Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security.
HOS:
Hours Of Service
HOS refers to the logbook hours of service regulations.
Money alone is not going to make you happy. Since this job would make you miserable, stay home. We have enough miserable drivers out here already that hate their jobs and drive accordingly. Don't be another one of them. I had a job where I made 75-80k per year and I hated it. Finally the Manufacturer went bankrupt and that was the kick I needed to change careers. I make a lot less but am much happier.
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I work two independent part-time jobs( I am in control of my own schedule) after leaving teaching. It's really nice to not answer to anyone, no meetings, and can take any day off. I would love to start an online business---I tried 10 times and failed at every one of them. I do re-sell on eBay from time to time. The online market is saturated with competition.
I was thinking of getting on with US Express this summer. They offer good wages. The only part is I am not looking forward to the daily grind again. I like trucking part-time just not full-time. Staring at the highway and holding a steering wheel for long periods would bore me to death.
Anyone come to a crossroads where they place higher wages above a flexible, independent lifestyle?
I am giving up freedom to chase that carrot OTR.
OTR:
Over The Road
OTR driving normally means you'll be hauling freight to various customers throughout your company's hauling region. It often entails being gone from home for two to three weeks at a time.