Starting a career as a big rig trucker can be both exciting and daunting. It requires a significant amount of skill and responsibility to operate a large commercial vehicle safely on the road. For those just starting out in this industry, here are five aspects of big rigging you should get used to.
Safety
The first tip for new big rig truckers is to focus on safety. Safety should be your top priority every time you get behind the wheel. This means following all traffic laws and regulations, including those specific to commercial vehicles. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions while driving, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.
One such law is the hours of service (HOS) regulation. This law mandates that drivers of commercial motor vehicles can only drive for a certain number of hours each day and week. For example, truckers are limited to 11 hours of driving time in a 14-hour window and are required to take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving. The HOS regulation is designed to prevent driver fatigue, which can lead to accidents.
Another safety law specific to commercial trucking in the USA is the requirement for regular vehicle inspections. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires trucking companies to perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on their vehicles to ensure they are in good working order. These inspections cover everything from brakes and steering to tires and lights. Regular vehicle inspections are essential to prevent accidents caused by equipment failure.
Time Management
Big rig truckers need to develop good time-management skills. Effective time management is critical when working as a big rig trucker, as you will need to balance driving time, rest breaks, and delivery schedules. Plan your routes in advance, be realistic about how long it will take to reach your destination, and factor in any unexpected delays that may occur.
Maintenance
Something that many big rig truckers forget about when starting out in their careers is to prioritize proper vehicle maintenance. Your big rig is your most important asset, and it is crucial that you keep it in good condition. Regular maintenance will not only help prevent breakdowns and costly repairs but also ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.
Organization
Remember: stay organized. Keeping your paperwork in order is essential in the trucking industry. You will need to keep track of your driving logs, delivery schedules, and other documentation. Invest in a good filing system and make sure that everything is easily accessible when you need it. Finding shipping work takes lots of discipline. Browse thousands of jf available jobs online to get a feel of how the industry works.
Patience
Fresh new big rig truckers must be patient and persistent. Starting out in any new career can be challenging, and the trucking industry is no exception. It may take time to build your experience and establish a reputation as a reliable and skilled driver. Be patient, stay focused, and keep working hard. With time and effort, you can achieve success in this exciting and rewarding field.