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New to the world of truck driving? There has been an influx of new truck drivers in the last few years to address the shortage, and there are many benefits to this type of work. If you enjoy spending time on the road, truck driving is a great career that can offer job security, flexibility, and the ability to make good money if you put the work in. It is also a great way to travel and avoid the restrictions of a typical 9-5 job. This article will offer a few tips so that you are able to make the most out of your new career.
Be A Confident Driver
First, you need to become a confident truck driver. Driving a truck is different from driving a regular car, so you may want to practice and look into courses that could sharpen your skills. Confidence is important when it comes to truck driving. Still, you also need to practice defensive driving by maintaining a safe distance, anticipating the actions of others, and singling well in advance of turning.
Be Friendly Yet Professional
It is true that a lot of the job involves working independently, and this is a perk for many, but there are moments when you will need to communicate, and it is important that you are friendly yet professional. You want to develop a positive reputation as a truck driver, so you need to have strong communication skills and build relationships with dispatchers and customers.
Look After Your Physical & Mental Health
When you spend a lot of time on the road and away from home, both your physical and mental health can suffer. Therefore, it is important that you make your health and well-being a priority. A few basic tips for new drivers include:
- Taking on a manageable workload
- Taking regular breaks
- Eating healthy meals
- Staying hydrated
- Keeping in touch with friends and family
- Getting enough sleep
- Making the most out of time off
Find Work With Load Boards
When it comes to finding shipping work, you can find truck loads to bid on at load boards. Load boards list hundreds of jobs that you can submit quotes for – once a quote has been accepted, you will then receive all of the information that you need and can get started. Load boards are ideal for new drivers as you do not have to have preexisting relationships and can find a steady stream of work. This will help you to make money, always have work to complete, and gives you the ability to build your experience levels.
Look After Your Vehicle
Truck drivers will also need to know how to look after their vehicle and keep it in the best condition. Heavy-duty vehicles can suffer wear and tear when they cover many miles each day, so you need to inspect your vehicle regularly and perform basic maintenance to keep it in the best condition and to increase the vehicle’s lifespan.
These tips should prove to be useful for any new truck driver and allow you to enjoy all the benefits that this type of career can bring.
