Getting into trucking can be an exciting time, full of promise, but it also includes all the challenges that any new career path would present. If you're just getting started, you might be wondering what the most difficult part is when getting into trucking. From long hours and being away from home for weeks at a time, to adjusting to life on the road, we're here to help you navigate the bumps in the road.
The Learning Curve
Getting Comfortable Behind the Wheel. Probably one of the most difficult things about beginning a trucking career is the learning curve. Driving a big rig has no resemblance to driving a car. It takes time to get comfortable with the size and handling—not to mention the added responsibilities involved in operating a large vehicle. In your early days, you can easily be overwhelmed by everything there is to learn, from mastering your rig to understanding the mass of regulations that govern this industry.
Overcoming the Learning Curve
To get through this phase, the best prescription is practice, practice, and more practice. Take it slow; understand your truck. Never be afraid to ask questions or even an opinion from fellow more experienced drivers. Remember, every expert was a beginner.
Condition of Long Working Hours and Life on the Road
Another reality that one has to face, which can be a challenge to truckers just getting into the business, is the actual long hours and demanding lifestyle of trucking. Trucking is not an average, everyday kind of 9-to-5 job. The hours are very long, and days will run into weeks out of the house. Isolation and lack of a solid routine are the toughest things many have to adjust to.
Coping with the Lifestyle
The secret to handling this part of the job is to find a balance that works for you. Do stay in touch with family and friends by phone or use video chatting. Make your cab feel a little bit like home, taking along some comfort items such as favorite snacks, entertainment, or even pictures of family members. Keep in mind to take good care of your mental and physical health—exercise regularly, eat well, and get lots of sleep. It makes all the difference.
How to Job Market and Nail Your First Gig
Getting your foot in the door can be very tough as well. It's a competitive industry for truckers, and getting your very first job may involve some time and sweat. Before you move on to pick up the most desirable loads or routes, you will need to build experience and reputation.
Breaking into the Industry
First of all, build a good resume that specifically outlines your skills, certifications, and trainings. Driving different types of loads will bring you experience and prove to probable employers that you are a versatile, competent, and reliable trucker. Networking among other truckers and industry experts in the business may also open doors to job opportunities.
Combining Trucking and Family Life
Probably the toughest part for most new truckers is how to maintain a family while having a trucking career. It's difficult for many of you to be away from your families for extended periods. It takes some time to find a routine that will keep everyone happy and connected.
Keeping family bonds strong
Make sure you communicate with your family as much as you are able. Even stuff like just calling every night or letting each other know what happened during your day will help you to be close. If you're at home, make the most of the time you have together by really being there and engaging in activities everyone enjoys.
Staying Motivated Through the Hard Times
It's easy to become discouraged in the early days of a trucking career, but one must keep themselves motivated. Never forget why you got into trucking—maybe for the freedom of the open road, potential earnings, or just because you love driving. The struggles you are going through now will, in the long run, make you a much stronger and more seasoned driver.
Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
Set small, attainable goals to keep you moving. Celebrate that progress, no matter if it is conquering some hard maneuver or completing your first long haul, or just making it through a rough day. Surround yourself with encouraging, supportive people who understand what trucking throws your way.
Building a trucking career isn't easy, but with the right heart and mind, one can overcome the hardships that come with it. The toughest parts—whether the learning curve, extremely long hours of work, or just the time away from home—are all types of hurdles that can be scaled by the right mindset and support. Keep in mind, every senior trucker has been in your shoes at one time or another. So, stick around for a while, and you'll find your road groove in no time.
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