Education

Local – Regional – OTR What is the Difference?

Local Trucking Jobs: Local truck drivers typically work within a 200-mile radius, allowing them to be home every night. This can be an excellent option for those with families or others who prefer a more routine schedule. Local jobs might require more detailed navigation skills due to the frequent use of smaller roads and multiple stops. Despite being generally less financially rewarding than OTR or regional driving, local trucking offers the benefit of regular home time and shorter routes.

Regional Trucking Jobs: Regional drivers operate within specific parts of the country, such as the Northeast or Midwest, and often stay within a 1,000-mile radius. These positions may offer a balance between time on the road and time at home, as drivers are typically out for several days at a time, with some routes allowing weekends at home. Regional trucking can be a middle ground for those who don’t want to be away from home for too long but still enjoy driving longer distances than local routes offer.

OTR Trucking Jobs: OTR trucking involves long-haul, interstate driving that can keep drivers on the road for weeks at a time. This type of trucking is known for higher earning potential due to the longer distances covered and the variety of freight hauled. OTR trucking offers the chance to travel extensively and can be suitable for those who enjoy life on the road and the independence it brings.

Employment Trends and Opportunities

The trucking industry in the U.S. is experiencing a high demand for drivers across all three types of trucking jobs, reflecting the sector’s growth and the crucial role trucking plays in the economy. Many trucking companies offer competitive salaries, benefits, and bonuses to attract new drivers and retain experienced ones. With over 10,000 trucker jobs available, finding a position that suits one’s preference and lifestyle has become easier, facilitated by online platforms that connect drivers with employers .

The industry is also addressing challenges such as driver shortages and enhancing the quality of jobs through initiatives like improved training programs and better working conditions. This effort is aimed at attracting a new generation of truck drivers, including those from underrepresented communities. Moreover, advancements in logistics and sustainability, along with a focus on driver safety, are shaping the future of trucking, making it an attractive field for many job seekers.

Craigslist Report

We went to Craigslist to check out some of the truck driver employment ads.
If you are looking to jump into a regional position the pay could be around $1500 on the W2 form or $2000 as an indie contractor on 1099. 
Over-the-road positions out of the Midwest will fetch you around 60 cents per mile at the moment. 

Starting Out! The Journey Begins

New truck drivers often start with long-haul routes, embarking on cross-country journeys that serve as the backbone of their early career. This phase is crucial for gaining valuable experience, understanding the nuances of the road, and mastering the art of efficient and safe driving. The rookie phase is about more than logging miles; it’s a time for building a solid foundation of skills and industry knowledge.

Advancing to Experienced Long-Haul Driver

With experience comes the opportunity to take on more challenging routes and assignments. Experienced long-haul drivers are valued for their reliability, expertise in navigating diverse routes, and ability to handle high-value or sensitive cargo. Some may choose to specialize in specific types of hauls, such as refrigerated goods, oversized loads, or hazardous materials, each requiring additional certifications and knowledge.
7 tips for reefer truck drivers Blog article by Schneider (opens in a new window)

Transitioning to Different Types of Trucking Jobs

As drivers accumulate experience, they often discover opportunities in different types of trucking roles. Some may opt for regional or local routes, which offer the chance to be closer to home more often. Others might find their niche in training and mentoring new drivers, leveraging their experience to guide the next generation of truckers.

Moving Beyond the Wheel: Administrative and Managerial Roles

For those inclined towards leadership and management, the trucking industry offers pathways into administrative roles. Positions like dispatcher, logistics coordinator, or fleet manager allow drivers to use their on-the-road experience to oversee operations, manage logistics, and ensure smooth delivery schedules. These roles require strong communication skills, a deep understanding of the trucking logistics, and the ability to solve complex logistical challenges.

Entrepreneurial Ventures: From Driver to Owner-Operator

Many experienced drivers choose the entrepreneurial route, becoming owner-operators. This path involves owning and operating one’s own trucking business, offering the freedom to choose routes, clients, and manage one’s own business affairs. Success as an owner-operator requires business acumen, understanding of market trends, and the ability to effectively manage the financial aspects of running a trucking business.

Continuing Education and Skill Development

Regardless of the chosen path, continuing education and skill development are key to advancing in the trucking industry. This could include pursuing additional certifications, staying updated with the latest industry technologies, or attending workshops and seminars on logistics and fleet management.

The Bottom Line

The trucking industry offers a road map filled with opportunities for growth and advancement. From the initial days of long-haul trucking to potential roles in management or business ownership, truckers have various avenues to build fulfilling careers. As the industry continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for those willing to explore, learn, and grow within this dynamic field.

As a truck driver, staying healthy on the road can be challenging.
Long hours, sedentary lifestyle, and limited food options can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. In this article we provide practical health and wellness road tips for truck drivers to help maintain your health and wellness.

Physical Health: Exercise and Nutrition

Staying Active: Incorporate simple exercises into your routine, like stretching, walking, or using resistance bands. These activities can be done during breaks and help in maintaining muscle strength and flexibility.

• Stretching Exercises: Start your day with a series of stretches to improve flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness. Include neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and wrist stretches.
• Resistance Training: Use resistance bands for strength training. Exercises like band pulls and leg presses can be easily done in limited spaces.
• Cardiovascular Health: Take brisk walks or jogs during breaks. Even a 15-minute walk around a rest stop can significantly boost your heart health.

Healthy Eating: Plan your meals ahead. Packing healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and yogurt can reduce the temptation of fast food. Opt for salads, grilled items, and water over fried foods and sugary drinks at truck stops.

• Breakfast Ideas: Start with a nutritious breakfast like oatmeal with fruits, or a whole-grain sandwich with lean protein such as turkey or chicken.
• Lunch and Dinner Options: Pack lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Combine them with salads or steamed vegetables. For quick meals, consider whole-grain wraps or pita bread with hummus and veggies.
• Snacks: Keep healthy snacks like almonds, carrots with hummus, Greek yogurt, or whole fruits handy.

Mental and Emotional Well-being of Truck Drivers

Managing Loneliness and Stress: Staying in touch with family and friends through calls and messages can alleviate feelings of isolation. Additionally, practices like mindfulness and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress.

• Stay Connected: Use technology to your advantage. Regular video calls with family and friends can reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness or meditation to manage stress. Even a few minutes of deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.

Quality Rest: Prioritize sleep by creating a restful environment in your truck. Consider using earplugs and eye masks to block out noise and light. Stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible.

• Sleep: Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Use comfortable bedding and consider white noise machines or apps to block out disruptive sounds.
• Relaxation Techniques: Before bed, practice relaxation techniques like reading, listening to soothing music, or gentle stretching.

Wellness Tools and Resources

Health Apps: Utilize apps that track fitness, meal planning, and mental health. They can help you stay on track with your health goals.

Support Networks: Join online forums or communities of truck drivers. Sharing experiences and tips with peers can provide valuable support.

Truck Driver Exercise – Workout with your Truck – Video by The Healthy Trucker.

If you are looking for a job here is what is available at Employal.

12 Tips To Stay Safe on Winter Roads

Winter brings unique challenges for truck drivers across the USA. Running on icy roads, snowfall, and decreased visibility requires extra caution and preparation. Here’s an overview guide with friendly advice on staying safe on icy roads 

Slow Down and Keep Distance

Rule #1:In icy conditions, lower your speed. High speeds are a leading cause of accidents in winter. Even if you’re within the legal limit, it might be too fast for snowy or icy roads. Maintain a safe buffer zone around your truck, avoiding close proximity to other vehicles​​.

Avoid ‘Packs’ of Traffic

Travel Alone: Traffic often moves in packs. Find a safe way to distance yourself from these groups, aiming to maximize space around your vehicle for safety​​.

Visibility is Key

Follow Your Judgment, Not Tail Lights: Poor visibility is common in snow. Avoid relying on the tail lights of the vehicle ahead, as this often means you’re too close. Stay parked if you feel unsafe driving in bad weather​​​​.

Winter Emergency Kit

Be Prepared: Carry essentials like snow chains, matches, candles, flashlights, warm clothing, road flares, non-perishable food, water, a radio, and backup cell phone chargers. These items can be lifesavers in emergencies​​.

Routine Truck Inspections

Pre-Trip Checks: Inspect your truck thoroughly before driving. Focus on the engine, brakes, fluids, heater, windshield defroster, mirrors, and tire conditions. Regular inspections can prevent many winter-related issues​​.

Chaining Practice

Be Chain-Ready: Practice fitting snow chains before you find yourself in a snowy situation. Proper chaining can make a significant difference in traction and overall safety​​.

Pull Over When Unsure

Safety First: If road conditions seem dangerous, don’t hesitate to pull over. It’s better to reschedule deliveries than to risk an accident​​.

Maintain Clear Visibility

Regular Cleaning: Ice accumulation on your truck, especially on lights and windshield wipers, can impair visibility. Make frequent stops to clean off the ice​​.

Layer Up

Dress Warmly: Wearing layers helps maintain body heat in extreme cold. Moisture-wicking materials and heavy cold-weather gear are crucial​​.

Traction Aids

Kitty Litter or Salt: Carry a bag of non-clay kitty litter or road salt. They provide traction on icy surfaces, helping your truck get moving from slippery spots​​.

Fuel Treatment

Use Anti-Gel: Diesel fuel can gel in cold temperatures. Use anti-gel additives in your fuel tanks to prevent this, especially when temperatures drop below 20°F​.

Extra Washer Fluid

Stay Clean: Keep extra gallons of washer fluid, formulated for cold temperatures, to clear dirty road spray from your windshield​​.

If you are looking for a job here is what is available at Employal.

Welcome to the trucking industry!

Starting your career as a truck driver is an exciting journey. However, landing your first job might seem challenging. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tips for new truck drivers.

Tips for New Truck Drivers

Overview of Industry Requirements

Know the Basics
Understand the necessary qualifications, including obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and any endorsements required for the job you’re interested in.

Research Job Expectations
Explore the types of driving jobs available (local, regional, OTR) and the experience levels they typically require.

Building Your Skills and Qualifications

Enroll in a Reputable Training Program
Invest in a quality CDL training program that provides both classroom education and hands-on experience.

Gain Experience through Apprenticeships or Entry-Level Positions
Consider opportunities with carriers that offer training programs or entry-level positions for new drivers.

Crafting Your Application and Resume

Highlight Relevant Skills and Training
Detail your training, any relevant experience (even non-driving roles), and showcase any certifications or endorsements.

Tailor Your Resume
Customize your resume for each application to align with the specific job requirements and emphasize your strengths.

Networking and Job Search Strategies

Leverage Online Platforms
Explore job boards, industry-specific websites, and social media platforms dedicated to trucking job listings.

Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events
Participate in industry events, job fairs, and meet-ups to network with potential employers and other drivers.

Interview Preparation and Impressions

Research Prospective Companies
Learn about the company you’re applying to and align your motivations with their values and mission.

Prepare for Interviews
Practice common interview questions, focus on safety, reliability, and your willingness to learn and grow as a driver.

Nailing Your First Job

Be Open to Opportunities
Consider starting with a company that may offer lower pay initially but provides valuable experience and training.

Prove Your Worth
Once hired, demonstrate your dedication, reliability, and commitment to safety to lay the foundation for a successful career.

If you are looking for a job here is what is available at Employal.

For truck drivers in the USA, navigating roadside inspections is a crucial aspect of ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and maintaining a positive reputation. Roadside inspections, conducted by enforcement officers, are designed to ensure that commercial vehicles and drivers adhere to federal and state regulations. Proper preparation and understanding can help drivers not only pass these inspections but also contribute to a safer road environment.

Importance of Roadside Inspections

Roadside inspections serve multiple purposes:

Safety: The primary goal is to ensure the safety of the driver, the vehicle, and other road users. Inspections help identify potential issues that could lead to accidents.

Regulatory Compliance: Inspections verify compliance with federal and state regulations, including Hours of Service (HOS) rules, weight limits, and vehicle maintenance requirements.

Environmental Protection: Inspections can identify and prevent leaks or spills that could harm the environment.

Public Image: A clean inspection record contributes to a positive reputation for the driver and the carrier, which can attract more business opportunities.

Preparing for Roadside Inspections

Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle. Address any issues promptly, ensuring that lights, brakes, tires, and other essential components are in optimal condition.

Documentation: Keep all necessary documents organized and readily accessible. This includes your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Medical Examiner’s Certificate, Hours of Service (HOS) records, and vehicle registration.

Cargo Securement: Ensure that your cargo is properly secured and meets regulations. Unsecured or improperly secured cargo can result in citations.

HOS Compliance: Familiarize yourself with HOS regulations and ensure accurate record-keeping in your logbook or Electronic Logging Device (ELD).

During the Roadside Inspection

Stay Calm: If pulled over for an inspection, remain calm and courteous. Follow the officer’s instructions.

Cooperate: Provide all requested documents and answer questions truthfully.

Be Respectful: Treat the inspection as a professional interaction. Avoid arguing or becoming confrontational.

Know Your Rights: You have the right to report unsafe conditions, request clarification, and understand the inspection process.

After the Inspection

Learn from the Experience: If any violations are found, use them as an opportunity for improvement.

Address Violations: If cited for violations, take corrective action promptly. This may involve paying fines, attending training, or rectifying issues.

Maintain Records: Keep a copy of the inspection report for your records. If no violations are found, this clean inspection record can be valuable.

Conclusion

Roadside inspections are a fundamental aspect of the trucking industry, contributing to road safety and regulatory compliance. By proactively preparing for inspections, cooperating with enforcement officers, and addressing any violations, truck drivers can navigate roadside inspections successfully while upholding their commitment to safe and responsible driving. Remember, a well-prepared and informed driver not only passes inspections but also contributes to a safer and more efficient transportation network.
Here is a link to FMCSA DOT inspections article.

SAMSara article on different levels of DOT roadside inspecitons.

Today we answer a question we frequently get. Do you need a CDL to drive a box truck? And what better way to dip into this topic, than to have editorial team of truckers.wiki the trucking Wikipedia guest post.
The question of whether you need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to drive a box truck is a common one in the trucking industry. The answer depends on several factors, including the straight truck’s size and weight, and the nature of the goods being transported.
Learn more about straight (box) trucks here.

Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Box Truck?

Whether you need a CDL to drive a box truck depends on the GVWR of the vehicle.

If the box truck has a GVWR rating of 26,001 pounds or more, a CDL is required. However, if the box truck has a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, a CDL is generally not required under federal law. Instead, a regular driver’s license would suffice for operating the vehicle.
However, certain states may have additional requirements, and it’s essential to check local regulations.
Furthermore, if the box truck is used to transport hazardous materials that require placarding, a CDL with a HazMat endorsement would be necessary, regardless of the vehicle’s weight.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirement

A CDL is a license that allows drivers to operate large, heavy, or placarded hazardous material vehicles in the United States. According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, a CDL is required to operate a vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.

Additional Requirements

Even if a CDL isn’t required, professional box truck drivers must still comply with other FMCSA regulations. For example, if the truck is used for commercial purposes — that is, to transport goods for business — the driver must maintain a logbook if they travel more than 150 air miles from their work reporting location.

Health Requirements

Regardless of whether a CDL is required, all drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) must comply with certain health requirements. For instance, they must pass a DOT physical exam, which certifies that they’re physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. This examination covers various areas such as vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall physical ability.

Driver Qualifications

A prospective box truck driver must also meet certain driver qualification standards. These typically include having a clean driving record and being at least 21 years old if driving interstate (across state lines). Some states allow intrastate (within a single state) commercial driving at a younger age, but the specifics vary by state.

Experience can also be a crucial factor. Even if a CDL is not required, employers often prefer drivers with prior experience driving similar vehicles. This is because driving a box truck requires skills beyond those needed for regular passenger vehicles, such as maneuvering in tight spaces and handling larger blind spots.

Insurance Considerations

Insurance is another important consideration for box truck drivers. Commercial vehicles generally require commercial auto insurance, which provides coverage for damage or injuries resulting from business-related operations. The required coverage level may be higher for commercial vehicles than for personal vehicles, and premiums are often higher as well.

Furthermore, if a box truck driver is an independent contractor or owner-operator, they may also need to consider cargo insurance, which covers the goods being transported, and liability insurance, which provides coverage if the driver is at fault in an accident.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you need a CDL to drive a box truck depends on the GVWR of the truck and the nature of the goods being transported. Health requirements, driver qualifications, and insurance considerations also play a significant role. Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensuring regulatory compliance in the trucking industry.

Skills Tests (Step 2)

After passing the written test, you’ll need to pass a skills test that demonstrates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle with the additional endorsements. The skills test will typically include a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-the-road driving.

Class A

Holding a class A CDL will enable you to drive a vehicle that can carry up to 26,001 pounds, for example, tank vehicles, semi-trucks, trucks, tractors, buses, etc. So, as a driver, you can haul anything from liquids to towed cars falling within a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 10,000 lbs.