Are you thinking about what a career path for a truck driver might look like? The trucking industry provides drivers with a wide variety of options, which include trucks, employers, and routes.
Typically, new drivers start as trainees. But as you gain experience, some companies may allow you to become a trainer or mentor yourself.
What Options Do I Have in a Truck Driving Career?
You’ll first want to ask yourself a few questions to understand what you hope to get out of a truck driving career. Think about the following:
- What type of truck do you want to drive?
- What do you want to be hauling?
- What type of route options do you prefer?
Hauling Options
Route Options
When it comes to routes, there are several options truck drivers can pursue. Local routes are great options for drivers with families as they can return home most nights. These routes are in-state.Regional routes are another option for truck drivers. These routes venture within 1,000 miles of a driver’s home and keep the driver on the road for 7-10 days at time. Regional routes carry from state to state and allow the driver to see more of the country.Over the road (OTR) or long haul routes are often irregular and include driving heavy loads. These routes allow the driver to see the most of the United States as the drives are often nationwide.Drivers can also find a dedicated driving route option that allows for predictable home time and varied routes. A bonus for this route is the option to schedule routes around a driver’s personal time.
What Is Life on the Road Like?
Knowing how truckers spend their lives on the road is important to determining your aptitude for becoming a truck driver.It’s important to note that truckers usually work around 70 hours a week. To avoid burnout, you can take breaks and sleep at night to follow your body’s natural rhythm. Avoiding sleeping during the day may help keep drivers alert and focused.Like at any job, it’s important for a truck driver to take vacations. Time off allows your body to rejuvenate. Plus, it helps drivers avoid drowsy and distracted driving.When preparing to drive a route, you may want to set a schedule for yourself and plan your routes. Be sure to make note of important service shops, rest stops, and gas stations. Pay attention to weather reports for your destination as well as areas along your route.If you’re interested in learning more, read “4 Reasons to Consider Truck Driving in 2018.”