Are you thinking about becoming a commercial trucker? There’s no doubt that truck driving offers excellent potential for earning a comfortable income, but there are some considerations that you should be aware of.
From getting the required trucking permits to getting yourself ready for that lifestyle, here are things you should know before you become a commercial trucker.
1. You have to get the necessary permits to start operating.
Before you can even get behind the wheel of a truck, you’ll need to have your trucking permits in place. Depending on the state you live in, this could include a trucking license, a truck driver’s license, and a truck registration.
Additionally, you’ll also need to apply for special permits for the type of load you will be transporting. For example, if you’re hauling oversized loads, you’ll need to get a separate permit—the same with wide loads.
Apart from getting the necessary trucking permits, it would help to familiarize yourself with the commercial trucking rules and regulations in the states you’ll be driving through. This is because truckers are held to strict standards when it comes to road safety.
2. Health is paramount to thrive in this line of work.
Successful truckers are those who can stay healthy and fit, as they usually have to drive for long stretches of time. This means that you’ll have to watch out for your physical health, as well as your mental health.
Proper nutrition and rest are key in truck driving. It’s also essential to take regular breaks from the wheel—after all, trucking is a fast-paced job, and it pays to be physically prepared for anything that comes your way!
3. You need to understand Murphy’s Law.
Murphy’s law states, “Anything that can go wrong will go wrong.” This is especially true when trucking, as you constantly deal with unpredictable traffic and weather conditions.
Even your trucking permits could be revoked due to unforeseen circumstances—so always make sure you have a backup plan.
You’ll have to be prepared for the worst-case scenario (and hope for the best) at all times when truck driving. It also pays to know how to troubleshoot basic truck problems so you won’t be caught off guard in case of an emergency.
4. Technology is your best friend.
Modern trucking technologies, such as truck-mounted GPS systems and automated truck tracking devices, can make truck driving much easier.
Taking advantage of these helpful tools will help you save time and money while you’re out on the road. They can help prevent unexpected problems that could put your freighting jobs at risk.
5. Trucking is a way of life.
Last but not least, you must be prepared to live a lifestyle you’re not used to. Trucking is a 24/7 job, and you’ll be living out of your truck for days (or even weeks) at a time, so be prepared to adjust to this kind of lifestyle if you’re serious about truck driving.
Being a commercial trucker is more challenging than a lot of people might think. However, if you love adventure and don’t like being looked over the shoulder by a boss, then this might be the perfect job for you! Just make sure to bear in mind the five important things that we’ve discussed above before starting and some more information we mentioned before.
Ready to Become a Commercial Trucker?
So, do you think commercial trucking is the right career for you? Then get ready to hit the road! Here at Reliable Permit Solutions, LLC, we can also help you get the right trucking permits you need to start your journey after you get the proper education regarding commercial trucking. Get in touch with us today to get a rate estimate, and we’ll get your career going in no time!