The Truck Driving Career

“SEE THE COUNTRY AND GET PAID”

And that’s how the sales pitch goes…
Well I started this blog to try to give some of you newbies an idea of what you’ll be getting into.
My name is Eric and I’ve been driving OTR for a little over 12 years with a handful of different companies.

Overall it’s been a decent living, $40,000 a year on average, no “boss” breathing down your neck, and some elements of freedom.

Yes, you will see the country and take in some amazing sights, sounds, and experiences. Just wanted to start in a positive note because the industry in general has been decent.

Now for the straight truth of what you’ll be getting into…

Be prepared for long hours, hard work, bad traffic, worse weather, and a whole lot of other trucks and cars on the road with you. All the things your recruiter will forget to mention.

In the last decade due to numerous federal tax breaks, the truck driving school industry has exploded.
Every major city has numerous training centers and some are pretty good, such as the one in your local community colleges. But yet many others are fly by night “ripoff” artists looking to cash in on some unsuspecting student.

These schools will range in price from a couple thousand to several thousand dollars, about as much as four years at community college.

My personal take on these schools is don’t do it! Do not go into debt just to learn how to drive a truck. Even the local college unless you have some kind of educational grant.

Unlike An Electrician, Carpenter, or other skilled trades, truck driving has no standardized pay rate upon completion of training.

With little or no experience expect to run “OTR” or Over The Road starting out.

No hourly rate because you will not get paid by the hour on OTR.

For some of you coming out of the manufacturing sector this may be a big shock.

Truck drivers are in one of the few professions that are not covered by federal minimum wage laws, another being food servers.

Now before I scare you off completely,let me add that generally you should make well above minimum wage.

Expect to make anywhere between $15-$20 per hour while driving- not while sitting in docks, but more on that later.

My advice to you is to have a trucking company pay for your training, but keep in mind when you go that route the company most times will require a signed contract stating you agree to work for them a minimum amount of time, usually a year.

Quitting or other breach of which will make you liable for the cost, normally several thousand dollars. Buyer beware!

While not singling out any particular trucking company, be aware that the treatment of drivers varies greatly between them. A simple search will find several forums, blogs, etc to find other experiences.

Never rely on solely on a company recruiter, talk to other drivers and search the web for all the info you can find before deciding.

After completing training and company orientation, expect to spend 3-4 weeks riding with a “driver trainer”.

This is a federal requirement and most companies require it.

While most of these ladies and men who train are very good and professional, many are not.

Some companies allow rookie drivers with as little as 3 months experience to train. This is regardless of there record or abilities. For the most part it’s all about getting “backsides in the seat”.

Don’t expect to make good money the first year. Though a recruiter may tell you to expect $40,000 or more in the first year, that is rarely the case.

A large chunk of that number will be the training itself, which some companies value as much as $10,000 toward your gross income.

Expect to spend a minimum of two weeks out on the road or more when starting out, though many companies try to get you home every weekend lately, often it will not be Friday night but usually Saturday while expecting you to roll out again Sunday to make Monday morning delivery.

Not a lot of time for family there.

A lot of times you will be sent home “Under a load” which means taking all the equipment and freight home with you. Having to find a safe place to keep an 18 wheeler may pose a problem.

All the real training begins once your “first seat” or as a solo driver for the first time. There will be very little support or any from the dispatcher, fleet manager, driver manager, or whatever your company calls them. Most times just ask other drivers and many of them can and will help.

There are many stressful aspects to this profession not the least of which being heavy traffic and other inconsiderate drivers.

A major headache will be finding shippers and receivers. most times the directions supplied will be off, or many times way off.

It will not be like driving your car, where when you miss a turn just flip a “U”. Most times missing a turn will mean a long drive to find enough space to turn around. On some occasions having to back up a long distance against heavy traffic. Then you’ll know stress.

“SEE THE COUNTRY AND GET PAID!”

If you decide to stick with it at least a year you will see many great sights out on the road. Though probably more Ohio, Pennsylvania, and east coast then you’ll ever want to.

Nothing against those places, but that is where most of the freight runs and where you’ll see most of your miles.

LEASING-

I have a few thoughts on that one, my advice is DON’T DO IT! Not if you’re new to the business. I’m sure many make a good living leasing a truck and they can write their own post, but if you do the math you’ll see.

When you lease, all truck expenses become your expenses. This includes fuel, maintenance, tires, insurance, taxes, etc. The truck will normally be used or near the end of warranty.

The company may have a fuel bonus but how slowly do they raise it when fuel prices go up? How quick do they lower it when prices come down again?

Small details like that can cost hundreds or more a year out of your pocket. This is all in addition to higher SSI tax payments and out of pocket health insurance.

Did you know as a lease operator, fuel costs will be more than the gross income of most company drivers?
$35-40,000 per year!

Do you know SSI tax will be double that of a company driver? out of your pocket!

Do you realize a tax return will have to be filed every 3 months?

Did you know some trucking companies charge for the “privilege” of pulling company trailers?

YOU WILL NOT BE AN “OWNER OPERATOR” if you lease!

Do you know Owner Operator rates vary depending on the load, weight, location, and freight. While lease operators rates stay the same no matter how heavy, (more Fuel), or how tough the load (New York, etc)?

Owner operators usually have access to a “board” containing a variety of loads in the area. That owner operators have the option of which loads to pull? Lease operators do not.

Decline a load? guess again and watch yourself sitting 24-48 hrs with no miles. That truck payment is still due.

Skeptical? Check the trucking forums or just turn up the CB.

If you are thinking about leasing, just make sure you do the math and know what you’re getting into.

“THERE IS A NATIONWIDE SHORTAGE OF TRUCK DRIVERS!”

This is the theme of many news stories nationwide.
This is only part of the story. Anyone who commutes daily knows there are plenty of truckers on the road now.

All the freight in the country will get delivered eventually. It’s just a matter of when, and in this business “when” equals “how much”.

The shippers who pay the highest rates always get their freight moved while the cheap ones sit and wait.

Trucking companies scream “THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH DRIVERS FOR THE INDUSTRY!”

The truth is every trucking firm wants more drivers for themselves, and continually compete with each other for drivers.

Some even use underhanded strategies such as abusive exclusive employment contracts, failing to give references to prospective employers, false accident reports on your permanent record, false drug test results, etc. While these incidents are uncommon they do happen.

The driver turnover rate for most large OTR (over the road) companies varies some say as high as 200%.
For LTL (less than truckload) or many unionized turnover is much lower.

Though many leave the industry completely, many more just go to other places hoping the grass will be greener.

Most times you’ll start with an OTR or”long haul” company simply because unionized or local jobs are the most coveted and hard to get.

If you are all ready driving and just looking for another place, try to talk to other drivers first.
Also check out the equipment, specifically the trailers.

Most will invest a ton of money into tractors, which is good. But one that keeps up all their equipment is usually better managed and better to work for.

You will not be paid for every mile you drive. Since the miles for each run will be precalculated using mapping software such as Rand McNally or the Home Movers Guide.

Many times your driving miles will be as much as 10% over paid miles. This is just the way it is because that is also how the shippers pay the trucking industry.

When the truck needs a repair on the road you will not be paid for your time in most cases.

There will be a lot of sitting and waiting to get loaded and unloaded, expect not to be paid for this either.

Yes some places advertise “detention pay” their claims are dubious at best. To actually receive it is rare.

Be prepared to spend a lot of time sitting in truck stops during slow freight periods.

Be prepared to loose a lot of sleep during heavy freight periods.

Freight volume will vary from week to week, and region to region depending on the company size and trucks on the road.

In closing I hope this little lens enlightened you just a little. This is all just my take from my own personal experience. Ultimately, you’ll draw your own conclusions…

Ready to get OUT of the truck? Trucking life not at all what you expected or were promised? I left the trucking life and started a home internet business. Built it all from my laptop, and so can you! Join me at http://www.zentrucking.com/.

Have a great ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Just What is the Stereotypical “Truck Driver”?

What do you think of when you think “Trucker”? A southern “Good Old Boy” or “Redneck”? You would be surprised!

There was a time in the not to distant past when the image of a “trucker” was that of a cowboy boot wearing, tobacco chewing, “Good old Boy” from the “sticks”. The reality today however, is quite different.

In the history of trucking, drivers quite often hailed from distant alcoves. In rural farming communities and the deep south in particular. Trucking was the means by which produce was moved into the big cities. In the early days of the interstate system, large cities were compact. Unlike the sprawling metropolises of today, suburbia was still unheard of.

At that time, cross-country travel was still primarily by train. Durable goods as well moved by rail coast to coast. Farmers hauling their produce and livestock to market in those cities were some of the first to utilize trucks and later trailers. This was the beginning of the “Trucking Industry”. Later on “independents” or for hire drivers with their own trucks would move these goods to market, giving the farmers more time to tend to their crops.

The birth of the interstate system was due primarily to the need to move various goods to and from major cities. Envisioned primarily for interstate commerce, these “superhighways” contributed greatly to the urban sprawl we have today. Many smaller metropolises arose from simple farming towns and so on.
It was this close association with farming and ranching communities which led to generations of truckers raised in these areas.

Now fast forward to the twenty first century, the trucking industry has evolved with the times. Modern trucks employ the latest technology, including, satellite communications, on board computers, and even automatic transmissions.

While “old timers” had to sleep on boards across the front seats, the newest tractors have spacious sleepers, wide beds, and even closets. Aerodynamic bodies and power steering means that smaller people can now handle an eighteen wheeler.

This has given rise to record numbers of ladies joining the industry. Combine this with the volatile job market, trucking has seen people from all walks of life joining the industry. It is just as common to meet an x-factory worker as it is to meet his former boss now driving a truck.

I’ve met former doctors-yes doctors, pushed into trucking by high insurance rates. Former engineers, accountants, and all sorts of professionals. While many join for the “adventure” of the open road, many just start trucking for the income, or maybe just to “get away” from it all.

In closing just remember that we’re all just people out there, just trying to make a living down a long lonely road.

Have a Great ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Tips for Staying Safe on That Next Road Trip

These days people are taking to the highways in record numbers. With airport delays and the value of the dollar falling overseas, the fear of terrorism and passport delays, taking that next vacation right here at home is an great idea.

Even if one chooses to vacation in their own “backyard”, there are still plenty of perils out on the highway. Safety and security are a primary concern especially when traveling with children and older loved ones. Clearly the first step is to make sure the family vehicle is in top condition, have a good mechanic give it a full inspection.

Make sure the tires, belts, and hoses are in good condition. These and other rubber and plastic items under the hood tend to fail, even on newer vehicles. Be sure to also check the battery and fluid levels. Back in the trunk make sure the spare tire has air, it is a common mistake to forget this. Make sure the jack and lug-wrench are there as well. It is also a good idea to bring a couple of extra gallons of water and a roll of duct tape (the universal repair tool). A flash light and “swiss army” knife is also a good idea.

Be sure to bring plenty of drinking water and dry foods such as granola bars and trail mix. Some blankets and coats are good especially in the spring and early fall when temperatures can be erratic. You will need extra prescription medications as well. Mountain highways often close because of freak storms or fog, don’t be stranded without them.

Before “hitting the road” see about buying a hand-held CB radio. Depending where you plan to travel, Many areas still are without cell service, especially out west. Truckers use channel 19 for the most part, the highway patrol is usually down on channel 9. Depending what roads you plan to travel, theres usually a trucker on them willing to help. Don’t be afraid to call out for help or directions if needed, truckers are a valuable resource for road information such as accidents or bad weather.

Another great item is a satellite radio, there is nothing like traveling state to state listening to your favorite programs, and not having to constantly fiddle with the receiver. You can even listen to the weather channel if need be.

Just remember to pre-plan your trip and route, then check it online. Search for areas of bad weather and construction delays. Remember that the difference between mountain and low-lying weather can be like the difference between summer and winter.

I guess I could have wrote a laundry list, like the Boy Scout motto, “be prepared”. These are just a few suggestions to get you started.

Just one last thing, don’t forget that MAP!

Have a Great Ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Why 18-wheelers drive more slowly

Commercial tractor trailers have evolved in the last twenty years beyond the simple beasts they once were. In the old days, trucks were hulking monsters billowing black smoke and rumbling down the road, shaking the pavement as they rolled by.

Todays eighteen wheelers have some of the most advanced technology available, computerized engine management, twin turbos, modern emission systems, automatic transmissions, and air ride suspensions. But even with light weight aluminum bodies and modern aerodynamics, the biggest expense for trucking companies is still fuel.

Skyrocketing diesel costs has led most major transportation companies to use “governors” or “limiters” on their engines. The largest companies keep those governors set usually between sixty two and sixty eight miles per hour.These slower speeds keep costs down and in many instances increase safety.

Another strategy is to lower the “horse power” rating of the engines. This is accomplished through the computerized engine management system. This however, has the effect of much slower speeds while climbing hills, and slower acceleration in general.

Transmissions and rear-end gear ratios also play a roll. Since heavy trucks are made-to-order at the factory, these specifications vary greatly. Companies will “spec” these trucks according to their various needs and nature of their business.

With new congressional laws on the horizon, owner operators also will have to contend with governor regulations. Soon we will see an entire nation of trucks governed around sixty five. Independents will have little choice but to comply, or risk loosing their “authority” or right to transport goods “interstate”.

Lower governors usually mean less “momentum”, momentum allows heavy trucks to maintain speed over hilly terrain. This allows a higher average rate of speed that would otherwise be far below the speed limit.

These issues, combined with the massive weights trucks carry, (around eighty thousand pounds or forty tons), will contribute to the “slowing” if the nations highways in the coming years.

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

What to Expect of a Career in Trucking

Once finishing truck driving school, your instructor hands you a certificate and sends you on your way. But your not a truck driver yet. Thats right, you have your diploma, CDL, and maybe even a hat with the school logo. But your education is just starting. Driving schools teach just the basics and thats it. Double clutching, parallel parking, basic logging, and a gigantic lot to learn backing in.

Unfortunately, real life trucking will be a whole lot harder. Once hired by a trucking company, the next step is to “run” with a “driver trainer” for three to six weeks. This is when the fun begins. All sorts of drivers train students, and many are very good and professional. Many are not. Many of these companies allow rookie drivers with as little as a couple of months experience train newer drivers. Like “blind leading the blind” many of these “trainers” are clueless as to the serious business of driving a truck, and train mostly for the money. Some trucking outfits see this as an opportunity to run that truck as a “team” operation, which means running as hard as two veteran drivers in the same truck. Those trucks will normally run day and night, with very few stops.

The trainers like this because all miles paid are paid to them, potentially doubling their income. The companies love this because team trucks are far more profitable than solos. But where dose the leave the trainee? Being new to the business it will take time to adjust to those long driving shifts. For some, trying to sleep while the truck is moving will be nearly impossible. As for pay, the trainee usually receives a small paycheck during this time, but it’s usually just enough for some food and expenses, not very much. Some companies will even continue to team you with another rookie driver, even after the initial training! They say the extra “teaming” with another student improves your skills.

I don’t know how teaming with another trainee can improve your skills, it just seems like they’re trying to squeeze the trainees for all the profit they can. Since many drivers refuse to run team, team trucks are hard to fill. First year drivers are paid far below average, so don’t expect top rates when starting out. I know what your recruiter told you, they told me the same things. Just remember that recruiters are paid to fill seats, and they’re paid very well. Your education has only just begun.

Have a safe ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Why Every Trucker Needs a Laptop

Technology has caught up with all of us, including truck drivers. There was a time in trucking when a driver had to stop at a pay phone to get their next load, times sure have changed. If your a driver running for a major company, chances are pretty good you have one of those “OBC’s” on board. Using satellite technology , these devices can track your movements, speed, stops, idle, and from what I hear, can shut you down at the push of a button. Though I’ve never had the “pleasure” of that experience.

This device may be called an “On Board Computer”, and surely the satellite technology it uses is pretty sophisticated. The unit itself is nothing more than a glorified text pager, enlarged to the size of a standard medium pizza box, they are pretty “tough” (personal experience), but useless for anything other than simple text messages and maybe email.

These days it’s a “must” to have a cell phone and headset on the road with you, but do you really need a laptop? Many truckers are probably reading this from their computer already, but if your at home reading this and been thinking about making the purchase, then by all means, get er done! How many times have you sat in the truck stop, no load or out of hours, spending all your hard earned cash on overpriced truckstop food and movies with nothing better to do than “trash talk” on the two-way?

Many a wise driver utilize this time to do more constructive things. Did you know you can earn an accredited college degree online? And not some scam degree, most major universities offer a wide variety of BA and graduate courses online. Once enrolled these classes become available to you 24/7. While learning at your own pace and having complete freedom to study at the times best for you!

Many Owner Operators use a computer to save time, organize paperwork, find customers, and increase profits in the process. Still others build entire internet businesses from the sleeper, all with a laptop and wifi hotspot. These days all cellular companies offer cellular modems or PC cards, enabling you to get on line from most anywhere as long as your near a major interstate.

How many times have you sat at the Pilot, complaining about your job, your dispatcher, no money or whatever? Bored out of your mind and wondering what to do with yourself? Forget about the DVD’s and video games. get on the internet build a better life!

Have a great ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Tips to Take the Stress out of Traveling

Beating Stress While Driving

A sign at my old terminal gate reminded me every day,”You Are Now Entering the Deadliest Place in America- The National Highway System” . A sobering reminder considering 99% of my job required being out on those highways. Being a commercial truck driver for many years, I have been witness to the rapid growth of traffic over the years. Truck traffic alone has doubled since 1995 when I started out.

These days we live in a service oriented, “commuter” society. Many persons jobs require them to commute not just to and from work, but during the day as part of their jobs. Combined with urban sprawl, many parts of the country are seeing traffic jams even in remote rural areas, that were unheard of years ago. This is particularly true of the south and around my area of north west Atlanta.

Traffic density and slow volumes are the primary cause of stress amongst motorists, which is no secret. But the most dangerous part comes as your clearing the jam and everyone “floors it” trying to make up for lost time. The first step for easing driving stress is giving yourself plenty of time. It never ceases to amaze me the backups in in Atlanta mid-morning. Any one who’s lived here more than a month knows how early you need to leave to make it downtown on time.

Everyone should already know the basics, seat belt, no distractions, no cell phone, or food while driving. But did you know that deep stressful thought can be just as distracting as screaming kids? dwelling on problems at work or home will divert your attention and increase the odds of an accident. I is called “driving angry” and it is just now starting to be addressed in the trucking industry. To avoid this condition, it is essential to focus on your breathing, deeply and fully. Count down aloud, with each out breath, from the numbers nine to one. Don’t “force” the breath, just as deep as you can naturally. Try this before moving the vehicle in the morning, to clear your head, and ease the stress.

Traffic will only grow from here. Commercial trucks are expected to double in volume yet again by 2015, not to mention a more affluent population and far more car owners. Remember that a record number of baby boomers a set to retire over the coming years. With retirement usually comes travel. RV’s or motor-homes will also double in volume in the coming years. These vehicles, while very large, require no special license to operate. Any one can drive an RV, and many shouldn’t. Unlike commercial trucks which require special training and licenses, motor homes only require a drivers license. When sharing the road with large vehicles just make sure to give a lot of room and get around quickly. Do not run along side these vehicles since this is their “blind spot” and it will be just like asking for a wreck.

Get in the habit of slowing down more than speeding up, though most people don’t realize this, as drivers we tend to adjust with the flow of traffic. These “traffic waves” move like waves in water, maybe a few dozen vehicles running together. Try to avoid this, moving at excessively higher rates of speed will increase your blood pressure and anxiety. Remain aware of your driving and what is going on around you. Check your mirrors but don’t stare into them. If you see a “grill” looming large behind you, just pull right and slow down as much as is necessary to encourage them to pass. Never let traffic “push” you.

Take a few seconds and stretch your fingers straight out with your hands still on the wheel. Are your fingers shaking? Then it is time to take a break, just pull off and stretch your legs. Sit upright in the seat with both hands firmly on the wheel and watch your breathing. A hunched over posture with shallow breathing increases stress and reduces blood flow to the head.

When entering high traffic volume or a “jam” just pick a lane and stay there. I’ve seen them thousands of times in the truck, the drivers darting back and forth, lane to lane, only to be just a few car lengths ahead coming out. Not matter how appealing that fast moving lane may look now, it will stop eventually, then the one you were just in will start to move. I think we’ve all experienced that. Remember that excessive lane movements increase stress and the odds of an accident.

Never “cut in” in a construction zone, wait to merge. We all have some place to be, and we all have to wait our turn. Is cutting someone off really worth the risk these days? Though you may not have a violent nature, what about the person you just cut off, is it really worth the risk or stress? Just take it easy, and you’ll get there. And get there alive.

Have a safe ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

“ZEN and the Art of Diesel Mechanics”

Though fond of Robert M. Persig and his work of a similar title, I do not intend to quote any of his text here. But after spending a good portion of my life behind the wheel, well over one million miles, I can relate to many concepts explored by the author.

Truck driving, or any other kind of driving for that matter, can be one of the most monotonous and boring of tasks. After much investment in audio books, satellite radio, and other diversions, I’ve come to appreciate the quiet solitude of the open road.

It is through those travels that many find the true meaning of “serenity”.

While discovering a level of peace and clarity few will ever experience, many travelers understand deeply the “lure of the road”.

Many people will take to the road on vacation, in search of the perfect sunrise, the perfect mountain view, the perfect Fall colors. After so many years on the road, you realize they’re ALL perfect.

It is within the most mundane of tasks that the beauty of life unfolds. Traveling gives us the opportunity to expand and grow as people. This is something beyond simply new sights and experiences.

Zen simply means to “live in this moment”, to live every moment as though it were your last. There is no tomorrow or yesterday in a state of zen, only here and now.

Haven’t we all heard the phrase “Where ever you go, there you are”? That is a powerful “zen like” statement. Within which contains a profound truth, not matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, you’re still living.

Many things go wrong on the road, many plans are disrupted. It is through the trials of life that the greatest spiritual growth occurs. With problems, compassion and understanding develop.

Just a few catastrophic accident scenes will show what is important in life, like the smile and wave of a young child in the car ahead.

As one famous rock star once stated,” It’s not where I am now that matters, it was the getting here that counts!”

Travel for the sake of travel, and not to see anything or arrive anywhere, Then you have already arrived.

It’s the difference between just a trip, and a journey.

Just a vacation, or an adventure!

Have a Great ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Buying a Rig for your Trucking Business

With the many big trucks on the road, often we see many familiar trucking company names and colors. But the vast majority of freight is still hauled by “Independents” or owner operators. Owning a tractor-trailer and running your own “authority” is similar to running any small business. A good amount of thought must be put into planning and starting your trucking business.

Many truck owners opt for a “lease contract” with a large logistics/brokerage company. By doing this they ease the burden of having to hunt for customers themselves. In essence, the company is leasing YOUR services, truck and time. This also means an obligation to run only said companies freight and no other. for those starting in the industry, this may be a better choice until more experience is gained.

When buying that shiny new ten wheeler, don’t let emotions get involved. Some new luxury “Road Trucks” can cost upwards of $125,000. Or the price of a new home in most of the country. After your “spec” and other options it could run nearly $200,000. For many this will simply be too much to get started, try looking for a good “new/used” tractor and keep the miles around 200,000 with plenty of drive train warranty remaining.

When buying an older used or “reconditioned” tractor, familiarize yourself with terms like “dyno testing” and “oil analysis” these reports are critical to the overall value of the truck. Check the warranty on the reconditioned or rebuilt motor, was the build “long”(complete engine) or “short” (top half). And like with any vehicle, check the history report for any “rolls” or major wrecks. Next is tires, drives, (“caps” or new), steer tire odd or uneven wear (clues to steering problems). Is there ANY leakage, cracks or welds on the frame rails? Rebuilt rears, drive shafts,clutch, and turbos? Such items could cost ten times as much to replace in a ten wheeler than in a standard “half ton”

In closing,just remember while some add-ons may be critical (aux power unit,deer guard) however, be wise as to extra expenses. Forget about the ten “low-pro” wheels and tires until you’ve achieved some success. Just remember to go at it like a business person, conserve cash, reinvest, be frugal, and most of all be safe!

Ride with pride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

Read More Articles Here: Thought Search Articles

Why do so Many People Hate Big Trucks and Truck Drivers?

Truck regulation is a politically popular topic these days. With the explosion of commercial truck traffic and many stories of catastrophic accidents on the highways. Accidents involving large vehicles usually end in great destruction and fatalities. Over the past several years federal regulation of the trucking industry has tightened, and fatality accidents have actually decreased, in relation to freight miles driven. But why then do so so many menacing trucks seem to be still on the road?

Remember that all sorts of people drive trucks these days, gone are of the days of the stereotypical “Trucker”, usually southern or mid-western based. These drivers normally came from outlying and rural areas. Usually friendly and helpful, these guys built a reputation for professional trucking that still exists today in most of the country. But these days a large number of truck drivers are newer or “rookie” drivers. The reason for this are the baby boomer’s.

Like every industry, trucking has been experiencing record retirements. Because of the tough nature of truck driving, retirements tend to come earlier. Health problems and the inability to pass a physical, move many drivers out of the industry earlier than most professions. Combined with record freight growth, the large number of drivers required, and stringent physical requirements, refilling those seats is a tough task. This leads to lesser qualified applicants being accepted, and less than adequate training in some cases.

While out on the road, you tend to meet people from all walks of life. From former factory workers to professionals, such as former doctors and engineers. Many having experienced a major life change, or maybe just nomads at heart. Most take to the road as a means of escape, or for spiritual growth. Whatever the reasons, whenever you have so many people of varying personalities and backgrounds, there is bound to be conflict.

Haven’t we all experienced the sight of a big grill and blazing headlights in the “rearview”? Trucks running too fast, kicking up stones, cutting you off, or running into your lane? While many factors can contribute to erratic trucks, primarily wind. Many drivers today simply seem too aggressive or poorly trained for such a critical job. While the vast majority of drivers practice safety and courtesy, a few “bad apples” give the industry a bad name.

Please don’t condemn all truckers for the actions of a few “steering wheel holders”, these types tend to weed themselves out quickly. While “Truckers” will always be with us. Just practice defensive driving around trucks, give them plenty of room, and if you happen to see an aggressive, unsafe truck driver, don’t hesitate to report them. The rest of us want them off the road too!

Have a great ride!

About the Author…

Eric Lorence was a “long haul” truck driver for twelve years before leaving the industry to start various internet businesses and engage in other pursuits.
Visit his Home Page at ZENTRUCKING.COM

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