Adjusting to life as a first year over-the-road truck driver can be tricky. You’ll likely be trying out different things to see what leaves you feeling productive and rested throughout the day, but there are a few core skills that everyone new to truck driving in San Antonio, TX should master. Bay and Bay Transportation’s veteran over-the-road truck drivers are experts at more than just driving, and if you want to succeed in the world of OTR driving, it’s worth making an effort beyond the wheel.
Prepare for your first hauls like you’d prepare for a camping trip. And yes, that might mean packing a sleeping bag. You’ll want toiletries, some comfort items, clean clothes, maps, and pretty much whatever else you think you’d need to survive in the woods. As you get into a rhythm you might find that you’ve overprepared. There’ll be plenty of resources on the road that make some of your packing feel unnecessary, but you’ll be happy to have that extra pillow or blanket when you’re in the middle of a long run.
Learn to communicate effectively in new ways. Being an over-the-road trucker and away from home for days at a time can make you feel isolated. The good news is that professional trucking has benefited from the advent of the internet age. Keep a phone handy for calls home, and take advantage of online forums with other over-the-road truck drivers. If you’re struggling there’s a good chance someone online has encountered similar issues, and if you’re lucky, they’ll have some very relevant truck driving advice. Having social outlets is a great way to maintain a community, even if you’re living the solo truck driver life.
Treat your body and mind with care. This is a good rule regardless of your career choices, but it’s especially vital as an over-the-road truck driver. You won’t always be familiar with the area you’re in, and feeling sick in a strange place can be exhausting. If you find yourself lagging, be proactive. It might be a cold or stress-related burn-out. Stay hydrated, keep semi-regular sleep hours, and take mental breaks throughout the day if you find your focus wandering. Truck driving isn’t an especially brutal career, but like any profession, it can tear you down if you don’t know how to build yourself up. Take the steps you need to be safe and healthy on the road.
If you’re interested in truck driving professionally or are ready to take your first step into the world as an over-the-road trucker, contact Bay and Bay Transportation for details on how to make your vision a reality. Skilled San Antonio, TX drivers looking for opportunities can contact us at (888) 801-3026 or visit our website today.