Truck driving is a career that appeals to many people. There is something alluring about making a living from hitting the open road, spending long periods behind the wheel, and exploring new places. Truck driving does not have to remain a fantasy as it is a career that can be relatively easy to start and there is currently a shortage of workers. There are many benefits to a career as a truck driver, but there are also a few drawbacks and considerations that you need to be aware of. This post will look at a few of the main things to be aware of, including both the benefits and drawbacks of a career in trucking.
There Is a Shortage Right Now
As mentioned above, there is currently a truck driver shortage in the US (and many countries around the world). This means that now could be a good time to start as you can find a lot of work and benefit from job security, but you must also ask yourself why there is a shortage. There is not one reason for this, but many state that they left the trucking industry due to working conditions, so this is something that you need to be wary of.
You Can Be Your Own Boss
Many truck drivers like to set up their own businesses so that they can be their own bosses. This can be a great way to take control of your truck driving career and provides a level of flexibility that is hard to match. For those that do not want to work for someone else, you might find starting your own trucking business to be incredibly rewarding and life changing. Additionally, it is not too challenging to start your own trucking business, unlike many other types of businesses.
It Can Be Demanding
Although you can be your own boss and there is a level of flexibility, you will find that truck driving can also be hugely demanding. To make a good amount of money, you will need to take on as much work as possible, and this will involve having to meet tight deadlines. This can be difficult, which is why you should never take on more than you can handle and ensure that you are using the best route planning software, so that you can be as efficient as possible each day.
The Open Road Can Be Therapeutic
If you like driving, you should find the open road to be incredibly cathartic. There is something special about hitting the open road by yourself and it can provide you with the opportunity to enjoy precious alone time. This can be therapeutic, and it is one of the most appealing parts of being a truck driver for many people.
The Work Can Be Lonely
Although the open road can be cathartic and alone time can be beneficial, you will find that there is a fine line and sometimes the work can be lonely. You will spend most of your time behind the wheel by yourself, and you might have to be away from home when making long deliveries. This means that the work can be lonely and isolating, so you need to be wary of this, and ensure that you are spending plenty of time with loved ones in your free time.
You Can Find Shipping Work on Load Boards
One of the best aspects of trucking these days is that it is easier than ever to find shipping work. You can browse available truck loads on load boards, which allows you to find a steady stream of work and pick and choose what works for you. This is particularly helpful when you are just getting started and looking to find work, as you can find continuous work and build up your experience levels.
You Need to Prioritize Your Wellbeing
You will find that many new truck drivers struggle in the first year or so and this is because they do not know how to look after themselves. When you spend long periods on the road away from home and must make tight deadlines, you will find that your well-being can take a backseat, but this is dangerous. You need to make sure that you maintain a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and take regular breaks from driving. You also need to lead a healthy lifestyle in your free time, so that you can recover, recharge, and enjoy your time off. It can take some getting used to, but this will be key for long-term success and enjoying your work.
The Work Can Be Engaging
Although truck drivers spend a lot of time driving on highways, you will find that the work can still be engaging. This is because you are constantly having to focus – you will be exploring new places and meeting new people along the way. If you are the type of person that struggles in an office environment, you might find trucking to be an improvement because you are out and about each day and every job will be different.
Truck Driving Is Different
It is also important to note that driving a truck is a lot different from driving a regular vehicle. Even if you are a confident and competent driver, you might find it hard to adjust to trucking, particularly when it comes to reversing and parking. Therefore, it is important to develop your truck driving skills before you get started, so that you can feel confident behind the wheel while on the job.
These are a few of the main things to be aware of if you are thinking about starting work as a truck driver. It is a career that is often romanticized and, while there are certainly many benefits to it, you will find that there are drawbacks, and it is a line of work that is not well-suited to everyone. However, as long as you consider the above advice, you’ll be able to make an informed decision.
