In the light of the country's economic status, more and more people find jobs in trucking suitable to earn a steady income with added benefits not found with other jobs. If you're stuck behind a desk the whole day and want a change of scenery, why not enroll with Driver Solutions? Here are 5 reasons why you should:
1. With over 11, 200 positions added last February, employment opportunities continue to grow in the trucking industry. After your training, you can be sure that you'll have work and get hired.
2. In your first year, you can earn from $37,000 to $40,000.
3. If you want to be your own boss, here's where you can do just that. Your time is yours and you can even plan your route to arrive at your destination on time.
4. You get to travel to different places, go where you would never have thought of going and have opportunities to find new friends.
5. Companies also offer a comprehensive benefit package. This often includes paid vacation leaves, a retirement plan and medical and dental insurance.
When you are considering truck driver training school, it is easy to get excited about the freedom in your future career, the flexibility, and possibly a benefits package that you desperately need. However, while many new in student truck driving jobs realize that it is about the miles you log, not many consider that time management is a critical skill in this field. The more miles you log, the more you will make, but every mile costs time as well. Here is a two part series on how to learn effective time management on the road, so that you can manage your miles effectively:
Accept that you will be slow at first. Do not expect to make a ton in the beginning, because your body and mind need to condition to the experiences on your daily job. Give yourself that time to adjust or you will burn out quickly.
Learn the parking accommodations on the routes you will be taking. Parking in the evenings can be very frustrating to those signing on to entry level trucking jobs. Finding parking for the night after 6:00 P.M. can be difficult in some regions, know your areas well and how soon you need to park.
Research your traffic. Know your routes before you get on them, and you can avoid construction, delays, or rush hours. This may involve getting up earlier or adjusting your schedule, but this is an important time management tip that will save you grief down the road.
During the course of your basic truck driver training, you will have some time to spend on the range behind the wheel of a big rig. This portion of the CDL program allows you to apply what you have learned in the classroom sessions while learning the driving skills necessary to pass the CDL skills test.
The training ground for your practice runs will take place on a driving range near the trucking school facility. You will have access to different training trucks. These trucks are similar to what you will be operating after you begin an entry level trucking job.
To ensure you have the right tools to work with, the training trucks available are composed of the widely used trailers. They have 53-foot as well as 48-foot dry vans. These box trailers also come with special brakes intended for training use and 10-speed transmissions.
Learning how to drive big rigs is a challenge not everyone can easily manage. With the help of the tractors from Volvo, Freightliner and International, you can familiarize yourself with the different components and integral parts of the training trucks to master your driving skills.
Once you decide to become a truck driver by completing our online driver application, we will begin working for you right away to qualify you for a trucking job opportunity after training.
The trucking industry is composed of different types of truck driving jobs. OTR or over-the-road is one of them. Typically, starting off as a new driver you will be working an OTR position.
The first year of your trucking career is probably the most important. This is where you will really gain the skills that come from experience. It's also the time when you'll be able to adjust to the trucking lifesyle.
As an OTR driver, you will likely be out for a couple of weeks at a time - so you will have plenty of time to make the adjustment. You'll be getting paid for each mile the truck runs, so the earning potential in the first year can be up to $40,000. In addition to a solid first year earning potential, but putting in your time as an OTR driver you will get the experience needed to continue to advance your career as a professional truck driver.
While some want local trucking jobs right out of the gate, having realistic expectations and putting in your time will allow you to advance much further in your career.
If you're interested in checking out your options as a truck driver, complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent. We will work to qualify your application for a trucking job opportunity and answer any questions you might have.
As a new truck driver, it's only natural for your employer to have high expectations after you graduate and start your truck driver job with the company.
To meet and exceed those expectations, you need to fall back with confidence on your CDL training to keep your performance at par with the standards set by the truck company or fleet you're with. This is also one of the main reasons you should choose with care which school to pick to train with and help you achieve your commercial driver's license.
The video below further shows how excellent trucking training can give you an edge over your new colleagues and other truck drivers.
Learn more trucker tips and secrets by signing up for our email updates (see upper right of this blog) or complete our online driver application to take the first step on a trucking career.
In the past, there was a common belief that the use of mobile phones was the top reason for distracted driving during truck driving jobs. A recent report by the SmartDrive Distracted Driving Index (SDDI) revealed that for 2010, it came second to a new top reason for possible cause of road accidents or crashes.
The new number one is having an object in your hand while driving.
The SDDI used video cameras to record 34,466 truck drivers as they worked. The data showed that operating an mp3 player or even looking into some paperwork are high-risk distractions. Other causes for increased chances of road accidents are listed as follows:
44.5% Object in hand (PDAs, mp3 players, paperwork) 13.4% Talking on a handheld mobile phone 12.7% Beverage 10.1% Food 9.9% Smoking 9.1% Operating a handheld device 5.2% Talking/listening on a handsfree mobile phone 1% Map, Manifest or Navigation 0.6% Grooming/Personal hygiene
Responsible truck driving begins with disicpline. You learn this, among other things during your time at CDL training. The core values taught during time spent on basic driving skills and techniques are essential to mold you to become the best safe truck driver on the road.
If you're considering truck driving school, go ahead and complete our online driver application to get started. Completing the application will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options.
If you are investigating the career of trucking, you are wise to do some research ahead of time. It is not as easy as simply getting behind the wheel of a semi tractor trailer. While you are conducting your research, you may run across the term DOT physical. You will be required to pass the DOT physical before you get your CDL and begin a trucking career. Here’s what to expect from your DOT physical while in truck driver training school.
CDL license holders are required to hold a valid DOT record certified by a doctor. This is a physical exam that comes with proof in the form of a Medical Examiners Certificate. Formally known as the Department of Transportation Medical Examination, the DOT ensures your ability to be physically sound enough to safely operate and drive a commercial vehicle.
You must have 20/40 correctable vision in each eye. Glasses or contact lenses are permitted.
You cannot be a diabetic on needle-injected insulin; diabetes controlled through a diet or oral medication is permitted.
Your blood pressure must be under 160/100. Prescription medication to control blood pressure is permitted.
Your blood sugar level must be under 200.
Use of a Schedule 1 drug, amphetamine, narcotic or any other habit forming drug is not permitted.
If you have a current diagnosis of cardiac insufficiency, collapse, congestive cardiac failure or any other cardiovascular disease you will be required to provide the Medical Examiner with a stress test from within the last 12 months along with a release from your physician stating that you can drive a commercial motor vehicle without restrictions.
If you feel you meet these requirements and are ready to start your truck driver training - complete our online driver application now.
If you are considering a career in trucking, you have likely come across the term company sponsored training when researching trucking companies that offer CDL training. This method of getting CDL training is one of the most popular, because it is the most affordable to new people transitioning into this field.
Company sponsored training is a program where you can attend truck driver training school without the upfront tuition costs. This is a win win for those entering trucking school, and for the companies that are sponsoring them. Once you’ve completed your company sponsored training, you will work for the company that sponsored for a certain amount of time (with the Driver Solutions Progam it's 1 year). Meanwhile you get the training and experience needed to enter the industry and continue to advance as a new driver.
In order for trucking school that is company sponsored to be effective, you need to know what your responsibilities are when you go into it. Read and understand everything, because a company sponsored gig is not necessarily a free ticket to ride. You still need to pass your physicals, keep clean, and stay in the program
Researching trucking companies with CDL training and company sponsored programs will be your most valuable tool before you start your trucking career.
If you'd like to get started with the Driver Solutions Program, just complete our online application using the Apply Now button below.
Many studies indicate that the average American changes fields or industries at least five times in the course of their working life. But with the economy in the position it is in, not many Americans can leave work upon retirement and well, actually retire. This is a leading reason why more retirees today are entering truck driver training school. And for those that are seeking entry level trucking jobs, retirees are often leading candidates. Why?
One reason is proven responsibility and work performance. A driver that has been working at steady employment most of their adult life has demonstrated that they will be reliable to perform Class A truck driver jobs.
Retirees typically have more freedom than the average student attending trucking school. These drivers can literally be on the road for weeks and nobody in their family feels the crunch, because they’ve all left the nest already. Some retirees are even attending trucking school with their spouses and hitting the open road in team truck driving jobs and living a very happy. fullfilled life by doing so.
If you are thinking about a second career, the tax benefits, income benefits, and freedom and flexibility in retirement are all ahead of you in trucking.
Despite the fact that the economy has been sluggish at best in the past three years, the Bureau of Labor Stats in America is saying, “keep trucking”. While it is true that goods are not being produced and moved as quickly as they have in previous decades, the trucking industry still stands firm as a more effective means of transporting goods than any other transportation service. As well, trucking requires less security compliance and customs clearance than flight or sea transportation, and ultimately, costs companies less. There simply has never been a better time to begin researching truck driver training school.
Do you need more proof that the trucking industry is one of the most stable industries? There are few recession proof jobs out there, but truck driving jobs are one of the few that will always be around To come back from this recession, our economy IS demanding the movement of goods and services. This means new drivers are needed TODAY.
Another key factor in the increased demand for Class A truck driver jobs is in the retirement rate. Optimum health is required for this position, and so retirement in trucking does come earlier than average jobs. Simply put, it has never been a better time for students looking for a bright career in truck driving.
Go ahead and start your trucking career by completing our online driver application. This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver agent about your options in this booming industry.
There are many benefits to starting a truck driving career. Here are just 3 of the reasons that trucking companies with CDL training are so appealing to those looking for a change:
1. Good pay. Of course, money is a huge factor when deciding to pursure a career path. Once you complete truck driver training school you can possibly earn up to $40,000 in the first year. In addition to your base income, you may also be eligible for performance related bonuses, company bonuses, benefits, and a higher salary as you continue to gain experience. 2. Flexible hours and freedom. For many people, there's nothing better than the freedom that comes with being on the open road behind the wheel of a big rig. You won’t have a cubicle stifling you or a boss breathing down your neck. Dispatcher, yes, but you still have freedom and flexible hours.
3. Job security. Most trucking companies that offer CDL training will tell you truck driving provides some stability in your life that you may not have seen with other jobs. If you make an effort to stay on top of your game, stay clean, keep a safe driving record, and, well, do your job - there is no reason why you wouldn't be able to continue to advance. If you can do this, you will have a steady and successful career.
If you've been looking to start something new and have often thought about seeing the country as a truck driver, go ahead and complete our online driver application. This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options.
To acquire your CDL, you need to undergo a complete training program that will highlight not only your driving skills but also your quick decision making skills and practical sense.
Here are 3 areas of instruction typically included:
1. In the Classroom.
A review on laws for driving a commercial vehicle and other traffic rules and regulations is a must. Topics like pre-inspection, map-reading and how to plan your route are only some of the subjects to be discussed during classroom instruction.
2. At the Driver's Seat.
A detailed teaching on the inside of a tractor-trailer. This will include identifying parts and bits of the driver's area as well as its functions and how to operate them.
3. On the Road.
Manuevering a commercial vehicle does not come easily for everyone. Practice at the driving range of the CDL school will help you before you do street driving to test your capabilities and driving skills.
The quality of your CDL training can only be as valuable and relevant as how it was taught to you. This is the reason Driver Solutions works with only the best i best truck driving schools available Here are some qualities you'll find with the CDL instructors:
Helpful - These educators are willing to lend a hand on anything related to your training.
Stern, but not strict - Instructors are firm but kind when it comes to enforcing the rules and regulations of trucking school.
Attentive - The trainers have a keen eye for details. This is essential to notice what the students are doing right or wrong at critical moments while driving.
Below is a video that shows you what more to expect from your CDL instructors.
Sign up for free updates on trucking (see upper right of this blog) or fill out our online driver application to get started.
Any new type of training will take time to get used to. It's widely known that at the start, the adjustment period is often the most challenging for new student truck drivers. That being said, below are some links to articles that will help make truck driver training easier for you.
Below are 3 articles that cover some of the important aspects of your truck driver training. The list below includes: a preview of what the Driver Solutions training program entails, another blog post touching on the importance of CDL training, and finally, a first hand experience recounted by a student truck driver. He shares how trucking changed his life after being discharged from the Army due to medical reasons.
As the economy continues to show signs of improvement, more purchases are being made by consumers and businesses. Directly related to this trend is an increase in top trucking jobs offered by carriers across the country.
From the Indianapolis Star's List of Top Jobs for 2011, truck driving ranked No. 9 based on the annual job growth with the average salary of a truck driver being over $37,000 per year.
The U.S. Department of Labor also forsees a 9% increase in employement for truck driving up until 2018. Factors such as retirement of existing truck drivers over the age of 55 years old and the tightening up of road safety rules are developing this higher demand for more qualified truck drivers.
If you are looking to enter this industry, the best way to get started is by applying for company sponsored CDL training. Complete our online driver application by clicking on the Apply Now button below to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about the trucking opportunities in your area.
When it comes to CDL training, one of the most difficult things to learn for many inexperienced drivers is backing up the truck. Although they may not have any problem backing up their car or another automobile, backing up a truck is definitely a new ball game.
With our Trucking Tips contest, we were able to receive several pointers that can be helpful for anyone having troubles with backing up a truck. Here are just a few:
Remove all possible distractions before backing up (this includes turning off the radio)
G.O.A.L. (Get Out And Look) - don't be afraid to do this as many times as necessary
Assess your size and space if your truck will fit - this includes overhead space as well
PAM Transport is among the leading trucking companies looking for entry level drivers. To give you some background on the company, what they can offer and how to work for them, here are some good reads to check out:
The benefits of working with this trucking company are also indicated in all 3 of the above posts. You can also hear first hand from a PAM Transport Team Driver, by checking out this video interview.
If you want to begin right away, simply complete our online driver application form. We have Driver Agents available for you to speack with to help in choosing the best career choice for you at this particular time.
Driver Solutions has been collecting helpful tips intended to help new drivers just starting entry level trucking jobs. We've received tips from beginners all the way to veterans with over 20 years of driving experience. The pointers and friendly reminders are submitted by generous truckers based on their personal experiences.
The practical advice given cover various topics like how to back up your truck, the importance of Qualcomm, how to manage your days off and what a career in truck driving is all about. When you begin working as a truck driver, you'll soon find out that you will learn more and more each day. As one driver said, "the day I stop learning is the day I stop driving." These "real world experience" tips are just the ones we're looking for.
Take a moment to browse through the submitted tips and vote for your favorite ones by clicking on the Facebook "Like" button to help us choose the winning entry for a $50 Wal-Mart gift card.
Do you have a tip of your own? If so, just click on the graphic in this post to share your tip now.
For more information on truck driving jobs, sign up for free updates delivered to your inbox (see the upper right portion of this blog). You can also begin working toward a new career when you complete our online driver application.
If you are looking to become a professional truck driver, you're probably interested in employment that's stable, pays well and provides exeptional benefits. Among the most repected names in the trucking industry, USA Truck is one of the top companies you can be proud to work for. To learn more about USA Truck, here are a few article links:
Company Background - This blog post sheds light on the company's history and humble beginnings, the company's mission vision statement and a video that highlights the truck jobs offered.
Entry Level Trucking Jobs - This article previews the possible job offers or positions in the company for newly hired truck drivers as well as how much you can make when you work for the truck company.
You can take the first step on becoming part of the company's well-paid top truck drivers by completing our online driver application today.
One of the first steps in starting a trucking career is to obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The best way to go about learning the basic skills necessary to pass the CDL test is to find a trucking school that's right for you.
To give you a good idea on how to get started, here are links to 2 posts we've put together to help:
If you are interested in getting more information about the CDL schools and job opportunities within the Driver Solutions Network, simply complete our online application by clicking on the Apply Now button below. This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options.
In the light of the country's economic status, more and more people find jobs in trucking suitable to earn a steady income with added benefits not found with other jobs. If you're stuck behind a desk the whole day and want a change of scenery, why not enroll with Driver Solutions?
During the course of your basic 
In the past, there was a common belief that the use of mobile phones was the top reason for distracted driving during 
If you are considering a 
Despite the fact that the economy has been sluggish at best in the past three years, the Bureau of Labor Stats in America is saying, “keep trucking”. While it is true that goods are not being produced and moved as quickly as they have in previous decades, the trucking industry still stands firm as a more effective means of transporting goods than any other transportation service. As well, trucking requires less security compliance and customs clearance than flight or sea transportation, and ultimately, costs companies less. There simply has never been a better time to begin researching 
Any new type of training will take time to get used to. It's widely known that at the start, the adjustment period is often the most challenging for new student truck drivers. That being said, below are some links to articles that will help make truck driver training easier for you. 
As the economy continues to show signs of improvement, more purchases are being made by consumers and businesses. Directly related to this trend is an increase in 
When it comes to CDL training, one of the most difficult things to learn for many inexperienced drivers is backing up the truck. Although they may not have any problem backing up their car or another automobile, backing up a truck is definitely a new ball game.
If you are looking to become a professional truck driver, you're probably interested in employment that's stable, pays well and provides exeptional benefits. Among the most repected names in the trucking industry, 
One of the first steps in starting a trucking career is to obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The best way to go about learning the basic skills necessary to pass the CDL test is to find a trucking school that's right for you. 
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