VWB Blog By 2030, it is projected that there will be an additional 122,100 truck driving jobs.
Are you considering taking one of these jobs? It can be a great option for a career, but it can also be intimidating. How do you prepare to be driving long-hauls, how do you make sure you don’t forget to pack anything?
Don’t worry! In this post, we’ll go over the truck driver essentials that you need to get into the job and to take with you once you begin.
Keep reading to learn more!
1. All Certifications
One of the very first things you’ll need is to get your commercial driver’s license (CDL). You can either go to a private CDL school for this or find one that’s sponsored by a large trucking company.
That’s not all you’ll need, though. Depending on the types of materials you plan on transporting you may need extra training. For example, those who transport hazardous materials will need specific training to be sure they’re in compliance with RCRA regulations.
If you need more training in this particular area, getting RCRA refresher training is a good idea.
2. The Right Clothes
Once you’re starting your truck driving career and it’s time to pack, you need to be sure to bring the right clothes. Be sure to include clothing that’s comfortable to wear while sitting and driving for potentially long stretches of time.
You’ll also need comfortable off-duty clothes to relax in when you’re taking your mandated rests. Don’t forget the safety gear either. You should have things like work boots, work gloves, a hard hat, safety glasses, and anything else you may need to do your job safely.
3. Tool Box
When you’re driving for long stretches, having a toolbox along with you is crucial. You never know when something is going to break, and if you can fix it without needing to wait for a tow or a mechanic it can save you time and frustration.
Some tools you should consider keeping with you are an air pressure gauge, a flashlight, various sized wrenches, and replacement air brake hoses/coils.
4. Hygiene Essentials
If you’re doing long overnight hauls, you don’t want to forget your hygiene products. Truck driving is not always the most comfortable job and not having a toothbrush, deodorant, or shampoo available can make it worse.
5. Earplugs
As a truck driver, you will likely end up parking your truck to sleep in some potentially noisy places. But it is so important for truck drivers to be well-rested and alert when they’re driving. Get a pair of earplugs to help you sleep soundly and keep yourself and others safe.
Earplugs are also helpful if you wind up delivering to a place where there is a lot of loud heavy machinery, you don’t want to damage your hearing.
Consider Getting Into Truck Driving Today
Truck driving is a great career, but you’ll be much happier with it if you’re prepared when going on long hauls. Be sure to include these essentials when you pack and you’ll be on your way to a long truck driving career.
Do you know of any cool gadgets for truck drivers? If so, let us know in the comments!