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How To Be A Top-Notch Trucker

by Krin Murphy

Being a trucker isn't easy. Unlike other career choices, it's more than just a job. It's a lifestyle. If you're going to survive, and more importantly, thrive in this new lifestyle, then there are a few tips and tricks of the trade you need to know.

Your Dispatcher is Your Lifeline

First things first, never underestimate the importance of your dispatcher. While it might seem like all this person does is sit in an office all day, he or she is actually vital to you and your success as a truck driver. To begin with, always be friendly and cordial with your dispatcher. Secondly, make sure your radio is always alert and listening to what the dispatcher has to say. 

The dispatcher is the one who will let you know when there's a "last minute load" to be picked up and about other possible opportunities, so you don't want to miss out on money-earning chances because you and the dispatcher don't get along or because you simply weren't listening.

Treat Yourself Well

Secondly, never forget that trucking is hard and demanding work. It requires you to be alert for long hours. As such, you need to treat your body well, especially when you're just starting out and your body is trying hard to adapt to this new schedule.

Make sure you're eating healthily- the temptation to grab fast food for every meal can be overwhelming if you don't watch it. Most importantly, get plenty of sleep, and don't be afraid to pull over for breaks as needed. Remember, your health doesn't just matter to you; it matters to every person you encounter on the road.

Be an Early Parker

As a truck driver, you can expect to spend a lot of your time at truck stops. This is likely where you'll fuel up, perform basic maintenance on your truck, take care of your log books, eat, and get some rest. What you need to understand, however, is that truck stops tend to fill up in the early evening hours, and finding a place to park and take care of business can be next to impossible.

As such, make sure that, when you need "truck stop time," you plan so that you can park at the stop earlier in the day. That way, you won't have to fight for a spot or pray that you make it to the next truck stop.

Planning, as you can see, goes a long way in every aspect of being a successful truck driver, but if you can keep these tips in mind, you should be just fine. Contact Ashton Transport Ltd hauling for more information.

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