Truck drivers are what keep our country together. They are hard-working and some often sacrifice family and home time, to the open road. There are many different levels of truck drivers, however, they are certainly a proud breed, as they should be. When you are with a truck driver you are apart of the trucking family and will notice that they are always talking about their trucks. And, if they are an owner/operator, they take great pride in their truck and want it to be something special and unique to them.
In the world of truck driving, you get to see the entire country and get to experience life in a completely different manner than those in cubicles working 9-5. They are usually up early and getting a head start of the traffic and always paying attention to the weather. Many truck drivers don't like to take breaks or even stop, but just keep going to get to their destination. However, a more healthy habit is to stop everyone a few hours and get out and stretch your legs. This is better for your back as well.
First Year of Trucking
The first year of a truck driver is the worst. This is when you are just trying to learn the ropes. The other truckers will make fun of you and they will be watching you from afar. But, don't let that discourage you from getting into this amazing career and earning your stripes. Prove to them that you too can be a truck driver and remember they were new at one time too. For those veteran truck drivers, try to remember your first year and help a guy out. Learning how to tarp and tie-down loads take practice to get it down as some of the old-timers have it.
Always Carry a Diesel Card
Always carry a diesel gas card. Most truck drivers have a diesel gas card that they carry on them. And, some leave one hidden in the truck somewhere. Gas is important for your job. If you get somewhere without your wallet you are in some serious trouble. Carrying a diesel gas card on you and also in the truck will give you two chances of having one on you at all times while driving. This doesn't work with everyone as everyone isn't always driving the same truck day in and day out. So, getting a card that you can put on your personal set of keys or something alike would also work to ensure you didn't get somewhere and run out of gas.
Diesel gas cards are a great gift as well. If you have a trucker in your life get them some gas cards to carry on them. This ensures that they will not run out of gas on the open road and will be able to return home. Many employers will reimburse gas as well. Check out https://www.flyersenergy.com/diesel-gas-card/ for options.
The trucking industry has certainly changed from the old days of paper logs. But, the pride in a truck driver has remained the same.