Long haul driving can be an exciting and rewarding career, offering stunning sights while you enjoy lucrative and competitive compensation. Each year, thousands of new drivers enter the industry to explore and enjoy the many benefits of long-distance travel.
While long haul driving offers many benefits, the profession is not for everyone. Certain aspects of this rewarding career can be challenging, and some drivers may not be ready for them. Long hours and considerable time away from home are difficult, so serious commitment is the first requirement. On-time deliveries are the hallmark of the industry, so there is usually minimal opportunity to slow down and take it easy while in transit.
Here is everything you should know about long haul driving before signing up to become a driver.
Managing Long Haul Transport
- Keep Your Vehicle in Top Shape
No matter what you are hauling, you must ensure that your vehicle is in the best condition. Break-downs cause delays and will lengthen the trip, which can reduce your earnings over time. Invest in regular maintenance, and check the fluid levels, tires, and brakes before any trip. You should check these details daily to make sure no problems occur during your long haul trip.
- Map Out Your Routes in Advance
Part of being a long haul driver is researching your route. Knowing exactly where you are going and how to get there can reduce stress during the trip and help you plan better. Make sure to be aware of where more heavily inhabited areas are and when rush hour occurs. Aim to avoid hazards and make sure the roadway is safe for the type of vehicle you are driving.
- Become Weather Aware
Bad weather can dramatically affect your progress, therefore, you should always aim to be prepared for any situation. Make sure to research the weather forecast in all areas you will be traveling through, not just the destination. As the weather worsens, make sure to allow for extra time, as you may need to slow to a safer speed in slick conditions. Arriving at the destination slightly late will always be better than not arriving at all.
Allow for extra time during your trip in case you need to adjust your speed to the conditions. After all, you want to have full control of the vehicle and what you are transporting at all times.
- Be Prepared for Anything
Planning ahead and predicting what other drivers may do is an important condition of long haul driving. Make sure to leave plenty of extra space between you and the vehicle ahead, especially in cooler and wet weather. As larger trucks are more difficult to stop, you must be aware of all other vehicles around you. Allowing at least seven seconds of space ensures plenty of time to react in optimal conditions, but you will need to add substantially more distance when it is raining or snowing.
- Communication Skills
Staying in contact with dispatch is crucial as they can relay any information, such as delays to the destination. Keeping in touch with your family while on the road can help reduce your stress and add to your sense of security. Lapses in communication can be problematic and even create concern. Therefore, you should always be sure to contact dispatch and your family regularly throughout the long haul trip.
Classic Transport, a Leader in Long Distance Hauling
Classic Transport, headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, is a leader in cross-country transport, offering various driveaway, towaway, and multi-haul options across the United States and Canada.
Flexible while offering a wide range of opportunities for qualified drivers, Classic Transport provides an excellent opportunity to launch a new career.
Learn more about Classic Transport by visiting their website.
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