The trucking industry has been the foundation of the economy for a long time. The main responsibility of those in the trucking industry, mainly truck drivers, is to ensure that goods are transported from factories to stores and homes across the country.
Basically, truck drivers are the ones to thank for having any goods in stock in your favorite shopping mall or local supermarket.
As e-commerce continues to grow and consumer demands rise, the need for professional truck drivers and other roles in the industry has never been higher. Many are contemplating a career in the trucking industry as it’s a great way to earn a good salary quickly. But it’s not an easy job. Many have the misconception that truck drivers only sit behind the wheel, listening to some nice music and going about their day peacefully.
If you’re considering a career change or simply looking for a stable job with good earning potential, trucking might seem like an attractive option. But before you hit the road, there are some important things you should know about working in this fast-paced, demanding field.
Let’s take a look together and see what makes career in the trucking industry demanding and why this isn’t the best option for everyone.
Why jobs in the trucking industry are becoming more popular?
In recent years, the popularity of trucking jobs has risen. One major reason is the ongoing shortage of truck drivers. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the industry has been grappling with a significant driver shortage for several years, creating strong demand for new hires.
Companies are offering better pay, sign-on bonuses, and improved benefits to attract and retain drivers. However, are these incentives really enough to get people to give truck driving a chance?
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of supply chains and the essential role that truckers play. Many people realized that trucking jobs offer a level of job security that some other industries cannot guarantee, even during uncertain times.
Another reason for the growing interest is the flexibility that trucking can offer. Long-haul drivers often have the opportunity to travel across the country, experience different places, and enjoy a unique sense of independence compared to traditional 9-to-5 jobs.
Meanwhile, regional and local trucking positions allow for more predictable hours and regular home time, appealing to those who value work-life balance.
3 Things You Need to Know Before Starting Career in the Trucking Industry
As said, while a career in the trucking industry can offer numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. Here’s what you should consider before stepping into the driver’s seat.
1. Safety is paramount
One of the most critical aspects of being a truck driver is understanding the importance of safety. Trucking is a physically demanding and often risky profession. Trucks are involved in a significant number of traffic accidents each year. Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, even minor mistakes can lead to serious accidents.
Proper training, adherence to regulations, and a commitment to defensive driving are essential to staying safe on the road. Truck drivers must remain vigilant, avoid distractions, and manage fatigue carefully. Many accidents happen because drivers push themselves too hard to meet tight delivery deadlines, leading to drowsy driving. It’s often trucking companies that enforce these tight deadlines that lead to accidents.
In such situations, having a truck accident attorney by your side is a must, as you won’t be able to go through the legal process all alone. Determining liability is a long process and involves many steps.
2. Lifestyle changes are inevitable
Trucking is a career that basically dictates your lifestyle. Long-haul drivers, in particular, can spend days or even weeks away from home.
This can be challenging for those with families or little children. Being prepared for extended periods on the road and managing homesickness come with the job. You need to get used to video chats and spending a lot of time in virtual communication.
Additionally, irregular schedules, sleeping in the truck, and eating on the go can affect both mental and physical health. Successful truckers find ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise, proper nutrition, and mental health practices even while on the move.
3. Regulations and paperwork
Truck drivers are subject to numerous regulations designed to ensure safety and accountability. Each state has its own set of regulations. The regulations may be completely different in Utah than those in Arizona, for instance.
You’ll need to maintain accurate logs of your driving hours, follow strict rules about how long you can drive each day, and complete inspections of your vehicle regularly.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in pricey fines or even criminal charges in serious cases. Staying organized and detail-oriented is a must for anyone considering a career in trucking.
The bottom line: Truck driving as a career
Still think trucking is an easy job? Choosing a career in the trucking industry can be a good option for those who value independence, steady income, and the chance to play a critical role in the economy.
However, it’s not a career to jump into lightly. Trucking demands a strong commitment to safety, an adaptable lifestyle. You also need to be an organized person who will diligently keep track of all the necessary paperwork and keep up with the state’s regulations.
The good news is that for those who are prepared to meet these challenges, trucking offers not only financial stability but also a unique way of life that few other careers can match.
Whether you are drawn by the open road, the promise of adventure, or the security of a stable job, make sure you do your homework and prepare yourself for the realities of the profession.
Trucking can be a good option for those looking to earn good money and who don’t mind being isolated for longer periods. So, before you apply for a trucking job, think whether it’s a career suitable for you and whether you can handle everything that comes with it.
