4 Interstate Travel Tips Every Trucker Needs
There are more than 3.36 million truck drivers in the United States and it’s no mystery why they love their job. For one thing, truck driving is incredibly flexible. A trucker can determine their own schedule and the available driving jobs.
There’s also the pay. They see very substantial paychecks, considering the work they do is transporting cargo.
If you’re looking to become a truck driver yourself, you’re likely interested in interstate travel tips to make your experience as smooth as possible. Keep reading for our top suggestions for any newbie truck driver on the go for the first time.
1. Prepare Your Rig for the Long Haul
If you’re a trucker, you know that interstate travel can be a long and grueling haul. But with a little preparation, you can make the trip a lot smoother and more enjoyable.
Make sure your truck is in good working order before you hit the road. This means performing all necessary maintenance and repairs and stocking up on supplies like oil, coolant, and tires.
Before you hit the road on your long-haul trucking trip, take some time to prepare your rig. This will help you avoid breakdowns, save on fuel, and get where you’re going safely and on time.
Inspect your trailer, secure dry van cargo and make sure that you have a balanced load. This will help to keep the load from moving around during transit.
2. Create a Packing List of Essentials
This list should include items such as a map of the area, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a fire extinguisher. Additionally, truckers should pack a few days’ worths of food and water, as well as a change of clothes.
Each trucker’s packing list will vary depending on their individual needs and preferences. However, by following these tips, every trucker can be sure to have a safe and successful interstate travel experience.
3. Map Out Your Routes and Plan For Rest Stops
Map out your routes before you start driving. This way, you’ll know exactly where you’re going and you won’t have to make any last-minute decisions. Take into account traffic patterns and plan your route accordingly.
Make sure to plan for rest stops. You may not be able to stop for a break as often as you’d like, but it’s important to take care of yourself. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest.
Follow the rules of the road. This seems like a no-brainer, but it’s important to obey all traffic laws. This will help you avoid accidents and tickets.
4. Make Sure You’re up to Date on Trucking Regulations
Know the hours of service regulations. These regulations dictate how many hours you can drive in a day, as well as how long you must rest between driving shifts.
Be aware of weight restrictions. Each state has different weight limits for trucks, so it is important to know the restrictions for the state you will be traveling in. Regulations are always changing, so it is important to stay abreast of any new developments.
Essential Interstate Travel Tips
If you’re a trucker who does a lot of interstate travel, then you need to know about these tips. They’ll help you avoid problems and make your trips go more smoothly. Make sure you follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to a successful interstate trip.
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