Adjusting to Life As a Long-Haul Trucker
Heavy haulage demands extra training and skill because it involves driving large vehicles loaded with heavy or oversized cargo under rather challenging conditions. If you are interested in taking up a career as a long-haul truck driver, you should know that getting your heavy haulage licence is just the first step towards becoming an experienced heavy haulage trucker. Everything else has to be learned on the job.
While it is impossible to anticipate everything that will happen on the job, the following tips can help you make a smooth integration into the job and make the most out of life on the road.
Try to normalise your life as much as possible.
The life of a long-haul trucker is like no other — you should be ready to spend long hours on the roads and probably less time at home. This means there's so much you can miss out on, including spending time with family, leisure activities, exercise and having proper meals. The good news is that you can fit all these things into your life if you plan your trips well.
It is always a good idea to plan your trips before setting out on any trip. Consider the distance involved and the expected time of delivery, and squeeze in time for exercise, meal stops and sleeping. These are all these that can impact your overall health if ignored. Remember, the money is no good if your health is compromised. If you have a family, set aside time to call and find out how they are doing, especially when you're gone for several days. This can help maintain positive relationships with family members.
Keep your financial house in order.
Compared to short-haul truckers, long-haul take home a heftier pay cheque, as they are often paid by the mile. However, it takes proper planning to ensure that your income translates into better living standards for your family. Budget for everything so you do not end up wasting the money you work so hard to earn. Also, make sure to save and invest to secure the future of your family—you wouldn't want them to suffer just because you spent everything you earned while working.
Like any other job, long-haul driving has its rewards and challenges. If you can work your way around these challenges, then you can have a successful career as a long-haul trucker and enjoy life on the road.
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