Month: January 2019

One of the most important working relationships you will have as a truck driver is with your dispatcher. For new drivers, getting this relationship right can be challenging. Your dispatcher is supposed to tell you where to go and when, but they may not always seem to be making the decisions that are right for the way you work or the driving conditions. Because the dispatcher will report the miles you drive—information that is then used to generate your paycheck—you don’t want feuds, drama, or misunderstandings. These tips will help new truck drivers avoid dispatcher conflicts while they adjust to the job.

 

Recognize What Dispatchers Do

Some new truckers struggle with their dispatchers because they really don’t understand their roles. Dispatchers are in charge of making sure that the trucking company can transport the maximum amount of goods in the fastest time possible for as little money as possible. This allows the company to be profitable. They schedule truck drivers based on this goal. Although they want their truckers to be able to meet the schedules that they set, their job isn’t to make sure the route you want to take suits your needs, but instead that it meets the goal of maximizing the company’s bottom line.

 

Confirm Job Details Before a Run

When your dispatcher gives you job, make sure you understand all of the details. Review the mileage, figure out who is responsible for paperwork, and discuss any obstacles that you think you might have. It will avoid conflicts later if you are both on the same page before the job begins.

 

Speak Up for Safety

If a dispatcher is giving you an unrealistic schedule that will compromise your safety, speak up. You should also avoid agreeing to a specific delivery date and instead confirm that you will do your best to get it there on time. When you need to speak up about your schedule, don’t argue. Keep your cool and work towards a solution that works for you both.

 

At Phoenix Truck Driving School at Fort Bliss, our experienced instructors will prepare you for all aspects of your new career. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a truck driver and earning your CDL in El Paso, call us at (877) 206-8344.

 

When you start your truck driving career, one thing that will become apparent almost immediately is that you will be spending a lot of time in your cab. Not only will you be sitting in it when you’re driving, but you’ll also likely be sleeping there, changing clothes, and relaxing between runs. However, traditional cabs are small, and many drivers find them uncomfortable, so a market has sprung up for luxury, custom cabs. These cabs have more space and lots of features that make life on the road a little easier. Could a custom cab be right for you? Here is what you need to know.

 

What exactly is a custom luxury cab?

The typical cab can only accommodate a twin mattress that is usually crammed in so tight that changing clothes is difficult and team driving is next to impossible. In the 1980s, big-berth trucks with large cabs became popular, but they fell out of favor because of their heavy weight and difficult management. The idea of having a bigger cab with plenty of space has come back into fashion, in the form of luxury cabs. These cabs have lots of space to spread out, and they make team driving more manageable. They feature plenty of home comforts, and because of changes in materials and design, these cabs are much more lightweight than those of the past.  

 

What is in these kinds of cabs?

Truck drivers can get luxury cabs designed to their specifications. However, most have a bed, seating area, computer desk, kitchenette with a microwave and electric stove, a bathroom, and even a shower. The design is similar to an RV, although smaller, and the features can be adapted to meet the driver’s preferences.

 

Who should consider a custom luxury cab?

Over-the-road drivers who are out for long stretches of time can save money in overhead costs, since they have so much of what they need on board. These cabs are also beneficial for team drivers. The extra living space makes team driving much more tenable, which in turn increases earning potential.

 

Phoenix Truck Driving School at Fort Bliss can help you get on the road to your new career in as little as eight weeks, plus, we offer extensive support to help you land your first job. Find out more about our El Paso truck driving school by calling (877) 206-8344.