Category: Truck Driving News

Are you looking for the right career? Trucking might be the industry that is the right fit for you. Becoming a truck driver offers a mix of competitive wages, adventure on the road, and scheduling flexibility that fits the needs of many people trying to settle on the right career path. If you’re frustrated with working jobs that aren’t leading you anywhere and seeking a career that fits with your goals, here are some of the reasons you could find your niche as a truck driver.

Competitive salaries and job security are par for the course for truckers.

Truck drivers are the backbone of nearly every other industry. Without truckers, the availability of goods and services would dry up within days across the country. The demand for truck drivers is constantly increasing, at the same time that fewer people are entering the field. There are a huge number of jobs available for truck drivers, and companies are willing to pay top dollar to get drivers behind the wheel. Many industries are downsizing and outsourcing, but as a truck driver, you can feel confident that your career path is secure.

You can travel the country and get paid while doing it.

Who says that you have to be stuck in an office to make a living? As a truck driver, your job is to be on the open road, often going from coast to coast as you haul goods. You will get to explore every part of the country while you’re getting paid. No two days will be the same, letting you experience the adventure of travel while you’re building your career.

You can build the exact career you want.

There is no single way to be a truck driver. You can choose to drive long hauls or short journeys. You can hit the road solo or be part of a driving team. You decide how, when, and where you want to drive, so your career always fits with your goals and your family’s needs.

Start your career as a truck driver today with DSW. Our Tucson truck driving company is looking for new and experienced drivers who are ready to experience our great pay and benefits. Find out more about our immediate openings by calling (888) 266-7534.

There is a buzz in the transport industry about autonomous vehicles and what their introduction might mean to truckers. Although there is a hype about driverless long-haul trailers, most people in the trucking industry believe that that future is just not realistic. Trucks need truck drivers, and supply chains need these human hands on the wheel. Here are some of the reasons that the invention of autonomous cars shouldn’t distract you from your career as a truck driver.

Automation is designed to assist, not replace.

Automation in the trucking industry can be assistive for drivers, but that isn’t the same thing as replacing them. For instance, automation can allow trucks to cover greater distances in a shorter amount of time by allowing the driver to rest while the truck takes over driving for a period of time. This feature allows drivers to deliver their loads more efficiently—and profitably—but it doesn’t get rid of the need for them to be in the vehicles. Automation represents an evolution rather than an elimination of the role of a truck driver.

The existence of technology doesn’t mean it will be used.

A favorite example of people in the trucking industry is aviation. The technology exists to allow planes to fly without pilots being on board, but no commercial flight takes off with fewer than two pilots in the cockpit. Combining human skill and technological advancement boosts safety and efficiency for airlines more than relying on just one or the other. The same is likely to hold true for trucking.

Public and political opinion is against it.

There are more than a million truckers, making it the single largest career field in the country. There is no will in the public or political arenas for disrupting the careers of such a significant group of workers. There are also serious concerns over the safety of autonomous trucks. Quite simply, people want truckers behind the wheel.

Launch your career in trucking by applying for a position at DSW. For more information about our career opportunities for truck drivers in Tucson, call (888) 266-7534.

Part of being a truck driver is getting an adequate amount of rest when you’re on the road. Many nights will be spent in the sleeper cab of your truck, and getting sleep isn’t optional—it’s a requirement for meeting your delivery schedule and staying within the legal limits for drivers. If you are struggling with getting restful sleep while you’re out on a job, these tips will help.

Block the Light

Light makes it difficult to fall asleep and can make it harder to stay asleep. Even when you are sleeping, you may not slip into the deep, restorative sleep you need to feel your best when there is light shining around you. A great way to get past this is getting a sleep mask to put over your eyes when it’s time to go to bed. With a mask, you won’t get distracted by the night no matter where you’ve stopped for rest. If your team drive, a sleep mask will even let you get restful sleep during the daytime while your co-driver takes the wheel.

Choose Your Location Wisely

Try to plan ahead for where you will sleep as much as possible, so you can pick a quiet place. Ideally, park somewhere away from heavy traffic, so that the vibrations won’t keep you awake. It’s a good idea to have earbuds handy for those occasions in which your options for a quiet place to park are limited.

Use a Mattress Pad

The bunks in sleeper cabs aren’t always designed for comfort. Adding a mattress pad can significantly increase the comfort and support you get from your bed so that you wake up feeling refreshed and without stiff joints.

At DSW, we’re invested in the success of our truck driving team, and as former drivers, we know what you need to live life on the road. To learn more about joining our truck driving company in Tucson, call (888) 266-7534.

One of the major perks of joining a commercial trucking company is that you have complete control over your “office.” There’s no boss looking over your shoulder, telling you to stop playing audio files in your cubicle. So indulge yourself by checking out these entertaining podcasts the next time you hit the open road.

Sawbones: A Marital Tour of Misguided Medicine

As the name suggests, Sawbones is presented by a couple: Dr. Sydnee McElroy and her husband, Justin. The duo has great chemistry together, offering entertaining facts on the history of medicine and all of its weirdness. Listen to a few of their shows, and you’re likely to get hooked on them. Before you know it, you’ll be able to hold your own in conversations about everything from bezoars to Appalachian folk medicine.

Stuff You Missed in History Class

If you love history, or you’re just curious about that time Boston was hit by a flood of molasses, you’ll enjoy the Stuff You Missed in History Class podcast. There are more than 800 episodes, ranging from 20 to 40 minutes, and they’ll definitely make time go by faster while you’re hauling freight. Plus, some of the podcasts feature information about historical landmarks and museums—some of which you might find yourself driving past.

The NoSleep Podcast

The NoSleep Podcast is hosted by David Cummings and contributed to by a slew of voice-acting talent. As you might have guessed from the name, this podcast exclusively broadcasts horror stories to keep you wide-eyed and alert on the open road. Every episode features five brilliantly written and produced stories.

Radiolab

If you’re the type of person who’s interested in just about everything, then Radiolab is definitely the right podcast for you. It’s a smorgasbord of science, history, philosophy, politics, and so much more. Radiolab covers every topic under the sun, from the tantalizing possibilities of plant intelligence to the storied history of football.

 

DSW Drivers is a family-focused trucking company in Tucson, managed by former drivers who know what it’s like to haul freight. Call (888) 266-7534 to find out about our current employment opportunities and our unbeatable job perks.

The U.S. is a massive country. Its sheer size is difficult to grasp until you’ve driven all over it. As a professional big rig operator, you’ll have more opportunities than most people to see the best of what America has to offer. Your trucking company might send you on any of these fantastic drives.

Red Rock Scenic Byway in Arizona

This byway takes you through the jaw-dropping scenery of Sedona, Arizona. It’s only 7.5 miles long, but it’s guaranteed to be among the most thrilling short drives of your life. Drive slow to take in the breathtaking views of red rock formations, which are often referred to as a museum without walls.

Pacific Coast Highway in California

The Pacific Coast Highway stretches for over 100 miles from Carmel to Morro Bay. It’s a designated All-American Road and a favorite of motorcyclists and truckers alike. Drive through the Carmel Highlands, which feature impressive granite cliffs perched above the Pacific, and head to Big Sur. Enjoy the storied redwoods and the mountains alongside the sea.

Gold Belt Scenic Highway in Colorado

There is no shortage of scenic drives in Colorado, but one of the most famous is the Gold Belt Scenic Highway. It takes you straight through Colorado’s gold country. You’ll encounter plenty of photo-worthy scenes on this byway, including Pikes Peak, the Royal Gorge, and the Phantom Canyon. This drive is particularly beautiful during the fall when the foliage turns brilliant colors of red and gold.

State Route 197 in Georgia

This beautiful, 30-mile stretch of road in the Appalachian foothills extends from Clarksville in the south up toward the Lookout Mountain Highway (Scenic Highway 76). Do keep your speed in check, as this byway features some twists and turns. Enjoy the beauty of the lakes and hills, and keep an eye out for the gorgeous waterfalls in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Here at DSW Drivers, we’re committed to the success of each individual driver and owner-operator. Our trucking company in Tucson offers reliable home time, competitive pay, and tuition reimbursement. Call (888) 266-7534.

America’s economy depends on truck drivers to haul food to supermarkets, medical supplies to hospitals, and countless other consumables all over the country. Truck driving can be a rewarding career, but it does come with some drawbacks—like time spent away from home. That’s why to build a long and lucrative career in this industry, it’s essential to work for a trucking company that can give you plenty of home time.

The time you spend at home is crucial for your physical health.

Veteran truck drivers have lots of little tricks for life on the road. They know where to find the healthiest diners, how to get enough sleep in a berth, and how to stay physically active despite a sedentary job. But even though it’s possible to live a healthy lifestyle on the road, it’s far easier to do so at home. There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal and the feeling of sleeping in one’s own bed.

Generous home time policies keep truckers in the industry.

One of the most common reasons why experienced truckers leave the industry is the amount of time they spend away from home. As the years’ pass, it can get harder to justify leaving one’s loved ones behind for days or even weeks at a time. And although it’s easier than ever to stay in touch with technology, video conferencing just can’t replace a face-to-face conversation. Home time should be among your top considerations when choosing a trucking company to work for. A generous home time policy will encourage you to cultivate a long and prosperous career.

 

DSW is a small company managed by former truck drivers, and because of this, we are keenly aware of the importance of home time in this industry. Our Tucson trucking company offers a highly competitive home time policy, as well as trucker-friendly rider and pet policies to help you maintain a high quality of life. Call us today at (888) 266-7534.

 

Truckers often start out working for large companies and driving big rigs they don’t own. But there’s a unique opportunity in this industry to be your own boss without actually starting your own trucking company. As an owner-operator, you’ll purchase or lease-to-own your own equipment. You’ll enjoy the freedom of being your own boss, and you’ll essentially be able to set your own paycheck.

Spend some time researching the right equipment for you.

The equipment you’ll need is heavily dependent upon the type of driving you to want to do. A flatbed won’t do for hauling livestock, for instance. Consider whether you’ll be driving intrastate or interstate. Intrastate drivers can get by with a small cab, while interstate drivers will want to invest in a comfortable, roomy sleeper berth. Fuel efficiency is also a major consideration, particularly for interstate drivers.

Create a comprehensive budget.

Every trucking owner-operator needs to make a budget. Over time, you’ll refine it as you get a better sense of your operating costs and income fluctuations. Remember to develop your budget with an eye toward weathering the lean times. Set aside money in a savings account every time you get paid. Don’t skimp on insurance, either. As an owner-operator, you absolutely need disability insurance. And if you have dependents or a spouse, you should get life insurance.

Develop smart driving habits.

Now that you’re paying for your own fuel as an owner-operator, it’s in your best interest to develop fuel-efficient driving habits. Consider your operating cost per mile. It’s likely that driving a little slower will save enough fuel to make the extra driving time worth it. Pay careful attention to your pre-trip and post-trip inspections. As soon as you notice any potential problems, get them fixed. Fixing mechanical issues right away can help prevent major repair bills later on.

At DSW, we’re known for our competitive pay, generous reimbursements, and equipment lease programs for truckers who would like to become owner-operators. Give us a call today at (888) 266-7534 to find out for yourself why our Tucson trucking company is so popular among drivers.

Eating healthy when you’re on the road is a challenge for truck drivers. Many of the standard healthy eating tips people give just aren’t compatible with what life is really like when you’re driving a truck, which can make you feel like you don’t have a choice but to have another fast food meal. The good news is that there are ways you can adopt a healthier diet that is actually convenient for the way you work. Try this advice to maintain a healthy eating plan while you’re driving.

Stock Your Cab
If you need to depend on gas stations and truck stops for every snack, you will struggle to find anything healthy. Keep your cab stocked with portable, healthy foods you can grab when you’re hungry, like whole fruits, carrots, hardboiled eggs, and peanut butter. A small cooler can keep perishable items chilled throughout the day. Keeping healthy items like these in your cab will stop you from grabbing a candy bar when you’re in a rush and need a snack. They will also keep you satisfied between meals so that you can keep an eye on portion control.

Eat Every Few Hours
Three meals a day is not always the healthiest choice for truckers. Eating small meals every few hours will help you keep your blood sugar steady and avoid fatigue and hunger. It could also help you cut back on calories since you won’t be tempted to overeat because you’re starving.

Rethink Your Meal Order
When you stop for a meal on the go, you’ll find that most places have healthy options if you’re careful about how you put your meal together. For instance, get a small hamburger and a side salad when you’re at a fast-food restaurant instead of fries and a mega burger. Ditch soda for water to save countless calories and grams of sugar. Make small changes and build on them to develop healthier habits.

DSW is committed to helping truckers make the most of their careers and their lives, with ample job options and generous time off. Get started on your career in the trucking industry by calling our Tucson trucking company at (888) 266-7534.