Category: Truck Driving News

A truck driving career offers many unique benefits, including the opportunity to explore new destinations and live an independent lifestyle. Prior to pursuing a trucking career, it’s important to evaluate your employment and lifestyle goals to determine whether truck driving is right for you. While many find trucking an enjoyable and exciting career path, there are some factors you should consider before making your final decision.

Travel

If you enjoy life on the road and don’t feel the need to come home to the same place every night, truck driving could be an excellent career choice for you. You should also consider that you may have only a few days at a time to spend at home before you must leave again. While many truckers enjoy this on-the-go lifestyle, it is something to consider before you pursue your trucking career.

Life on the Road

Long periods of time spent away from home also mean long periods of time spent without the conveniences of home. Truckers often shower at truck stops and sleep in designated areas in their cab. Meals and exercise may require planning ahead if you have dietary or health restrictions. It is important to consider whether you will be happy living this type of lifestyle, or whether it will be more of a challenge than you prefer.

Solitude

In most cases, trucking is a solitary career. While trucking teams do exist, many truckers prefer to work on their own. Thus, you should feel comfortable spending long stretches of time by yourself while on the road. Although you will meet new people at rest stops and truck stops, keep in mind that you may go for long stretches of time without seeing a familiar face. If this idea does not appeal to you, it may be best to consider a different type of career.

If you’re ready to pursue a career in trucking, DSW Drivers of Tucson is offering rewarding career opportunities for Southwest drivers. Contact us today to discuss Tucson truck driving jobs by calling 1 (888) 266-7534 or clicking on our website.

Whether you are a new driver or a seasoned one, choosing a trucking company is an important decision that will impact every aspect of your career. To find the right trucking company for your needs, you will first need to evaluate your short- and long-term driving and employment preferences. Once you have decided on your preferences, explore the options each company can offer you to find the best fit for your trucking career.

Advancement Options

Especially if you are new to trucking, your driving options may be more limited at first. Talk to potential employers about their experience requirements and the options open to new truckers. If you plan to stay in trucking as a long-term career, there are other factors to consider when selecting the right company. You want to work for a company that will let your career grow as you gain more experience in trucking. If you are interested in advancing your career in the future or pursuing specialized trucking options, discuss these interests with your potential employers as well to find a business that will support your career goals.

Routes and Time Away from Home

Two of the most influential factors in a trucker’s daily life are his route and the time spent away from home. Some truckers prefer a regular schedule or route, while others are comfortable with a mixed schedule that changes more often. Before searching for a trucking company, evaluate your own preferences regarding routes, miles run, and time you’d like to spend on the road. Determine your sticking points and the areas where you’re willing to compromise, then discuss these options with potential employers. Find out what you can expect on a day-to-day basis so you won’t be surprised or disappointed once you sign on.

DSW Arizona offers weekly pay, direct deposit of paychecks, and tuition reimbursement for recent CDL graduates in Tucson. If you would like to find out more about advancing your truck driving career as part of our fleet, please call (888) 266-7534 or contact us online today!

An owner/operator truck driver is an independent driver that contracts out to businesses for his service. Rather than working for a trucking company, you are your own boss when you become an owner/operator. If you are considering owning and operating your own truck, learning the steps involved can help you decide if this type of trucking career is right for you.

 

Consider Your Goals

One of the most important steps you should take before becoming an owner/operator is evaluating your personal and career goals. Do you plan to drive your truck for decades, or is truck driving a temporary career choice? Owner/operators are most often truck drivers who plan to stay in the business for life. If you are planning to change careers in the near future, you will be better off working for a trucking company until that time comes. Additionally, do you have a family you want to see every weekend, or can you spend days or weeks away from home while operating your truck? As an owner/operator, you may need to sacrifice time at home in order to make a profit. If you are concerned about getting home as often as possible, becoming an owner/operator may not be the right choice for you.

Consider Your Options

Even as an owner/operator, you have the option of working with a trucking company rather than operating your truck completely independently. If you like making all the calls, you prefer working on your own to determine the contracts, hours, and miles you want. Alternatively, leasing your services to a carrier can hold benefits as well. You may be able to obtain a more consistent schedule and system of routes in addition to receiving fleet rates on your trucking insurance.

Whether you are interested in working for a trucking company or becoming your own boss as an owner/operator, DSW Arizona can help. We are a driver-friendly trucking company committed to providing rewarding career opportunities to truck drivers in Phoenix and Tucson. Check out our blog for more trucking news and tips or call (888) 266-7534 to reach us today.

Many people are surprised to learn that truck driving is actually a fairly hazardous career. Drivers undergo extensive CDL training to respond to countless road conditions, and they are held to a higher standard of responsibility than other drivers. Truck safety is a crucial skill that is developed through hours of experience on the road, but there are a few simple safety tips that can help you minimize on-the-job risks.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Vehicle maintenance is a good idea for anyone with a car, but it’s a must for commercial drivers. Carriers are responsible for maintaining their own fleet, but drivers are still required to maintain maintenance logs and to examine their trucks on the road. In general, the brakes, tires, and lights are the parts that are most prone to wear and tear. Also, be sure to double-check the connections when hauling a trailer.

Drive Defensively

You can’t account for other drivers’ actions, but you may be held accountable for delays or property damage in the event of an accident. Drive defensively by always signaling before turns, scanning for merges and potential road hazards well ahead of time, and by keeping the driver’s seat as free of distractions a possible. Other drivers don’t always know when they’re in your “no zone,” so always take the time to double-check.

Help Others, Help Yourself

Providing support to other drivers is as much as a responsibility of professional drivers as basic road safety. If your schedule allows, take the time to help stranded drivers, respond to distress calls, and notify other drivers of dangerous conditions.

Here at DSW Drivers, we work closely with our drivers to provide flexible scheduling, fair wages, and clear opportunities for advancement. As a family-owned business and Tucson’s largest over the road trucking company, we have the resources and experience to provide a rewarding career path as a professional driver. Follow the link or call 888-266-7534 today to learn more about our job opportunities in Tucson and Phoenix.

 

Truck drivers are in high demand in a number of markets, and that trend is projected to grow as the demand for goods increases over the next several years. Flexible scheduling, relatively fast training, and the opportunity to develop a lifelong marketable skill are just a few of the perks of earning your CDL license and driving professionally. Below is a closer look at some of the major perks of becoming a truck driver.

Fast Training

Truck driving is one of the few career paths that can provide a competitive salary with a high school diploma or GED. Drivers are required to pass a CDL license test, and many companies also require formal training through an accredited instruction. CDL training can typically be completed in as little as 2 weeks, including over the road clock hours and instruction from seasoned drivers.

Flexible Scheduling

With the right carrier, you can have a flexible schedule without sacrificing home time. The DSW

Arizona rider policy even allows you to bring a companion on the road as soon as you drive for us. Our managers can also with you to explore your career options for solo, team, O/O, and mentor opportunities. You’ll also be eligible for local positions at HDS Professional Driver Services after a year of service.

Unlimited Opportunity

Have you ever wanted to wake up in Tucson and find yourself in Boston? If you’ve got some wanderlust, long haul jobs can provide a break from Arizona traffic. In addition to getting paid while you travel the country, DSW also offers several benefits, including vacation pay, health and dental insurance, a 401(k), vacation pay, and tuition reimbursement.

If you are looking for a stable career with room for growth, contact DSW Arizona at 888-266-7534 today. We have been serving the Tucson and Phoenix areas for more than 20 years, and we take pride in our success as a driver-friendly company.

It is estimated that 86 percent of truck drivers are overweight or obese. The trucking lifestyle makes it very hard for one to be fit. Truck drivers work long hours and spend a lot of time sitting. They also have access to unhealthy foods at trucking stops. The good news is that there are several things that you can do to keep yourself in shape while you are on the road. Below are some fitness tips for truckers:

Walk Around

Walking is one of the simplest exercises that you can do. You should consider walking during your breaks at a truck stop. One of the many great things about walking is that you do not need any special equipment to do it. You do not even have to do a lot of walking to reap the benefits. You can reap major benefits just by walking the length of your 20 to 25 times. Walking is great, but if you want to burn even more calories, then you should consider running.

Jumping Jacks

Jumping jacks are another exercise that you can do while you are at a trucking stop. You do not need any equipment for this exercise. You can burn over 200 calories in less than 30 minutes by performing jumping jacks.

Core Contractions

You can do core contractions without even leaving your driver’s seat. It is very simple to do this exercise. All you will need to do is pull your spine to your belly button. Hold it for five seconds. Release and repeat this exercise at least 10 times. Ideally, you will want to two sets.

Staying fit on the road is not impossible. Walking, jumping jacks and core contractions are just a few of the many exercises that you can do while you are at a trucking stop. If you are looking for a great trucking company, then you should consider contacting Tucson truck driving company DSW Drivers. Call us today at 1-888-266-7534.

Are you considering a career in truck driving? Truck driving is a fast growing career that promises opportunity, excitement and a chance for advancement. Of course, the money is good as well, and that’s one of the primary reasons folks choose this high demand career path.

Before you can be hired by a trucking company, you will need to pass your Commercial Driver’s License test. This test is given by the Department of Motor Vehicles and draws its questions from the CDL manual offered by your state. You will also have to pass a driving exam. To get a copy of the CDL manual for your state, visit your local DMV office. You might be able to print it out online.

Before The Test

There are certain things you can do to make sure you are well prepared for your upcoming CDL test. Besides practicing, of course, you should make sure you study the dates and times of your test. Some states will allow you to take your CDL test at the DMV, while others have special sites you will have to drive to in order to take the test.

Get a full night’s sleep the night before your test. Also, have a light breakfast so you are not fighting hunger pangs. Arrive early for your test so you can have a look around and settle in. Make sure you have a folder for any paperwork you need. Arriving early will allow you to ask any questions you might have, and you might be lucky enough to watch someone else complete the driving test before you get behind the wheel.

Use Online Practice Tests

Take full advantage of the practice tests that are available online. These tests have two primary benefits. The first one is they will help ease your anxiety because they will familiarize you with the questions you will see on your CDL test. The second benefit is you’ll be able to see what your strengths and weaknesses are. This way you’ll be able to go back and study the sections that are giving you problems.

Interested in pursuing a career as a trucker? Contact Tucson truck driving company DSW Drivers today at 1-888-266-7534.

Despite the numerous types of vehicles that have come into common use since the first automobile, it is upon the large semi tractor trailer that America still depends. Ever since the rise of the trucking industry took over from the railways, the American truck stop has been evolving to accommodate the thousands of men and women who spend most of their lives on the road.

The necessity and evolution of the average truck stop hinges on a few factors. Truckers are like the cowboys of yesterday, making lonely treks across the wilderness to brings goods from one city to another. The journey can be fatiguing, dull, and isolating. Truck stops began by providing the basics, but one flourishing industry has led to the expansion of another, so that the American truck stop now offers a place for these men and women to socialize, do laundry, bathe, eat, and relax.

During World War I, the railways, which had previously been responsible for transporting good across the country, became preoccupied with fulfilling the needs of the war effort. People had to find a new way to get civilian goods from place to place, and this is when the trucking industry really began to take shape. Likewise, Mom and Pop locations that saw to the needs of these truckers began popping up, especially in the 1920’s. These locations provided a trucker’s most basic needs in a fairly basic way. There was food, bathrooms, parking, and rooms full of bunks for sleeping.

By 1935, forty percent of America depended on truckers to transport items such as food and other goods. The vast increase in truckers on the road began clogging the nation’s highways, which led to the creation of the Federal Interstate Highway Act of 1956. This launched the creation of a national system of highways which would connect all parts of the country. As a result, the Mom and Pop truck stops began to disappear, no longer capable of fulfilling the needs of the vastly increased numbers of truckers taking goods across the country.

Oil companies took the lead in making truck stops after the old Mom and Pop shops began to fade, counting on the enormous revenue that the fuel needs of the trucking industry would bring. In 1964, Standard Oil opened the Iowa 80 Truckstop on the newly emerging Interstae 80, a horizonal artery that connected the West coast to the East. Beginning with only two gas pumps, three diesel pumps, parking for ten or so trucks, and a small store, it has since evolved to cover more than 225 acres. In 1984 a new owner began the expansion, adding the 30,000 square feet Trucker’s Store which has every imaginable thing a trucker could want for his rig. With truckers spending more and more of their lives on the road,the Iowa 80 makes life a bit more relaxing with a sixty seat theater, a barbershop, and a dentist in addition to fantastic bathroom facilities.

In 1968, America had approximately 2,000 truck stops. Today, they number more than 6,000 mega centers. Advances in environmental consciousness have led to technology like the Idle Air– a system to end the need for truckers to idle their rigs to power their air conditioner’s, heaters, and televisions– and on board generators which use the truck’s own fuel, but at a much slower rate. Bio Diesel has also begun to appear at a few truck stops, helping to put a dent in consumption of foreign oil.

These days, the average truck stop caters to all sorts of motorists, including the eighty percent of highway traffic that isn’t long-haul trucking. The comforts and amenities offered to the road weary have evolved well past a hot meal and a bunk, so that the century old lifestyle of the trucker is no longer such a lonely or spare one.

Ready to hit the open road and begin a career in trucking? Contact Tucson truck driving company DSW Drivers today.

People today take highways for granted, but the introduction of the U.S. highway system is relatively recent. The vast interstate highway system that can take you from coast to coast or north and south, in fact, was only created a little more than half a century ago. Let’s take a brief look at the history of our highways.

Early History

The first major development in highways took place around one hundred years ago, when the Federal Aid Road Act of 1916 was passed by congress to improve roads throughout the nation. Yet the first world war siphoned funds and manpower away from this ambitious project.

The Federal Highway Act of 1921 ushered in the era of interstate highways with two lanes. When the depression hit the U.S., various road projects were introduced to give unemployed people gainful jobs. Yet this was postponed when America entered World War ll in 1941.

The Origins of the Interstate System

It wasn’t until after the conclusion of the great war that the U.S. highway system really began to expand in earnest. Although some progress was made under the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt, it was really President Dwight Eisenhower who literally got things moving with the Federal Highway Act of 1956.

Throughout the late 1950s and 1960s, highways expanded throughout the nation. In the 70s and 80s, the focus was on completing the Interstate system, which consists of over 40,000 miles of highway. The official name of this system, in honor of the president who began the project, is The Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.

U.S. Highways: From 1 to 830

We don’t often think about how the numbered highways got their assigned numbers, but the whole system is based on an elaborate plan. The highways start with US 1, which runs north-south from Maine to Florida. The highest numbered highway in the nation is US 830, which consists of a mere 200 or so miles in the state of Washington.

The Nation’s Most Iconic Highway: U.S. Route 66

Some of America’s most famous highways have a long history. U.S. Route 66, for example, was established back in 1926. It originally ran from Chicago to California, which made it a key link between the Midwest and West Coast. Route 66 was officially removed from the U.S. Highway system in 1985, but portions of it have been preserved as historic landmarks.

Ready to hit the open highway? Contact Tucson trucking company DSW Drivers for more information on truck driving jobs today.