Getting Ready for Your DOT Physical

Before you can become a driver for a trucking company in Tucson, you’ll need to obtain your commercial driver’s license. In addition to passing the Arizona CDL exam, you’ll also need to pass a medical examination required by the Department of Transportation. The DOT physical is required to help ensure that a person is medically qualified to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. Because of the risks involved with operating commercial trucks, professional drivers are held to higher physical, mental, and emotional standards than passenger car drivers. Medical certification is valid for two years, after which point you’ll need to take another DOT physical. If you need to pass this exam to earn your CDL or seek employment with a Tucson trucking company, here are some tips to help you prepare for your DOT physical.

Avoid Energy Drinks

Try to lay off energy drinks for at least 24 hours before the exam. Energy drinks can raise your blood pressure, sometimes enough to the point where you may be deemed medically disqualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Over-the-counter cold medicine can also raise your blood pressure, so it’s best to avoid these products as well.

Eat a Light Meal

On the morning of the exam, avoid the big breakfast you’re used to. A large meal can trigger a spilling of sugar in your urine which may lead to a restricted DOT card or disqualification pending treatment or further testing. It’s best to eat a light meal and go in hungry than have to wait to get your CDL or even jeopardize your employment with a trucking company because you had a hearty country breakfast with all the fixings.

Bring Medication and Compliance Letters

Before you leave the house, be sure to grab all medications in their original bottles and any compliance letters you may have from your doctor for special illnesses or medications. Show these to the doctor performing the physical so he or she can make sense of any unusual test results that might otherwise cause you to fail the medical examination.

Once you have your CDL and DOT physical card in hand, apply for a position with DSW. We offer one of the industry’s highest starting pay for recent CDL graduates, and all drivers are eligible for health, dental, and vision coverage after 90 days of employment. Call us toll-free at (877) 207-4662 to learn why drivers love working for DSW, and why you will too.

Why Should You Become a Commercial Truck Driver?

Whether you’re looking to start your career, change careers, or simply land one of the best-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree, you may be interested in becoming a commercial truck driver. Working as a professional driver has many benefits, especially for those employed at the top trucking companies in Tucson like Digby Southwest. Consider some of these top reasons to earn your CDL and become a commercial truck driver.

Great Pay

One of the most compelling reasons to become a commercial truck driver is the fact that it’s among the best-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary of truck drivers in the U.S. is between $32,000 and $61,000 per year. Recent CDL graduates can earn $0.36 per mile with DSW on top of layover pay, detention pay, and stop pay.

Advancement Opportunities

If you’re stuck in a dead-end job, you know how miserable and hopeless it feels to have no clear advancement opportunities insight. Fortunately, that’s not the case with truck drivers. From day one you’ll have clear advancement opportunities to work towards and numerous career paths to choose from, including becoming your own boss as an owner-operator. Whatever path you choose, DSW is committed to helping you achieve your lifelong career goals.

Tuition Reimbursement

Becoming a commercial truck driver, like most of the best jobs in this country, does require some training beforehand. But unlike a lot of other jobs, commercial truck drivers have the opportunity to complete the necessary schooling and training for free. The best trucking companies like DSW offer tuition reimbursement for qualified recent CDL graduates, which will eventually cover the cost of attending a truck driving school and starting your new career.

There are dozens of more reasons to become a commercial truck driver, and equally as many reasons to drive for DSW. Call us toll-free at 1-888-266-7534 to learn about the job opportunities that await you at Tucson’s top trucking company.

Safety Tips for Commercial Drivers During the Holiday Season

No matter where you are coming from or where you are going, it is important that you travel safely. If you work for a Tucson trucking company, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure a safe trip. Here are a few safety tips for commercial drivers during the holiday season.

Prepare in Advance

Your trip will always run more smoothly if you plan in advance. Early preparation can help you avoid a number of obstacles and setbacks and allow you to sit back and enjoy the ride. Make sure your vehicle gets the proper maintenance in the days leading up to the trip, and give it one final inspection before taking off. All of your fluids should be at the proper levels, and your heating and cooling systems should be in working condition; a long drive may feel much longer without heat or air conditioning.

Know Your Way Around

Commercial drivers often travel through areas that they are not familiar with, so it pays to take a look at your map before you hit the road. Many of today’s commercial truck drivers choose to use GPS devices to direct them along their route; this is helpful because it allows drivers to keep their eyes on or near the road at all times. A GPS device that dictates directions will also let you focus on your surroundings and observe work zones, school zones, and other traffic rules.

Avoid Distractions

Driving while distracted can quickly lead to a severe collision or other accident so be sure to stay focused. As responsible as you may be, it is important to realize that other drivers may not be so committed to safety. Keep the cell phone away and avoid eating or looking at your map while driving.

If you would like to learn more about how commercial drivers can stay safe during the holiday season, call DSW Drivers at 1-888-266-7534. We are a Tucson trucking company that offers an array of career options and constant support. Please do not hesitate to visit our website for more information about our services today.

A Look at the Rise of Trucking Jobs In America

If you have ever been interested in working for a Tucson trucking company, now might be the time to take the initiative. Keep reading if you are interested in taking a look at the rise of trucking jobs in America.

Becoming a Truck Driver

It is not necessarily easy to become a truck driver; the ideal candidate has certain skills and characteristics that make him or her suitable for the job. However, you do not need an undergraduate or graduate degree in order to acquire a job in this field like you might in many others. A commercial truck driver is required to hold valid Class A commercial driver’s license, or CDL. Fortunately there are many courses you can take in order to prepare for your CDL exam and secure a job in the industry.

Advantages of Trucking Jobs

There are plenty of trucking jobs to be acquired in America, which offers candidates a range of benefits. Trucking jobs offer a steady, reliable, and significant stream of income, and you do not have to put yourself through years of college in order to get your foot in the door. Certain trucking jobs will even help you pay off your student loans so you can keep the interest they accrue to a minimum. Many truck drivers enjoy their jobs because they get paid to travel all around the country. Driving can be an adventure, a period of relaxation, or anything else you want it to be.

Bringing the Industry to Full Employment

The commercial driving business has opened its door to countless new drivers over the past few years, and it continues to take on new hires. Modern economy is not at its best, but trucking jobs are helping all kinds of people make a comfortable living.
Are you interested in taking a closer look at the rise of trucking jobs in America? Contact DSW Drivers or visit our website. Our Tucson trucking company is proud to take excellent care of its drivers and create a positive work environment. Feel free to call us at 1-888-266-7534 for more information about our trucking company.

Staying Healthy While Spending the Day on the Road

When you get your first job at a Tucson trucking company, you will need to get ready to spend your days behind the wheel of a commercial truck. While trucking is a highly fulfilling and rewarding industry, it is important to make sure that you are making healthy choices as you embark on your commercial truck driving job. With truck stops and gas stations easily available on the road, it is essential to avoid the temptations of unhealthy snacks and other quick fixes. Here is a look at some great ideas for staying healthy while spending the day on the road.

Identify Current Habits

If you are looking for a great way to stay healthy when you are spending the day on the road, it is a good idea to take stock of current habits that may not be serving you. For example, if you have a tendency to reach for a candy bar or bag of chips when you are tired, it is important to take a look at how often you make these unhealthy choices.

Set Attainable Goals

To stay healthy when you are on the road, it is a great idea to set goals for yourself throughout the workday. By making these goals easily attainable, you will able to gradually work your way towards a healthier lifestyle. For example, you can set a goal to spend five minutes stretching every few hours.

Replace Unhealthy Practices

Another way to ensure that you are healthy when you are behind the wheel is to replace unhealthy habits with new behaviors. For example, if you have a tendency to eat a candy bar in the afternoons, you may want to replace this sugary snack with a healthier choice.

At DSW Drivers, we are committed to ensuring that our trucking employees are safe and healthy on the job. When you work for our Tucson trucking company, we will help you get the most out of your career as a truck driver. Call our Tucson location at (888) 266-7534 to learn more about our application process.

Safety and Maintenance Council Update from the Arizona Trucking Association

The Arizona Trucking Association (ATA) is dedicated to promoting safe, effective trucking practices throughout the state of Arizona. Periodic updates are released by the chairman of the ATA’s Safety & Maintenance Council to provide truck drivers with up-to-date information about safety regulations, training opportunities, and smart practices. This summer, the Safety & Maintenance Council update features three important safety programs available to truckers in the state of Arizona.

Truck Driving and Step Van Championships

The Annual Truck Driving Championship (TDC) was held on April 25, 2015, at the Tempe Diablo Stadium. During the championship, contestants took a three-part test that included a written exam, pre-trip inspection, and driving demonstration, all geared toward knowledge of trucking regulations and safety practices. 2015’s TDC tested 168 truck drivers in nine separate categories; the winners of each class will go on to represent Arizona at the National Truck Driving Competitions on August 11-15, 2015, in St. Louis, MO.

RoadCheck Safety Event

The RoadCheck Safety Event takes place each year during a 72-hour window; this year, RoadCheck was held between June 2-4. During RoadCheck, inspectors representing local, state, and federal enforcement agencies perform thousands of checks on trucks to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The 2015 RoadCheck event placed special emphasis on the securement of trailers and cargo during the 37-step Level I trucking inspection.

Annual SuperTech Competition

The ATA SuperTech Competition will be held on June 25, 2015, at Universal Technical Institute in Avondale, AZ. This competition focuses on the inspection and maintenance of trucks and trailers, featuring 30-minute hands-on stations that include vehicle inspections, electrical component tracing and repair, and brake, steering, and suspension inspection and analysis. The state champion will move on to represent Arizona at the National Skills Competition.

At DSW Drivers, we are proud to promote a safe and supportive working environment for truckers in Tucson. Please give us a call toll-free at 1 (888) 266-7534 or visit our website to apply for a position with our trucking company, explore our current job opportunities, or read through the latest information about the trucking industry.

Is Truck Driving the Right Career Choice for You?

The trucking industry provides plenty of job opportunities that offer a lot of people the chance to make money on their own terms. Keep reading to find out if truck driving could be the right career choice for you:

You Like to See New Things

If you do not like the idea of waking up and going to the same office every day, you might prefer the life of a trucker. When you drive a truck, you can always see something new and different that helps you cater to your need for change. The trucking industry gets you out from behind the desk and into a career that always offers something new and different.

You Like Alone Time

Some people prefer their own company to big groups of people. If you would rather enjoy the beauty of the open road on your own, you might want to think about becoming a truck driver. If you do not like someone looking over your shoulder throughout the day, driving solo in a truck might be the right career choice for you.

You Want to See the Country

When you work as a truck driver, you can experience the open road as a part of your job. Long-haul trips can take you across the country so you have a chance to see the nation from a different vantage point. From the mountains of the southwest to the seaside beauty of coastal cities, working as a truck driver is one of the best ways to see the best parts of the country.

If you think driving a truck sounds like the perfect career for you DSW Drivers is here to help. We place qualified drivers in jobs so they can excel in their chosen careers. Whether you are just starting out in the industry or you want something new, we are here for you. To learn more, visit us online or call 1-888-266-7534.

Visit our ongoing series of videos of some of the worst drivers caught on camera! Check out, Who Taught You How to Drive?! by clicking here.

Who Taught You How to Drive

A Look at the Different Types of Trucking Jobs

When you get your CDL, you have the opportunity to choose between a variety of trucking jobs. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of trucking jobs so you can find the one that works the best for you:

Pulling a Dry Van

When most people start out in the industry, they usually drive a truck that pulls a dry van. These are the box trailers that are commonly seen on the highways. The freight in a dry van usually requires no special attention, which is why this is a good job for people who are just starting out in the industry.

Pulling Refrigerated Freight

When you pull refrigerated freight, you have more responsibilities than you would have to pull a normal dry van. Refrigerated trucks haul products that must be kept below a certain temperature. Since it requires more attention and more work, jobs pulling refrigerated freight often offer higher pay than dry van jobs.

Hauling Flat Bed Loads

Drivers hauling flatbed loads drive trucks without an enclosed back area. They are often seen transporting airplanes to construction materials. These trucks have the capabilities of hauling oversized freight that does not fit into traditional semi-trucks. When you haul a flat bedload, you have to take the time to properly secure your freight. Since flatbed loads require more work and skill, you get paid more for these jobs.

Driving a Tanker

These vehicles are used to transport liquids. A tanker could be full of anything from gasoline to milk. Drivers need special training before they can get behind the wheel of a tanker.
DSW Drivers is here to help you find Tucson trucking jobs. Whether you are just starting out in the industry or you are looking for a job change, we make it easy to find the best positions for your needs. To learn more about our job opportunities, visit us online or call 1-888-266-7534.

The Importance of Using Your Mirrors When Operating a Truck

When you drive a commercial truck, you always have to pay attention to what is happening around you to ensure your own safety and the safety of other drivers. Keep reading to find out why it is essential to use your mirrors while you are operating your vehicle:

They Help You Anticipate Movements

Driving defensively is all about anticipating the moves of other drivers before they make them so you can adjust your vehicle accordingly. Using your mirrors while you drive helps you keep an eye on all of the traffic around you so you have a better chance of successfully anticipating what other drivers are going to do. Even giving yourself a few more seconds to react can help you avoid a collision.

They Help You Find an Escape

When you drive, you should always have an escape plan that helps you maneuver out of potentially dangerous situations. Keeping your eyes on your mirrors shows you what is happening around you so you can always have a back-up plan. Checking the mirrors shows you what lanes are clear and how much distance is available between you and other vehicles.

They Show You When You Can Make a Move

Watching your mirrors is extremely important if you plan to switch lanes while you drive. Consistently checking your mirrors helps you figure out the location of other vehicles so you know when you can safely switch lanes. These mirrors are also useful when you are trying to make turns. You should always check your mirrors when you are thinking about changing up your current driving strategy.

DSW Drivers is always interested in hooking up safe drivers with local companies that need your services. For more than 20 years, we have served as one of the top trucking companies in Tucson and we do whatever we can to find drivers the best job opportunities for their needs. To learn more about our services, visit us online or call 1-888-266-7534.

Spotlight on Women in Trucking

More and more women are starting out in careers as drivers for trucking companies to enjoy the freedom of the road. Keep reading to learn more about these ladies and what they bring to the industry:

Less Aggression on the Road

In general, women tend to be less aggressive than men. This translates well on the road because women do not usually practice offensive driving. Without such aggressive tendencies, women drivers tend to be safe and conservative on the road, which makes it safer for everyone on the highway.

More Opportunities for Women Drivers

As little as ten years ago, it was rare to see a woman behind the wheel of a commercial truck. Today, there are more and more opportunities for women to obtain a CDL and find work in the trucking industry. Companies across the country are interested in diversifying their workforce by hiring qualified women drivers to transport their vehicles and loads to the desired destination.

A Market for More Women

If you are interested in joining the trucking industry, you should not feel like you are limited because you are a woman. Get your CDL and work with a trucking company that can find you the right job for your lifestyle needs. Whether you want to do long hauls across the country or you prefer to do local jobs in your area, there is a trucking opportunity for you. You can work with companies that provide paid training, competitive pay, and great benefits so you can find a fulfilling career in the field that interests you.
DSW Drivers is looking for commercial drivers with a Class A CDL to take advantage of job opportunities in the Tucson area. We pair qualified drivers with local companies to ensure that everyone gets what they need. For more than 20 years, we have worked hard to help local drivers find the best job opportunities. To learn more about our services, visit us online or call 1-888-266-7534.