Factors to Consider Before You Decide to Drive as a Team
Team trucking is the practice of pairing two CDL drivers with one truck. Team drivers can maximize their mileage because one driver can sleep while the other drives. This allows them to cover more ground while still complying with hours of service regulations. As with any career path, there are some pros and cons to consider before you decide to give it a try.
Personalities
Big rigs are sizable vehicles, but they make for small living spaces. Before you team up with someone else, it’s essential to make sure that your personalities are compatible and that you can get along well. This is one reason why some truckers decide to pair up with their spouses or partners, assuming that they also hold a CDL. If the relationship is stable and well-established, then team trucking can be a great way to spend more time together.
Personal Habits
A small living space means that you and your driving partner will become intimately familiar with each other’s personal habits. Both of you should be on the same page with regard to things like personal hygiene, and cleanliness of the cab and sleeper berth. It can be helpful to set some ground rules that both of you can live with.
Professional Skills
Pairing up with a driving partner can be particularly beneficial for a new trucker. You’ll learn from the experience of your driving partner, and you’ll have someone to rely on if you take the wrong turn or if the truck breaks down. However, if you’re a veteran driver, it’s important that you’re able to trust in the skills of your driving partner. It will be difficult to get to sleep if you’re worried about your partner getting into an accident.
DSW offers a variety of career choices, including our team matching option. Based on your personality and career preferences, we can match you with another driver. If you have graduated from a CDL training program and are looking for a trucking company in Tucson, give us a call today at (888) 266-7534.
