any idea on how to get into this dock?!
Posted by thebatman0213@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 385 comments
im only 4 months in. i hate delivering to costco, the customers do not care that im trying to get into the dock. & the building layouts are never trucker friendly. the only way i got into this dock last time was i went around the building. any advice would help. thank you.
RayAlmighty13@reddit
Are you kidding?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
read the entire post then come back to me plz.
RayAlmighty13@reddit
Like straight out of school 4 months?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
no ive been on my own for 4 months.
RayAlmighty13@reddit
So I saw the whole thing, what was the issue?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
there wasn’t really an issue, i was just trying to see if there was a different angle for me to get into the dock.
RayAlmighty13@reddit
Other than to back in? Listen, the most obvious way is usually it. Yeah sometimes idiots get in the way but YOU are the one in the truck. Don’t sweat them, just be safe and get in there.
Jazzlike_Plan7349@reddit
C'mon my dude call 1800 HELP ME PLZ and I'll pop up that's light work. U need to be ashame of yourself as a trucker
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
you need to be ashamed you didn’t read the caption
Jazzlike_Plan7349@reddit
U right I missed it
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
it’s all good drive safe.
SleepingGiante@reddit
Got a satellite view? A lot of costcos you could pull around the right side facing the dock then just back in. Just watch for dumb impatient 4 wheelers
SleepingGiante@reddit
Looks like 1600 expo pkwy in Sacramento. You could go in on the first entrance to the east and head around back, watch for the dumpster. You could also enter second exit and loop around to the north side of the building then have an easy back in. Also depends on delivery time.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeap that’s the right address. i’ll try what you said tho. i just get nervous when it’s a lot of ppl waiting & watching for me to back up.
bunssnowman@reddit
Difficult when you're first starting out. Do not rush for their benefit though. If they honk, you honk louder. Their groceries cannot be as important as what you're doing. If you're that new id avoid backing off the street and just circle the building if you made it happen last time. When you get about half your trailer past that wall cut in towards it then when you know your tail swing wont take the wall out cut back towards that entrance about as far left you can get. Go into the street if you need but be careful. Should set you up between a 22.5-45 degree back. Honk before you start backing then honk every 5 or so seconds. If you see any movement in your mirrors that wasnt caused by you moving the truck stop and honk, if you dont see them clear behind you then GOAL. Good luck, be safe. The first year is the hardest, props to you for being humble enough to make a post asking. Dont like pride take over while doing your duties. Like someone else said, bully the four wheelers as much as necessary to complete the job safely.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
appreciate the advice. im never too scared to ask for help. but i’ll definitely lay into the horn more as im backing up.
bunssnowman@reddit
Well brother, time has come and gone. How'd it go?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i got there. i went around the building, pulled into the street honked my horn & back it up.
dipstickdarin38@reddit
When I first started out, I used to let the impatient four wheelers get to me. Now I just smile and it gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling when I know I’m annoying them doing my job. I totally absolutely ignore them. Every now and then I’ll blow them a kiss. I never let them get me angry. They are so bad out here and getting worse every day.
Upnorth4@reddit
One time I had to deliver a package on a narrow street. Some guy was riding my ass down the entire street, so when I get to the customers house I slam on the brakes and jam my van into reverse. Guy starts honking at me, so I just lay down the horn back at him, and reverse even closer, almost hitting him. He finally gets the message that I need to be in this driveway and backs off
ButcherChop@reddit
As a Costco customer I will always hold traffic if I see a trucker need some help. I have so much respect for yall.
Jaycool10@reddit
Best advice thus far
MrFreakEm313@reddit
I just brought this up the other day. Whenever I have a crowd, my backing skills are impeccable! It’s when I’m by myself and have a ton of space that I end up doing 2 or 3 pull-ups lol it absolutely blows my mind as to why that is.
Certifed729@reddit
Dude! Same!!! No one around watching me, can almost guarantee at least one pull up. But if there’s an audience, I’ll back up doubles around a 90° turn into a dock first shot 😂…. For whatever reason The other thing this applies to for me is skeet shooting or bird hunting with a shotgun. If I’m with someone else or at a range and people are watching waiting for their turn, you might as well hand me a snub nose revolver and I’ll knock em out of the sky(not really but I’m dead on everytime) but if it’s a slow day and at a range with an auto launcher, I’m dumping 3 shells at every clay and still only hitting half of them 🤷🏼♀️
jfweasel@reddit
Glad I’m not the only one. I have always assumed when I have tons of space that I just don’t have any frame of reference and back like shit even a straight back sometimes. Now give me very tight space, I stress the fuck out but am able to normally make it in one try.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i wish i was like that. im literally the exact opposite.
Due-Ad-3775@reddit
Starting the post with the destination address as well as which direction you are coming from will yield the best results in getting help from drivers willing to engage with your post. I’m sometimes so inclined, but when all I see is a general street view video I don’t have much other than a general answer. It seems that you’ve found someone who recognizes the dock. Good luck driver. You are going to need it. I’m not being snarky either, we all need as much help as we can get out there. And BTW, keep it out of your ass, I mean, unless you’re into that sort of thing…
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao im not into the booty play but thank you.
WhiskeyWhisperer@reddit
I'm not a trucker, but I'm definitely trucker sympathetic. Don't worry about the impatient people. They're too self absorbed to realize they wouldn't be there to get their shit if you weren't delivering it. More people need to be aware just how important your industry is, but unfortunately there are just too many main characters out there that just simply can't be bothered to wait an extra minute or two. They don't even realize they make the situation worse for themselves when they start pressuring you to speed up.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
very true
pingus3233@reddit
You'll develop the "fuck 'em, they can wait" attitude soon enough.
TheFringedLunatic@reddit
Fuck ‘em. You’re doing your job, they’re pulling their puds. If you spend all your time worrying about inconveniencing 4-wheelers, you’ll never get the job done.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
true
Such-Tourist-6850@reddit
I’ll be up there watching and blowing the horn tomorrow
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lol oh no don’t make me more nervous
Cyanide612@reddit
It’s like performing on stage, right? Except instead of imagining everyone naked you image the horns as cheering and applause. Easier said than done but it sounded funny in my head😁
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao
Redfreightshaker@reddit
Don’t get nervous and take your time.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
will do.
SleepingGiante@reddit
Gets used to getting into the mentality, but fuck them. Be aware of them, but don’t bend to them when maneuvering, otherwise you could get into a bad spot. Like, I’d drive on the left side of that east entrance and wave anyone confused around so I know I’ve got room to turn without curb checking that tree area. That looks like the tightest spot. Then just hang wide until you are by the docks. Check in door should be beside the dock on the west side of the building and you can park right there before backing to see what door they want. Could get busy, they’ve got bread trucks and such that roll through constantly. But be courteous to them and they should show the same courtesy.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i get you but it’s like i can feel em staring at me. thank you for the advice. ill keep it in mind.
Onlyheretostare@reddit
You’ll be ok, just be patient and don’t be scared to use your horn.
theberg512@reddit
1600 Expo Pkwy, Sacramento, CA 95815
Looks like to come from that right side he'd have to circle the building.
SleepingGiante@reddit
Yup, couple ways. He’s gotta learn to bully some four wheelers and be patient if he delivers during business hours.
Metaltom1970@reddit
I’m delivering to Costco stores daily, there is usually more than enough room and from the looks of it that one you should go in the last entrance and down the backside of the building to pull across the dock to the right and back towards the street for that door.
lss607isamess@reddit
You're joking right?? The street is right there. Back from the street that's an easy back
LockportTrans@reddit
Back from the street
half_integer@reddit
One tip for planning backing approaches - ask yourself what would be the way you would take out of that dock when leaving, that will often give you the easiest path to back down. Assuming you prefer to not make sharp turns or go near obstructions in forwards travel either.
americandoom@reddit
In food service all of our backing is around idiots that don’t stop and drive behind around and in front of you. I just hit the 4 ways, blow the horn and do my thing.
TruckingforSims@reddit
Bro would lose his shit doing foodservice
LegitimateImpress336@reddit
ALWAYS ASK AND MAKE EMPLOYEE'S BLOCK TRAFFIC FOR YOU! Fellow No Pay May Driver and I learned that quickly... Safe Travels!
-Mikey2Toes@reddit
Back in off the street
polarjunkie@reddit
I'm willing to bet there is an entrance on the other side of the building that follows the building around and makes this an easy offset back.
-Mikey2Toes@reddit
I agree… but with the info supplied, I would back in off street. The blind side doesn’t even look that hard either to be honest… but a new guy? Back in off the street
Chance_Board_6089@reddit
Im late lol. I would back in off the street. You should be able to get in like an offset/parallel parking maneuver easy. Hope you made it in ok!
BlindRPD129@reddit
Yep and the Costco stores I've delivered to, early mornings only, so no cars
polarjunkie@reddit
Same.
BoomhauerBlack@reddit
I thought the same thing and I haven't even started CDL school yet lol
ResponsibilityTop732@reddit
Yeah, you just go around the back and use the room you have and back it off in there
Fillyourvoid08@reddit
Yes my intial though💪👏
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i’ll try that & lay on the horn.
bigfrappe@reddit
Toot toot makes it professional
WideAd2738@reddit
Don’t forget the park anywhere lights
AbrocomaUnhappy9405@reddit
Aka "get tf out of my way" lights when you're backing
goawaynothere@reddit
Hazard blinky lights make everything safe.
ajk3323@reddit
How did it go
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i go there tomorrow
ZLUCremisi@reddit
Call ahead to see if they help direct traffic and you back in.
SidheDreaming@reddit
This is the way!
Theodrick@reddit
Maybe also when you get there there may not be that many trailers in the dock but it looks like you're going to have to back in off the street and flashers on and Blow Your Horn maybe get Costco employee to spot you
lonelyboy069@reddit
That's what I thought too .....
Sedatephobia94@reddit
This is the way
Sweetsummerrose@reddit
This is the best option!
Wasatchbl@reddit
This is the way
Cant-Gif-Right@reddit
This is the way, and blow horn while bavking
LavishnessBright1717@reddit
Back in from the street opening
hiplainsdriftless@reddit
I hate when drivers blow on the horn.
13MrJeffrey@reddit
Back in off the street then slide and lock your tandems all the way to the rear of the trailer. Take your time get out and look man.
Used to hit this dock in L.A. on 14th street across from the Sears building. 14th street is a wide alley. Longnosed 379 Pete with a 50' reefer wagon. The dock is in the middle of the building. Long story short inches of clearance mirror brackets on both sides.
Acme Chicken Chinatown in Seattle another fun dock fire hydrant just begging to snag ya front bumper.
Linda Baxter's Embellishments: A furniture store in a strip mall in Las Vegas. Imagine backing into a Cul de sac off the blindside...
UGAMUG@reddit
If you have to ask go park your truck and turn your keys in
arterialturns@reddit
That's fucking stupid.
ScaredPerformance733@reddit
So easy
N1V0N1S@reddit
Jack knife around the wall to the dock. Do this every single time you deliver to that exact dock.
It might take you a few trys. But eventually, you'll never ask about how to back that truck ever again.
TheJokhar@reddit
Here's what I would do
Luisiito269@reddit
Piece of cake! Of you can't back in there, you shouldn't be driving a semi.
ScaryfatkidGT@reddit
Can you
Or
jntperformance@reddit
Just back it in put the trailer in the hole
West-Raccoon-2043@reddit
Come in where that car is coming from the back of the store and just back into the dock
Longway23544@reddit
Offset back
Weird-Breakfast-7259@reddit
Looking again, you might have to turn left instead of into the driveway, then back across street to dock Or shorter truck
Weird-Breakfast-7259@reddit
Back out and go around the building and pull in the Truck Entrance
Sea-Leg-9047@reddit
I delivered to Home Depot in Florida a lot, much tighter than this. The trick that always worked for me is a 180 degree backing, basically pull in straight to the road next to the dock facing it and make half a circle curve moving to the dock.
holynightstand@reddit
GPS may show you if you can go around the back of the store
jjvsjeff@reddit
If that street at the end of the video is not busy I would pull up to the left side and back from there for an easy straight back. Backing from a busy parking lot especially at a Costco is dangerous because Costco shoppers dgaf
Hoops4U@reddit
Who knew my local costco would end up on the trucker subreddit lol
Prestigious_Try_134@reddit
Yea back into it
Bucknerds@reddit
I would assume you drive to it. Now if you have a flying truck it's easier but driving is not impossible.
TruckeronI5@reddit
On weird docks I sometimes ask the dock guy how the trucks usually back in to the spot.
JeepingTrucker@reddit
Shit, back it in from the street driver. Start up close to the wall on the passenger side, nose it out to the left out the driveway, straight back it into the dock.
Loud-Minimum-3934@reddit
Get around the back of the building and use the the driveway and street to tip the trailer to the left straighten out . Go very slow keep your eyes open.
SeaRow556@reddit
You can drive past the forklift straight to the street then do an blind side offset
AreaLeftBlank@reddit
Come on driver, they get 53's in there all the time.
YouBot_@reddit
Yes you go back around the building so you can come back next to the dock doors, next you pull forward towards the exit where it takes to you to road, then start reversing into the dock door
whodat209@reddit
Back in like you own the place comon 😂
Neither-Party2101@reddit
Backwards
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
k
Neither-Party2101@reddit
😂
Ill_Court_7467@reddit
I would park on other side of retaining wall and hook it around.
Cucaracha899@reddit
I’ve been there. Get angled on the street
Cucaracha899@reddit
https://tracy-fleet-maps.glideapp.io/dl/6471c6
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you that’s what i did
Cucaracha899@reddit
If you’re gonna be doing more Costco runs out of Tracy I recommend using that guide I posted. Except for the store in Citrus Heights, the guide is wrong on that one.
soulzero22@reddit
Just get one of the employees to help stop traffic while you pull up the street. 👍
kanodoggg@reddit
Looks like a piece of cake tbh
OMG_its_critical@reddit
“Ask your boyfriend to do it for you!” - my dad
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
don’t have a bf
PAR195@reddit
That is the reason I drive a tanker.
I’m sure some of those little brown guys that wear flip flops could do it.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
they probably can
Outlandah_@reddit
What? You very clearly back it right in. They teach this stuff in driving school...unless you're that green, just ask for a spotter.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
in driving school we used a day cab with a 28ft trailer. read the caption as well plz.
markwmke@reddit
Easy coming in off the street. Ask someone to stand by for you if nervous
pv1rk23@reddit
Alley dock
gilholebaggins@reddit
Sight side u turn then pull up a couple times.
Odd_Studio2870@reddit
Offset back?
tidyshark12@reddit
Pull in, turn left, do a u-turn in the docking area, pull out towards the exit to the road, back in. This will also put you backing sight-side
DonMarce@reddit
You could 45 that if you come in from the car side.
If that's not possible blind 90 into the dock.
If you want something safer Blind 90 on the side where there's is more room pull into the street and 45 into the dock
If you want an even safer option go straight around the Costco and see if there is another dock around back turn around then 45 into the dock. If there isn't one back all the way up do the 3rd option.
InternationalPath624@reddit
Easy
RequirementLeading12@reddit
Turn into the parking lot across the street and straight back🤷🏻♂️
Nasty_Rex@reddit
This is one of those posts that makes me wonder why I don't have a CDL
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
go get one gangy
Nasty_Rex@reddit
The company I'm about to join is going to pay for it.
My second interview is Tuesday.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
good luck.
Nasty_Rex@reddit
Thanks, big dog.
spyder7723@reddit
This is one of those posts that reminds me how little training and skill this industry requires from is "professional" drivers.
Nasty_Rex@reddit
We are saying the same thing lmao
Wizofsorts@reddit
I'D blindside around that wall in my day cab.
rytram99@reddit
Looks like a typical 90°
Due-Pilot-7443@reddit
I've backed into the stupid inside docks in Chicago off the main street.. Really slow back , blow the horn and bulley your way until you have the truck across all lanes and back in.. the one I'm thinking about had really good lines , lights and reflectors made it pretty easy going into the inside docks from a sunny street...
Due-Pilot-7443@reddit
Pull into the offset drive on the left there. Block the way with your trailer open the doors blow the highway horn a few times while backing across the main drive..
Internal-Delusions01@reddit
Is that Richmond CA?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
nah sacramento
loverd84@reddit
I would back in .
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
k
Some_Victory_5499@reddit
At a angle Architects have no idea. What we have to do
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
that part.
constrman42@reddit
I would come in the same way that car is passing the forklift. Pull right up to the edge of the drive where it meets the street and back right down in.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
imma ask if they have any cones.
Xnyx@reddit
From the road for sure.
If you are late or early enough thy row of parked cars would be gone so lots of out front room to shepherds hook that
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
my appointment is at 3pm, those cars & more will definitely be there.
Xnyx@reddit
Yea unless your in a day can with a 20 foot trailer those cars are going to be a nightmare.
It's usually OK to ask for a dock hand to watch traffic...
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i’ll do that as well
voices2hear@reddit
Backing off the street is your best option and be aware if you get the far right door (facing the dock) there are some hand rails that make it a little tight. Don’t be afraid to GOAL. You got this
Is that the Costco off greenback in Sacramento?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
im definitely not afraid to GOAL. no it’s expo park in sacramento but thank you.
dgregg2_@reddit
I'd legit try blind side 90. More than likely anyone driving around that part of the warehouse is employees.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
nah it’s customers who come in this way. i’ve docked here previously. i just wanted to see if anyone saw a different angle.
Subject-Leg7422@reddit
Always utilize satellite view if possible. There should be a way to enter the backside of the building, drive all the way around, then use the exit for space to offset back. Then there’s an idiot like me who delivers McDonald’s for a living who would drive through the parking lot, pass the docks on my left and 45 it at the exit to back in. There’s a lot of ways to back into that dock and everyone here in the comments have some really good ideas.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeah a costco driver who previously docked here sent me a map of how he got around the building. so ill use that today.
CutestEbi@reddit
I have been to this Costco before. Depending on your appointment time this will either be a breeze or a nightmare.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
3pm so it’s a lil bad dream
ManxMammoth@reddit
Doesn't matter if you find the perfect way to set up the delivery, hundreds of 4 wheelers will circle around you aggressively in a costco parking lot and ruin your day.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao you aint lying
TomRiddle_ReadSlow@reddit
That’s light work Baby 🙂
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
it is, ive docked here before. i was just seeing if anyone else saw a better angle than i did.
Capable_Network_5799@reddit
Can't be done.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
interesting
OkeyDokey84@reddit
If you have to ask you shoudnt be driving
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
read the ENTIRE post not just the title then come back to me plz.
J-Kensington@reddit
Believe me driver, it's the same for absolutely any retail delivery position. I've done costco, Sam's club, walmart, home depot, lowe's, menards, target, and probably a dozen others I'm not thinking of. And damn near every Kroger store between VA and IA.
Every four wheeler and every parking lot and quite a few of the truckers are 100% convinced that they are more important than you are. I'm not telling you this to get you down, but rather so that you can plan for it.
If possible, let the cars get out of the way. They want to, and you want them to. Any car not in a parking spot at a retail location is Schrodinger's accident. Until you see them leave the parking lot, you have no idea whether that's the car that's going to hit you or not.
And if it's not possible to let the cars get out of the way, don't be afraid to be an asshole. Most retail parking lots have about 15 exits, so they don't have to sit there and wait for you if they don't want to. If you have to get in the way, get in the way.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you for your help.
ignoreme010101@reddit
It often helps me to imagine being in the dock, and thinking how I'd pull out to leave it. Then just doing that in reverse to get into it!
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
you’re right ive never thought about it like that
smileypalmer1978@reddit
My first comment was a little rude till I actually read more of the post . Now I understand! Yah everyone gave u great advice already. Right on bro glad to have in the industry
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you. im just trying to see if anyone sees a different angle that i didn’t see previously. ive already docked here before.
Competitive-Face8952@reddit
The fact that you are struggling with this question makes me feel that much more confident that I'll have a job until driverless becomes a thing.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
read the the caption
FossMan21@reddit
While I truly appreciate you planning ahead. This isn’t that hard. If you were pulling in from the side where the dock is on the right just pull up as far as you can and slowly arch your way in. No one cares if you take 20 minutes to get in. Just be safe and don’t hit shit.
theminnesoregonian@reddit
It's not that hard, but that's not the point. This is about OP learning how to be a good, safe, smart, conscientious driver. So let's help him get there.
Upnorth4@reddit
I'd rather have an assertive and safe driver than a polite driver
Different-Air-2000@reddit
That is the point. Don’t overthink the job. Take your time and don’t hit shit.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i get you. ive backed into this dock before i just went around the building. but i just wanted to see if ppl had a different way to get into the dock.
Deadbeatdone@reddit
180 back if you're feelin froggy.
FossMan21@reddit
Hey. If it worked before don’t try to change it. Don’t over think this. If it worked once don’t try and change it. When you try something new is when shit gets fucked up
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
true true
mrcrashoverride@reddit
I’m sure somewhere there is an exception but I cannot think of a Costco you don’t go around the building…??
corky1983@reddit
There's several in the Houston, Austin and San Antonio area here in Texas.
Bonus points if you ever deliver to the one on Richmond Ave in Houston 🤣
crabby692@reddit
Shit man i used to live 10 min up the road from that one and still would go to the one over in sugar land. Was bad enough in a p/u dont even wanna imagine soing it in with a 53
corky1983@reddit
I opened that one years ago. Then spent the past 4 years delivering there until I got an office job. As long as West Alabama was open its not bad but if you have to come in from Richmond to Cummins it gets hairy. The people parking on the street make it extra fun 😁
ThreeQuartersSerious@reddit
DFW metroplex also has a few without “loops” around the building, mainly in the older suburban areas. They’re all still fairly easy to get into though.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i did go around the building before. i just wanted to see if there was a better way for me to get into the dock.
lethalkitten2@reddit
Drive past and start going out that exit there like you are leaving putting some angle in your trailer, then back it in like it's an offset backing. Sure, it's semi on your blind side, but once you get it semi in the hole, if you need to, you can adjust.
garr0510@reddit
Smack the horn a couple good times and back in from that wide open space
PoppaT1@reddit
Maybe use the same method the other three drivers did.
Borbygoymoss@reddit
Scoot over from the left. Ask the dock for a traffic spotter
K_F_G@reddit
drive around the build ,pull your nose up to the street and back into the dock
Strangeokk@reddit
As someone who drives for a grocery store, I recommend pulling through the exit and backing off the street.
rigger80ffy@reddit
Drive nose into the driveway until your steers are at the speed humps aiming toward the left side speed hump. Start backing up kicking your trailer tight around the gutter to spin 180 deg, everything will be in view for you the whole time.
Tough_Yard7088@reddit
I would get an early morning appointment. No cars in the way..
CatfishGrits@reddit
I had a milk man at a store in a Philadelphia suburb show me once on a very similar dock. He pulled in with the dock on his left , up past it to a good spot, then cranked the wheel backing up and pivoting the trailer back in to the dock. The pictures look like there is probably enough room for your tractor to come around to the right. Just keep eye out for customers pulling up on your blind area and wondering why you are driving backwards.
Not saying it’s the best way, but it’s always nice to know you have options. I hadn’t ever looked at a back job as being doable like that. The old fart in the milk truck knew the deal though.
Anyway just a thought. Good luck take it slow have fun with it.
Adventurous_Issue155@reddit
That's easy
Lm602@reddit
Pull past the dock to the left and blind side in.
baltbum@reddit
If you can't back into that dock, you need to find another line of work. I've got pictures of me backed into a dock (379 Pete/53 Ft. Trl. with 2 feet between my front bumper and a guard rail. Plus, I had to blind side back into it.
smileypalmer1978@reddit
Common bro 😎 that’s first year rookie shhhh😉 just cross the road then back in offset
UOLZEPHYR@reddit
Come along side, catty corner - get as straight as you can for your target and back and adjust as needed
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
copy.
UOLZEPHYR@reddit
I run local daycab - don't be afraid to take up all your avaliable space and block traffic if needed. Above all - go slow, use 4 ways, wear your vest etc etc
ProfessionalKvetcher@reddit
Found the Costco on Google Maps and it looks fairly straightforward. Turn into the lot by the gas station on Expo Parkway and head to the back. The right turn at the far edge of the parking lot should be wide enough to make the turn even if there’s cars there. Drive along the back lane and wrap right around the building.
Pull up parallel to the dock on the other side of the wall, pop your doors, and pull forward into the street. Take it slow and keep your cool. If you need to, grab an employee or two and ask them to stop traffic while you back up. They might grumble, but they’d rather help than deal with an accident. Remember, you have just as much right to be in the lot as customers, don’t be afraid to own your space. You’ve got this.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
appreciate that so much. i get nervous when ppl are staring waiting for me to get into the dock. i’ve went around the building before & back into the dock. i just wanted to see if it was an easier or better way to do it.
radioplayer1@reddit
This is why I always keep some fireball close by
doinmydeed@reddit
This is exactly what I would do.
Electrical_Smoke5771@reddit
Pull to the street on the angle you want and get it in the hole no Diddy
AffectionateEase1606@reddit
Id pull straight in, back towards the dock between the cars far enough to set up a regular back in scenario.
DEeZ_NutZ_KiLLaKill_@reddit
You could honestly come at it from any of the surrounding roadways but best nose in directly across the street from the dock. It’s almost a straight shot with little interference and no red obstructions. Keep it straight till just about the beginning of the dock entrance and then adjust as needed ( bump the horn once or twice-hit in to reverse an move on but just remember the cars can stop for you)
Mrcommander254@reddit
You've got plenty of room.
TimeMail9865@reddit
There’s a couple of ways. If you’re experienced enough you’ll figure it out.
GoosieRS@reddit
close your eyes, throw it into Race mode, And pray! Thats what i do as a yard dog and it has worked so far!
BonusHour8693@reddit
Costco is a bear of a delivery.
Hmnh6000@reddit
Fish tail
BigDikus69@reddit
Pull into the lot across the street and back in to the dock.
Present-Ambition6309@reddit
Just keep wiggling it, if you hit something, try again until your clutch runs low on air and overheats then take your 10.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao ok
Present-Ambition6309@reddit
Appears to be an offset to me, tho I’m wrong a lot, if it is an offset, you got it. There’s a Costco up in Washington, their dock is surrounded by employees cars, added in with the smaller trucks ie bread truck, it would be easy, but those cars make it awfully butt clenching…
Always end up doing an informal blindside in. You can tell there was NO foreskin eerrr forethought put into it. 😂
Happy_Discipline5882@reddit
Go around the whole store to where your trailer is facing the dock then back in.
AdventurousLawyer646@reddit
Offset backing from the entrance
134679112@reddit
Fairly simple blind side, start at a 45 degree angle
TruckinTuba@reddit
Looks like plenty of room honestly, but im a fuel hacker, im always in tight spaces 😂
Justin_92@reddit
Word of advice; those orange traffic cones store easily under the bunk and will usually keep traffic from driving where you don’t want them to while you’re having to back in a high traffic area. Set them up wherever you need as needed, just don’t forget to put them back in your truck once you’re done. Also, I think it may be illegal to use them on a roadway (idk I’m not 100% on that) so just be careful about where you put them without verifying if you’re allowed to or not.
Flight-watch@reddit
Yep. CoEother come in the right entrance or drive to the turn around, and then it's almost a straight back.
-Walmart driver.
acd2002@reddit
The way id do it is if you're pulling in nose first from that driveway, hug that red curb a bit, and pivot the trailer around it then just do a regular 90° into the dock, not too bad, maybe you'll luck out and there won't be many cars parked in that area so you can use as much space as you can
OffduhTopic@reddit
A pain in the ass blind side from the street but do-able
Slosky22@reddit
Address would help most likely the long ally next to dock…
reddog342@reddit
Wish my GPS worked this well
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lol nah this google maps street view
smyth222@reddit
I'm pretty sure my buddy was just here! He's only 3 months in, I'll link his video. Who do you drive for?
Link
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you & i drive for may just like him
Straight-Fortune-193@reddit
Come around the building if you can then straight back in dock then leave from that driveway. That’s how I do it at most Costco near me.
Reasonable-Spare-788@reddit
Offset
tnj4ez@reddit
Enter at other end of lot, go behind the store, come up parallel to the dock, go inside ask which dock door, pull up towards street, swing tail towards the dock door.. back up. Depending on what time you deliver those cars may not be there.
shadowmib@reddit
Here's how I would do it. Basically drive around then do an offset back into the dock. https://imgur.com/a/WlVabPf
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
this is most likely what ill do. thank you for the help.
guestquest88@reddit
Like 3 different ways, at least......
bmf1989@reddit
If it’s possible to go around and blindside offset in that’d probably be the easiest thing to do.
If not you can either back off the street or pull in to the right side of the docks and slowly back up perpendicular in front of the docks looking out for dumb four wheelers and pull up towards where you came in and set up a sight side back.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i aint blindsiding it’s too many dumb ass cars or ppl i could hit. ill go around the building, get parallel to the dock then back in from the street like everyone else said.
Savagemocha@reddit
Carefully
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
real shit
Deep-Echidna-3331@reddit
You gotta fucking be kidding me!!!!
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
maybe i am
JakeJascob@reddit
Come from the opposite side so ur back is already towards the door pull into the street hook it and back up. If a cop stops u and complains tell him he can get in the cab and do it
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
damn cops get mad if you’re blocking traffic & trying to get into the dock?!
JakeJascob@reddit
Eh not always depends on the cop vast majority will look at you like wtf then realize ur trying to get in a door then go about their day
ConsiderationOk7139@reddit
Easy
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
k
cwreck01@reddit
Backing into it is the most common and efficient way to. Makes unloading easier.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
interesting.
JesusWasFisted@reddit
If this is challenging, you're an amateur.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i am an amateur im four months in. you would’ve known that if you read the caption throughly.
nastyzoot@reddit
I would come in sight side and just back in. This dock couldn't be any easier.
OptionAmazing@reddit
Tucker Ga?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
nah sacramento, ca
915tacomadre@reddit
Street
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
interesting.
47junk@reddit
That looks like in Reno area.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
nah it’s sacramento
Proof_Toe_9757@reddit
Ummmmm... Reverse?! 🤨😂
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
read the caption plz
Moist_Position_9462@reddit
My thought would be to coming in close to your left and as you approach your spot veer off toward that driveway and use it to get into your 45 degree so you can start backing in. Idk that’s my thought process but all I have driven so far are yard trucks and daycabs.
ps4kratos@reddit
Lots of room, blind side it in. Or back in off the road
Inside-Bedroom-5860@reddit
Not a trucker. If you get there early those cars in front of the Costco shouldn't be there. Thus you will have all that room to work.
stripperjnasty@reddit
Pull up and back in?
Asylus72@reddit
Have you tried backing into it? Heard that works pretty good if that doesn't work pull a Swift Fastball Special and turn so hard and fast into the driveway you roll over and then you don't have to deliver lol
Deep-in-Thots@reddit
You scared of a little blind side ? Just pull out into that street and stay close to the trailer on your side .
theminnesoregonian@reddit
When you're on the job, no one judges you for how many times you pull forward. The only person driving your truck is you. Do what you gotta do. Fuck everyone else.
Deep-in-Thots@reddit
How long you been driving bro ?
Existing_Meeting_318@reddit
Just drive like they are not there
Culture_Cloud_Clout@reddit
From the street
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
k
TellTaleTimeLord@reddit
Pray.
But nah, for real, back in from the street
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lol ok
TellTaleTimeLord@reddit
Yeah don't be afraid to do stuff like that. Sometimes you have no choice.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
true true
BowlerLive8820@reddit
I have a back up alarm with a cigarette plug and 15' of wire. You can lay it on the catwalk and plug it in when you want start your run. It works very well. Cheap too. Get a loud one, the more obnoxious the better so they can hear it inside the dock when you bump the pads and let her whine a bit.
Browncoatinabox@reddit
Did Costco outa SLC awhile back these places have more room than you think. That being said looks like you might have some room if you angle towards the road to back in
Gore1695@reddit
Looks pretty easy if you nose in to the left and alley dock
DustyShadow@reddit
Its the best in the dark and a couple drivers get right on your nose with headlights and flashers on while you are trying to back in.
Intelligent-Site7686@reddit
I was at a Costco like that recently in Laguna... I came in, whipped a u, then backed in quick. I ended up sitting at dock for hours. A lady in a Lexus did that arm pump for the horn st me, that was kind of funny and brightened my day. They ended up unloading me an hour and a half past my dock appointment time
jericho458slr@reddit
That looks pretty easy actually. The first thing I do as I enter proximity is to start scanning for “how is I gonna do dis”. And I prefer the easiest way first because my philosophy is that the easier a back, the more attention I can give to situational awareness.
So number one would be coming down the side of the building, kink kink and you almost have a straight line back (coming out into that feeder side street). I already saw another two ways I would try but they would only occur if I could not initiate from the side of the building.
Rebelborn357@reddit
Loop through the lot, poke out into the street a bit, back in with lots of honks
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
that’s what everyone seems to be saying. i just wanted to see if someone saw a different way to get into the dock.
Rebelborn357@reddit
Not much room in the street for an easy set up, plus that would be a long back in all the way from the street. Lots of time for idiot 4-wheelers to sneak around behind you. Coming through the parking lot first you can block their path while you set up.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
that’s true. that be the problem is stopping traffic.
Rebelborn357@reddit
I've had people run over my charged propane hose while I'm filling the tank for their home. They're fucking retards bro.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao nah for their home?! ppl really are idiots.
Rebelborn357@reddit
Yes for their home. I was parked in their driveway, stretched the hose across the yard to fill the tank and rather than wait 5 minutes or ask me to move or whatever dude just ran over the hose in his yard. I flipped out on him. My hose has upto 200 psi of liquid propane, 150 feet of hose holds about 7 gallons. Like 6 different types of stupid and dangerous for both me and him
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
damn that’s crazy. im happy it didn’t end badly.
FileCareless@reddit
If back in off the street but if the street wasn’t there the I’d drive down the side of the building and pretty much do a 180 or double 90. Don’t worry just take your time and you’ll get use to it.
AndromedanPrince@reddit
i see 2 ways, idknwhere ur approach is from. u can get close to the dock and do a sight side alley dock, or pull into the strert and back almost straight into it.
either way see if a dock worker will spot u to keep traffic out the way.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i was thinking the 2nd option by going around the building first.
Dognamedgranpa@reddit
I’d do this as well, also fuck Sacramento drivers in general bro they can’t merge for shit lol
AndromedanPrince@reddit
2nd option is a bit easier, always take the easy way out.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
in trucking ill always take the easy way out. thank you for your help.
MainInternational824@reddit
Back in from the street
confusedbystupidity@reddit
Out to the street and back it on up... easy...
King_Thundernutz@reddit
Either back in from the street or see if you can come from the rear parallel to the trailers.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
copy.
Cl9Clapo@reddit
Ocean pussy space. An over view would’ve been a better view
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
uhh ok
Loki_Kore@reddit
Pull forward to front of building. Blind to where the trailers are, but just keep a jack knifed angle till you can pull your nose towards the exit, then you are set for a sight side back. LTL, we get these from time to time, it's not too bad. I looked up Sat veiw, and that's how I would do it. If you need, you could also blind into the side area, though you just gotta be slower in case cars are there
HowlingWolven@reddit
Easy offset back.
Independent-Fun8926@reddit
Come in from the entrance directly across from the Costco Gas. Then make my way around the building. Make sure my tandems are all the way forward to clear the tight right around the building, by that dumpster.
Alternatively, back in off the street. Had to do that for a Walmart once, middle of the day, somewhere in Denver. Blast the horn when you start backing. People may not notice you setting up to back.
Go slow, watch for idiots. It's why they pay you big bucks for store delivery, right? Lol
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lol you right you right but them 4 wheelers & pedestrians make me nervous. but ill do what you said. thanks for the advice.
Independent-Fun8926@reddit
They always made me nervous as shit too. I always hated having to drive anywhere near the main parking lot or pass the entrances. Clear your A-pillars before moving if you stop. Had a pedestrian start walking in front of me one time, completely in the blindspot of the pillar. Luckily saw them last second before I accelerated. Completely oblivious.
Good luck, be safe
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
appreciate it.
JapaneseFender@reddit
I’m only 10 months in and I’ve been to far worse Costcos. If I couldn’t pull around for a sight side I’d just pull up onto the road and straight back it. Just move slowly and gently bully the 4 wheelers as needed.
amazingmaple@reddit
Jesus Christ. How the fuck do some of you get your license. If you don't know how to get into that dock, this job isn't for you.
Jimjam916@reddit
Paper?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeap paper towels & toilet paper.
Jimjam916@reddit
I'm doing the same thing. Out of Halsey, yeah?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeap
HeywoodJaBlowMe123@reddit
Back it in from the street is your best bet like someone else said.
Any chance you can get there before costco opens? Less cars parked would help your case here.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
nah my appointment is at 3pm
E-emu89@reddit
In my experience, Costco is pretty flexible when you are early. It’s when you are late is when matters get worse.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
that’s true.
No-Flight5639@reddit
Wait till night
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i wish i could.
nwhite35@reddit
Oh shit, I've done this delivery. If you swing around back, and swing like you're gonna hang a left out that driveway, it's a pretty easy back from there. They usually have you go into dock 1 or 2. Not too bad, except the customers being stupid around you.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
omg it be them customers. they be acting like costco finna close in 5 seconds. but i’ll definitely go around the building again. i just wanted to see if anyone saw a different way of getting into the dock.
nwhite35@reddit
Yeah, that one sucks the worst I think. Couple different ways, but that way always worked for me. You work for may?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeah i do
nwhite35@reddit
They're a pretty reasonable company. Solid choice. Stay safe out there driver.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you & you as well.
kennnnnnnny@reddit
It may have been said in a previous response but I would pull in right next to the dock, back around the corner then turn again as if you were leaving the way you came in. You’ll now be turned around with your trailer doors facing the dock.
AvailableCurrency109@reddit
Google map satellite view is your best friend. Next time come around the back of the building and back right in.
AspNSpanner@reddit
Same as the last 3 guys.
ComprehendReading@reddit
Yeah but all those guys had their tractors stolen! /S
komokazi@reddit
Gonna need to cast some black magic
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
you gotta spell in mind?
E-emu89@reddit
If it helps, I always try to make Costco deliveries as early in the day as I can. Not a lot of customers at 7am.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i wish i could but my appointment isn’t till 3pm.
TheBuddha777@reddit
Cal Expo? Pull in through the parking lot and go around the building so you're facing the right way. The pull up into the street and back in.
BoostedLexus@reddit
I've been here, I had to blind side because of cars coming in. If I could do it over again I'd start with backing up from the street
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeah when i 1st did it i almost blind sided but i didn’t feel comfortable doing that. so i went around the building & that’s how i got into the dock. i just wanted to pick ppls brains & see if there was a better way to do it.
tinkdatank@reddit
Either back in from the street or pull up along the wall on the opposite side of the trailers and do a full 180° turnaround and back
meizhong@reddit
I drew a small map, can't share pictures here. Whatever.
mynameisaframe@reddit
Pull in past the docks and do a 180 back or back in from the street
Mr_BinJu@reddit
90° or straight back. I believe the choice is obvious
bob696988@reddit
Do a 45 sight side plenty of room there
Vino1980@reddit
Ez Peezee. Those cars won't be there when you deliver. You're going to have to back in at an angle fron that street exit. You can always look at what the other trucks do or ask them how the trucks usually back in.
roytwo@reddit
Difficulty level 1, pull in to the driveway across the street, a straight back across the street into the dock
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
you right you right. i honestly didn’t even think about pulling into the driveway across the street. that looks way easier.
SubstantialWonder409@reddit
Hi, I work Costco dedicated. This is what I'd do at this store. Costco Entrance
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
thank you so much.
Murkdonalds@reddit
Which direction are you entering? What’s the address of the Costco so I Google map it?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
1600 Expo Pkwy, Sacramento, CA 95815
Murkdonalds@reddit
I’d come in with the nose of the truck facing west. Sight side back in off the street or if it’s not hella busy, pull into the drive of that Residence Inn and cautiously back into costco’s driveway or dock. Cut your 4 ways on and blow your horn like a fire truck. Should be a breeze lol
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao like a fire truck.
J-Rag-@reddit
This is the route I'd take
https://imgur.com/gallery/Eojgjwx
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
yeah that’s what i did last time. thank you tho.
J-Rag-@reddit
No problem. Usually stores like Costco and Walmart have a drive for trucks built in mind. Just stick to the main drive and you'll be fine. But always check the satellite view on your GPS and make your route well before you arrive. Some stores might be set up a little funky where the best entrance for trucks might be tucked back and not super obvious.
theberg512@reddit
1600 Expo Pkwy, Sacramento, CA 95815
Longjumping-Shine-70@reddit
Turn while backing?
InvadurZim00@reddit
Holy shit 🙏 if you can’t figure that out you gotta get out the truck homie
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i can tell you didn’t read my post at all. read the post throughly & come back to me.
MCryptoWars@reddit
That’s easy. You can do it in a few different ways. As long as you can control traffic and not let it control you, then you will always be good. I’ve backed in a two way street before into an alley way by forcing traffic to stop by blocking both lanes with my trailer. Once I secured the street by stopping all vehicles, then I pay extra attention to the people walking around the sidewalks and streets.
biggame2124@reddit
When u start driving last week?
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i said 4 months
biggame2124@reddit
Missed it. Just pull into the street and back from there. Flashers and blow your horn
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
copy.
biggame2124@reddit
Yup
CapitanPino@reddit
Either back off the street or set up a 90 using the sparking lot space and hopefully there wont be too many MOVING cars when you get there.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
this bro, it be the customers like impatiently trying to get into costco. that be pissing me off like i be wishing they go use a different entrance.
CapitanPino@reddit
If you dont give af like me... i blocked off a whole pathway with an empty trailer to make my life easier. Yes its a bit more hassle but having the confidence that at least one pathway wont have dumbasses coming and sneaking up on you helps.
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
lmao that’s some real dgaf behavior.
Redsoxdragon@reddit
It looks a lot more intimidating than it actually is. It's plenty wide. Hug the wall and turn out into the street. It's just a parallel manuvre. You just gotta be on your toes about impatient slapnuts
Opposite-Swim6040@reddit
Wait till 4am
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
i wish my appointment is at 3pm
justaguytrynadie@reddit
This one isn’t hard at all. Pull into the street until you’re nearly straight then inch ur way into the spot. Flashers on, lay on the horn, GOAL
Mr-EddyTheMac@reddit
Back off the street, or pull in and nose out of the entrance/exit and back up. Just stay away from those cars 100%
colbsk1@reddit
Drive around the store so your trailer is already positioned to dock... then back that ass in.
Quiet-Star@reddit
For most Costcos, you can go around the building and then use that driveway to make your way back into the dock.
JRock1276@reddit
Back up
UncleBensMushies@reddit
From the street
LT-buttnaked@reddit
Practice makes perfect
thebatman0213@reddit (OP)
no doubt like i said im four months in. i just wanted to see if ppl had a better way to get into the dock.
RoadAegis@reddit
Go ahead and Use that Street for an Offset diagonal Park. It's what I'd do
FantasticAd410@reddit
Look and see if you can go around and be parallel with the dock and do a little blindside back. If that won’t work, maybe come thru the parking lot in front of the docks, cut in toward the dock and go out toward the street and blindside it. Or like others said, back it in off the street
Outside_Squirrel_839@reddit
Turn of 4 ways and back in off street blowing your horn
EquivalentNo4244@reddit
Definitely gonna have to hit a passenger side offset. Start your rig from that entrance/exit right there then start backing. Get out and look if needed but be careful