Trucking is not for me.
Posted by Substantial_Smile267@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 289 comments
In my second week of training. It took me 3 hours to parallel park inside the lines and cones. After that I went home an hour early. I’m supposed to go back tomorrow but I’m rethinking my decision on taking this class at my local community college.
Gonnahauntcha@reddit
It also took me more than two hours to parallel park lol. I said the same it's not for me but I didn't know what else to do I was tired of minimum wage. But 4 years later I'm pretty good at it
East-Translator8293@reddit
Get out now before its too late. Find a good union skilled trade.
Substantial_Smile267@reddit (OP)
There’s not a shortage of trades. Don’t know why this advice keeps floating around
East-Translator8293@reddit
What are you talking about?
CryptoInvestor87@reddit
Backing is the hardest thing you’ll learn to do. I’m in TNT training with Prime. Went through PSD to get my CDL, did the maneuvers to pass the exam, 3 weeks in and I’m still struggling with backing. I’ve made progress but it still needs work. Take your time, some people just get it quicker than others. I know a guy who passed same day I did and he talks like his backing is amazing. It’s a new thing. Cars don’t have trailers. It’s just something you have to get better at the more you do it and hope you have a trainer who can explain it to you properly
PathMuch@reddit
I've been driving for literally DECADES and I STILL have days that I look like a stone rookie backing up... Go slow...get out and look...don't overthink it..above all else BE SAFE.. You'll get it.. Safe travels..
JaxxyFur@reddit
THIS! Some days your a super trucker slipping in first try next day your backing like you've got your CDL outta the cereal box
Artyom_33@reddit
○ be me, last February, backing into a shitty alley dock near the green line in Chicago
○ nail it with 3 pull ups, stroke my cock because it's hard like diamond
○ be me, 2 weeks later
○ blindside back my truck into another shitty dock, as Avenue of Approach was accessible 1 way due to downed powerline from the opposite direction
○ pat myself on the back of my bald head, while a daycare driver gives a smile & thumbs up, knowing that's a challenging maneuver for a sleeper cab
○ be me, 1 week later
○ takes 20 minutes to back into a wide open dock in a near-empty Procter & Gamble distribution center, a D.C. so big you could land a C130 & have room for the USS Missouri to parallel park in
Yo chat, am I brain damaged?
VenaticGnu60@reddit
It's ok I got one better Be me-around 8 months ago. -setup is a jobsite. -sight side into driveway, then have to blindside around a dumpster while dodging a concrete retaining wall brick (48-foot spread axle with sleeper intertrashional) - get around the dumpster with this nightmare S-maneuver and get the trailer into the 10-foot wide bay door for the off load site - grand total of 3 pulls up for the entire maneuver. Full mast I could chock my tires with the chub.
We've all got those days bro. Days I'm super trucker and can't blindside around the corner with 4 inches of room (ask me how I measured) while watching v for vendetta, other days I have to hop out and make sure I'm not hitting a thing 15 times with 90 feet in front the truck during a straight back tk make sure I didn't hit the guy beside me cause it's just not my day
ICanSowYouTheWay@reddit
I hate when the brain just decides that it's giving up and its muscles that got to pick up the slack. Ever got into your car and gone to push in the clutch and grab 1st then remember that your cars an automatic???
JaggaJatt13@reddit
100% every time. Worse is forgetting your car doesn’t have Jake brakes.
ICanSowYouTheWay@reddit
LMFAO that instant panic of why am I not slowing down yet🤣
Artyom_33@reddit
No. I'm an auto transmission mongoloid.
But I have slapped the signal down thinking I was getting an engine brake.🙂🙃🫠🫥
mjkjr84@reddit
For real a wide open dock is always the hardest for some dumb reason. Like give me something to hit if I fuck up and I'm fine. No risk no reward lol
SexMachine666@reddit
Hahaha! I feel that and have absolutely done that. Made me feel like a Swift driver 🤣
waadidas1@reddit
I've done that with whipers haha
RothonTalvanen@reddit
Gods, it really is like that.
One of my favorite examples that happened to myself; had to back into a spot at a super tight warehouse, one of those ones that was obviously designed for 48-foot trailers or even shorter. Had maybe a couple inches between my trailer and the one next to me, and the same between my nose and the truck across from me. Made it first try, no problem at all.
A few hours later, it took me 20 minutes to back into a wide open dock at a massive facility with nothing around me for ages. Needed to reset more times than I can remember, and nearly smacked the trailers across from me with my nose.
AesthetesStephen@reddit
It’s always the easy ones that are the hardest. Wide open lot but I don’t have any lines to guide me and I’m jacknifed with my nose on the dock. Blind side backing between in a 12’ hole with utility lines on either side and a building across the alley and I nail it every shot (day cab idk about sleeper).
DirkVonDirk@reddit
6 years in, can handle any backing scenario. I have a place that I go to every Friday, its a big open lot with plenty of room, I don’t have to bump the dock, I just have to square off with the door to run a ramp. Every. Single. Week. It takes me like 6 pull ups to eventually just give up and then run the ramp crooked. I’m not sure wtf my problem is and I honestly just find it funny, if somewhat time consuming at this point. And I’m positive it’s going to happen again when I go tomorrow.
prairiecowboy90@reddit
It's usually when you're cocky it seems too. Sitting there waiting for someone to back up and wondering why it's taking them so long, then you do it and it takes you 13 tries, 15 mins, and circling around to reset 😂
astrobuc@reddit
Man this is so true for everyone. So many variables that can make an easy back into a 20 minute experience. Lighting, fatigue, the other trucks parked weird. But experience says don’t hurry.
Madmagician1303@reddit
i was gonna have to say this if nobody else did. We all have a day when you just can't get straight or you wind up an inch off and dock plate won't come up. Wait til its 2a and you have to back into dark dock with no lines to guide you. Like where im at right now. One of the dock bumpers is missing so im not sure im exactly 90° to building. No lines and it rained so no old tire track to follow. This got to thinking how few lots I see have lines anymore. Must be yellow paint shortage.
jserpette95@reddit
I tell all my students, there's gonna be days you can't back up and hit the broad side of a barn, there's gonna be days where shifting is hard like it's your second day in the truck, then, there's gonna be days where you can't do both and you're wondering how the fuck you got your CDL in the first place. Shit happens, you'll be fine, go slow, GOAL, relax, don't over think and everything will work out.
DieselPunk97@reddit
I tell my trainees this.
I’ve talked to PLENTY of guys who have been backing for decades like yourself and they all say something pretty similar. Sometimes you get it in first shot and others you’ll take 20 times 😂 skill is understanding that you won’t get it on your first try but that you WILL get it eventually and safely.
Specialist-End1040@reddit
Don’t give up!!
Not_all_cows_moo@reddit
Best to do it in a parking lot where there are cones and not other vehicles or buildings. You'll get it. Takes time.
Late-Statistician690@reddit
One day the shit will just click... trust me
jose_guapo_@reddit
Damn 3 hours? You must really have some of the most patient and bad instructors 😂 but really though, stick it out, it gets super easy with time. Try watching YouTube videos on how to maneuver the trailer with specific steering wheel movements. Remember small steering wheel moves make big trailer movements
VoodooOffRoad@reddit
Me either… but here I am 28 years later.. 🤷♂️🤣
purpleflowercoconut@reddit
Why not see it through until you complete training? What if you just had a bad day? Everyone has to get over this learning curve.
007MRPERFECT007@reddit
Follow your gut ! They not know what they are teaching broski ! Sign your life away to Schneider because CDL school aint cheap . Ya get what ya pay for
GoBeWithYourFamily@reddit
Stick with it bubba
Majestic_Mousse_7937@reddit
You’ll be a supertrucker in no time
Excellent-Draft-5516@reddit
It probably won’t take you three hours ever again.
offsetbackingtoright@reddit
When a Swift driver doesn't GOAL and gouges into your trailer backing into his spot at the truckstop do you think he quits ? No, he pulls forward and does it again. He doesn't stop until your trailer is opened up like a can of cat food, only then does he stop to go wash his feet in the sink.
Mediocre_Ice_8846@reddit
Wash his feet in the sink!! 🤣🤣🤣
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
True to life, I’ve seen the footage.
Davey_boy_777@reddit
Walked in on it irl. Can confirm.
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
Ewwwww, absolutely fucking disgusting. The nerve of some people.
Kbug7201@reddit
At least they have clean feet.
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
Thanks for sharing. I guess I can wash my feet in the sink at your house. You are a real piece of work.
Kbug7201@reddit
Was just trying to look at the good side of things. Too much negativity in the world these days not to.
If you come to my house, you can use the actual shower.
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
Sorry, guess I was in a mood earlier. Yes, too much negativity.
Kbug7201@reddit
No worries, man. Just try to lighten up. Shit is too serious on a daily. Social media needs to be a place where we go to relax, have fun, & de-stress, not get more worked up.
I take a couple days away from social media prob every week or so. It's nice to step away when it's getting to be too much.
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
Amen. Thank you.
Kbug7201@reddit
The footage -of him washing his feet in the sink? 😂
Kortobowden@reddit
Reminds me of a Schneider trailer I saw somewhere that had the entire side completely torn off. Seemed like someone hooked up and immediately started turning and just ripped the whole side off. I only saw the after but it was pretty crazy.
Kbug7201@reddit
That was Schneider trying to turn that trailer into a curtain side. Lol
Beginning-World-1235@reddit
This sounds more like a Chicago company to me 🤣❤️
smellyjerk@reddit
Superego?
LadyTrukka404@reddit
WOWZERS‼️😳
Peterbiltpiper@reddit
Then it puts the lootian on or it gets the hose.
SigynVS@reddit
You're my hero!
Natural-Tomatillo338@reddit
You forgot the tractor he runs into when he’s pulling forward as hes not paying attention.
Quiet_Molasses_3362@reddit
I feel bad for making it the 70th like
Turbulent_Event6871@reddit
Backing was a major issue for me. Even called my woman crying about it. But you have to stick with it. I went from that to becoming a trainer and a damn good driver.
Crispy--Toast@reddit
I back into the same type of area (one of 3 tippers at a landfill for unloading trash from an open-top trailer) and sometimes I need to reset 5+ times. Same with the people who have been working there as long as I've been alive. It will come to you, and sometimes it will feel like whatever move you make messes up the situation more somehow.
Get out and look. Don't get flustered, take some time outside the truck to make a plan. You can use cones, stop blocks, or even rocks or trash to make indicators you can see in your mirror for when to start turning, when you're running out of space, etc.
Make 'S' turns. When positioning, try to save at least a few feet to turn in the opposite direction. EG, if you need to point your trailer left, turn right to position the trailer, then cut the wheel all the way left to line up with the trailer. If you just keep backing and going forward with your wheel turned all the way right you'll never change the position of your trailer.
TiredofTrucking@reddit
I hated it for two years and then finally landed my dream gig! It gets better and easier. Go with your gut though.
J_cam202@reddit
I had this same feeling when we started driving in my CDL school. I didn’t pick up the shifting very fast. Neither with backing. 3 years later I’m a local trucker and making a decent living for myself. Im glad I stuck it out.
Quirky_Science_6584@reddit
I was the last in my class to get the straight back. I remember waking up in cold sweat on the last day of the week, I looked at my phone and thought “I wonder if the post office is hiring so i can stop going to school”. That day I got the straight back down, and became one of the better drivers. I got my CDL last week. Can’t wait to feel stupid on the road while getting paid. Gotta look stupid to get good at stuff, as long as you don’t mess up too bad haha
VenaticGnu60@reddit
Few rules I've picked up over the 5 years I've been in this job. - don't be afraid to ask questions, even if you ask the same question 15 times (I deliver to jobsites quite a lot in the flatbed world). Better to be the dumbass in the right spot than the dumbass in the wrong spot. - if you have to ask yourself "can I fit?" you probably can't fit. - don't be the super trucker turning the wheel 17 times back and forth left and right. Do yaself a favor and figure out how the trailer maneuvers. (if you've got the space: turn the wheel a little bit, let the trailer track how it will, correct as needed. You'll be much better at backing) -take pictures of EVERY FUCKING THING. Minor damage to side of trailer etc? Document it before moving. Don't let them blame it on you. - keep spare equipment, never too much spare equipment. You use straps? Have twice as many as you will probably need. You'll use em sooner or later. Better too much than too little/ better to not need and have than to need and not have. - know your limits, get some little things to keep you occupied. If you cant stay awake/not feeling well/ etc. Don't push it. Pull over until you feel better. No load is worth your life. Dispatch trying to push you? Go over there head and refer to safety. Quote to them "I do not feel as if I'm in safe working conditions to do the job safely" throw the word safe around all the damn time fuck em. I had guys tell me to roll 500 miles with a fucked air tank. Their orders fuck with your license. Your livelihood.
Careful_Variety9492@reddit
If the load looks fucked don't be afraid to say something. Better to be the asshole to say no to a fucked load than to take the fucked load and get fucked along the way.
DOT is not nice when you've fucked up but DOT is nicer to those who follow the rules and guidelines.
lordyarom@reddit
Also If you feel unsafe. Tell them to put it in writing that they require you to continue. They will always back down at that.
curryshotzz@reddit
same here but 2 and a half and make way mroe then OTR and get to see my kids everyday its worth it
TruckinTuba@reddit
Give it some time, the way the explain in training doesn't always work, it's often just the quickest way to get your license, you'll learn as you drive what works for you
supergoosetaco@reddit
It be like that sometimes. you’ll get better!
EntireAd233@reddit
Don't give up give it some time you've already paid for it I know what's confusing you is these teachers and textbooks is hollering about angles and degrees scratch that visualize what you wanted it to do you can even get one of those little toy trucks and visualize your maneuver
Affectionate_Cow3170@reddit
I struggled too, but hang in there and finish. It’s always difficult when you have to learn something you’re unfamiliar with. I almost gave up too, but now I drive a 10 wheeler dump truck
GrumpyOldMike@reddit
I went from learning in a truck and trailer and driving one for years, I could put one anywhere most guys could put a semi, to pulling a semi. Everything is backwards to a semi. F me running, it took forever for me to be able to back up a 40 footer🤣😂
drunkcarebear@reddit
If this is the reverse offset, my instructor told me to think of the early days in gaming. The cheat code is left, right, right, left. You can also make pizza slices with your landing gear.
artoftheflatlands@reddit
Give yourself a break! Have you ever driven a truck before? Stop thinking you will be an expert in minutes. Stop overthinking what you are doing.
roadie1569@reddit
In my 7 years I’ve never parallel parked besides school. I don’t even know if I could now.
lookatthatdeer@reddit
I dont always parallel park but when I have to....I just double park cars and throw my hazards on
WilyNGA@reddit
When I started offset backing I almost ended up in the woods. I was so mad!
All I can say is that it gets better and starts to come more naturally. Stay safe and one day it will just start to click.
I drove 53' dry van, flatbed, and ultimately food and fuel tankers.
Perseverance.
Danger_Mauz@reddit
I think you are being anxious. And, being anxious creates more mistakes. Please, keep your mind on the moment. When the anxiousness starts popping up, then set your eyes on the mirrors. If you didn't adjust your mirrors. Then, adjust them. This move will take your focus back to the truck. Then, look at the pedals. Because, you have to make sure before you begin, to make sure you put your foot on the pedal before releasing your brakes. And, on and on. These things will help you take your focus away from the doubts. Because, reality is, you had similar challenges with parallel parking. But, you didn't give up. You sat there and you looked at the mirrors to make sure you could see. You remember how you felt in high school when you got behind the wheel and you pulled through it. And, you will get through this, too.
boibetterstop@reddit
Shit took me the longest time to figure out how to parallel park for the test
BAMFA1812@reddit
It’s not easy in the beginning. The brain doesn’t when going backwards. I use to chant to myself “left to go right, right to go left”. It’s like a motorcycle with its counter steering. It took me maybe 3 months on the job for the process to click in. But when you get it, oh boy, you get it.
APizzaWithEverything@reddit
100% I do it without thinking about it, and if I think about what way I have to turn, I mess it up every time
ThatOneHelldiver@reddit
I corrected this by holding my hand at the bottom of the steering wheel. School tonight is to hold hand at the top.
Holding your hand at the bottom corrects the left vs right bs.
Move your hand to the left, the trailer goes left but in reality the wheel is going to the right.
Cenix@reddit
I know you've got the hang of this already but in case a new driver needs a tip look at your steering wheel. When you're moving forward the top half of the wheel turns in the way you would expect it to go, when you're moving backwards the bottom half of the wheel turns in the way the trailer will go.
If you're stuck and getting frustrated just look at the wheel to help.
Professional_Trade45@reddit
I got this same advice many, many years ago and I still think about it every day when I'm backing.
LucHighwalker@reddit
I thought your username was cervix for a good minute.
Niko120@reddit
I used to imagine a Birds Eye view above me looking down. Imagine the trucks wheels turned one way and which way that will make the truck turn, then which way that will make the trailer go. Idk, it helped me
quackl11@reddit
This is the same as adding spin to billiards. If you're adding right spin to the cue ball it shoots the object ball left, and vice versa
TheIzzyRock@reddit
I struggled so much. My brain just couldn’t get it and I was constantly over thinking. Once I watched my tandems and targeted towards the line, it became so much better.
LucHighwalker@reddit
Overthinking it was a big part for me too. Constantly over correcting and making the wrong moves because I talked myself out of the right move. Once I stopped thinking about how I'm going to do this and just start driving the trailer, things got so much easier.
LucHighwalker@reddit
Can confirm. It took me 3 months too for it to really finally click. I my 4th month now and I feel like I can get into any spot now (slowly).
RealSharpNinja@reddit
Yesterday I found myself needing to do a textbook offset and my brain immediately went to Lionel Ritchie Sings Really Loud. Those mnuemonics are invaluable.
BTeamTN@reddit
?
RealSharpNinja@reddit
Lionel Ritchie Sings Really Loud
LRSRL
Left Right Straigjt Right Left
NoLyfe_Trader@reddit
Then you get into a double and you have to rewire again 🤣 after years of driving you go from one to another after a long stint and even i sit for a moment and go... "what have i got on again?!" OP needs to be easier on himself. 3 hours practising a new skill is perfectly fine!
AlternativeDeer5252@reddit
It takes time and practice, also watch some videos on YouTube for parallels. One from a instructor that shows the turn points on trailer. I know it seems hard but once you get it down you’ll be fine. Also after your get your license basically just try to turn every dock into a straight back.
LadyTrucker23@reddit
30 years of driving and I had to pull up 4 times yesterday backing my dolly to my 2nd trailer. No, I hadn’t hooked my lead, just the truck and the dolly. Everyone has a bad day and if that’s the only problem you’re having, you’re doing just fine. Before you decide to quit, make a list of pro’s and con’s. The biggest reason people quit is that they don’t understand that trucking is a lifestyle, not a job. As long as you understand that, you’ve won half the battle.
chico-dust@reddit
I'm sure it's been said already but trust me when I tell you EVERYONE in this sub struggled to park as a beginner. And some could probably give you horror stories where they backed into aomeone/something.
You aren't alone there big dog. We all had a hard time at first.
Dry-One-3224@reddit
i went to truckers marine core TMC and felt the exact same way after 2 days later it clicked in my head cause 1 instructor didn't gave up on me.... still struggled but its easy as shit now.. don't give up
West_Masterpiece9423@reddit
As drivers have posted, be safe. Best backing advice: put your hands on the bottom of the steering wheel. If you want the trailer left, wheel to the left CW; if you want the trailer to the right, wheel to the right CCW. You can always do a pull up, get your hands to the bottom of the wheel and reset. Hope all goes well.
MostlyUseful@reddit
You’re not gonna get it in a day, it takes time to learn and then master the skill. Ask yourself if your willing to put in the time and effort to do this or would you rather just give up. Trucking isn’t for the weak. I’m not calling you weak, you’re having a moment of doubt. I’m asking you how much you want to do this…enough to stick it out?
LordScottimus@reddit
You are there to learn. That is the whole point. Keep at it! Practice makes perfect.
supajaboy@reddit
I had to drive 72 miles from west palm beach to Miami for my class. Multiple days on the way home I felt I made a mistake. Only practice and repetition can make u become competent at backing a trailer. Even then u still have days where it takes u forever to back into somewhere and u question your ability.
U been back cars and 4 wheelers your whole life and backing a trailer makes everything opposite, it has blind sides and it's long af. Stick with it
misfitgamma@reddit
Don’t quit please change the way you train go back to straight back then go to parallel park you are learning a new skill it is normally 2 weeks at each maneuver if you did straight back in 2 weeks that’s 5 hours a day for 2 weeks
25_Unknown_Devices@reddit
Visualize yourself from a Birds Eye view.
Hell, go buy a toy tracker trailer and practice with that.
If you keep letting yourself think about quitting. That’s what you’re gonna do.
I grew up scared of heights. I took a job 800 miles from home, construction. Bills were passed due, wife was losing faith in me.
I get there, and am told for the first time that I’d be taking a boom lift 80 ft up in the air.
Turns out I was more scared to call my wife and tell her I was too much of a chicken. Learned to love being up there.
25_Unknown_Devices@reddit
Rule of thumb!! If you did a certain combination of movements, and that didn’t work. Don’t repeat that same set of movements.
I remember watching folks do it in school, and watching them do it at the truck stop.
They’ll basically be edging the parking spot for 15 minutes repeating the same motion trying to figure out what they’re doing wrong.
“You’ve got to turn left to go right”
Mr_Adaptivee@reddit
You have to give yourself time to get good at it, took me 6 months before I even felt a whiff of confidence. But now I can go anywhere at anytime with no worries, confidence is fucking key to trucking, that and GOAL. You’ll be fine
Steve10455@reddit
Bro i might have been the worst driver to train BUT I had hope and determination. Eventually it click for me but hey whatever your decision is…. I wish you success and happiness in the coming years
disasterplatter@reddit
I literally had trainers ask me if something was wrong with my eyes. It took me forever, but once it clicks you're golden. Now I'm the one showing newer coworkers how to back. Don't give up.
247world@reddit
The first thing you need to know is you're not going to parallel park very often. It's one of those things where you can find another way you do it the other way.
I was in your shoes when I went to truck driving school. Parallel parking drove me crazy, I could barely straight back let alone Ally doc. And then we started going forward on public streets having to keep that huge vehicle in one lane as well as double clutching to shift. Thank goodness I was young and had a strong heart
My first year I was a White knuckle driver, I could have ran head on into a bridge and I wouldn't let go in that steering wheel.
I've been out here 30 years, and I'm really going to miss it when I retire. See the course through, you probably already paid for it so get your money's worth. Don't give up too easily, it's a tough job but once you learn it you be amazed how easy it is
Brilliant-Machine-22@reddit
Nothing is more embarrassing than giving up. Don't leave till they make ya. "They never write stories of cowards." A friend told me this the other day. Advice from her Father.
Substantial_Smile267@reddit (OP)
Quitting is not necessarily cowardice behavior.
Lokisworkshop@reddit
Go slow and a little is a lot. Use your mirrors and keep your head inside the truck.
Emergency_Ad1152@reddit
Brother, if you sent any of us out there to do the parallel park, a lot of us wouldn’t make it on the first try. You’re only going to do that once in a while and if you do, you have unlimited tries, just take your time and don’t hit anything.
Impossible_Staff1507@reddit
Practice makes perfect! It took awhile for my co drivers to get the parking. With practice and patience you will get it! Don't get discouraged so easy! You can do it
ThatOneHelldiver@reddit
I fucked up parallel parking during my test but not during training lol
Little dud the instructor testing me know, I knew how many points I was allowed to miss. It was 13. I used 11 lmao
Got my CDL and to this day, I haven't had to parallel parking. Ever...
No_Play_7154@reddit
Don't give up we all suck in the beginning I was one of the worst ones in my class and im getting really good now that I'm working an actual job..all the stuff they teach you in school isnt relevant in the real world
mikeamendola2236@reddit
I bet you try it again tomorrow and get it within 10 minutes. This would happen to me when I was training. Also been driving for 3 and half years and not once have I ever had to parallel park.
Few_Jacket845@reddit
Stick out out. In the right job it's worth it. And shit still happens. I just fucked up the hub cap and lug covers on my shiny brand new Kenworth by backing into something on a construction site to dump.
Told my boss about it, owned responsibility, offered to replace them if necessary out of my own pocket. Doubt I'll have to, just saying it is worth a lot.
polarjunkie@reddit
Listen, in 3 years you're going to be parallel parking with a missing mirror while having two conversations on two different Bluetooth headsets and streaming on TikTok and you're going to slide in easier than p diddy's boyfriends in his wives. It'll be all right.
PsychologicalFood780@reddit
Just like anything else, it takes practice. You can't just give up on something because you're not good at it right away.
star_gazer112@reddit
Parallel parking in a semi is never gonna happen. Ever. I've never used it, hell I never got tested on that maneuver, and no one I know has ever been tested on it or ever used it. It's a useless backing skill that needs to go away because there's never an appropriate time to parallel park 100 feet of massive vehicle. Just take the licks and move on with training.
Icewallo_cum@reddit
Trust me it gets better. Truck driving is an acquired skill nobody just goes into this already a pro. So it’s unrealistic to feel like you shouldn’t be struggling this much. Just take it day by day. Pay attention to how the trailer moves when you turn that steering wheel. Learn its breaking points and goodness sakes get out & look if you have too.
Once you become a pro (which will eventually happen) always help those struggling to park. Don’t become a super trucker, arrogant p.o.s
Remember how you started.
Crazy-Stop2808@reddit
It gets easier for the most part, may be just me but after 5 years I still have my days where parking/backing takes me forever and just can’t seem to get it right- and I guarantee my backing skills are top notch!
Jak_Nobody@reddit
It takes a lot of time to figure this stuff out at first. Don't be discouraged. It's counterintuitive when you're backing a trailer up, so it takes time to unlearn and then relearn.
Keep at it.
Rollerriz@reddit
Turn towards your problem helped me a lot. I had one instructor really break parallel parking down to a science got me. Ask a lot of questions. Keep trying you’ll get it.
ilostoriginalaccount@reddit
Kinda f*cked they're stressing you out about parallel parking. You should learn how to do it, but you need to get good at everything else first. Parallel parking a trailer is more about instinctual awareness that develops over time; Don't let it get you down on its own.
maddpsyintyst@reddit
Don't sweat it.
Parallel parking is the hardest thing to learn to do, and very few people pass that part of the CDL test the first time--not without experience, anyway. I didn't pass that part, but I still got my CDL.
That said, parallel parking is actually not that much different from backing into a spot between two trucks. If you can do the latter, you can do the former. And if you can't... you will.
Lastly, parallel parking is something you'll do very rarely. I only ever did it in the L.A. area in certain places. Everywhere else was backing into a dock or into or out of a truck stop spot, or pulling forward into or out of a spot.
Desperate_Tourist554@reddit
42 years of over the road for the most part. Anyway sometimes the easiest docks are the hardest
Ok_Bug_6470@reddit
Truth.
Mernack64@reddit
Trucking is not easy, and think to that you can master it in two weeks is ridiculous. Even after getting my CDL it took another six months before I felt comfortable backing up. Take your time and learn and then three years down the road you’ll know what you’re doing. And even then there will be days where you’ll just look like you’ve never driven before because each dock is a different beast.
Prudent_Economics364@reddit
That's because instructors aren't teaching you how to be a truck driver. They teach the basic maneuvers and knowledge necessary to pass the test to get your CDL. Most people don't make it past "rookie" until after their first year on the road. Some learn quicker than others though and there are exceptions
Ubeerage@reddit
Just as others have said, backing a semi is not something you just learn on the fly. It takes practice and repetition! Do not get discouraged!
I thought the same thing when I went to CDL school and I SUUUCKED at it. But, I stuck it out, and now I can do it blindfolded. Don’t give up on it yet!
TruthBehindMyEyes@reddit
Promise you once it hits and you get it it becomes second nature it takes time to understand and get a feel for how the truck and trailer maneuver think about it anytime you drive a new car n it feels different it takes time give yourself some grace
Q7017@reddit
It's too early for you to tap out. A lot of people have that rut in training, but there'll be a point where everything clicks. I experienced the same.
15 years in and I'm making six figs easy.
Feral-Bullfrog@reddit
While I am a fan of try-try-again, my old man taught me, "Don't get good at something you don't wanna do." If it doesn't feel right, maybe it's not for you. But backing & parking CAN be learned, especially under the right tutelage.
Academic_Bread_5623@reddit
I think some schools are better/worse at training than others. Im at CDL school now and the line change was annoying at first. Some awesome tips from my instructor and now I have it every time. At first I was way off of the line
genosx71@reddit
Dont give up bro
needmoreroastbeef@reddit
My first month of line haul, I thought, wow I fucked up. This isn't for me. But it'll become a part of you. As far as backing and maneuvering. Some days you look like a rock star, other days you set up wrong, do 8 pull ups, and still get it crooked. The key is don't worry how many ppl are watching, we all had a first day, week, month. Stay calm and get it in without hitting anything.
ChampionshipThin8916@reddit
We all have to learn. Sports stars weren’t ready for the professional league their first couple days they picked up a ball.
The driving skill will come. The lifestyle is what you’ll have to decide later if it works for you or not. Some can be alone and away from home. Some can’t.
yeah-no-yeah-no@reddit
Don’t quite yet, it’s totally normal where you’re at.
ScaryfatkidGT@reddit
Honestly if it’s just backing catching you out it will cone with practice
Also you never “Parallel park” a tractor trailer in the real world
Zealousideal_Emu_595@reddit
7 years in and I've had to a few times
Brucenotsomighty@reddit
Im not a trucker but used to be a trailer jockey and have been through several jobs since then. Let me tell you learning a new skill like that is never easy and youre gonna make mistakes and youre gonna look stupid but you have to figure out how to use those moments as motivation to get better. I garentee there's people much dumber and uncoordinated than you out there having successful careers in trucking so just stick with it.
Throwaways1fortruth@reddit
Not if you vote Trump
kazikv@reddit
Setup is everything. Remember that, when I started I was awful until I realized this. Now I’ve been at it for 10 years.
DrunkinWhaler68@reddit
You will never parallel park out in the world in a big truck.
Kbug7201@reddit
BF had to parallel park in a Lowe's parking lot between parking lot trees so he could go across the street to get something to eat at the Subway. Not many truck stops by us. That was in his boss's Peterbuilt with a 280" wheel base if I remember right. I was with him for that ride & a few others.
acs0311@reddit
Oh yes you will. I parallel parked a loaded 13 axel last week at a Kwik Trip. Some people get into segments of the industry where parallel parking is common. Others never parallel park after training.
xxenoscionxx@reddit
It took me 40 minutes tonight to move 3 feet to my right lol. So don’t beat yourself up. Every one has there days.
Some_Victory_5499@reddit
You can't be perfect in the beginning.It's gonna take some practice stick with it
Kbug7201@reddit
Don't quit. You decided to do this for a reason. Now if you fail, that's one thing, but don't quit.
Tricky_Big_8774@reddit
If that's all stopping you, then I would finish the class at least. Sometimes, it just takes a while for things to click when it comes to backing up a trailer, and parallel parking is not the easiest thing to do.
Round_Rooms@reddit
When backing up if you are trying to straight out turn the wheel toward the side of the trailer you see more of in the mirror.
LOGHARD@reddit
I drive a log truck
Try2Relate2AllSides@reddit
Brother. Stick it out. Be safe. You are so new and being too hard on yourself. If you own that you suck, are accountable, TRY HARD, WORK HARD, and a company is willing to keep you around then the only thing stopping yourself is your confidence.
Be slow, be safe, don’t hurt people, try not to break equipment, own mistakes. Keep learning, you will get better. You know nothing rook, keep grinding and don’t be a quitter
NorthDriver8927@reddit
You mean you weren’t an instant trucker after a full week of training? It’s almost like it takes effort and practice to get good at something…
CONQUER66@reddit
Im in school myself and will start training on driving next week in a manual. Don't give up and dont be discouraged. As my instructors told me, we go nice and slow. It's all about learning. Some people take more time to learn than others, and that's ok.
Juniverse1@reddit
When I was in training, I used a model truck/ trailer to practice maneuvers that I couldn't picture in my brain when I was inside the truck. I would do it over and over until I got some idea of what the trailer would do in relation to the truck. It helped me begin to make sense of everything when none of it made any sense at all.
Madmagician1303@reddit
When I trained I kept one those nice metal model trucks and had the student pull it around corners and back it up. Really helped them see the whole picture.
Fuzzy1598@reddit
Dude going on nine years. Ask me to parallel park and it's gonna take a few. The only saving grace is doing it for so long I know what the trailers gonna do. No shame in it. You're in school. It took me 6 months out on the truck by my self to actually comprehend how to 45 back. One day it just clicked. But it's hard trying to maneuver these behemoths into small areas. I wouldn't give up just yet. At least you know the area you need more training in. Also ask the instructor for what you might be doing wrong.
Environmental-Pear40@reddit
Typically, problems backing, at least at first, are because you have to learn how to keep an accurate 3D model of what's going on around you in your head. For some people it's easy for others not so much, but everyone can learn to do it.
When I started I knew quite a few people that just could not back to save their life then it just clicks one day and they're fine. I cheated cuz my dads a driver so just getting a class e was a bit different for me. It was the pre-trip part that I struggled on, to many words.
Natural_Tomorrow4784@reddit
Took you 3 hours to park in the lines? Shit good for you took me about 2 weeks lol
Xhova757@reddit
No, don’t quit! Watch backing videos on YouTube. Go to truck stops and watch trucks back in. Ask for help. Eventually it will click for you.
SAPPHIRE_REDD@reddit
Stop overthinking. You’ve got this!!! You gotta boss up your mentality to change your life. 🙌🏽
Sure-Run-4881@reddit
Hang in there buddy. It's just like when you learned to parallel park a minivan except harder. You'll be doing it effortlessly in months
Professional_Trade45@reddit
Don't give up yet. You just got started and you'll still be on the hook for tuition. Quit being so hard on yourself and give yourself a chance to learn. When you get on the road then you'll really decide if trucking is for you.
iIdentifyasToaster@reddit
Skilled work takes skills. Keep practicing, nobody gets it right away.
Severe-Island-845@reddit
Let me guess- you are a weed smoker?
DauntlessEmperor@reddit
Practice makes perfect. No one gets it the 1st try. I had to practice twice a lot before I was able to get it. Just know that out on the road, you don't parallel park that often at the truck stops or at docks. Its not as common as the 45 or the alley dock.
K1d-ego@reddit
lol don’t worry, you’ll just park on the ramp like everyone else
RealSharpNinja@reddit
I think the biggest misconception about driving modern trucks is that somehow driving any automatic truck is easy. The biggest eye opener for me has been just how drastically different it is to drive an automated manual and a normal automatic. I'm currently in a 2024 International wit the Endurance automatic. It drives like a passenger vehicle doing manuevers. Prior to this truck, the other modern trucks I had driven had automated manuals or Eaton 10-speed mamuals. The trucks with a clutch pedal were always easy for me to drive smoothly doing manuevers, but the AMT trucks made me look like a complete idiot, especially if there is amy slope at all to the lot. With the clutch pedal you can manuever without touching the accelerator all day. The AMT is the opposite, leading to having to brake-torque the shit out of the truck, which leads to both overheating the clutch and using up your air. So when I read that you needed 90 minutes to parallel park, I immediately wondered if your school uses AMT equiped trucks.
xDrGertx@reddit
Man, I feel this. I work for FedEx Express and have to hit multiple docks each day. I learned on a manual, but drove an automatic my first week after getting my license. Those AMTs are soo jerky when backing. Luckily our fleet still has manuals so I requested one and haven't been back in an automatic since.
xDrGertx@reddit
Just stick it out, dude. It'll eventually click.
firemarshalbill316@reddit
Everyone thinks that when they first get be the wheel. Its a natural thing to be afraid of something like that. It's scary, intimidating, think you going to kill yourself or someone else, and so on and so forth.
Fear is the mind killer. You let that little thing beat you prepare for other lesser things to beat you as well. Best way to deal with fear is twp chops to the throat. Two chops.
SolaSnarkura@reddit
I had the same problems with backing in general after my first week. I went in and spoke to the CDL school’s head guy and said I suck at this part and probably had to quit. He talked me into not quitting literally, and said hang in there. There will be a point in time where it will all just click and make sense. I listened to him and didn’t quit. I failed my first test because I panicked on all things, the parallel park. It was only because I forgot a step they told me during the test and when I finished the maneuver, my rear bumper was touching a cone. I was really upset with myself, and the same guy who told me not to quit calmed me down and got me scheduled to take the test again because they knew I could do it. Second time I passed with flying colors.
Hang in there. You got this…you just need to be patient with yourself. It will click for you too.
TizMeJeanie@reddit
Continue with your class, it’s good experience if nothing else!
Automatic_Spirit_225@reddit
My wife made this choice for herself. For me, there was no choice. I was impoverished and tired of people. A decade later, I pulled my family up. This just is my life. Good luck.
way_2_5pecific@reddit
I wold seek other options. The trucking industry is just a big scam. ALL the companies suck. The DOT suck. Shippers and receivers suck. The public suck.
If you want still be treated like a human and retain whatever dignity you do have, I would recommend something far more rewarding.
Cute-Region-3449@reddit
You have good days and bad! Take your time, get out and look (even if it’s a foot or less at a time) if you didn’t hit anything, it was a successful back/maneuver!
curryshotzz@reddit
bro i been driving for 2 in a half years and i still feel like i suck at backing lol
fleetingreturns1111@reddit
Been having those same thoughts but it's more the fact I can't seem to find a job at all. I was gonna work for one place but I had a panic attack on the first day and bailed like a moron. At least it has convinced me to finally start taking meds for said panic attacks
LloydAsher0@reddit
I'm 4 years into this. I'm still dogshit at offset backing and parallel parking. You get better at it.
MB-MAIN@reddit
I've been an accountant for 15 years and still have no idea what I'm doing. I think the feelings you're having are normal. You're supposed to feel like you're over your skis when you start a new job. It's growth.
NFLTG_71@reddit
Dude, I kept failing my test several times cause I just get real nervous I eventually pass and I’ve been driving for seven years. You’re being too hard on yourself. There’s a reason why training is out there. If everybody could do it everybody would be driving an 18 wheeler even the mom who’s taking her kid to daycare
Living-Worry-3190@reddit
I hit the guardrail on my way out of the tandem lot for my road test the first time. Automatic fail. THEN I COASTED FOR TOO LONG DOWNHILL IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE FIRST LIGHT! that was two fails in a row. Banged it on the third one. Now I'm two years in, making money and have a satisfactory safety record. It comes.
Living-Worry-3190@reddit
Just keep plugging, you'll get it, all of a sudden things will just click and you'll have it well in hand. Don't Never Give Up!
lcracing92@reddit
We all have to start somewhere. To some people, it comes quick. To others, it takes a lot longer to get it down. It can be overwhelming at first, and as my old high school football assistant coach would tell us, “That’s why we practice”.
Maybe take a few minutes of a break to catch your breath in between some attempts, and study up on the area. Remember that it’s your trailer you have to be guiding there.
You got this.
nsandin88@reddit
If nothing else, at least finish your training. It took me two years OTR before I would say I felt comfortable backing in most scenarios. It's like learning a new language, but you have to speak with all your limbs at once; give yourself some time!
Not-A-Pickle1@reddit
When I started taking classes, all I focused on was the pre trip. The maneuvers and everything were rough but sufficient. Once I started driving, I remained green for 2.5 years with class B vehicles. Now, I’m hauling around paving equipment on a flat bed to loading and unloading myself. I bought a home at 25 years old and am making significant progress in life.
Download American trucking simulator if you have a pc. That’s what got me into it.
King0Horse@reddit
So I'm not going to try to convince you that trucking is for you. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't.
But I have a tip that could help you with this specific problem.
You remember playing whack-a-mole at Chuck-e-Cheese or some similar place?
Backing a trailer is exactly that. Put one hand on the top center of the steering wheel. If you look left and right in your mirrors and don't see any trailer, you're backing straight up. If you see trailer in your left mirror, nudge your hand towards that mirror. If you see your trailer in your right mirror, nudge your hand right. That will get your trailer back in line directly behind you.
Move your hand like you're pushing on what you're seeing. Too much trailer to the left side? Move your hand left. Too much trailer in your right mirror? Move your hand to the right.
Farther movements to left or right obviously have more effect on how much you push it in the direction you want it to go.
lestsgoritenoww@reddit
Keep trying
Last_Parable@reddit
Here's the thing: it gets easier tomorrow. Here's the other thing : I hate trucking
Missouran@reddit
It took a year before I was really comfortable parking. Like every skill, practice makes perfect.
Beginning-World-1235@reddit
When I was in CDL school, I couldn’t straight back to save my life. Now I have hit docks in Brooklyn that have no business for a truck to be in
LucHighwalker@reddit
Well of course you hit them if trucks aren't supposed to be in them :P
Zoa1Club@reddit
I am a textbook reason not to give up. I drove my trainer crazy and took me forever to learn to back up and now I’m a Yard Driver and doing great. It takes time. Try not to freak out and overthink.
LucHighwalker@reddit
Parking a truck is hard, it's nothing like parking a car and controlling a trailer is pretty unintuitive when you start. But it gets a lot easier.
I'm in my 4th month, and I still have a hard time sometimes. But it's definitely gotten a hell of a lot easier. Parked in a tight spot where the front was blocked by an oversized load parked outside of a spot. It took a while, but I got it in. A month ago, I would have said, nah, ain't no way I'm getting it in there. It just takes time, don't be discouraged.
Besides, you barely ever have to parallel park. I've done it once (outside of school) in the 4 months I've been doing it. And it didn't even really necessarily have to, it was just more convenient while taking my 30 than to try and find a spot at a crowded truck stop. In short, you'll likely never really need to parallel park. And by the time you do, you'll be much more comfortable knowing how that trailer is going to move.
Routine_File723@reddit
Keep at it. It takes a while to get into things. Ask questions, listen, pay attention and practice.
Took me 5 days and hundreds of attempts to learn how to ally dock. Just gotta stick with it.
cCueBasE@reddit
I’m a CDL instructor and have seen tons of students get overwhelmed and think about quitting after the first 2 days of being in the truck.
I tell them that it’s normal to not understand and I don’t expect them to. Some of the things I say to them may not click until months later after they start working.
The main thing is to ask questions to your instructor. And when you aren’t in the drivers seat, observe what the person who is driving is doing. That way you’ll start to understand how the trailer reacts.
Stick with it.
brokedasherboi@reddit
Man don't give up, I'm only two months in and already dramatically better at backing. During school it was almost impossible and made zero sense, then it just kind of clicked and it's much easier. I'm no professional but improvement happens faster than you'd think. Also if it helps, I'm finding backing into parking spots and docks a lot easier than the stupid DMV parallel park, which you'll almost never do in the real world
A_CA_TruckDriver@reddit
Parking a Semi is one of those things that you’re shit at until it CLICKS. Idk what it is but eventually a switch flips in your head and you suddenly get it and will start doing it well.
Then again…
Some people are shit no matter what and don’t know when to quit.
OptimalTennis8498@reddit
This.
SuperReleasio64@reddit
Not everyone is good off the bat. If you're really serious about trucking you can always practice your backing at an empty lot if they let you.
LuisChoriz@reddit
By the time you HAVE to parallel park (because it’s very rare) in the real world you’ll know how to maneuver the truck to make it happen.
RedlineM5@reddit
It's your 2nd week. Read that to yourself again. No one got this shit immediately and if they claim they did they are full of shit.
HumanVsWorld@reddit
Trust me when I say this I just got my cdl not even a month ago you will get better one of the best thing my instructor told me was in the beginning of this course most of the time it’s going to be 80% luck and 20% skill and with that being said you really have to pay attention to your mistakes and your find your markers what you should be looking for your key points. There was one day I was out there for a an ENTIRE DAY couldn’t do a single parallel I watched everyone leave early i was the only one out there I thought the same shit. But the next I asked my instructor to give the most detailed step by step parallel and it all just clicked together for me
JD4101@reddit
It’ll click mate. Give it week see what improvements you make.
prettykikimora@reddit
It took me 3 weeks to master the alley dock, one of the hardest maneuvers. I was terrified because the test date was coming up soon, i used all my free time to get it down, eventually it clicked, now It's been 2 years and I can parallel park with my eyes closed, blind side, I almost gave up too.
Alternative_Edge_775@reddit
Been at this near to seven years. Did my first successful parallel park day before yesterday. If it had been required on my cdl test, I'd have been cooked.
That 90° alley dock, tho! 😅
Apocalyric@reddit
Sometimes you just need to have a breakthrough. For me, it was shifting, but that seems to be coming together.
KingOfKa@reddit
When I first started driving truck it would take me 10-15 minutes to straight line back. I was always anxious and my brain couldn’t process the correct movement of the trailer. I never gave up and just kept doing it, and after awhile it just became easier and easier. My trainer always told me that one day I would out back him, and now I can parallel park confidently if I needed to. Confidence in yourself is key, and don’t overthink too much.
Actual_Economics_928@reddit
same thing for me bro i was the last to graduate class and guess 15 years later im the only one out the class with my cdls stay down until you come don’t be your worst critic block everyone out and handle it bro i see you at the finish line 🏁 💪
Ayrria@reddit
Everything is hard when it’s new! Don’t let that discourage you. When I was in school, I couldn’t shift at ALL. I was the slowest of my class to learn how to shift and use it on the actual roads. My brain couldn’t comprehend it at all! But you gotta keep pushing on!
MarionberryNervous19@reddit
Just get through training and see what u think
RhinoDK@reddit
I’m relatively new myself, it’s not intuitive until it is, just keep going, I did a month of training, got my CDL on the second drivers test, and then I learned how to drive a truck. In that order.
Remigius1st@reddit
When I startes 2013 .I was not able getting the trailer in a spot . You will be fine . Just do not be stressed and always follow G.O.A.L .
Towodi_7@reddit
I'm struggling bad too so don't beat yourself up.
Bamfurlough@reddit
I failed my CDL test 4 times. I've been OTR for 18 years now. No accidents. Go back tomorrow.
Jolly-Rancher-Cowboy@reddit
45k miles man and I am horrible at backing not going to quit I’ll quit when I die
Monicatt-1971@reddit
Stop it right now! Some people never get it. As a former instructor there are very few..like about 2% are naturals or have grown up backing farm equipment and stuff. Even when you get your CDL every backing situation will be different-no lot, no truck stop, not anytime you park will be the same. You just have to have time to practice, use the skills they are teaching you and have patience! Even perfect drivers use pull ups and get out and looks if they are professionals and avoid collisions. Take it easy and go get your license! Be safe out there driver..
TootinRooster@reddit
It is never about how long it takes to get backed in. Take all the time you need. Being in a hurry is where you make mistakes.
GlomBastic@reddit
Don't give up now bro. Just figure it out. You might have skills that make an awesome trucker. Patience is the most important.
Backing needs practice. I'm a pro and still struggle to park it straight between wide lines at the yard
Lower_Ball_6925@reddit
Don’t get discouraged practice makes everything better, just remember the slow motions make the truck easier to control, it’s the fast motions that will get you into trouble quickly. You’ve got this!
Kortobowden@reddit
Keep practicing, it’ll slowly start to kinda make sense enough to be able to figure it out. Just takes plenty of practice. Outside of the tests, you have unlimited goals so you can always take a look at how you’re lined up. You can even use an object as the line if there’s no lines.
I’d say give it some more time and practice. Work on getting the spatial awareness of the vehicle, it takes some time.
TheIzzyRock@reddit
You’re in training, this is literally the hardest part. If you see some of the people out there driving, trust me, it just takes time and practice.
Backing a trailer is tough, many folks can drive the highways for hours, but it’s backing that’s tough. Just keep going.
Don’t give up
RealSharpNinja@reddit
Many, many years ago (1990) when JB Hunt was the only carrier advertising $0.41 per mile on the back of their trucks, I had a friend who was big into CB radio and the running joke was that JB Hunt had to pay their drivers that much so they could afford to have someone back up the truck at their destination.
Critical-Relief2296@reddit
Your on your way to be the best there is, you're already learning how to assert dominance while parking.
bunssnowman@reddit
It's understandable but if my dumb ass can do it so can yours. I mean it, you can make a good living doing this. It's the other stuff you need to worry about. Want stable hours and home time? It's not for you. Want to make 2 to 3 to 4x the minimum wage in your area? It is. You should only do it if you think you will enjoy it when you get better. If your heart calls out for something else more interesting then do that instead. Now is the time to decide. Once you get used to this kind of money there is no going back. I have no clue how anyone lives off less than what I make.
Key-Mycologist-7272@reddit
Bro you're fine. The cdl test is harder than any time you'll actually be out on the road because you have a limited number of get outs and pull ups, irl you can get out twenty times and pull up twice that and as long as you don't hit anything you're literally fine. I've been out on the road for a year and backing didn't really start getting "easy" until about six months in and I'm still learning how to do it better every time I do it.
Any moron can drive a truck down the highway, that's not the hard part of the job and isn't what you get paid for. You're getting paid for backing. Just keep practicing.
Salt_Bus2528@reddit
You'll get it eventually. It comes with more practice than you'll ever get from a driving school. I haven't run a 53' in a while but the skills I got from it landed me a local job. Now I back trailers full of excavators and stuff into rich people's driveways because some people need to spend a million dollars on their front lawn
Dare_Ask_67@reddit
Trucking is like anything else. It's a skill that you have to learn and then keep learning it by repetition. You're not going to do anything correct other than get your CDL out of driving school. You're going to be nervous every time you back in while you're with a trainer, and when you get on your own. I've got 35 years experience and I still get some doors that I'm just shaking my head going this is going to be a b!tch. Don't give up. Just get the right mindset. You can do it. You may not do it the first day, you may not do it the first week, but you will be able to do it eventually
Row30@reddit
Well said
JoeAneas02@reddit
If your a quitter yea trucking ain’t for you
Acrobatic_Ocelot_461@reddit
The day before I took my driving test, I couldn't do anything right, I couldn't back, park, or get anything right. So I went home and got a good night's rest. The next day I took my test. 25 years later, I'm still doing it. Don't stress out, you'll get it.
buttnutela@reddit
How did you do on the lot lizard test?
BidenFedayeen@reddit
One of my driving instructors told me I was bastardizing maneuvers. The lead instructor after I finally passed said people were asking what was wrong with me. It took me several months, but I've gotten a solid enough hang of it after being 6 months solo. Practice helps. I came in during nights to get more practice. I promise it gets easier. I could go on about how much I struggled. If I can do it, you'll be fine. I was backing like goddamn SpongeBob in boating school when I first started.
PowerComfortable9493@reddit
I failed that my first time taking the test and had to come back a week later after more practice. You will likely never use it. Seriously. I've done it once in 8 years. Get the backing down pat though. Lots of tight parking and docks on the horizon.
whodatyeglic@reddit
Naw don't quit just because it seems like you're picking it up slow. I had plenty of tough days at first and now im over 5 years in. Just gotta keep practicing
Turbulent_Diamond352@reddit
Bro...I've been driving for 4 years. Days where I still have to stop and think how I'm going to back up my truck. It's your second week dude. You're not going to be a super trucker over night like me or the others in this subreddit. You will get the hang of it. Go home watch tv or play video games or what ever you do for fun. Get a good night sleep and get your ass back in the truck tomorrow. You will get the hang of it
EColfaxlivinn@reddit
Things did not click for me At All when I started in (Estes Express Lines) driving school. I would say it took me over a month before that happened. It will come if you stick with it. It helps I had a patient company and driver trainer, but it will take time. I truly believe anyone can drive a truck.
joepancakez@reddit
Hang in there, you can do it!
Litothelegend@reddit
It gets easier, tough it up and stick it out.
tenfootninja559@reddit
No one starts out good.
casino_night@reddit
Don't give up, bud. It's not an easy skill to learn. I remember driving home from school in tears because I wasn't getting it. Things didn't start to click for me until about a week before my scheduled test.
j33pman@reddit
For perspective: it was easier for me to learn how to land a plane than it was to offset back-there were on cones and only one obstacle! You also get a lot more hours of practical experience before you test. These schools give you the minimum required amount of time. You can do it.
acs0311@reddit
Don’t quit yet. This is what school is for. You’ll get it. Then you’ll be on the road hitting crazy hard backs with one shot and looking like a complete idiot with an easy wide open dock. It happens. Last week I parallel parked a 13 axle setup on one shot. Yesterday I had 4 pull ups to get a 3 axle RGN in the hole.
ConsequenceSweaty241@reddit
Well think about it but you will get down if you decide to do just remember in a semi truck and trailer when backing everything is backwards from backing in your car just think about it the hardest thing about being a truck driver is not driving being away from home so much 👍😎
fartspatula@reddit
We all were terrible starting out, don’t let the super truckers fool you. Even when you graduate and start at your first company, you will not feel comfortable nor should you. It’s part of the process, keep at it, you will get it. It’s the ones who are way too confident and arrogant that are the dangerous ones, they also suck but act like they’ve been at it 20 years. They are the ones that make the biggest mistakes. It’s normal to not feel good, and remember, school is just training you to pass the class and get a CDL. The real learning and growing will be after that.
NoLyfe_Trader@reddit
3 hours and you eventually got it?? I know people been driving for 3 years and still look stressed! Keep practising my guy, it'll come with A LOT more practice!
limbophase@reddit
You’ll make more money faster if you just go through it and learn just like the rest of us did. No one in this sub except for a few farm boys knew anything when we first tried backing up. After a few months you will be totally fine
Imaginary-Badger-119@reddit
Unless the school has a time limit take as long as you need to learn..
highlyelevated_207@reddit
Best phrasing for advice I ever got was “when backing, left cancels left, right cancels right”
Literally still say that to this day when I’m trying to hit a pocket.
Stick with it, it’s worth it. 6 figures this year and I’m still “green”.
NoMasterpiece2063@reddit
Are you really expecting to master a skill in 2 weeks? Slow down and take it as it comes. Rome wasn't built it a day and you're not gonna become the black top cowboy you've always dreamed of being in 2 weeks
Buggydriver_@reddit
I almost gave up myself I’d have to take nervous poos before every delivery, pickup, and anytime I had to park I’d cry the last 30 miles before I got there because of how scared I was because of how hard of a time I was having with backing but one day everything clicked just keep trying watch lots of YOUTUBE on backing because one day someone will say something that will make it all click everyone has a different explanation meaning everyone has a different way of learning what they are teaching you may not me for you watch videos of different explanations to try and help! Don’t give up!
Mediocre_Ice_8846@reddit
Don't beat yourself up. Everyone learns at a different speed. Took me four tries before I passed. Just remember the first rule of being a truck driver, never admit fault.
I don't know what you're talking about. That dent was already on the bumper.
Ricemunchr@reddit
i’m glad this community is always so uplifting. but you gotta listen to everyone if you put your heart to it and just keep showing up and practicing it’ll just be like learning to ride a bike your first time.
nobody is born knowing a set or a skill. i mean unless they’re literally super truckers that were born in a rig hahah!
but i mean at my school we had a guy who was sweating bullets and getting anxious being out on the road. if you get anxiety behind the wheel it probably isn’t for you..
Natural-Tomatillo338@reddit
There are some very intelligent truck drivers out there. There is also a plethora of room temperature IQ individuals that somehow acquired the necessary skills to do this job. Don’t feel bad you aren’t perfect after being on week 2. It takes time. I have had my CDL since may of 2019 and I still am not a great backer. I could not give less f*cks bc the only time you get graded on how many times you pull up is when you test for your CDL. I haven’t hit anything and I’ve managed to stay employed. Don’t give up just yet.
Desperate-Position50@reddit
It’s your attitude that is keeping you from being successful. If you quit this easy on anything, you get what you deserve. Quit being a whiny little bitch and learn how to park. Watch YouTube. Watch others. Do whatever it takes. Just stop tapping out when life gets “too hard”.
SaltyTips@reddit
I failed my first time taking it. I'm on my 4th month out here on my own after 2 months with a trainer. It gets better, sharing a cell that you drive down the road to get to the reciever ontime for 6 weeks suuuucks. But I'm figuring out the backing still don't have it figured out. Dont feel like you need to have it down before you leave school. There's guys out here that are owner ops for 20 years that still screw up the setup and have to go around or do 15 pullups. Its all about learning for every mistake, and making small managable mistakes and learning.
Play around with mytruckingskills and play with different ways of getting a trailer backed in and setup. I had to do ALOT of it even while on the road.
Deebee707@reddit
Took me a long time to get it down. I’m happy I stuck with it. I got a lot better backing up. Don’t focus on the eyes on you just pay attention where the trailer goes when you move the steering wheel!
Slater_8868@reddit
Just stick with it. Who cares that it took you 3 hours? You'll get better and better with practice, just like anything.
Next time it may only take 2 hours. Then 1 hour, then 45 minutes, then 20 minutes. And before you know it, you'll be busting out blind side alley docks like it's nothing.
Seriously.
Delicious_Peace_2526@reddit
It’s hard at first. Before trucking, I always prided myself on having a knack for driving vent and equipment. That all changed the first time I drove a truck. It’s a different beast and it takes time to learn. When I started, I was nervous as hell and I hoped I wouldn’t have to back up. Fast forward a few years, and I hope the shipper has a difficult loading dock so that I can showcase my skills lol.
AndromedanPrince@reddit
man a dude told me i was gonna be the first that couldnt get into his shitty loading bay, i said not today and put that bitch in lol
wouldnt even spot me but i did it.
mynameisjeff91269@reddit
Also it literally took about 7 months before I got good at backing and not nervous everytime it was time to find a spot at the truckstop
TruckerBiscuit@reddit
Buddy it takes (IMHO) 3y minimum to really be able to call yourself a pro. This isn't unskilled labor, amigo. I was terrified of backing as a rookie too. I was sure there was a formula I was missing. Turns out it's way too finessed a thing than can be distilled into a formula.
You learn by doing. Practice at the terminal. Practice in empty truck stops. I understand if it's really not for you but for the love of God don't let something like inability to immediately master a difficult skill turn you away for good.
Just my $0.02-worth.
AndromedanPrince@reddit
backing will have u questioning life when u first do it, dont fold. try to understand how the trailer moves to inputs. it will click enough to pass, then you will be ready to cry at your first dock or truck stop.
mynameisjeff91269@reddit
This always helped me...whatever mirror u see the trailer getting bigger in turn towards that mirror
Kkalemauser@reddit
Felt the same when I started. 20 years in and still have days where I can’t back for shit.
QuietRightSlick@reddit
Buy a toy truck and practice
yeroldpappy@reddit
Give it a good try. You quit now you will quit everything.
sledge07@reddit
I just started a new class Monday! The guys were down on themselves but after three solid days they’re all doing great. Don’t give up!
Washedhockeyguy@reddit
It gets easier and everyone sucks at it at first. Especially backing up and parallel parking. Dont give up and get rid of that “I cant do it” mindset
FinzClortho@reddit
23 years in this job. Sometimes I suck at parking. You'll get better. I once spent 3 days.. yes days... trying to back a 13 axle with a bump steer booster into a testing bay. The pony motor quit, and a hydraulic motor ob the booster broke. It is what it is. You deal with it.
Uknow_nothing@reddit
Well you could give up and drive class B instead. Join a bus driving company. Then you don’t have to back a trailer. It’s just like backing a long car.
freightliner_fever_@reddit
parallel parking was the hardest for me. i even had difficulty with the offset. but the 90/alley dock? came naturally to me. having a back that i understood helped me better understand how the trailer works. also, you really only need to know parallel because you (depending on the state) will maybe have to do it for your test. in 4 years, i have only had to parallel park once. it’s also easier to do when you don’t have to set up the way the school/testers want you too.
don’t stress about it too much. you’ll figure it out. just go slow, and when the trailer starts doing what you want it to do, start making it do the next thing you want it to do.
OkEvening87@reddit
Everyone starts somewhere…
ChaceEdison@reddit
If it was easy to do they wouldn’t require training
The point of training is to teach you how to do hard things
MacAsPoppaShmurf@reddit
I failed my first 4 attempts at getting a CDL. It took me 2 weeks to even come close to offset backing perfectly. The cool thing is, no one remembers my failures but me and Im the best driver at the small company I work for. I’ve backed down entire curving blocks with cars parked on either side, leaving my non CDL co workers in awe 😂Point is, the failures mean nothing when you finally win but if you give up the failures will be all you accomplished. YouTube is your friend.
vexumy@reddit
If the lifestyle isn’t for you, fully understandable. If you’ve only been doing this for 2 weeks and you can’t back up, that’s fully understandable. If you want to quit because you don’t feel good enough, give it 6 months or less and see how far you’ve come. It takes different people different times to get better, but you 100% will as long as you don’t beat yourself up over it. Just don’t hit anyone and nobody cares! You do you and you’ll be amazed at how far you can go
rcbrown527@reddit
If it was easy everyone would do it. U got this. That feeling you get for making a delivery is like no other. You contributed to a town that needed your goods. Like you actually contributed to society and are making a difference in life. Stick with it. It’s a career
Slaughter_them_all@reddit
Bro you should have seen me my first day it was terrible. I literally couldnt back up straight cause i kept over steering. Now 8 months later i dont get nervous at all except in big cities trynna make sure i dont miss my exit lol. Id say give it atleast a week then reconsider.
GroundbreakingSir386@reddit
It's hard in the beginning because everyone is watching you. Just learn to enjoy it.
Feisty-Season-5305@reddit
Bro I failed my backing portion on my state cdl test 3 times I could back into most spots with ease after about a month in a semi. You just gotta do it more
ddp70@reddit
After 26 years hitting the hole on the first shot is never a given. Do your best, take your time and don’t hit anything. You’ll be fine. Training is actually the easy part. Making a living day after day, the grind, that is what’s hard. Tomorrow’s a new day.
TGP42RHR@reddit
Buck up! We all have bad days! Get back on that horse and ride it like you own it! You will be fine and it will all get easier for you.
firstblush73@reddit
Trucking is for anyone who is motivated to do what it takes to make it work. I suck at backing. Its been 18 months. I STILL suck at backing. 🤷♀️ So I take my time. I get out and look. I make parking decisions bases on risk factor. And I am still here. Still hanging in. Waiting for the day it all CLICKS. Until then, I do everything I can to protect my truck, and others from my faults. Dont give up. You will make it happen, one day!
rc5625@reddit
It took me a year to get comfortable backing, so go back tomorrow and keep trying
Gonzotrucker1@reddit
The world needs ditch diggers as well.
Inner_Community@reddit
We got witches for that fam
bassin_matt_112@reddit
It ain’t easy but if you keep putting your mind to it and put in the work you’ll make it.
Wskytwn@reddit
Don’t quit on yourself. You’re all you’ve got.
offsetbackingtoright@reddit
You're just learning its not as easy as you thought, and people should have a lot more respect for truckers that make it look easy but get looked down on because they work for a living. Quitting is a hard habit to break once you start doing it. Stick with it is my advice, it will get easier and you will have something real to be proud of.