Ready to quit
Posted by alonegonegirl@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 226 comments
Hello. I am writing here today to get things off of my chest. I feel like I want to quit trucking. I am always away from my family. The days are long. The people are rude. My company sucks. I am half way across the country and away from my home all for my paycheck to not show for it. The trailers are too high. My arms hurt. The 4 wheelers are arrogant. Never want to let me over. And on top of that, it’s hot. Bye
SaltyyFries@reddit
As someone whos starting my trucking career literally tomorrow. Y’all scare me about this field on this sub lol
7thDaydream@reddit
to be fair if you go to any subreddit for any job its full of people who hate it and tell you not to do it.
BeautyoftheLazy@reddit
The turnover is very high for a reason. An old statistic from McDonald’s was the average length of employment was 6 months. I feel like trucking has a lower length of employment. Hence why lobbyists are constantly announcing a “trucker shortage.” It’s a great way to see the country. It’s a terrible way to be a family man. Enjoy what you get and move on when you are ready to move on. Like everything in life, it is what it is; your attitude is up to you.
chillary_shank@reddit
Don’t let mfs scare you. I love my job.
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
I started in May and its been fine. If you dont have a longing to be home and a desire to be there youre golden
Sea_Butterscotch8896@reddit
What company did you start with?
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
I hopped on with May and got hired the day I got my CDL. Paid orientation was 7 days, then I spent 6 days with a mentor and was on my own in my own truck. Im making about a grand a week, doing less then 10k miles, i stay out 21-25 days and go "home" for 3 or 4 days. Theres a fucking ton of down time. They reimburse paid parking at pilot. Theyre also very lenient about mistakes. Maybe too lenient.
i-still-hate-retail@reddit
That feeling of dread when you get sent to brooks knowing it'll take 2-5 days to get a load going out...
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
Its a black hole. Whys the shower smell like sulfur. Its the worst
i-still-hate-retail@reddit
Iirc the shower thing is just because the water is iron rich. I refuse to shower at brooks lol, so much easier to just walk across the street to the pilot
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
I gotta stop parking allllll the way in the back lol
Definitelyabotnocap@reddit
Seriously? 6 days with a trainer and off you go? That is fucking insane. No wonder insurance rates are so outlandishly high and freight rates are so low. Should be federally mandated minimum of 75,000 miles with a trainer that has a minimum of 5 years experience.
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
Dog ive been working almost everyday since May 11th and I just barely broke 20,000 miles. Itll take me a full year to hit 75000 at this company. If i spent a full year with a trainer id quit and go to another company that requires a year.
Sea_Butterscotch8896@reddit
Ok got it. I’m going to swift for Cdl training then I have to do a contract with them
MissYouDesertRat@reddit
The megas are pretty much all the same you just pick a logo to rock for a year.
Impossible-Loss-6449@reddit
Trucking can be great and very rewarding! Don’t let the comments scare you. Many go about it the wrong way. You don’t NEED to go over the road. I’ve been driving truck since 2002 and went over the road for 2 months total! There’s plenty of dock to driver programs out there and many local companies will take a driving school completion in place of driving experience. Many drivers it seems don’t want to do any physical work, yet that’s where the money is at and where you can get very good driving experience locally. I worked for Coca-Cola 2 years, Sysco 8, beer for years, and have been in LTL ever since. I see my family every day, have weekends off, and make 100k a year. If being close to home and with family everyday is what you want to do, drive local and make a great living.
IcyGarbage538@reddit
Seeing that you haul a lot of food and beverage does that tend to be where the $ is in this business? There is a Coca Cola plant down the street from me
Impossible-Loss-6449@reddit
Driving, along with some aspect of physical labor involved, is where the money is at and probably more happiness. I no longer do food or beverage since I moved into LTL. For me personally, LTL is the sweet spot. I’m local so I’m home everyday, there’s still some physical labor involved but not that much, and I’m paid well. If someone wants even less physical labor and mostly driving but still home everyday, there’s LTL line haul which also very well.
Defiant-Medicine3014@reddit
yea same here. but all the complaints about being away from family really don’t bother me bc i have no family to see lol. i’m not particularly partial to my hometown either. i’m tired of my small shitty apartment and the area i live in so driving around the country and just sleeping in hotels/my truck is fine by me. i’m excited about it
Actual_Peak_4961@reddit
Brotherrr same you wouldn't believe the family drama I live with on the reg so ready to get in it and away and just stack
mister_mayhem_m@reddit
This describes my life. I feel anxious at home, and by day 4 of my hometime, I want to get back out there.
allplay@reddit
How do you get 4 days off?!!
mister_mayhem_m@reddit
By doing 21 to 24 days of work consecutively.
DukeBradford2@reddit
Same here. I actually hate having time off. its a $60 uber each way from truck stop to home and then I just stare at a wall for 4 days waiting to get back to work
mariamad89@reddit
Some companies will reimburse you for transportation
Ok_Dig5889@reddit
Yeah I bought a kingpin lock and I was gonna start bobtailing to the house. But found out the little truck stop I park at is ok with parking my pickup there. No more Uber either way. But yeah I just get 34- 48 or so. So that ain't enough time to start projects I need to do. So yeah, ready to go back out sorta.
WeirdTruckGuy@reddit
I do projects all of the time while home for the weekends.
Ok_Dig5889@reddit
I need to, but don't seem to be able to find the time. My ex and her family don't want to get out of my life!
WeirdTruckGuy@reddit
Move then?
WastedLife-66@reddit
You’re exactly the kind of guy who should be driving trucks. And that’s a compliment. You have a high motor and are motivated to get out there and earn. I’d hire you in a second if I had my own business haha. I’m glad you love it.
ResponsibilityTop732@reddit
You'll do fine. Embrace it, just remember its a dog eat dog world and you'll become a little more rough and tough. Ive been in the industry 10 years and still love it
icaaryal@reddit
Some of us like the job. A lot. I make good money and I’m home every week. I tell people I feel like I work about 5 hours a week, the other 40, I’m driving.
GoldWoodpecker_97@reddit
In my first week of training. The days are long.
MostlyUseful@reddit
Listen, I’ve been out here 28 years and most of it has been OTR. (Tried the local gig for a few years and got bored). There are dark times, especially since it’s so easy to go down that rabbit hole when you’re alone and driving for so many hours at a time. This isn’t a job per se, it’s a complete lifestyle change. It’s what you make of it. Do not be discouraged by someone else’s strife. You’re not that person, you are your own person and it’s up to you to make the choices and then follow through. No it isn’t easy, especially at first. There have been times I wanted to ring the bell and walk away because sometimes a bad day is really bad. At the end of the day, good and bad, I still like what I do.
Gr00veChild@reddit
So true! Any time I'm having "one of those days" I tell myself to keep it in mind, and at the end of the week/month let's tally up the good vs bad and act accordingly. Usually before the days over I've sorted myself back out and enjoying the ol' road again.
discgolfnut@reddit
Yes, this is 100% true. I've been going for 30 yrs. Started OTR and did it for 20 yrs. Did regional for 3 years and local for the last 2. Missed a lot of time with the kids. Now that they're gone, I'm thinking about OTR again. I wish I did it backward now. 😕
DividenDrip@reddit
Don’t worry most of the time Kids don’t give a rats ass about parents
TomaszTyka@reddit
Very well put, some days maybe good, some days may be shit, but i enjoy it.
CompletelyPaperless@reddit
It's just that trucking has a ton of unforeseeable issues that you will learn about once you're out there. The driving around is the easy part, but the industry rarely talk about the real stressors. Most starter companies lie a lot. The trucker gets blamed for a lot of issues and delays because the company, and shippers don't want to take responsibility for anything. Planners give you crappy loads you cannot make money on. You will work the 70 hours of your clock in 8 days, but you also spend 20-40 minutes a day calling your company and sitting on hold to deal with their crap and mistakes. Its also a grind when you drive 10+ hours and wondering if parking will be packed, or you cut it close to your clock, or you're wide awake at a delayed shipper, and when they release you to drive you get tired. Now you have to drive extremely tired (or preferably call safety and run late), or they release you during rush hour. There are a ton of stressors that make trucking harder than it needs to be, but it's still worth the investment and it's something to be proud of, even tho almost no one gives us credit.
mariamad89@reddit
So true!!!
Existing_Inside5200@reddit
Well said! We don't get enough credit. Wish people could see exactly what we do daily. Maybe they wouldn't drive like assholes!
THP6@reddit
Same I start CDL school next month 🙃
mrbreeze223@reddit
Go to HVAC school instead you'll have a happier life.
Cannedparadise88@reddit
I'd rather sit in air conditioning and listen to podcast than crawl around in fiberglass insulation and fishing wires up into 140 degree attic
DiabloWolf@reddit
At least you won't be fat
Distinct_Emu_8428@reddit
Buddy of mine went the hvac route.. while his job now is pretty easy (compared to what it was) the first 3-6 years was HELL…. Freeze in winter, sweat ass all summer ect
GRF999999999@reddit
I thought about trucking for a long while but this sub knocked some sense in to me. Seems like a career for desperate people, and I'm desperate, but I'm not incapable of processing information.
I mean, if the money was stellar it's worth putting up with a lot of bullshit, but it's not. I can be a miserable gas station clerk and not destroy my body and mind.
Good luck whatever you decide to do.
Forward-Taste8956@reddit
Don’t do it bro 5 years in ya you make money..but it’s other ways to make money..DONT DO IT! !
kprov_@reddit
think about it this way, more people are often inclined to vent about the bad things online than the good things. that’s why you’re only seeing bad on here
SidheDreaming@reddit
I've been driving for 4 years now and I live my life. I have a husband, mother, extended family, and friends I call sisters and brothers. I don't fret when I can't see them but look forward to the times I can. We talk on the phone when there's time and when our schedules line up (which isn't often). I find other ways to get the connections I feel I need when I'm feeling lonely. I have friends who are 40+ years into driving and never wanted anything else. I know people who drove for under a year and went back to a desk job.
Everyone is different. Every piece of anecdotal information should be taken with a grain of salt. OP's life isn't yours 🩷
Definitelyabotnocap@reddit
You'll either love every minute of it or wish you never started. There's no in between. If you can navigate the bullshit and be an actual professional with a level head and know that a truck is never going to make you a millionaire, then you'll be fine. I'll give you some key advice to start out with though, stay the absolute fuck away from the fuel pump if you are not actively pumping diesel into your tanks. Its not a parking spot. You don't take your 30 minute break there, and when you're done pumping, pull up so the driver behind you can fuel. Doesn't matter if you're the only truck there, truck stops go from wasteland to madhouse in literally less than 5 minutes. Please be courtious. If theres an empty pump that you can pull through and park beyond it, then sure, stop to run inside real quick to piss and grab a drink. But for the love of God, do not leave your truck there for a fucking hour to go sit down inside and eat and take a shower. You will come across the wrong driver eventually and come back outside to a non operational truck. Happens all the time. Good luck.
Metaltom1970@reddit
Don’t be scared. You can get satellite imagery of every place you go. I would have loved that information just 20 years ago. Get out and see where you need to be, game plan/visualize and do it.
MotivatedCheese@reddit
Its highly, HIGHLY dependent on company and even home terminal. I started otr schneider tanker, paid like butt but got the experience i needed. Went local after my year contract was up and got into a local ltl position. Work was harder, lots of "fun" backs but my terminal, boss is great. Was getting paid like 70k. Went to nightshift linehaul 2 months ago and now got my pay bumped up to 100k and all i do is drive 4 hours, do one swap and come back.
Theres hope! Just be smart about it!
Cardinal_350@reddit
That's because the guys that are happy doing it don't bitch on here. Lots of people aren't built for this job
mcgibbop@reddit
Think it over.
Pass_Me_That_Phone@reddit
Don’t be scared. The hardest part for me has been my trainer. Thank god I’m done with this belittling ass man in 2 days. He tried to break me, I didn’t let him see me fold but once. I realized he’s the problem not me and I’ve kept my head up since.
850Gat8r@reddit
Same here
IcyOutlandishness859@reddit
If you got time to learn something else go try something else.
Richard_Tickler69@reddit
It's a job. It has its ups and it's downs.
DujoBalzic@reddit
Get your experience and see how it is
can always do something else
Bbqandjams75@reddit
CakewalkNOLA@reddit
If you're scared, you should be. Life on the road sucks. It may not be the most physically demanding job, but anyone who says it isn't mentally taxing is a liar. You're away from everyone you love. The money sucks, especially when you figure out that you basically have to budget for life on the road AND life at home. You deal with assholes coming at you from every angle. But, if you can stick it out, you can get a decent career out of this industry.
AutumnBrooks2021@reddit
Don’t let other people’s experiences or expectations define what your experiences will be. Some people are simply not meant to do this job and live this kind of lifestyle. You have to set goals for yourself and decide what you want out of this career. Some people come out here to just chase money and they end up being miserable because they always want more but aren’t willing to do what it takes to make more. You have to be willing to make sacrifices in life in order to succeed in life and some aren’t willing to do so.
jaireworld@reddit
Just go into it with a positive attitude knowing that things will get better. I felt this same way the first six months trucking. I felt sad that I was so far away from home all by myself feeling pressured and stressed about driving a huge vehicle all by myself with almost zero experience. With time you start to grow a thick skin and you get used to being by yourself as well as becoming so used to driving and maneuvering the truck that it starts to become a second nature. Also remember that with time and experience come better job opportunities which can come with better home time and better pay as well. That’s why they say you gotta pay your dues in trucking before you can actually start reaping its benefits. I’ve only been driving for two years and things already look way better than they did when I first started.
Muted_Lengthiness500@reddit
Better to hear the honest truth than the lies your about to walk into.
Upstairs_Wishbone980@reddit
My son has been otr since he was 22. He finally found a decent paying local job he likes. Now maybe I’ll get a grandkid! 😂 Good luck y’all. Maybe get a twic card or hazmat endorsement. It may broaden the options
MetalheadGod1@reddit
Wow, if you compain this much about everything, youre not going to be succesful in ANY job
Gloomy-Knee5921@reddit
This is a hustle…gotta get the info to get the money…once you get the money save it…once you save it and got the info time to become a trucking capitalist
Logical-Evening-359@reddit
Trucking is one of those things you sacrifice for a greater goal. It’s not a thing where everyone gets in and makes a bunch of money UNLESS you’re intentional about what field you get into (type of trucking) hazmat, food service or flatbed for example. Then the company you work for matters just as much. Figure out what you want out of trucking. What you’re willing to do for it and for how long. Trucking sucks in a lot of areas but if you play your card right it can set you up for a great life later on. I’ve been doing it for a year and a half and tripled my income in that time. The first 5 months I was away through week and home weekends. Moved on and am home every night now don’t work weekends. Don’t plan on doing it forever unless you love it. Get what you need/want in it knock out debt and move on to something you can sustain
BondsIsKing@reddit
Drive a dump truck
SlothyTendecies@reddit
I went local after 12 years and it’s the best decision I could’ve made. I deliver beer Tuesday thru Friday and off Saturday thru Monday. I work about 10-12 hour days depending on the volume of freight, but it’s nice to actually have a life. Paycheck varies due to a flat pay and commission, but I can’t complain.
legollama88@reddit
i’m going local ASAP. i am so fortunate to live in a pretty decently populated area so i can do it
Humble_Length5150@reddit
Before you go...the trailers are too high? Please explain. Then you can go.
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
Some people drop the trailers too high so I have to do extra to hook on 😂
BadamPshh@reddit
That is one of my least fav parts as well. Some places you can get the yard dog to lower it, otherwise just gotta use low gear if it's loaded
And there's a lot of things in this job where you have to "do extra" for no extra benefit
CLETrucker@reddit
go local.
Some-Bag-1028@reddit
Don’t worry these trucks be driving themselves on next 10 years so plenty of home time soon
chillary_shank@reddit
Time for local! I was the same way OTR. First time I was home I had a new gig.
I suggest fuel, the money is good and it’s a cake walk.
Johndoe9403@reddit
Don't get discouraged, I've been trucking almost 31 years, did a lot of over the road. It's really hard to be OTR and have a family, you have a good marriage and nothing to worry about then hang in there, I know it's hard. Don't quit your job, just start looking for a local driving job, most don't pay but keep looking and you'll find something. Hope all goes well for you 💪👍 Shiny side up... rubber side down 👍
InternationalAd5640@reddit
I quit to become an electrician. I couldn't be happier.
IcyGarbage538@reddit
I want to get into OTR trucking. With a sleeper cab and all. It seems like the days are very long and lots of redbull is required. Cat scales seem to suck too.
My main motivation is really the money and to have a suitable place to live out of for some years. I have a younger son who I’m primarily trying to do this for. Tired of doing Uber eats and other delivery gigs that pay horrible.
breakingyouoff@reddit
I want to quit as well but I don't know any other job that's going to pay me 1000+ a week while I'm in college.
rytram99@reddit
After 7mo on this job i decided OTR is not for me. I want to be local and home. I want hobbies and physical things to do.
Driving for 8-10hrs straight get to be a real drag but i think about how i could be broke doing physical labor or IT and i remember why i do this.
I was NEVER interested in being a truck driver until all those golden carrots started popping up everywhere. "Get your CDL and you could make over 100k A YEAR"!
IT IS POSSIBLE! But good luck.
It helps to have clear goals to keep you reminded of why you do this.
bear1131@reddit
Get your endorsements and go haul fuel. Home daily and good pay. If not get into the trash industry. I’m a trash man in East Tennessee making 1300+ a week. Super easy and laid back and can control my schedule.
HaulednMac@reddit
Bhahahaha
FrogMac@reddit
You can try messaging me. I’m a Third Party Recruiter that works with a large number of carriers. Depending on your experience, MVR, PSP, etc etc etc etc I can typically get a driver home weekly spots. If all the stars align, I can sometimes get local, home daily or home multiple days a week seats.
No promises though till I can actually screen you and play the “puzzle piece match.” 🤷🏻♂️
Minimum-Jacket-705@reddit
Bye.
mariamad89@reddit
Feel like our starter company and OTR Trainer can make or break us sometimes. But yes if your home is biggest priority,OTR trucking is not for you. Meant more for people who are single, no kids, barely any responsibilities. But definitely keep your Cdl at hand and up to date. It’s just one of the Licenses where you’re hire-able any and everywhere,even outside the Country
FeelingTemporary6392@reddit
It's important to explore all your options, whether you're looking for a regional job or something local. I'm currently in my fourth week at a regional position, and I have an upcoming interview next week for a local role in Austin. Remember, taking chances is crucial—sometimes, we miss out on great opportunities because we're hesitant to go for them. Wishing you all the best in your job search!
PrinceOfZzyzx@reddit
You forgot no ganja and when you're out at a restaurant, if you even sniff an alcoholic drink from 9 tables away you'll blow a DUI.
Maleek_2Brazyy@reddit
why not switch to a dedicated route then or just something more local…
AndromedanPrince@reddit
sounds like this isnt for you. trailers too high is a new one lol find something else to do in an office or near family or something .
Professional-Cat9500@reddit
I’m really short and climbing up into the trailers takes a lot of effort. In the beginning, I could hardly manage it at all. Even now, on days when I’m too tired to haul my butt up there I use a stepladder. No shame. I wouldn’t say the trailers are too high, though. I’m just too short.
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
Will do. Trust. I’m not offended by the “this isn’t for you “ comments. Because duh, that’s why I’m leaving lol
AndromedanPrince@reddit
if you have an Aldi near you and dont mind customer service they hire cashiers at $18/hr
Professional-Cat9500@reddit
Yeah, trucking has its downsides and it’s definitely not for everyone but I love it. I just moved to home daily and I’m very much grieving the OTR life. I’m made to be a nomad and started my nomad lifestyle while I was still in grade school, wandering miles away from home in the woods every day, eating off the land and just generally being about as feral as you can get. So when I became a truck driver, it felt like returning to my roots in a way. Settling back down into an apartment feels like moving into a trap and I don’t know how long it will last. I’m definitely going to have to find other ways to meet that need or I’ll never be happy.
freeshivacido@reddit
If you've got a year in, start applying to local jobs. Maybe even class B day jobs. They are out there.
Aggravating-Mud-3169@reddit
It’s not about trucking, it’s just about the company you work for
ValuableShoulder5059@reddit
Go local.
TruthSeekerOrigin@reddit
Why don’t you just get a local trucking job?
PlumComfortable1107@reddit
All jobs have their highs and lows. After almost 4 million miles and life on the road my health took me out of the industry. I do wish I would have spent more time with my family but they never wanted for anything and that was my main priority as a father and man of the house. I'm lucky that I could make it until my kids were grown and doing great in life. Momma and I still get by because it's a lot cheaper now. All I can say is never quit on a bad day and have a job that will pay the bills before you do. The stress of not being able to provide is a lot worse than being away. God Bless
OldPotato1991@reddit
Trucking sucks. Got my CDL 26 years ago. The first time I met my driver manager he called me a worthless dirty Mexican and didn't want me in he's division. What little positive spirit I had left...he crushed. But I never gave up. I had 2 little ones at home that needed my support. Somehow I survived for 26 OTR and local. No tickets or accidents. If I had the opportunity to do it all again...would I? He'll no this job sucks ass! Good luck
JackdailyII@reddit
Trucking is not for everyone..
Existing_Inside5200@reddit
I'm 4 months in and it's been my dream for awhile. I'm a woman so it's even harder in so many ways. All I can say is quitting the job is understandable. We all empathize with you about the assholes, long wait times, dispatch being bitches, trailers too high, landing gear handles falling off, our backing is shit that day etc etc etc. We all feel that!
But family will not be there forever and you do miss so much. Whatever your heart tells you, whichever direction is pulling you is the right decision. You've put your time in so maybe it's the right move to end your trucking career. Follow what your heart tells you... Good luck in whatever you do 😊
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
I am a woman as well. So glad to hear from another woman in this industry
Txctydrver@reddit
Just quit. What do you want a trophy, a shoulder to cry on.
jjvsjeff@reddit
To be real, there's more cons than pros in the trucking industry, it's unfortunately a way of life that you have to adjust to. Make sure to look after your health and wellness as much as you can as the field can destroy you pretty quick especially if you are eating back to back garbage.
Major_Failure2@reddit
I'm almost done with my first year and about to move local/regional. OTR for the first year does not pay you well or treat you well. My advice if you get a 1 year contract with a company is to do your best to get dedicated runs and to not accept milage pay less than 55 cents. If you can get a pro-rated contract that you pay less on after every 4 months, that would be a great bonus.
Telo712@reddit
Just a my first child. Owner op been trying to find a local gig for months. I am quite done with it too in spirit
Tap__Tap__@reddit
ppl say local is the same as otr but he seen places where you get 12 hr workdays and two days off a week. that’s really solid in my book compared to the 3 days a month you get OTR
Pam_P00vey@reddit
Look for a local job, it will make a hella of difference!
Mistermeena@reddit
I reckon we've all been there mate. If its not working for you, get out of it. There's other ways to make a living
Don't just jump off with no rope though. Stick it out until you figure out your next move
West_Imagination3237@reddit
It's not for everyone, follow your heart ❤️
SuperiorTrucker@reddit
Everybody recommending local here when it isn’t that much better. He can expect 10-12 or 14 hour days and will only have time to shower and go to bed and do it all over again. This industry as a whole is the problem. Underpaid, overworked, and unappreciated.
PalePersonality6331@reddit
How is that any different from being otr? At least being local, you have weekends off, most of the time, and sleep in your own bed at night instead of at a truckstop. I'd argue the pay is better, too
austindiorr@reddit
I did not have weekend off being local i worked 6 days a week only off on Sunday
Agamemnon323@reddit
Sounds like you picked the wrong place to work. I worked 45-50 hours a week with weekends off.
Live-Door3408@reddit
That’s totally anecdotal
Current_Young7961@reddit
Yep. I was local. Dairy industry. Pregnant too. The quality of life changed. My dog suffered, i would come home at 2am and be up like it’s daylight. Wake up around 10am just to go drive to the yard and do it all over again for 6 days on and 2 days off. Ended up using my pregnancy to my advantage and getting a consistent schedule of thurs-monday.
Live-Door3408@reddit
It is much better, most jobs give you weekends off some even have you 4 on 3 off, ofc that’s better than resetting at a loves and having the highlight of your day getting a subway sandwich while watching Netflix on a 24 inch TV
MostOriginalNameEver@reddit
Difference is with local if I want to go home after four hours because I'm not feeling it I can.
ManyRisk7578@reddit
Yupp I was thinking the same thing. I’ve never done OTR and absolutely hate the work life balance or the unexpected breakdown that makes your day 4-6 hours longer. Even when you are home you’re a walking zombie. To each their own but some of us actually like being with family
CronoXpono@reddit
It’s the industry that needs a HUGE overhaul. All these rules and regulations to basically make sure the driver is always liable but it also ensures we’re not paid enough or taking care of ourselves.
Rising_Awareness@reddit
It takes a speshul kind of person to thrive as a trucker. You really kinda gotta hate yourself to make it work.
firemarshalbill316@reddit
Trucking is a great financial tool if you are single. You can save a lot of money and invest.
Don't spend your 34 sitting at a truck stop mate. Get a hotel and Uber around the area. Enjoy the sights.
WastedLife-66@reddit
You can always go back. Just cause you quit doesn’t mean you have to give back your CDL. What would you do instead of trucking if you had the chance?
Definitelyabotnocap@reddit
This really is a single mans game. You will never get the time back that you're spending out here away from your family. You don't want your kids to just know you as a voice on the phone, they need you there with them. My dad spent my entire childhood on the road and I know it's his biggest regret. Don't do that to yourself.
As for traffic, put your turn signal on and start merging over. You're in a 70ft long truck that can weigh 80k lbs, that flashing light is a warning for cars to get the fuck out of the way, not you asking them for permission to move over. These are our highways, we live here.
Lavasioux@reddit
I hear ya brother. Whatever unfolds, i hear you.
duhrun@reddit
The job sucks in every way, don’t blame you.
Metaltom1970@reddit
I’m going to start with, why did you choose this? I love driving so when I had to pack up a flatbed pickup to deliver supplies to the Titans stadium, I found my purpose. If you’re unhappy, move on.
Think_Bear_3791@reddit
All valid reasons my dude, keep that license handy just in case
Stream_Is_Dead@reddit
Almost every day your first year you’re gonna wanna quit but when you get over the hurdle and accept the lifestyle changes it’ll almost become addicting
Current_Young7961@reddit
Trucker to single mom working remote as insurance adjuster to leaving the corporate plantation and owning a remote cleaning business. https://digimillmkr.gumroad.com/l/remotebusiness
Start the remote business while you’re still trucking & once you see yourself profiting $20k in a month then make a decision to permanently get out the truck.
SillySpecimen666@reddit
I quit in 2 years and I’ve been driving for 5 years so far. I’m going to be an anesthesiologist tech. Fuck this. It’s for a certain type of person who is ok with the lifestyle. It’s not for me.
FloridaRon@reddit
You could do what I once did!
I'm old now but in the 70'-80s that's how I trucked... The quitting part.
After my initial 6mos with a terrible fair sized company for the era. I was off for a year or so before returning for my longest stint of nearly a year. I never had any other skills, I driven something all my life from taxi to soda truck but little else so after a year or two I'd be falling behind at home and the road would start looking good again.
Things were different then so I don't know what you can get away with these days but when I went back each time I was "Super Trucker", Never late with a load (gets you hired fast) Never went back with the same company as learning the routine is one thing, but living it another.
These days it seems all trucks are leased on to someone but back then I grew a fondness for Mom & Pop operations. Nice to know who you are making money for. There still may be a few with contacts that give them outbound loads... I'd seek them out as they get you home every week because that is where their good paying loads are.
Some of the things you hate the road for may become what you miss most and the road may lure you back into the fast lane going a different way for a whole new adventure.
4BucksAndHalfACharge@reddit
As a 4 wheeler myself I always let big trucks in. Sorry to hear this isn't common. My rule is, right of way belongs to pedestrians and vehicles bigger than me. Part out of respect, part out of self preservation.
Hope you work out whatever you decide.
MuffinMonster-@reddit
Stop jerking off so much and yours arms won't hurt as much or just use one arm.
Joke aside, when I was in truck driving school 26 years ago. My instructor said, you'll either love it or hate it. I still love it. I'm married and had twin 7 year old girls. Wife makes over 6 figures and says I can work at home Depot if I wanted to. But I can't imagine working indoors, inside some factory or warehouse. Driving is what I love. Good luck driver.
EscapeWestern9057@reddit
You could try regional or local. I run a dump truck and am home every day.
LieslHale@reddit
No crying in trucking! Suck it up
Suge_White_619@reddit
Been a 3rd generation OTR O/O for YEARS, AND LOVE IT.
It definitely helps to have had multiple bids in multiple jails, to be able to cope with "loneliness" and a 90" sleeper.
I do platform, I get the exercise I need and eat (fairly) healthy, so I have endless energy.
Kids are grown, I come home to the wife (when she's not with me) pretty often.
I can haul for 5 or 6 weeks, and spend a month at home without falling behind.
This industry isn't for everyone, especially dock bumpers that have zero work ethic, and nothing but complaints.
Hang up your keys driver, and go back to Walmart stocker, where you'll actually have a reason to complain.
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
Here is your cookie. Don’t eat it too fast 🍪
nastyzoot@reddit
Some people do it and can't get past the bullshit. Some people do it and forever have diesel in their veins. No judgement. It is what it is; and you know immediately which side you are on.
stealthyhomicide@reddit
Get your experience in and go local. May take a little while, but you can make bank with local work.
Whitehoneybun666@reddit
I’m with u except i actually did quit im currently stranded in Georgia gotta make it back to cali im over trucking when I get back to cali im going to welding or linemen school
IcyOutlandishness859@reddit
If you can afford to try a new field then go ahead and try one now. That CDL will always be there.
CommercialOccasion72@reddit
There’s less stressful jobs with less liability, less hours, and better pay.
There’s also better companies and ways to navigate the stress more effectively. It’s a living. There’s plenty of ways to make a living. Up to you. Good pay in trucking generally takes time and sacrifice to achieve.
Cutie-Internet7192@reddit
Honestly, I worked with the company for 3 months and I loved it in the beginning. Then, my home time got messed up, and then they sent me more North and told me to keep running. I'll get my hometime next week. However, the nights got long, I started thinking about my family, and then my husband wrecked his car while coming home from work. So, at my hometime, I got to see all the damage that was done and he could have lost his life. I couldn't do it, so I quit, started working from home, and drove him to and from work.
However, no one knows whether they can handle the trucking life until they get out there. It does get depressing, but you just have to look at the view and take it one day at a time. People who drive cars dgaf about Truckers and there are Truckers that dgaf about other Truckers.
Also, this may sound stupid, but my grandpa always told me to carry flowers with me if I ever decided to go trucking. He had roses and a green thumb, so he would always smell them when in a bad mood because he wasn't outside very long and loved them. I bought my roses from the dollar tree and put some calming essential oil on them. They always helped.
avm95@reddit
Get a local gig
West_Masterpiece9423@reddit
You won’t make as much $$, but I’ve been local 4 10s my whole driving life and like it. It’s great to be home every day.
ReallyRottenBassist@reddit
I have 30 plus years driving, I've been through 5 companys. Early you have to pay your dues, maybe it's low pay or time away from family.
My first company was great, if I ran the city one day the next day I was in pa. second company was ltl think yellow Preston roadway abf, I ran a certain county.
For the majority of my career I've been driving for JB Hunt, I'm talking 20 years. They treated me well, both accounts were local running daycabs, I'm home daily.
You probably just need to find someone you click with.
I'm in the north east, I would say the toughest market for trucking because of NY, but it's doable.
Live-Door3408@reddit
Just get a local job lol
SpecialistPrint4142@reddit
Try getting a local job first. It might not be trucking in general, just OTR. Drivers who sleep on a truck across the country should be clearing $175k a year with EASE, but the industry just doesn’t allow for that. Plus, these companies are too greedy to pay truckers what they’re ACTUALLY worth. Get a local job making $80k-$90k a year, and you’ll be much happier, trust me.
Disastrous_Ebb9320@reddit
Your arms hurt, poor baby 🥀
JusticeSaga0001010@reddit
What helps me keep my sanity is not so much the act of talking to people but continuing to take the effort to talk to people. What's wild is about 75% of the time if I say nice truck/nice dog/nice whatever to break the ice, the person will look at you like an alien or worse say sorry I don't speak English 🤣 while it's funny to me I always make sure to pray that I never become like that. About 25% of the time I'll meet some incredibly friendly people and we'll chit chat and be on our way 🤷🏾
OneMulatto@reddit
Wrong company. Simple as that.
Fit_Hospital2423@reddit
Ya don’t think there’s a possibility that they aren cut out for it? That’s it’s not a career that’s a good fit for them?
OneMulatto@reddit
Right company is where everything is seemingly perfect enough. You know their bullshit so you already know what to look for.
Some days will be tough even with a good company. I wouldn't call it "not cut out for it". I'd say they lack the work ethic.
A lot of drivers are little cry babies. I've done 13ish year's in foodservice. People complain if they have to move a few boxes from a pallet when you're just dropping and hooking.
You see drivers complaining about people taking too long in the fuel island as if they are always in and out in 5. Or they promptly move their truck forward out of the fuel island.
Just do the work. Learn how to speak up when the time comes.
Fit_Hospital2423@reddit
You’re a genius
whiskey-1@reddit
Here to second this. A lot of stuff that we come across can be difficult to deal with; the rude people, the crazy four wheelers, inconsistent sleep schedule, being away from home, etc. It sucks.
I’m lucky enough to work for a company that treats me very well, lets me run how I like to, and pays me decently enough and boy does that make a difference.
trucksarekewl@reddit
Company matters, but otr is the main issue
FlashyNeat7448@reddit
Same but won’t quit because we keep on trucking
MostOriginalNameEver@reddit
Regional or local. Get away from that otr shit. Go be with your family more
mvamv@reddit
How long does your company have you out for? How much do they pay, by mile, load, hourly if that applies, and what have you been averaging weekly? Do they keep you busy or do you spend a lot of time sitting, waiting for dispatch to assign you a load?
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
2 weeks now since I moved to regional. I get paid .53 by the mile. $800 a week. I spend time sitting and waiting. I’m literally at a terminal for 3 days
mvamv@reddit
53cpm is not too bad of a pay so long as it's for all miles driven, not just loaded miles. The problem is that you have too much downtime.
3 days at a terminal? I would've had at least 2000 miles covered in that time frame.
You need consistent work. If your company doesn't have it, time to find a new one.
austindiorr@reddit
You must not get a lot of miles, i got .48 cpm at Schneider and $10 a trailer doing regional intermodal and i was taking home $1200 every week. 400-500 miles a day
PalePersonality6331@reddit
Start applying to other jobs. If you're just driving a dry van, then start looking into flatbed or something more specialized. It's more work but usually better pay too. I hardly ever sat when pulling flatbed. $0.53 per mile isn't enough, especially if you're sitting. If you're regional and they have you sitting at a terminal, another red flag. Find a better company.
rockymtntrucker@reddit
Okay, bye.
ToeSimilar5163@reddit
Post history indicates you’re no better off, you just take it better
rockymtntrucker@reddit
What? I own my own trucking company, all my drivers are home every week, and paid for their on the road resets if they have to. They are paid a daily allowance on top of their salary so they don't have to pay out of pocket for food.
I don't have a single driver who earns less than $125,000 CAD. I'm extremely proud of that. I'm not above anyone and I recognize the shit people have to go through, I drove in the BC Mountains for 10 years. That's 10 winters of bullshit and black ice and 10 summers of tourists being extremely stupid.
My company has a spotless CVIP record and show quality equipment.
Not a fucking clue what you are talking about, but what OP described is literally just the basic shit any trucker deals with on a daily basis. I will bet my house my driver's go through more in a day than an American van driver goes through in a year in terms of absolute BS they have to put up with.
ToeSimilar5163@reddit
Holy shit 125,000 CAD too, how could I miss that. 90k is fucking LAUGHABLE. Hope your blood pressure remains intact 🤦🏻🤦🏻
rockymtntrucker@reddit
That's for on highway work and someone who is completely new, learn to read.
trucksarekewl@reddit
Home every week for how long? Lol doesn't sound worth it for that pay
rockymtntrucker@reddit
Home Fridays, leave whenever they want whether it's Sunday nights or Monday mornings.
They have their schedule for the week, they can choose when they want to start their week as long as their deliveries get done, I don't have a problem.
trucksarekewl@reddit
Yeah definitely not for everyone
rockymtntrucker@reddit
Hauling into the mines is absolutely not for everyone. It can be scary having to spend the night in total darkness -40 waiting for a dozer to come haul you up the road. Those guys make closer to 200.
125 is the bare minimum, like someone who is brand new to Super B's and brand new to end dumps in general. I would never send those guys into mines, they would do the highway stuff, like hauling out of landfills and doing farm work.
If I'm going to send you into the mines, without knowing you, you would need to have at least 5 years of off road experience, preferable hauling logs or hauling decks/pneumatics into mines. That's the only relevant experience that would even make me consider sending you into a mine right away.
ToeSimilar5163@reddit
Lol all that & all I had to do was spit out a vague sentence after seeing you don’t get much action. You’re preaching to the choir bub, I’ve ran A trains in the rockies through northern UT and up towards the Dakotas.
No doubt van guys aren’t as capable drivers but what does this higher than thou attitude on other drivers get you? Congratulations you’re insufferable.
Not to mention that 120 you’re talking about ain’t exactly impressive. None of the guys I met in the oil patch back west are gonna pull super sets in 2 feet of snow for less than 150k.
trucksarekewl@reddit
Yeah I'm good where i am lol
Left-Lengthiness-401@reddit
You want to drop the name of your company or just keep bragging about how successful you are in a Reddit chat
rockymtntrucker@reddit
Yeah so you can have one more thing to complain about? No thanks.
Never bragged about shit except for my company being well off, I've never once bragged about any personal accomplishments. Just what my business has done, and I know for a fact I couldn't have built that business on my own lol.
Codexe-@reddit
Who is that good for? You. So keep that shit to yourself and stop trying to brag. It has nothing to do with anybody other than you.
azziptac@reddit
Sooo quit? No one wants to hear your sob story. Go find something better.
Jaguer39@reddit
Odd approach 😂 give helpful advice if you can.
alonegonegirl@reddit (OP)
And will. U don’t wanna hear it….dont read it?
Slow-Concentrate1208@reddit
Sorry, your request to quit trucking is denied by dispatch. We need you on a load in Louisiana going to Montana. please confirm. 😁
haha, driver [OP] this feeling passes and you will being to miss it if you leave trucking, but it's a challenge. try to find wants to minimize things that make you annoyed.
a few things to try:
find out if your company will let you have a pet in the truck.
ask for a new lane from your company for something new and exciting..
BTW, your arms hurt mean they are getting stronger.. eat protein to help them become muscles.
opinionated_penguin@reddit
I’ve been running 3 straight months of re-caps. 7 days a week. I don’t even know why
kazikv@reddit
It’s always hard in the beginning. It was hard for me when I started 10 years ago. I was away from my daughter a lot, I even quit my first job over it. Eventually things worked out better. Trucking is a blessing and a curse, it’s given me so much, but it’s taken so much out of me too. If you truly feel it’s not for you, it’s best to get out now before you’re really in the industry, once you’re in it’s hard to just quit and leave. It’s hard to explain, but I’m sure experienced guys know the feeling. But if you stick it out and make the right moves, it can be very rewarding. Just be ready to sacrifice.
SiderBright@reddit
I'm running local and the only thing I get time to do at home is sleep before I go right back to work the next day. "Weekends" off is nice but I'm playing catch up for everything I could have been doing throughout the week.
BrodieGod@reddit
Go Local for a bit if you can okay the money. If that doesn’t work for sure find another gig.
BlockUnique9376@reddit
How many years experience you got? What’s your driver record look like? If you want I can get you in with a home weekly gig
lunellimike@reddit
what did u think otr was lmao... i do p&d in the city love it..home by 3-4pm every day
PalePersonality6331@reddit
Are you dropping pallets or breaking them down to deliver? I was doing food service, and it was awful. I was looking at p&d... hoping it's not like food service
lunellimike@reddit
dropping off .. i work for fedex freight
HopeItMakesYaThink@reddit
See if changing your trucking type will help. Go local. Try dispatch if your company has the option. If you’re in America, dedicated runs might be better for you. Drive at night to lessen the amount of four wheelers on the road. Try micro learning, short audio feeds that can help increase your knowledge in bite size chunks. Learn a language while you drive. Definitely try therapy over the phone. Practice positivity for the sake of your health.
If none of that works the second time through that you try it - meaning try all of this twice in succession - then look for other ways of collecting a paycheck. This isn’t a job for everyone. You don’t drive 40 tons of metal and freight because you like to drive - you do it because you’re driven. If you can’t stand the next mile, don’t drive it. You’re a threat to yourself and everyone on the road at that point.
Better to either fix your perspective on driving or stop altogether. Would much prefer that to you being the next cause of a multi-car pileup.
IRONMAN1959@reddit
Work local and go home more often.
buddhathebard@reddit
Just like everyone else said find a regional gig.
ImissURmomma@reddit
Local sucks too! I have a dispatcher/supervisor that barks orders and micromanages half the driver’s and the other half she left’s them screw off, our safety guy is a bipolar blowhard that would rather blame the guy that writes stuff up rather than the person actually damaging equipment, the people were deliver to half of them are complete asshats, if you want a raise for doing a good job and being a dedicated employee showing nothing but professionalism and strong work ethic you have to put air in your seat to get the raise, they pay a bunch of dumbass foreigners that could give two rats asses about this country and refuse to speak English the same pay you get as an experienced driver that’s been driving for almost 25 years, DOT is out here to bend you over a steer tire but never seem to find the foreigners that can’t speak a lick of English even though they are everywhere, but somehow they managed to find the one silly thing they can put you out of service like your fire extinguisher latch un latched, you’re constantly the target of every 4 wheeler’s road rage issues and deserve to be the punching bag because hey you’re there and because everyone thinks of you as the lowest form of life you deserve it according to some people, you drive a truck that does 65mph and you’re told by people that don’t drive trucks that truck driver’s drive recklessly and way too fast even if you can’t do the speed limit…. For a few examples, but I’m sure you could think of many more.
Jaguer39@reddit
Go local depending on where you live. I went local after 1 year otr. Hated being away from my kid and gf at the time. Ill never look back. I make more local than I ever could otr. I only stayed out 1 week. Refused to stay out longer. I haul fuel now.
PalePersonality6331@reddit
How was it getting into the fuel game? I've just recently added hazmat and am waiting for my twic card. Was thinking either fuel or crude.
Jaguer39@reddit
It wasn't hard for me but fuel isnt for everyone. Especially station work. A lot can go wrong really fucking fast if you dont pay attention. I made 140k the last 2 years. This year im on pace for 135 to 140k. But that's if you want the hours. I work about 55 to 60 a week. I love fuel but I live in wny so the winters here are harsh. Sometimes.
PalePersonality6331@reddit
Right on! I'm in swpa and have been running flatbed on the pipelines for several years. That's why I'm thinking about crude. There's a place in Ohio that'll train for crude. My thought was to go there for a bit, then move down to west Texas to hopefully never see snow again
Jaguer39@reddit
That's sounds like a dream 😂 no snow. No cold.
pingus3233@reddit
I'll say two things:
There are weeks where I'm 100% ready to quit when I get back to the yard. Each time, when I do get back, I think "eh, I'm too tired. I'll quit tomorrow." Then tomorrow rolls around and I think "I'll quit on Monday after the weekend", then Monday rolls around and I'm like "Fine. Whatever. I'll do one more week, AND NO MORE". Usually once I get rolling again I'm good and back into the swing of things for another few months until the cycle repeats.
Nothing wrong with hanging up the keys. No sense in wasting your life doing something that makes you miserable. If you're truly ready to quit then get your ducks in a row: have your truck ready to be cleaned out, your stuff packed up and ready to move, your load finished and the truck back on company property. It's fine to quit but you don't want a load abandonment or truck abandonment with the company.
One-War4920@reddit
There's good companies and bad companies, there's good trucking jobs and bad.
Choose wisely.
santanzchild@reddit
cool story!
Don't let the door hit you on the way out.
Mikeamaru@reddit
I've been out and about for going on 5 years. In my experience the first few years and companies will teach you the important things.
I was long regional for 2 years made about 48k/ year very laid back but no room to increase income.
I went "local" for 2 years doing 550 miles a day doing a line haul route and the tight times and terrible local traffic at my turn around made me so stressed and angry the 98k wasn't worth it.
Now I drive maybe 25-60 miles a day with guaranteed pay, im maybe in the office 30hrs paid for 40 maybe do 8 hours of driving a week.
Keep an eye out for new opportunities use your time to figure what you really want and need. There is a trucking job for you out there, and the person doing it now is probably hating it right now.
Acceptable_Touch7358@reddit
Who do you work for? Let everyone know
hackingmule@reddit
Yep, OTR fucking sucks. Now that you know that it’s time to go regional local.
Abucfan21@reddit
I was approached by my company to go from OTR to regional local four years ago.
It freaking rocks. OTR Money, but home four nights a week. I'm sending this reply from a lounge by my pool, drinking a refreshing beverage.
It gets better, OP. Hang in there!
Electrical_Body8299@reddit
Hell yea brother
Electrical_Body8299@reddit
I drive a flatbed, local NYC im home by 4:30 every night weekends off and gross over $2k a week, tractor clears 12' heights, daycab. trailer is a 45' 2-3 stops a day, union job with all the benefits, 2024 and newer tractors and trailers. I'd never go OTR, I love sleeping in my own bed and seeing my son
CapitanPino@reddit
After 1 month I couldnt do OTR. I got lucky with a dedicated route but it was teams. Then I did dedicated customer TX and Louisiana but it was with Werner. That went bad quick.
Then regional with Crete. Ive been home weekly for most of my career. Even more than that when I was dedicated. But money plays a huge factor. If Werner didnt mismanage that acct id probably still be there.
I am choosing to stay out to save up for a house. My wife doesnt work. But I managed to grab another regional acct that only has me going between Georgia and TX. It gets better OP.
Hoping to be local soon. 🫠 most places in HTX region wants two years regardless of what the app says.
enderdust@reddit
If you want to be home daily and still drive I suggest an LTL trucking company. FedEx Frieght and Old Dominion are probably the best options. It’s more active than just driving all day. The pay won’t be as much but sometimes family time is more important.
CVU03@reddit
Welcome to the good life 😆, I know how you feel, I hope you find what you looking for
Smiling_Facade@reddit
Recently went regional, and flatbed instead of Reefer. Complete change of pace and enjoy it MUCH more. Home every weekend, more active, and feel better about hauling flatbed where I actually know what I'm hauling, and I've secured it, so I trust it much more.
TonyTrucking@reddit
I loved OTR honestly. But I couldn’t do that to my wife for long cause honestly I wouldn’t blame her for leaving me if I chose that route. Happy to be local and have a life outside of trucking too and make decent money considering
ijustwanttoretire247@reddit
If you done more than a year of OTR bro, start researching for trucking jobs locally with the companies.
CashWideCock@reddit
Figure a specialized type of trucking you like and switch to that.
Deebee707@reddit
Got lucky with my job delivering locally empty glass to different wineries all through Napa valley ca & beyond. Started off as a forklift driver in 2020 got my CDL & they promoted me. Need 2 years experience here but they took a chance on me.
JumpResponsible8080@reddit
Go local regional to class B work city bus concrete food delivery to department stores
Deebee707@reddit
Got lucky with my job delivering glass locally throughout Napa valley ca. Started as a forklift driver for 4 years got my CDL & they promoted me to driver. Usually you need 2 years experience but since I was already working there they rewarded me.
Deebee707@reddit
Got lucky with my job delivering glass locally throughout Napa valley ca & beyond for different wineries. Started as a forklift driver for 4 years got my CDL & they promoted me to driver. Usually you need 2 years experience but since I was already working there they rewarded me.
Redsoxdragon@reddit
Nothing wrong with knowing your limit. It's great work that comes with great sacrifice and it's not for everyone.
Hope you find something better for yourself brother
Mad_Ronin_Grrrr@reddit
There are local CDL jobs everywhere but if you hate the actual driving part then you should do what's best for you, your family and your mental health.
KalTheo@reddit
I'm brand new to trucking, but it sounds like a job search might fix several of your listed issues. There are all sorts of different types of jobs, some quite local or home daily which also pay well. Even new to the industry, I'm sure we've all had these thoughts from time to time, so I hope everything works out for the best.
Late-Nectarine5435@reddit
Go to regional companies. Sysco, prime or Schneider ask all of the regional companies. This way you can be home every night.