Many people take OTR truck driving jobs today because they have the chance to make good money. After all, it is possible to make $50,000 or more a year. However, the life of an over the road trucker is somewhat different than most jobs you will find. In fact, it is much different than city truck driving jobs too. Before you decide to take this position, here are some important things to be aware of.
A Way of Life
When you start driving over the road, your life will suddenly change. Driving a big truck across the country is more than a job. It is a way of life. In fact, you could be out on the road for as many as 300 days every year. This can be a problem if you have a family and wish to spend time with them because you may be gone for three weeks at a time. An OTR job can make it difficult to form relationships with friends or family. If you have a life partner, it is best to discuss this kind of job change to make sure it will not create any problems in the home.
Your Work Days
With some OTR truck driving jobs, you may need to get off to an early start. However, you do have the option of night or day driving with many positions. You should be aware it is not like working a 9 to 5 job in which you go to work and come home at the same time each day. In other words, you are not punching a time clock.
Some jobs may require you to work as many as seventy hours in eight days. You then must be off for at least thirty-four hours before going back to work. Remember also; you can only drive for 11 hours at a stretch. Then you must take a break of at least ten hours. However, this gives you the chance to put in 14 hours every 24 hours if you wish.
Time for Reflection
Many people enjoy driving over the road because it gives them a chance to be alone and think. You can use the time to listen to audio books, improve your mind or just be entertained. Do you like the solitude and peace which comes on the open road? How about a job which offers a great deal of flexibility? Maybe you enjoy traveling and seeing new places? OTR Truck driving jobs may be just what you are looking for.
