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When you’re just starting out trucking, learning all eight different truck classifications and their meanings may seem like a daunting task. Knowing what they mean is crucial because it tells you what vehicles require a CDL to drive and how much weight you can carry according to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or GVWR. To aid you in the learning process, here’s a brief guide to the classifications. What Are the Classifications? Light Duty The light-duty vehicle classification is the least restrictive and contains the vehicles with the lowest GVWR. Class 1 vehicles weigh up to 6,000 pounds and include…

Before you can ever step up into the cab and start driving a truck, you must pass a CDL training exam and earn a permit. There’s a lot to learn along the way, but the process can go smoothly with some help. Here’s a look at how to prepare for the exam. A Brief Guide to Preparing for the CDL Permit Test What Is It? Also known as the commercial learner’s permit exam, this test isn’t so different from the permit test you took to get your standard Class C driver’s license. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions…

Before a truck driver accepts a job, it’s crucial for them to know what type of pay they’ll receive and what that says about the job. Some of these payment methods are common in other industries, but others are unique. Learn what type of pay to expect for your jobs below. How Do Trucker Drivers Get Paid? 1. Hourly Just like in most other industries, some trucking jobs pay drivers by the hour. Hourly jobs are most common in intrastate companies that have truck drivers doing routes shorter than 150 miles. Drivers on these routes will likely be expected to…

Between hours on the road and stuck in traffic, inclement weather, and extended periods away from home, being a truck driver is a stressful job. According to one study, loneliness and depression each afflict over 25% of truckers. Because of this, we encourage you to take proactive steps to maintain mental wellness as your start your trucking career. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy on your routes. 3 Tips for Good Mental Health on the Road 1. Keep Yourself Entertained  Long hauls are an ideal time for listening to audiobooks, podcasts, and music, and they have…

While all motorists are taught the same basic safety principles, truck drivers face unique challenges on the road. Semis handle differently than vehicles you’ve operated in the past, requiring you to modify your safety habits. Learning more about common mistakes and how to prevent them will help you progress during CDL training. What Should New Truck Drivers Avoid to Remain Safe on the Road? 1. Lane Drifting Commercial trucks take up more space, especially when handling wide loads. Given the rig’s size and weight, it may become difficult for truck drivers to stay in their designated lane. Drifting is a…