Working as a driver can provide an array of career opportunities for those who like to drive. However, choosing a driving career can significantly impact both your professional and private life. Keep reading to see if long haul driving is the right career path for you.
What is Long Haul Driving?
This career path involves drivers transporting products or goods over long distances typically exceeding 250 miles. As these are longer distances, most of the driving is on interstates rather than through small towns. Routes can take you through multiple states or even internationally during a single job. These routes can require drivers to be on the road for several days at a time.
Benefits of Long Haul Driving
Compensation
Most long haul drivers typically earn much more than local or regional drivers. This is because the pay structure reflects the longer distances traveled and the time spent away from home.
Opportunity to Travel
As they drive across the country and back, long haul drivers get the chance to explore places they might not have otherwise. It is always recommended to take a break every few hours to avoid driver fatigue. This is a great opportunity to explore new towns, popular attractions, and meet new people.
Flexible Hours
For long haul drivers working with Classic Transport, they have the flexibility to choose which jobs to take. This allows the drivers to obtain a level of work-life balance that works for them. It also enables drivers to choose their destinations and hours.
Disadvantages of Long Haul Driving
Not Being Home
For those with families, long haul driving as a career can be very difficult. This is due to being on the road for several days to several weeks at a time. Being away from home can work for some people, even those with families, however, others may find it difficult and struggle with loneliness and depression.
Health Concerns
For those new to the world of driving, living on the road comes with unique challenges. This lifestyle and career choice requires a high level of self-discipline and adaptability, especially when it comes to staying healthy. After all, sitting for long periods of time can have an adverse affect on your heart and weight. This is why it is so important to have an exercise routine you can stick to during long trips. Finding healthy food on the road can also be a challenge, however, it just requires planning out your routes and exploring the options available.
Responsibilities of Long Haul Drivers
As a long haul driver, you will be responsible for maintaining your vehicle. This includes regularly servicing the vehicle and doing pre-trip inspections. Hence, long haul drivers must know how there vehicle operates and know the basic maintenance requirements. Maintaining your vehicle also includes keeping it clean, which means washing it regularly. Your washing schedule may change depending on the conditions as driving through winter and dusty conditions creates more dirt on the vehicle.
Starting as a Long Haul Driver
If working as a long haul driver sounds appealing to you, the first step is to check the requirements for the company you wish to work for. At Classic Transport the requirements are simple and vary slightly depending on the type of long haul job. They have positions available for Towaway, Driveaway and Multi-Haul drivers. All drivers working for Classic Transport must meet federal requirements by providing proof of age, driving record, citizenship confirmation and must carry a valid drivers licence. Drivers must be at least 23 years old and had two or fewer accidents in the past 3 years to be considered. Towaway drivers must also provide their own 3/4-ton or 1-ton truck that is less than 10 years old. Finally all drivers at Classic Transport must pass a drug test and complete a two day induction course before heading out on the road.
The Future of Long Haul Driving
As a long haul driver you will get to start experiencing more of the country while helping to provide a necessary service for communities and businesses. Long haul drivers are often dedicated, independent and enjoy adventure. Driving can be a very rewarding career for those who enjoy solitude and being on the road.
Remember, this may not be the right path for every driver, but you’ll never know if you don’t try. If you think long haul driving is the right career for you, apply today at Classic Transport.
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