Navigating the trucking industry can be a thrilling adventure for aspiring drivers. One of the first distinctions you might come across is the difference between interstate and intrastate trucking. While they sound quite similar, understanding the distinction can be vital for your career and compliance with transportation regulations.

Defining Interstate vs Intrastate Trucking

Interstate trucking refers to hauling cargo or freight across state lines. It doesn’t necessarily mean you drive from one state to another directly; even if cargo comes from and is destined for another state, it counts as interstate.

Intrastate trucking is contained within the borders of a single state. The cargo doesn’t cross state lines from its origin to its destination.

Licensing and Regulations

To drive interstate, operators must possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The necessity of a CDL is determined by factors such as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), the number of passengers carried, and towing capacity. You must be at least 21 years old to engage in interstate trucking with a CDL.

For intrastate trucking, a CDL is still required if you’re operating vehicles that meet or exceed certain GVWR, towing capacities, or if you’re transporting a specific number of passengers. While federal guidelines provide a baseline, each state has the autonomy to adjust these parameters. Therefore, while federal law mandates a minimum age of 21 for interstate trucking, many states allow individuals as young as 18 to obtain a CDL for intrastate trucking.

Interstate and intrastate drivers are both responsible for following a variety of safety regulations.

Operational Scope and Job Opportunities

Given the broader scope of operation, interstate truckers often have access to a larger pool of job opportunities, including long-haul routes. However, this could mean spending extended periods away from home.

Intrastate drivers might have limited job opportunities compared to their interstate counterparts, but they usually spend less time on the road, offering a better work-life balance.

Insurance and Liabilities

Operating across states can lead to higher insurance premiums given the increased risks associated with longer distances, varying road conditions, and different state regulations.

Typically, intrastate drivers experience lower insurance premiums, but they should be well-versed in their state-specific regulations to avoid potential liabilities.

Economic Impact and Market Demand

Interstate commerce plays a significant role in the national economy. The demand for interstate truckers is generally consistent, driven by the need to transport goods across the nation.

The demand for intrastate truckers might fluctuate based on the local economy and seasonal needs. For instance, a state with a significant agricultural output might see a spike in demand for truckers during the harvest season.

Becoming A Truck Driver

Interstate and intrastate trucking each offer unique opportunities and challenges. For aspiring truckers looking to travel far and wide, interstate routes might be more appealing. On the other hand, those who prefer to stay closer to home and are comfortable navigating state-specific regulations might find intrastate trucking more suited to their needs. Intrastate trucking may also allow you to get started sooner, depending on demand in your area.

Regardless of your choice, our trucking school is committed to equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in this dynamic industry.

Reach out to us today to begin your journey in the world of trucking!

When it comes to the world of trucking, ensuring a balanced load is both an art and a science. Proper load balancing isn’t just about maximizing the space inside a semi-truck but also ensuring the safety of the vehicle, the driver, and everyone else on the road. In this post, we’ll delve into the critical importance of load balancing in freight, understanding weight limits, and how to distribute weight correctly across axles.

1. Understanding Weight Limits: Safety and Regulations

Every truck, based on its design and specifications, has a maximum allowable weight it can carry. This weight is commonly known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Exceeding the GVWR is not only dangerous but can also result in hefty fines and penalties.

The government sets regulations for weight limits to ensure the safety of all road users, as overloaded trucks can strain infrastructure like bridges and roads and can be more challenging to control, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

2. Axle Weight: It’s Not Just About Total Load

While keeping the total weight under the GVWR is crucial, how that weight is distributed across the truck’s axles is equally important. Each axle, or set of axles, has its weight limit. This is typically referred to as Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

Improperly distributed loads can lead to:

• Uneven tire wear, leading to increased maintenance costs and reduced tire lifespan.
• Reduced fuel efficiency.
• Reduced braking efficiency, making it harder for the truck to stop in emergencies.
• Increased risk of axle or tire failure, potentially leading to dangerous situations on the road.

3. The Art of Balancing

Balancing a load correctly requires attention to detail and a keen understanding of your cargo.

Here are a few steps to help you achieve optimal load balance:

• Know Your Freight: Different goods have varying weights and sizes. Understanding your cargo is the first step to balancing it correctly. Heavy items like machinery parts need to be placed differently compared to lighter items like textiles.
• Distribute Weight Evenly: Always aim to distribute weight equally on both sides of the truck. This ensures better stability while on the move.
• Position Heavy Items at the Bottom: To prevent your cargo from shifting, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Mind the Axle Weights: While loading, constantly monitor the weight on each axle. The goal is to stay within the limits for each axle and the GVWR for the entire vehicle.

4. Modern Tools to the Rescue

Thankfully, truck drivers aren’t left to guesswork. Modern weighing scales and load balancing tools can provide real-time feedback during the loading process, ensuring that weight limits for each axle and the overall truck are not exceeded. Always take advantage of these tools to make the balancing process more accurate and efficient.

5. Continuous Learning and Training

For truck driving schools like ours, teaching the art of load balancing is paramount. Proper education ensures our graduates are well-equipped to handle the challenges of freight loading. Continuous learning and real-world practice can help every driver become an expert in this essential aspect of trucking.

Start Your Trucking Career

The art of load balancing in freight is a critical skill every truck driver should master. It goes beyond merely filling up a truck but focuses on ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. With the right knowledge, tools, and training, achieving a perfectly balanced load becomes second nature, ensuring a safer and more efficient journey for every freight trip.

If you’re ready to learn the skills you need to become a trucker, contact us today.

Networking is important in every profession, including truck driving. As a graduate of a truck driving school, it is crucial to understand why networking is valuable and how it can help you find exciting opportunities in your career.

Here are some tips for networking as a trucker:

1. Meet People at Industry Events

Attending industry events like trucking conferences, job fairs, and trade shows is a great way to meet professionals from different parts of the trucking industry. These events bring together trucking companies, logistics providers, equipment manufacturers, and others involved in the industry. Networking at these events allows you to meet potential employers, learn about industry trends, and find new job opportunities. Don’t forget to bring your business cards, have meaningful conversations, and follow up with your new connections afterward.

2. Join Online Trucking Communities and Forums

In today’s digital world, online communities and forums are helpful for professionals in every field, including trucking. Joining trusted trucking communities and forums enables you to connect with experienced truck drivers, industry experts, and fellow graduates from your truck driving school. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge. These platforms can also provide job postings and inside information on companies and routes.

3. Use Social Media Platforms

Social media has changed how people connect and communicate, and it can be a powerful tool for networking in the trucking industry. Create a professional profile on platforms like LinkedIn that are designed for professionals. Join trucking groups, follow industry influencers, and participate in relevant discussions. Share informative content, such as articles or videos, to showcase your knowledge and interest in the trucking industry. Remember to keep your social media profiles professional, as potential employers may check them.

4. Attend Trucking Association Meetings

Local and regional trucking associations often organize meetings, seminars, and networking events. Joining these associations gives you access to valuable industry knowledge and opportunities to connect with other professionals in your area. These events often have guest speakers who share insights on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. Active participation in association meetings not only expands your network but also shows your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

5. Build Relationships with Trucking Company Recruiters

Trucking company recruiters are always looking for qualified and motivated drivers. Building relationships with recruiters can give you an advantage when seeking employment. Attend career fairs specifically organized by trucking companies, where recruiters actively seek candidates. Beforehand, research companies you’re interested in and prepare questions and a brief introduction. Follow up with recruiters afterward to express your interest and gratitude for their time.

Start Your Trucking Career

Networking is crucial for career development in the trucking industry. By actively participating in industry events, joining online communities, using social media platforms, attending association meetings, and building relationships with recruiters, you can significantly expand your professional network. The connections you make can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights that can boost your truck driving career. Start building your network today and unlock a world of possibilities in the trucking industry!

Contact us to learn more about our CDL training programs.

Becoming an owner-operator in the trucking industry can be an appealing career choice for many professional truck drivers. It offers the opportunity to have greater control over your business, earnings, and work schedule. However, before embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, it’s essential to consider various factors to determine if becoming an owner-operator is the right path for you.

Check Your Finances

Money matters! Before becoming a truck owner, it’s important to see if you’re financially ready. You’ll have to pay for things like your truck, insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Take a good look at your finances, credit score, and if you have enough money to handle these expenses. It’s a good idea to talk to a financial advisor to make sure you’re prepared and can handle any changes in income during the early stages of your business.

Understand the Trucking Business

Being a truck owner means being in charge of your own business. Take time to learn about the trucking industry, including things like market trends, rates, regulations, and competition. Get familiar with best practices and new technologies. The more you know, the better decisions you can make to stay competitive.

Balance Work and Life

Being a truck owner means more than just driving. You’ll also have to handle administrative tasks, manage schedules, and take care of your business. Consider how this might affect your work-life balance. Think about if you’re ready to take on the responsibilities of being a business owner and if you can commit enough time and effort to make it work.

Maintenance and Repairs

As a truck owner, you’ll be responsible for keeping your truck in good shape. Regular maintenance and unexpected repairs can be expensive and take up your time. Think about your skills in fixing things and if you’re willing to learn. Also, consider how downtime might affect your business and income. Having a backup plan and knowing reliable repair shops can help you deal with these challenges.

Network and Grow Your Business

Networking is important for any business, including being an owner-operator. Building relationships with shippers, brokers, and others in the industry can lead to better opportunities and higher-paying jobs. Think about your networking skills and if you’re willing to put effort into growing your business. Attend industry events, join online communities, and stay connected with other trucking professionals to expand your network and increase your chances of success.

Interested In Becoming An Owner-Operator?

Becoming a truck owner can be a fulfilling career choice if you’re ready for the challenges and responsibilities it brings. By checking your finances, understanding the industry, balancing work and life, considering maintenance and repairs, and focusing on networking and business growth, you can make an informed decision about whether this path is right for you. Don’t forget to seek advice from experienced professionals to make a smooth transition into being a truck owner.

Whether you’re interested in becoming an owner-operator or prefer to be a company driver, the first step is getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL). At our Phoenix Truck Driving School campuses, we can help you do this in as little as four weeks. 

Contact us today to learn more about our CDL training programs.

If you’ve ever been intrigued by the sight of massive trucks thundering down the highways, you’re not alone. The trucking industry plays a vital role in keeping our economy moving. Behind the wheel of these mighty vehicles are skilled truck drivers who traverse the nation, delivering goods to every corner of the country. Let’s uncover some intriguing and fun facts about the trucking world, shedding light on this essential profession.

 

Here are five fun facts about trucking:

1. The Backbone of the Economy

Trucking is the lifeblood of the American economy. Approximately 72% of all freight in the United States is moved by trucks, making it the most widely used mode of transportation for goods. From food and clothing to electronics and construction materials, truck drivers ensure that essential items reach their destinations promptly and efficiently, contributing to economic growth and prosperity.

2. Essential Role in Disaster Relief

Truck drivers play a crucial role in disaster relief efforts, providing essential supplies and aid to affected areas. When natural disasters strike, such as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires, truck drivers are often at the forefront of delivering emergency relief items like food, water, medicine, and construction materials. These dedicated professionals transport goods to disaster-stricken regions, ensuring that communities receive the assistance they need. Their commitment and ability to navigate challenging conditions make them unsung heroes in times of crisis.

3. Miles Upon Miles

Did you know that the total distance traveled by commercial trucks in the United States annually could travel 651,000 round trips to the moon? Truck drivers cover an astounding number of miles, clocking in around 300 billion miles annually. Additionally, close to 16 million active commercial vehicles operate in the United States, with over 3.5 million truck drivers behind the wheel. This means that if you stack up these big rigs, they will reach the moon. 

4. Women in Trucking

While trucking has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, the number of women entering the profession is steadily rising. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and promotion of opportunities for women in trucking. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), female truck drivers comprise approximately 15% of the industry’s workforce. As more women recognize the advantages of a career in trucking, they are breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, proving that gender is no obstacle to success on the open road.

5. High-Tech Trucks

Gone are the days when trucking was solely reliant on raw horsepower. Modern trucks are equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances safety, efficiency, and overall performance. These technologies have revolutionized the industry, from collision avoidance systems and GPS navigation to advanced driver assistance features. Not only do they contribute to safer roads, but they also help drivers optimize fuel consumption and streamline logistics. Aspiring truck drivers can look forward to mastering these advanced systems and being part of the evolving technological landscape in the trucking world.

Join The Rapidly Growing Trucking Industry Today

Start your truck driving career today with Phoenix Truck Driving School! Our experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive programs ensure you have the skills and knowledge to succeed. Join us and turn your passion into a flexible, stable, and exciting profession. 

Contact one of our advisors to enroll in Phoenix Truck Driving School today!

If you’re thinking about becoming a professional driver or already working as one, you might be wondering how to move forward in your career path. The trucking industry has plenty of opportunities for growth and improvement. In this blog, we’ll explore career advancement opportunities for truckers and explain why attending a trusted truck driving school can give you an edge in the industry.

Get Additional Certifications

One effective way to improve your trucking career is by getting additional certifications. These special endorsements, like hazardous materials (hazmat), tanker, or doubles/triples, show you have more skills and can do different truck driving jobs well. These certifications make you more valuable to employers and can lead to higher-paying positions.

Focus on a Specialized Area

While being an experienced driver is great, specializing in a specific area can lead to better career opportunities. You could explore areas like refrigerated transport, oversized loads, or intermodal trucking. Specializing in these niches often means higher pay and unique experiences that can boost your professional growth.

Continue Your Education

Continued learning is vital in any job, including trucking. Staying up to date with industry trends, regulations, and new technology will keep you ahead of the game. Consider attending seminars, workshops, or online courses to expand your knowledge and learn new skills. Investing in your education shows that you’re committed to growing professionally, and your chances of career advancement increase.

Build Professional Relationships

Networking is crucial in any career, and trucking is no exception. Join trucking associations, attend industry conferences, and participate in online forums or social media groups for truck drivers. These platforms allow you to connect with industry experts, learn from experienced professionals, and discover job openings and advancements. Building a solid network can open doors to new opportunities and help you establish a good reputation in the industry.

Become an Owner-Operator

Becoming an owner-operator is a significant step toward career advancement in the trucking industry. It gives you more control over your earnings, schedule, and choice of routes. Owning your truck allows you to build your business, establish client relationships, and earn higher profits. However, becoming an owner-operator requires careful financial planning and a solid understanding of the industry, so it’s a good idea to have a few years of driving experience under your belt first.

Attend a Reputable Truck Driving School

Consider attending a trusted truck driving school to give yourself the best chance at success and career advancement. These schools offer comprehensive training programs covering all the essential skills, safety rules, and industry best practices. Attending a reputable school means receiving quality education and practical experience, making you more appealing to employers.

Advance Your Career With Phoenix Truck Driving School

To maximize your potential and gain a competitive edge, receiving comprehensive training and education from a reputable truck driving school is essential. We offer top-notch training programs at Phoenix Truck Driving School that equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in the trucking industry. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals. Don’t miss the chance to take your truck driving career to new heights. 

Enroll with us today and embark on a fulfilling and successful journey in the world of trucking.

Starting a trucking career can be exciting and rewarding. However, your first year as a truck driver may also come with many lessons. To make the most of this journey, having the knowledge and driving skills to be successful is essential. In this blog post, we’ll share valuable tips to help you succeed in your first year as a truck driver.

 

Eight tips to help your first-year trucking go smoothly are:

1. Learn the Basics

During your trucking training, focus on mastering the basics of truck driving. Learn to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection, shift gears correctly, and brake properly. Pay attention to safety rules, as they are critical in a truck driving job. By building a solid foundation of skills, you’ll have a better start to your first year on the road.

2. Manage Your Time

Time management is crucial for truck drivers. Delivering goods on time requires good trip planning and organization. Create a schedule and stick to it, allowing time for rest breaks, meals, and fuel stops. Prioritize your tasks and manage your time wisely to work efficiently and avoid stress.

3. Take Care of Your Health

Truck driving can be physically demanding, so taking care of your health is necessary. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and include regular exercise in your routine. Take breaks to stretch and avoid sitting for too long. Sleeping is also vital for staying alert and driving safely, so establish a consistent sleep schedule.

4. Keep Learning

The trucking industry is ever-changing, so truckers must constantly learn and adapt. Attend workshops, webinars, and industry events to stay updated on the latest rules and technologies. Stay informed about changes in traffic laws, safety guidelines, and best practices to ensure you’re always following the rules and doing your best.

5. Improve Your Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication is crucial in trucking. Keep communication open with dispatchers, shippers, and receivers. Share important information proactively and respond to their needs. Effective communication will help you handle difficult situations and build good professional relationships.

6. Prioritize Safety

As a truck driver, safety should always be your top priority. Follow speed limits, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and always wear your seatbelt. Be aware of changing weather conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. Regularly check your truck and report any issues right away. By prioritizing safety, you’ll protect yourself, your cargo, and others on the road.

7. Find Support

Trucking can sometimes be a lonely job, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Build a network of fellow truck drivers who can offer advice, share experiences, and support. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to trucking can be helpful resources for connecting with others in the industry.

8. Choose a Good Truck Driving School

Before hitting the road, getting proper training from a trustworthy truck driving school is crucial. Look for an accredited school that offers comprehensive programs to teach you the necessary skills. A good school will give you both classroom lessons and hands-on training to prepare you for the job.

Start Your Truck Driving Career at Phoenix Truck Driving School

Are you looking to start a career as a professional truck driver? At Phoenix Truck Driving School, our reputable school provides comprehensive training programs to equip new drivers with the necessary skills for success. With a blend of classroom instruction and road training, our experienced instructors will guide you through the basics and prepare you for real-world challenges you’ll face during your first year of trucking and beyond.

Contact one of our advisors to enroll at Phoenix Truck Driving School today.

Unloading cargo is a crucial part of the trucking industry that requires precision and efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned trucker or a rookie, understanding the process, the different methods, and what to do when you arrive at the receiver can significantly enhance your productivity. 

The Unloading Process

The unloading process involves removing cargo from a truck at its destination. It typically begins with verifying the delivery paperwork, checking for damages, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. 

Unloading Methods

Depending on the type of delivery there are two primary unloading methods: live loads and drop and hook.

Live Loads

A live load is an unloading situation where the driver must remain on-site during unloading operations. This scenario can sometimes be time-consuming and requires patience. In most cases, you will not need to actually unload the cargo as a trucker, although some positions do involve loading and unloading. Check with your company if you aren’t sure. 

Drop and Hook

In contrast to a live load, drop and hook is often a more efficient unloading method. Here, the trucker delivers a trailer filled with cargo, drops it off at the destination, and then picks up an empty trailer to continue on their journey. This process often reduces wait times during unloading, allowing truckers to optimize their time on the road. That being said, there can still be situations where you need to wait for a new trailer, so the exact time at the receiver will vary. 

Tips for Truckers at the Receiver

To maximize efficiency and ensure a smooth unloading experience, consider the following tips when you arrive at the receiver:

Plan Ahead

Research and familiarize yourself with the receiver’s unloading procedures, parking facilities, and potential challenges. This knowledge will help you prepare accordingly and anticipate any likely delays.

Communicate

Establish effective communication with the receiver’s staff. Maintain a professional demeanor, ask for specific instructions, and clarify expectations. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and streamline the process.

Safety First

Truckers should prioritize safety at all times, especially when at the receiver. Park your truck in designated areas, utilize safety equipment when necessary, and follow the receiver’s safety guidelines. Proper safety precautions ensure the well-being of everyone involved and minimize the risk of accidents.

Time Management

Efficient time management is crucial in the trucking industry. Prioritize your deliveries, allocate sufficient time for unloading, and plan your route accordingly. Avoid rushing, but also strive to complete your tasks promptly, maintaining a balance that optimizes productivity.

Stay Organized

Keep your paperwork, including bills of lading, delivery receipts, and any other necessary documents, organized and readily accessible. An organized approach saves time, minimizes errors, and demonstrates professionalism.

Professional Attitude

Maintain a professional attitude throughout the unloading process. Treat the receiver’s staff respectfully, follow instructions diligently, and remain patient and calm even in challenging situations. A positive attitude fosters good relationships and can make future interactions smoother.

Launch Your Trucking Career Today

Are you ready to launch your trucking career? With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to safety and professionalism, Phoenix Truck Driving School a great place to start. Our experienced instructors will teach you all the skills necessary to become a professional truck driver, including unloading. Don’t pass up this opportunity to earn your commercial driver’s license, join a booming industry, and experience the freedom of the open road. 

Contact one of our advisors today to enroll in our truck driver training program.

When it comes to trucking, time management is key to success. Drivers need to be able to maximize their hours of service and make the most of their driving time in order to increase their earning potential. By taking the proper steps to manage their time, truckers can ensure they stay in compliance with the hours of service regulations while still making the most of their time on the road.  

Here are some tips for managing your time as a trucker:

1. Plan Ahead

The most important step in time management for truckers is to plan ahead. Planning out your route, stops, and rest times ahead of time helps ensure you stay in compliance with the hours of service regulations and also allows you to make the most of your driving time. It’s also important to plan for any potential delays or road closures that may occur, as this can help you stay on schedule and avoid any potential problems.  

2. Make Time For Rest

Another important factor to consider is how much rest you need. Truckers should always take the time to rest and refuel, when necessary, as this can help them stay alert and focused while on the road. It’s also important to keep track of your rest time and make sure you are getting the right amount of rest to stay in compliance with the hours of service regulations. 

3. Take Advantage Of Technology

Finally, it’s important to remember to use technology to your advantage. There are many tools and apps available to professional drivers that can help them manage their time more efficiently. From tracking their hours of service to planning out their routes, these tools can help drivers maximize their time on the road and stay in compliance with regulations.  

What To Do When Things Don’t Go As Planned

Even with the best time management skills, there may still be times when things don’t go as planned on the road. In these instances, it’s important to communicate with your dispatcher (or another contact person, if applicable) so they can keep the customer updated. This isn’t directly related to time management, but it can still help you save time in the long run since you’ll be able to deal with potential issues more quickly. It’s also essential for maintaining a strong reputation with your company.

Becoming A Trucker

If you’re interested in entering the trucking industry, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help you get started. We offer commercial driver’s license (CDL) training in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. With our programs, you can earn your license in as little as four weeks. We teach our students valuable skills, including tips on time management and an overview of the hours of service regulations.

To learn more about earning your CDL, contact us today.

Whether you’re a truck driver, a dispatcher, or a logistics manager, communication is essential in the trucking industry. Having a strong communication system in place not only helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page, but it can also help to improve safety, increase efficiency, and build a positive reputation for your business.

Here’s why communication matters for trucking professionals:

Safety

For starters, communication is essential for the safety of both drivers and other motorists. Without accurate and timely communication, drivers may not know about traffic accidents, road construction, or other hazards that could affect their route. By communicating regularly and effectively, drivers can keep their team aware of these conditions and get any support they need.

Efficiency

Communication is also key to improving efficiency. Without communication, dispatchers may not know what routes drivers are taking or where they are at any given time. This can lead to delays and inefficient routes, resulting in lost miles and wasted time. By communicating regularly, drivers are better able to take the most efficient routes and stay on schedule.  

Reputation

Finally, good communication can help build a positive reputation. For drivers, this can translate into more miles over time as your company learns that it can count on you. For the motor carrier as a whole, communication is key for building trust with customers. It keeps the operation running smoothly and ensures that goods are delivered on time, and everyone involved stays updated throughout the process.

Staying On The Same Page

The importance of communication in the trucking industry can’t be overstated. Drivers, dispatchers, and logistics managers all need to be on the same page if they want to succeed. By communicating regularly, they can ensure that they’re taking the most efficient routes, staying safe, and building a positive reputation for their business.

Want To Become A Trucker?

Earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step to a rewarding career in the trucking industry. At Phoenix Truck Driving School, we have programs in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, and we offer job placement assistance to help you start earning as quickly as possible. Many of our students even have offers prior to graduation. Our skilled instructors also have real-world experience in the trucking industry and can teach you valuable skills that will continue to benefit you throughout your career in the trucking industry, including tips for better communication.

Start your trucking career and contact us today.

A trucking career is truly unique and is more of a lifestyle than a job. Becoming a trucker is very different from a standard 9-to-5 office job. People are drawn to this industry for a variety of different reasons.

Here are a few:

1. Freedom Of The Open Road

Over-the-road trucking takes drivers all over the country across our nation’s highways. Each day is different and truckers are responsible for their own day-to-day choices, without a boss looking over their shoulder. This sense of freedom and the opportunity to travel while getting paid is a major reason people choose to pursue trucking. The trucking lifestyle may not be for everyone, but it appeals to many who can’t imagine any other sort of career being as satisfying.

2. Stable Demand

Job stability is an important consideration and trucking is a great choice if you’re looking for stable employment. Semi-trucks move 72.2% of our nation’s freight according to the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and there is a shortage of drivers, meaning there is a strong and consistent demand for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders.

3. Competitive Pay & Benefits

Because trucking is so essential and because demand is so high, motor carriers often compete to attract new drivers. A trucking career gives you the opportunity to earn high pay and take advantage of excellent benefits. Top drivers can earn more than $72,000 a year!*

4. Sense Of Service

Without truckers, grocery store shelves wouldn’t be stocked, gas stations would run out of fuel, and hospitals wouldn’t have medication. Drivers are truly essential to keep our society running. In addition to the other benefits, many individuals are drawn to trucking because they appreciate the sense of service and contribution that it provides.

5. Accelerated Education/h3>
Many careers that offer benefits comparable to trucking require years of education. With trucking, you can earn your CDL and hit the road in as little as four weeks. This makes it easy to get started on the road to a rewarding career.

Trucker Training

Phoenix Truck Driving School has campuses in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. We can help you earn your CDL and learn the skills you need to succeed as a trucker. Our students come from diverse backgrounds and are drawn to trucking for a variety of reasons, and we provide all of them with high-quality training. Many of our students have job offers even before they graduate and we offer job placement assistance at all of our schools.

To learn more about our CDL training programs, contact us today.

*Professional truck drivers earn a mean annual wage of $48,310 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes533032.htm). The top 10% of truck drivers make more than $72,730 per year according to 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Truck driving school is an opportunity to begin the road to a rewarding career. During your training, you’ll learn about the industry and will earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL). To get the most out of your time as a trucking student, it’s helpful to know some possible mistakes and how to avoid them.

Here are some mistakes to avoid as a trucking student:

1. Not Researching Beforehand

It’s true that CDL school is a time to learn more about how trucking works, but it shouldn’t be your first exposure to information about the industry.

Before you decide to earn your license, you should understand what the day-to-day life of a trucker is like and whether this type of lifestyle is something you’re interested in. The freedom of the open road is appealing to many, but this doesn’t mean that trucking is necessarily the right fit for everyone. You should understand the benefits and challenges of becoming a driving career before you get started.

You should also research trucking schools to help ensure you are well-prepared for your career once you graduate. Make sure the program you attend meets entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements. Ask what resources the school offers and know how long the program takes to complete.

2. Having A Poor Attitude

Your mindset plays a big role in your success (or lack thereof) in the trucking industry, and this starts as soon as you enter CDL school. If you have a positive attitude and work hard to improve each day, you’ll likely fare better than if you have a negative mindset.

A poor attitude can also include feeling like you already know everything you need to. Remember that you are just getting started as a truck driver and stay open to feedback from your instructors.

3. Giving Up

Learning any new skill is hard work. With trucking, there’s also a massive vehicle involved and a responsibility to operate this vehicle safely. It’s normal to feel like trucking school is difficult, but it’s important to stay motivated even when things are challenging. Resilience will continue to be important throughout your trucking career, so it’s best to stay cultivating it early.

If you start to feel frustrated, try to remember your reasons for wanting to become a trucker. Focus on your goals and remind yourself that everyone was a rookie once, too.

4. Assuming You’re Done Learning When You Graduate

A high-quality CDL training program gives you a strong foundation as you enter your career, but it’s not the end of your growth as a trucker. You’ll continue to learn more as you hit the road with a driver trainer and eventually go solo (or head out with a driving partner). The first year as a rookie driver is often when you’ll learn the most lessons, but even after this, there’s still room for growth. Truckers who treat every day as an opportunity to improve are most likely to be successful in the industry long-term.

Accelerated Trucker Training

If you’re ready to hit the road, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help. We offer CDL training in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Our experienced instructors can teach you valuable skills that will continue to benefit you throughout your career.

To learn more about how to earn your CDL, contact us today.