We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Udemy logo

Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking

L.D. Sewell

Truck Drivers Wanted.

Great paying entry level truck driving jobs are available right now and companies are searching for drivers just like you.

Read more

Truck Drivers Wanted.

Great paying entry level truck driving jobs are available right now and companies are searching for drivers just like you.

Before you can get started you need to learn some things about the trucking industry, make sure it is a good fit for you - then if it is - go to a Truck Driving School (often called a CDL School) and get your Commercial Drivers License Class A.

Commonly called a Class A CDL.

Every year thousands of hopeful people enter the trucking industry excited to start their new careers as truck drivers. Every years thousands of broken disillusioned and angry people also leave the industry within their first few months. 

Some barely make it even a few weeks.

Why Does That Happen?

There are many reasons, but two of the main ones is not having enough accurate information and therefore having incorrect expectations - and another major reason is failing to make sure that what trucking offers is in alignment with what the new drivers needs and wants.

Sometimes it is and for some it just isn't a good fit.

This course is designed to give you a good idea of what to expect as a new entry level truck driver.

It is a no-nonsense serious look at why so many people repeatedly fail in trucking so quickly - why this happens again and again - and more importantly what you can do to make sure it doesn't happen to YOU.

The hard cold truth is that very few of the people just starting out in trucking have anywhere near enough accurate, realistic and pertinent information to understand what it really is that they are about to get themselves into.

Neither do most family members or others who will also be affected in many different ways by their loved one choosing a career in trucking. Everyone that is going to be affected needs to have an accurate expectation of what is coming and be prepared to deal with it properly as it happens. 

This course is designed to help you do just that. 

If you complete this course you will have a very good understanding of what a career in trucking is and what it is not. That way whatever you decide - you will be making an informed decision with eyes wide open. 

If you complete this course you will be better prepared to begin a career as a professional truck driver if you decide that is the right path for you. 

You will know how to continue your research and where to get the rest of the information you need to make important decisions that will help you begin to build a successful career in trucking and a better life for yourself and those you care most about.

Trucking Career Success and Trucking Business Success

When you have good information and know that trucking is indeed the career that you want to pursue - you are off to a better start already.

Then combine that with getting training and support which you will use to set and work toward specific goals from day one and you will be able to make a great living, earning more money than most people in other jobs ever will - and you will also have a great life.

That is if you put in the work and effort to learn what to do and then do it all consistently.

Trucking can offer you a great career, great pay and benefits, unlimited opportunities to advance your career in multiple ways and - a great lifestyle if it's the right one for you. If this sounds like what you are looking for, then hit the button and I will see you inside the course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • What a career as a professional truck driver actually entails, and how to ask the right questions to the right people and get better information
  • The main objective of this course is to give the student enough information to make better decisions as they build a trucking career or trucking business
  • Make an informed decision on whether to continue researching trucking as a career - or decide that its's not right for you at this time in your life.
  • If you are taking the course for other interests you will have a better idea of what entry level trucking really looks like

Syllabus

test
Introduction to The Course and Section 1 Overview
Realistic Pay Expectations
Time Away From Home and Time At Home
Read more
Other Reasons Why People Quit and How to Avoid Them
How to Successfully Prepare For Your New Lifestyle

Driver Qualifications

There are  many limitations and specifications on requirements that limit who can qualify for a CDL and drive in interstate commerce. 

The best place to get this information is directly from the source itself - the FMCSR's or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations - which is where you will find the individual requirements and interpretive guidelines as well.

Before you invest too much time and money toward getting a CDL and becoming a truck driver it would be a very good idea to carefully read and study these regulations and be sure you meet all requirements.

In years gone by I have met several drivers who somehow got into and graduated from truck driving schools (and had the debt to prove it) but who were not employable because they did not meet requirements. 

One that comes to mind was an insulin dependent diabetic.

Another was a 20 year old a few months shy of his 21st birthday. For interstate commerce you must be 21 or older - NOT ALMOST 21 - in his case its was a minor irritation and he just had to wait a few months and do a refresher class at his school.

In the case of the diabetic - he was unable to start his new career and it was a devastating blow to his plans, not to mention a massive expense.

These are just two examples - there are may other potential issues.

Please read carefully through the regulations and be sure you meet all minimum requirements. If you have any doubts discuss your concerns with the doctor you select to do your DOT physical and with the truck driving school you are thinking of attending, and with any motor carrier you are looking at applying to as well.

Finally - if you still don't have the answer you need ask the FMCSA directly for clarification.

Initial Training Overview – Truck Driving School and Beyond
Selecting Interviewing and Applying to Your First Trucking Company
Trucking Company Road Training
Equipment Types and Considerations
Section 1 Summary
Have a good understanding of what to expect at this phase of your career and become much better prepared as a result. This will increase your chances of success and decrease your stress level too.
Section 2 Overview
Career Planning and Long Term Goals
What to Expect During Truck Driving School
Road Training With Your First Company
Managing Your First Year After Training
Developing Good Driving and Personal Habits
Log Book Procedures and Trip Planning
Tactics to Develop Practical Skills Faster
How You Can Earn More As a Rolling Recruiter
Effective Communication Skills
Section 2 Summary – What We Covered…

General Knowledge of Entry Level Trucking 

Information and understanding what trucking is and what it isn't will help you make the decision to proceed or change course and find another career if trucking isn't the right career for you.

If it is the right path for you then having the right information will help you  be able to have a much better start to your new career than most - and become more successful faster than otherwise possible!

Lets see what you have learned so far...

By knowing what to bring, how to set up your truck, and live effectively on the road you will perform better and have a much better quality of life
Section 3 Overview
The Job and The Lifestyle of Trucking
Meal Planning – How to Save Money and Eat Better
Exercise Techniques That Actually Work On and Off The Road
Making Good use of your time
Sleeping Considerations
Stress Management and Recreation
Setting Up Your Truck for Maximum Productivity and Comfort
Section 3 Summary and Information Available to You in Course Resources
Self Quiz
Thoughts and Comments
Have a good understanding of key regulations that affect you as a professional truck driver and know why continuing education on defensive driving and safety overall is so very important.
Section 4 Overview
Understanding the FMCSR’s
Additional Risks You Need to Know About

WARNING!             This lecture and the following lecture may be upsetting to you.                WARNING!

I am going to tell you about real events where people have been killed - and other events where people have been seriously injured and where property was destroyed or damaged. I have changed the names and locations and enough details to protect the innocent and the guilty involved - however these are all real life tragedies. 

IF YOU EVEN THINK YOU MAY BE UPSET THEN SKIP This Lecture and also SKIP  THE FOLLOWING LECTURE - The Dead Drivers Club !

The Dead Driver's Club - And What You Can Do to Avoid Becoming A Member
Know Your Rights, Responsibilities and Risks
Defensive Safe Driving Procedures and Considerations
Summary of This Course - Key Points and Where You Can Get Additional Information
Congratulations on Finishing This Course! Now It's Decision Time ...
Call 3 Trucking Companies
Getting The Big Picture and Setting Specific Goals
Additional Information and Resources To Help You

How To Get Additional Information, Help And Support

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops essential skills for drivers starting their career in trucking, which is always helpful for beginners
Clearly delineates key regulations and risks in trucking that directly impact drivers
Taught by a professional driver, who are recognized for their work in their field
Provides advice on how to succeed in the trucking industry
Features career path planning and tips to help make informed decisions
Requires students to call 3 trucking companies, which may be daunting for some students who fear making phone calls

Save this course

Save Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking with these activities:
Create a playlist of songs that you can listen to while driving
Help you stay entertained and focused while on the road.
Browse courses on Music
Show steps
  • Choose songs that you enjoy
  • Create a playlist
  • Listen to your playlist while driving
Read The Truck Driver's Bible by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen
Provides tips and advice for successful truck drivers.
Show steps
  • Purchase the book
  • Read the book
  • Reflect on what you have read
Review how trucks are loaded properly
Ensures good understanding of truck weight and balance.
Show steps
  • Read your textbook
  • Review your notes from previous classes
  • Watch online videos
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Discuss the challenges of being a truck driver with other students
Will help you develop a support system and hear from others going through the same thing.
Show steps
  • Find a study buddy or group
  • Meet up regularly to discuss the material
  • Share notes and resources
Practice defensive driving techniques
Practice techniques that could prevent accidents.
Browse courses on Defensive Driving
Show steps
  • Review your textbook
  • Review your notes from previous classes
  • Watch online videos
  • Take an online course
Volunteer at a local trucking company
Will give you hands-on experience in the trucking industry.
Browse courses on Volunteering
Show steps
  • Find a local trucking company to volunteer at
  • Contact the company and ask about volunteer opportunities
  • Complete any necessary training
  • Volunteer your time
Learn about the different federal regulations that apply to truck drivers
Will help you improve your knowledge of the laws that apply to you as a driver.
Show steps
  • Review your textbook
  • Review your notes from previous classes
  • Watch online videos
  • Take an online course
Participate in a trucking competition
Will give you a chance to test your skills against other drivers.
Show steps
  • Find a competition to participate in
  • Practice your driving skills
  • Compete in the competition
Create a blog or vlog about your experiences as a truck driver
Can help you develop your writing and communication skills and share your experiences with others.
Browse courses on Blogging
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your blog or vlog
  • Create a posting schedule
  • Write or record your content
  • Publish your content

Career center

Learners who complete Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Truck Driver
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the trucking industry and the role of truck drivers. It covers topics such as job responsibilities, pay, time away from home, and the challenges and rewards of the profession. Taking this course can help you make an informed decision about whether a career as a truck driver is right for you and can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this field.
Transportation Manager
Transportation managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of the movement of goods and people. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a transportation manager.
Freight Broker
Freight brokers are responsible for arranging the transportation of goods for shippers and carriers. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a freight broker.
Fleet Manager
Fleet managers are responsible for the management and operation of a fleet of vehicles. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a fleet manager.
Logistics Coordinator
Logistics coordinators are responsible for the planning and coordination of the movement of goods and materials. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a logistics coordinator.
Inventory Manager
Inventory managers are responsible for the management and control of inventory. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as an inventory manager.
Warehouse Manager
Warehouse managers are responsible for the management and operation of a warehouse. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a warehouse manager.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of the movement of goods and materials. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a supply chain manager.
Distribution Center Manager
Distribution center managers are responsible for the management and operation of a distribution center. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a distribution center manager.
Project Manager
Project managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of projects. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a project manager.
Business Analyst
Business analysts are responsible for the analysis of business processes and the development of solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a business analyst.
Sales Manager
Sales managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of sales activities. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a sales manager.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of marketing activities. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a marketing manager.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of human resources activities. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a human resources manager.
Operations Manager
Operations managers are responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of the day-to-day operations of an organization. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in the trucking industry and the knowledge and skills you need to be successful as an operations manager.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking.
Is the official manual for the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) exam. It contains all of the information that you need to know to pass the exam and obtain your CDL.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the trucking industry, including information on different types of trucks, trucking companies, and trucking regulations. It useful resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the industry and how to get started in it.
Provides information on how to stay safe on the road. It covers everything from defensive driving techniques to how to avoid accidents.
Provides information on the technical aspects of truck driving. It covers everything from engine maintenance to troubleshooting.
Offers a glimpse into the long-haul trucking industry through a collection of humorous and insightful stories from a veteran driver.
This report provides an overview of the trucking industry, including its history, current state, and future prospects.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Truck Driving - An Introduction to Professional Trucking.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser