Starting a career as a commercial truck driver is a big step, and the early days on the road can be both challenging and exciting. While you may have mastered the physical skills of driving a large vehicle, success as a rookie driver is about more than just steering and shifting gears. It’s about building a foundation of good habits that will support you throughout your entire career.
We’ve got five great tips to help new truck drivers navigate the early stages of their careers with confidence, from landing that first job to staying safe and efficient on the road for years to come.
Tip 1: The Job Search
Landing your first trucking job can feel like a daunting task, but a strategic approach can make all the difference. When you're searching for employment, look for companies that are known for their supportive training and positive company culture.
To make your resume stand out from other candidates, it's a good idea to seek out additional certifications. Certifications like WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) or Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) can show employers that you are proactive about safety and professional development.
If you’ve just finished training, check with your school to see if they offer any job search assistance, like access to job boards that provide access to job postings from reputable companies across British Columbia and beyond. Some companies will even give priority to students who train at specific schools. Valley Driving School is proud to be one of those!
Your resume is more than just a list of past jobs; it's an opportunity to highlight transferable skills. If you've worked in customer service, retail, or a warehouse, you've likely developed strong time management, problem-solving, and communication skills—all of which are valuable to a trucking company.
Finally, while it may be tempting to go straight for the big cross-country hauls, consider starting with local delivery or short-haul routes. These opportunities are a great way to build confidence, gain valuable on-the-job experience, and get comfortable with your new career before taking on longer journeys.
Tip 2: Safety First, Always
Nothing is more important than safety. While you’ve just finished your training, putting safety at the top of your mind every time you get behind the wheel is a habit you should cultivate from day one.
Safety means watching over yourself but also your equipment, and this means starting any drive with a pretrip inspection. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before every shift is an important routine to complete. This routine check of your lights, brakes, tires, and fluid levels can catch a small issue before it becomes a major roadside problem.
Road awareness is also key. Always be aware of your surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and give yourself plenty of space to react. This is especially true when navigating challenging areas like the busy port routes in Vancouver or the steep descents of the Coquihalla Highway, where conditions can change quickly.
Lastly, prioritize proper rest. Managing fatigue is not only a matter of regulation but also a personal responsibility. Listen to your body and make sure you're getting enough sleep. A well-rested driver is an alert driver, and an alert driver is a safe driver!
Tip 3: Fuel Efficiency
Fuel is one of a trucking company's biggest expenses. By being mindful of your driving habits, you can help save your company money and reduce your own environmental impact. Practice smooth driving by avoiding harsh acceleration and sudden braking. This is not just a matter of comfort; a smooth driving style can dramatically improve your vehicle’s fuel economy. Think of it as a dance: you want to be light on your feet, not abrupt.
Another easy way to save fuel is to avoid unnecessary idling. Idling can consume several litres of fuel per hour. If you're going to be stopped for more than a minute, it's more efficient to turn off the engine.
Regular vehicle maintenance also plays a large role in fuel savings. Well maintained engines, correctly inflated tires, and proper alignments can all help your truck run more efficiently. If the company is responsible for maintenance and repairs, be sure to report any issues right away so they can be addressed promptly.
Tip 4: Plan Your Route
For a rookie truck driver, a well-planned route can reduce stress and increase efficiency. Before you even get in the truck, take the time to plan your journey using the right tools.
While popular apps like Trucker Path can help you find truck stops, weigh stations, and fuel, try starting with official resources. In British Columbia, DriveBC is your most important government tool for real-time road conditions, traffic cameras, and highway incidents. For routes in Metro Vancouver, the TransLink Truck Route Planner helps you navigate restrictions and bypass low clearances.
The weather forecast and traffic reports are an important step in route planning and turn an unforgiving route into a pleasant drive. For example, checking the BC Highway Cams on DriveBC before leaving from Abbotsford can give you a real-time look at road conditions and help you avoid unexpected delays on Highway 1.
Make sure you know where you're going and what to expect. Plan for your fuel stops, rest areas, and especially your delivery locations. Knowing if a drop-off is in a tight urban area or a spacious rural yard allows you to prepare and avoid unnecessary stress.
Tip 5: A Professional Attitude
Professionalism extends beyond the cab and includes how you interact with others and manage your work. Good communication with your dispatch team is key to a smooth operation. Be clear, concise, and proactive in your communication, especially if you anticipate delays or have a problem.
Learning to manage the stress of the job is also a valuable skill. Delays, bad weather, and tight schedules are all part of the job but remaining calm and practical in these situations will make your life easier and show your employer that you're a capable and reliable driver. Being a courteous driver on the road also goes a long way!
-
Your journey as a rookie truck driver begins with a commitment to these core principles. The open road has unlimited opportunities for learning, and every kilometre is a chance to grow. By focusing on a smart job search, a mindful approach to safety, and a sharp eye for fuel efficiency and route planning, you're building more than just a resume—you're building a reputation. Embrace these habits with a professional attitude, and you'll find that the road ahead is not only safer but also a fulfilling path to a rewarding career.
For more valuable insights on a trucking career, be sure to explore our other blog posts. For tips on starting out, you might be interested in Landing Your First Trucking Job, or to help you decide on your career path, check out Solo vs. Team Truck Driving: Which is Right for You?