LIFE ON THE ROAD WITH TOTAL

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE A TRUCK DRIVER?

Long Hours on the Road: TOTAL drivers spend the majority of their working time driving. Your “clock” will determine your legal driving window. When not driving you’ll be performing pre and post-trips to make your workday easier.

Time away from home: Truck drivers can spend weeks away from home while earning money. This can be challenging if regular contact with friends or loved ones isn’t consistent. Share your journey with people, often you’ll travel to places some aren’t able to. This can also make your experience more enjoyable!

Variety in Routes: One aspect that some drivers enjoy is the variety in routes. As opposed to repeating the same route on a dedicated lane, Over The Road drivers get to travel around the country, experiencing different landscapes, cities, and cultures.

Independence: OTR drivers have a significant amount of independence. To some extent, they have control over their schedule, as well as their routes and driving style.

Physical Demands: Driving a truck for long hours can take a toll on the body. OTR drivers must be prepared for the physical demands of the job, including sitting for extended periods of time. A good way to help balance this is to stay active whenever possible while on the road! For example, if you’re at a truck stop or customer and time allows, take a walk around the truck and trailer a few times or walk the property to stretch your legs!

Managing Logistics: TOTAL drivers are responsible for managing their schedules, including planning routes, scheduling rest breaks, and their Hours Of Service,. They must also ensure that their cargo is secure and comply with all relevant regulations.

Sleeping on the Road: TOTAL drivers will sleep in their trucks, either at designated truck stops, rest areas, or driver-friendly customers. Sleeping in a truck can be challenging which is why you should make it as cozy and comfortable as possible.

Maintaining Relationships: Maintaining relationships with family and friends comes with the territory as a truck driver due to time away from home, but communication tools like phones and video calls can be very helpful for staying connected.

Health Considerations: OTR drivers must prioritize their health despite the challenges of the job. This includes eating healthy on the road, exercising when possible, and managing stress. This can prolong your career and assist in making you feel better while on the road!

Rewards and Challenges: While the job has its challenges, many OTR drivers find it rewarding. They enjoy the freedom of the open road, the opportunity to see different parts of the country, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with delivering goods safely and on time. It is the kind of job where you really do get out of it what you put into it.

Overall, life as an OTR truck driver requires a combination of independence, resilience, and adaptability. It can be a demanding profession, but for those who enjoy driving and the freedom of the road, it can also be deeply fulfilling.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR TOTAL ORIENTATION

All TOTAL Driver hires must attend a 2-3 day driver orientation class at one of our terminals in either Jackson MS, Olive Branch MS, or Loudon TN. TOTAL covers travel to Orientation and we’ll house and feed you while you are in it. If you can’t drive yourself, we can supply you with a bus or plane ticket to your orientation location.

During orientation, you will complete the necessary paperwork, familiarize yourself with TOTAL’s company procedures, submit to a pre-employment drug screen, and complete a PST, and a road driving test. You will also be set up with Comdata Cards for Fueling/Scale Tickets/Advances, receive a copy of your MedCard, Benefits Vendor Information Card, your Driver Identification Number, and a Driver Assignment Sheet that has your Fleet Managers information.

Experienced drivers go through a 2-3 day driver orientation class at one of our Terminals in Olive Branch, Jackson MS, or Loudon TN. Depending on your location relative to available equipment you’ll either be assigned a truck at your orientation terminal, or you may need to travel to your truck. (We will help with travel arrangements.)

Brand new CDL-A holders will attend a 3 day Orientation at our headquarters in Jackson MS. After completion drivers spend the next week on our backing range. After passing the backing test drivers are paired with a Trainer for their 175hr Behind-The-Wheel OTR training. During this training students live on the truck with their trainer for 4-6 weeks. After successfully completing training and upgrading to 1st seat driver status you’ll receive your truck in the same process as above.

Again, to participate in driver orientation, you must pass a DOT physical, PST test, hair, and urine drug screen, undergo a background check, and verify previous experience and employment. Assessment of your abilities typically involves a road test, a backing test, and a pre-trip inspection test.

Prepare for orientation by ensuring you have essential documents such as a voided check for direct deposit, two forms of ID, a doctor’s note for any pre-existing medical conditions, closed-toed shoes, and any additional items specified by your recruiter, such as a social security card or passport.

If you cannot supply the required documentation or falsify any information you will be asked to leave and will not be hired. We do not hire drivers who have gone through the Substance Abuse Program.

Please note: There can be delays outside of our control in seating you in your truck. These can include waiting on drug screen results and verifications of employment from your previous employers.

FINANCIAL PREPERATION

Financial preparation tips for aspiring Over-the-Road Truck Drivers

Embarking on a career as an over-the-road (OTR) truck driver can offer lucrative opportunities, but it also requires careful financial planning. From managing expenses on the road to preparing for unexpected costs, financial preparedness is crucial for success in this profession. Here are some essential tips to help aspiring OTR truck drivers navigate the financial aspects of their career journey.

Budgeting for Training and Certification:

Please note, We do not teach CDL-A classes at TOTAL, but we do train hires with new CDL-A’s to drive over the road before giving them a truck.

Invest in Education: Before hitting the road, aspiring OTR truck drivers need to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Budget for the costs associated with CDL training programs or truck driving schools, including tuition, materials, and exam fees. TOTAL has a reimbursement program for new hires where we canrepay your CDL training costs over time.

Plan for Living Expenses: During your CDL-A training period, you may need to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation. Factor these costs into your budget to ensure a smooth transition into your new career.

TOTAL’s OTR Training: At TOTAL, all our newly hired new CDL-A holders go through a paid 175 hour (4-5 week) behind the wheel training program. During this training period new drivers will be paired with a trainer. You will be living and working on the truck together to prepare to go out alone. While in the truck training you will be paid $90 a day.

Understanding Earnings Potential:

Research Pay Structures: Familiarize yourself with different pay structures in the trucking industry, including per-mile rates, hourly wages, and salary-based compensation. Consider factors such as experience level, type of freight, and company policies when evaluating earning potential. TOTAL has a range of pay structures based on verifiable experience and driving record. Talk to your recruiter about options near you.

Account for Variables: Keep in mind that OTR trucking income can fluctuate based on factors like market demand, miles per load, and seasonal trends. Build flexibility into your budget to accommodate these fluctuations.

Managing Expenses on the Road:

Meal Planning: Eating out on the road can be expensive and unhealthy. Plan and pack meals in advance to save money and maintain a nutritious diet. Investing in a small cooler or refrigerator and portable cooking appliances can help you prepare meals on the go.

Emergency Savings and Contingency Planning:

Build an Emergency Fund: Set aside funds for emergencies and unexpected expenses, such as hotels, medical bills, or unforeseen downtime. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved in an easily accessible account.

Retirement Planning and Long-Term Goals:

Start Early: Take advantage of retirement savings options available to you, such as TOTAL’s employer-sponsored 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Even small contributions can accumulate over time, thanks to the power of compounding.

Set Financial Goals: Define your long-term financial goals, whether it’s paying off debt, saving for a home, or funding your children’s education. Create a realistic savings plan and track your progress regularly to stay on target.

Financial preparation is a critical aspect of preparing for a career as an over-the-road truck driver. By budgeting for training, understanding earning potential, managing expenses on the road, building emergency savings, and planning for long-term financial goals, aspiring OTR truck drivers can set themselves up for success and financial stability in their chosen profession. With careful planning and disciplined money management, the road to a prosperous career in trucking can be paved with financial security and peace of mind.

MAKING YOUR TRUCK A HOME

When you are on the road, your TOTAL sleeper cab serves as your work and living space. Think of it as a very small apartment stocked with your travel necessities.

While layouts can vary depending on the model of the truck. Generally, your sleeper cab’s interior includes storage compartments, a bed and places for appliances, like a mini fridge or microwave (that you will need to supply yourself). Some sleeper berths have pull-down beds that allow for more space when you aren’t resting. All TOTAL trucks come with a 2000-watt inverter or an auxiliary power unit (APU), so you can power appliances and other items.

ELEMENTS OF COMFORT TO BRING YOUR CAB

Making your cab as comfortable as possible can greatly factor into how much you enjoy being on the road. Company drivers can’t make significant changes to their trucks, but they can still add elements to personalize their rigs.

MATTRESS PAD

Of all the semi-truck sleeper accessories, a mattress pad should be at the top of your list. We will supply you with one, but you may wish to upgrade. Getting sleep is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. A comfortable mattress pad or a mattress that matches what you have at home makes it easier to rest. Along with a mattress pad, you can add color and comfort to your space with your choice of bedding and pillows.

SEAT COVERS OR CUSHIONS

You will be spending most of your time in the driver’s seat. Seat covers come in many colors, patterns and materials that can spice up the look of your cab. Seat covers also protect the interior from wear, dirt and spills.

Style points aside, seat covers or cushions can help with back pain. As you drive, vibrations from the road can increase the load on your spine. Covers and cushions absorb the shock and support your back. Some seat covers even have memory foam or massage balls to provide additional comfort. Making your seat as comfortable as possible helps you spend long hours behind the wheel.

KITCHEN APPLIANCES

Many drivers add mini-fridges and microwaves or Instapots to their cabs. Having a mini-fridge at your disposal lets you prepare and store food, so you don’t have to rely on truck stops and eating out. You can keep drinks, snacks, leftovers and microwaveable meals to eat during your downtime.

Single-serve coffee makers are also small enough to store in a cab. If you love coffee, brewing a fresh cup each morning can help you start your days off right.

RUGS, CURTAINS & SHADES

Your truck will come with curtains and window shades, you can also personalize your cab area with small rugs. These details bring your space together and help it feel more like your own. Curtains and shades also add a layer of privacy when you are resting or sleeping in your cab.

DECORATIONS

No home would be complete without decorations. Show off your personality by hanging flags or LED light strings. Pictures of family and friends help you keep loved ones close even when you’re across the country. You can hang photos and other items with Command strips or Command hooks, so you don’t damage the truck.

ENTERTAINMENT

When you aren’t driving, you can relax as you would at home with a TV, DVD player or computer. For those interested in streaming services, you will need a wifi connection. You can turn on your smartphone’s hotspot (which uses your plan’s data), or you can ask your cell phone provider about mobile hotspots like Verizon’s Jetpack or AT&T’s Nighthawk.

ORGANIZATIONAL TIPS FOR YOUR TRUCK

Learning how to organize a semi-truck is no easy task. Finding a secure place for everything you need is tricky. The first thing you’ll need to do is take stock of your cab and measure the storage spaces you have. Then, you can determine how you will store items and keep them from moving around while the truck is in motion.

Try these organizational hacks to store your belongings:

Use clear storage bins, baskets or magazine holders to keep similar items together.
Secure storage containers and storage areas with bungee cords to keep items from falling off shelves or out of cabinets.
Label storage containers so you know what is inside of them.
Hang items on the wall or inside cabinets with Command hooks or velcro strips.
Store meals in plastic bags instead of containers so they can be stacked flat in the fridge.

If you plan to travel with a pet you will need to apply for a Pet Pass. Don’t forget about storing their bed, food, water bowl and toys. Other personal items like small fans, diffusers, books and exercise bands can make living on the road more comfortable.