The trucking industry is currently experiencing a massive need for new truckers. Due to COVID-19, there has been an increase in demand for trucks worldwide, especially in the US. While this created an opportunity for building a promising career, there are many misconceptions about the job. With that in mind, we want to talk more about the most common myths and shed some light on the misconceptions about a career in trucking.
Salaries are low
When starting a career as a truck driver, one of the things that everyone wants to know is what the pay is. A common misconception is that truckers don’t earn much money today. That is not true. For example, a Boston truck driver can make anywhere from $70000 to $90000.
Salaries are significantly higher for the Hazmat drivers.
The job is boring
It may seem not very interesting when we think about what a truck driver does. You are constantly behind the wheel, driving all day long. However, a trucking career is anything but boring. Every trip is an opportunity to visit a part of a country you have never been to before. Also, truck drivers are primarily people that love to drive. Being behind the wheel is something they enjoy doing.
Furthermore, you need to be alert at all times. Driving large trucks requires more attention, so you will never get bored.
Another thing to add is that the trucking community is very connected. You are constantly on the line with dispatchers and other truck drivers. You are a part of a substantial fleet of truckers, ensuring that the shipment is delivered on time.
This job is only for men
The topic of equality between men and women is a hot one today. There is a common belief that the trucking industry is for men only. There are no female drivers, and women are interested in this type of career.
However, we saw an increase in the number of female drivers in the trucking industry in the past two years, especially in cities like Portland or Orlando. Women drivers have broken all the boundaries and proven that a trucking career is not limited to one gender.
Driving a truck is not a safe job
We often hear about driving accidents on the road. There are also stories about attacks on truck drivers or the dangers of driving hazardous materials. While it is true that the job comes with a certain level of risk, that risk is no higher than the risk of any driver that sits behind the wheel.
The only difference is that the truck drivers drive longer, so technically there are more chances for something to go wrong. However, we have to mention that the new training for the entry-level truck drivers is taking place right now. Due to more thorough training, we have better drivers behind the wheels. This increases the general safety of the truck drivers and anyone else on the road.
Becoming a driver is expensive
Another thing to mention is the myth that becoming a truck driver is expensive. Truck driving schools charge a lot of money to train the new drivers. However, if you compare the training fee with a four-year college education, you will see it’s pretty affordable.
We all know how crippling college debts may be, and many students today struggle to get an education. Pursuing a career in trucking is an alternative for those that do not wish to pay off college tuition debt.
Furthermore, it is essential to note that you can become a truck driver after only a year from starting your training!
This job has no future
One of the biggest misconceptions of all is that a career in the trucking industry has no future. Truckers are necessary because they move goods all around the world. Without them, the logistics industry would disappear, and that will not happen.
Cities like New York, Washington DC, and New Hampshire saw an influx of new truck drivers in the past year because of the many job options for this profession. People are moving to find many opportunities here. So, the future of their career is undoubtedly safe.
The career in trucking is a promising one because the demand for truck drivers is never going away.
Constant changes of the rules and regulations are making the job more difficult
It is common to see changes in the rules and regulations in the trucking industry, and the year 2022 is no exception. There is a lot of talk about the new fuel-efficiency rules, the financial responsibilities of freight forwarders, and the integration of autonomous driving technologies.
As always, the opinions are split. Some think that the new, more strict rules are good, while others believe they will hinder the job and push away new drivers. However, one sure thing is that the trucking industry is improving due to these rules.
Fuel-efficiency rules impose more strict regulations to reduce our carbon footprint. Also, autonomous driving technologies will make driving more precise and safer. What’s important is that the industry is moving forward, which is always a good thing.
Common misconceptions about a career in trucking explained
The myths we have busted today are:
- pay in the trucking industry is low;
- the job is tedious;
- only men can be truck drivers;
- driving a truck is a dangerous job;
- it is too expensive to become a truck driver;
- there is no future in the trucking industry;
- too many rule changes make the job more difficult.
These common misconceptions about a career in trucking are posing a problem for the trucking industry. It is our duty to tell the truth about the realities of a career as a truck driver and break down all the walls that these myths lifted. Many people are struggling to find a job, and a career in trucking might be just what they need. With that in mind, let’s share the truth together and help the truckers so they can continue to provide exceptional service all over the world!
Image links:
https://pixabay.com/photos/truck-driver-transport-traffic-4933514/
https://pixabay.com/photos/truck-highway-logistics-2138974/
https://pixabay.com/photos/truck-field-grain-harvest-stubble-2526308/
https://pixabay.com/photos/trucker-sunrise-truck-stop-sunset-2946821/
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