You are ready to start your truck driving career, but how do you find local trucking jobs. Well, read on for essential tips you can use to score opportunities.
In the US, there are more than 3.5 million truck drivers. Over the past 15 years, the nation has struggled with the shortage of truck drivers.
Why?
It all started with the Great Recession in 2008. Several companies went bankrupt leading to loss of local trucking jobs. During this period, the shipping volume plummeted.
Currently, the US is still experiencing a shortage but this time, the main reason is not a recession. It is the age of the existing workforce.
The average driver age is 49 years. Many drivers are expected to retire translating to a driver shortage.
Based on recent statistics, 70.6% of all freight is moved on US highways. This volume will increase meaning the existing group of drivers will be strained.
Want to become a truck driver? This is the best time for you to enter the industry. The demand for long haul truckers is high. As such, you can negotiate for better pay and benefits.
Follow these 4 expert tips on how to land local trucking jobs and the opportunity is yours.
Create a Personalized Kit
Before getting the job, there are a few requirements you need to fulfill. Familiarising yourself with the requirements simplifies the onboarding process and the interview.
Here is what you need.
- Birth certificate
- Social security card
- CDL
- Truck driving school certificate
- Motor vehicle record
An updated DOT physical copy, copies of your DAC and CSA reports are a must.
By putting together the documents above, you prove to your new boss that you are:
- Professional
- Organized
- Dedicated
- Respectful of his time
- Ready for the job
If you acquired your license recently, you may not have the DAC and CSA reports. Don’t worry. You can always apply for OTR jobs, gain experience and later apply for CDL jobs.
Polish Your Resume
Whether you have truck driving experience or not, having a professional resume is a plus. In today’s job market, a professional resume makes a difference. Not only can you impress your employer on paper but you get to inform him what you can do for the company.
Based on research, 40% of hiring managers spend less than 60 seconds reviewing a resume. To ensure your resume stands out, make it scan-friendly.
Instead of burying your major accomplishments, highlight them. Use statistics and numbers as they are easy to spot. Format your resume to make it visually appealing.
How?
Avoid hard to read fonts and use of boldface and italics.
Start with Entry-Level Local Trucking Jobs
Like any other profession, drivers have personal and professional goals too. To have a lucrative career, you must start somewhere.
Entry level local trucking jobs allow you to work for your dream company and gain experience as well.
Yes, the truck driver salary may be low but the opportunity gets you closer to a higher paying job.
There are several ways you can use to find entry-level positions.
- Trucking only job sites
- Your connections
- Truckstop bulletin boards
- Trucking forums
- State’s Trucking Association
- Local dailies
One good example of a trucking only job site is CDLJobs.com. The platform has over 10,000 trucking jobs from over 100 carriers. With one easy application, you can match your qualifications and find a job.
Prepare for the Interview
Want to land your dream job? Prepare for the interview as this allows you to be in control, to act cool, and calm. These are qualities that your future employer is looking for.
When preparing for an interview, here is what you need to do:
- Compare your qualifications and skills with the job requirements
- Research the trucking company
- Plan what to wear
- Prepare your responses
- Bring extra copies of your resume
- Bring your personalized kit
Always have a list of companies that have interviewed you. Note the name, location and website URL(if any) in case they call you back for another interview.
What to Expect After Getting the Job
Now that you have landed one of the local trucking jobs you applied for, there are a few things to keep in mind. Before driving, pre-inspect your truck. That includes windshield wipers, mirrors, horn, tire, oil, and fuel levels.
Make sure the cargo is secure. When on the road, maintain a respectable distance. Do not speed and keep an eye out for aggressive drivers.
Always wear a safety belt, maintain good physical health, and avoid the use of alcohol. Don’t forget to keep an excellent driving record.
Want to get your trucking license? Contact us today and start your new career.
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