Trucks carry most goods in Canada and other parts of the world. Without truck drivers, people would not have access to essential goods. The Canadian trucking industry employs more than 300,000 truck drivers earning between $50,000 and $60,000 per year. Below we have listed some of the pros and cons of the trucking industry that will help you make a better decision.
Pros
- Truck drivers get a high salary
A truck driver who has a commercial driving license can earn around 35,000 dollars in the first year. All the routes and hauls across Canada are included in this estimate. You are more likely to earn twice the amount if all you need are weekends off.
Moreover, you can earn a significant amount without having a high school diploma, as the Canadian trucking industry is one of the few industries that do not require it. If you have a CDL and you keep your driving record clean and meet your deadlines-no one can stop you from getting successful.
Moreover, you can earn a significant amount without having a high school diploma, as the Canadian trucking industry is one of the few industries that do not require it. If you have a CDL and you keep your driving record clean and meet your deadlines-no one can stop you from getting successful.
- Benefits like other professionals
You will earn a lot of benefits along with your primary salary just like other workers by getting behind the wheel. Truck drivers are eligible for insurance, medical benefits, and even retirement plans. Some trucking companies in Canada offer paid holidays and several other benefits to their workers.
- It’s easy to get a commercial license
If you want to start your carrier as a commercial truck driver, many driving schools in Canada can help you get your commercial driving license. But before applying, you need to meet some basic requirements such as the age limit which can vary according to the province. The amount required to complete the CDL depends upon the certification level that you want to gain.
Cons
- A trucking job is lonely
Trucking jobs mean spending a lot of time on the road. In general, you will be all alone on the road, and there will be no one to talk to, whether you opt for the short or long haul. You will stay away from home and your family, which can make you feel lonely. For many people, this can be a significant disadvantage of doing this job.
- It is difficult to maintain a healthy diet
It is not easy to maintain a healthy diet in a trucking job. You will not have good options to eat as you have to be dependent on the convenience store on the way. Someone who eats fast food for long days may face nutritional difficulties.
- Safety tips for truckers
If you have started your first job as a truck driver, here are some tips that will help you do your job properly.
- Learn defensive driving
Defensive driving help drivers anticipate dangerous situations or potential hazards while driving. It helps drivers make well-informed decisions that reduce the risk of collision or any other conflict on the road. Some of the strategies and methods that can help you learn defensive driving are:-
· Be prepared for emergencies
Conditions can change at any time, especially on long trips- you need to be prepared for various emergencies such as poor driving conditions and breakdowns. It's a good idea to keep water, snacks, clothes, blankets, and a first aid kit in the vehicle for unexpected events, such as bad weather or lengthy repairs.
· Stay cool
Heavy traffic, honking, and irritating drivers can tempt you to indulge in road rage. But it is wise to stay calm as it can put your and others' lives in danger. Keep your distance from angry drivers and try to de-escalate the road rage situations as much as you can.
· Don’t forget to signal
Driving long stretches on the non-traffic road may tempt you to change lanes without a signal. But it can increase the likelihood of collisions. So, even if there is no vehicle on the road, signal before changing lanes.
Perform regular maintenance
Most truck driving companies perform regular maintenance to ensure the safety of the drivers and vehicles. Change of oil and brake pads at regular intervals lowers the chances of vehicle breakdown on the road.
Help other truckers
Stopping to assist someone in need/trouble or helping them in loading and unloading will help you make friends, which will also give you networking benefits.
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