If you’re considering a career in truck driving, you may have come across team truck driving jobs.
Team driving involves two drivers working together to transport cargo across long distances, and it has become an increasingly popular option for trucking companies.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at team drivers, including their benefits, challenges, and requirements.
What is Team Truck Driving?
Team drivers involves two drivers operating the same truck to transport cargo over long distances.
The drivers work in shifts, taking turns driving and resting, allowing the truck to travel continuously without stopping.
This enables teams to cover more ground in less time, making it an efficient and cost-effective way for trucking companies to transport goods.
Benefits of Team Truck Drivers
Increased Earnings
One of the primary benefits of team drivers is that they typically pay more than solo driving positions. Being paid weekly, usually direct deposit into their LLC. Team driving jobs also usually have other benefits such as vision insurance, pet program, sign on bonus and more.
Since teams can travel longer distances in less time, they can complete more deliveries and earn more money. A lot of companies offer team matching program for drivers. The right candidate usually goes above average miles per week.
Faster Deliveries
Team driving also allows for faster delivery times since the truck can travel continuously without stopping.
This is especially important for time-sensitive shipments, such as perishable goods or medical supplies.
Improved Safety
Team truck driving can also be safer than solo driving since there are always two drivers in the truck.
This means that if one driver becomes fatigued or ill, the other driver can take over, reducing the risk of accidents.
Challenges of Team Truck Driver
While team truck driving offers many benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges that drivers must be prepared to face. Here are some of the most significant challenges of team truck driving jobs:
Close Quarters
In team driving, two drivers are required to spend long periods in a confined space. This can be especially challenging if the drivers have different personalities or communication styles.
Drivers may need to adapt to each other’s habits and preferences to maintain a harmonious working relationship.
Sleep Disruptions
Since team drivers work in shifts, it can be challenging to get enough sleep. Drivers may have to sleep during the day or in noisy environments, which can affect their ability to rest properly.
The constant change in sleeping patterns can also take a toll on their physical and mental health.
Shared Responsibilities
In a team driving job, both drivers are responsible for the safety of the truck and the cargo. This means that if one driver makes a mistake or doesn’t follow safety protocols, it can affect both drivers’ careers.
It is essential that drivers have excellent communication and teamwork skills to ensure the safety of themselves and the cargo.
Personal Space
Spending weeks at a time in close quarters with another person can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
It is essential for drivers to have boundaries and respect each other’s personal space to maintain a healthy working relationship.
Incompatibility
Sometimes, even with the best of intentions, two drivers may not be compatible to work together.
Differences in work ethics, driving styles, or personalities can lead to conflicts that can affect the quality of work and overall job satisfaction.
It is important for drivers to be aware of these challenges and have strategies in place to mitigate their effects.
Good communication, time management, and self-care skills can go a long way in overcoming these challenges and enjoying a successful team truck driving career.
Requirements for Team Truck Driver
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
To be eligible for a team truck driving job, drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires passing both written and driving tests and meeting specific age and health requirements.
Driving Experience
Most trucking companies require drivers to have a minimum of two years of driving experience before working in a team driving job.
Good Driving Record
Drivers must also have a clean driving record and no history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Conclusion
Truck driving team can be a lucrative and efficient way to transport goods across long distances.
However, they also come with their own set of challenges, including close quarters, sleep disruptions, and shared responsibilities.
If you’re interested in pursuing a team truck driving career, be sure to meet the necessary requirements and prepare yourself for the demands of the job.
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