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Life on the road can be stressful for those just starting out in the trucking factoring business. Sure, you’ve learned how to safely haul your load and change lanes without hitting the car behind you, but where should you park at a truck stop? What can you do to keep a healthy weight from behind the wheel? How can you maintain your relationships when you’re on the road so much? For answers to these questions and more, consult our list of new driver tips.

Be Truck Stop Savvy

  • Park beside the curb whenever possible. This will protect your truck from being damaged by overtired or less knowledgeable drivers.
  • Save the heavy shopping for supermarkets. Truck stops provide plenty of opportunities for snacks, cold drinks, and emergency supplies. However, the prices are geared toward those who need a quick fix, not those shopping for the long haul. You can save plenty of money by hitting supermarkets and big box stores for your everyday needs.
  • Utilize the laundry whenever possible. Not all truck stops provide this great service; when you find one that does, make use of it. You never know when the next one will pop up.

Love and the Long Haul

  • Call home often and make the most of the conversation. Always ask how your partner’s day has been. Resist the temptation to vent about life on the road. Keep conversations focused on the relationship.
  • Make the most of your days off. The temptation to relax after a long haul is great; however, arriving home with a special surprise and plans for a date will make your home time far more special.
  • Consider taking your special someone on the road with you for a week or so. You will get some much needed time together and your significant other will gain a new respect for the work you do on a daily basis.

Stay Healthy on the Road

  • Eat a healthy diet. Try to avoid fast food conveniences and high-calorie beverages.
  • Walk whenever possible; at rest stops, during leisure time, or when waiting to unload. Walking around your truck 32 times is equivalent to one mile.
  • Bring healthy snacks from home. Having prepared food will help you to resist the temptation to snack on the unhealthy food so commonly found in convenience stores and truck stops.

Life on the road has its own set of rules. Educating yourself on trucking tips before climbing into the cab can take a lot of stress out of driving.