Profile For Alli

Hi all, Anyone know anything about Halvor Lines, Butler Transportation, or Don Hummer Trucking? I spoke with Halvor, have not yet to Butler but that is tomorrow, and am under review with Hummer and they will get back to me after that process.

I am 21, 2.5 years of local experience, looking for OTR work US only, prefer no touch reefer or dry van out of Pennsylvania. I’d like a company without driver facing cameras & that takes care of their equipment. Thanks, Alli

Are you empty or loaded? Your truck might have more power than you can "handle" at lower gears. I say this because I recently ran into a "similar" problem when I changed companies. My new truck has nearly 600hp which is a far cry from whatever barebones generic Cascadia engines I had previously. Even when fully loaded at 92k (permitted - grain truck) I have to skip lower gears when taking off. Try shifting at lower RPM. I wouldn't suggest skipping gears if you are just learning yet. Experiment with shifting around 1400rpm and see if that makes any difference.

But first, make sure your engine brake is off and you aren't accidentally keeping your foot on the accelerator when you shift. Some trucks are touchier than others. Make sure you're shifting in a steady rhythm and aren't rushing it or taking it too slowly.

High School! Got my CDL the january after I graduated class of 2016. Until I got my license I was a cashier at a bbq restaurant. I still miss the free food. Now I'm taking online classes in addition to driving to get myself an education.

HI All, I've got 2 years experience as of this week. I spent a year and 3/4 running local reefer trailer and just switched over to local grain delivery where I'm learning a lot more than I did as a reefer, especially backing. It's a lot of fun and I'm grateful for the learning experience, but in September I'll be 21 and able to pursue my goal of going over the road. Problem is, I'm pretty spoiled with my equipment and am not looking to "downgrade" much when I go OTR. I'm running KW long hoods and a t800 when it's not sitting in the shop (my poor baby has had so many problems this month), all have quite a lot of power. Is anyone aware of any companies that have long hood trucks that would take someone with 2 years local as opposed to 2 years otr? I'm looking at Honey Locust, Frock Brothers, and Smith right now because they're local but I'd like to get out of the northeast. Thanks in advance Alli

There are instructional videos on youtube that you can find, just search "CDL school backing" or something similar. This will teach you theory. Go to a truck stop and buy a toy truck and trailer. Seriously. Back that thing up, see how the trailer moves when the truck is at different angles. It won't be as "fine" as actually backing the truck and turning the wheels, but it should give you an idea.

If you know anyone that has a trailer (horse trailer, utility trailer, etc.) ask them if they can take you to a Walmart or something and have you back it up a little bit. It's going to be much different with a 53' but it's the same concept. But you aren't allowed to drive a commercial vehicle until you have your learners permit and are in school or with a company.

Don't worry, though. You'll get frustrated and maybe a little angry but that's what school is for, to help you learn. When you're in school, don't be afraid to get out and look, talk it over with yourself, and walk yourself through the process. "Where does my trailer need to go? How much room do I have to get there? How far do I need to turn my wheel?" are the questions you need to think about.

Good luck!!

It's a bear to find local work that accepts rookies with no OTR experience. But it is possible especially if you're over the age of 21!!

Depending on where you're located, look for agricultural companies. Milk truck, grain truck, etc. may hire you. (I'm 18 and have a few grain companies that may take me)

Also, construction/excavation companies might hire you. You said you have heavy equipment experience, so maybe check them out and see if there's a flatbed position to haul that equipment to & from job sites.

Check grocery stores, convenience stores, and "major" companies that have local runs / daycabs in your area.