Profile For Haze Gray

Hey guys and gals! I am fast approaching my first full year OTR and was wondering if any of you have any advise regarding a company change. I have been working for a mid size carrier for the last six months after starting with the big orange. I am not unhappy here, but their CSA is horrible (I never get a bypass). I was inspected last week (level 2) and passed no problem because I am thorough. But the inspector told me my company had a 99 out of 100! I'm always loaded heavy (which isn't that big of a deal), but they run a lot of loads that I wouldn't say is ideal (I'm only about 5% drop and hook too). I get along fine with my FM and we joke around a lot, but I just feel like I could make more money with less worries at a smaller carrier. Any suggestions? I'm open and won't get offended easily so fire away! I appreciate any advice.

I use a French press for coffee and make my own in the truck using the hot water spigot at the coffee area in the truck stops (it's free) for water. The press requires no electricity. The press cost me $17 and a can or bag of good coffee (I don't compromise on coffee ) costs me about $8 but lasts me over two weeks. I just use the sugar and creamers at the TS's as well so no money spent there. I use a small electric skillet ($24) which will cook or steam virtually everything from hot dogs to chicken fried rice. I have an inverter which will be needed to run your 110v appliances. If you have an inverter, a dorm sized fridge is a must to preserve food and save on ice for coolers. If not, try to utilize free ice opportunities (at your terminal's drivers lounges, etc.). Ice costs add up quick in a cooler, so the fridge is worth its weight in gold. Water is always free at most truck stops so I just fill up one of those huge fountain cups at every fill-up and overnight stays. Showers are easily accessible and free with your fuel rewards cards. Most truckers never need to pay for showers. Laundry will always be cheaper at home, so pack enough to last you to your next home time. I use dark colored work pants/cargo shorts mostly because of durability and work shirts to allow me to wear them two days in a row ( not the underwear or socks, got to change those daily lol). I am a dry van hauler, but I wouldn't do this if you are flatbed, etc. because you'll never be able to make them work for more than a day.

Good luck!

PTL allows any rider from day one above 7 years of age as long as they are immediate family. You just have to give the company a request form and a copy of their photo ID (for DOT document).

The fact that you are concerned about your performance shows your desire to be a professional. Our industry needs more of you. Too many new drivers out there could care less if they do the job safe and professionally.

Keep calm and stay focused on the professionalism and safety and you'll be a pro in no time.

Don't let the old dogs fool you, I've seen (and been) many experienced drivers look like they're backing a bull into a China shop. 😁

I feel the safest anywhere but Chicago, S Florida, Cali anywhere along the coast, NYC and NJ. And Laredo, nobody is safe in Laredo, but that's for a whole different reason brother! 😁