Off To ROEHL I Go!!!

Congrats. I am starting on the 19th in Appleton for the Reefer division.

What did you get for a truck?

Good job Chris, and congrats.

Thanks for this thread. As others have said, us newbies and prospective truckers appreciate all the info.

Good luck.

Thanks guys!!! Inthe740 they gave me a 2017 International (manual) which I prefer. What was weird is that when I got done doing my otr training (phase 2) we have to take another driving test and they tested me on an automatic, I told the tester dont mind me if I'm stopping the floor trying to find the clutch and reaching for the shifter that isn't there lol. And I'm glad I could shed some light on roehl. I just got home and earned 5 days home since being out on the road and going to enjoy every bit of it. It feels so weird driving my truck now Haha it is also a manual and I'm double clutching it.... anyways can't wait to get back out and earn some more money.

Great to read that things are going well for you. Enjoy those days off and rest up. The freight will still be here once you return.

Not sure where to ask this, but how hard is that physical test when you arrive? Roehl is on my short list, but I've spent the better part of 15 years behind a desk 12-14 hours a day so my upper body strength isnt the greatest. I know I can get in and out of trailers, raise and lower the dollies, ect because I would have to shag trailers occasionally. But if they have something crazy like lifting 100+ pounds above your head I'm kind of out of luck on that. 50 I can do, but things like steel tarps and whatnot would be a struggle for me.

how hard is that physical test when you arrive?

You will be fine. We're not professional athletes. Physical testing requirements are different for flatbed, and since you aren't going to be a flatbedder you get the easier route. If it makes you feel any better we've had several women come through here who were very anxious about the physical testing requirements at Roehl, and then after they showed up at Roehl they posted on here that their fears were wasted anxiety. It turned out it was really nothing difficult. They were all psyched up for no reason.

If you can walk across a truck stop parking lot and safely climb into the cab of a truck, you're doing better than some of the guys I observed this morning at the Pilot near Niota, TN.

Also I remember one of the Roehl trainees told us how the gentleman doing the testing was actually coaching them and telling them how and what to do so they would pass. They want you to pass just as much as you yourself want it. It's just not that tough. Far more difficulties will be encountered by trying to actually be successful out here managing your own truck.

Sorry for the late reply.. as Old School said it's not hard at all. But being a flatbedder is a totally different breed, it's alot of physical work and having to deal with weather changes. Lumber tarps can weigh up too 100lbs but I love the physical aspect of the job and getting dirty (it's not for everyone) so far I'm loving it. Best of luck to ya.

They also pay you $500/week (first check will be on your 3rd week on Thursday) it may be less or more for you depending on where you're located. The training was great! If you have any more questions I'll be glad to help.

So I've seen that you dont get a check until the 3rd week. My question is does that check include all weeks up to that 3rd week?

Hey Chris how're things going on the road for you? Has it been difficult for you and family to adjust?

I really enjoy your diary. I hope to be at Roehl in June of next year...gotta lot to get done between now and then to get ready for my new career. Hope you keep posting. Good luck.