Is time on your side?
While we all have unique skills, different goals, and distinct responsibilities, but one thing we all have in common is time.
No matter who you are or what you do, your day is 24 hours long. What you do within that time is often the difference between being average and being excellent.
Truck drivers, just as much as anyone, need to employ time management skills to get the most from their day. Let’s look at some of the basic skills you can master to put time on your side.
Time Management Tips for Truck Drivers
Plan Your Routes Thoroughly
Taking the time to create a detailed plan for your route can save you a lot of time and reduce your stress while driving. Before you head down the highway, look at maps and plan out rest stops along the way. Do a little online research for stops that offer the best parking and the most efficient facilities so you don’t have to wait in line for an hour.
If you will be traveling through or near large cities, plan your trip so you avoid heavy rush hours like the morning and afternoon commutes. You can also look for routes that help you avoid the metro areas entirely.
Use Your GPS (But be Smart About It!)
The GPS is one of the best tools a trucker can keep in the cab. It can show you which route is the shortest, helping you make the most of every trip. Some GPS systems are even programmed to show current information on road construction projects, which can save you hundreds of hours throughout the year.
However, you need to be cautious when using GPS systems to shorten your drive. While they are great for getting you from Point A to Point B, they can lead you down roads that are restricted for large semis. Always double check your route to make sure you’re on the right track.
Make Checklists
In the current age of mobile devices, advanced applications, and connected everything, a good pre-trip checklist, written out with pen and paper, is still a useful tool. Checklists help you organize and prioritize, making you more efficient when it comes time to actually get things done.
Checklists are effective for everyone, but truck drivers will want lists that address maintenance issues, tools and safety equipment, and even loading and unloading concerns. Your checklist can also include food stops, breaks, and other necessary activities.
Plan Out Rests
If you want to save time on your route, plan out all your rests and stick to your schedule. Determine how long you want to go during the day and plan your rests so you meet these goals.
To really save time and hassle, try to get to the parking site as early as you can and wake up earlier than all the other drivers. An early departure will cut down on traffic and have you cruising to your destination while everyone else is snoozing the morning away.
At the end of the day, in the words of Harvey MacKay, “Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.” Are you using your time management skills wisely?
Quality Trucking Jobs for Excellent Truck Drivers
You deserve to work for a company that rewards your skills and experience. Visit CDLjobs.com today and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for smart, efficient truck drivers.
There are many trucking companies looking for dedicated drivers, so check out our Company profiles today!
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