Trucking is an in-demand job with many benefits, but finding a position without previous experience may intimidate aspiring drivers . Thankfully, the trucking industry presents many opportunities for beginners to get started.
Here are some tips for getting a trucking job with no experience:
1. Research the Trucking Industry
Before you can even begin your hunt for a trucking job with no experience, you must research the industry. Knowing the typical rules, regulations, and pay scale of this career field can help you understand what kinds of jobs are available and what you will need to know to apply for them. Additionally, researching the industry can give you an idea of whether or not you would enjoy working in trucking and make a career out of it.
2. Reach Out to Trucking Companies
When searching for a trucking job as an inexperienced driver, it may be helpful to reach out to trucking companies directly and ask about any openings for entry-level positions. Submit your resume and apply to every job opportunity you can. Many trucking companies also offer training programs that help those with zero experience get up to speed quickly.
3. Leverage Your Contacts
It’s not unusual for drivers to get jobs through personal contacts – so if you know any drivers already in the industry, be sure to reach out to them. Most people in the trucking industry are willing to help newbies, so don’t hesitate to ask for any advice or contacts that might help you in your job search.
4. Be Honest About Your Experience
When applying for a trucking job without driving experience, you must be honest about your lack of time behind the wheel. You don’t want to mislead potential employers and put yourself at risk of being misrepresented. It’s also important to let employers know what experience you do have that could transfer to a truck driving job, such as driving-related work experience like being a delivery driver or even a professional driver for ride-hail companies.
Choose The Right Truck Driving School
Before you start your search for a job in the trucking industry, you need to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) at an accredited institution. Phoenix Truck Driving School can help you pursue a career as a professional truck driver by providing high-quality CDL training. Our nationally-recognized truck driver training teaches students everything they need to know to become successful as a driver, from basic road skills to pre and post-trip inspections. We also offer job placement assistance to make it easier for you to get started in the industry.