I am a new driver and am about to go on the road with my mentor for 6 weeks. My question is what all do I need to pack

1. How often does one stop to do laundry? ( How many days do I pack for)

2. What kind of winter gear do I need? ( Coveralls, warm coat, gloves, boots)

any advise would be appreciated, .....

 

Lets see, what to pack... a handgun, a bottle of scotch, a years worth of playboy back issues... wait scratch that.


If you are going out with a trainer, they will want you to pack lite (most companies want to see you carry one bag with you.) Remember, there isn't much storage space in a truck, and your trainer already has all of his stuff on board. Bring about a weeks worth of close, shoes, shower shoes, an alarm clock.

As for winter gear, normally a good heavy jacket and a pair of boots will do you. Always have a pair of gloves handy (actually two, one for cold weather, one for fueling.) That should take care of things. Unless you are running flatbed, then you may well want a pair of coveralls. Flatbedders spend a lot more time out in the weather

 

I am in week 3 of my training and one thing I notice is that I carry too much stuff! Space is limited in the cab and the driver (trainer) may or may not give you storage room.

I would pack for one week's worth of clothing (plus one extra set just in case) Bring extra underware and socks. So, I would pack two pair of jeans, 7 shirts, 10 pr socks and underware, one or two sweaters or light jackets, toiletries, one bath towel, laundry bag. It may be too early for the overalls and cold weather stuff but remember you can layer sweaters/sweatshirts to get more warmth. (Besides the cabs are heated and your time outside is limited) Make sure you bring a heavy duty pair of gloves to fuel etc. A flashlight is nice, but your trainer probably has one so you could get away without one. A sleeping bag and pillow should just about do ya.

Most trainers will try to get somewhere for laundry every week or so. Don't worry about bringing things to do during your "spare" time.....you won't have any during training. You will either be driving, observing or sleeping.

Good Luck (I am sure others will add to and even change my list!)

 

Well, seeing that you said you are going out with your "Mentor" I would assume you are going with Swift. If this is the case I believe they give you a list of what to bring and what not to bring. If not, then just call your company and they will be able to tell you.

 

Yes ...as I suspected I was about to bring to much stuff....

and Yes it is with Swift....They told me to pack enough for 2 weeks.....I can't get that all in one bag...

Thanks all

 

I'd say just get a big ole duffle bag and pack every bit of clothing you can fit into it. Everything else will be provided for you. Also bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and jacket. Once you get into your own truck you can deck it out however you see fit, but for training your "Mentor" should have everthing covered. BOL!

 

:shock: that's sarcasm right...everything covered..yep ...I have been waiting for two days now and they haven't found a mentor for me yet...they seem to be havin trouble in this area....or at least at the KC terminal.

 

Just curiouse.... where is your mentor out of?

 

shyykatt

I am based at KC MO Edwardsville.....I havin't got a mentor yet...still waiting

 

silly me... if I would have paid a bit more attention I would have seen what you wrote above!-sorry; 'MY BLONDE'