So, I know that there are a bunch of otr "VETS" out there. Those of you who have been out there for awhile. I just want you to think back to when you first started truckin'. What were the items that you HAD to have before you ventured out into the commercial superhighways of this great land. Laptops, cd players, any other items that you deemed as ensential to your off time entertainment. Sleep comfort and anything else you think would help me plan for getting into the trucking industry?

 

CB radio, microwave, fridge. After awhile I added a TV/DVD player.

 

$$$ :lol:

 

Things you need:

there is more but i'm too lazy to list everything

 

The first item on the list that nickbtubas said was a map. If you can afford the wire bound large print edition I highly recommend it. Much easier to find road on and much easier to read going down the road for those quick references.

My trainer taught me to write down my routes (I-75, US 456) and directions into the shipper or receiver on a dry erase board. The erase board sits up on the dash and is quick reference and again easy to read. You can get the small dry erase boards at Walmart along with pens and eraser. I still use my dry board as a back up to my laptop with GPS that has the routing on it. Never know when the computer might take a lunch break on me and I don't want to be stuck without back up directions.

Personally I like a nice zipped binder (Office Max) to hold my log book, ruler and pen and a copy of the long form of my last DOT physical. Keeps the log book neat and safe. I have a clip board with an interior space for my spiral 8x11 notebook that I write down all my load info, directions (for future reference if I return to the same place), BOL and payroll sheets

Power inverters...check with your company on the size allowed before you buy. Some companies limit size and it must be installed by company mechanic.

Shower shoes are a must for those not so clean shower stalls and floors. A roll of toliet paper is nice to have along also. Sun glasses, small spiral pad to write down milage when you fuel, change filters, arrive at S/C and end your day. A small plastic box behind your seat is a good place to put a pair of wire cutter (to cut seals), flashlight and other misc items needed. A padlock if your company does not suppy one.

I always carry a duffle bag and a few extra carrying bags. Never know when you might have to leave your truck (accident or breakdown) and you need to pack up things to survive a few days away from the truck or even get sent back home minus your truck.

Coffee mug, bedding, an extra pillow or two to lean up against in the bunk in the evenings. A CB is expected by a lot of places and is handy to find out why traffic is moving slow or road conditions.

Do a search on supplies. There have been numerous postings over time and there are good lists to work from off this board.

Soladad

 

Some things that don't get mentioned often;

1.) Extra toilet paper.

2.) foam ear plugs; when you are rolling as a team, they can reduce the noise. If you are shut down, they will allow you to sleep if your trainer snores.

3. A good pair if binoculars; nothing high dollar needed here, but they will come in quite handy at times.

 

Alot of the items posted are good things to have, but just don't get to carried away with stocking your truck. Having to switch over to a new truck in 100 degree Dallas heat has taught me to pack lighter. LOL

You need baby wipes!! They not only can help you keep clean when a shower is not possible, but they can be used to clean your truck too!! Never hit the road without them!

 

Excellent Point!!! 8)

 

isopropyl alcohol
hand-held vac cleaner

 

U need to know to stay out of the center and hammer lanes.....until u can handle them,,,K :-) an don't waste your time on a big radio... buy a 29 and tune it...!!!!