What kind of truck will I drive?


Will it be assigned to me?
If it is not "assigned" to you, that means you'll have to trade off trucks with other drivers. If it is not "assigned" it is usually a "slip seat" arrangement.

Will I have to Slip Seat?
Someone else may drive it when you’re off.


Do I take the truck and trailer home?
If you are expected to take truck and trailer home with you, do you have a place to park it? This can be tricky. Also, depending on how far you live from your home terminal, you’ll need to know if you’ll be expected to drive your personal vehicle home or if you'll be allowed to bobtail home. After putting in a 2500+ mile week, you may not like driving another 100+ miles home.

Engine size and kind?

Transmission?
If you've learned only one transmission, this may be very important to know…Rest assured, though, if you learn one transmission well, it's not nearly as hard to learn the next one. 9 speeds have been a very popular fleet transmission but Super 10's are gaining a lot of popularity.

Speed / Governed at?
Most trucks, especially those owned by a company (vs owned by an owner/operator) are governed or "cut back". This means there is a top speed that the truck's computer will allow it to go.


Sleeper style: Double bunk, Single bunk, Stand Up, Mid-Roof/Raised Roof, Flat Top

A double bunk has two beds; the top bunk folds down. These are nice for teams. A single bunk, stand up sleeper just has one bed but has a tall roof, tall enough that a person may stand up completely. A Raised Roof or Mid-Roof sleeper is something between a stand up and a flattop. A Flat Top is not one you can fully stand up in - unless you're relatively short!

Other features: Cruise Control, Jake Brake, Opti-Idle
Cruise control is usually standard. A Jake Brake is an engine/exhaust/electric retarder that assists in slowing the truck. Opti-idle is a newer option that allows a driver to set a temperature for the cab, like a thermostat, and the truck turns itself on and off to maintain that temperature. Aids in reducing idle time.

How often does company buy new trucks?


Do I have my truck serviced on the road or at the terminal?
If it’s done on the road, you’ll have extra unpaid down-time just as you will if your terminal is in another city. If your terminal is in your home town (or at least close to) the servicing can be done while you’re at home.