How to Maintain Respect as a Truck Driver 

This man is got the heart of gold. The deeds you do for all of the newbies are priceless. Appreciate it sir.

Brilliant work. Thanks again! I totally understand about switching careers. I've got a PhD in English, another PhD in archaeology, and a CDL with all the fun endorsements (including school bus). Whenever academia treats me like crap, I resign and climb into my rig. When I miss the students or digging up bones, I get back to that. Just call me the schizophrenic trucker professor. 🤪

I was with ten companies and was treated like shit at each one. Was on welfare so my wife and kids could eat every day. I went through those things you described and dam near died fro pneumonia, I came down with pneumonia because I was starving. I went from 191 pounds down to 159 pounds in two months because I had no money to get food. Being treated like I was less than an animal is why I gave up trucking.!

Agreed 100%. I’m only 24 and been doing this for 3 years. As soon as I came in, I had the support of a career truck driver who taught me everything I know. He also taught me that at the end of the day, it’s about me as a driver. The first company I went otr with showed exactly what he was talking about. My boss loved my attitude and tried so hard to keep me from leaving after going through multiple screwings. I hauled non stop for this company but they kept screwing me and my pay so I left. At a local gig now and love it. If it wasn’t for him, I would of kept taking the beatings because I wouldn’t of known what else to do.

that's trucking --- work 100 hr. a week - log 70 -- and get paid for 50

My grandfather hired me to his trucking company ever since I was 16 and so far it’s been a perfect experience. Every day it’s the same easy task. Get the Great Dane, drive it to Neil’s farm(two miles down the road), wait for it to be loaded , bring it back to the yard, and then drop it off behind the 389 so he can haul it into town past all the bears. Every time I’d pull out of the yard he’d bang on the door and yell “you don’t drive for jb hunt or swift so I expect this w900 to come back in one piece.”

You are one of the best trucking coaches. 👍

We need more like him to speak out. If we can get at least most drivers to unite . We desperately need to organize someway somehow

You are so right old school!! CRengland wanted to do that to me! I went with a mom and pop co. They own about 25 trucks.they treat us great!

Unfortunately I know of a few dispatchers that were abusive to their drivers, and most if the time I stood up for myself, and they didn't like it! They made you drive in bad weather, drive over hours, give you NINE stop runs 'til you get home at 5 in the morning, and they didn't give a shit!

Mannn , you said a mouthful!!!! This past October (2019) I just reached my 40 year plateau. Everything you said is on point, 100%. We are the backbone of this country. No other industry can say that.

I got into trucking just short of a year ago and I was an EMT working in medical transport for 10 years before this. I loved being an EMT but there was no money in it. As a truck driver, no wife or kids and I can stay out as long as I want, I feel like I have gotten a big upgrade as far as pay. I wish I could have gotten into the trucking industry sooner.

Respect,that's a good one.Your just a number or driver code.

NOW days its HARD to find RESPECT anywhere,but you're right don't be pushed because they'll keep pushing I learned that yrs ago. I'm an owner operator with a small co and they try to push but it gets them nowhere.

A very good point,I'm a trucker my dad was a trucker his dad was a trucker..guess Im third generation...its sad they expect a trucker to live in poverty. Keep up the good videos...god bless.

Wow sitting here in Australia and this video has just blown my mind. Unbelievable. What the hell is going on over there.

Truck drivers deserve so much more because without them this country would not run and there is no argument to say we could get on without them

I drive for one of the big, bad mega carriers, Schneider, and I don't feel like I'm disrespected or treated like dirt. I'm always getting good miles, have a good working relationship with my driver manager (DBL for us), and I don't complain about bringing home 800-1000 week; it works for my financial situation.

Family Owner are the best. I get a high hourly rate for only barely a year of experience. They're super nice and generous with money, gifts, bonuses etc. and having your back. They're companies you can rely on and actually enjoy working for. I'm blessed to have found the company I work for. They took me when I was only 3 months OTR. Started me out at $24/hour and it's increased by a dollar and 50c sense in the last 9 months. The mega carrier I worked for at first was alright. 47 cents a mile. But they had a lot of problems and when pay period came around I was always short what I was owed. But truck drivers should be respected.

You are right. It doesn't help that trucking is considered unskilled labor as well.

Thank you!!!You need to represent all of us one Big Union with you running it!!👍👍💪💪💪

I agree. But if you cannot find a job in trucking that gets a decent paycheck for your family and respect for you, try getting trained in a trade. A trade does not need college. I spent a few years in aircraft mechanics training at East Coast Aero Tech (non-military) to get an FAA Airframe and Powerplant License. I liked the trade school. If you did pretty well in grade school (K-12), shop math is not rocket science. But I liked working indoors. So I learned how to be a machinist, programing, setting up and running CNC turning centers and millers. That was my trade for over 45 years making stuff for trucks, cars, planes, aerospace, etc. (I worked for 55 years total from paper routes, lawnmowing, dish washing, etc.). I'm retired now at age 68 with a 401K, two pensions, and an IRA. I'm not rich. But I sent two daughters to college. I own my own home. I Have two cars and other stuff. And have a loving wife for 36 years. I give God the glory for that. In a trade, you will almost always have a job. If I was laid off, I would have another job in a few weeks ( I was laid off 3 times in my lifetime). It also helps to live here in the USA that gets opportunities for those who want to reach one's potential.

Absolutely great video. I love his honesty and I always learn something from this channel. Also who the hell dislike this video this is a great man talking real information

Dave, I drove a dump bucket for Ruan, they get you right to the 2 year mark, where they invest in your 401k, cut you at the knees kick you to the curb. Cheaper to hire a new employee than to invest in a loyal drivers retirement and AMERICAS future. I seen about 50 drivers let go, and a LOT where good drivers.

I was left in Denver for 4 days at a terminal. Thankfully they allowed me to use a company van to go to Walmart, but when I didnt get paid for those 4 days, I knew it was time for me to go elsewhere. I began my search immediately and found a local job hauling hot asphalt. Havent looked back since.

You said it. I love the way you take up for drivers who seem to always get blamed for everything. I've seen this somewhere regarding elogs: This is the ONLY industry where a driver says he isn't working when he is!!! All these things have to STOP!

I was treated like the family who had to cook on the engine, I worked for the same company as them. It was bad enough that I left the industry for almost two years. Now I'm back with a small family owned company and am treated like a king comparatively. I really enjoy your videos and wisdom. Wish I had found your channel years ago. You've earned one more subscriber. Keep up the good work and keep the greasy side down!

Love yall at Smart Trucking! Thank you for for everything that you do Smart Trucking

I drove over 41 yrs and after destroying my back and having to retire I hated it I loved driving truck,but after all the changes and disrespect I'm glad to be retired I realized I miss the old days and they are gone forever, drivers don't help each other anymore only make it worse I love hearing someone else that understands I never let a company leave me sit .

I'm set to start CDL training in a couple of months, and was looking forward to the experience, though after watching this video and reading the comments, I'm apprehensive. Especially at age 57.

Excellent advice! Thanks so much for being outspoken, for the drivers in this industry!

You're correct, true and right about everything. It's refreshing to hear the Truth. Thank You.

Thank you Smart trucking,I feel better!!!

Your words are encouraging and your suggestions are genuine. I appreciate your helpful nature.God bless you.

Well said Dave! Plus we tend to forget the sad parts. Your input is appreciated!

I'm sooo glad I found you before getting into this trucking business.

If you guys don't stand together now...it's only going to get worse Stop driving for awhile and scare the shit out of these assholes.I know it's hard to skip a check,but you guys have to take back control.I don't think 6 days will do it,but do what you have to.It's at the point where somethings gotta give.Make sure it's them.

Thanks for another great video, Dave. Keep "em coming.

I could listen to this fellow all day. Even though some of the stories and advice are not compatible with us here in the UK and Europe. My mantra is "every day is a learning day"

Thank you for the advice!

I was in trucking 40 yrs also. Ltl line haul work. What a great career it was for me. Retired now, help with safety at my old company. Still like driving trucks.

Yes I agree and we are getting screwed bad by many companies

After driving for over 30 years I still get treated like I'm just a truck driver. Always kept a clean license and never had a bad cvor. It is a thankless job. Always living to work and sacrificing so much. I always said that if we all shut it down from coast to coast for one day the economy would never recover. I found a good company in Ottawa and my boss is the best one I have ever had. Because he's been there. Hes the reason that I'm still proud to be a trucker.

you are a great spokes person for the truckers . cant agree more . this stuff happens all the time

I have to say although we haven't agreed on some issues, on this one I agree 110%, and go out of my way to treat fellow drivers with dignity, respect and compassion, after all we're still human beings not animals. Well said good sir!!

I love this guy. Been driving for 18 years. I speaks the truth. Younger drivers should really listen to him.

Great advice from a veteran!! Thanks!

Nothing worse than going in and treating them respectfully, and they treat you like a stray puppy. Nice Shirt Dave. Brings back some memories. I finally figured out how to put my pic on instead of just the "B" that was there ......lol

I love your videos. I’m getting ready to jump into the industry and I’m learning as much as I can from you. I know someone who owns a small family ran company. He’s going to let me ride along before I go to school to make sure this is what I want to do.

I came into trucking from 20 years in auto repair. The first thing that stuck me was how honest & respectful truckers were. No shady crooked people, no mouthy backstabbers. Auto repair was full of convicts, addicts and bullies. Good people, us truckers.

This is one of many videos of yours that makes me proud to be one of your legion of subscribers. Please keep up the good work and I'll be looking forward to seeing you on that backhaul. 73rds to you, old buddy!

I cant believe this is free . thank you for sharing your experience with young truckers like myselft its been very helpful .respect

Much respect your way brother!!!

Thanks for the video

Thank you for what you do sir.

Thank you for all your advices.

Right on,thanks for speaking the truth.We all deserve respect and to be treated decently.I,like you,have little tolerance for those who treat others shabbily.Thanks and keep calling them like you see them.

Another great video from Dave, thank you very much.

Just wanted to thank you Dave, for all the videos you have done, concerning the new truck drivers like myself. I am currently a new hire for Stevens Transport. I don't know what to expect but I plan to work hard for a year. At the end of my first year I definitely will reevaluate my experience. I have watched many of your videos and always appreciated your sincerity and perspective on the trucking industry. Thank you!

Not a newbie. I must say... No filter. This guy reminds me of my instructor in school. No matter race, color, creed..... Real info. Real lessons. Humble and up front. Much appreciated!!!! Well respected!!!! I came in knowing my worth!!! Closed mouths don't get fed. #PERIOD!!! Takes time. Keeps your scores low. Plan well. Drive smart. Stay safe!!!

Amazing video! Much love, big hugs and respect, from Dallas Texas!😎💖⚽💓

Appreciate the advice, thanks!

Good advice. Thanks

I always stand behind that motto... "RESPECT Is Everything" ! Thank you for an awesome and, informative video sir.

thank you..learning a lot from you sir..

Smart man, we have about the same years experience. And have a lot of the same thoughts and experiences.

You made some very interesting points in all your videos

"You have to understand, that's the way it is." That is a good sign that it is time to start looking.

I understand the pay need to be better. I mean for crying out loud if your away from your family and the house for any period of time you figured they'll pay you very well. Well I was wrong on that 800 to 900 week paychecks to be away from your family not worth it, crap you can make the same or more running local and be home everyday.

Love the stories you tell.

I work for Schneider and I cam tell you there is no way that they would want you to wait for a trailer to be loaded for 3 days. Now a days its different. They will pull you off of the load and send you somewhere else. Yeah you might have to bobtail a hundred miles or so depending (we get paid for bobtail miles) but they won't keep you there for 3 days. In fact why they didn't at least leave and come back is beyond me. That's crazy.

What also got to me about the Michael Boeglin incident in the ghetto with ThyssenKrupp in Detroit was that, when they commented on the incident, they worded it "while it is a tragedy that he was killed, we also have to remind drivers that there is no parking on site."

VERY well said sir!!!

Great video !

Love this guy!

You're right about Schneider 100% I drove for them in 97 back when they had 1.5 million mile cabovers with 55mph speed restriction. I was lucky to get out in six months because I didn't have contract with them. And still they marked me as (quit under a load) when we dropped off the truck in there LA terminal when they brought us home with my team partner, after a month and a half being on the road. Don't wanna remember all the BS I was put through with those guys. But again you start from the bottom and work your way up. THAT WAS THE VERY BOTTOM now that I look back. All you Schneider drivers, as an owner operator I feel for you. Be safe out there, take care of yourself and stay motivated. Remember, nothing will change until you change. ✌️😎

You get respect when you show respect!

Thanks for saying I tell people the reason I like driving cuz I have had older driver help me when I was down. I try to return the favor when I can. I hate seeing drivers treated that way. Cuz I was one of them had other drivers help out.

Thank You!

God bless you if we had more people like you. America would be great again.

I have gained so much priceless guidance and advice for almost any and all situations I could experience, I am a new driver, I was able to be matched up with a small Carrier, I found out I will be making more as a new driver than my counter parts experienced drivers working for Mega Carriers, I am blessed for this opportunity, thanks Dave for this Channel, it is helping us greatly!

I met so many great drivers when o worked at the Cleveland market regular drivers

Well done and said

I've been out of the trucking industry for 16 years I was in it for 15 years and that was the number one thing is the respect or lack of from mainly your receivers ship shippers to but receivers and specially at Food warehouses absolutely absolutely disgusted with that part of the transaction part so congratulations congratulations on not being in the the field anymore and congratulations on 40 years of service and thank you

Well said brother.

Great podcast and great info. Great asset to all truck drivers.. Been driving trucks for almost 10 years and recently I had to walk out of a company because the owner wanted me to bow down to a dispatcher instead of switching the dispatcher as requested... that was what I did I do not suggest you do the same you make your decision

You gave another great presentation Dave

I agree totally with you. I sure wish you could be spokes person for all us truckers. Keep putting out your good videos, Dave.

That's really good advice

Very wise words David . I just got out of a big corporate carrier and I can relate to some of the things you said from seeing the things that have been going on around this business. These guys mean business and that's it.. you can just be replaced by another and possibly for even less pay..That's how they see it

Thank u sir I enjoy watching your videos n everything u said is so true 👍

I enjoy your videos, and am learning alot as a rookie.. Thank you, keep on, keeping on..!

You sir are the voice of an entire industry. Trucking needs more people like you. I'm not a trucker nor do i plan to be. However i understand everything I eat,wear,watch,listen to and so much more came to me because of truckers and a truck. If more people didnt take this service for granted I think drivers would be treated much more fairly. Keep it up sir.

No one need winds to be an angel and that Gentleman is the living proof!!! Sir may the Lord bless you and all your family for stand up for truckers,especially the new ones!!!

Thank you

Well said Dave!

Amen. Love the video

Dave,you have a good heart,you have 40 years,I have 30....it would be a privilege to run a business with a man like yourself....You feel the Same I do

I'm with you my brother

TRUTH##### THANKS!