The number of truck driving jobs is growing, and the demand for experienced truckers is increasing. With the potential for good pay and the chance to see new places, it's easy to see why many are drawn to trucking. However, the rewards also bring challenges for those in committed relationships or with children.
Here are a few tips to help you navigate this journey successfully and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Finding the Right Position for Your Needs
Picking the right driving job is important for balancing your family life with your life as a truck driver.
Form a Driving Team with Your Spouse
In cases where you do not have children, some couples choose to work as a long distance truck driving team. If this is not feasible for your particular situation, keep in mind that communication is key to a successful relationship, so you should schedule time daily to talk to your spouse.
Consider Local Driving Positions
One option for truckers with families is to seek out local driving positions that keep you close to home. Securing these types of positions can be difficult, because they are highly sought-after by many skilled truck drivers. In addition, these positions can require working just as many long hours as over-the-road drivers, so the trade-off for being at home every evening may not be worth it in the long run.
Consider Over-the-Road Positions
On the other hand, most over-the-road drivers spend several weeks on the road, and then get to enjoy at least a week or longer at home with their families. It is important to carefully weigh your options between local and over-the-road opportunities to determine what is best.
Staying Connected with Family
Staying in touch with your family while on the road is key to a good work-life balance.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Thanks to smartphones, and text and video messaging, you can always be connected to your spouse and children, even while away for several weeks at a time. You could even explore truck interior accessories, like a webcam, so your kids can see you and talk to you on speaker phone or through an earpiece.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Establish a routine for regular check-ins with your family. Use apps to share your location and estimated time of arrival to keep your loved ones informed.
Working with Family-Friendly Employers
Choosing an employer that supports trucker family life can make your career and personal life better.
Choose a Company That Welcomes Truck Drivers’ Family Life
Another option is to look for careers with “family-friendly” carriers. Some carriers offer the option to bring your spouse and/or children along with you on the road for occasional trips together.
Look for Employers with Flexible Scheduling
Seek out carriers that offer flexible scheduling to allow more time at home. Some companies may have options for shorter routes or specific schedules that align better with family needs.
Consider the Benefits and Support Offered
Look for companies that offer additional benefits and support for families, such as health insurance, child care support, or family leave options.
Stay Comfortable on the Road with Suburban Seating & Safety
Being a truck driver with a family can be challenging, but it's manageable with the right support. Comfort is crucial when you're spending long hours on the road. At Suburban Seating & Safety, we offer a variety of high-quality replacement truck seats designed to keep you comfortable and focused.
Ensure a smoother ride and better well-being with our top-notch seating solutions so you can arrive home safe and relaxed. Call us at 1-844-727-7328 today to learn more.
