New to driving a heavy duty truck? There are some essentials that every driver should have in their cab. Here are a few must-have items to have on hand, which will make your experience much smoother.
Work Gloves
You’ll be going through a lot of work gloves, but a good pair to start with are leather cowboy gloves. Many truck drivers agree that these are the most comfy and durable for your use. They also tend to be less constricting than racing gloves.
Waterproof Clothes
As you drive cross-country, you’ll experience a wide range of weather conditions. Waterproof boots and a waterproof jacket will go a long way.
Hygiene basics
Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and body wash or soap.
Tire Pressure Gauge
You’re going to be checking the tire pressure a lot, so you better have a handy and trusty tire pressure gauge. This small tool can help you avoid a big accident caused by tire issues, so it’s very important.
First Aid Kit
Most of the time, if you’re driving for a company, there’s already a first aid kit included in the truck. However, it tends to be very basic. When you actually need a first aid kit, you’ll want one that’s fully stocked and has everything you need, so it’s a good idea to double-check.
Emergency Kit
A good emergency kit should include batteries, a flashlight, extra gloves, socks, and a hat, tin snips, bottled water, flares, duct tape, jumper cables, tarp, canned food, a windshield de-icer, a wrench, a knife, fuses, and pliers.
Dash-mounted Cell Phone Holder
When you’re driving an 18-wheeler, the last thing you should be focusing on is answering calls or checking text messages. Set up bluetooth and mount your phone on your dash to limit distractions.
High-Visibility Safety Vest
Some vendors and sites will require truck drivers to wear one. Also, if you’re working on your truck in the dark it would be smart to wear it.
Durable LED Flashlight
Truckers have dozens of uses for a flashlight, and having a very strong and durable one is important.
Healthy Snacks And Nonperishable Food
Truck drivers get a bad rep for their bad eating habits due to crazy schedules. Keep water, fruit, whole grain crackers, trail mixes, veggie chips, seeds, nuts, and dark chocolate nearby to avoid having to grab fast food as often. Healthy food will also keep you more energized.
Cleaning Supplies
Keep your cab clean! Bring a hand broom, dust pan, small handheld vacuum, cleaning wipes, and trash bags.
Expanding File Folder
To help you stay organized, use a portable file folder to keep all your paperwork, receipts, contracts, and other important documents in order.
Randy McNally Motor Carriers Road Atlas
GPS is great, but for times when you lose signal or the GPS malfunctions, having this atlas is gold. It is made especially for truck drivers, and it really comes in handy.
Emergency Bathroom Container And Toilet Paper
Lots of times you’ll be driving in the middle of nowhere, and there may be no truck stop or restroom in sight. When nature calls, you’ll be glad you heeded our advice.
Earplugs
Trucks are loud. If you’re driving as a team, earplugs can help you sleep while others drive.
Continental Truck Services technicians are always here for you. We are highly skilled and certified to quickly and effectively fix any problem and address any need. We provide the best truck repair services at the fastest possible times. We are located at 9640 SIDNEY HAYES RD, Orlando, FL 32824, United States. Call today to schedule your appointment: (407) 591-6747.
