How to Prepare for Your First Big Truck-Driving Experience

Life is full of adventures and you're about to embark on one of your biggest ones to date, as you move your family across country. You may have decided to take this all on yourself and be renting a large truck for the very first time. How should you prepare for this, so that the move is as stress-free as possible?

Different Techniques

Firstly, think about your car driving experience and multiply that several times. In other words, everything is going to take more time to unfold when you're behind the wheel of a large truck and you have to pay that much more attention. When you cross an intersection, for example, calculate the amount of time it's going to take you when assessing any traffic approaching from your side.

When driving a vehicle like this it's crucial to be as smooth as possible, to accelerate and brake gently and leave yourself a lot of extra distance when approaching a stop sign or traffic light. You have to give yourself more space on the inside when taking sharp corners, as well.

You need to be especially vigilant when you're driving on unfamiliar roads and look out for road signs that may definitely affect you as a truck driver. As an example, be wary when approaching low bridges and always bear in mind the dimensions of the vehicle. Most rental companies will give you a clear reminder of this by posting the height of the truck on a sticker that's attached to the dashboard.

Don't just assume that you can take any lane ahead of you when driving in busy urban locations. Sometimes, vehicles other than cars are restricted and you don't want to get a ticket. You may also have to stop at weighing stations along the way, as commercial vehicles often need to pull in for mandatory checks.

Sharing the Strain

Don't underestimate how difficult it is going to be to drive such a long distance by yourself. You won't be able to achieve the same type of average speed as you would if you were driving a car, so you are going to be behind the wheel for long stints. It is best to take a friend with you, or delegate some of the driving to another family member and stop periodically for some rest and relaxation.

Breaking up your Journey

Your distance may be so significant that you have to break the journey into several days. This is going to require some additional planning, so that you find a hotel that's able to accommodate the size of the vehicle you're driving. Do plenty of research online and have a look at the type of car park available. You need to be sure that you park the vehicle in an area that is relatively secure and illuminated and in an ideal world you should reverse the vehicle so that the back end is up against a wall, to deter any thieves from making off with your possessions.

Choosing Wisely

With all this on your plate it makes sense to rent your truck from a reputable organisation, so that you get a vehicle that's in good condition and will help you finish your marathon.