how much money should you have in your pocket the first day you start etc...

by parish
(san jose ca. u.s.a.)

i was wondering if i go with a company and am going to be an over the road company driver what kind of money should i have in my pocket the first day i start before my first paycheck and a little insite on what kind of clothes to bring etc thing you should bring with you because i will be going out with a trainer for like 2 months and space is limited they said im new to trucking thanks again

Comments for how much money should you have in your pocket the first day you start etc...

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Aug 06, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
New driver.
by: Jimmy

I'll start from the day you leave the house for orientation and assume you go immediately with a trainer after orientation. Most companies buy your lunch while in orientation (3-4 days), so you need to fend for yourself for any other meals. I've been through orientations that take you to a nice buffet, and ones that have pizza/sandwiches brought in.

All companies have different cut-off dates for payroll, As in paperwork in by such and such a day to get paid by such and such a day. Since you are working/driving 7 days a week and completing your trips 7 days a week, your paperwork will be getting into payroll 7 days a week.

As an example, paperwork in by Tuesday, paid on Friday. Most payroll departments just work 5 days a week. Then you have to decide if you get a check mailed home or put on your Com-Data card to access at truck stops.

In a perfect world, you need to figure $20 per day for eats/incidentals/laundry/cigs?/ at a minimum. Plus, I highly recommend having enough cash/credit to fly home from a far away place, in case you quit or get let go 2000 miles from home.

It will be 3 weeks at least before you see your first payday. Also, most companies charge a service fee for an advance. Jimmy

Aug 06, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
Lot to pack with little room
by: Jennifer S

You will need safety equipment, steel toed boots, jeans, long sleeved shirts.

You will also need your personal hygiene items.

Sleeping bag, pillow.

Pocket cash, depends on your company. I would suggest if you do, at least a few hundred dollars. This could also help you pick up incidentals that you may need while on the road

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Ask A Trucker.