How to Back Up a Tractor Trailer (+ a Great Trucker Story)

[@jl-qk2ml]

Not a truck driver here. Just wanna say Ive seen drivers getting impatient waiting for trucks backing in. People!!! These guys get us everything we need in life, lets give them a few minutes of your day to do it safely and stress free! We all benefit!

[@laynacrossing]

4 years ago, When I worked for Swift (I went through their school to get my CDL) they didnt teach us the 45, I didnt learn how to really back until abt 6 months later when a home depot yard dog decided to take 15 minutes out of his day and teach me what no one else took the time to show me. Never had trouble backing into any hole after that.

[@Schpliffy]

This guy teaches people more in his short video than 20 hrs packages from driving schools.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thank you!

[@lynnjacob444]

You are right about CDL schools only preparing you to pass the test. I was very lucky in that my neighbor drives, and brings his rig home with him. We would go to a big empty parking lot, and he would have me set up again and again. He also taught me the ‘electric side mirror blindside trick’! (Praise the Lord!) I feel like I’m a decent backer after 5 years, but I always get out and look. I have never damaged another piece of equipment. As a lady driver, I will agree with you about NOT following someone else’s spotting (I do trust my team partner.) - I appreciate the willingness of all the fellas who want to help me, but when you get some guy wiggling around behind your rig like Elvis... I don’t tell them this, but the only reason I’m watching them is to make sure I don’t run them over! lol (Ladies, this is why they teach you to look at the space between your dual wheels on your pre-trip inspection... you’ve got to make sure Elvis isn’t still stuck in there from yesterday! 😂) I love that story about the ‘good cop,’ too. What luck!

[@LARGO125]

A quiet truck stop is your friend. When you come across one, don't take a pull thru spot, back it in. Practice makes perfect. I do that to this very day, I always try to back it in at the end of the day, you can never get enough practice.

[@goosejuice8057]

especially because someone pulling doubles might need that spot

[@aaronhartmann7658]

It's also an good ideal to look up satellite imagine of the destination. It helps on planning how you going to get in the dock.

[@CantFixStupidCanI]

I do that frequently

[@jedidiahsojourner1917]

Got a dandy union job as a "utility man" in Worcester, ma. Back in 1965. I had no idea what the job title meant but knew it was better pay than I had had before. Showed up for work to find myself being the "yard man" at a large pie bakery. My job was to fuel and check out the tractors and back trailers into the loading docks, then pull them back out, put them in line outside, then back in another empty. After two years I went to road work. What a wonderful experience to set me up everafter!

[@DavidEspinoza-we9fy]

I just completed training with Wilson Logistics in Missouri. I was in a truck,first day. After 1 week on the training pad,i drive locally with a trainer for 10 days. Actual work driving. Went back to the pad,practiced 2 more days,then tested. This outfit gives plenty of actual driving.

[@MLB08]

The person who disliked was the four wheeler parked in the corner

[@SmartTrucking]

Or some SUPER TRUCKER. Dave

[@KozmikEl7]

Absolutely! What idiot's would thumb down this information. 😤

[@bleedinggumsroberts3579]

Haha yes

[@jonnymac8925]

It's the 63 guys that did a 90 degree and hit something lol

[@adventuresandvacations4947]

The use of toys to teach is more valuable than many other videos on backing

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks! I tried filming it with my truck and trailer but I just wasn't happy with the camera angles! Dave

[@amonducius]

A tip for newbies and old truckers alike: if your trailer has manual (hand valve) air suspension, dump your trailer air bags BEFORE you touch whatever it is you are backing up against. You risk damaging your trailer, and many docks have bumper pads, so dumping your air bags while the trailer is against the building destroys and removes them, and this makes the owners/managers of places livid. A side story: I got a job working at a trucking warehouse while I was in driving school. I learned how to pass the test at school, and I learned how to be a trucker at work. It blows my mind how much they don't teach you in these schools. You'd think living in BC that they would show you how to chain-up, but many schools (including mine) skip this. Luckily some of the truckers at work were able to show me before I got a crash course of the shoulder of a snowy hill in the middle of a blizzard. I was never shown how to fuel a truck properly (I was filling only one side for a my first couple refuels haha), and not once did we go through a scale. I did learn how to do a good pre-trip and how to pass that test, so they did their job, but there is so much more to this industry that people need to learn before they hit the pavement with their full license.

[@SmartTrucking]

Completely agree! Thanks for writing in! Dave

[@timengland3649]

I love your story! I had the same thing happen to me in Manhatten ,NY @ the Jacob Javitts Convention Center. I couldn't make the turn and was stuck. The COP told me to make the turn or he would site me for blocking traffic. I told him if I complete my turn I would take out at least three cars on the right side. He said f$$k em. They knew they shouldn't have parked there. I made the turn and drug three cars down the street. I stopped and got out and three tow trucks were lined up behind me to tow them away. That was my first trip as a rookie driver to NYC and I never feared going there again!

[@thorntonwhite3813]

Tim England lmao my good old city yea they even park on the crosswalks Brooklyn ny is worst didnit for 16 years local

[@thedillpickle100]

This made me smile. 😁 When I was 12 and it was a beautiful spring day my Dad was busy doing yardwork. My chores were done so I wanted to go fishing. Problem was our little aluminum fishing boat was on it's trailer in the backyard. Dad said if I wanted to go so bad to put the "damn" thing in myself. I had helped get it ready several times with Dad so that was no problem. I had hitched up to the utility trailer many times to our yard tractor. Never had backed a trailer in my life. Got to the community boat ramp a figured out real quick this was going to require thought. After heading for the weeds a couple times it occurred to me that if I'm backing up I should steer in reverse too. 💡 Paddled the boat to our slip and went home. After lunch Dad said he'd help me put the boat in. After he got through yelling Mom reminded him that if I couldn't wait to do it myself. Dad got an odd look and said "If you can put it in yourself you don't need me to go with you.", then added "Don't make me come looking for you, be back before dark.".

[@lecrampierre1421]

THANK YOU!!!!!! I paid 5 grand for school , you taught me more for free!!!!

[@TheRoadhammer379]

Learned 20 yrs ago from my uncle, no trucking school, rode with him for 2 months learning flatbed and driving. I had my B license at 19 but tri axle log trucks weren't anything like a tractor trailer. You sound like my uncle and grandpa, both excellent truckers. Thanks for the video.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thank you sir!

[@790-u5c]

I started playing American Truck Simulator a couple weeks ago and I gotta say i have a newfound appreciation for what truckers do. Might be time for a career change!

[@thomasborger6548]

I've been driving as long as this gent and I gotta say that he has it figured out and his videos are well worth watching.

[@panda_trucker]

I watched this video two years ago before I got my cdl. I didn't understand much about what you were saying. Now I've been in the captain seat for two years. I just watched this again and it was a great info. When I went to truck school, all they taught was the sight side 90°. Apparently that's what the D.O.T. wants

[@SmartTrucking]

That's another whole problem unto itself. The DOT wants less than what's truly needed in a good driver.

[@BlindBatG34]

As a stupid four wheeler who can't even be trusted with a utility trailer, I really enjoyed this video. I'm always in awe of the professionals who seem to be able to magically put a trailer down an alley or tight spot only inches wider than the trailer.

[@2danandrews]

Been driving for 2 years now. I've surprised myself every week of it. Every day i come close to property damage of some kind, because that's how i have to think about it. Every day i save many 4wheelers lives by not driving like everyone else in heavy traffic. I appreciate your appreciation for what we do. Just remember we leave room in front of us for a reason 😉

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks for watching! Dave

[@Oregon-airguns]

2danandrews yeah, your like the guardian of the road! OMG SO COOL

[@fabricatorgeneralcaz534]

Supreme Renegade I doubt he thinks of himself that way, but at least he can spell. 😂🤨

[@jovanygallardo2703]

This guy is right, a lot of book work not enough time behind the wheel . Currently going school . I 1,000 percent agree to this guy !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@davidrigoni8231]

Thanks for the pointers:-) reminded me off a time years ago got to a shipper or receiver early evening, looked at the employees parking area, and thought "oh boy this is going to be a mess in the morning time to back in now.

[@dennisaustin6058]

I seen a trucker once delivering gas to a service station and normally he like you said parks on the street and gets out and looked to see if the way was clear to back the truck into the caps to the underground tank, and some genius had the path blocking the path, after he uttered a few choice words he got in the truck and backed up to make the pumps accessible to 4 wheelers, he got out of his truck and went behind the service station I thought he went to the washroom. Here is his genius he backed up a little further and turned in the service station road and pull in and went behind the service station and out to the underground tank caps, I was thinking he must have had to get in a few tight spots. He could have waited for the guy but he kept his cool and found another was in!!

[@yhwhswarrior6086]

Backing from a 90 is how they school's teach. I did not know about the 45 until another truck driver showed me.

[@Wendy-zl8kv]

Zeth Truthless yes the 90 I’m in CDL school now and I have a good bit of trouble with it. I know I’ll get it but man!!! It’s hard for me

[@Katmandu2]

FYI, for the CDL TEST for the 90 degree alley backing, you only MUST start at the 90 degree setup point. You absolutely CAN go and do a re-setup from ANY position you desire. You must be still in the 70 foot (IIRC) front curb (or cone simulated) zone while backing.

[@barbarasakatos3150]

You can also drive real close to the parked trailers docked, you look at your mirror and crank that wheel to the right and when you see your spot again turn the wheel to the left. Perfect setup. Worked every time for me. That is also when you have the room. Takes practice but you will get it. Time in grade is all, then comes the confidence you worked so hard to attain and then you are proud of yourself. Rightfully so. Kudos all.

[@joerangel611]

@@barbarasakatos3150 Perfect explanation!!! thank You

[@IamCaleum]

I always 45 back with my yard jockey truck, I never understood 90. I also used to practice blindside parking every chance I got just to get a practiced feel for it. One thing I did do with a friend of mine who teams was to have the 2nd driver use a drone over the area and i fashioned a clip for the phone so he could hang it onto the mirror and be able to see everything you would normally see AND and overhead view. I used the drone with him a few times just so he could see where his trailer actually was and how it moved. Many times when you are backing it feels like you are going to have the blind side corner hit the far truck when in actuality the rear of the trailer past the tandems is turning driverside every 2 inches for every 1 inch backing and you were never going to hit the truck. Nothing beats pure experience, but having an extra view and being able to see what you are doing from an extra angle, can make those first few attempts so much easier and make the driver far more comfortable and less likely to make a rookie mistake because they are stressed.

[@spandex7055]

Found the only decent cop in Montreal because if he was French you would still be there. Great video!

[@SmartTrucking]

And in handcuffs! Actually, I've met a few good cops there!

[@satcomglobal1451]

I learned how to shunt trailers over 20 years ago with single and tandom axel city tractors and then highway tractors. Now im in an actual shunt truck for the past 2 years and it's easy as hell compaired to what I learn with. Good side, blind side, 45 and 90 degree are all important menouvers to learn. If you don't know where you are or are unsure of the distance you have, STOP. GET OUT AND LOOK. I think all new drivers should learn how to shunt pups, 40', 48' and 53' with tandom and tri-axel before they get on the road. Now I'm working for a trailer repair company where I have to back trailers into inside service bays for the mechanics. Our bays have about 6" of clearance on both side mirrors and you have to jack-knife the trailer to turn it around in the front lot to back it into 1 of the bays. Here there is almost no margin for error.

[@joelucho119]

There is a big issue with CDL class A test , I don’t know about other states but here in NJ they only allow 2 get out and look for your parking maneuvers. A NEW GUY THAT CAN BARELY MOVE THE TRUCK AND KNOWS a little more than nothing about parking or how the truck and trailer reacts to movement. They expect the guy to park it in one shoot or getting out and look only twice. The good driver is not the one who parks faster, the good driver is the one who parks without hitting anything.

[@chasewilliam1902]

Yeah the reason behind that though is to demonstrate that the truck driver has skill. A "NEW GUY THAT CAN BARELY MOVE THE TRUCK AND KNOWS a little more than nothing about parking or how the truck and trailer reacts to movement," shouldn't be able to pass the cdl test and hit the public streets. That"s how people get killed.

[@2danandrews]

Same with FL, we also could only pull forward twice before loosing points. Ridiculous in real life. A 3 week crash course and studying like mad to pass written tests, and only a couple of hours total behind the wheel for manuvers and road driving. Full classes too, there were 35 in mine ended with about 20. The classes that came in on both of the 2 weeks after had more. Stressful as hell

[@johnnyphillips4406]

You should only get out and look as many times as you need.

[@SmartTrucking]

Completely agree with you! Had another guy write in and tell me about that 2 pull up rule as well. What a stupid rule. New Jersey would be better off spending their time on cleaning up that state rather than wasting time and money coming up with stupid rules like that. Dave

[@jimdango123456]

Thats how it is in the south as well nd prob most places. This is stupid nd definitely sends the wrong message. In the rule world, get your butt out as many times as you need to. Hitting someone is way more embarrassing then taking your time. As for the 90, back as close to the hole as you can, then pull up and do a straight back. For the parallels, back ur tandems a few feet behind the cones then do an offset back. Aim your tandems for the back line going between the cones. Once ur about a foot from the line jack the trailer. When ur trailer is in the spot just pull up nd straighten it.

[@GP-Stonyman]

Great illustration of how to back up a trailer. Again it get out as often as needed to check

[@IRO_SportsOfficial]

It's unfortunate that schools are teaching the 90. The 45 is what I learned by watching a Mexican trucker at Walmart distribution. He got it and it looked so smooth. Hole in 1 and he didn't even have to pull forward. Anyways I like your channel. You're a great teacher.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks Jason! Dave

[@marcoz2470]

I ve been driving for 5 years. I never went to school. I learned working at a shop and getting tips from veteran people drivers. I would back our trailers into the shop for the 2 years working there. I have never been an accident, or have gotten tickets.. (I’m knocking on wood as I type).

[@kk6aw]

I don’t think of my self as a truck driver but after I retired as a Fire Captain I drove a flatbed for a local scrapyard as well as a truck and trailer both with roll offs took 80 k or less scrap metal to a Berkeley Ca foundry, I also used the flatbed to pick up the metal from 3 drum gates from millerton dam. Had to take an empty trailer drop it at the dam, then back onto the dam and pick up a loaded trailer pull it off the dam and drop it then hook up the empty trailer back it onto the dam and drop it, then pull off the dam and hook up the loaded trailer again and haul it to the yard. The width of the dam was about 15 feet. I had only been driving a few months when I got the dam job 😃 none of the other drivers wanted it. I found that when backing, grab the bottom of the steering wheel and push the wheel in the direction you wanted the trailer to go work like a charm. I only drove about 6 years then said to heck with it.

[@finetuner53402]

Yes I had a old timer told me about grabing the bottom of the wheel. Don't even have to think about it.

[@raylz19]

When I bought my first travel trailer I was worried that I would look like an idiot when backing up. I was told to grab the bottom of the steering wheel and move to the direction that I wanted the trailer to go. Best advice ever and I always give big rigs the right of way.

[@CostaneFTW1]

Dave, I completely agree with the whole CDL school. I paid 10,000$ for a course that was 3 months long, teaching us different trailers, trucks, mechanics and loading of oversize and all sorts of flatbed loads. But once I passed my test, my instructor, named Dan, who had been driving for 30+ years looked over at me and said "Okay, now I'm going to teach you how to actually drive a truck." and he took me out and taught me how to float gears, how to dock properly, and other small tricks. Their job is to teach you how to pass the test, but some of the instructors do care about the students.

[@MrXmannymanx]

10,000 bucks?! Damn i though 2,000 was a lot. Obviously you did it in payments right?

[@SmartTrucking]

Good to hear! Dave

[@CostaneFTW1]

@@MrXmannymanx Nope, I saved up all my pennies. Working on cars on the weekends and working as a landscaper during the week. Paid it all out at once.

[@CostaneFTW1]

@@MrXmannymanx The course was well worth the price though. I'm entering my third year driving, no accidents and pulling 70k on the deck every day!

[@markm0000]

Oof man I got mine for under $700 bucks. Nobody should be paying more than $2000 for CDL school.

[@jasonharden2732]

Man you're preaching the truth @ the 47 second mark. I made my class A cdl and have 0 confidence in ability to drive a tractor trailer. The problem at my school was too many students and not enough trucks. That meant very little seat time but the instructors were good guys

[@jeffreyes1568]

Your never too old to learn. I dont care how long you've been behind the wheel . Idle speed is how I approach it. I trip out on guys who just floor it as they're backing. Great vid!

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks, and you're right, you're never too old to learn! Dave

[@tyson4739]

Same here. Also by the time you get to the door, not slamming into the dock is key. It's happened a time or two by mistake on my part and it's painful

[@newkirk7591]

Your so right about the cdl schools. This is goong back about 23yrs ago, but they would put 3-4 students per truck on the road with the instructor for 1 week. If i remember correctly, i would get behind the wheel for 90 minutes each day for 5 days. In addition, This was the final week before you took the exam so there wasnt another opportunity to practice out on the road.

[@j-man6001]

A four-year university could not explain that nowhere near as perfectly as you did sir! AND THAT'S THE PROBLEM, THEY HAVE NO EXPERIENCE, THANK YOU!

[@complexdevice]

Your comments about CDL schools are spot on. Currently attending one. Very little seat time. 2 weeks classroom 2 weeks "driving". Most of our driving is practicing maneuvers (straight line, offset, and alley dock) with single axle daycabs and 28ft trailers. Very little real world driving.

[@SmartTrucking]

That's not good! Point that out to them!

[@GeraldFranks]

4 wheelers can be absolutely stupid. And you're absolutely right about spotters. At least half the time they'll say "cut hard to the left," for example and you don't know if they mean turn the steering wheel that way or move the truck that way, and if they are facing you is it your left or their left? Since I'm a rookie, I appreciate the help, and although I am certain I can improve, I have my way of doing things Somehow I have developed a good sense of where my truck and trailer are in space. I G.O.A.L. often. My spidey sense will make me stop, and when I look I find I'm less than 6" from hitting something . So far it's kept me from countless near misses. I may take a while to get my angles right, but I won't hit anything. I have grown accustomed to being cussed out (although most drivers are nice, polite, and patient), and it doesn't phase me like it did my first few months driving. My attitude is basically, "if you don't like how long I'm taking, get here before me!”😂 😂 😂

[@pamirbadakhshan9934]

My first deliveries were in downtown Chicago zone, that was nightmare for the new operator especially in the day time, in the rush time, I had to stop cars on the both side of the road just to back up a dock. After that I had second delivery it was a small farm at night, went to they guy, he told me what door, I backed up to the door and was sitting/waiting in the truck for unloading then I hear knock on my door, they guy came outside and told me that I didn’t open my doors)) you are right, you have to spend time behind the steering wheel to learn , more you drive the better you get. Although, sometime super truckers get too confident and crash too ) indeed, I never understood why people park their cars near trucks zone, that’s why I like night time loadings and unloadings when streets are relatively empty.

[@TheTruelakersfan]

They all say there’s no shame. But then you have truckers rushing you and giving you looks and then storm by when you’re finally in the whole. And then you have the other half just looking and waiting for you to hit something.

[@Khalis55555]

Everybody tries - Hell with others - Brother do your best. As only God is perfect. I have spoken to Truck Drivers driving more than 35 years still they say they say, they are not perfect. Life is a learning experience and keeps going till you live.

[@perjrgensen8280]

Great video.. :) Greetings from Denmark, Northern Europe, the old Viking country.

[@sirjohndoeofpa3292]

I was taught by my Dad and Grandfather. They both drove for their entire lives. Made good living, made us proud, and I have all of the respect in the world for them. I am a third generation truck driver, my son is 4th. I taught my son 9 years ago and he never looked back.

[@nwmgnoe316]

And how much damage has he caused ?..... by not looking back .

[@MrShuntking]

Scrolled through some of the comments and noticed a lot of new drivers mentioning problems with backing. Tips. 1. If you have the room use it. Don't try and force the truck using 20 feet of room when you have 50...use the 50 if you have to 2. Get out and look even if you need to jump out 40 times, do it. 3. When you latch your doors to the trailer. Put the door handle on top of the chain, it helps prevent the door from coming off the pin and flying open. 4. Being a new driver, chances are your going to end up working for the first year for a larger company. If they have their own warehouse with yard trucks. Volunteer to do yard work and get some experience backing up. Even tho a yard truck is a bit different being a single axle you still lock down the basics of backing if that is a weak spot for ya.

[@ElizabethF2222]

Dave, you are absolutely right! It's all in the setup!! The most important point in backing. Thank you!!!

[@matthewthomas7648]

The driving school I went to we had to do serpentine backing among other styles and positions of backing. It was 3 weeks long. 1 week of class and the other with seat time.

[@robertl.fallin7062]

Texaslady, i laughed me butt off when a young lady did a blind side into a last open spot at a Pile Up Truck Stop on I 95 N of Nyc. First shot in and while i did a lookout for she did not need me! She got out and thanked me and said she had a stressfull day. First trip thru the Bronx and having to blindside!! lol.

[@mmtruckingllc657]

Absolutely correct, set up, set up, set up.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thank you! Dave

[@DrPhibesxx7]

I 2nd that emotion!

[@fastvinny6281]

I have my first road test fir a job on Monday in Whitby Ontario. Great vid thnx

[@ogenmatic]

Damned straight about spotters. I’ve seen so many guys get enthusiastically waved right into buildings & other vehicles.

[@romanstepanov6666]

Thanks from Ukraine, for a great lesson, mate Roman

[@JuanRodriguez-xl6mp]

been driving for 2 years now and i still struggle with backing up. thank u for this upload

[@tylerbonser7686]

Been driving for about the same time. Some days I back in just perfect other days I think how am I still so bad at this.

[@Oregon-airguns]

Juan Rodriguez guess what!? I’ve been driving for YEARS and I also struggle with it at times.. just because you’re a teacher, doesn’t mean you’re good at math. Some people got it, and some don’t... including me.. HOWEVER!!! that doesn’t mean you and I are stupid.. that just means we will trust our instincts and do whatever it takes too finish our day with a damage free truck and trailer. Hell, there were times when I was younger, that I clocked off for “lunch” because I new, it was going to take at least 15-20 mins to get the bitch back up in the hole at certain places.. the bad asses will honk and yell.. if your lucky, they will jump in and back it for you while you eat your lunch. Just be sure to tell them, if they wreck, idk who you are and I’m calling the cops for vehicle theft.. lol they drop the super trucker attitude pretty quit lol nothing destroys someone’s confidence like going back to prison haha

[@XxXGlZMOXxX]

Do other truck drivers help you ?

[@iblockpuncheswithmyface1490]

I've been driving for 20 years, and still struggle with backing up at times. Did a delivery a couple weeks ago. Was supposed to back into a bay that I thought was impossible. One of the employees there was an ex long time trucker. He told me how to do it, and it worked. I was humbled. Doesn't matter how long you've been driving. You don't know everything. You're always learning.

[@barbarasakatos3150]

Each situation is different when backing. You will get it all. 👍👍👍👍

[@vanser3004]

You are so right!I always do it 45°!! Unless there is very tight hole them I try to put it straight as close as I can to 0° (no angle) so can see both mirrors no to hit both sides. Also when its tight and you can't put it straight, good thing is to slide trailer tandem all the way back so there less hanging leverage part (end of trailer) that has big chance to hit traile on sides, and do it with less angle as can

[@_singh1997_]

I started trucking 7 months ago and love taking every piece of education from you sir big respect from Ohio U.S. **backing is fun 😂

[@1234niall]

New guy here, only been on the road 3 months, some of the places I go to have yards that were designed for trucks with short/urban trailers, been a few times where I refused to go into the yard and unloaded in the parking lot. If it looks dodgy I don't try, cuz everyone loves it when the new guy screws up.

[@vendingdudes]

Appreciate the tips about scanning the area. Other things to calculate: looking at the striped lines. Are they there? Do they line up with the pads around the door? Look at other trailers in doors. Are their wheels "on the line" to be centered or just inside the line? Or two inches inside the line? And do you have have duals or super singles with a narrower track? Adjust accordingly. Makes a big difference in centering the trailer perfectly to get in straight so the dock plate will land in the trailer. Also look at the dock itself. Does it have those big metal door crunching bumper stops sticking out on either side? Are they painted so you can see them? Are they scratched or bent? Then you know this is gonna be a tight fit. You must be accurate or you're gonna have damage. Another reason to scan is to check for a chock in your tire path. And pallet wood with nails! If it's nighttime and the lighting sucks get out and look right then before you turn out for your 45 setup. And if the stripes are worn out, covered in dust, mud or snow, put some kind of marker to help identify the "end of the line". A glove, a bag of trash, a flashlight, anything to help visualize if needed. I use one of those roadside hazard strobe lights; keep two handy in the door pocket so I can hop out quickly and assist my backing with lights. They work great! This is lot of visual input and judging to do when you think about, so go slow! Even stop for a moment if you need. There are no cash awards for zipping into a tight spot at a crowded shipper.

[@williamashby586]

I was reading the comments below, and I thought of something that is a real help, when backing. Most new drivers cut too short, when they should be coming in on a deeper angle closer to the truck on the passenger side. If you know all else is clear, you can visualize a straight line going from the front of the truck that you can see to the one on the passenger side, and then you will know if you have not passed that line yet, there’s not a chance that you can hit that vehicle, provided their noses are lined up evenly. If there is enough room, after you have backed close to that imaginary line, you can pull forward, and straighten up a little better, and you may not have to get out at all. If anything is tight, I say like this good man, get out as many times as you need. Deepness can always be corrected more easily, then always trying to cut it too close to the truck or trailer, that you can see. If you are always carrying the same trailer, put a camera back there. As this man said, there is nothing worse, then hearing a crash sound, and losing at least a couple hours out of your day to deal with all of it. When I drove for a mom and pop company, it came out of my check, until all of it was paid back.

[@SmartTrucking]

Good methodology William! Thanks for this!

[@christopherb.fields3437]

Even though I’m a younger driver I was extremely lucky to be able to learn from my Grandpa and my pops. Grandpa drove for 40 years and my pops drove for 27. Learned a lot from them two, but I can still learn a lot more; learning more and more everyday. Can never stop learning. Love the old trucker stories and love the videos Dave! 👍🏻🚛💨

[@SmartTrucking]

Thank you Christopher! Dave

[@comment2009]

A few thoughts on spotters. First, anyone twirling their hand as if they were in the driver's seat is not a spotter. I kindly thank them and proceed on my own, getting out as needed. I had one person twirling their hand, finger pointing down trying to show me which way to turn the wheel. I got out of my box truck and asked him why he wanted me to lower a crane's hook, then taught him proper hand signals. Second, only use designated spotters. I've parked in ridiculous places parking TV grip trucks. Mind you it was not a 53', just a 26' box. But the principle of spotting is the same. Too often many co-workers would want to help. Suddenly one is getting conflicting directions. Take charge. Designate the spotters and make sure they understand proper hand signals. My best spotter was a former airline ramp agent. Nailed the tricky parking every time.

[@gord2358]

Excellent advice; get out and check. I've checked four or five times sometimes but I'm pleased to say I've never hit another trailer when backing.

[@larslinell1681]

That is one hell of a storyteller, and a teacher too...I just love him

[@begley09]

Just started as a yard jockey and you're right, backing up is definitely the hardest part. First day of doing it and it only got worse as the day went on. My first couple of times backing into a hole, just by fluke I jack knifed it in with no corrections.

[@SmartTrucking]

Practice will make perfect!

[@tomhoffer9734]

Having fun playing with you're toy trucks I see, making Jake brake noises next like I do?! Good video, I will be showing this to the newbie I'm training, but, I do show them how to back from a 45 a 90 and blind side. We do a lot of city deliveries and cars, dumpsters, and everything else gets in the way. Nothing like blind siding around a car with a 48 to deliver a dock that's a half block down an alley just big enough for a truck!!! Keep the shiny side up!

[@arielspalter7425]

KZbin recommended me this video and I watched it all the way through, and I have nothing to with trucking...good story telling right there.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks Ariel!

[@teamsters2824]

Learned from my father in law Pete . Miss him man still cry till this day while driving haha

[@aaronmelson2887]

When I started with JB hunt, the orientation instructor told us that one of their drivers was at a receiver and noticed a box sitting in the middle of the dock he was suppose to back into. The driver thought that box was empty. He didn't get out and check to make sure. He started to back and ran over the box thinking it was empty and backed up to the dock. Afterwards, he got out his truck, walked towards the back and looked at that box he ran over. There was a homeless guy inside who was obviously killed when his tires ran over and crushed the guy. I have no idea what happened to that driver because they never told us, but always check to make sure the area you are backing into is clear.

[@jamesjenkins4872]

Thanks us new drivers need all the help and knowledge we can get thanks alot for all your video's

[@SmartTrucking]

Glad to help!

[@SenorBolsa]

The school i went to gave us lots of seat time, it was geared towards just getting our licenses but i went to a company that put me in a truck with a 20yr vet for 2 months thats where i learned the most. Everyday i use what he taught me and its never done me wrong.

[@dannyman5609]

Nice ... cuz I definatley know what he's talking about wam bam thank u mam now gimme my license so I can mske.some cash... say what school did u attend I'm in Tampa fl... am changing my restaurant job into truck driving I'm 32 just eating up what people are talking about from experience first...

[@KR4Qep]

less than one minute into this video and this guy points out one of the biggest truths. truck driving schools teach you how to pass a test. youll go out with your lead driver needing to learn from him. fortunately i learned fast and didn't need any instruction on how to back, but was taught different methods how to back like a u turn into a straight back and setting up for a 45, things the school didn't teach i'd say i was at school for 12 hours, and got less than 20 minutes of seat time. every day.

[@SmartTrucking]

Yup, and that's a huge problem as I see it! You and I both know that some people never do develop the feel for how to drive these things. I think a good school should spend enough time with it's students to determine who should and should not get a license.

[@Castle_Bravo.]

Tax payers paid for my cdl training. It was worth their money, I learned things that I wouldn’t have learned in a regular cdl school that I would have had to pay for it myself(more like my parents at the time). Was trained in a 18speed Peterbilt, learned how to operate water truck and dumb truck as well, did a lot of backing and driving with different types of trailers from low boy, dry van, tank and flatbed.

[@deweygoodner1464]

YOUR A GREAT TEACHER AND A GREAT MAN YOUR LOVE FOR TRUCKING SHOWS ON YOU I THINK YOU TEACH THE YOUNGER GENERATION MORE THAN SCHOOLS OR COMPANIES KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK YOU AND YOUR WIFE GOD BLESS YOU

[@markpearce7750]

The CDL schools need you for an instructor.

[@julianram03]

Thank you very very much for sharing your trucking experience. God Bless you and keep you safe may he make his face to shine upon you and give you peace. Keep posting for us beginners

[@2danandrews]

Did some reefers based out of Norfolk NE, delivering to mom and pop stores. I was fresh out of my company 6week training with instructor, and had about 4 weeks by myself. I really learned a lot about backing in to all those crazy places that looked like they really didn't plan for full size sleeper cabs.

[@SmartTrucking]

Best way to learn though, right? Dave

[@alexthandayutham791]

Thanks your Great Explanation for Back up TRACTOR TRAILER!!!

[@SmartTrucking]

Glad it was helpful!

[@reforger839]

Wholeheartedly agree with your school observations. We started at 6:00 AM in class and wouldn’t get behind the wheel until after lunch the first week... (We were learning the pre-trip). The second week we would start getting seat time at 9:30 AM for backing practice. Again, from 6:00 until 9:30 we were in class. Week 3 you had your backing test (provided you passed your Air brakes and pre-trip) By this time you started to get more road time. 9:00 AM if you passed everything but the road test you were on the road. Week 4 you got tested either Monday or Tuesday and if you passed everyday after that until graduation on Friday you were driving. You had to drive one hour at night, and quitting time everyday was 4:00 PM. Honestly the backing was a much tougher test than the road test. I struggled with the parallel park but got the rig in and passed. Halfway thru the road test I knew I passed. Backing by far is the toughest part in my opinion. Instructors need another week for perfection work and need to ease up on the student and let the student refine his/her skills once the test has been passed. The Parallel park should be removed from the test IMO... replace it with the dock..., Just some observations...,

[@SmartTrucking]

Really good observations! Believe it or not, parallel parking is quite easy once you get the hang of it and I agree that there should be a larger focus on backing. Many new drivers end up driving nights because the senior guys want the day work, so maybe there should be more of that. Overall, the more seat time you get the more your driving will improve. It bothers me how very little seat time there is.

[@glenwhatley7366]

I'm an aircraft mechanic who's had to deal with spotting for a lot of heavy equipment around aircraft. I always tell the driver that when they get close I will put both my hands up like a goal post and as they get closer I will bring my hands closer together. So when they see my hands together like I'm praying they should not be moving, and they know to stop. I have been using this since I was a ramprat at an airport as a teenager and have even seen this same technique used by the military.

[@maximilianohuezo6292]

I’m currently learning from my Father, I got my permit and he took me with him for 2 months and I leaned on the wheel. But like you said for the test here in NJ I had to pay for 16 hours of class and 4 tries at the test, which is what I’m doing now. There teaching me the things I need to pass but how to actually do the work or how to park in some sketchy situations my dad has taught me that. Thank you dad

[@wsehwail2371]

Sir : I have to rise up the hat for you I just finished the trucking training school , I never heard about 45 degrees , in your 10 minutes video I learned more than the 6 weeks trucking school. Very informative video Thank you so much ❤️

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks!

[@polkadotalien1]

Hey man I just wanted to say thank you. I’m jumping on with my trainer tomorrow morning. It’s taken me a few months to get it done start to finish from learning to school to getting my first job. I want to thank you, all your advice has really helped me out I talk to other guys and they can’t believe I’m green because I know so much 60% ive learned from you. You’ve helped make a safe smart driver I guarantee it.

[@rickross199]

I couldn't agree more! I loaded and jockeyed tankers with tallow for 15 years where I used to work. I didn't have a cdl so I wasn't allowed to leave the parking lot. Absolutely no training whatsoever I had to learn how to back up and maneuver tankers on my own. After awhile I was pretty confident I could get a tanker about anywhere. I just finished cdl "school" I won't mention any names lol. After that school was done "training" me I couldn't back up anything lmao! I finally said everyone just shut the hell up and get away from me with your backing "techniques" so I can use my own brain and experience to simply put the damn thing in the hole lol. Almost $6,000 cash to go to this school and you had to already have your permit that isn't included in the training. They did get me to pass the cdl class A road test with no restrictions on the first try. As far as being a good safe driver I learned more driving tankers around a parking lot.

[@brianjonker510]

I volunteer all the time to be a spotter but rarely a director. The difference is as a spotter I let them drive and only intervene when things are headed to a crunch.

[@livingthedream7761]

I've had my CDL license many years. The most stressful part of trucking is backing, when you have master that ....you have master trucking.

[@johnniewelbornjr.8940]

Good vid and certainly great points. Getting to watch your vids a wee bit late but timeless information, all the same. If this helps even one person rethink their approach to getting in a hole safely, then it's all worthwhile. I started off back in '93 with the old cabovers, several with set-back steer axles. I often think it's a shame that the new drivers today don't get to start off with such tractors, for they really taught one to use mirrors and a lot of the truckstops today simply weren't set up for today's hoods and overall lengths. We had it made back then in a lot of ways, even though we were cussing the older docks back in the older eastern cities that were designed for even short trucks. lol My two cents? Set-up to make a backing maneuver as easy on yourself as possible. Just as you mentioned, the less angle you have to turn, the better. I've always mentally visualized a curved line from the trailer wheels to the intended hole. ALWAYS watch both mirrors. I see drivers that never look in the passenger mirror, for example... What is something moves on that side? Someone walks out, a car pulls up, etc. Surprises tend to suck... Never blindside unless you absolutely have zero choice, espeeeeeeeecially if there's room nearby to turn around and set up for a sight-side back. Don't get overconfident, either (I usually get bitten in the posterior after smug moments, even after 27 years lol). Take your time, get out and look, and don't be afraid to ask the older drivers for advice. Yep, some are going to razz you but most of the time, it's likely to be good-natured (should be, at least). These days, I'm in an old 2007 Peterbilt 379 doing heavy-haul (oversized/overweight loads) and pick and choose carefully where I park in truckstops since I'm often far longer than the average drive-van set-up. Backing and being straight is not only something I take a bit of pride in but also a necessity when back beneath some of the loads I end up hauling. I'm always striving to learn something new, though, for if you ever stop learning, it's time to hang it up. Nice to see your vids for a lot of this knowledge doesn't get passed down these days with the lack of cb radios and old school restaurants with counters where new drivers often soaked up these little tidbits in the old days.

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks for watching Johnnie! Stay safe!

[@natecohn90]

Your videos are a great resource. The manuals and majority of resources seem to be aimed at taking a test, rather than preparing us new drivers to have a long successful career. Hat off to you sir.

[@SmartTrucking]

Our videos are aimed primarily at helping drivers.

[@richardfulmer5279]

I'm teaching my 15 year old grandson how to back then up. We have started with straight line backing. It's the first must. Get it straight and keep that way. Cornering and backing will come next.

[@stevebell4906]

JB Hunt back in maybe 95...on my road test failed and was fired on the backing... I got it centered in the slot in my two pull ups or less...But I had my window down more than two inches...and Ed Long failed me ...Not allowed to look out the window...only use the mirrors...Not only was the window open less than four inches ....No way in hell to get your head out of it...And no one ever even told me of that no open window rule... Hunt was averaging almost a truck wreck a day then...I went and got hired at CCC and earned safety awards...Local driving home almost every night maybe 1 night a month in a motel on the company...and off almost every weekend...Worked one Saturday my first year...and they put me in a brand new truck before the end of my first year....Can't guess what Hunt would have given me?

[@duaneb55]

So you're the guy that took my bumper off all those years ago. :) :) Love your videos!

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks! Sorry about the bumper! Dave

[@BobTheHatKing]

Haha are you really that guy or just messing lol

[@NWforager]

Best cop ever lol . I remember a newb but smart trucker with a major blind back putting out his triangles so no fourwheelers could pull up there while he backed in .

[@briankeithr]

Always great information. Dad put me behind the wheel at 15 yrs old. He would get out and have me put the trailer into the dock by myself.

[@inamacalin1]

yes i agree on both things you said. 1. i backup while my trailer doors are closed. it helps me and alot of people asked me why i do it that way. i told them i dont want my trailer door to scratch the next guy. 2. ignore the helpers but thank them when you done for considering it. but not all of truckers have good intention, gotta be carefull. and never trust them if they are the guys next to you. thnks dave as always good info

[@SmartTrucking]

Thank you sir! Dave

[@Steve00133]

Thank you boss man. I watch all your videos. Been driving for 6 months now And every backing I do I learn and struggle

[@SmartTrucking]

Stay safe and thanks for watching! Dave

[@heatherroseisrflyer]

That my friend, was a definate trucker story because I heard the same exact one told by my father in the '70's. The only differnce being that the two drivers were my father and uncle, in NYC 😊 Love and respect to you and your channel 💕

[@TOYOTA.Overland]

Finaly real practical guy with simple methods. The best person for teaching! Much better than virtual animation from young non-drivers. When I was teenager I sometimes observed "old wolfs" in depot, also good experience.

[@Just1Spark]

Damn! This is like a masterclass compared to 'standard curriculum' today!

[@tyson4739]

I thank you for this video. I have been driving for 7 years and not once have I been in a classroom or have had a trainer. I get my clarification through KZbin with videos like this. Backing has always been my biggest challenge. Definitely repetition helps.

[@Tadrian4084]

Nothing beats experience great class sir

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks Anthony!

[@cassiuspuckett8789]

GOAL!!! Can't stress that word enough. GET OUT AND LOOK!!!! Simple advise, I don't are how many time you use your goal, it will always save you a lot of problems. Great advice Dave. Had a similar experience in Hunts Point, New York. But the cop was standing right there and told me to run over this brand new Cadillac. And then after I did, he put a ticket on the guy's car. Cop comes over inspects the trailer tires, called the company, told them what happened. Told them to put 4 brand new tires on the trailer and send him the bill, he would insure the car owner would pay for the tires.......

[@SmartTrucking]

Nice!! Love it when it goes like that! Dave

[@DavidsonMott]

Funny thing is, I seen a Swift training video about that.

[@colmcasey1794]

Get out and look is probably the best advice I've ever heard and that's what I've always done. It's no shame to be extra careful truckers. Shame is when you wipe out someone's fender or door or worse. Old hands please don't laugh at new drivers because they just have no practical driving experience in real life situations and that's a different world from the driving school. Safe trucking y'all.

[@988nightwatch]

OMG! Rolling! I am rolling on the floor! Dave, you are a great man. Not only are your stories entertaining and comical sometimes, but truely they are of educational value. I am going to get into Trucking and you are like a teacher that gives a lesson and take away from that important! I enjoy your videos, I am subscribed to this channel and if I miss something, I can rewind, watch it again and/or take notes. We don't know it all, but those that want to learn, let those that want to teach. If you do or do not drive anymore, don't ever stop teaching those who want to know things. Your experience and knowledge is valuable. If you would be an instructor at a driving school, I would soak up everything you have to say like a sponge. Keep the britches between the ditches. :)

[@SmartTrucking]

Thanks very much!! Dave

[@hawaiianboy1743]

Sir, you are spot on....I just graduated from a CDL school last week and just like you said, it was all classroom with like 25 people and all book work. We did have range time but it wasn't enough to make each and everyone of us decent drivers and have the courage to drive. When I went to the yard, all the trucks were very beat up but still drivable(was told from management that all the trucks were purchased from auction at a good discount with a smile). There was two stages (Second phase and third phase) we all had to go through in order to pass. Each phase had two trucks for students which always broke down which limited our drive time considerably. The mechanic on duty was considerably busy. I tested out in a manual since I didn't want to drive automatics which would limit my driving experience considerably also. I expressed my frustration to management about not having enough drive time due to the number of students in training but they told me they couldn't do anything about it since it was up to upper management who brought in the students. I explained to them that I did the math on what they earn each year(25 students to fill up a classroom at $6,150.00 per head, a new class starts every Monday=9.2M a year), I then explained that they have enough money to cut back on students entering and to focus on letting more students drive and get better. They told me, it's not in their hands and in the owners hands. So pretty much, like you said in the very beginning, they are just looking to get money and push as many people through the course quickly and fill their bank account quicker....very sad!!!!! I would have loved to have been taught by an older generation how to drive a truck and how to be a trucker. Will you be my mentor...😀

[@kcgibbs]

Only hard earned experience can be the source of your awesome stories. Thanks for sharing.

[@urealdaddy88]

Excellent video. Simple is always better.