Are you thinking about becoming a dump truck driver?
The experience of a dump truck driver makes you look more professional. It looks good on paper, and it opens the door for more opportunities of making money with a dump truck your way.
At the same time, dump truck driving is a job opportunity for commercial drivers who want to stay closer to their homes and who want to gain more practice and experience in the trucking industry.
Dump truck drivers transport paving materials, construction supplies, dirt, garbage, and equipment to and from various construction sites.
Find below a list of steps that you need to take to become a dump truck driver.
How to become a Dump Truck Driver With No Experience
The qualifications that you need to become a dump truck driver with no prior experience include:
- A commercial driver license (CDL).
You can train for a commercial driver's license at a truck driving school. After you gain the necessary skills, you can take an exam to earn your CDL.
Check with your department of motor vehicles (DMV) for the particular rules in your state.
Depending on the dump truck you drive, you need at least a Class-B CDL and any relevant endorsements.
If you are an experienced trucker with a Class-A license and the appropriate endorsements, you are well qualified to drive a dump truck.
- The ability to undergo on-the-job training.
After that, you need to find a company where you want to work. If they potentially see you as working for them, they'll ask you to do on-the-job training with one of their experienced drivers.
- Earn your endorsements.
Endorsements are additional written knowledge tests for specific technical knowledge and competence that you take as part of the written examination. These include the following endorsements that relate to dump trucks.
- Combination vehicles
- Air brakes
- Tanker vehicles
- Hazardous materials
- Double and triple trailers
How do you get a job as a dump truck?
1. Company driver or owner operator?
- Company Driver
If you are new to the dump truck industry, you might want to drive for a company to gain experience in this field.
A steady job allows you to save money for your future dump truck and learn from the company's mistakes.
- Owner Operator
By being an owner-operator, it gives you more flexibility. You decide which jobs to take and which don't meet your financial needs.
To become a dump truck owner-operator, you need to acquire a dump truck. That is the biggest upfront investment that you need to pay.
If you are ready to become a dump truck owner-operator, you need to find work for your dump truck.
2. Purchase the dump truck
Choose a dump truck model with enough power and with a large enough bed. That will allow you to take on a variety of jobs.
Used trucks will have mechanical issues sooner than a new truck will. but new trucks cost significantly more money.
Decide what can you afford to buy. Buy a truck that has a clear title, working hydraulic equipment, and is mechanically sound.
3. Insure your dump truck
The thing is that your truck needs to be insured.
Your insurance agent will guide you in acquiring the proper amount of insurance for your dump truck business.
4. Find dump truck work
If you take the big step to become a dump truck driver, being able to find jobs is a lifeline!
To start your search, use sites that partner with multiple employers.
If you start your job search in person, it’s all about connecting with the right people.
Networking is key to finding contracts for your dump truck.
For local work, start with a drive!
Keep an eye out for construction companies in your area that might need dump truck workers.
Look for developments in your town and nearby. Find out what the company is paying for the work. Then, reach out to that company and see if they need extra trucks.
To expand your job search beyond what you find on a drive around town, start looking for construction zones. Then, find out which companies won those construction bids.
For local work, contact your local government and find out what companies have contracts.
Then, get in touch and ask if any of those companies are looking for sub-contractors.
5. Build a client base and market you business
Use your contacts from working in previous trucking companies. Connect with the local construction companies, contractors and truck companies. Spread the word out about being in the business as as a dump-truck owner-operator.
Make sure the community is aware of your services.
- Advertise in local news publications or business magazines.
- Create a website where potential customers can find you online and learn of your services.
- Augment your web presence with listings on Google My Business, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.
- Offer services for free at natural disaster sites and do the best job possible to build your reputation.
6. Learn to bid
Learn to bid.
Request quotes from local dump truck services.
Ask what they charge for different job types.
Use the obtained quotes to design your price sheet.
7. Attract new clients
Undercut competitors by 5 percent for the first contract to attract new clients. Interact with personnel at local landfills. In some cases, you will need to dump your load at a landfill.
Other jobs will require you to move material from one site to another site. Know the tipping fees and other requirements at local landfills to more effectively bid on jobs.
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