Seems I may have to pivot my channel a little bit, thanks for all the support and thank you to all the truckers showing love to the video. If there's anything you guys would recommend me making a video about just let me know and I'll see about getting it done.
As a trucker, how about you doing a video on the Department ot Transportation? (DOT?) I believe these guys get a bad wrap out here as well. I remember those old rattle traps of old, and how they help bring them into compliance. I believe that would be a good subject.
Would you be willing to listen to someone who's been in the industry since 1971? What you said is partly true but, the main reason is the fact 1out of every 4 trucks in us is operated by foreigners. They are coherst by our own gob'mt to come here given subsidizes and grants that owner ops can't compete with and big companies either hire them or go belly up. They have no comprehension of American culture or even care. American trucking has been subsidized just like the American farmer by the very conglomerates we have unwittingly elected since before we became a 2 party system.
@johnweymouth5685 I don't think there's anyone better to listen to, the responses I've gotten in the comments have taught me a lot more than you can get from anyone but you guys.
We appreciate this video and the music and the work that went into it Brother....what we did as truck drivers was work and long hours...and days and weeks away from home...but we had a brotherhood out on the road...we would help each other out...and help the motorists when we could...pulling in to get a meal and coffee , and tease the waitresses( especially the good lookin ones..!)...great memories...stay safe and truck em easy brothers...🇺🇸
Dot regualtions, each state sitting laws, jb hunt, swift, visas, forighmers getting tax payet money to buy there own trucks. Equity firms. Its sad to see what it has become..but goverment & money...equals downfall
The biggest thing that happened to the trucking industry? In the late 70s early 80s when many factories closed, the government offered to pay for these displaced people to go to schools to learn how to drive truck. This is when truck driving went from being a respectable occupation to an alternative,hence the down hill slide of the reputation of being a trucker. Now we have people who drive these big trucks who can't even speak English and don't care to. So the majority of people in the seats are steering wheel holders, because to me,they haven't a damn clue what a true truckdriver is. I can say this with 40+ years behind the wheel and grew up around real truckdrivers all my life
Also, they have so many foreign drivers that can’t speak English not supposed to be in a truck wear sandals not the required shoes that are worn in some of them wear towels on their head. It has really changed.
The goat in the bunk along with the cook,co-pilot,navigator and the guy that actually has the one license that he paid for from the bangladesh truck school
I learned hauling Blue Gem coal in a 75’ DM800 Mack in the SE Ky mountains, nothing beat watching my uncle drive that truck. It was like art in motion, smooth and never scratched a gear RIP uncle Charlie I’ll always miss you.
Been running 32 years and learned from the older guys before me. Never went to school for driving, just hands on training from the old guys that taught me how to feel your truck and load as your driving. Talked to a man from DMV that said they would rather go on a road test with someone who learned from real drivers instead of some driving school clowns.
I'm 75. I've been driving for over 30 years. My body has had it driving a truck takes a toll on your body and I do respect a lot of drivers who are still driving at my age but God bless them all. They are the backbone of this country. Just take care of yourselves. God bless you all
I drove for 41 years and loved it up till the last few years. The government regulations and the crap you have to put up with out on the road .Drivers don't respect each other like they used to and seems like everyone is short tempered and have no patience .The pay isn't what it should be companies dont appreciate what you do and only care for their bottom line and the drivers take the brunt of their problems. The good ole days are gone and will never return. There are to many drivers that cant read or speak English and they will do the job for nothing and are not safe drivers Im retired now and although i loved it im glad im not out there anymore but i appreciate the ones who do it every day and know what its like out there
Did 45 years on the road. You are absolutely right .We were paid a mere fraction of what we were worth,needing a special licence & medical certificate ,were responsible for everything including the lives of the motoring public around us ,etc. Road expenses took a big % ,our lives were often in danger,[lost too many fellow drivers over the years ] We were under appreciated as drivers .Normal 40 hour week guys had evenings,wkends off .We were expected to go round the clock in Canada before logbooks were in place,even then we were expected to break the rules because it always had to be there in the morning regardless of the distance,. As much as liked driving I am glad to be retired now .
I have been trucking over 50 years and trucking has changed so much. Drivers used to help each other but not anymore of once in a while you might find some one who will help you but not often I am 75 now and still driving but I plan on retiring soon I will miss it
I just retired after about 51 years and miss it already. Turning 75 next month but my old 2004 Freightliner was still running good but with the freight rate the way it is just not worth it anymore .That old Freightliner looks sad setting on that yard for sale. Nobody wants either one of us now.
I started driving as an international trucker in 1984, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, Yugoslavia, Poland, Russia, Spain, Great Britain, Denmark, in the 80s and 90s they still respected the driver and his truck. This decreased as more and more Eastern European countries joined the EEC. Drivers without proper training who were underpaid by their bosses and sometimes spent months away from home. Accidents, robberies, theft of big rigs and cargo, this is what the world of drivers looks like in Europe today, we have been declared outlaws by the EEC, what should have improved only worsened. In 2019 I had a heart attack and never drove again, it used to be nostalgia, but today it is gone forever.
My Dad drove Over The Road for 47 years. He took me to his work one day, when I was very little,to pick up his paycheck. I saw those great big trucks, sitting on the ready line, sitting there running. I smelled the burnt diesel fuel,and saw the smoke from the smoke stacks, hanging in the crisp,cold morning air. At that moment, I knew that i wanted to be a Professional Over The Road Truck Driver, i was hooked!!! Of course I also saw all the trucking movies, and shows on TV. That just added fuel to my deserve to be an Over The Road Truck Driver!!! My parents use to take us on family Road trips, and I would sit up with my Dad, even though they told me to sleep, but I was trying to watch my Dad drive, and looked at all the semi trucks on the road. I'd ask my Dad and questions about driving, and he would tell me what he knew. I looked forward to going on Road trips, so I could learn what I needed to know, to be a driver. I loved listening to the old trucker raido programs,my Dad listened to when he was driving through the night!!! I always told all my friends, even when I was younger, I wanted to be a Professional Truck Driver. They all thought i was stupid, and should go to college. I didn't even care, because I knew what I wanted to do for a living!!! So in 1990 I applied for a truck driver's training school, and started my training as an Over The Road Truck Driver!!! My Dad came to visit me at the school one weekend, and the head instructor, who ran the school, asked my Dad if he taught me how to drive a semi truck. Asked him if he took me on the road, and showed me how to drive. My Dad drove for a union company, and wasn't allowed to take me with him on the truck. So he told them that he didn't teach me how to drive. They couldn't believe it, and told him that I was the best driver, who ever attended the school, and that I was a natural!!! My Dad was so proud of me, that I took after him, and followed in his footsteps!!! He and my Mom took me to the Trucking company, where I worked once, and they followed me for about 30 miles. My Mom told me that my Dad complemented my driving, and said that he could tell that I was a good driver. Once in a while, I drove them a few hundred miles, to go visit my oldest sister. He slept, while I was driving, and normally he didn't ever sleep, when someone else was driving!!! Because he trained driver's once in his career, and the trainee, wrecked the truck, almost killed both of them. So him sleeping, when I was driving, was a big compliment!!! Unfortunately he passed away in 2002 of cancer. He had over 3 million safe driving miles, with no accidents!!! I've been driving about 35 years now, and he kinda taught me the old school ways. I guess that I've been kinda chasing a gost so to speak. I've got over 3 million miles myself now, and I'm trying to drive for 50 years!!! Unfortunately I don't know if I'm going to be able to hold on for that long, because things get worse every year!!! The newer rookie driver's, just don't know what they are doing, and the old school ways have gone by the way side. Things get worse every year!!! Being an Over The Road Truck Driver, use to be a brotherhood, we would help each other out,and watch each other's backs!!!! There was a common courtesy between driver's. Unfortunately it's not like that anymore!!! It's everyone out for them self's, and the hell with everyone else!!!! Nothing but a bunch of steering wheel holder's anymore!!! I try my best to keep the old school driver's ways. Unfortunately, there's not many of us left anymore!!! A lot of us old school driver's are retiring, and with us, will die a long ,respected profession!!! Unfortunately it's going to be taken over by a bunch of foreigners,who don't have any clue, of how to be a Professional Driver!!!
You and your dad are exactly who I made this video for, you make the world a better place even though you're seldom recognized. Stay safe and thank you.
Your story brought tears, I’ve loved trucks since I knew what one was and have done some driving hauling coal during summer break 82’-85’ at 17 behind the wheel of that big Mack I was proud as a peacock and miss my uncle Charlie and cousins that taught me to drive, there will never be a time like the old days when drivers were proud and the best at what they did, thanks for the memories.
my old man was a trucker his whole life. missed alot of time with him but he supported his family and made sure to be home for holidays. I real Hero. Salute to all truckers out there!
Thank you for your recap of the industry, I started in 1972 and had to retire in 2014. After many different companies I got on with Yellow in 1984. I spent 25 years at Yellow and 5 with the YRC joke, 30 years with one company. I read some of the comments and everyone has their opinion's, and they are all correct. I miss the old days of CB radios, cowboy boots and real truck-stops like the big orange ball and T/A's. Good luck with your future videos.
Retired now. 42 years OTR. Corporate greed and stupidity ruined it. Still have my CDL with all the endorsements for another year and a couple of guys have asked me to take a load "now and then". No way I'll get out there. Thanks for the video. It's spot on in today's world.
As a 37year class 1 driver,I can honestly say that the sheer lack of respect and driver ability is all but lost. Only those of us who have maintained our ability to stay out here have survived. But the company's are clearly in it for themselves and they do not care one bit about the driver. And the money has all but dried up. Stay strong everyone 💪. God Bless You All.
My Father drove for 47 years. Got 3 Uncle's several cousins , a grand father that drove. I drove just not the big rigs. Nothing but respect for the good drivers. GOD Bless you to all the Night's of the Road.
I had to stop because of your thumbnail for the video. That truck belonged to Bill Lindsey out of Salt Lake City Utah and my dad drove that truck in the early 70's. The company name on the trailer was Trans - Alaska. Dad would haul all kinds of freight up to Fairbanks Alaska and bring back King Crab back to salt lake. It brought back a whole lot of memories.
We was raised right. I’m still wearing Double H Cowboy Boots. Jeans, and Pearly Snap Fr Western Shirts. I didn’t grow up in a damn Sand box in some God forsaken Middle East country!
Yes...im retired now....but still keepin the faith ....i get out there every great once in a while and wild cat it lol..but most of the time im 10-7 ...and enjoy working on my property..Truck em easy brothers...✌🇺🇸.
I started driving in 1977 so yeah, I’ve lived through this arrow. I’m still driving 49 years later so it’s not what it used to be disrespectful truck drivers back then somebody come up behind you. You moved over and let them go nowadays these new age drivers nobody’s out there but them is what it seems like.
I firmly believed truckers are absolutely heroes they do a job that’s absolutely essential for our society, it’s a tough long hours thankless job. While I’ve never thanked a trucker face to face, I truly appreciate every one of them. I even found a prayer *:* A Drivers Prayer! Lord guide my hands and feet as I take this rig down the road. Give me good sound judgment and understanding of other drivers on the road. Keep my load safe and secure. Help me through the days and lonely nights, that I may be your shining light. Amen! God bless truckers! I hope they get more appreciation
I was 22 in 1977 started for California on my first coast to coast trip in a 1976 352 Pete. Lots have changed but I’m still out here by the Grace of God. Keep on Truck’in.
You nailed it young man i retired after 45+ years of oversize and heavy long haul .those songs those trucks all bring back Memories .And stories ? i got lot's of those . Like knowing the real Delta dawn when she got her start . was involved in 3 movies .Heard of Space trucker ? main character based on me .Miss Madison I moved the boats for that And met the kid who was luke Sky walker as a young kid . .Was involved with one of the movies James Garner made in the 80's .and because i never let anything stop me from making my runs i was given the C.B. handle the Barbarian .
My brother and I are starting a trucking company this spring. We've got a '86 Ford with a BigCam and a '90 R-Model with a Mack 350. Gotta keep the legacy alive
I live in england your story is very true its just the same over here im 72 and worked along side trucks all my life i always knew many drivers now am retired i only know 3 and 2 are to old to change there is no respect they are being hounded all the time everyone is against they dont go on strike just like olden days they just get on with it
I used to drive my ex mad with watching convoy,even a big 10/4 was called in obeying her orders😂 Ive seen it a million times😂,love the music and some great stunts. In the UK there was a record in charts called convoy GB,it did make you laugh,but America and its trucks was where it was at,these iconic trucks and their drivers,the fabric of a generation 👍.
G’day from Australia, I am an old skool trucker from the 80’s, still going just doing local. Driving on and of the docks doing containers for a small family trucking business with over 120 years in the industry. No GPS tracker, no cameras nothing in our rigs just pure old hard work and trust. Based in Melbourne. What you said rings so true here in Australia too. 80’s and 90’s what a time to be in interstate trucking in Australia. One time heading East bound from Adelaide to Melbourne about 1989, the weighbridge was open in little old town named Keith. Back then there were 2 types of number plates issued VV & VX for Victoria. VX enabled you to carry extra 4 ton payload. We got 4 trailer through the weigh bridge for 4 other blokes back and forth because I had the VX plates & they had VV plates & running heavy. Lots of hitching & un hitching put that was the culture everyone looked out for each other & helped. Lost 2 & abit hours but didn’t matter if you had 3 log books. They were the good old days, any Aussie trucker running Melbourne to Adelaide or Perth back in the day will know what I am talking about. Great video Cheers Louis Kats 👍 🇦🇺 🇺🇸
I've driven semi trucks since 1980, married a beautiful lady, 38 years ago, raised 3 kids, all with college degrees, 2 beautiful granddaughters. We're still here. Twin sticking, go gettin', clothing and feeding families.
I love to read of success like yours. I'm 24 with two boys and a great wife. We decided to pursue owner/operator work. This spring I'll be hitting the road in a '90 Mack my dad and I have gone through and fixed up. I hope I can find my groove and fit in well. We've put alot of money on the line and I want to have something to pass down to my boys someday
@@braydenfreemanmusic3109 Watch ur pennies. They do add up. Always expect a rainy day or two, so store as much as you can away for them. Listen to your good wife, because you will need her along the way.
Absolutely amazing you nailed it and definitely earned a new sub. I'm a 30 plus years as a heavy truck mechanic and I have nothing but respect for each and every driver out there. Without you I don't have a job and I'm grateful for that. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what you have on your channel. Can't do it now I have a fleet of mixers and they gotta roll in less than an hour. I will definitely see you in the comment section again soon 👍 🇨🇦 🔧 🙏
@@nvragn That means a lot to me, youtubes been a hobby for me. I usually make gaming videos but its nice to see something I actually made because i wanted to make it get so much support. Thank you.
I miss the days of driving without GPS and cellphones. I miss stopping at truck stops, eating good food, and listening to the stories they told. Gone are the days of my youth.
Thank you for the kind words and understanding, there are a few of us old heads still at but not many, working through my 43rd year now and hoping for an even 50 years if possible (the good lord willing). Why do we stick around to this day could take weeks of psycho analysis to sort out, but Its safe to say because it’s in our blood and the thought of going to the same old place and working indoors day after day, year after year holds no interest in us. Peace brothers and sisters of the road and remember Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down!! We gone! Bye bye.
My dad has been driving truck since '93 and can drive with the best of them. During his career, he's paid for his house, kept his marriage, and raised 2 sons. He taught me respect for my fellow man and to stop and offer help to anyone who needs it. There's been some rough spots along the way, but he's kept those wheels turning, no matter what happened. And that's why his my hero of the highway. Trucking isn't my calling, but I love trucks and the people who drive them. Without them, everything would come to a halt. So remember, when you see a big rig on the road, there's a good chance that whatever you need tomorrow, that truck is hauling to the store today.
We got tired of getting constantly screwed by shippers-receivers, state and federal governments. We got tired of getting raped by truck stops ( paying $15+ for a shower!) and finally being shat on by pretty much everyone! I did 4 million miles and loved every mile of but Elogs was the final straw for me. I retired the day it went unto effect. But, trucking had already changed by then. Drivers drove around mad at the world because of the way they were treated. Yeah I loved trucking. I still cry when i listen to an old trucking song,one that reminds me of the good ole days. Trucking gets in your blood and stays there for life. Yeah the blue sky's and black tops will always haunt me but I'll never go back. Before I drove for the love of the road. Now I wouldn't wish trucking on my worse enemy 😢
The same thing is happening with logging. You don't see purpose built trucks anymore. No trucks designed to take 3 beatings and a half daily. All is is highway tractors with cheap plastic interiors.
I have worked as a forklift driver for over 35 years. I can tell you that I have seen the quality of the drivers go down. And yes the companies are bleeding the workers dry. But the lack of common sense safety just on our lot not even on the road is troublesome. So many can't even follow directions that are given to them just minutes after hearing them.
Turbin spinners and companies self issuing driver's license is the downfall. Trucking is a pride thing, end of day you provided for someone. It's a way of life and the farther we get from that the worse it gets. Big companies don't have the personality of Independents
My mum was a truck driver for a few years back in the early to mid 70s. Was a good time although I don't remember it much. Still a truck fan, build models and know former drivers from the 70s. What bothers me is the attitude some truckers have, cattle haulers think they own the road, a lot of truckers have politicized trucking so if your not maga or far right you have no business knowing what a truck is, also truckers from India(not all) have a death wish or are just poorly trained.
I been driving 64 years 61 as owner and at it. SEEN 49 STATE'S 6 WESTERN PROVINCES OF CANDA HUALING CATTLE & FLATBED & Van now hopper ag comedies. I remember every trip I thank 60 70's were the best.😊❤ it still do.thanks
In the 70s, when I was just a young boy, I was fascinated with big rigs and dreamt of being a trucker when I grew up. When I tell people that now, they say wow- you really set the bar high.
Spot on video buddy! Im a 24 year old Ohiaon. I grew up on Smokey & The Bandit. My fathers been a lowboy driver for an excavating company since i was born. They call him "FreeBird" on CB old school respectable driver. Ive spent my career thus far as a heavy truck mechanic and driver. Ive now purchased a truck of my own and will begin owner/operating in March of this year. Wish me luck and keep your eyes open for the white Mack R-Model with "Freeman Brothers Trucking"
If you got it a truck brought it, critical part of the logistics of getting our stuff, big 10-4 to all truckers for doing the job that matters 💪🏻🍺🇺🇸👍🇨🇦
I started driving big rigs in 1976. Long retired now but keep an eye on the industry. I think the corporations like Swift, Knight, etc. are what really killed trucking. Squeezing old school drivers out and bringing new inexperienced and foreign drivers that they can take advantage of. The overall quality of drivers is down too. Just look at any truck stop and see the lack of common sense and professionalism. Another thing that I really hate is go to any rest area of on/off ramps and you'll see tons of trash and piss bottles. It wasn't like that back in the day.
48 years of rollin big wheels and this guy has a real nice fantasy of truckdrivers. It’s a complex scenario, but the drivers are certainly a big part of the problem.
Same happening here in Australia I've been driving 25 years third generation trucker use to go with my dad on the weekends when I was a kid those was the glory days
The government ruined trucking , with driver monitoring devices, the government ruined trucks with there emission rules not laws rules!. I had uncles making $70,000 plus at Schneider transport and LCL carriers they made more money than almost any occupation in the country, and the government deregulated trucking, I blame the government, trucking company's are allowed to not even have to pay minimum wages thanks to the government after all it's unfair if they have to pay drivers for all there time.
It's like you said it only takes one bad egg like how many truck drivers are actually genuinely bad people I feel like it's not very many its just people wanting to do there job and go home it's the same with cops they for the most part have a bad reputation throughout media just because of a few handful of people
I have a great deal of respect for truckers and the industry, It's a damn shame how poorly they are treated and how they're viewed. I play ATS and there was a trailer mod for a custom trailer, one of the decals was "If you don't like truckers, stop buying shit" and I think it's a good decal.
Non English speaking steering wheel holders that don’t know what the trucking industry even is has ruined it all. And the LLC hijab company’s with a i trucking on the door haul loads for pennies Nice video on what it used to be
The reason guys are leaving the industry is the rules and regulations are getting stupid and the new drivers out here are a discrace to trucking ,, and no one wants to talk about it ,,, the idiots have wrecks and there solution is more rules for the drivers who are doing things right !!!!
Started in a 1980 international 9670 getting a new international lt625 with the scanaya motor with 14 speed automatic first time with automatic 35 years it’s my last truck lol
My grandpa drove for 43 years, he did local freight runs threw pa Ohio new York and jersey. Then last 15 drove for giant eagle. He was a road driver in his younger years. He died just a few years ago, he was a real man and a real trucker. He told me once, this new breed has no respect for anything and think they know everything. That's why they are backing up over people and flipping rigs down the highway and most companies suck now as well
I also was a trucker back then and used CB's, now trucking has gone to hell in a Hell in a hand basket, why the truckers any more. I enjoyed driving the big Rigs.
Deregulation killed the trucking industry. Good paying union jobs were gone. Now trucking is considered a low skill job that just doesn't pay. Six weeks OTR was all I could take.
Do you know that only three things have never been on a truck, that would be water, electricity and natural gas, everything else has at one time been on a truck!
Started as a swamped on a rig up truck 18 years old 1979 moved up to a rigup in 1981 chased rig moves all over north America always big heavy loads to many regs now
If you have driven on the interstate in the past week you have probably had at least one dangerous near miss with these clowns. The roads were way safer in the seventies and eightes when the machines didn't have special "safety" systems and half of them were smoking dope and nobody cared about log books. The speed limit was 55 which kept things cooler and we still had lots of industry and everything got done. The new technocrat world with the foreigner's mixed in is very sick and unsustainable.
Modern technology hasn’t done trucking many favors. I got to be a part of the good old days.. wildcard strikes of the 70’s etched some horrible memories and the great deregulation of the 80’s.. I’ve watched the elog come and watched the big carriers manipulate it to make it fit their narrative.. I’ve been a driver, o/op and a small fleet owner.. I’ve run 5x3’s to 6x4’s to automatic’s .. 18’s rule.., in almost 50 years of driving there are only a few things I haven’t hauled or driven… I still wear a chain drive wallet.. (might forget where I put it.., and wear boots and a nice shirt with pockets.. I’m a professional and I still take pride in my work, I’m not a politician nor a cop.. and personally, I steer clear of the topic in conversation, the high blood pressure just isn’t worth it.. I do the speed limit and stay out of the left lane.. keep the door closed and be on time. I try to keep a positive attitude and a smile on my face.. I don’t have to deal with people very often and their problems aren’t mine.. if they need to vent, let them.. pray with them and for them and keep on trucking. Trucking is a way of life.. it’s a lifestyle. They have tried to make a regular job out of trucking and it’s like oil and water. It takes commitment to get the job done no matter what it takes yet you have to know your limits and it’s up to the driver to keep it safe. Be cool on your stool.. catch ya on the flip..!!
what you say is true but not only in america also in europe road transport is ruined by the regulations of the EEC and the costs of transport more and more transport companies are closing their doors and the transport is being outsourced to cheaper countries with cheap drivers there is even a company that is established in estonia and they drive with filipino drivers who do not speak the language i myself have driven for 35 years and i recently stopped just because it is not fun anymore they say you are free that is not true you have a constant time pressure in the past we drove from the netherlands to kuwait nowadays we go further than frankfurt and the youth who want to drive a truck but not weeks away from home and a good salary transport in europe and in america is slowly ruined
Exactly right. If drivers were paid what they were worth compared to other professions & treated like other professionals [ paid meals on the road etc.] there would be lots of drivers.
Been driving since the 80’s and yessir it’s changed a lot drivers now a days have no respect for their selfs so how can they respect anybody else they drive their trucks like they drive their cars slow down be considerate it ain’t all about you
47 years last November. I remember going into shippers and receivers and have an absolutely no problem driving all over America but after 9:11 a lot of things changed after April fool's Day in 1995 when the CDL came out there were a lot of changes for that too and now with the electric log it's absolutely no fun. Having to live a life underneath the machine telling me what I can and cannot drive. So I said phooey with the interstate and so now I'm local. In the 1980s it felt like I was making good money but as the years went by it's just never gotten to be any better. And I understand truck stops in the general population . My gosh drivers you trash out parking lots to trash out the restrooms a trash out the truck stops you make a slab yourself in the buffet area it's just sickening. Where I grew up in northeastern Wisconsin there was nothing but orange and black trucks everywhere and I knew when I was a kid I want to drive one of them and I've been driving for 47 years and I knew a lot of truck drivers in the area and they were always very polite and helpful and now this. When I smack into the 50 years of driving that's when I'm going to exit if the embarrassments lack of manners from fellow drivers don't drive me out first. Because even at the shippers and receivers all your garbage ends up in the parking lot for somebody else to pick up and or they leave it there to rot
I drove over the road since 1999 till I retired . I owned my own truck. my last 6 years I had a dedicated run for Honda running car parts. before I got that run the dispatcher disrespected the drivers, Terminal manger would lie to you in a heart beat. thy would play games with the detention pay. and so on. the scale house most where OK but others would fined something wrong. I got a ticket for a marker light being out. I proved it was working I was told by the dot I'm getting a ticket for something ether except it or he will find something that cost much more..
@leewalker3514 I just retired...... 40 years six million miles....NOTHING but a LIFETIME of REGRETS,REMORSE. My children are just people that I share DNA and a LAST NAME with.The missed family events.Like the time my son moved from tee ball up to the pitching machine....he was the only one that didn't run away or throw his bat down and the first one to get a hit...... HEARD ABOUT IT BUT WASN'T THERE. No friends to speak of Just a bunch of guys that you run with only to leave them behind at the next exit or truckstop. I wish I had never seen the inside of a truck,muchless learned to drive. I would have come out better working at NAPA auto parts delivering parts for 15 dollars an hour and been home every night.
@MarshallMcCrory This hurts my heart man. I pray you find your peace, you guys deserve so much more than you were given. Know your sacrifices are far from unappreciated, and I thank you for giving so much of your time taking care of more families than you know.
Peddled for over a decade. Started in a Cabover. Trucking lost its appeal when Government ruined the Industry with its "Agenda". Laws, Regs,more Laws,and Regs. Those that still do it, 🙏 Respect.
Seems I may have to pivot my channel a little bit, thanks for all the support and thank you to all the truckers showing love to the video. If there's anything you guys would recommend me making a video about just let me know and I'll see about getting it done.
As a trucker, how about you doing a video on the Department ot Transportation? (DOT?)
I believe these guys get a bad wrap out here as well. I remember those old rattle traps of old, and how they help bring them into compliance. I believe that would be a good subject.
Would you be willing to listen to someone who's been in the industry since 1971? What you said is partly true but, the main reason is the fact 1out of every 4 trucks in us is operated by foreigners. They are coherst by our own gob'mt to come here given subsidizes and grants that owner ops can't compete with and big companies either hire them or go belly up. They have no comprehension of American culture or even care. American trucking has been subsidized just like the American farmer by the very conglomerates we have unwittingly elected since before we became a 2 party system.
@rodneypattonsr3179 I can absolutely look into that, thank you.
@johnweymouth5685 I don't think there's anyone better to listen to, the responses I've gotten in the comments have taught me a lot more than you can get from anyone but you guys.
We appreciate this video and the music and the work that went into it Brother....what we did as truck drivers was work and long hours...and days and weeks away from home...but we had a brotherhood out on the road...we would help each other out...and help the motorists when we could...pulling in to get a meal and coffee , and tease the waitresses( especially the good lookin ones..!)...great memories...stay safe and truck em easy brothers...🇺🇸
I've been driving for 35 years because of the movie convoy . Your spot on . There's a general lack of respect everywhere .
Same here! 12 years.
3rd generation here. It's not what it was when I grew up rolling with the ole man and granddad
It was moving on that did it for me Pete yes there is a lack of respect out there
Dot regualtions,
each state sitting laws,
jb hunt, swift, visas, forighmers getting tax payet money to buy there own trucks.
Equity firms.
Its sad to see what it has become..but goverment & money...equals downfall
They hate America don't trust any of them
The biggest thing that happened to the trucking industry? In the late 70s early 80s when many factories closed, the government offered to pay for these displaced people to go to schools to learn how to drive truck. This is when truck driving went from being a respectable occupation to an alternative,hence the down hill slide of the reputation of being a trucker. Now we have people who drive these big trucks who can't even speak English and don't care to. So the majority of people in the seats are steering wheel holders, because to me,they haven't a damn clue what a true truckdriver is. I can say this with 40+ years behind the wheel and grew up around real truckdrivers all my life
I would not even call most of them Sterring Wheel Holders.
yeah man we have the same issues in New Zealand unfortunately
I would also add automatic transmissions and cell phones. Any monkey can "drive" an automatic. 35 years driving semis and I miss shifting.
Also, they have so many foreign drivers that can’t speak English not supposed to be in a truck wear sandals not the required shoes that are worn in some of them wear towels on their head. It has really changed.
They have a pet goat in the sleeper to keep them company at night.
@ 😂😂👍
Yeah the Americans are being forced out of their own country.
Sadly,you are so right .
The goat in the bunk along with the cook,co-pilot,navigator and the guy that actually has the one license that he paid for from the bangladesh truck school
I started learning in 1972 when i was 16. I was taught by some of the best. They are all gone now. Im still here. Im 68 and ive seen a lot of changes.
I'm the same age. Did you start out hauling logs? I started out hauling wood chips to paper mills.
I start out hauling logs to in a coe trans star 2 with a shiny 290 with a 10
I learned hauling Blue Gem coal in a 75’ DM800 Mack in the SE Ky mountains, nothing beat watching my uncle drive that truck. It was like art in motion, smooth and never scratched a gear RIP uncle Charlie I’ll always miss you.
Been running 32 years and learned from the older guys before me. Never went to school for driving, just hands on training from the old guys that taught me how to feel your truck and load as your driving. Talked to a man from DMV that said they would rather go on a road test with someone who learned from real drivers instead of some driving school clowns.
I'm 75. I've been driving for over 30 years. My body has had it driving a truck takes a toll on your body and I do respect a lot of drivers who are still driving at my age but God bless them all. They are the backbone of this country. Just take care of yourselves. God bless you all
Retired last spring at 77 years of old. You started old, been behind the wheel since I was 25. Everything you have, a truck was involved in it.
I drove for 41 years and loved it up till the last few years. The government regulations and the crap you have to put up with out on the road .Drivers don't respect each other like they used to and seems like everyone is short tempered and have no patience .The pay isn't what it should be companies dont appreciate what you do and only care for their bottom line and the drivers take the brunt of their problems. The good ole days are gone and will never return. There are to many drivers that cant read or speak English and they will do the job for nothing and are not safe drivers
Im retired now and although i loved it im glad im not out there anymore but i appreciate the ones who do it every day and know what its like out there
No what your talking about
Did 45 years on the road. You are absolutely right .We were paid a mere fraction of what we were worth,needing a special licence & medical certificate ,were responsible for everything including the lives of the motoring public around us ,etc. Road expenses took a big % ,our lives were often in danger,[lost too many fellow drivers over the years ] We were under appreciated as drivers .Normal 40 hour week guys had evenings,wkends off .We were expected to go round the clock in Canada before logbooks were in place,even then we were expected to break the rules because it always had to be there in the morning regardless of the distance,. As much as liked driving I am glad to be retired now .
I have been trucking over 50 years and trucking has changed so much. Drivers used to help each other but not anymore of once in a while you might find some one who will help you but not often I am 75 now and still driving but I plan on retiring soon I will miss it
I just retired after about 51 years and miss it already. Turning 75 next month but my old 2004 Freightliner was still running good but with the freight rate the way it is just not worth it anymore .That old Freightliner looks sad setting on that yard for sale. Nobody wants either one of us now.
@@billloffler8637 I hate to hear this, I hope you get back out there anyways! 🙂
Dang driver, that last line makes me tear up😢@@billloffler8637
@@DannyPounders I hope you keep on trucking, if it is what makes you happy!
The cat and mouse game between dispatch and DOT destroyed the heart of the driver.
Very well put Mr Bill.
I started driving as an international trucker in 1984, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, Yugoslavia, Poland, Russia, Spain, Great Britain, Denmark, in the 80s and 90s they still respected the driver and his truck. This decreased as more and more Eastern European countries joined the EEC. Drivers without proper training who were underpaid by their bosses and sometimes spent months away from home. Accidents, robberies, theft of big rigs and cargo, this is what the world of drivers looks like in Europe today, we have been declared outlaws by the EEC, what should have improved only worsened. In 2019 I had a heart attack and never drove again, it used to be nostalgia, but today it is gone forever.
My Dad drove Over The Road for 47 years.
He took me to his work one day, when I was very little,to pick up his paycheck.
I saw those great big trucks, sitting on the ready line, sitting there running.
I smelled the burnt diesel fuel,and saw the smoke from the smoke stacks, hanging in the crisp,cold morning air.
At that moment, I knew that i wanted to be a Professional Over The Road Truck Driver, i was hooked!!!
Of course I also saw all the trucking movies, and shows on TV.
That just added fuel to my deserve to be an Over The Road Truck Driver!!!
My parents use to take us on family Road trips, and I would sit up with my Dad, even though they told me to sleep, but I was trying to watch my Dad drive, and looked at all the semi trucks on the road.
I'd ask my Dad and questions about driving, and he would tell me what he knew.
I looked forward to going on Road trips, so I could learn what I needed to know, to be a driver.
I loved listening to the old trucker raido programs,my Dad listened to when he was driving through the night!!!
I always told all my friends, even when I was younger, I wanted to be a Professional Truck Driver.
They all thought i was stupid, and should go to college.
I didn't even care, because I knew what I wanted to do for a living!!!
So in 1990 I applied for a truck driver's training school, and started my training as an Over The Road Truck Driver!!!
My Dad came to visit me at the school one weekend, and the head instructor, who ran the school, asked my Dad if he taught me how to drive a semi truck.
Asked him if he took me on the road, and showed me how to drive.
My Dad drove for a union company, and wasn't allowed to take me with him on the truck.
So he told them that he didn't teach me how to drive.
They couldn't believe it, and told him that I was the best driver, who ever attended the school, and that I was a natural!!!
My Dad was so proud of me, that I took after him, and followed in his footsteps!!!
He and my Mom took me to the Trucking company, where I worked once, and they followed me for about 30 miles.
My Mom told me that my Dad complemented my driving, and said that he could tell that I was a good driver.
Once in a while, I drove them a few hundred miles, to go visit my oldest sister.
He slept, while I was driving, and normally he didn't ever sleep, when someone else was driving!!!
Because he trained driver's once in his career, and the trainee, wrecked the truck, almost killed both of them.
So him sleeping, when I was driving, was a big compliment!!!
Unfortunately he passed away in 2002 of cancer.
He had over 3 million safe driving miles, with no accidents!!!
I've been driving about 35 years now, and he kinda taught me the old school ways.
I guess that I've been kinda chasing a gost so to speak.
I've got over 3 million miles myself now, and I'm trying to drive for 50 years!!!
Unfortunately I don't know if I'm going to be able to hold on for that long, because things get worse every year!!!
The newer rookie driver's, just don't know what they are doing, and the old school ways have gone by the way side.
Things get worse every year!!!
Being an Over The Road Truck Driver, use to be a brotherhood, we would help each other out,and watch each other's backs!!!!
There was a common courtesy between driver's.
Unfortunately it's not like that anymore!!!
It's everyone out for them self's, and the hell with everyone else!!!!
Nothing but a bunch of steering wheel holder's anymore!!!
I try my best to keep the old school driver's ways.
Unfortunately, there's not many of us left anymore!!!
A lot of us old school driver's are retiring, and with us, will die a long ,respected profession!!!
Unfortunately it's going to be taken over by a bunch of foreigners,who don't have any clue, of how to be a Professional Driver!!!
You and your dad are exactly who I made this video for, you make the world a better place even though you're seldom recognized. Stay safe and thank you.
Your story brought tears, I’ve loved trucks since I knew what one was and have done some driving hauling coal during summer break 82’-85’ at 17 behind the wheel of that big Mack I was proud as a peacock and miss my uncle Charlie and cousins that taught me to drive, there will never be a time like the old days when drivers were proud and the best at what they did, thanks for the memories.
my old man was a trucker his whole life. missed alot of time with him but he supported his family and made sure to be home for holidays. I real Hero. Salute to all truckers out there!
Thank you for your recap of the industry, I started in 1972 and had to retire in 2014. After many different companies I got on with Yellow in 1984. I spent 25 years at Yellow and 5 with the YRC joke, 30 years with one company. I read some of the comments and everyone has their opinion's, and they are all correct. I miss the old days of CB radios, cowboy boots and real truck-stops like the big orange ball and T/A's. Good luck with your future videos.
The 70,s were a great era to be trucking in. I also miss the CB.s real truckstops,etc. I still wear my cowboy boots,even to church .
Bj and the Bear got me started in trucking been doing it for 40 plus years. Thank you that was a nice tribute to the men and women of trucking.
Retired now. 42 years OTR. Corporate greed and stupidity ruined it. Still have my CDL with all the endorsements for another year and a couple of guys have asked me to take a load "now and then". No way I'll get out there. Thanks for the video. It's spot on in today's world.
From a retired owner/operator, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for this message! Far too few people get it today.
No, thank YOU.
thank you buddy for that video and make people understand we are just hanging in there.
As a 37year class 1 driver,I can honestly say that the sheer lack of respect and driver ability is all but lost. Only those of us who have maintained our ability to stay out here have survived. But the company's are clearly in it for themselves and they do not care one bit about the driver. And the money has all but dried up. Stay strong everyone 💪. God Bless You All.
My Father drove for 47 years. Got 3 Uncle's several cousins , a grand father that drove. I drove just not the big rigs. Nothing but respect for the good drivers. GOD Bless you to all the Night's of the Road.
I had to stop because of your thumbnail for the video.
That truck belonged to Bill Lindsey out of Salt Lake City Utah and my dad drove that truck in the early 70's.
The company name on the trailer was Trans - Alaska.
Dad would haul all kinds of freight up to Fairbanks Alaska and bring back King Crab back to salt lake.
It brought back a whole lot of memories.
and to boot back then we wore jeans, pearl snap shirts and boots! Not like today flip flops and shorts and or a towel wrap on their head
We was raised right. I’m still wearing Double H Cowboy Boots. Jeans, and Pearly Snap Fr Western Shirts. I didn’t grow up in a damn Sand box in some God forsaken Middle East country!
Yes...im retired now....but still keepin the faith ....i get out there every great once in a while and wild cat it lol..but most of the time im 10-7 ...and enjoy working on my property..Truck em easy brothers...✌🇺🇸.
I started driving in 1977 so yeah, I’ve lived through this arrow. I’m still driving 49 years later so it’s not what it used to be disrespectful truck drivers back then somebody come up behind you. You moved over and let them go nowadays these new age drivers nobody’s out there but them is what it seems like.
new sub here,greetings from NC,cool show man.about 30 years in a truck here and now retired.thank God.
I’m glad you liked it, stay safe and welcome to the channel! Hoping to bump the quality up and make more stuff like this in the future.
I firmly believed truckers are absolutely heroes they do a job that’s absolutely essential for our society, it’s a tough long hours thankless job. While I’ve never thanked a trucker face to face, I truly appreciate every one of them. I even found a prayer *:*
A Drivers Prayer!
Lord guide my hands and feet as I take this rig down the road.
Give me good sound judgment and understanding of other drivers on the road. Keep my load safe and secure.
Help me through the days and lonely nights, that I may be your shining light.
Amen!
God bless truckers! I hope they get more appreciation
I was 22 in 1977 started for California on my first coast to coast trip in a 1976 352 Pete. Lots have changed but I’m still out here by the Grace of God. Keep on Truck’in.
I’m glad you’re still out here, thank you.
You nailed it young man i retired after 45+ years of oversize and heavy long haul .those songs those trucks all bring back Memories .And stories ? i got lot's of those . Like knowing the real Delta dawn when she got her start . was involved in 3 movies .Heard of Space trucker ? main character based on me .Miss Madison I moved the boats for that And met the kid who was luke Sky walker as a young kid . .Was involved with one of the movies James Garner made in the 80's .and because i never let anything stop me from making my runs i was given the C.B. handle the Barbarian .
Thank you, your stories are a treasure. I'm humbled to hear you enjoyed the video.
I drove 43 years loved every day of its a true life style 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
52 years here joined knights of the highway..was a road king member for years enjoyed the round table talks great times
Makes me miss the Detroit Diesel 2 strokes. Noone drove a volvo back then.
My brother and I are starting a trucking company this spring. We've got a '86 Ford with a BigCam and a '90 R-Model with a Mack 350. Gotta keep the legacy alive
Lol..yeap volvos & flip flops blocking th fuel.island while in the shower.
I live in england your story is very true its just the same over here im 72 and worked along side trucks all my life i always knew many drivers now am retired i only know 3 and 2 are to old to change there is no respect they are being hounded all the time everyone is against they dont go on strike just like olden days they just get on with it
I used to drive my ex mad with watching convoy,even a big 10/4 was called in obeying her orders😂 Ive seen it a million times😂,love the music and some great stunts. In the UK there was a record in charts called convoy GB,it did make you laugh,but America and its trucks was where it was at,these iconic trucks and their drivers,the fabric of a generation 👍.
G’day from Australia,
I am an old skool trucker from the 80’s, still going just doing local.
Driving on and of the docks doing containers for a small family trucking business with over 120 years in the industry.
No GPS tracker, no cameras nothing in our rigs just pure old hard work and trust.
Based in Melbourne.
What you said rings so true here in Australia too.
80’s and 90’s what a time to be in interstate trucking in Australia.
One time heading East bound from Adelaide to Melbourne about 1989, the weighbridge was open in little old town named Keith.
Back then there were 2 types of number plates issued VV & VX for Victoria.
VX enabled you to carry extra 4 ton payload.
We got 4 trailer through the weigh bridge for 4 other blokes back and forth because I had the VX plates & they had VV plates & running heavy.
Lots of hitching & un hitching put that was the culture everyone looked out for each other & helped.
Lost 2 & abit hours but didn’t matter if you had 3 log books.
They were the good old days, any Aussie trucker running Melbourne to Adelaide or Perth back in the day will know what I am talking about.
Great video
Cheers
Louis Kats 👍 🇦🇺 🇺🇸
Thank you from an old 4 million mile driver.
Best Wishes from Montana! M.H.
I've driven semi trucks since 1980, married a beautiful lady, 38 years ago, raised 3 kids, all with college degrees, 2 beautiful granddaughters.
We're still here.
Twin sticking, go gettin', clothing and feeding families.
I love to read of success like yours. I'm 24 with two boys and a great wife. We decided to pursue owner/operator work. This spring I'll be hitting the road in a '90 Mack my dad and I have gone through and fixed up. I hope I can find my groove and fit in well. We've put alot of money on the line and I want to have something to pass down to my boys someday
Love to hear it, keep being a hero.
👍👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
@@braydenfreemanmusic3109
Watch ur pennies. They do add up. Always expect a rainy day or two, so store as much as you can away for them.
Listen to your good wife, because you will need her along the way.
Absolutely amazing you nailed it and definitely earned a new sub. I'm a 30 plus years as a heavy truck mechanic and I have nothing but respect for each and every driver out there. Without you I don't have a job and I'm grateful for that. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what you have on your channel. Can't do it now I have a fleet of mixers and they gotta roll in less than an hour. I will definitely see you in the comment section again soon 👍 🇨🇦 🔧 🙏
@@nvragn That means a lot to me, youtubes been a hobby for me. I usually make gaming videos but its nice to see something I actually made because i wanted to make it get so much support. Thank you.
No it was a pleasure and for just starting hey stick with it you may be on to something here my friend 👍 🇨🇦 🔧 🙏
I'm not going to lie I'm not into the gaming but anytime you put up something I will be sure to check it out. Ty for the response 👍 🇨🇦 🔧
Got my license when I was 16 had to quit when I was 69 53 years as an owner operator p many stories in many memories
very nice and honest video.
I appreciate it.
I miss the days of driving without GPS and cellphones. I miss stopping at truck stops, eating good food, and listening to the stories they told. Gone are the days of my youth.
Great video thank you 🚚
Thank you for the kind words and understanding, there are a few of us old heads still at but not many, working through my 43rd year now and hoping for an even 50 years if possible (the good lord willing). Why do we stick around to this day could take weeks of psycho analysis to sort out, but Its safe to say because it’s in our blood and the thought of going to the same old place and working indoors day after day, year after year holds no interest in us. Peace brothers and sisters of the road and remember Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down!! We gone! Bye bye.
Love to see you still out there trucking, safe travels and good luck boss.
All the old drivers retiring at a fast rate new guys just don't understand
Nutty drivers are everywhere, not matter if their vehicles be cars, buses, or trucks
My dad has been driving truck since '93 and can drive with the best of them. During his career, he's paid for his house, kept his marriage, and raised 2 sons. He taught me respect for my fellow man and to stop and offer help to anyone who needs it. There's been some rough spots along the way, but he's kept those wheels turning, no matter what happened. And that's why his my hero of the highway.
Trucking isn't my calling, but I love trucks and the people who drive them. Without them, everything would come to a halt. So remember, when you see a big rig on the road, there's a good chance that whatever you need tomorrow, that truck is hauling to the store today.
Jammin' with Red Sovine on the 8 track.⏳️
We got tired of getting constantly screwed by shippers-receivers, state and federal governments. We got tired of getting raped by truck stops ( paying $15+ for a shower!) and finally being shat on by pretty much everyone!
I did 4 million miles and loved every mile of but Elogs was the final straw for me. I retired the day it went unto effect. But, trucking had already changed by then. Drivers drove around mad at the world because of the way they were treated.
Yeah I loved trucking. I still cry when i listen to an old trucking song,one that reminds me of the good ole days. Trucking gets in your blood and stays there for life. Yeah the blue sky's and black tops will always haunt me but I'll never go back. Before I drove for the love of the road. Now I wouldn't wish trucking on my worse enemy 😢
The same thing is happening with logging. You don't see purpose built trucks anymore. No trucks designed to take 3 beatings and a half daily. All is is highway tractors with cheap plastic interiors.
Fantastic video Mate... extremely well put together, with a superb message woven within it that hits the nail on the head... Well done 👍
I appreciate your feedback, it means a lot to me.
Very well said. I'm so very glad I could retire when it was good. There is still a lot of good ones. But the best days are far behind us now
I have worked as a forklift driver for over 35 years. I can tell you that I have seen the quality of the drivers go down. And yes the companies are bleeding the workers dry. But the lack of common sense safety just on our lot not even on the road is troublesome. So many can't even follow directions that are given to them just minutes after hearing them.
I was driving second seat four some of my uncle's, they were good driver and polit and courteous. They are gone now and I am 73 and retired.
I didn't have to watch the video to answer the question. The government is why! Everything the government gets involved in turns to shit.
Awesome video man
Turbin spinners and companies self issuing driver's license is the downfall.
Trucking is a pride thing, end of day you provided for someone. It's a way of life and the farther we get from that the worse it gets. Big companies don't have the personality of Independents
4:48 People are still driving trucks but alot less truck drivers out there
Well said
My mum was a truck driver for a few years back in the early to mid 70s. Was a good time although I don't remember it much. Still a truck fan, build models and know former drivers from the 70s. What bothers me is the attitude some truckers have, cattle haulers think they own the road, a lot of truckers have politicized trucking so if your not maga or far right you have no business knowing what a truck is, also truckers from India(not all) have a death wish or are just poorly trained.
I been driving 64 years 61 as owner and at it. SEEN 49 STATE'S 6 WESTERN PROVINCES OF CANDA HUALING CATTLE & FLATBED & Van now hopper ag comedies. I remember every trip I thank 60 70's were the best.😊❤ it still do.thanks
Much respect from a truckers son
To many laws implemented to the trucking industry is what did it in for the drivers of 20 to 40 year experienced driving professionals . . .
In the 70s, when I was just a young boy, I was fascinated with big rigs and dreamt of being a trucker when I grew up. When I tell people that now, they say wow- you really set the bar high.
Spot on video buddy! Im a 24 year old Ohiaon. I grew up on Smokey & The Bandit. My fathers been a lowboy driver for an excavating company since i was born. They call him "FreeBird" on CB old school respectable driver. Ive spent my career thus far as a heavy truck mechanic and driver. Ive now purchased a truck of my own and will begin owner/operating in March of this year. Wish me luck and keep your eyes open for the white Mack R-Model with "Freeman Brothers Trucking"
Best of luck, I'll be looking
If you got it a truck brought it, critical part of the logistics of getting our stuff, big 10-4 to all truckers for doing the job that matters 💪🏻🍺🇺🇸👍🇨🇦
I started driving big rigs in 1976. Long retired now but keep an eye on the industry. I think the corporations like Swift, Knight, etc. are what really killed trucking. Squeezing old school drivers out and bringing new inexperienced and foreign drivers that they can take advantage of.
The overall quality of drivers is down too. Just look at any truck stop and see the lack of common sense and professionalism. Another thing that I really hate is go to any rest area of on/off ramps and you'll see tons of trash and piss bottles. It wasn't like that back in the day.
48 years of rollin big wheels and this guy has a real nice fantasy of truckdrivers. It’s a complex scenario, but the drivers are certainly a big part of the problem.
I appreciate the feedback, I've learned quite a bit from these comments. I'd make a few different points if I were to remake the video.
Not the drivers, their hungry scrooge mcducks employers.
He is trying to avoid painting foreign drivers in a bad light .
Same happening here in Australia I've been driving 25 years third generation trucker use to go with my dad on the weekends when I was a kid those was the glory days
Great and true video.
If you got it, a truck brought it...
The government ruined trucking , with driver monitoring devices, the government ruined trucks with there emission rules not laws rules!. I had uncles making $70,000 plus at Schneider transport and LCL carriers they made more money than almost any occupation in the country, and the government deregulated trucking, I blame the government, trucking company's are allowed to not even have to pay minimum wages thanks to the government after all it's unfair if they have to pay drivers for all there time.
It's like you said it only takes one bad egg like how many truck drivers are actually genuinely bad people I feel like it's not very many its just people wanting to do there job and go home it's the same with cops they for the most part have a bad reputation throughout media just because of a few handful of people
I have a great deal of respect for truckers and the industry, It's a damn shame how poorly they are treated and how they're viewed. I play ATS and there was a trailer mod for a custom trailer, one of the decals was "If you don't like truckers, stop buying shit" and I think it's a good decal.
Non English speaking steering wheel holders that don’t know what the trucking industry even is has ruined it all. And the LLC hijab company’s with a i trucking on the door haul loads for pennies Nice video on what it used to be
I’ve been out here 25 years this year. I remember those old school drivers and those good days.
The reason guys are leaving the industry is the rules and regulations are getting stupid and the new drivers out here are a discrace to trucking ,, and no one wants to talk about it ,,, the idiots have wrecks and there solution is more rules for the drivers who are doing things right !!!!
I’m 61. I remember when the song was released! I drive flatbed truck! I prefer to drive night into day keep to myself. LOL!
Started in a 1980 international 9670 getting a new international lt625 with the scanaya motor with 14 speed automatic first time with automatic 35 years it’s my last truck lol
My grandpa drove for 43 years, he did local freight runs threw pa Ohio new York and jersey. Then last 15 drove for giant eagle. He was a road driver in his younger years. He died just a few years ago, he was a real man and a real trucker. He told me once, this new breed has no respect for anything and think they know everything. That's why they are backing up over people and flipping rigs down the highway and most companies suck now as well
I also was a trucker back then and used CB's, now trucking has gone to hell in a Hell in a hand basket, why the truckers any more. I enjoyed driving the big Rigs.
Deregulation is what happened.
No doubt about that! It was the beginning of the long decline of trucking!
Long Haul Paul tells the stories
Deregulation killed the trucking industry. Good paying union jobs were gone. Now trucking is considered a low skill job that just doesn't pay. Six weeks OTR was all I could take.
i’m still here and still have the truck i putts around town with the truck once in a while
Do you know that only three things have never been on a truck, that would be water, electricity and natural gas, everything else has at one time been on a truck!
Enjoyed it first trips June 1976 age 19 watermelon hauler to Winn-Dixie stores God blessed retired Freight hauler 2021
Started driving in 1970 and retired in 2020
Started in 1979 hauling grain then produce 23 years on road 41 years total my back retired me lots of bad publicity
Started as a swamped on a rig up truck 18 years old 1979 moved up to a rigup in 1981 chased rig moves all over north America always big heavy loads to many regs now
My dad retired from heavy haul at 80 he's 90 now started the year before I was born
What happened? Corporate degregulation, and exploitation of new hires by big corporations.
If you have driven on the interstate in the past week you have probably had at least one dangerous near miss with these clowns. The roads were way safer in the seventies and eightes when the machines didn't have special "safety" systems and half of them were smoking dope and nobody cared about log books. The speed limit was 55 which kept things cooler and we still had lots of industry and everything got done. The new technocrat world with the foreigner's mixed in is very sick and unsustainable.
Modern technology hasn’t done trucking many favors. I got to be a part of the good old days.. wildcard strikes of the 70’s etched some horrible memories and the great deregulation of the 80’s.. I’ve watched the elog come and watched the big carriers manipulate it to make it fit their narrative.. I’ve been a driver, o/op and a small fleet owner.. I’ve run 5x3’s to 6x4’s to automatic’s .. 18’s rule.., in almost 50 years of driving there are only a few things I haven’t hauled or driven… I still wear a chain drive wallet.. (might forget where I put it.., and wear boots and a nice shirt with pockets.. I’m a professional and I still take pride in my work,
I’m not a politician nor a cop.. and personally, I steer clear of the topic in conversation, the high blood pressure just isn’t worth it..
I do the speed limit and stay out of the left lane.. keep the door closed and be on time. I try to keep a positive attitude and a smile on my face.. I don’t have to deal with people very often and their problems aren’t mine.. if they need to vent, let them.. pray with them and for them and keep on trucking.
Trucking is a way of life.. it’s a lifestyle. They have tried to make a regular job out of trucking and it’s like oil and water. It takes commitment to get the job done no matter what it takes yet you have to know your limits and it’s up to the driver to keep it safe.
Be cool on your stool.. catch ya on the flip..!!
Love to hear it, thank you. stay safe and good luck to you.
Most of them have retired or could not renew their CDL… not many Outlaws left…
@@CEOkiller Retired....
The truth, corporations killed trucking along with FMCSA and DOT regulations making it damned near impossible to make a living as a one truck entity.
what you say is true but not only in america also in europe road transport is ruined by the regulations of the EEC and the costs of transport more and more transport companies are closing their doors and the transport is being outsourced to cheaper countries with cheap drivers there is even a company that is established in estonia and they drive with filipino drivers who do not speak the language
i myself have driven for 35 years and i recently stopped just because it is not fun anymore they say you are free that is not true you have a constant time pressure in the past we drove from the netherlands to kuwait nowadays we go further than frankfurt
and the youth who want to drive a truck but not weeks away from home and a good salary
transport in europe and in america is slowly ruined
It's not a shortage of driver's it's a shortage of MONEY 💰
Exactly right. If drivers were paid what they were worth compared to other professions & treated like other professionals [ paid meals on the road etc.] there would be lots of drivers.
Mint video thanks 4 the c back in cool
Been driving since the 80’s and yessir it’s changed a lot drivers now a days have no respect for their selfs so how can they respect anybody else they drive their trucks like they drive their cars slow down be considerate it ain’t all about you
47 years last November. I remember going into shippers and receivers and have an absolutely no problem driving all over America but after 9:11 a lot of things changed after April fool's Day in 1995 when the CDL came out there were a lot of changes for that too and now with the electric log it's absolutely no fun. Having to live a life underneath the machine telling me what I can and cannot drive. So I said phooey with the interstate and so now I'm local. In the 1980s it felt like I was making good money but as the years went by it's just never gotten to be any better. And I understand truck stops in the general population . My gosh drivers you trash out parking lots to trash out the restrooms a trash out the truck stops you make a slab yourself in the buffet area it's just sickening. Where I grew up in northeastern Wisconsin there was nothing but orange and black trucks everywhere and I knew when I was a kid I want to drive one of them and I've been driving for 47 years and I knew a lot of truck drivers in the area and they were always very polite and helpful and now this. When I smack into the 50 years of driving that's when I'm going to exit if the embarrassments lack of manners from fellow drivers don't drive me out first. Because even at the shippers and receivers all your garbage ends up in the parking lot for somebody else to pick up and or they leave it there to rot
I did my 38 years, i gess we get old right yup i miss it. the good old day was the best dam right guys.
I drove over the road since 1999 till I retired . I owned my own truck. my last 6 years I had a dedicated run for Honda running car parts. before I got that run the dispatcher disrespected the drivers, Terminal manger would lie to you in a heart beat. thy would play games with the detention pay. and so on. the scale house most where OK but others would fined something wrong. I got a ticket for a marker light being out. I proved it was working I was told by the dot I'm getting a ticket for something ether except it or he will find something that cost much more..
We were subject to far too much abuse from dispatchers ,Dot , cops, shippers, receivers .
I drove for a A& P food stores till they went out of business in 1996
@leewalker3514
I just retired......
40 years six million miles....NOTHING but a LIFETIME of REGRETS,REMORSE.
My children are just people that I share DNA and a LAST NAME with.The missed family events.Like the time my son moved from tee ball up to the pitching machine....he was the only one that didn't run away or throw his bat down and the first one to get a hit......
HEARD ABOUT IT
BUT WASN'T THERE.
No friends to speak of
Just a bunch of guys that you run with only to leave them behind at the next exit or truckstop.
I wish I had never seen the inside of a truck,muchless learned to drive.
I would have come out better working at NAPA auto parts delivering parts for 15 dollars an hour and been home every night.
@MarshallMcCrory This hurts my heart man. I pray you find your peace, you guys deserve so much more than you were given. Know your sacrifices are far from unappreciated, and I thank you for giving so much of your time taking care of more families than you know.
Let's face it big brother is the problem
Peddled for over a decade. Started in a Cabover. Trucking lost its appeal when Government ruined the Industry with its "Agenda". Laws, Regs,more Laws,and Regs. Those that still do it, 🙏 Respect.