Over the Road Trucking List

From Melton Truck Lines:https://meltontruck.com/MileMarker/spring-cleaning/
Spring Cleaning
by Marilyn Surber
March 20, 2015



Spring has sprung and it is time to get serious about Spring Cleaning. It is important for drivers to be prepared for any situation and have the proper attire and equipment in the truck. However, there is a difference between being prepared and over-packing or even hoarding. Over-the-road drivers are out for weeks at a time and can travel to opposite sides of the country, so it is difficult to know what should be kept in the truck and what can be left at home.

It is always a good idea to keep your truck clean and organized, because it will not only be better for you, but also better for customers. Every truck has a hauling capacity; in Melton’s case, we tell our customers that we haul 48,000 pounds. Your empty weight should not take away from this amount. Every driver has a specific way of organizing his or her belongings and it is important for you to find what works best for you.

If you feel like your truck is cluttered or messy, now is a great time to get ahead and clean it out. An easy way to start the cleaning process is to toss out at least one thing that you don’t need every time you stop—especially any trash or food. When you stop by the house, think about all the things you will need for your next trip. Know how long you will be out and only pack what you’ll need for the trip; you can always get more next time you are home. Be prepared for any type of weather or situation but try to pack as lightly as possible.

Here is a basic list of things you will need to keep on the truck:



General Items:

5 changes of clothes (shirt, pants, underwear, socks)

2 long sleeve shirts

1 set of sheets/1 blanket/1 pillow

1 shower towel

1 sleeping attire

Shaving kit

Tooth brush & toothpaste

Shampoo, conditioner & body wash

Flips flops for the shower

Small bag to carry clean clothes

Small laundry bag for the dirty clothes

1 pair of boots

1 pair of comfortable shoes

1 small notebook

Calculator

Pen/ Pencil

Ruler

Flashlight

Personal medications

Atlas

Sunglasses



Summer Add-Ons:

2 pairs of shorts

1 bottle of sunscreen

5 wash cloths (sweat rags)



Winter Add-Ons:

1 pair of insulated coveralls

1 stocking cap

Extra wool socks

3-4 hooded sweatshirts

1 pair of thermal underwear



Of course, it is also important to keep food and drinks in the truck. Always keep healthy, non-perishable food items in the truck such as granola, cereal, trail mix, bread, breakfast bars, etc. If you have a fridge or cooler, then fresh fruit, yogurt, lunch meat, and vegetables are great things to have. You should plan your meals and know how long it will take for your fresh items to spoil so you will prevent your food from going bad.

There are many ways to organize your truck and you will need to find what works best for you. Remember, be prepared for anything but keep your truck light, clean, and organized.