Hey, I wanted to say that I appreciate what you do, man. The way that I make a living is by sending all of my product out to FBA. It takes basically all of my time during 4th quarter, and you guys always do such a nice job making sure my stuff gets out to the customer fast and efficient. Thank You :)
The algorithm is tossing me your older videos now. Sounds like the real grind at amazon being a picker, but a job is a job. Nicely done to keep on moving down the road. I know you kept it up Brian as this is over 7 years old. You are a solid guy!
Good video. Thanks. I've heard about this Amazon program, but wondered how it worked and what was done. I say: If it works for you, then do it. When it no longer works, just move on. Best Wishes for your journey and adventure!
Damn Brian you look exhausted. I've done a warehouse job. Made it a month before having to leave, so I think you are right. The payout for the short time span is perfect. You know your living your dream and this keeps you doing it. Thanks for the video friend and I look forward to the next one.
Dude you've totally proved that you're saying and normal and can work these jobs traveling you're just proof that people can do what you do God bless you
Thanks for all the great information, Brian. I can see where the monotony gets to you, but as you've mentioned, at least you're moving around and not stuck in one spot. Hang in there. You're almost done and will be back on the road soon. "Eye on the prize" is right.
Hard work has never killed anybody. People who want to loaf should stay away from Amazon. Good luck to you. Keep going, people like you gice us hope. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.
Your video brings back many good memories. I worked as a truck driver for many years prior to this season(2017). A cancer health issue kept me away this year. Hope to be back next year. Great video. I used to stay at the RV park next to the car wash.
If I haven’t said it before , Brian , I must say that you are a dear dear man.. incredible generosity, kindness and heart .. bless you and I hope your dreams are realized as each day passes ... best of luck with your new van ( I know this is an older video , but I think you are now in process of giving your van to someone , and working on your next van ) Be well and best of luck to you ....
Hi Brian. As with many things, its all about your mind and the way you perceive things, and what you are prepared to do to reach your goal. Having the right mind set will help you to acheive what you want. I was told by many including my friends, that I was too old to change my career path and become a gas engineer, but I studied hard and did just that. In a recession I was told it would be impossible to go self employed and find enough work to survive, its been and still is hard, but I'm still self employed. March of this year I passed the first level of electrical exams, I acheived this by studying a hour after work almost every night. I still study a hour after work every night as my gas qualifications are due for renewal february, and I'm sitting them in January. When thats over with, I will be studying for my advanced electrical qualifications. There are very few people that have both gas and electrical qualifications, but there is a good market for someone who has. All this I do so that I can work and possibly stealth camp in Londons commuter belt, so that I can afford to retire comfortably, and have money spare to do things I want. If I had looked at what I've just written as a whole at the begining of my life changes, I probably wouldnt have started the journey. But I broke it down into segments, and then broke each segment down into smaller steps. Every time I take a step I'm a step closer to where I want to be. I have moments when I wonder wether what I'm doing is worth doing. Its ok to have moments of doubt, but I think its worth doing to find out. I dont want to enter old age with regrets about what I didnt at least try to acheive. I'm glad to see you have a good mind set, and havent taken your eye off the prize. Every step is a step closer to what you want to do. Also consider your getting paid to exercise, as I've previously mentioned perception is important. Keep your eye on the prize. Stay strong, safe, healthy, happy and contented my friend.
I could do this...I have done this. Factory work in Wisconsin...a lot of factories have pick cells. Knowing what your getting into right up front makes the job easier. And its seasonal...Perfect!!!
Thank you for the information. I may try that next year. For me just knowing that it's only temporary seems like enough to get through it. Keep your nose to the grind stone you are almost on the next adventure.
love your videos dude! well made and easy to watch and informative. i lucked into union painter gig working for an industrial painting company. jobs all over the country. jobs last 1 month to 6 months.i go a-wall for a month or two after each ones over. lol And they give a generous perdium check each week. Haha . Ima a buy a lil lake lot after this jobs over and build a sort of base camp but forever a drifter... Forever grateful... --Peace--
thanks for sharing. End of 2016 I was planning on heading on the road in my camper van. I wasn't sure how I was going to make extra money other than my Real Estate back at home. I never knew amazon did this... LOVE IT!! Can not thank you enough for the info
Good Luck with your last few weeks... tough job but the reward will out weigh it... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Looking forward to your future travels.
I love shopping on Amazon and you never think of how that order gets to you. I always thought these orders were filled by robots. I bet you feel like one sometimes. Thank you for your hard work on behalf of all of us who ordered and got our packages for Christmas
Thank you for your hard work, we seem to get packages everyday from Amazon... Happy to hear your review of the job because I have heard many and yours falls right in line... Hang tough, can't wait to see where you end up next 🌞
Just did some quick math and the number I came up with for an 8 week stint there wasn't bad. I didn't calculate for time and a half pay, just straight time and that wasn't bad number by itself. Based on a 10 hour day. I'm gonna look into it for next season. Checked the web site, applications are closed for this year. Good info thank you sir.
I love the fact that you can work say 2 or 3 months and go onto something else down the road. i have been thinking more and more about something like this. keep up the good work and please be safe
Hey Brian you're awsome I have become a real fan of yours.In fact I have been watching your videos before I even bought my van and converted it.I have a 1993 ford aerostar van.I tyled the floor and pun an army cot in it with 3 inch memory foam mattress.I also put matching curtains around the windows.While I like the van and it gets pretty good mpg I wish that I had bought a larger van.I will stay in my aero star van for a while and get a bigger one later when I can afford it.Well any how sorry for this long story I know that you are very busy.I have been looking into working for amazon and staying at the rv park for a while.My question to you is where is the rv park located?I would like to get in on it!! Hey keep up the great work and thank you so much for all of your wonderful videos,you are a great speaker by the way,and like how you speak from your heart.
Undercover Boss had a show where the CEO guy was a picker for his company. Between trying to understand the voice from the handheld thing he had, to walking forever in a concrete jungle, is daunting. Staying focused is indeed a needed trait.
Brian, Thanks for another interesting video. Have to watch more of these to see what is most economical and reliable type of van for RV nomadic traveling.
Sounds like my summer I spent working in the crocs warehouse in Denver as a picker very monotonous, lots of walking, lots of sore feet. Thank you for the explanation of the Amazon work camp job. 😄
Hey Brian, just found your channel thru this video. Liked and subbed. Good info, you sure sounded tired man. I'm just starting here in CVille. Start 10 hour shifts tomorrow. I'm picking as well and have already been able to meet my quota so not worried about that part. Any tips for keeping your feet in shape? Keep up the good vids!
+Rob Morrill Hi Rob. Thanks for subbing to my channel. I found its pretty easy to meet the picking quotas. I started out really hustling then realized I could slow my pace way down and still keep good numbers. Pretty tough walking so much but a good way to get some exercise :) Im going to try using a dishpan for hot foot baths with epsom salt after shifts this season to see if that helps. I'll be there in early Nov. Probably see you around. What camp are you at and what shift?
Good idea about soaking in Epsom salts. I'm doing the D shift (5:30 - 4) I'm a night person so works for me. Staying at Heartland across the road pretty dismal but convenient. WiFi not working here. Yeah it would be cool to hang sometime. All old couples it seems. Lol Did you mention in your video that CVille is in a dry county. Not a biggie but something to be aware of.
+Rob Morrill Cool, I havent got my shift confirmation yet. I was on nights last season. Yes, Im pretty sure I mentioned it was a dry county. Closest place to get alcoholic beverages is in Lebanon :)
so glad I found this video I subscribed. I'm going to look into this option a lot more I'm buying my first a class monday. hope to live like this soon. keep living the dream thanks for the info.
Hi, nice video that you made...I just subscribed and liked. I’m wondering how much money you actually left with, how much after taxes and deductions for the time you worked there. Sounds like possibly 3-4 K? I’m looking into the Beet Season...a few thousand could last a long time if you use it wisely. My great grandpa lived out of a small van and would pick Apples in Washington State and vegetables in Yuma Arizona. He would carve animals out of wood and sell them at the flea markets in Yuma, and grandma would do bead work and sell items too. They did what they had to in order to get by. Thanks.
Hi Brian, I am a new subscriber! I am thinking about working at Amazon someday. I'm curious as to how close the campsite is to the fulfillment center? Is it on site, or is there a commute? Also, do you get a lunch break at some point where it gives you a chance to go back to your rig? I have a dog that I would have to let out during a break for a quick potty break. Thanks...and great info!
I KNOW I could do this job! I Love Amazon. I would feel like I was helping people like me who hate shopping! My daughter is a packer for Target Distribution. I know I couldn't do it full time but I could do it as work camping for sure!
I feel yah man I did factory for yrs lots of standing and doing same thing You have to shut down when get to work and just do it and work for paydays Peace
Thank you for describing the jobs at Amazon's Camperforce. I would LUV to have a free campsite while I'm earning pay. Sounds like between this and the sugarbeet harvest, I could pull a year's pay for a few month's work.
Hey Brian. What about taking a Towercrane certifikate, it´s work almost everywhere, there is projects from 2 weeks to a year, gooood pay and not to bad on your back.. Suits the campervan way of living aswell..
You sound like your tired and getting burnt out, just be glad you don't have to do drywall all the time with no end on the horizon!! hahaha. Your doing a great job and even with all this work you still upload vids for us. Do you ever sleep? Keep your head up buddy freedom will be here before you know it.
Amazombies! lol haven't heard that in a while. oh how I understand the feeling of being over it! it does get to you but like you said you get to leave after the season is over and that last day is a good feeling! its like being released from jail (not that I know what that's like lol).
Hey Brian. Amazon Camperforce is a great place to stockpile the cash while keeping expenses at a bare minimum. It's hard to spend money when you're working all day. Ha! Have you checked out Becky's blog - Intersellar Orchard? This is her 4th year working the Amz Camperforce and she has lots of detailed info about the different job positions: www.interstellarorchard.com/2012/06/26/about-amazons-camperforce/
+Traveling Troy Thanks Troy. Yes, I have been following Beckys blog for a couple years. She has been a great inspiration for me. I hope to meet up with her in Quartzsite.
Great video Brian. Love your positive attitude even though you are obviously exhausted, rightfully so. I believe it was Becky from IO who was talking about the picking robots at some facilities. Any idea of whether all the facilities are moving in that direction and if the camperforce size will be reduced as a result? Thinking about applying for next year. Also you mentioned other job leads you've gotten from other campers. Could you do a video explaining some of those?
+AmtrakJack42 Sounds like to robots are quite a way off. I think they will need the campers for quite a few years. I will share as many of the resources and jobs as I find them.
Years ago I worked at a warehouse doing the same thing! Picking orders. It is boring and after 12 hours of walking on concrete you sure need a good pair of shoes to save your back. Good luck Brian, tough it out. About 3 weeks left?
Thanks for the info man. I'm wondering if you can have an ear bud in to listen to music or podcast while you work? That would be a huge help getting though the shifts for me.
Have you seen any workampers with Amazon, the sugar beet harvest or any other temp jobs that provide a campsite that have a large dog that travels with them.
AdventureVanMan Hi and thank you for this info. why no ipods or phones? Are they concerned it will slow production? I agree people need a bit of social interaction at work with that many hours.
Hang in there Brian! I hope you are able to start setting aside some money for your retirement in an IRA. Reaching "critical mass" where you can live on your assets and not have to work for the man seems like true freedom.
Thank you for being honest about it, when I get my rv or van I want to give it a try there. Great video keep up the good work. : ) Oh how do you get the job at Amazon, like do you have to go on line or call someone?
+mkline718 James is doing good. I see him at work most nights. We have been hanging out on our days off when we can. He is tired also but has a good attitude!
hi brian,when did you apply for the job for 2015.Looking at doing this for 2016 holiday season.Thanks and keep up the great vids.I have learned a ton from you
Hey Brian, my family lives in San Diego and I'm in OC. Do you think I can get your assistance to help me build my van. I want to purchase a Dodge Promaster 1500. The essentials I want are; Solar, bed, sink (grey & white water), and shelves for clothes. Please help.
+bearsuc .bearsuc Amazon gives a list of campgrounds to choose from. There was about 9 different campgrounds to choose from. The campground must be from the list in order for it to be paid for by Amazon.
No bus system here. Same as beet harvest. We are not camped at the work grounds. Most that have big Rvs car pool with other workers. Not sure what you mean by 'clean everything up everyday'.? Its a campround with an assigned site so you return to the same campsite.
Yes, you would probably want to carpool with a coworker at the campground. Most have been here since Sept and either have a tow behind vehicle to commute with, or have the vehicle they tow their trailer or 5th wheel with. Everyone is really friendly and is always glad to help a fellow workcamper :)
Brian thanks for the information. I did this type of work over thirty years ago for a while only difference is I drove a cart around the warehouse picking. Also did packing, both very tedious jobs but the company I worked for paid great so....I do have a question, do they bus you from the campground to Amazon? Are you locked in to the length of time you have to work for them and is mandatory OT required? You are almost at the end buddy, stand strong. jman
+A Few Minutes With jman Thanks. There is no bus from campground to the facility. There is a lot of car pooling with the campers though. 50 hours is the required amount of hours. They do offer voluntary time off sometimes if you want to work less. It is preferred workers stay until Dec. 23rd and a bonus it offered if you stay until then, but no required.
It's great to know there is an avenue for income when you need it. I can tell by your voice that your itching to be done with it.. lol... hang in there Man.
+Sean Murphy I'm not sure about unemployment because I'm not a resident of the state I worked in. Amazon has strict policies against photos or video in their facilities. Otherwise I would have got some footage. :)
Brian, good luck finishing up your last two weeks. If its not too much to ask, what is your average number of overtime hours? You mentioned its 50 at least, but I was wondering if that is sort of the limit, or if it would sometimes range up to 60 or so. Thanks again, and have a great Christmas.
+Bill Carroll The required overtime is 10hours a week, making 50 hours. You can volunteer for more overtime maxing out at 59 hours a week. They also offer voluntary time off sometimes, if you want to work less than the 50 hours.
Of course they appreciate you - you're working for almost nothing! I don't think I could get my head around working so hard for so little money. I do like your attitude though - you have a goal and you're making it work. I does sound like the sugar beat gig was more fun.
This is a low wage job that only requires minimal skill. But it is a valid option to make some money for a few months. Plus, it provides a free home base for a period. Now that you know the facts, make your own decision. GoneCamper.com
No rent for a month, especially if there's power and water, is worth about $600. Add that $150/week to the (40*10.25-taxes) and you're talking roughly $500/week or $2,000 a month after taxes, before overtime. That's not THAT bad considering the flexibility offered. The job is boring and active but there are much worse options.
Great stuff man! I'm hoping to get on the road with my family starting next June (2018). I've been looking into WWOOF and workamping. Do you think these jobs are enough to help feed a family of four and do some free adventure camping?
hey....thanks for the info. my question is...how many locations/states does amazon have for these type of shipping job? know there is something in Florida but is there other places as well ? hang in you're almost done. deb
Thanks for all of the info. Question: 1.What were your main sources for finding workamping jobs? ( I apologize if you have had to answer this question before.) & 2.Is medical marijuana an issue at these jobs? You're great Brian. Be blessed.
+Vantastic Lifestyle I just used Google to find my last 2 jobs. I will be networking with other fulltime RVers and travelers to find my next job. Sugar beet harvest job did not drug test. Amazon does drug test, and I assume medical marijuana would be a problem.
Excellent summary. Good luck Brian and thanks for keeping it real! Peace
+West Coast Roller Thanks man! :)
Hey, I wanted to say that I appreciate what you do, man. The way that I make a living is by sending all of my product out to FBA. It takes basically all of my time during 4th quarter, and you guys always do such a nice job making sure my stuff gets out to the customer fast and efficient. Thank You :)
The algorithm is tossing me your older videos now. Sounds like the real grind at amazon being a picker, but a job is a job. Nicely done to keep on moving down the road. I know you kept it up Brian as this is over 7 years old. You are a solid guy!
Man, time flies!!! 👍🏼
Man, time flies!!! 👍🏼
@@AdventureVanMan Wow, a double thumbs up, just like the Fonz! :) (if you remember that TV show reference. :)
Good video. Thanks. I've heard about this Amazon program, but wondered how it worked and what was done.
I say: If it works for you, then do it. When it no longer works, just move on.
Best Wishes for your journey and adventure!
Damn Brian you look exhausted. I've done a warehouse job. Made it a month before having to leave, so I think you are right. The payout for the short time span is perfect. You know your living your dream and this keeps you doing it. Thanks for the video friend and I look forward to the next one.
Dude you've totally proved that you're saying and normal and can work these jobs traveling you're just proof that people can do what you do God bless you
Thanks for all the great information, Brian. I can see where the monotony gets to you, but as you've mentioned, at least you're moving around and not stuck in one spot. Hang in there. You're almost done and will be back on the road soon. "Eye on the prize" is right.
+Sarah Y Looking forward to being back on the road :)
AdventureVanMan
Hard work has never killed anybody. People who want to loaf should stay away from Amazon. Good luck to you. Keep going, people like you gice us hope. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.
Your video brings back many good memories. I worked as a truck driver for many years prior to this season(2017). A cancer health issue kept me away this year. Hope to be back next year. Great video. I used to stay at the RV park next to the car wash.
Thanks Brian. I appreciate you sharing your experience. Best wishes for smooth cruising.
If I haven’t said it before , Brian , I must say that you are a dear dear man.. incredible generosity, kindness and heart .. bless you and I hope your dreams are realized as each day passes ...
best of luck with your new van ( I know this is an older video , but I think you are now in process of giving your van to someone , and working on your next van )
Be well and best of luck to you ....
Hi Brian.
As with many things, its all about your mind and the way you perceive things, and what you are prepared to do to reach your goal. Having the right mind set will help you to acheive what you want.
I was told by many including my friends, that I was too old to change my career path and become a gas engineer, but I studied hard and did just that. In a recession I was told it would be impossible to go self employed and find enough work to survive, its been and still is hard, but I'm still self employed. March of this year I passed the first level of electrical exams, I acheived this by studying a hour after work almost every night. I still study a hour after work every night as my gas qualifications are due for renewal february, and I'm sitting them in January. When thats over with, I will be studying for my advanced electrical qualifications. There are very few people that have both gas and electrical qualifications, but there is a good market for someone who has.
All this I do so that I can work and possibly stealth camp in Londons commuter belt, so that I can afford to retire comfortably, and have money spare to do things I want.
If I had looked at what I've just written as a whole at the begining of my life changes, I probably wouldnt have started the journey. But I broke it down into segments, and then broke each segment down into smaller steps. Every time I take a step I'm a step closer to where I want to be.
I have moments when I wonder wether what I'm doing is worth doing. Its ok to have moments of doubt, but I think its worth doing to find out. I dont want to enter old age with regrets about what I didnt at least try to acheive.
I'm glad to see you have a good mind set, and havent taken your eye off the prize. Every step is a step closer to what you want to do. Also consider your getting paid to exercise, as I've previously mentioned perception is important.
Keep your eye on the prize. Stay strong, safe, healthy, happy and contented my friend.
Great summary Brian. Safe travels as you explore our great country.
Thanks Brian for the info. I appreciate the positive work attitude!
I could do this...I have done this. Factory work in Wisconsin...a lot of factories have pick cells. Knowing what your getting into right up front makes the job easier. And its seasonal...Perfect!!!
Hey Man nice video......Would like to hear more about other jobs you have come across while on the road
Amazombie!!!! I had no idea!!! Thanks for the education Brian!!!
Thank you for the information. I may try that next year. For me just knowing that it's only temporary seems like enough to get through it. Keep your nose to the grind stone you are almost on the next adventure.
love your videos dude! well made and easy to watch and informative. i lucked into union painter gig working for an industrial painting company. jobs all over the country. jobs last 1 month to 6 months.i go a-wall for a month or two after each ones over. lol And they give a generous perdium check each week. Haha . Ima a buy a lil lake lot after this jobs over and build a sort of base camp but forever a drifter... Forever grateful... --Peace--
koty314, it's AWOL, an acronym for "absent with out leave" that came from the military.
thanks for sharing. End of 2016 I was planning on heading on the road in my camper van. I wasn't sure how I was going to make extra money other than my Real Estate back at home. I never knew amazon did this... LOVE IT!! Can not thank you enough for the info
+Joshua Stahlman Amazon Camperforce is a great opportunity to make some extra $$ :)
Good Luck with your last few weeks... tough job but the reward will out weigh it... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Looking forward to your future travels.
I love shopping on Amazon and you never think of how that order gets to you. I always thought these orders were filled by robots. I bet you feel like one sometimes. Thank you for your hard work on behalf of all of us who ordered and got our packages for Christmas
Thank you for your hard work, we seem to get packages everyday from Amazon... Happy to hear your review of the job because I have heard many and yours falls right in line... Hang tough, can't wait to see where you end up next 🌞
We do what we have to do so we can do what we want to do.
Thank you for doing this video. It is nice to get a little inside info even if it was not exactly what I was hoping to hear :)
Just did some quick math and the number I came up with for an 8 week stint there wasn't bad. I didn't calculate for time and a half pay, just straight time and that wasn't bad number by itself. Based on a 10 hour day. I'm gonna look into it for next season. Checked the web site, applications are closed for this year. Good info thank you sir.
I love the fact that you can work say 2 or 3 months and go onto something else down the road. i have been thinking more and more about something like this. keep up the good work and please be safe
Hey Brian you're awsome I have become a real fan of yours.In fact I have been watching your videos before I even bought my van and converted it.I have a 1993 ford aerostar van.I tyled the floor and pun an army cot in it with 3 inch memory foam mattress.I also put matching curtains around the windows.While I like the van and it gets pretty good mpg I wish that I had bought a larger van.I will stay in my aero star van for a while and get a bigger one later when I can afford it.Well any how sorry for this long story I know that you are very busy.I have been looking into working for amazon and staying at the rv park for a while.My question to you is where is the rv park located?I would like to get in on it!! Hey keep up the great work and thank you so much for all of your wonderful videos,you are a great speaker by the way,and like how you speak from your heart.
Thanks for the honest and to the point info...keep on rolling.
Great to see you back, dude!
Hey Brian thanks for the straight info
Glad to share what I can :)
Great honest video... I'm curious about how is the campsites that they provide.
So.... You are out of there right before Christmas!🎄 Great that you found that job. Thanks for posting this video☀️
+Gregory Johnson Yes, last day is Dec. 23rd :)
Undercover Boss had a show where the CEO guy was a picker for his company. Between trying to understand the voice from the handheld thing he had, to walking forever in a concrete jungle, is daunting. Staying focused is indeed a needed trait.
It's about time we heard about you and see your set up! I've been watching a year and never caught your name.. nice to meet you Brian!
very interesting - gives me respect for the folks at Amazon doing the work -
Brian, Thanks for another interesting video. Have to watch more of these to see what is most economical and reliable type of van for RV nomadic traveling.
Minivans like the astro or safari
You communicate the reality of it perfectly. Can even see how tired you were as you made this video. Counting the hours, counting the days ........
Sounds like my summer I spent working in the crocs warehouse in Denver as a picker very monotonous, lots of walking, lots of sore feet. Thank you for the explanation of the Amazon work camp job. 😄
Thanks for the video. Be safe and have fun, Life is short.
Hey Brian, just found your channel thru this video. Liked and subbed. Good info, you sure sounded tired man. I'm just starting here in CVille. Start 10 hour shifts tomorrow. I'm picking as well and have already been able to meet my quota so not worried about that part. Any tips for keeping your feet in shape? Keep up the good vids!
+Rob Morrill Hi Rob. Thanks for subbing to my channel. I found its pretty easy to meet the picking quotas. I started out really hustling then realized I could slow my pace way down and still keep good numbers. Pretty tough walking so much but a good way to get some exercise :) Im going to try using a dishpan for hot foot baths with epsom salt after shifts this season to see if that helps. I'll be there in early Nov. Probably see you around. What camp are you at and what shift?
Good idea about soaking in Epsom salts. I'm doing the D shift (5:30 - 4) I'm a night person so works for me. Staying at Heartland across the road pretty dismal but convenient. WiFi not working here. Yeah it would be cool to hang sometime. All old couples it seems. Lol Did you mention in your video that CVille is in a dry county. Not a biggie but something to be aware of.
+Rob Morrill Cool, I havent got my shift confirmation yet. I was on nights last season. Yes, Im pretty sure I mentioned it was a dry county. Closest place to get alcoholic beverages is in Lebanon :)
I didn't get my shift info til almost the end of the first day orientation. Which campground you planning on staying at?
BTW I heard on the radio they are having a vote on alcohol sales this week so hopefully this will change by next year.
so glad I found this video I subscribed. I'm going to look into this option a lot more I'm buying my first a class monday. hope to live like this soon. keep living the dream thanks for the info.
+That one dude Thank you, glad the info was helpful.
Hi, nice video that you made...I just subscribed and liked. I’m wondering how much money you actually left with, how much after taxes and deductions for the time you worked there. Sounds like possibly 3-4 K? I’m looking into the Beet Season...a few thousand could last a long time if you use it wisely. My great grandpa lived out of a small van and would pick Apples in Washington State and vegetables in Yuma Arizona.
He would carve animals out of wood and sell them at the flea markets in Yuma, and grandma would do bead work and sell items too. They did what they had to in order to get by. Thanks.
An interesting insight into your seasonal work. That would be a difficult job on nightshift.
Hi Brian, I am a new subscriber! I am thinking about working at Amazon someday. I'm curious as to how close the campsite is to the fulfillment center? Is it on site, or is there a commute? Also, do you get a lunch break at some point where it gives you a chance to go back to your rig? I have a dog that I would have to let out during a break for a quick potty break. Thanks...and great info!
I KNOW I could do this job! I Love Amazon. I would feel like I was helping people like me who hate shopping! My daughter is a packer for Target Distribution. I know I couldn't do it full time but I could do it as work camping for sure!
+Debra Adair Amazon is a great seasonal job, I would never want to work there year round though!
I feel yah man I did factory for yrs lots of standing and doing same thing You have to shut down when get to work and just do it and work for paydays Peace
Thank you for describing the jobs at Amazon's Camperforce. I would LUV to have a free campsite while I'm earning pay. Sounds like between this and the sugarbeet harvest, I could pull a year's pay for a few month's work.
Hey Brian.
What about taking a Towercrane certifikate, it´s work almost everywhere, there is projects from 2 weeks to a year, gooood pay and not to bad on your back.. Suits the campervan way of living aswell..
Nice information given which sounds very positive and encouraging and being honest!!!
I would love to do the picking job.....I love to walk alot too.
Brian.I applied for a position and am going through the process to earn a living getting started as my first workcamping job
This must be an even better deal, now that it's 6 years later almost and Amazon is paying people $16 an hour most places starting. Is this correct?
Sound's like Hell, stay safe and hope you get out of there soon. Love your vids, Amazombies are very scary.
+Curtis Bird Its really not that bad, I have done much worse for work.
Good information. Do they ever hire any skilled trades people.
Hey man keep you chin up things will get better
You sound like your tired and getting burnt out, just be glad you don't have to do drywall all the time with no end on the horizon!! hahaha. Your doing a great job and even with all this work you still upload vids for us. Do you ever sleep? Keep your head up buddy freedom will be here before you know it.
+darfirst Thanks man. Looking forward to being done with this job! :)
You should try the cotton gins. Its the same hours, same months as amazon. Much more desirable. Easy peasy. Try the Lubbock TX. area
Great info to know...thanks Brian....hey free stay is a good thing for 7 weeks of free, yap...Happy Trails!
Amazombies! lol haven't heard that in a while. oh how I understand the feeling of being over it! it does get to you but like you said you get to leave after the season is over and that last day is a good feeling! its like being released from jail (not that I know what that's like lol).
Hey Brian. Amazon Camperforce is a great place to stockpile the cash while keeping expenses at a bare minimum. It's hard to spend money when you're working all day. Ha! Have you checked out Becky's blog - Intersellar Orchard? This is her 4th year working the Amz Camperforce and she has lots of detailed info about the different job positions:
www.interstellarorchard.com/2012/06/26/about-amazons-camperforce/
+Traveling Troy Thanks Troy. Yes, I have been following Beckys blog for a couple years. She has been a great inspiration for me. I hope to meet up with her in Quartzsite.
Greetings Brian....Thank you for the great info....Would you know of other work like this beside Amazon....
New subbie. Found you from your interview with Follow your hearts.
Thank you for sharing.
Great video Brian. Love your positive attitude even though you are obviously exhausted, rightfully so. I believe it was Becky from IO who was talking about the picking robots at some facilities. Any idea of whether all the facilities are moving in that direction and if the camperforce size will be reduced as a result? Thinking about applying for next year. Also you mentioned other job leads you've gotten from other campers. Could you do a video explaining some of those?
+AmtrakJack42 Sounds like to robots are quite a way off. I think they will need the campers for quite a few years. I will share as many of the resources and jobs as I find them.
Thanks!
Years ago I worked at a warehouse doing the same thing! Picking orders. It is boring and after 12 hours of walking on concrete you sure need a good pair of shoes to save your back. Good luck Brian, tough it out. About 3 weeks left?
+Robert S Last day is Dec. 23rd....almost there! :)
Loving those lambchop sideburns!
Thanks for the info man. I'm wondering if you can have an ear bud in to listen to music or podcast while you work? That would be a huge help getting though the shifts for me.
+thirdeyevision11 No, electronic devices allowed at all. Music would make it so much better though for sure. They are very strict with the policy.
Have you seen any workampers with Amazon, the sugar beet harvest or any other temp jobs that provide a campsite that have a large dog that travels with them.
most I have seen is a woman with 7 dogs😁👍
Make my money and get back out there! Words of wisdom.
Can you listen to your iPod while picking for Amazon?
+Jazzie Red No you cannot, no Ipods no cellphones allowed
Oh so boring. I couldn't do it. Music or MPR would make the day go by faster.
+Ray J do they search you for ipods?
+lainey marie yes, you have to go through a security check. Absolutely no ipods or phones!
AdventureVanMan Hi and thank you for this info. why no ipods or phones? Are they concerned it will slow production?
I agree people need a bit of social interaction at work with that many hours.
Interesting info!
Hang in there Brian! I hope you are able to start setting aside some money for your retirement in an IRA. Reaching "critical mass" where you can live on your assets and not have to work for the man seems like true freedom.
+beaconbus I agree, but there is no true freedom, but we can get close to it.
Great info as usual.
Cool thanks for the information, thanks for sharing!! Blessings Salo
+salostanley Thank you Salo :)
AdventureVanMan :)
Thank you for being honest about it, when I get my rv or van I want to give it a try there. Great video keep up the good work. : ) Oh how do you get the job at Amazon, like do you have to go on line or call someone?
Nice video. How quickly can you get a new job to travel to? It'd be great to just have a week or so in between.
Thanks ,
Great information.
I looked but didn't see.
Do the campsites have full hookups?
Thanks
I wonder how wanderlust estate is doing there. I think they are staying in the same campground.
+mkline718 James is doing good. I see him at work most nights. We have been hanging out on our days off when we can. He is tired also but has a good attitude!
hi brian,when did you apply for the job for 2015.Looking at doing this for 2016 holiday season.Thanks and keep up the great vids.I have learned a ton from you
This is time to start applying.
Hey Brian, my family lives in San Diego and I'm in OC. Do you think I can get your assistance to help me build my van. I want to purchase a Dodge Promaster 1500. The essentials I want are;
Solar, bed, sink (grey & white water), and shelves for clothes. Please help.
+C M You can email me at AdventureVanLife@gmail 😊👍
Will you do videos of your campsite and how you found/chose the place you are at for the job time frame.
+bearsuc .bearsuc Amazon gives a list of campgrounds to choose from. There was about 9 different campgrounds to choose from. The campground must be from the list in order for it to be paid for by Amazon.
No bus system here. Same as beet harvest. We are not camped at the work grounds. Most that have big Rvs car pool with other workers. Not sure what you mean by 'clean everything up everyday'.? Its a campround with an assigned site so you return to the same campsite.
Yes, you would probably want to carpool with a coworker at the campground. Most have been here since Sept and either have a tow behind vehicle to commute with, or have the vehicle they tow their trailer or 5th wheel with. Everyone is really friendly and is always glad to help a fellow workcamper :)
Can you listen to audio books as you scurry around, or is it too loud? Thanks for a great, informative video.
+Mike Doyle No, there are no electronic devices allowed at all.
thanks for the info
Good infor.nation, Brian! 👍
Overall, Which do you like to work best- Amazon or sugar beet harvest or Alaska fish job?
Your a good hard working person what are you doing now?
Brian thanks for the information. I did this type of work over thirty years ago for a while only difference is I drove a cart around the warehouse picking. Also did packing, both very tedious jobs but the company I worked for paid great so....I do have a question, do they bus you from the campground to Amazon? Are you locked in to the length of time you have to work for them and is mandatory OT required? You are almost at the end buddy, stand strong. jman
+A Few Minutes With jman Thanks. There is no bus from campground to the facility. There is a lot of car pooling with the campers though. 50 hours is the required amount of hours. They do offer voluntary time off sometimes if you want to work less. It is preferred workers stay until Dec. 23rd and a bonus it offered if you stay until then, but no required.
+AdventureVanMan Thanks for the reply Brian, you are almost free hang tough before long you will be back on the road for some well deserved R&R. jman
It's great to know there is an avenue for income when you need it. I can tell by your voice that your itching to be done with it.. lol... hang in there Man.
With the ot what did you average per hour?
I'v been working for amazon for 8 years lol. People always ask me how I can stand it, but it's not that bad.
Hi Brian, can you file as unemployment after the job? Woulda loved to see a couple clips from the site too if possible.
+Sean Murphy I'm not sure about unemployment because I'm not a resident of the state I worked in. Amazon has strict policies against photos or video in their facilities. Otherwise I would have got some footage. :)
your size burn is awsome
Brian, good luck finishing up your last two weeks. If its not too much to ask, what is your average number of overtime hours? You mentioned its 50 at least, but I was wondering if that is sort of the limit, or if it would sometimes range up to 60 or so. Thanks again, and have a great Christmas.
+Bill Carroll The required overtime is 10hours a week, making 50 hours. You can volunteer for more overtime maxing out at 59 hours a week. They also offer voluntary time off sometimes, if you want to work less than the 50 hours.
Of course they appreciate you - you're working for almost nothing! I don't think I could get my head around working so hard for so little money. I do like your attitude though - you have a goal and you're making it work. I does sound like the sugar beat gig was more fun.
This is a low wage job that only requires minimal skill. But it is a valid option to make some money for a few months. Plus, it provides a free home base for a period. Now that you know the facts, make your own decision. GoneCamper.com
No rent for a month, especially if there's power and water, is worth about $600. Add that $150/week to the (40*10.25-taxes) and you're talking roughly $500/week or $2,000 a month after taxes, before overtime. That's not THAT bad considering the flexibility offered. The job is boring and active but there are much worse options.
Great stuff man! I'm hoping to get on the road with my family starting next June (2018). I've been looking into WWOOF and workamping. Do you think these jobs are enough to help feed a family of four and do some free adventure camping?
If you work at the fullfiment center, how do you get there? Does a shuttle pick you up and bring you back? David
hey....thanks for the info.
my question is...how many locations/states does amazon have for these type of shipping job?
know there is something in Florida but is there other places as well ?
hang in you're almost done.
deb
+deb the RN There's only a few locations around the country. www.amazonfulfillmentcareers.com/opportunities/camper-force/
+deb the RN There are many facilities throughout the US. There are currently only 4 that offer the camperforce program.
Jesus, people, ever hear of Google?
Thanks for all of the info. Question: 1.What were your main sources for finding workamping jobs? ( I apologize if you have had to answer this question before.) & 2.Is medical marijuana an issue at these jobs? You're great Brian. Be blessed.
+Vantastic Lifestyle I just used Google to find my last 2 jobs. I will be networking with other fulltime RVers and travelers to find my next job. Sugar beet harvest job did not drug test. Amazon does drug test, and I assume medical marijuana would be a problem.
Thanks for the answer. It was just a question I pondered due to it's popularity these days.
Do the campsites have showers and bathroom and laundry room.
The campground I stayed at did! 👍
Is the campground fully paid for by Amazon. How far from Amazon are you. What is the weather like in that part of KY.