If you will notice, the Bramcity trailer was directly in front of the hole that I was trying to get into and was too close and didn't allow me enough room to get straight enough to start pushing the trailer into the hole without hitting it.
@@raymondperkins3546 That's what I was thinking. Would've saved him time getting in and out of the truck to look. If he was gonna leave the axles forward he needed to be far out from the pocket.
Exactly what I would’ve done plus if you look at all of the trailers their tandems are back so the guard shack may have just forgot to tell him to push tandems back
I’m a new trucker. It makes me feel better that I’m not the only one who gets real nervous when backing into a tight spot. My very first “tight” experience, I had several other brother truckers around watching. I tried my best to do a setup but was too anxious to finish. I parked it, got out and held up a $20 bill. They all asked what I was doing and I said I needed help / valet parking 😂. They all got out to help me and I learned a lot. They didn’t even take my cash but I gladly would have paid it. 😃
If you can't get into a spot they want you to drop the trailer at, go find another spot that's easier to get in. Drop the trailer, pick up your empty and move on. The yard dogs will figure it out. Don't burn your clock.
I have done that , once I went to a Walmart DC on indiana . they told me to drop the trailer around G lot and I noticed they had trailers park crooked and not straight. and one trailer park all the way forward and one all the way back. Just drop it and got my empty yard dog got it
@@kingslender1874 I've done it a few times just remember the spot # and tell em you couldn't get it in without hitting shit and make sure to tell dispatch about it as well
I've been driving 4 years now and there are still days where i seriously struggle in these tight places. Nothing wrong with saying nope to a dangerous situation. I've dropped in different places and let the customer know, and I've also requested a different dock door when they wanna give me the tightest damn door in the place. Most of the time they'll oblige if they can. Other times you just gotta take your time. My mentor told me "it doesn't matter how you get into the hole, as long as you don't hit sh!t!"
Don't sweat it I have seen many 10yr guys with a lot of bad habits that just haven't bitten yet. Learn to avoid those, far more important than backing jitters.
Sure, you are a person who cares about doing things right, you are not alone, 2014 working for an owner/operator I got sent to drop at a brooklyn NY address, when I finally confirm that it was the correct address, I almost had to go to blows with many people who were pissed at me, why? this address put me in the middle of a street in a hood- no degratting intended, I say that about 15 middle east men came out and believe it, they unloaded me while I was parked in the street in good old Brklyn, NY.
Now THAT is a good, professional truck driver! No shame in getting out and looking. And no shame in admitting you're beaten in an impossible back. Too many steering wheel holders let their egos get the best of them---but not this guy. He's got far more skill and poise with these huge semi trucks than I could ever have. I'd be having a heart attack if I had to put a 53' trailer in that narrow space with that little room. Watching this reminds me why I gave up on driving semi trucks....I'll stick with my 26' box truck, thank you very much!!
But that feeling you get when you put that trailer in the hole is a feeling of accomplishment that can't be mirrored. It's double the feeling when a male trucker tried and failed, then here I come and bam right in there. 😁
Hey man too me that wasn't a failure, that was a tight spot. I felt like that was almost impossible to do with a sleeper. You definitely did a lot better than what I could've done.
It may seem counter intuitive but in a situation like that first spot you where in - sliding your tandems back so there is little to no overhang will actually make it much easier to get in a hole like that. While it does make your overall length longer, it allows you to start much closer to the hole and begin putting the trailer into hole much sooner because you can be really tight up against the inside corner of your trailers pivot point and there is no overhang to worry about.. Try practicing this way a few times when you have tots of loom to work with. Your initial setup would likely have worked with this method.
Agreed! One of our drop & hook customers had us drop our inbound empty trailers on a row with very little swinging room between trailers in their docks. ONLY way we could drop our trailers between two other trailers was run the tandems all the way to the rear.
I hope you don't mind my comment? I think you probably would have a lot better chance if you pulled your tags on your trailer all the way back! Course I'm still unclear if you would have the clearance to actually get the trailer in there?
As a yard driver at a warehouse .. I found it annoying when truckers left their trailers in different spots than they were assigned by security and I had to go looking for them .. BUUUTT After trucking a couple years myself .. I would understand them and just let it go
@@PeaceNinja007 I actually just had this situation an hour ago. The F lot where I was supposed to drop my loaded, it was totally full. So I had to drop it where I found my empty.
Man I commend you for maximizing your options as far as getting that trailer into that hole. I’ve been driving for over 4 years and knew as soon as you came upon that hole that it was going to be a challenge to say the least. If you continue to use the approach to backing like you did there even as you obtain years of experience, you’ll be all right. Way to go! 👍
You had it at 10:12 but you showed great, professional GOAL judgment in deciding not to continue. Definitely never, ever, blindside if you can't get it in on the driver's side. As you learned it's much worse and increases the likelihood of a whoopsie. Great job nonetheless. Love your no quit spirit though!!
Respect all the same. This is a profession few get into because of stuff like this. Stuff happens and even the pros mess up still. You still attempted it and you get better with every mistake. As long as no life was taken you're doing good 👌
you're right it never hurts to get out and look! dont feel embarassed about it. im a new driver and had to do a 90 degree blind side back for the first time. probably goal'd like 10 times but i got it in there perfectly and it felt amazing
I drove for Millis, great starter company. SE Region 2006-2009, Cartersville GA… You’ll definitely get better, take your time… you definitely had it… you just gotta get comfortable getting the nose closer to get that swing… great job!
Great video one of the best I’ve ever seen. Great explanation, effort, and discussion. No need to damage equipment. Dropping else-ware does not cost anyone anything. Others should take a lesson on how to analyze the situation for a positive outcome.
2 week's ago I started learning for my truck license, now I have my first real life driving lessons and this kinde of channels are helpfull thanks every trucker for posting.
I don't see a fail at all, and I love your attitude! You did give it your 3 or 4 best shots, and you didn't wreck the trailer. I'm currently in trucking school and don't have the skills yet to pull that off, but I've been in other industries to know some bullshit when I see it and that's what that yard was. I would give it a shot too, but wouldn't feel bad at all leaving it the same way you did. You've got a new subscriber. Thank you for the video.
I watch your video's just for your 1st person view of backing. Hopefully it'll give me an edge once I start the Millis Academy next month. The one on this video looked rough.
I usually say F it and find a easy spot and let them know on the way out. The yard guy can move it. I'm not about to jeopardize my career to back THEIR freight in a dangerous spot!
Great video ! What helps me in that situation is to move my tandem’s all the way to the rear . Now you’re pivoting is at the rear with no tail swing to worry about.
As an experience driver I know this pain way to well. The best thing I ever did was get an 2nd android phone that has 5 gig wifi. There's an app call baby cam. Set up the 2nd phone on an tripod. Both phones connect to each other over wifi
That was super tight! You did well regardless and you had enough since to G.O.A.L. and know when to let it go. Better than having to explain to saftey what happened!
You going to be a good truck driver if you approach things like you do. Stay calm, evaluate the situation, make a sensible plan. And don't worry about taking as long as needed even if other you feeling pressured by other drivers and kuddos for getting out and looking as many times as needed
so this is why they say avoid backing if at all possible and have a spotter to help thank you for showing this video, Im going into classes/training soon
I give this "rookie" kudos for taking his time and putting in a good effort. I'm sure there are MANY seasoned drivers that couldn't get into the tight slot.
Don't feel bad some parking slips aren't design well at all , but super props for trying and testing all your skills and of course performing GOALs when you need too
This looks very doable. The pivot point on the trailer is the tandems and with the tandems so far forword and so much trailer behind the tandems you needed to be partially into your turn before you ever got back to those trailers. So you needed to be farther away from those trailers when you started your turn. Your other option would have been to slide your tandems to the back in which case your pivot point would be the back of the trailer where the wheels are and you could have spun it on a dime... which is what you were trying to do but that's impossible with that much trailer behind the tandems unless the space is a lot wider than a trailer width. I mean looking at the video you had room in front of the truck you could have gotten farther away from it and got partially into the turn it wouldn't have been that difficult.
The first CDL test I took I failed for getting out and looking 3 times. It’s nice to see real world shit situations. I didn’t count, but it was more than 3. You get an A for effort.
Same thing happened to me 40 years ago. I hopped out and looked and the guy giving me the road test failed me. He said a real truck driver should know where the trailer is at all times. This was a road test for a job. You would think the company would like having the drivers get out and look.
Had the same scenario @ Chicago old docks yesterday. Took me 30 min with dozens of goals. Ask shipping to for another open dock Lots open. No, they won't give. Said you have to work it. Good job men. I feel your pain.
Watching your videos makes me want to come on. I already spoke with a recruiter, and they said,” we would love to have you with your 2 years driving experience!”
First off I want to say that you are an amazing driver good work on keep getting out and look. I had to do this 6 times at Albertsons in Portland. I just want to say you made a good decision 💯
Note: From a retired driver, When there is a Yard Jockey around, Let them do it. Don't EVER put yourself in a "tight" spot. It's your license, your time, your fault if it goes wrong.
I would have liked to slide my tandems all the way back if possible. Less tail swing always helps clear walls even if it does make the trailer less responsive and require a little more room in the front to get it where it needs to go.
People think all truck drivers do is drive but they have no idea what we go through everyday like having to back up trailers in tight areas and having to find somewhere to park after 4pm for the night and getting stuck at a weigh station while your DOT clock is still running. That's to name a few!
You got a long way to backing up. I would of got in the first time. It takes years to master it. Good job trying my you got the right attitude for the job.
I'm a yard jockey at FedEx and a delivery driver in NYC. That's good careful backing I don't care how many times u get out and look as long as you don't hit anything. I probably slide the tandems to not have all that alligator tail on the trailer. I would try to slightly jacknife it without tearing up ur extenders just to get it in straight in the hole then come up straight to straight line back
That would have definitely helped tail swing but the problem to this entire back was that the trailers that were in front of the hole I had to back into was too close not allowing me any room to get in front of the trailer.
I use a slightly different technique for backing into a spot like that. I put some money into the palm of my hand and go shake hands with the yard truck driver. That gets it in the hole every time.
If you moved your trailer tandems back about 4 feet the first time you jumped out then backed it up you probably could have backed it on in no problem . Just a tip from an old retired driver. There's a lot to learn about maneuvering these things in tight spots . Including the geometry angels and tail swing .
For all of the time of GOAL, setting up, resetting up and possibly sliding tandems, why not unhook, hook to trailer in the way, move it, drop yours and put the other back in spot(in this case)? Seems about the same amount of time. Or once you see it’s too tight, don’t waste your time, go let them know. Those people couldn’t care less about where they tell you to drop it. Them: “Yeah go ahead and drop it in slot 5” You: “but that says compact cars with a compact car parked in there and some next to it” Them: “it’ll be ok”
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 I can understand that. Great driving though. Taking time out by checking instead of making a mistake, no fail there and nothing “rookie” about that.
Just some tips don't hesitate to move the tandums if that helps and use the steering wheel tilt makes life easier when getting in and out of the truck, also one key is looking at the trailer wheels where they line up as oppose to the trailer itself
It was Absolutly Beautiful at 3:40. Had you pulled up with your wheel to the right instead of resetting to the left, you would have gotten underneath the trailer better and would have had better mirror visibility, all while making room for your blind side
I admire that you got out an look several times just to be sure! That’s the purpose of GOALS to give you that assurance you have cleared your front, blind side n back, good job 👍
I agree. I drove for Millis a couple years, then moved on to food-grade tankers. I think he did real good getting out to look multiple times. Doing so is much better than hitting other trailers. I met a driver once who had been driving 40 years, and after I struggled trying to back into a tight spot for maybe 30 minutes, he says to me ... it doesn't matter how long it takes, it just matters that ya didn't hit anything. Good advice I think, and I have remembered what he said and found it to be true.
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 I just noticed you replied, and I thought of a PS afterthought: I have backed into many tight spots and dark indoor docks where I used a flashlight on the dock just to see a reference light to align with, blindsided the tanker from 15th St into a dock at Country Delite Dairy near downtown Nashville, etc and been at many shippers and receivers around the USA ... and I never encountered any shipper or receiver that was in a hurry for me to back in. I learned that the advice of that old-timer really was true ... not just to avoid hitting things ... but that the time it took to back up really did not matter at all. Like, nobody cared how much time it took, and it was all in my own head. Remembering that guy's advice really helped me to relax and just take my time and maneuver around in tight spaces carefully and relaxed instead of nervous and anxious. I think it was some of the best advice I ever heard ... it really doesn't matter how much time it takes to back into the dock, it just matters that ya don't hit anything. I remember some terrible dock ... maybe in Chicago area ... that was across the street from houses, and the forklift guys told me take as much time as it takes but just dont drive up in that lady's front yard because she is mad and going to sue them because of all the trucks ruining her front yard. It me about 20 or 30 minutes but i finally got in that stupid dock. They did not care that it took that long, they just were glad that i didnt tear up that lady's front yard. So, i guess that was another event that made me think about that older trucker's advice. It really helped me relax and get the job done safely.
The first maneuver was just a matter of patience, it went well. the second one has a better angle for the tractor but the vision for the trailer is worse since it is from the other window and mirror. I always try to get in using my window side, so I can see the trailer when the rear disappears in the mirror.
You did right taking your time and goaling it the second you get confident and skip that step is when you will hit something . You could have gotten it in sight side just barely though . Two ways to deal with the overhang you can just slide the tandems to the back so you don’t have one . Or you can pace out the distance from the rear tire to the end of the trailer . Then pace out two away from the corner of the trailer your trying to back around and then one over and throw down a marker that’s where you back around to line up . Go practice that first though it’s been awhile since I have done it so I might have it backwards . But once you have it practiced it will get parked every time . And you will get a good idea on where to start turning in after you have done it a few times and won’t need the marker anymore .
You could have came in the other way and did a blind side. I used to work Texas regional for Millis. Always slide your tandems all the way back when backing in a tight spot
I appreciate the tip. I did try backing in from both sides, sight side and blind side. Even with the tandems slid all the way to the rear or to the front I still didn't have enough room in front of the spot so I could start getting back under it to start pushing it into the hole without hitting the trailer in the front of my truck.
you could of made it a lot easier to set up further out from the hole, then you could get the trl almost straight in before Going in the hole. you had plenty of room to do this and you wouldn't need any pull ups. Another way to make it easier is to set up from the opposite direction by doing a u turn set up. 👍
I appreciate your comment!, But the problem was the Bramcity trailer was directly in front of the hole that I was trying to get into and was too close and didn't allow me enough room to get straight enough to start pushing the trailer into the hole without hitting it. Also I did try from the other side later in the video and it shows better that the Bramcity trailer was definitely in the way.
I was in a similar position not too long ago like he was the first time when you feel like you’re about to hit the trailer on the driver side. Our instinct is to turn the wheel to the left to avoid it but it only gets us even closer to hitting the trailer on the driver side with the side wall of our trailer .. and the trailer on the other side with the corner of our trailer. There’s a little trick if you get the timing right .. if you turn it hard right, tightening it just a tad bit more, your trailer begins to straighten itself into the hole, and then quickly hard left. It’s a quick motion I would only do this if I’m backing next to trailers though .. not trucks. If I were in this position with trucks next to me.. I’d just walk away and find a new job lol
Fail? that is not a fail. It was a good judgment call and a great video that tells us new drivers that sometimes it is just not going to happen. I started watching this video anticipating a trailer-to-trailer crunch. I am impressed. thanks for the good judgment call
Sometimes you have to just drop it amd let the uard dog put it in. . I do like the fact that you keep getting out and looking. . Not many young drivers will do that. . Hang in there, backing gets easier the more you do it
12:19 I feel you could have pulled coward to the right to get in front of it or snaked it forward to get even with it then straight line back. You had enough room to pull forward. I’m a rookie. But this is the story of my life I suck in backing💕
The camera really doesn't show how small the area actually was. The main problem I had with this back was the trailers that were in front of the hole that I was trying to get into. They were so close that I didn't have room to get the nose of the trailer around to get straight enough to back on in without hitting them. With the tandems slid all the way forward or all the way to the back there just wasn't enough space to get it swung around enough to go in without hitting that trailer in front from either direction.
@Sheketa .. No .. if he pulled forward to the right .. his trailer would would actually swing into the trailer he’s trying to avoid on his driver side.
So I'm a big guy problem with putting trailers in spots like these is trying to hook them up. Now you can pull them out and risk destroying the landing gears, however it's just best to leave space for the trailer and the truck. The work needed to put this trailer in that hole was crazy.
driving since 2004. you are so right in that set up is everything. and get out and look. no shame in multiple pull ups. all that matters is no one or equpment gets hurt.
You had room on your first back. There was plenty of room to work with but either way that's just my opinion. Good job for g.o.a.l and not chancing it if you didn't feel comfortable. Like like others have said, slide those tandems for your advantage. I've had some tough places and have yet to fail to make it in and was actually impressed with the outcome. I look at it like a math problem. I look at it and know that by measurement and all it'll go but it's up to me to make it work. Some places I see and know that there is just no way possible and don't even attempt. Tight is tight but a square block won't fit through a circle.
I appreciate the compliment, thanks. What is really hard to see, because the gopro looks way different than the actual in person view is that there is actually not enough room in the front to allow me to swing my truck around where I needed it to push the trailer on in without hitting the trailer in front of me. Even if I slid the tandems to the rear my overall length stays the same and I still would have hit the trailer in front of me. I know that sliding the tandems changes tail swing and the way the trailer responds when backing but there was just not enough room between the hole I was going for and the trailer that was in front of me to get the proper angle with or without the tandems slid. I have put a trailer in spots, just like you said, that I couldn't believe that I did once it was done. The yard dog himself even said that he has trouble with that spot when a trailer is out front like that and he is way shorter than I am and can turn a lot sharper. I gave that spot my best, and honestly too much of my time lol. I definitely see after watching the video myself where it looks like it would go in with no problem but in person it just wasn't happening lol. I thank you again for your compliment and also thank you for the comment.
In some of these places you don't have enough frontage so you can use the sawbuck solution, Give the spotter truck a saw to spot it for ya. It's cheaper than damage costs. Works for trying to pick one up when the trailers are too close to access the landing gear.
If you will notice, the Bramcity trailer was directly in front of the hole that I was trying to get into and was too close and didn't allow me enough room to get straight enough to start pushing the trailer into the hole without hitting it.
Wise choice pal. 👍
Slide your axles back to eliminate that overhang. That overhang will cause you grief in backing.
@@raymondperkins3546 That's what I was thinking. Would've saved him time getting in and out of the truck to look. If he was gonna leave the axles forward he needed to be far out from the pocket.
Exactly what I would’ve done plus if you look at all of the trailers their tandems are back so the guard shack may have just forgot to tell him to push tandems back
That was impossible! You did what you could. Good job!
So glad I'll be teaming for a few months. 😳
I’m a new trucker. It makes me feel better that I’m not the only one who gets real nervous when backing into a tight spot. My very first “tight” experience, I had several other brother truckers around watching. I tried my best to do a setup but was too anxious to finish. I parked it, got out and held up a $20 bill. They all asked what I was doing and I said I needed help / valet parking 😂. They all got out to help me and I learned a lot. They didn’t even take my cash but I gladly would have paid it. 😃
Lol! Valet parking, I like that! Thanks for sharing your story with us!
We all gotta start somewhere. Practice makes perfect. Always take your time backing, don't worry about what others think.
@@kingcomments If theres no room due to reckless trailer drops do the sake and get outta there. You cant fix the world.
The downside of that is someone is assuming a portion of the liability that could be bad on either side ups and downs to everything🙄
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I've been driving for 37 years. You did the right thing. Safe travels
If you can't get into a spot they want you to drop the trailer at, go find another spot that's easier to get in. Drop the trailer, pick up your empty and move on. The yard dogs will figure it out. Don't burn your clock.
You are absolutely correct!
I have done that , once I went to a Walmart DC on indiana . they told me to drop the trailer around G lot and I noticed they had trailers park crooked and not straight. and one trailer park all the way forward and one all the way back. Just drop it and got my empty yard dog got it
Yep. I don’t fuck around anymore. Nothing to prove at this point.
Yard dogs will do it without breaking a sweat. Big reason they have them.
I would’ve dropped it anywhere and let them deal with it 😂😂
😂
Is that an option? I will need to remember that. I would probably end up spending 2 hours trying to do this.
Bro me 2 I would have dropped that mf in any open spot and dipped 😆
@@kingslender1874 I've done it a few times just remember the spot # and tell em you couldn't get it in without hitting shit and make sure to tell dispatch about it as well
@@ramonanzures9780 Thanks Ramon!
I've been driving 4 years now and there are still days where i seriously struggle in these tight places. Nothing wrong with saying nope to a dangerous situation. I've dropped in different places and let the customer know, and I've also requested a different dock door when they wanna give me the tightest damn door in the place. Most of the time they'll oblige if they can. Other times you just gotta take your time. My mentor told me "it doesn't matter how you get into the hole, as long as you don't hit sh!t!"
Even after nearly 2 years I still don’t handle tight spaces very well. Glad to see I’m not the only one struggling though.
Don't sweat it I have seen many 10yr guys with a lot of bad habits that just haven't bitten yet. Learn to avoid those, far more important than backing jitters.
Sure, you are a person who cares about doing things right, you are not alone, 2014 working for an owner/operator I got sent to drop at a brooklyn NY address, when I finally confirm that it was the correct address, I almost had to go to blows with many people who were pissed at me, why? this address put me in the middle of a street in a hood- no degratting intended, I say that about 15 middle east men came out and believe it, they unloaded me while I was parked in the street in good old Brklyn, NY.
Now THAT is a good, professional truck driver! No shame in getting out and looking. And no shame in admitting you're beaten in an impossible back. Too many steering wheel holders let their egos get the best of them---but not this guy. He's got far more skill and poise with these huge semi trucks than I could ever have. I'd be having a heart attack if I had to put a 53' trailer in that narrow space with that little room. Watching this reminds me why I gave up on driving semi trucks....I'll stick with my 26' box truck, thank you very much!!
But that feeling you get when you put that trailer in the hole is a feeling of accomplishment that can't be mirrored.
It's double the feeling when a male trucker tried and failed, then here I come and bam right in there. 😁
@@denisq6194 wow dude you're a real man... I bet women love talking to you... smh I'd drive circles around you all day bud
I’m a rookie I leave my pride at home when it comes to safety. I always get out and look when ever I feel iffy.
If u ain’t got it, better go somewhere where u do got it
@@salisalsero219 Are you praising my decision---or putting me down for it?? Your motive is quite unclear! Elaborate, please.
Hey man too me that wasn't a failure, that was a tight spot. I felt like that was almost impossible to do with a sleeper. You definitely did a lot better than what I could've done.
I appreciate that
It may seem counter intuitive but in a situation like that first spot you where in - sliding your tandems back so there is little to no overhang will actually make it much easier to get in a hole like that. While it does make your overall length longer, it allows you to start much closer to the hole and begin putting the trailer into hole much sooner because you can be really tight up against the inside corner of your trailers pivot point and there is no overhang to worry about.. Try practicing this way a few times when you have tots of loom to work with. Your initial setup would likely have worked with this method.
Absolutely right I would have got it
30 years driving here and this post is exactly right
Agreed! One of our drop & hook customers had us drop our inbound empty trailers on a row with very little swinging room between trailers in their docks. ONLY way we could drop our trailers between two other trailers was run the tandems all the way to the rear.
I hope you don't mind my comment? I think you probably would have a lot better chance if you pulled your tags on your trailer all the way back! Course I'm still unclear if you would have the clearance to actually get the trailer in there?
Watching this video, I was going to post the same thing that I would’ve moved the tandems all the way to the back, makes it easier in tight spots.
Rule to remember, sometimes it doesn't matter where you drop the trailer.
As a yard driver at a warehouse .. I found it annoying when truckers left their trailers in different spots than they were assigned by security and I had to go looking for them
.. BUUUTT
After trucking a couple years myself .. I would understand them and just let it go
@@PeaceNinja007 I actually just had this situation an hour ago. The F lot where I was supposed to drop my loaded, it was totally full. So I had to drop it where I found my empty.
@@1REALJESUS lol No harm no foul as long as you let staff know .. i guess 🤷♂️ lol
Man I commend you for maximizing your options as far as getting that trailer into that hole. I’ve been driving for over 4 years and knew as soon as you came upon that hole that it was going to be a challenge to say the least. If you continue to use the approach to backing like you did there even as you obtain years of experience, you’ll be all right. Way to go! 👍
You had it at 10:12 but you showed great, professional GOAL judgment in deciding not to continue. Definitely never, ever, blindside if you can't get it in on the driver's side. As you learned it's much worse and increases the likelihood of a whoopsie. Great job nonetheless. Love your no quit spirit though!!
Respect all the same. This is a profession few get into because of stuff like this. Stuff happens and even the pros mess up still. You still attempted it and you get better with every mistake. As long as no life was taken you're doing good 👌
You can't call yourself a rookie, when you deal with your own mistake by learning and fixing it at the same time! Keep up the great work!
Much appreciated!
Brother, we all started somewhere. I felt your pain, man. You tried and that’s what counts, the more you do it, that easier it gets.
you're right it never hurts to get out and look! dont feel embarassed about it. im a new driver and had to do a 90 degree blind side back for the first time. probably goal'd like 10 times but i got it in there perfectly and it felt amazing
That's what it's all about driver, getting it in the spot without tearing up anything. Good job on that blind side 90!
I would’ve dropped it right next to that Ashley Home Furnishings trailer and called it a day 😂
I drove for Millis, great starter company. SE Region 2006-2009, Cartersville GA… You’ll definitely get better, take your time… you definitely had it… you just gotta get comfortable getting the nose closer to get that swing… great job!
Great video one of the best I’ve ever seen. Great explanation, effort, and discussion. No need to damage equipment. Dropping else-ware does not cost anyone anything. Others should take a lesson on how to analyze the situation for a positive outcome.
You are so right I would have put it somewhere else instead of making a mistake of hitting something.
Just a reminder, you can always adjust your tandoms to help with less tail swing,
Awesome advice. He'd move it up inner tandem wd twist on it more quickly.
@@manny2go293 i got a split axes how do u adjust the trailer wheels on the go?
How do I do this in American Truck Simulator?
That's what I was thinking, move tandems
2 week's ago I started learning for my truck license, now I have my first real life driving lessons and this kinde of channels are helpfull thanks every trucker for posting.
I don't see a fail at all, and I love your attitude! You did give it your 3 or 4 best shots, and you didn't wreck the trailer. I'm currently in trucking school and don't have the skills yet to pull that off, but I've been in other industries to know some bullshit when I see it and that's what that yard was. I would give it a shot too, but wouldn't feel bad at all leaving it the same way you did. You've got a new subscriber. Thank you for the video.
Terrific. I bet you slept good that night. .started at Millis myself .in 2003.shout out to Big Dan the training Man.from Akron Ohio
You're awesome. Fails teach more then victories. You taught me. I'm new
I appreciate your comment, thank you!
I watch your video's just for your 1st person view of backing. Hopefully it'll give me an edge once I start the Millis Academy next month. The one on this video looked rough.
It was rough lol. I definitely hope that my videos will help you. Good luck 👍
Sometimes these are the best videos for beginners like myself to make sure I don’t do these mistakes 😂 Thanks
Thanks Bro, I’m in Truck School now & still learning how to back, this very informative. Can’t wait to get out on the road !
This gave me way more anxiety than I was expecting, and I say that as someone who had to do a couple of nightmare backs as a rookie.
I usually say F it and find a easy spot and let them know on the way out. The yard guy can move it.
I'm not about to jeopardize my career to back THEIR freight in a dangerous spot!
Dang! Looks like you almost had it... great job demonstrating your skills and knowledge!
Great video !
What helps me in that situation is to move my tandem’s all the way to the rear . Now you’re pivoting is at the rear with no tail swing to worry about.
You’re a rockstar. Safety is number one. Great video!
As an experience driver I know this pain way to well. The best thing I ever did was get an 2nd android phone that has 5 gig wifi. There's an app call baby cam. Set up the 2nd phone on an tripod.
Both phones connect to each other over wifi
$30 webcam plugged to a power pack does the same thing & cheaper.
That was super tight! You did well regardless and you had enough since to G.O.A.L. and know when to let it go. Better than having to explain to saftey what happened!
Thanks! Yea I definitely don't want to be talking to safety lol
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 I remember when (@ Millis) it was Dan-Dan the safety man (who btw never drove a semi).
I am proud of your patience for trying so hard, sir.
Man I feel your pain on this back up. I have been in those situations before and it gets a bit flustrating.
You going to be a good truck driver if you approach things like you do. Stay calm, evaluate the situation, make a sensible plan. And don't worry about taking as long as needed even if other you feeling pressured by other drivers and kuddos for getting out and looking as many times as needed
I appreciate that!
so this is why they say avoid backing if at all possible and have a spotter to help thank you for showing this video, Im going into classes/training soon
I give this "rookie" kudos for taking his time and putting in a good effort.
I'm sure there are MANY seasoned drivers that couldn't get into the tight slot.
Why did you call out rookie trucker driving fail? That was very professional
Thank you, I appreciate that.
Don't feel bad some parking slips aren't design well at all , but super props for trying and testing all your skills and of course performing GOALs when you need too
Super glad you got out and looked. These new drivers just risk it all lol
Good shit on that backing bro! 💪🏽💯
Thanks
This looks very doable. The pivot point on the trailer is the tandems and with the tandems so far forword and so much trailer behind the tandems you needed to be partially into your turn before you ever got back to those trailers. So you needed to be farther away from those trailers when you started your turn. Your other option would have been to slide your tandems to the back in which case your pivot point would be the back of the trailer where the wheels are and you could have spun it on a dime... which is what you were trying to do but that's impossible with that much trailer behind the tandems unless the space is a lot wider than a trailer width.
I mean looking at the video you had room in front of the truck you could have gotten farther away from it and got partially into the turn it wouldn't have been that difficult.
Yea it was doable...
It was not easy spit. But, I agree with you that sliding tandems back further is a good idea. It happened to me before.
The first CDL test I took I failed for getting out and looking 3 times. It’s nice to see real world shit situations. I didn’t count, but it was more than 3. You get an A for effort.
Same thing happened to me 40 years ago. I hopped out and looked and the guy giving me the road test failed me. He said a real truck driver should know where the trailer is at all times. This was a road test for a job. You would think the company would like having the drivers get out and look.
Had the same scenario @ Chicago old docks yesterday. Took me 30 min with dozens of goals. Ask shipping to for another open dock Lots open. No, they won't give. Said you have to work it. Good job men. I feel your pain.
Watching your videos makes me want to come on. I already spoke with a recruiter, and they said,” we would love to have you with your 2 years driving experience!”
Heck yea! Come on over!
Man, some things are just impossible, great effort! You got skills for sure brother.
Thanks, I appreciate that!
I had anxiety just watching! Great job!
Damn!! My knees hurt just watching you get in and out of your truck. ; ) That was a tight spot
I been in those tight situations before man I know what you are going through here.
That is not a failure. You didn't hit anything and knew your limitations. That is a win.
I appreciate your comment!
I agree. Better Judgement won the day. Much better to be Safe than Sorry.
It's more of an epic win in my view.
First off I want to say that you are an amazing driver good work on keep getting out and look. I had to do this 6 times at Albertsons in Portland. I just want to say you made a good decision 💯
Note: From a retired driver, When there is a Yard Jockey around, Let them do it. Don't EVER put yourself in a "tight" spot. It's your license, your time, your fault if it goes wrong.
I would have liked to slide my tandems all the way back if possible. Less tail swing always helps clear walls even if it does make the trailer less responsive and require a little more room in the front to get it where it needs to go.
Did you not notice he didn't have the space even with tandems up, tandems back would not even work in a tight back like that
Release the tandems and have them slide while you back to reduce the tail swing.
That won't work with these new style air release tandems
I had tight spot today I most defiantly called my old trainer 😂
I had a similar situation a couple of years ago. I had to slide the tandems all the way back in order to make the swing.
You hold your head up you done good trying it anyway you done the right thing brother
You should've slid your tandems all the way to the rear. Then you'd have much less trailer swing. But that was a tough one.
He didn’t have enough space in front of him to do that
People think all truck drivers do is drive but they have no idea what we go through everyday like having to back up trailers in tight areas and having to find somewhere to park after 4pm for the night and getting stuck at a weigh station while your DOT clock is still running. That's to name a few!
You got a long way to backing up. I would of got in the first time. It takes years to master it. Good job trying my you got the right attitude for the job.
I'm a yard jockey at FedEx and a delivery driver in NYC. That's good careful backing I don't care how many times u get out and look as long as you don't hit anything. I probably slide the tandems to not have all that alligator tail on the trailer. I would try to slightly jacknife it without tearing up ur extenders just to get it in straight in the hole then come up straight to straight line back
Is there a yard dog at every place?
@@shinobusensui9395 maybe at a huge distribution center warehouse but not at a small warehouse
Should have slid your tandems to the rear. Then after getting in slid them back.
That would have definitely helped tail swing but the problem to this entire back was that the trailers that were in front of the hole I had to back into was too close not allowing me any room to get in front of the trailer.
Good job brother it be like that some days but def love a good challenge lol
Tough spot for sure!! I’m sure you’ve learned this by now but a good solution to the tail swing problem is to slide the tandems to the rear.
Well the yard dog needs help also lmfao
I use a slightly different technique for backing into a spot like that. I put some money into the palm of my hand and go shake hands with the yard truck driver. That gets it in the hole every time.
A little late to the party on this one but I work for Gordon Food Service 8 years now kind of… and I get out and look all the time like you did.
Lol "if the yard dog said he can't do it I feel better" lol I don't blame you bro
If you moved your trailer tandems back about 4 feet the first time you jumped out then backed it up you probably could have backed it on in no problem . Just a tip from an old retired driver. There's a lot to learn about maneuvering these things in tight spots . Including the geometry angels and tail swing .
Imagine the skills of the yard jockey at that place.
They have yard hostler trucks, it’s 100x easier.
For all of the time of GOAL, setting up, resetting up and possibly sliding tandems, why not unhook, hook to trailer in the way, move it, drop yours and put the other back in spot(in this case)? Seems about the same amount of time. Or once you see it’s too tight, don’t waste your time, go let them know. Those people couldn’t care less about where they tell you to drop it.
Them: “Yeah go ahead and drop it in slot 5”
You: “but that says compact cars with a compact car parked in there and some next to it”
Them: “it’ll be ok”
We aren't allowed to hook to any other trailers, just our own. Too much of a liability.
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 I can understand that. Great driving though. Taking time out by checking instead of making a mistake, no fail there and nothing “rookie” about that.
@@RLsmith-cs3ry I appreciate that!
Just some tips don't hesitate to move the tandums if that helps and use the steering wheel tilt makes life easier when getting in and out of the truck, also one key is looking at the trailer wheels where they line up as oppose to the trailer itself
One of the reasons why I Retired 37 years of that BS was enough.
It was Absolutly Beautiful at 3:40. Had you pulled up with your wheel to the right instead of resetting to the left, you would have gotten underneath the trailer better and would have had better mirror visibility, all while making room for your blind side
I admire that you got out an look several times just to be sure! That’s the purpose of GOALS to give you that assurance you have cleared your front, blind side n back, good job 👍
Thank you, I appreciate that!
I agree. I drove for Millis a couple years, then moved on to food-grade tankers. I think he did real good getting out to look multiple times. Doing so is much better than hitting other trailers. I met a driver once who had been driving 40 years, and after I struggled trying to back into a tight spot for maybe 30 minutes, he says to me ... it doesn't matter how long it takes, it just matters that ya didn't hit anything. Good advice I think, and I have remembered what he said and found it to be true.
@@MW7-Mark well said! And I appreciate your kind comment!
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 I just noticed you replied, and I thought of a PS afterthought: I have backed into many tight spots and dark indoor docks where I used a flashlight on the dock just to see a reference light to align with, blindsided the tanker from 15th St into a dock at Country Delite Dairy near downtown Nashville, etc and been at many shippers and receivers around the USA ... and I never encountered any shipper or receiver that was in a hurry for me to back in. I learned that the advice of that old-timer really was true ... not just to avoid hitting things ... but that the time it took to back up really did not matter at all. Like, nobody cared how much time it took, and it was all in my own head. Remembering that guy's advice really helped me to relax and just take my time and maneuver around in tight spaces carefully and relaxed instead of nervous and anxious. I think it was some of the best advice I ever heard ... it really doesn't matter how much time it takes to back into the dock, it just matters that ya don't hit anything. I remember some terrible dock ... maybe in Chicago area ... that was across the street from houses, and the forklift guys told me take as much time as it takes but just dont drive up in that lady's front yard because she is mad and going to sue them because of all the trucks ruining her front yard. It me about 20 or 30 minutes but i finally got in that stupid dock. They did not care that it took that long, they just were glad that i didnt tear up that lady's front yard. So, i guess that was another event that made me think about that older trucker's advice. It really helped me relax and get the job done safely.
The first maneuver was just a matter of patience, it went well. the second one has a better angle for the tractor but the vision for the trailer is worse since it is from the other window and mirror. I always try to get in using my window side, so I can see the trailer when the rear disappears in the mirror.
Thank you so much for showing this to a rookie
They want me to backup that tight I drop the trailer 😁
Never ever blindside unless its plenty of room and no trailers on either side.
You did right taking your time and goaling it the second you get confident and skip that step is when you will hit something . You could have gotten it in sight side just barely though . Two ways to deal with the overhang you can just slide the tandems to the back so you don’t have one . Or you can pace out the distance from the rear tire to the end of the trailer . Then pace out two away from the corner of the trailer your trying to back around and then one over and throw down a marker that’s where you back around to line up . Go practice that first though it’s been awhile since I have done it so I might have it backwards . But once you have it practiced it will get parked every time . And you will get a good idea on where to start turning in after you have done it a few times and won’t need the marker anymore .
I hate yards like this, especially when other trucks waiting to pass it’s stressful
You could have came in the other way and did a blind side. I used to work Texas regional for Millis. Always slide your tandems all the way back when backing in a tight spot
I appreciate the tip. I did try backing in from both sides, sight side and blind side. Even with the tandems slid all the way to the rear or to the front I still didn't have enough room in front of the spot so I could start getting back under it to start pushing it into the hole without hitting the trailer in the front of my truck.
you could of made it a lot easier to set up further out from the hole, then you could get the trl almost straight in before Going in the hole. you had plenty of room to do this and you wouldn't need any pull ups. Another way to make it easier is to set up from the opposite direction by doing a u turn set up. 👍
I appreciate your comment!, But the problem was the Bramcity trailer was directly in front of the hole that I was trying to get into and was too close and didn't allow me enough room to get straight enough to start pushing the trailer into the hole without hitting it. Also I did try from the other side later in the video and it shows better that the Bramcity trailer was definitely in the way.
I’m a first year driver, but I love the challenge of a tight spot
Looks easy but is not easy at all. Good job man, getting out and looking, safety first.
I was in a similar position not too long ago like he was the first time when you feel like you’re about to hit the trailer on the driver side.
Our instinct is to turn the wheel to the left to avoid it but it only gets us even closer to hitting the trailer on the driver side with the side wall of our trailer .. and the trailer on the other side with the corner of our trailer.
There’s a little trick if you get the timing right .. if you turn it hard right, tightening it just a tad bit more, your trailer begins to straighten itself into the hole, and then quickly hard left. It’s a quick motion
I would only do this if I’m backing next to trailers though .. not trucks.
If I were in this position with trucks next to me.. I’d just walk away and find a new job lol
Fail? that is not a fail. It was a good judgment call and a great video that tells us new drivers that sometimes it is just not going to happen. I started watching this video anticipating a trailer-to-trailer crunch. I am impressed. thanks for the good judgment call
Thank you I appreciate the comment
@@TwoWheelTrucker1 and no stress in your voice. Nice ! This is exactly what new drivers need to hear.
That was an impossible spot bro, you did 👉 right
Sometimes you have to just drop it amd let the uard dog put it in. . I do like the fact that you keep getting out and looking. . Not many young drivers will do that. . Hang in there, backing gets easier the more you do it
If you are not sure, drop that trailer and get the yard dog to get it.
12:19 I feel you could have pulled coward to the right to get in front of it or snaked it forward to get even with it then straight line back. You had enough room to pull forward. I’m a rookie. But this is the story of my life I suck in backing💕
The camera really doesn't show how small the area actually was. The main problem I had with this back was the trailers that were in front of the hole that I was trying to get into. They were so close that I didn't have room to get the nose of the trailer around to get straight enough to back on in without hitting them. With the tandems slid all the way forward or all the way to the back there just wasn't enough space to get it swung around enough to go in without hitting that trailer in front from either direction.
@Sheketa .. No .. if he pulled forward to the right .. his trailer would would actually swing into the trailer he’s trying to avoid on his driver side.
Me too
Good job you got more patience than I do
So I'm a big guy problem with putting trailers in spots like these is trying to hook them up. Now you can pull them out and risk destroying the landing gears, however it's just best to leave space for the trailer and the truck. The work needed to put this trailer in that hole was crazy.
driving since 2004. you are so right in that set up is everything. and get out and look. no shame in multiple pull ups. all that matters is no one or equpment gets hurt.
You had room on your first back. There was plenty of room to work with but either way that's just my opinion. Good job for g.o.a.l and not chancing it if you didn't feel comfortable. Like like others have said, slide those tandems for your advantage. I've had some tough places and have yet to fail to make it in and was actually impressed with the outcome. I look at it like a math problem. I look at it and know that by measurement and all it'll go but it's up to me to make it work. Some places I see and know that there is just no way possible and don't even attempt. Tight is tight but a square block won't fit through a circle.
I appreciate the compliment, thanks. What is really hard to see, because the gopro looks way different than the actual in person view is that there is actually not enough room in the front to allow me to swing my truck around where I needed it to push the trailer on in without hitting the trailer in front of me. Even if I slid the tandems to the rear my overall length stays the same and I still would have hit the trailer in front of me. I know that sliding the tandems changes tail swing and the way the trailer responds when backing but there was just not enough room between the hole I was going for and the trailer that was in front of me to get the proper angle with or without the tandems slid. I have put a trailer in spots, just like you said, that I couldn't believe that I did once it was done. The yard dog himself even said that he has trouble with that spot when a trailer is out front like that and he is way shorter than I am and can turn a lot sharper. I gave that spot my best, and honestly too much of my time lol. I definitely see after watching the video myself where it looks like it would go in with no problem but in person it just wasn't happening lol. I thank you again for your compliment and also thank you for the comment.
That shit wasn’t going in there. I don’t know what type of he-man trucker would be able to finagle that
@@doubledown8643 down in los angeles they'll just ram it in there, knock the trailers around take a 1/4 inch of steel off.
drop it anywhere let the Yard jockey get the thing when they are ready for it ,
Your doing good. The arc of the trailor tandems is the key. Sometimes your inches from the other trailor. Your only to clise when you hit .
In some of these places you don't have enough frontage so you can use the sawbuck solution, Give the spotter truck a saw to spot it for ya. It's cheaper than damage costs. Works for trying to pick one up when the trailers are too close to access the landing gear.