This was amazing I have had a fear even with 7 months otr but my backing was not my strongest point. I been offered a job to yard dog for 4 month since coming off the road and was just overwhelmed with fear but watching your video you have give me such great keypoints thanks sooooo much. I'm going to try out for the job let you know how it goes. Thanks again.
It’s okay to be nervous. The veterans will always give you some hassle but it usually comes from a good place. You’ll get better, they know you’ll get better. My old place I remember i had a trucker try and give me an actual hard time as the newbie. My senior coworkers did NOT like seeing that. They came and defended me. There’s a saying, “he’s our new guy and we get to pick on him. But if anyone else messes with our new guy, we mess them up”. So chin up and listen to tips and tricks!
I love how you give a tug test before you pull off. I do too! I've seen too many trailers hit the ground from drivers getting comfortable. I love doing this. Awesome video!!
Bro i literally have an interview tomorrow for an equipment operator yard mule and this video helped me out in learning the tractor and reversing the trailer. Thanks man ima see how this go, i appreciate this video.
Thank you so much for this video. I got a job offer and your video was the first in my search results, this has given me the confidence to try the position out🙏🏾🙏🏾
Awesome great to hear that Good luck on your drive test A Tip: when backing up you turn your steering wheel left your trailer goes right, you turn the steering wheel right your trailer goes Left. 😁🤙🏼
That's awesome Congratulations!! brotha!!😁 🤙🏼 Just remember these tips always keep them Low and slow and never forget your Tug test on every single trailer. Tie down those trailer doors and you gonna have a bright future. Congrats to you again brotha! 💪🏼
Thanks for sharing , very detailed and well done video! recieved a promotion from package handler to switcher, at Fed Ex and yes the tug test is really spot on
Great!! to hear brother! and congratulations! on your new position. Glad this video was of some help to advance you in your career. Be safe out there on the field take it low and slow as you progress. Also Make sure to give the video a like and subscribe. more videos will be up soon with some more tips. 💪
Thanks for the video bro. I got this email last minute for a job offer at UPS but I have to do a road test on site for today 😅. Your video definitely gave me a boost of confidence. Wish me luck
Not only a great informative video but, also appreciate you answering people's questions in the comments as well. Very helpful. Hoping to make a career change. I live in the bay area area cali. See this position offered often. $30/hr.
Not 2min into this and I’m already chomping at the bit to get back into a yard dog. Left and drive straight flatbed now OTR for a plumbing wholesaler and it drives me nuts. People on the road are crazy and customers (contractors) want their materials asap but won’t send equipment to unload me or anyone to direct me as to where they want it unloaded. I use my best judgement and they still complain xD. I’m gonna apply for 2 yard positions today because they pay more than where i’m at too!
Yeah otr is cool but being local has it's good sides to only way I would get back otr would be with my own semi truck to get the full pay out of those loads. That's my goal.
Wow. Excellent bro .. fantastic. Thanks so much. I got my class A in LA and going for FedEx ground switcher interview this week. Better than OTR in my opinion with fukn traffic 😀
Wow, the company I did this for didn't have that search light. They also only had the red brake hose (for the parking brake), so when moving the trailer, you had very limited braking. Also, I don't remember because it's been a while, but I don't think they had the electric wire (for the trailer's lights) either.
That spotlight do be nice. Could always bring a little Search light from home if you’re doing night shifts. Make sure you put a tracking device and chain it to your leg tho xD
Shit I'm starting a yard goat position in about 8 hours, looks laid back man. Thanks for the confidence boost to I was having some doubts bout backing them trailers haha aint never backed up a trailer that big before.
Congrats brother you got it just take it slow if you can't see what's behind that trailer best bet is to get out and look. And always do a tug test with every single trailer. After you get it down it's becomes a natural instinct.
I knew enough to back and smack docks but hell who doesn't. This video just got me a job I was overqualified for and unexperienced for. Thanks for making this video, getting the collar off and going back to doing something that matters. Careful with that rocket bike please, put some track time in and find a group before you make a mess of yourself on it. Scratch 2 for me, it's an expensive hobby them supers cost you insurance or medical.
Great to hear brotha! congrats on the job.💪 You'll do great 👍💯 and yeah took some courses definitely worth it. Lol and yeah definitely an expensive hobby 😅 but worth every penny. You be safe on your bike to brotha and keep on trucking!
Try two trailer spots with a day cab or spotter and three trailers with a sleeper 90 degrees out and then 45 degrees always lands your trailer where you want to place it.
Did a good job,I don't drive a switcher and watched the damn vid hahaha, informative and I could say 100% I could operate from your video, that would be a great job to learn how to back trailer's if you want to otr.
I've been in the business for 27 years and I also was a truck driver for 9 of those years, now I'm the team lead and trainer at FedEx in Denver and this is a video I would love to show my trainees because it's simple and you cover a lot. What kind of unit is that? Looks like a newer Tico or Kalmar Ottawa? Nice video.
Thank you appreciate the feed back 🙏🏼 and yes it's a new unit Ottawa T2 and feel free to use the content. it's for educational purposes to help the new generation of drivers. appreciate the views and likes 👍🏼
Great 👍 video out of many, possibly starting jb hunt in a week or so just waiting for background checks to clear. Is this a fast paced job where you always bust your ass?
That's good congratulations 👍and sometimes it's busy sometimes I sit and watch some Netflix for 4 or 5 hours but it depends on the site as well some sites tend to be more busy than other sites.
I've been a spotter for Continental express for 2 and a half years we spot at nestle and the cold storage facilities we have that same ottowa you're drivin 22 a hour is pretty good pay
Well it depends once your in the yard you start seeing how the warehouse runs. Sometimes the trailers are needed asap on the doors so they can have the workers inside start working on them. I usually communicate with the shipping and receiving managers and they'll tell me how many people they have working on the docks Wich kinda gives me an insight of what trailers are a priority and Wich ones aren't. Also site's where they have ppl unloading trailers with forklifts are way more busy then site's that have ppl unload them by hand and pallet jacks. For tips I would say take it at a steady pace don't rush practice your backing skills to perfection. If you can't see what's behind you get out of your truck and go look to see if it's clear to continue backing up. Ride with the trailer only 4 inches off the ground never ride with it high because the center of gravity can cause you to roll over. Tie down your trailer doors always to prevent breaking down the dock doors. And always use the red safety harness to hold the trailer doors incase a load is leaned against the door that is to prevent an injury from a heavy load crushing you. And sometimes saves you from having to pick up all the boxes off the ground. And never jack knife a container always back it up at a 45 degree angle to prevent a rollover. Dry vans are much safer. Those jb hunts and emhu containers are much more of a risk. Besides that practice your skills and consider getting your CDL A if you don't already have it. Stay opened mind and be ready to learn there is always something new to master.
Also remember to not set your truck brake till AFTER lifting the trailer (with trailer air unhooked) this lets the truck roll freely as it lifts the trailer, it will naturally roll back up under the trailer as it lifts. If you leave the brakes on the truck and lift, it will drag the tires across the ground.
Well reason I do that I do a tug test and lift at the same time I don't try to tug it to the point you leave a shaved spot on your trailer tires either. Plus I check the 5th wheel to assure I'm latched. Safety checks are never enough especially when you have a loaded trailer. Once that bad boy goes down it's game over. 😬😫
@@olafg19 pulling the trailer on the tug test is fine. I was referring to leaving the truck brakes on while lifting haha. Everything in your video is spot on. Just interviewed for my first yard jockey job today. Everything went well. Had me move a trailer out in the scrap yard. New capacity truck as opposed to the 1989 ottowa i drove 2 years ago but i did good. Didn’t hit anything and backed it in straight so I’m looking forward to the job.
You will be fine 3 spaces 90 degree and the 45 degrees and your trailer should be in position of your space. Always adjust if needed. Good luck you got this in the bag 🤙🏼
Depending on what company you work for. I did this for FedEx ground for 7 yrs, when I first applied for the switcher job they asked me for my license to view my driving record.
@@edgardovilla199 I work in an train yard, regular driving license is all that is required for us. Starting out was challenging but by about the second month, I welcome tight parking spaces.
No problem and yes if yo have your CDL and you can back up a trailer two to three times into a space and manouver it safely you have a chance at getting hired. You won't know unless you try. 😁🤙🏼
Not that I'm aware of some companys only require a class c to drive the spotter, but as for the company I'm with I came in with a class A already and they require it because they also do shuttles over the road with day cab tractors. But it depends on the company if they provide training for your class A you should ask before you waste your time.
Good luck I've been doing it for 14 years through the rain the snow the very warm tarmac did I mention that our company switchers do not have air conditioning That's a nice featureThe job is not for everybody because you're extremely busy or not doing much and do not let yourself get behind on trailer moves because it is harder to make up the time But if you keep right on top of it you'll do okay Don't get frustrated in the first month because trust me one day it'll all click and you go from rookie to just about an expert and a heartbeat
I took me 17 days to get my CDL with cr england the company I work for does yard goat and day cab shuttles CDL is required but not needed if your only going to do yard goat. Lazer spot is my company.
Sometimes when it's busy but you hang out in the truck and just wait for them to call you to move trailers or they just input them in the computer system as well depends on the site your at. But it's pretty steady.
@@johnk4396 I believe you sometimes they'll send me to different sites and average is around 65 trailer moves in a 12 hour shift. But my main yard we usually do like30 to 40 trailers a day. Sometimes it goes as low as 4 moves a day.
So I’m being trained to drive one of these......and I’m having a hard time reversing the trailers into their parking spots, my trainer says I hold my lefts and rights too long, so the move you just did going up 3 spaces from the assigned spot you parked in, would be wrong to my trainer, he would tell me to go past 1 spot,.....so I guess what I’m trying to ask is, ...do you find that it makes it easier to move up 3 spaces instead of 1??..... Also, is it true that you should never make U-turns on the right side ONLY on the left???......and have you moved a pup trailer before? If so, what tips do you have for those?.....thanks in advance! Hope to hear from you soon!
That's good brother well your trainer is probably trying to show you his method of parking the trailers. But I do know everyone has different ways to doing it so if I where you I would grasp his teachings. And later when you are by your self you can practice your own methods and see if this 3 space helps out better. to me it's simple and easy but it all depends on the driver as well. And the yard you are working in has alot to do with how many trailers you move up some yards are smaller than others but that is when you adjust to it.
Also if it's a pup trailer I move up 1 yard spot then 90 degree to 45 and I back up but if it's a 53 foot trailer dry van or reefer I skip 3 spots counting after the location your putting your trailer in.
Best tip for u turns I say take them low and slow it really doesn't matter Wich way you go left or right. it will take you the same way but always be cautious of your tail swing.
On the yard truck I drive, I found that right-hand u-turns stretch the hoses too much since they are strung from the right side of the tractor to the left side of the trailer. A normal road tractor has the lines attached to the left side of the tractor. I didn't know this at first, and had the electrical cord pop out of the tractor connector. It flew around the front of the trailer and wound around the fifth wheel plate. I didn't know this happened until I went to drop the trailer and couldn't find the cord! The electrical cord was ok, just a little greasy from contact with the bottom of the trailer.
Make sure to check out my other videos to some more pointers for the ones that are new to the industry and the ones that need just a cool refresher🥶 Appreciate the Love and feedback hit the subscribe button and click on the bell so you know when new videos are posted. 😁🤙🏼
That all depends what kinda drive a person has if your active and like to keep busy and like being outside with all types of weather. Then yeah it's a good job. But if you dislike any of that then it might not be good. It's been good to me tho. beats being inside a warehouse loading the trailers for 4 years ++
@@Maroboyy_2Ss well if your asking from the first position of your destination spot you skip 3 trailer spots not counting the location space. Then you go right then left then you back up and steer infront of your trailer as your backing up and adjust as needed of course.
Over 100lbs of pressure on the tractor breaks and the trailer breaks it won't go anywhere trust me. But yes you are supposed to put it on Neutral good eye 👁️ lol
@@olafg19 I am a part department manager. Brakes can go at any moment. Better safe then sorry. If the trailer brakes are not adjusted correctly the spring brakes do not do anything.
Yes I agree but that would really have to be a messed up / Final destination situation for your trailer and tractor breaks to both go out at the same time. As an operator that does a proper pre trip on the equipment I rest assured that the Tractor was not going anywhere those breaks pads where new and beefed up. If they where thin and worn then yeah I would have something to worry about 😳 but you are still correct always best to put it on Neutral 100% agree👍🏼
@@deshawnwilliams9932 Yeah I believe you but the company I work for requires you to have a CDL because they also have day cabs and they sometimes require shuttle Transfers to different sites.
i com america 10 year make al moneys driv truck all hour wit son 13 no lisense what so eve polica say i no driv i say i driv yard truck they ok now . good i watch you you good school i go work
I hate those ottowa t2s. Way to short. I'm in a 2019 autocar xspotter. And they really make y'all use the light cord and service brakes? That sucks lol
I actually use a 2017 T2 and I like it cab is very spacious unlike those older models and steps on both sides are very convenient👍. I don't understand why you wouldn't want to use your service breaks?🤔 When you got 40,000 to 70,000 lbs riding behind you at 10 to 15 MPH and a random tractor break failure occurs your gonna wish that service line was connected. Could turn the truck into a nice fluffed pancake 🥞 try it out you feel the difference when all those breaks go into effect. Those extra 2 second's to put that line on could be worth it. As for the light cord I work at night it's best to put it on, don't want to be liable for someone saying they didn't see me stopping cause my light cord was disconnected. Or they didn't see a huge box coming there way. America the land of the lawsuits. always have to watch your 6.
Oh and forgot to mention the life on the tractor brakes you would extend if you use that service line just a tip I learned the same way in this industry you never stop learning new things. you just have to be opened minded to new ideas.
I see your point on the service brakes but my company won't let us use them and they have us go 25 instead of your speed. It's not my truck so I can't make that call lol.
@@leonardbecker7794 lol 🤣 well just remember dispatchers and managers don't drive. And from the sound of it don't seem like they know much about air breaks And if you were to ever get caught in an accident that I hope you don't. you then just become another number to them. And they move on to the next guy. So for your safety and jobs sake I would just throw that one extra line on. But hey I'm not a safety advisor i don't care what you do. These are just driver tips. 😎
Yeah. I've had 2 accidents, never with air brakes. One was a near flip and the other was someone who went behind me. I've never had an issue with stopping although where I work is very open.
Well I don't think that's going to be in my life time hopefully 😳lol but I have been seeing alot of the electric semis slowly coming out but automated not just yet. I know they are in the progress but I think they have alot to work on before getting them adopted.
@@olafg19 Yeah. There's a thought experiment called the Trolley Conundrum. Which could explain the reluctance of TuSimple, Embark, and even Plus Drive to claim they're ready for production.
This was amazing I have had a fear even with 7 months otr but my backing was not my strongest point. I been offered a job to yard dog for 4 month since coming off the road and was just overwhelmed with fear but watching your video you have give me such great keypoints thanks sooooo much. I'm going to try out for the job let you know how it goes. Thanks again.
Great point Tamiko took me over a year before the fear thing was gone.
It’s okay to be nervous. The veterans will always give you some hassle but it usually comes from a good place. You’ll get better, they know you’ll get better. My old place I remember i had a trucker try and give me an actual hard time as the newbie. My senior coworkers did NOT like seeing that. They came and defended me.
There’s a saying, “he’s our new guy and we get to pick on him. But if anyone else messes with our new guy, we mess them up”. So chin up and listen to tips and tricks!
Hello, Did you get the job? i have an interview this week for a yard hostler and im a little nervous too!
Yes but I ended up staying in the nursing position since everything changed.
I'm studying for my CDL permit now. Yard driver is my goal. Hope all went well for you.
I love how you give a tug test before you pull off. I do too! I've seen too many trailers hit the ground from drivers getting comfortable. I love doing this. Awesome video!!
Yes I agree I have made tug testing a habit. To many accidents with such a preventive measure.
Bro i literally have an interview tomorrow for an equipment operator yard mule and this video helped me out in learning the tractor and reversing the trailer. Thanks man ima see how this go, i appreciate this video.
Awesome great to hear where you able to get the position?
This video got my husband into a job he never did before. Thanks.
Glad I can be of some help best of luck to you and your husband 😁
@@olafg19 he has been there a week. He uses your 3 spaces ahead to turn around or back up technique. They love his driving. Thanks.
@@JMA973 that's great I will post some more moves on here soon make sure to subscribe to my channel for more content😁👍
I watched this video 2 days before I started in a yard dog back in January. 5 months in and I love it! Thanks for the content.
That's awesome brother glad you liked it. You be safe moving those trailer's and stay tuned more videos are coming soon.👍
Lmaooo me too bro i start this week as well had no clue what i was getting into 🤣
@@edgardoherrera4427 congrats brother you got it man it gets easier once you start doing it for a few weeks.
1 year in still going strong! Came back to this video to send to a guy I will be training for when I take days off. Thanks again!
@@Aust-kn3vo Eyyy thank you brotha appreciate your feedback Keep up the work 😁🤙🏼
Thank you so much for this video. I got a job offer and your video was the first in my search results, this has given me the confidence to try the position out🙏🏾🙏🏾
Awesome great to hear that Good luck on your drive test
A Tip: when backing up you turn your steering wheel left your trailer goes right, you turn the steering wheel right your trailer goes Left. 😁🤙🏼
I just got hire today at the port by watching your videos!!! Thanks man 🤞🏼🤞🏼 I backed up like a pro s/o you!
That's awesome Congratulations!! brotha!!😁 🤙🏼 Just remember these tips always keep them Low and slow and never forget your Tug test on every single trailer. Tie down those trailer doors and you gonna have a bright future. Congrats to you again brotha! 💪🏼
Thanks for sharing , very detailed and well done video! recieved a promotion from package handler to switcher, at Fed Ex and yes the tug test is really spot on
Great!! to hear brother! and congratulations! on your new position. Glad this video was of some help to advance you in your career. Be safe out there on the field take it low and slow as you progress. Also Make sure to give the video a like and subscribe. more videos will be up soon with some more tips. 💪
Thanks! I’ve been driving for about a month. Helps for nice refresher
Thank you, man.
Really comprehensive clip, with heaps of practical advice, along with the major DOs and DON"Ts.
Cheers.
Thanks for the video bro. I got this email last minute for a job offer at UPS but I have to do a road test on site for today 😅. Your video definitely gave me a boost of confidence. Wish me luck
No problem! Glad it can help You got this brother ✊ comment back your results.
Great too see how shunting is done over seas keep up the good work 👍🏻
Yard dogs and goats their language is so different..and always sounds offensive
Congratulations 👏👏 You are awesome on your job
Not only a great informative video but, also appreciate you answering people's questions in the comments as well. Very helpful. Hoping to make a career change. I live in the bay area area cali. See this position offered often. $30/hr.
Finally, someone that goes in depth with it lol good vid bro and thanks for sharing. 👍 Subscribed.
Thanks for sharing your tips. Great video!
Very nicely explained in an excellent manner. Thanks brother, Merry Christmas !
Thank you and Merry Christmas to you to 🎄⛄
Thanks for the video... been binging on these videos since im training at a busy railyard in los angeles
No problem simple stuff you got it do it for a while and backing up trailers becomes a habit.
I will start yard dog back..tomorrow these video is awesome 👌
Not 2min into this and I’m already chomping at the bit to get back into a yard dog. Left and drive straight flatbed now OTR for a plumbing wholesaler and it drives me nuts. People on the road are crazy and customers (contractors) want their materials asap but won’t send equipment to unload me or anyone to direct me as to where they want it unloaded. I use my best judgement and they still complain xD. I’m gonna apply for 2 yard positions today because they pay more than where i’m at too!
Yeah otr is cool but being local has it's good sides to only way I would get back otr would be with my own semi truck to get the full pay out of those loads. That's my goal.
Blue is for service and red it’s only for emergency brakes,
This video was so helpful thank you so much!!!
You make it look easy, but I’m sure it’s more difficult then how it looks.
Thank you for the video. I’m learning to move trailer. 👍
No problem let me know if you need any help and I will post more videos on what to do.
Wow. Excellent bro .. fantastic. Thanks so much. I got my class A in LA and going for FedEx ground switcher interview this week. Better than OTR in my opinion with fukn traffic 😀
Yeah it's a cool job and definitely saves the traffic headaches. Good pay as well.
Great video have interview tomorrow for a yard jock position watching this video definitely will help me out knowledge wise thanx
@@rodneywensell7187 Thanks brother good luck on the interview. You got it in the bag 💰👍
Wow excellent video, and hints for drivers..
Thank you
Thank you new cdl permit and starting a yard switcher job. Love this video. Bosslady
Thanks! Thinking about applying for a job like this. Been out of work for years. Was a computer programmer for many years.
You’re a great teacher!
🕵Appreciate ya, great details with the instructions...🤛💯
Wow, the company I did this for didn't have that search light. They also only had the red brake hose (for the parking brake), so when moving the trailer, you had very limited braking. Also, I don't remember because it's been a while, but I don't think they had the electric wire (for the trailer's lights) either.
Pretty sure the blue air lines are on the DOT models that go on public roadways and that spotlight is pretty sweet.
That spotlight do be nice. Could always bring a little Search light from home if you’re doing night shifts. Make sure you put a tracking device and chain it to your leg tho xD
When pulling heavy loads I always connect both air lines
Thanks man .. been looking for a video like this along time on TH-cam🤝🤝🤝
No problem glad I can be of some help. Make sure to subscribe to the channel and give the video a thumbs up 👍
Shit I'm starting a yard goat position in about 8 hours, looks laid back man. Thanks for the confidence boost to I was having some doubts bout backing them trailers haha aint never backed up a trailer that big before.
Congrats brother you got it just take it slow if you can't see what's behind that trailer best bet is to get out and look. And always do a tug test with every single trailer. After you get it down it's becomes a natural instinct.
Justt started doing this for CN intermodal, it's a good job.
Parking takes a little bit to get use to.
Nice congrats and once you get the hang of it you will be doing it like a pro give it a week or two of practice and you will master it.
@@olafg19 I found it easier with a container on my chassis as I knew when I was straight.
@@olafg19 Also been playing a bit of american truck simulator, not sure how much it actually help me irl- we will see.
I knew enough to back and smack docks but hell who doesn't. This video just got me a job I was overqualified for and unexperienced for. Thanks for making this video, getting the collar off and going back to doing something that matters. Careful with that rocket bike please, put some track time in and find a group before you make a mess of yourself on it. Scratch 2 for me, it's an expensive hobby them supers cost you insurance or medical.
Great to hear brotha! congrats on the job.💪 You'll do great 👍💯 and yeah took some courses definitely worth it. Lol and yeah definitely an expensive hobby 😅 but worth every penny. You be safe on your bike to brotha and keep on trucking!
Great video bro! Always wondered how you y’all did it behind the scenes
Nice video. I was thinking about applying for this type of work :)
Thank you and yeah you should consider it.
Good teaching
Wonderful explanation g🤝🦾
Thank you 🤝
backing up is killing but i got this
Try two trailer spots with a day cab or spotter and three trailers with a sleeper 90 degrees out and then 45 degrees always lands your trailer where you want to place it.
I’m sitting inside a Ottawa right now as I watch this lol.
Nice lol 😁👍 I do the same sometimes to just watch truck driver videos when I have time. At least I know I'm not the only one now 😂
Same😆😆😆
Did a good job,I don't drive a switcher and watched the damn vid hahaha, informative and I could say 100% I could operate from your video, that would be a great job to learn how to back trailer's if you want to otr.
Thank you brotha hey well you learned something new and who knows you might just pick up a part time for some extra cash 😁🤙🏼💰
I've been in the business for 27 years and I also was a truck driver for 9 of those years, now I'm the team lead and trainer at FedEx in Denver and this is a video I would love to show my trainees because it's simple and you cover a lot. What kind of unit is that? Looks like a newer Tico or Kalmar Ottawa?
Nice video.
Thank you appreciate the feed back 🙏🏼 and yes it's a new unit Ottawa T2 and feel free to use the content. it's for educational purposes to help the new generation of drivers. appreciate the views and likes 👍🏼
This guy is Amazing!
Thank you brother 😁👍
Good 👍 jobs tanks man
hey olaf good shit
ty brother
No problem brother 👍
OG- nice tutorial. very helpful. what city/state are you in
I'm in California
So the switch trucks are automatics … that’s what up
I wish i had the room you have, im a Ramp Area Driver (Yard Mule) for FedEx Express and room is tight.
Just take it slow and tight it only makes you better.
Red is emergency, blue is service
Yeah I could have been more specific 😂 I was just in the moment lol I'll remember to add that next time. 👍
AWESOME
Great 👍 video out of many, possibly starting jb hunt in a week or so just waiting for background checks to clear. Is this a fast paced job where you always bust your ass?
That's good congratulations 👍and sometimes it's busy sometimes I sit and watch some Netflix for 4 or 5 hours but it depends on the site as well some sites tend to be more busy than other sites.
I've been a spotter for Continental express for 2 and a half years we spot at nestle and the cold storage facilities we have that same ottowa you're drivin 22 a hour is pretty good pay
Nice that's good brother the pay is good as well 👍
@@olafg19 right on man i love my job my boss only works 4 hours a day and nobody else there is over me also like not bein stuck inside all shift
I got a question do they ever rush you to move trailers ? I’m interested in becoming a yard goat any tips for a newbie going in with no experience?
Well it depends once your in the yard you start seeing how the warehouse runs. Sometimes the trailers are needed asap on the doors so they can have the workers inside start working on them. I usually communicate with the shipping and receiving managers and they'll tell me how many people they have working on the docks Wich kinda gives me an insight of what trailers are a priority and Wich ones aren't. Also site's where they have ppl unloading trailers with forklifts are way more busy then site's that have ppl unload them by hand and pallet jacks.
For tips I would say take it at a steady pace don't rush practice your backing skills to perfection. If you can't see what's behind you get out of your truck and go look to see if it's clear to continue backing up. Ride with the trailer only 4 inches off the ground never ride with it high because the center of gravity can cause you to roll over. Tie down your trailer doors always to prevent breaking down the dock doors. And always use the red safety harness to hold the trailer doors incase a load is leaned against the door that is to prevent an injury from a heavy load crushing you. And sometimes saves you from having to pick up all the boxes off the ground. And never jack knife a container always back it up at a 45 degree angle to prevent a rollover.
Dry vans are much safer. Those jb hunts and emhu containers are much more of a risk.
Besides that practice your skills and consider getting your CDL A if you don't already have it. Stay opened mind and be ready to learn there is always something new to master.
At 6:16 did you leave it in gear when exiting the cab? Why not put in neutral?
How did you put it in drive?
Also remember to not set your truck brake till AFTER lifting the trailer (with trailer air unhooked) this lets the truck roll freely as it lifts the trailer, it will naturally roll back up under the trailer as it lifts. If you leave the brakes on the truck and lift, it will drag the tires across the ground.
Well reason I do that I do a tug test and lift at the same time I don't try to tug it to the point you leave a shaved spot on your trailer tires either. Plus I check the 5th wheel to assure I'm latched. Safety checks are never enough especially when you have a loaded trailer. Once that bad boy goes down it's game over. 😬😫
@@olafg19 pulling the trailer on the tug test is fine. I was referring to leaving the truck brakes on while lifting haha. Everything in your video is spot on. Just interviewed for my first yard jockey job today. Everything went well. Had me move a trailer out in the scrap yard. New capacity truck as opposed to the 1989 ottowa i drove 2 years ago but i did good. Didn’t hit anything and backed it in straight so I’m looking forward to the job.
@@StrikerV3 oh ok got you! and right on brother happy for you congratulations on the new job be safe and keep up the good work😁✊
I was volun-told at our plant I need to be a shag driver. I start training for it in 4 hours haha. Nervous since I never backed up 53 feet of trailer.
You will be fine 3 spaces 90 degree and the 45 degrees and your trailer should be in position of your space. Always adjust if needed. Good luck you got this in the bag 🤙🏼
Great informative video! Do you need a cdl license to drive a yard tractor?
No.
Depending on what company you work for. I did this for FedEx ground for 7 yrs, when I first applied for the switcher job they asked me for my license to view my driving record.
@@edgardovilla199 I work in an train yard, regular driving license is all that is required for us. Starting out was challenging but by about the second month, I welcome tight parking spaces.
Thank you sir, do they hire if someone has cdl class A without experience
No problem and yes if yo have your CDL and you can back up a trailer two to three times into a space and manouver it safely you have a chance at getting hired. You won't know unless you try. 😁🤙🏼
I have an interview soon for this. I assume they train for CDL A? Thanks
Not that I'm aware of some companys only require a class c to drive the spotter, but as for the company I'm with I came in with a class A already and they require it because they also do shuttles over the road with day cab tractors. But it depends on the company if they provide training for your class A you should ask before you waste your time.
Good luck I've been doing it for 14 years through the rain the snow the very warm tarmac did I mention that our company switchers do not have air conditioning That's a nice featureThe job is not for everybody because you're extremely busy or not doing much and do not let yourself get behind on trailer moves because it is harder to make up the time But if you keep right on top of it you'll do okay Don't get frustrated in the first month because trust me one day it'll all click and you go from rookie to just about an expert and a heartbeat
You forgot to put Switcher in neutral
How long it’s taking you to do the yard goat and having your Cdl license?
I took me 17 days to get my CDL with cr england the company I work for does yard goat and day cab shuttles CDL is required but not needed if your only going to do yard goat. Lazer spot is my company.
You do this for your whole job shift? I might apply for a position at mclane foods.
Sometimes when it's busy but you hang out in the truck and just wait for them to call you to move trailers or they just input them in the computer system as well depends on the site your at. But it's pretty steady.
@@johnk4396 I believe you sometimes they'll send me to different sites and average is around 65 trailer moves in a 12 hour shift. But my main yard we usually do like30 to 40 trailers a day. Sometimes it goes as low as 4 moves a day.
Da Bomb ❣️
So I’m being trained to drive one of these......and I’m having a hard time reversing the trailers into their parking spots, my trainer says I hold my lefts and rights too long, so the move you just did going up 3 spaces from the assigned spot you parked in, would be wrong to my trainer, he would tell me to go past 1 spot,.....so I guess what I’m trying to ask is, ...do you find that it makes it easier to move up 3 spaces instead of 1??.....
Also, is it true that you should never make U-turns on the right side ONLY on the left???......and have you moved a pup trailer before? If so, what tips do you have for those?.....thanks in advance! Hope to hear from you soon!
That's good brother well your trainer is probably trying to show you his method of parking the trailers. But I do know everyone has different ways to doing it so if I where you I would grasp his teachings. And later when you are by your self you can practice your own methods and see if this 3 space helps out better. to me it's simple and easy but it all depends on the driver as well. And the yard you are working in has alot to do with how many trailers you move up some yards are smaller than others but that is when you adjust to it.
Also if it's a pup trailer I move up 1 yard spot then 90 degree to 45 and I back up but if it's a 53 foot trailer dry van or reefer I skip 3 spots counting after the location your putting your trailer in.
Best tip for u turns I say take them low and slow it really doesn't matter Wich way you go left or right. it will take you the same way but always be cautious of your tail swing.
On the yard truck I drive, I found that right-hand u-turns stretch the hoses too much since they are strung from the right side of the tractor to the left side of the trailer. A normal road tractor has the lines attached to the left side of the tractor. I didn't know this at first, and had the electrical cord pop out of the tractor connector. It flew around the front of the trailer and wound around the fifth wheel plate. I didn't know this happened until I went to drop the trailer and couldn't find the cord! The electrical cord was ok, just a little greasy from contact with the bottom of the trailer.
How you back depends on where the tandem is set, also when backing use the dock bump stops those lines are not always straight
Make sure to check out my other videos to some more pointers for the ones that are new to the industry and the ones that need just a cool refresher🥶 Appreciate the Love and feedback hit the subscribe button and click on the bell so you know when new videos are posted. 😁🤙🏼
Would you say being a yard jockey is a good job long term?
That all depends what kinda drive a person has if your active and like to keep busy and like being outside with all types of weather. Then yeah it's a good job. But if you dislike any of that then it might not be good. It's been good to me tho. beats being inside a warehouse loading the trailers for 4 years ++
when you backed up, what direction did you have the steering wheel...
Left and I started turning it right slightly and getting in front of my trailer as I'm backing it up into the space.
@@olafg19 i have to try this out.. I did utr training & they had us turn the wheel right then left to get in trailer before tires stopped to back
@@Maroboyy_2Ss well if your asking from the first position of your destination spot you skip 3 trailer spots not counting the location space. Then you go right then left then you back up and steer infront of your trailer as your backing up and adjust as needed of course.
There’s an opening that’s a 12 hr shift. Is that normal? That’s intense
I do 12 hours Monday thru Thursday 10 hours Friday and 8 on Saturday it's not to bad sometimes it gets slow so you have time to relax.
you would be fired if u work for us at nissan without no lights lol
You are still in gear when you pulled the spring breaks ...
Over 100lbs of pressure on the tractor breaks and the trailer breaks it won't go anywhere trust me. But yes you are supposed to put it on Neutral good eye 👁️ lol
@@olafg19 I am a part department manager. Brakes can go at any moment. Better safe then sorry. If the trailer brakes are not adjusted correctly the spring brakes do not do anything.
Yes I agree but that would really have to be a messed up / Final destination situation for your trailer and tractor breaks to both go out at the same time. As an operator that does a proper pre trip on the equipment I rest assured that the Tractor was not going anywhere those breaks pads where new and beefed up. If they where thin and worn then yeah I would have something to worry about 😳 but you are still correct always best to put it on Neutral 100% agree👍🏼
Do you need a class A driver’s License to work for a yard driver ?
At the company I'm at you do need a class A but I heard there is some companys that only require class C.
I’m getting trained and i don’t need a cdl at all
@@deshawnwilliams9932 Yeah I believe you but the company I work for requires you to have a CDL because they also have day cabs and they sometimes require shuttle Transfers to different sites.
Depends on what company you work for. At FedEx Ground you don’t, BUT they will ask you for a regular class C. They also require a drug test.
Except we got computers to tell us what to do
WTF mine don't have a cop light
i com america 10 year make al moneys driv truck all hour wit son 13 no lisense what so eve polica say i no driv i say i driv yard truck they ok now . good i watch you you good school i go work
I hate those ottowa t2s. Way to short. I'm in a 2019 autocar xspotter. And they really make y'all use the light cord and service brakes? That sucks lol
I actually use a 2017 T2 and I like it cab is very spacious unlike those older models and steps on both sides are very convenient👍. I don't understand why you wouldn't want to use your service breaks?🤔 When you got 40,000 to 70,000 lbs riding behind you at 10 to 15 MPH and a random tractor break failure occurs your gonna wish that service line was connected. Could turn the truck into a nice fluffed pancake 🥞 try it out you feel the difference when all those breaks go into effect. Those extra 2 second's to put that line on could be worth it. As for the light cord I work at night it's best to put it on, don't want to be liable for someone saying they didn't see me stopping cause my light cord was disconnected. Or they didn't see a huge box coming there way. America the land of the lawsuits. always have to watch your 6.
Oh and forgot to mention the life on the tractor brakes you would extend if you use that service line just a tip I learned the same way in this industry you never stop learning new things. you just have to be opened minded to new ideas.
I see your point on the service brakes but my company won't let us use them and they have us go 25 instead of your speed. It's not my truck so I can't make that call lol.
@@leonardbecker7794 lol 🤣 well just remember dispatchers and managers don't drive. And from the sound of it don't seem like they know much about air breaks And if you were to ever get caught in an accident that I hope you don't. you then just become another number to them. And they move on to the next guy. So for your safety and jobs sake I would just throw that one extra line on. But hey I'm not a safety advisor i don't care what you do. These are just driver tips. 😎
Yeah. I've had 2 accidents, never with air brakes. One was a near flip and the other was someone who went behind me. I've never had an issue with stopping although where I work is very open.
It's a shame these yard dogging jobs are going to be 100% automated before too much longer. It looks like fun.
Well I don't think that's going to be in my life time hopefully 😳lol but I have been seeing alot of the electric semis slowly coming out but automated not just yet. I know they are in the progress but I think they have alot to work on before getting them adopted.
@@olafg19 Yeah. There's a thought experiment called the Trolley Conundrum. Which could explain the reluctance of TuSimple, Embark, and even Plus Drive to claim they're ready for production.
Yard looking empty
One of those lovely days where you can just turn up the walkie and relax for a few hours 😴
Bomb.com
It's called a yard horse not goat!
Must take a while to get used to the size
Yeah definitely but once you do it's a breeze!