How to Parallel Park a Big Rig
Parallel parking a big rig is a challenging part of driving a semi. This skill is taught when truck drivers learn how to operate a tractor-trailer, but it takes some years of practice to finally master the technique. If you're interested in learning how to parallel park for the purposes of attaining a Class "A" CDL, check with schools to see exactly how much time they spend on parallel parking before making a final decision on a truck-driving school.
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Instructions
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Look to see that the semi is parked straight along the left line of the space where the parallel parking will take place.
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Look in the upper-left mirror.
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Complete a hard left turn with the steering wheel.
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Back until you reach the space. This should be around 18 inches in from the left side of your trailer.
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Stop the truck after you've completed the back.
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Look in your upper-right mirror.
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Make a hard right turn with the steering wheel.
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Back up until the tractor and trailer are both in a straight line.
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Stop the semi when the tractor and trailer are aligned.
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Check the right-upper mirror again.
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Make sure that the wheel is turned back to its center. This should be about two straight turns, give or take.
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Back the tractor and trailer in a straight line until the furthest rear tire is 4 feet from the curb where you are parking.
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Stop the semi again to make sure that the truck and trailer are centered to each other. Both will be angled slightly away from the curb.
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Make a hard right turn and back until you have reached the center of your landing gears.
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Stop and check the upper-right mirror.
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Turn your steering wheel at a hard left angle.
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Back until the tractor and trailer are straight once again.
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Stop, set the parking brake, and get out to make sure that both the right front and rear tires are not hitting the curb. If a correction is needed, pull forward to make alterations.
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Tips & Warnings
Use your low reverse and low gear to parallel park. Practice parallel parking in empty spaces where you have lots of room to gain experience.
If at all possible, avoid parallel parking. This maneuver takes skill and the inexperienced could cause an accident.
