Try & get as much information/area knowledge as you can from the previous driver or the covers. It is easier than what Rod had it as far as there are street names & addresses now. However, about 50% more stops than Rod had too. So gather any tips you can, such as leave the 'shag' for the McDonald farm at the country store in town and call leave message or leave package(s) under can at top of driveway and USE flag stops on extended for any pickups, that's against the rules in the city, but you're on your own in the bush . Also get with postal carriers and post offices for info. A lot will let you slip it into the mail box which is also against the rules... yet, you do what you gotta do to avoid getting stuck. In the old days you could be in town and find a customer that is a later 30-mile shag on your route. What you did back then was just cut the 1Z-label off and drive around looking at the wild life and/or swimming and just pop a scan on it an hour later and D.R. it. Not as simple anymore so know where your GPS doesn't get service. Also drive the speed limit back to the building. This eliminates having to help any intown drivers. Watch out for blind 90-degree turns on gravel roads. You can happen on this quickly doing 45-50. Always keep a stash of emergency supplies in your truck and when they slash routes in fall always have warm clothes, boots, coat. You might walk in wearing shorts and shirt jack and they decided to put your route back in to the woods at 30-degree weather and 1' of snow. Trust no one!
Most important of all just starting out is keep your wheels moving. Don't sit on the roadside looking at maps or your phone. Keep driving and you'll happen upon a lot of stops. Always keep the wheels moving. You're lucky to be learning this in May.
May the 4th be with you.
