Community | Trucker Path Blog

Meet a Pathfinder: Fredrick Claxton

Dec 20, 2021 • Community

Meet a Pathfinder: Alex Tkachev

Dec 10, 2021 • Community

When and where does parking get filled up faster?

Oct 12, 2021 • Community

Starting your Career as a Truck Driver [p]Before starting this journey, you should be 100% sure that you want to go down this career path. Remember that despite it being a career that brings in the bucks and takes you to different cities, trucking also involves making sacrifices and paying heavy attention to safety. Familiarize yourself with the industry as much as you can. If you’re ready to begin, then we’ve put together a few pointers that might be useful before you start your career.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Checklist for becoming a Truck Driver[/b][/p] <ol> <li>Obtain Commercial Driver's License.</li> <li>Obtain endorsements for a particular truck/load type if necessary.</li> <li>Buy your own truck and complete necessary insurance/paperwork OR join a trucking company and take on deliveries. </li> </ol> <h2></h2> [p][b] Getting your Commercial Driver's License[/b][/p] [p]You will need to attend a trucking school to train for your CDL Skills Test. On average, it takes about 7 weeks (between $3000 & $7000) to get your CDL whilst completing the program full-time. You will need to dedicate atleast 40 hours a week for your truck driving training. It is also possible to attend a paid CDL program, often held by some of the larger trucking companies. They will teach you how to drive their trucks, get the CDL and give their graduates a driving job. Paid training programs may have an extra set of requirements including a commitment to employment (depending on employer). [/p] [p]To begin pursuing for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL),you will need to fulfill the basic requirements: [/p] <ul> <li>Possess a high school diploma or GED</li> <li>Preserve a good driving record</li> <li>Have a Class D license for at least 1 year and in good standing</li> <li>Be at least 18 years old to drive in-state, 21 to drive state-to-state</li> <li>Possess a social security card</li> <li>Be able to show proof of insurance</li> <li>Pass a 10-year background check</li> <li>Pass TSA screening</li> <li>Pass a medical examination</li> <li>Pass periodic drug tests</li> </ul> <h2></h2> [p][b] Step 1: Get your Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)[/b][/p] [p]The CLP allows you to practice on legal roads with a CDL holder sitting next to you. Besides a countrywide 10-year driving record & health check, your state may have specific requirements. For a better idea, please check your state's CDL Manual. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Step 2: Get your Commercial Drivers License (CDL)[/b][/p] [p]You are required to hold the CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test. Some states may require you to take a CDL training beforehand. The Skills Test has three parts: The Vehicle Inspections Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Once you've pased the test, congrats! You're a certified commercial driver. You may be given the CDL on the same day or send it to you by mail. The CDL cost also varies according to state.[/p] <table> <tr> <td>CDL Application Fee</td> <td>$0 - $43</td> <td>The Commercial Driver's License "application" is the form you will need to complete when applying for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). This form will consist of your Identification Information (everything from your name, addresses, DOB, social security number to current license information),questions related to "Certifications" ("are you a resident in the state you're applying for your CDL in?", "do you have any limitations or medical conditions, either mental or physical?", and other questions related to qualifications). In addition to these questions, the application will ask about "CDL Endorsements" you are trying to obtain. For more on "Endorsements", read on. </td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Endorsement Fee</td> <td>Varies</td> <td>Varies depending on endorsement & state. Six endorsements that can be added: - Double/Triple Trailers (Knowledge Test Only) - Passenger (Knowledge and Skills Tests) - Tank Vehicle (Knowledge Test Only) - Hazardous Materials (Knowledge Test Only) - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials Endorsements (Knowledge Test Only) - School Bus (Knowledge and Skills Tests)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Written Test Fee</td> <td>Upto $125</td> <td>The CDL written test consists of questions on a number of topics, ranging from maintaining safe operating speeds in many types of driving conditions, handling cargo, using an electronic logging device, operating all the systems in the vehicle, and more. Test-takers receive 60 minutes to complete the exam. If the driver would like a particular endorsement (see above),additional questions may be added. Most endorsement tests add an additional 20 to 25 questions. Most states do not set a time limit for the test-taker to answer the endorsement exam questions.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Skills Test Fee</td> <td>Upto $250</td> <td>The CDL skills test involves a road test, a pre-trip inspection test, and a basic vehicle control test. The skills test is a necessary part of obtaining your CDL. During the skills test, you must drive on the road with a test administrator, so the test must be scheduled in advance. If you have two or more years of experience in driving with the military, you may able to waive the test. </td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL License Fee</td> <td>Upto $120</td> <td>Once you've passed the CDL exam, you must pay for your commercial driver's license, which can cost upwards of $120. You must renew your CDL on a regular basis, but frequency varies by state. Check your state's requirements to find out more.</td> </tr> </table> [p]There are three types of CDL's for each state.[/p] <table> <tr> <th>Commercial A</th> <td>Any legal combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.</td> </tr> <tr> <th>Commercial B</th> <td>Any single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR, or a 3-axle vehicle weighing over 6,000 pounds.</td> </tr> <tr> <th>Commercial C</th> <td>Any Class C vehicle with one or more of the following endorsements: - Hazardous Materials (HazMat) - Passenger Vehicle (PV) - Tank Vehicle (TV)</td> </tr> </table> <h2></h2> [p][b] Time to find a Trucking job[/b][/p] [p]As an entry-level trucker, your options may be limited but always ensure your employer provides the right work/life balance and benefits. Choosing between a big or small company also has its differences. Small companies give you a higher pay and closer connections with staff, whereas big companies allow you to grow within the company and work on exciting projects. Most trucking companies aren’t just going to let you out on the road in their own trucks without some sort of training. Training program lengths vary from company to company—but, for the most part, you can expect that they will be at least a few weeks long.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Finding your balance[/b][/p] [p]Once you’ve become more comfortable and have clocked in a few thousand miles, it might be a good idea to think about what’s next. Are you looking to move closer to home and do more regional work? Maybe you’ve got all the skills needed to move from a truck driver to an owner/fleet operator. Think about your goals, your accomplishments/ongoing challenges with truck driving before carefully selecting what’s right.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Don’t worry, we’re by your side. [/b][/p] [p] We hope this guide gives you an overview on how to start your exciting trucking career. As a company that’s made by truckers for truckers, we want to make sure you get the job done in the most efficient and safe way possible. With support from our thousands of daily users who rely on our services, we will continue to update our growing features.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Stay in touch![/b][/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Tharaka[/b][/p]

Aug 31, 2021 • Carriers

Different Types of Trucking Jobs [p]Truck driving is a challenging profession that requires incredible mental fortitude. You are constantly on the road, away from family and the warm embrace of your home. On top of that, you are driving most of the time, so there is hardly time for any rest. Therefore, it is a good idea to choose a suitable trucking job that fits your schedule and allows you to relax. There are plenty of opportunities you can explore![/p] [p]There are plenty of opportunities you can explore! [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Dry Van Hauling[/b][/p] [p]Dry van hauling is tailor-made for beginner truckers. You only have to deliver non-perishable items from one place to another. The loading and unloading are also done by the client, so you only have to focus on the driving.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Freight Trucker[/b][/p] [p]Freight is a very broad term, so anything other than dry goods come under the definition. It's tough being a freight hauler as you are expected to transport all kinds of goods. They can be hazardous, liquid materials, or anything that dry haulers are not allowed to carry.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Oil/Gasoline Tanker[/b][/p] [p]Hauling a tanker is no easy task. You have to be focused every moment and take care of the cargo at all times. One mistake could result in a horrible accident. Tanker haulers are some of the most sought-after trucking jobs in the industry. The high risk means there is a high reward as well. So, it is natural for truckers to look for tanker jobs.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Refrigerated Goods Transport[/b][/p] [p]Transporting refrigerated goods does not require a lot of skill, but it involves being punctual. You cannot fall behind the deadline, or the entire cargo can spoil. There is a lot of responsibility on such truckers but the good thing is that these jobs are close to home. You are not always expected to transport goods to far-off places.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Flatbed Trucker[/b][/p] [p]Any item that is too large or has an irregular shape, is transported by flatbed truckers. Flatbed trailers are open, which means the cargo is exposed to the elements at all times. The job requires extreme skill, to deliver the goods safely and on time. Trucks, cars, heavy machinery, and other similar items are transported using a flatbed hauler.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-6.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Regional Trucking Jobs[/b][/p] [p]If you are not worried about earning the big bucks and you are happier near your home, then regional trucking is for you. Such a job is easy and does not pay much, but at least you don’t have to be away from home all the time.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-7.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Hotshot Trucking[/b][/p] [p]There is no need to be disappointed if you like trucking and you don’t have a semi. A class 3 or 5 truck can also do the job. Hotshot trucking is attaching a trailer to your small truck and transporting goods using that setup. Once you have the capital and experience to upgrade, you can shift to a semi and accept more serious trucking jobs..[/p] [p]What about you? Which one are you or which one would you want to try out? Comment below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p] [p] Signing off.[/p]

May 20, 2021 • Carriers

Trucker Safety and Health Tips [p]It can be incredibly tiring driving for long durations of time, especially if you are delivering goods far away. You have to be very careful about managing stress and maintaining good health while on long routes. The healthier you are, the more focused you will be, and that will result in efficient goods delivery. Ultimately, taking care of your health and safety will have a positive effect not only on your lifestyle but also on your work.[/p] [p]We are celebrating World Safety and Health Day this week to raise awareness for your well-being. It’s a day most relevant for all workers especially truckers, who spend a big part of their life on the road. Here are a few health and safety tips for you so you can stay in top shape and reduce risks from your day to day trucking. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Wear the Seatbelt[/b][/p] [p]Wearing the seatbelt is essential for every driver, especially for a trucker, because trucks are involved in a lot more accidents than cars. You have to wear the belt even though most of the time you drive slow. Safety should be your priority, no matter the situation.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Take Lots of Rest[/b][/p] [p]As a truck driver, your job is very demanding. It is not easy to drive constantly for hundreds of miles. Your body needs rest and some time to recuperate. Therefore, take a nap whenever you get the time and check in to a nice motel, whenever possible. Nothing beats a good night's sleep, so make sure you are not skipping too many rest stops.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202104-TP-BLOG-WorldHealthSafety-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Don’t Forget to Eat and Hydrate[/b][/p] [p]A lot of times, truckers forget to fill their belly with nutritious food and water. The human body needs constant energy to function. Therefore, you should keep some snacks and a big water bottle by your side. It is better to eat small snacks while you are engrossed in driving as this way you can meet the deadline and keep yourself healthy.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Inspect Your Truck[/b][/p] [p]They say that you can save yourself a lot of trouble if you inspect your vehicle before driving. For truck drivers, this is very true. You have such a large vehicle, with so many moving parts, it presents its challenges. Moreover, if anything goes wrong, you will hurt yourself and others around you. Therefore, it's good practice to do pre-trip inspection. Check the tires, the warning signs, the engine, and other vital components of your rig before heading out on your journey.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202104-TP-BLOG-WorldHealthSafety-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Socialize When Possible[/b][/p] [p]Humans are social animals that require regular interaction to stay sane. As a trucker, you are alone most of the time, away from friends and family. The loneliness can take a toll on your mental health. Hence, try to make a few new friends at rest stops. It helps to talk to other people, maybe drive in groups to keep in touch with each other on the cb radio. If you are missing your family, talk to them on the phone or get them on a video call. Talking to your dear ones can rejuvenate your soul and boost your mood. Keep in mind all these tips and follow them as much as possible to stay safe and healthy while driving.[/p] [p]Do you have any safety and wellness tips to share? Comment below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Apr 30, 2021 • Carriers

Apr 21, 2021 • Community

Trucker Spotlight - Tashauna Thomas <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Tashauna Thomas</strong>, who's a 25-year old trucker from Brampton, Ontario, Canada. She has been driving for about 3 years, started driving locally and now doing OTR. Let's get to know "Tashauna" and her life over the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I was offered the opportunity to get my CDL while I was working in the warehouse at Coca-Cola, so that was how and why I decided to be a trucker. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you have been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> In the short amount of time that I have been a trucker, the only major changes I’ve seen would have to be the hours of service in regards to the split sleeper berth. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some things you dislike about being a truck driver?</strong></h3> Sitting for long periods of time, hitting animals, and being stuck in bad weather conditions. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What attributes must one have in order to be a successful truck driver?</strong></h3> Patience and great driving skills. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the most memorable experience you've had while over the road?</strong></h3> Seeing all the different types of landscapes across America and Canada. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model? </strong></h3> Peterbilt 579. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> I wanted to be in a Missy Elliot music video like Alyson Stoner. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> Any truck stop that is clean and doesn’t have a bunch of dropped trailers in parking spots. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What was the worst breakdown or setback you've experienced while OTR?</strong></h3> The starter on my Volvo was corroded so that took a while to get fixed just because it’s a Volvo. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> What I like about <a href="https://sixdays.page.link/tLUu">Trucker Path</a> is I can see which truck stop has parking available so I can plan according for my 10 hour break. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> I say go for it if you feel you want to try it out. Nothing wrong with seeing if trucking is for you. When you do become a trucker, don’t forget to do your pre-trip! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3> They can view my videos on my Youtube Channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9M6B5FXm_D9_peBNX2Lzqg/videos">Slimteetee</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vWfKm-TZ4hE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> <h2></h2> Hope you guys enjoy! <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Apr 15, 2021 • Carriers