Jun 16, 2017 • Carriers

HAZMAT Transportation

HAZMAT Transportation

Understand the requirements of HAZMAT transportation and how truck drivers can avoid violations.

HAZMAT Transportation

HAZMAT transportation can be lucrative for carriers but it requires understanding common Department of Transportation violations and how to avoid them in regards to hazardous materials.

HAZMAT transportation can be extremely dangerous for truck drivers which is why it typically pays at a higher rate. To enforce regulations and promote the safety of HAZMAT transportation, the FMCSA conducts over 154,000 annual roadside inspections, with an estimated 35,000 DOT HAZMAT violations reported. That’s nearly 23 percent of inspections resulting in a violation!

Most Common Violations of HAZMAT Regulations

No Copy of USDOT hazardous materials registration number (8.1 %)
Package not secure in vehicle (7.6 %)
Placard damaged, deteriorated or obscured (6.9 %)
Vehicle not placarded as required (5.9 %)
No Shipping papers (5.1 %)
Shipping paper accessibility (4.7 %)
Emergency response information missing (4.5 %)
Failure to provide carrier required placards (4.4 %)
Offering a hazardous material without preparing a shipping paper (3.0 %)
No placards or marking when required (2.9 %)

Want to obtain a HAZMAT endorsement on your CDL and potentially earn more with HAZMAT transportation?

GHS Transport Pictograms Cheat Sheet for hazardous materials from Global Chemical Resources.

TagsOwner Operator

Trucker Spotlight - Lashaune <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/2020/10/ts-lashaune-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Lashaune</strong>, the host of LockOutMen Podcast, who's been driving for around 5 years now. He hustled most of his life and did everything from retail to warehouse. Aside from trucking, he was also able to open a few successful businesses. Let's get to more about Lashaune and how he landed a trucking career. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I've always had interest in driving a truck, at 1st it was the lack of funds, and I knew I didn't want to go through a trucking company.And so, I went to community college paid with my last credit card and got my license. I think I was forced in to pursue trucking because of my separation from my wife. <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> Well I haven't been driving long to tell. I guess the eld mandate. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/ts-lashaune-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> I've been on YouTube for years. I just do it as a hobby. But when I got in to trucking, people started watching what I was doing and what I was talking about I just said to myself I'll just do something for the new drivers that are coming out here. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Always lol it's just you and the truck. How i deal with it? I try not to think about it.. and try to get out and enjoy life when I get the chance to. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/ts-lashaune-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> I'm still trying to get used of the new changes. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your usual routes? Favorite scenic truck route?</strong></h3> I run midwest most of the time. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/ts-lashaune-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What was your weirdest or most unusual haul?</strong></h3> Running my 1st lowboy flatbed. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How often do you use rest stops / truck stops? What are the things that you look for in a truck stop? Favorite truck stop meal?</strong></h3> Not often, but I deal with Loves the most cause of the free showers. As for food, I guess Flying J for Dennys. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> Covid19 season and any problems that come with it! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> The main one is truckers hanging out way too long in the fuel island. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> What I like about <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> is the fact that you can check to see/truck parking and if there's spots there to park. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Do your research research research and don't just fall for anything. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3> They can view my videos on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfJfeN3qoZmaIb9YwbjWDlA">Youtube Channel, LockOutMen Podcast</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mc6Je74Pn4Q" 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>

Oct 14, 2020 • Carriers

Factoring Costs - Comparing Factoring Rates [p] Freight factoring can be advantageous to your trucking company but there are some factoring costs that are misleading and comparing factoring rates as well as their offer details can help you maximize earnings. [/p] [h2] Factoring Costs [/h2] [p]There is more to the factoring cost than the factoring rate offered in<a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/freight-factoring/"> freight factoring</a>. Freight factoring provides owner-operators an opportunity to better manage their cash flow and eliminate waiting to get paid. Factoring companies offer rates based on a variety of factors but there are several things you must understand when talking about the factoring cost.[/p] [p]Some require specific qualifications a client must meet to earn the best possible factoring rate. Others might require a specific volume of loads or long-term commitments (not quite 'til death do us part but nonetheless). Sometimes the lowest factoring rate won't provide you with the lowest cost to factor. [/p] [video id=IBCMtru_QMQ] [h2] Comparing Factoring Rates [/h2] [p]When comparing factoring rates a 1.5 percent factoring rate can cost more than 3.5 percent rate. Yes, you read that correctly. It's entirely possible that a lower factoring rate can actually cost you more. Let's say Factoring Company A who is offering a 1.5% rate and Factoring Company B is offering 3.5%. You're more inclined to factor invoices with Factoring Company A because the rate is better right?[/p] [p]While Factoring Company A's rate is lower, the overall cost to factor is not. This is due to fine print in Factoring Company A's contract where it included a variety of fees and commitments from you.[/p] [p]By breaking down the additional factoring fees and including them with the factoring rate we can compare the true factoring cost and decide which option is best for you. In this case, Company B would be the best freight factoring company for your trucking business. [/p] [img src="/uploads/2017/06/factoringrates.png" alt="My image"] [h2] Understanding the Differences When Comparing Factoring Rates [/h2] [p]Not all factoring rates are created equal. If you are interested in using a freight factoring company to help your cash flow, comparing factoring rates and determining the actual factoring cost can save you thousands. Some factoring companies aren't transparent and hope you won't see through some of their additional fees that lead to a higher factoring cost to you. [/p] [p]Remember to always read the <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/hidden-costs-to-factor/">fine print to avoid those hidden fees</a> in your factoring contract and understand the details that could lead to additional fees before committing to factor with a company. [/p] [p]Factoring companies like Trucker Path InstaPay offers non-recourse factoring with no commitment or fees. IntsaPay is completely transparent and you can easily get paid in a day by factoring right from your phone. It's perfect for owner-operators with a simple flat rate and no additional costs. [/p] [button text="MORE ABOUT INSTAPAY" href="https://truckerpath.com/sign-up-instapay/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=ctacomparingratesJuly24" width="250px"]

Jul 25, 2017 • Carriers

California Approves Fuel Tax Increase to Fund Road Improvements

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