Sep 01, 2017 • Community

CVSA Brake Safety Day

CVSA Brake Safety Day

CVSA Brake Safety Day

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has set September 7, 2017, as Brake Safety Day where inspections of trucks will occur throughout North America.

According to the CVSA, Brake Safety Day inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspection, which is a 37-step procedure that includes an examination of both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness.

Brake inspections will look for things like (but are not limited to):

Potential loose or missing parts
Air or hydraulic fluid leaks
Worn linings or rotors
Worn pads or drums
ABS malfunctioning indicator and more

In the 10 jurisdictions using performance-based brake testing (PBBT) equipment, vehicle braking efficiency will be measured. PBBT systems include a slow speed roller dynamometer that measures total vehicle weight and total brake force from which braking efficiency is determined, says the CVSA.

The minimum braking efficiency for trucks is 43.5 percent, required by U.S. federal regulation and the CVSA out-of-service criteria.

From September 11-17 2016, the CVSA conducted a Brake Safety Week with inspectors reporting 13.2 percent of inspections resulting in out-of-service brake violations and 14.8 percent of inspections with non-brake related out-of-service violations.

During the 2016 International Roadcheck brake-related violations were responsible for 45.7 percent of all out-of-service violations, the largest percentage of any violation.

Learn More About Trucker Path

Tagstruck drivers

7 Ways to Stay Healthy While On the Road [p]When you are driving on the road, it becomes extremely hard to stay active and healthy. Simply sitting in a seat for long hours can put immense mental and physical strain on your body. Not to mention the terrible food choices you have to make due to a lack of healthy options in many restaurants, motels, or truck stops. However, if you are really up for it, there are plenty of things you can do while you are on the road to keep your body and mind in perfect shape. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Stack Up on Healthy Snacks[/b][/p] [p]If you drive from state to state for fun or as part of your job you should always think in advance and buy some healthy snacks for the journey. Nowadays, you can find scores of nourishing refreshments at your local superstore to keep your health in check. You don't have to fill up your stomach with candies, chips, cookies, or other similar treats when you can buy some dry fruits, milk, baked chips, and other healthy alternatives. This way, you can keep consuming snacks when you are bored and remain fit.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-HealthySnacks.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Always Use Sunscreen[/b][/p] [p]We often undermine the effects the sun has on our skin. The constant bashing of the sun's rays can create serious dermal issues. Often times leading to life-threatening consequences in the form of skin cancer. You should make it your duty to protect yourself from the sun while you are on a long journey. Use good quality sunscreen, and you will never complain about blemished and wrinkly skin when you are older.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Get Ample Sleep[/b][/p] [p]Sleep is often ignored by truckers and other long-haul drivers since they are adamant about meeting strict deadlines. In reality, sleep should be your priority when it comes to long-distance driving. If you are putting in at least eight hours of sleep every night, then your mind and body will be in top shape to perform the coming day. However, skipping sleep will lead to mistakes and accidents, which we all want to avoid.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-AmpleSleep.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Meditate Often[/b][/p] [p]You should make it a habit to meditate for a short period of time whenever you get the chance. Meditation can help calm the nerves and soothe the mind. If you are a trucker who is constantly on the highway, make it your routine to meditate for ten minutes before beginning your day. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Keep Hydrated[/b][/p] [p]Our bodies need sufficient hydration to stay functional. Hence, long-distance drivers need to keep water bottles with them at all times. Avoid sugary drinks like sodas as they can cause the dehydration process to accelerate. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-Hydrate.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Try Yoga[/b][/p] [p]Driving for long hours can make the body stiff, which is why you should think about sneaking in a bit of yoga during your breaks. Yoga improves flexibility and mobility of the body while also helping the mind regain focus. You don't have to go overboard with a full routine when a small one can do your body wonders. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Socialize[/b][/p] [p]Humans are social animals, meaning we need constant human connection to stay mentally healthy. Being social is highly important for drivers who are driving alone since talking with friends and family can revitalize the soul and help regain your focus and determination. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final thoughts[/b][/p] [p]You can't possibly find time to prepare full-blown meals or go to the gym while you are on the road, but doing a little bit of what we suggested can help you keep your body and mind in tip-top condition. Here's to a healthier 2021![/p] [p]Got some wellness tips? Share them on the comments below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Jan 29, 2021

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2020 [p]The U.S economy is highly dependent on some 3.5 million individuals who spend their lives on the road delivering goods to move our economy. Yes, we are talking about truck drivers who deserve praise and gratitude for what they do every day. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/blog-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Historical Significance [/b][/p] [p]Trucking has been around for over a century. Alexander Winton built the first semi-trailer in 1898, and quickly over the next hundred years, its significance really started to take shape. In 1998, the American Trucking Association (ATA) decided that a celebratory week shall be commemorated on the 2nd week of September. Every year since then, we’ve reserved that date to celebrate and give thanks to the millions of OTR and local drivers. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/blog-2-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Impact on the Economy[/b][/p] [p]Trucking plays an integral role in the U.S economy. Some have stated that trucks act like the red blood cells in a human body. The red blood cells deliver oxygen to vital parts of the body, the same as trucks deliver goods to every corner of the country. Without them, the entire economy comes to a halt.[/p] [p]According to official statistics, trucks move 72.5% of all the freight inside the U.S. That’s about 11.84 billion tons of goods! The good news is that the demand for truck drivers is increasing every year. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that by the year 2026 approximately 108,400 more heavy-load truckers will be required to maintain the network. The future is bright for anyone who wants to join the party. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/blog-3-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Showing Gratitude [/b][/p] [p]Life on the road is not easy. Truckers are away from their loved ones several months out of the year. [/p] [p]Sometimes a simple thank-you can mean the world. Being courteous on the road, goodie bag, or even a few words of kindness can lift spirits. It’s not easy for truck drivers to always cook and pack their meals, buying them a meal goes a long way! [/p] [p]In spite of our current pandemic, truckers are still delivering the essential goods across the country. Keeping the shelves stocked, delivering critical medical supplies, helping us get from manufacturer to doorstep, truckers have taken on a special significance in these times. We must not forget these hardworking men and women. The National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is a wonderful time for Americans to acknowledge these unsung heroes who make our lives easier and keep the economic wheel spinning.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Sep 14, 2020 • Carriers

Freight Broker Software [h2] Freight Broker Software [/h2] [p] Like any industry, the use of technology in freight has rapidly advanced and new freight broker software promotes efficiencies and allows brokers the ability to connect its customers to move more freight and increase potential earnings. [/p] [h2] Carrier Essentials [/h2] [p]When you are searching for the right freight broker software for your business there are a few key features you need when it comes to managing the trucks you work with. The essentials on the carrier side should include:[/p] [p]<strong>Carrier Lists:</strong> to keep a record of all of the carriers you have a contracted relationship with. Keeping a list of carriers to go to for certain lanes or projects makes your job of covering freight much easier.[/p] [p]<strong>Carrier Information:</strong> it's beneficial to have all the carriers you work with documented. This means having the motor carrier number (MC#) or Department of Transportation number (DOT#) linked to updated insurance, a record of loads ran as well as any additional terms and conditions. [/p] [h2]Client Essentials[/h2] [p]<strong>Client Addresses:</strong> the most important thing to consider for choosing software in regards to your clients is to track the pickup and delivery locations (sheds). Having all the sheds tracked in your system will allow you to easily create loads for the lanes you are working on. Knowing if those facilities are appointment based on first come first serve (FCFS) is also beneficial. [/p] [p]<strong>Load History:</strong> having a record of the loads you ran will help tremendously not only when it comes time to send invoices but also when you are comparing rates or running a lane frequently. With a record of the common lanes, you have run for a customer you have a blueprint for future loads and can easily compare rates. [/p] [giphy]<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3oriO7A7bt1wsEP4cw" width="480" height="336" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe>[/giphy] [h2] Load Management Essentials [/h2] [p] <strong>Load Building:</strong> this is the most important aspect of your potential software choices. To build a load you need to have sheds for pickup and delivery, carrier on the load, and location tracking. [/p] [p]<strong>Location Tracking:</strong> Thus software helps keep your customers happy. Knowing when a load has been booked, dispatched, picked up, and delivered are four things you will want to relay to your client. In addition having a function allowing you to track the location of the load either with automatic GPS or manually logged updates will help you stay ahead of potential issues and set you apart from a Fed Ex or UPS where you have no idea where things are while on the road.[/p] [p]<strong>Carrier on Load:</strong> having a list of qualified carriers is great and all, but what good is it if you cannot add them to loads. This makes tracking loads much more efficient and avoids confusion when you have several loads over the road. [/p] [p]<strong>Pay and Bill Rate:</strong> tracking the amount you will be billing your client and paying the carrier makes for easy calculation of margins and load budgets. This will make accounting much easier to manage.[/p] [p]<strong>Rate Confirmations:</strong> knowing what you are charging your client and paying your carrier is great, but being able to generate the confirmation binding them both is even better. If your freight broker software can generate these documents for you, it will save you loads of time. You can get the truck on the road right away instead of having to write out an email with pickup and delivery cities, load specifics, FCFS or Appointment times, and rate.[/p] [h2]Additional Software Tools[/h2] [p]<strong>Accounts Payable/Receivable:</strong> while having a feature like this included in your freight broker software is helpful, it is not essential. When it comes down to it billing your customer and paying carriers comes down to keeping an accurate spreadsheet which will already be installed on your computer. [/p] [p]<strong>Bill of Lading Generation:</strong> this is another feature you may or may not need. Most of the time the shipper will have the bill of ladings created for the driver but in the off chance, they ask you to make one a word processor is all you need. Blank BOLs can be downloaded off of a simple google search or made using tables in a word processor: it needs a pickup number (if applicable),pickup address, delivery address, and special instructions. If a freight broker software suite is going to charge you extra to do that, pass on it.[/p] [p]<strong>Carrier Search/Load Post:</strong> you may see different broker software programs with a feature to help you find a carrier for your loads. However, all they are doing is pulling data from load boards. Why pay extra when you can use load boards like <em>Truckloads</em> to post your load and find carriers yourself?[/p] [p]Selecting your broker software comes down to what you feel you really need for your freight business. When it comes down to it you might not need much to get started, but choosing the right freight broker software can help can you maximize efficiency and increase potential profits.[/p] [video id=snyBYpnuhWw] [button-green href="https://ship.truckerpath.com/signup?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=software&utm_campaign=Aug8"]Try Truckloads for Free[/button-green]

Aug 09, 2017 • Brokers