Oct 26, 2023

Food Purchasing Habits at Truck Stops

We surveyed our community of truck drivers to learn about their food purchases at truck stops.

The Damaging Effects of Double Brokering in Trucking As the after-effects of the global pandemic still impact domestic supply chain transportation, trucking is more important to the U.S. supply chain than ever. However, with this increasing reliance on the trucking industry, there is also an equal increase in double brokering, a practice that poses a significant threat to the integrity and profitability of this vital sector. In fact, this illegal practice has cost the domestic shipping industry more than <a href="https://theloadstar.com/us-shippers-put-on-high-alert-over-double-brokering-fraud/">$500 million in a year</a>. So, what exactly is double brokering and why is it detrimental to the trucking industry? Understanding Double Brokering <a href="https://www.bm2freight.com/2021/12/22/the-truth-about-double-brokerage-and-what-brokers-wont-tell-you/">Double brokering</a> involves a middleman or broker accepting a load from a shipper and then sub-contracting it to another carrier. The process begins when a shipper entrusts a broker to arrange the transportation of their goods. The broker, instead of fulfilling their responsibility to secure a reliable carrier, opts to subcontract the job to another carrier without disclosing their role as a middleman. The second carrier, unaware of the original agreement, believes they are dealing directly with the shipper. This deceptive practice often leads to multiple parties unknowingly handling the same shipment, exploiting the lack of transparency and communication between shippers, carriers, and brokers. This could result in a series of problems, such as delayed deliveries, loss of cargo, and damaged relationships between the parties involved. This miscommunication and lack of accountability can also lead to potential fraud, low-quality service, and financial loss. With the deceptive nature of double brokering, it’s common that the carrier that ends up actually transporting the load hasn’t been carefully vetted and may not meet the shipper’s standards. The double broker may also fail to pay the carrier entirely, creating a completely new issue. Negative Impacts on the Trucking Business Double brokering undermines the very foundation on which the trucking business operates, ultimately harming all parties involved. 1. Compromised Quality and Accountability By introducing an extra layer into the transportation process, double brokering dilutes accountability and makes it challenging to identify who is responsible for any shortcomings, such as delays in shipping or damage to delivered cargo. The lack of direct communication between the shipper and carrier results in a diminished ability to address issues promptly and effectively, leading to dissatisfied customers. 2. Increased Risks Double brokering increases the likelihood of cargo theft and fraud, as multiple parties are involved in the handling of shipments. Each additional party in the supply chain creates an opportunity for unauthorized access to the cargo, heightening the risk of theft, loss, or damage. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, double brokering also means that there is a lack of accountability for any such cases, making it challenging for shippers to identify who is responsible for these shortcomings. 3. Erosion of Trust Trust is the backbone of any successful business relationship, including those within the trucking industry. Double brokering erodes trust by deceiving both shippers and carriers, leading to damaged reputations, strained partnerships, and a reluctance to engage in future transactions. The resulting loss of trust can have long-lasting negative consequences for the overall functioning of the industry and for individual shippers, brokers, and carriers affected by <a href="https://www.parade.ai/resources/freight-fraud">freight fraud</a>. Combatting Double Brokering To mitigate the adverse effects of double brokering and safeguard the interests of all stakeholders in the trucking business, a multi-faceted approach is necessary: 1. Strengthening Regulation and Enforcement Regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies need to collaborate to enforce strict guidelines and penalties against double brokering. Clear industry standards should be established to deter individuals from engaging in this practice, and regular audits and investigations should be conducted to identify and penalize offenders. <a href="https://www.ttnews.com/articles/double-brokering-increases">In the U.S</a>., many logistic providers as well as transportation associations are aware of the uptick in double brokering and actively working to implement new protocols against it. 2. Enhancing Transparency and Communication Improved communication channels and technologies should be embraced to facilitate direct interaction between shippers and carriers. By minimizing the role of intermediaries, trust can be restored, and potential risks associated with double brokering can be mitigated. On the side of shippers, they should also do their due diligence to <a href="https://www.parade.ai/digital-booking-with-confidence">investigate and conduct background checks</a> on their carriers before engaging in their services. Tools like <a href="https://app.carriers.fyi/">Carriers.FYI</a> can help verify carrier identities and reduce the risk of double brokering. 3. Raising Industry Awareness Education and awareness campaigns should be launched to inform shippers, carriers, and brokers about the risks and consequences of double brokering. Industry associations, trade shows, and conferences can serve as platforms to discuss best practices, share experiences, and collectively work towards eradicating this unethical practice. Double brokering undermines the trust, efficiency, and profitability of the trucking business. By understanding the basics of this practice and its detrimental impact, stakeholders can unite in their efforts to combat double brokering. With strengthened regulations, improved transparency, and increased awareness, the trucking industry can reclaim its integrity, fostering a more reliable environment for shippers, carriers, and brokers alike.

Jul 26, 2023

Trucker Path Provides Quick Access to Spot Cargo Insurance for App Users Powered by MiKargo247, all-risk coverage is now available as single trip policies and per load pricing PHOENIX – September 26, 2023 – Trucker Path, a subsidiary of leading global SaaS provider, Moatable, Inc. (NYSE: MTBL) and the most comprehensive and relied upon mobile app for North American truckers, today announced that it continues to expand its Trucker Path Marketplace offering with spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247. Using the Trucker Path Marketplace, North American truckers can have MiKargo247’s all-risk coverage cargo insurance for up to $1 million per load. According to <a href="https://www.dat.com/blog/transportation-tuesday-tip-7-avoid-paying-out-of-pocket-for-under-or-uninsured-cargo">DAT</a>, it is estimated that up to 90% of cargo on the road is underinsured or not insured at all. MiKargo247 understands from their underwriters that this represents $15+ billion in damages that cannot be recovered. The partnership between Trucker Path and MiKargo247 allows drivers and owner operators to fully participate in the freight market by meeting insurance requirements and having reliable protection. “With spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247, the Trucker Path community has instant access to policies that can protect their loads beyond standard coverage,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “With these single trip policies and per load pricing, drivers and owner-operators can control their costs by choosing which loads to insure, and coverage amounts. This addition to the Trucker Path Marketplace supports truckers with an essential product that is easy to access, helps them operate more cost effectively, and provides peace-of-mind knowing their cargo is properly insured.” Following the Trucker Path Marketplace model of making business easier for the driving community, obtaining coverage is a simple click on on the spot cargo insurance icon in the Trucker Path Marketpace and then entering cargo information. Per-trip spot cargo insurance offered by MiKargo247 covers all risks and provides broader coverage for commodities typically excluded by other cargo policies. “MiKargo247 insurthech provides end-to-end spot cargo insurance as a readily-accessible solution for Trucker Path users is a natural fit and solution,” said Michele McGinnis, co-founder and CEO at MiKargo247. “Having the ability to include cargo protection as part of the trip planning process offers an added convenience for drivers so they can focus on their journey.” Benefits of spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247 to the Trucker Path community include: • Access to higher paying loads that need higher cargo coverage • Access to commoditities typically excluded by standard cargo policies • Quotes are generated in seconds and binding coverage can be issued in less than two minutes • No waiting for agent or underwriter approval of commodity and limit • No sign-up or subscription is required • Simple online claim service The insurer also provides phone, email and text customer support, and online claim reporting services. MiKargo247 is underwritten by Roanoke Insurance Group Inc. with underwriting authority provided by A-Rated Munich Re Syndicate Ltd. – Syndicate 457 at Lloyd’s of London. Carriers interested in learning more about Trucker Path’s spot cargo insurance offering powered by MiKargo247 can visit www.mikargo247.com/truckerpath/. About Trucker Path Phoenix-based Trucker Path is the provider of a wide range of truck driver-centric mobility products. A subsidiary of leading global SaaS provider, Moatable, Inc. (NYSE: <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/moatable-announces-name-change-from-renren-inc-to-moatable-inc-301856263.html#financial-modal">MTBL</a>),the Trucker Path app is currently in use by nearly 1 million professional truck drivers. Offering best-in-class navigation with truck-optimized routing, the Trucker Path app also provides access to vital up-to-date information about truck stops, real-time parking availability, fuel prices, weigh station statuses, and truck scales and wash locations. The company also offers TruckLoads, a digital freight exchange that connects drivers, carriers and brokers; and COMMAND™, the industry’s first and only Operations & Driver Relationship (ODR) platform that provides small to mid-size fleets with the necessary driver and TMS technologies to successfully run a fleet. For more information, visit www.truckerpath.com. Media Contact: Susan Fall LaunchIt Public Relations 858-490-1050 susan@launchitpr.com

Sep 26, 2023

10 Reasons Why Commercial Vehicles Need Regular Maintenance By recognizing the significance of maintaining our personal cars and trucks, it becomes clear that commercial vehicles deserve no less attention. In fact, regular maintenance is one of the most important aspects of <a href="https://www.merchantscommercialsales.com/vehicles-for-vocations.html">commercial vehicle ownership</a>, regardless of industry use. What Does Regular Maintenance Mean? Let’s review some top maintenance items before we dive into the reasons regular maintenance is essential for commercial vehicles. ● Oil and filter changes — The old rule of thumb used to be every 3,000 miles, but newer engines that use either synthetic oil blends or 100% synthetic oil can be driven between <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/how-often-should-i-change-my-oil/">5,000 and 10,000 miles</a> before an oil and filter change is needed. However, your vehicle manufacturer's guidelines will offer the best advice. You can expect to need new air filters every 15,000-30,000 miles. ● Tire tread depth and pressure — Your dashboard will light up with an alert when your tire pressure is low, often a tread depth issue is not realized until a technician points it out or a vehicle is undergoing an inspection. ● Tire rotation — It’s best to <a href="https://www.bridgestonetire.com/learn/maintenance/tire-rotation/">rotate your tires every 5,000 miles</a>, or as recommended by the manufacturer. ● Alignment — Potholes, bumps, and rocky terrain can impact your <a href="https://www.bridgestonetire.com/learn/maintenance/tire-rotation/">vehicle’s suspension alignment</a>, which can contribute to uneven wear and tear on your tires. The following features should also be checked regularly to avoid larger issues and safety concerns: ● Battery life ● Belts ● Brakes ● Fluid levels ● Headlights ● Hoses ● Shocks ● Spark plugs ● Turn signals 10 Reasons Why Your Commercial Vehicles Should Undergo Routine Maintenance 1. Improve safety Safety is widely regarded as a top priority. Make sure a technician regularly checks your <a href="https://www.allstate.com/resources/car-insurance/how-to-check-brake-pads">brake pads</a>, and keeps an eye and feel out for any unusual noises (such as grinding) or odd sensations (such as vibrating). Failing brakes have the potential to create a major accident that endangers the life of your driver, passenger, and anyone else in the vehicle’s vicinity. 2. Save money in the long-run The idea is that what you spend on routine maintenance will help prevent larger, more expensive problems in the future. For example, rotating your tires helps them wear more evenly, which means you don’t have to buy new ones as often. Failure to change your oil may result in the need for a completely new — and typically very expensive — engine. 3. Improve fuel economy According to the <a href="https://afdc.energy.gov/conserve/vehicle_maintenance.html#:~:text=Regular%20maintenance%20tune%2Dups%20ensures,the%20repair%20type%20and%20quality.">U.S. Department of Energy</a>, “using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil in an engine can improve fuel economy by 1%-2%.” Properly inflating your tires can improve your mileage by an average of .6% but possibly up to 3%. 4. Detect potential problems When caught early, big, expensive problems aren’t so big and expensive. Many potential issues are noticed during routine maintenance and can be addressed promptly. 5. Extend the life of the vehicle If you care for something properly it will last, and commercial vehicles are no exception. Here’s some helpful advice from <a href="https://www.progressive.com/answers/how-many-miles-does-a-car-last/#:~:text=A%20conventional%20car%20can%20last,help%20extend%20your%20car's%20longevity.">Progressive:</a> “Experts recommend scheduling routine maintenance for your vehicle, including annual engine cleaning to extend its life and regular car washing to prevent corrosion. Vacuuming the interior removes dirt and debris that can lead to tears in the fabric.” 6. Comply with regulations Regular maintenance ensures that your commercial vehicles meet safety and environmental regulations, avoiding potential fines and penalties. 7. Promote your brand Dependable companies have dependable vehicles. It’s important to maintain a brand that promotes reliability and diligence. The last thing you want is for your cargo van or truck to break down because of an issue that could have easily been avoided with proper routine maintenance. 8. Increase the value of your vehicle A properly maintained commercial vehicle will go a long way with potential buyers if you’re looking to sell down the road. This includes <a href="https://www.autotrader.com/car-tips/3-reasons-your-cars-service-records-are-essential">keeping service records</a>, which provide proof that you’ve taken good care of your vehicle. 9. Maintain vehicle warranty Saving detailed records of all types of maintenance will also come in handy when it comes to your warranty. The <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/auto-warranties-service-contracts">Federal Trade Commission</a> recommends keeping a file to track all repairs (oil changes, new brake pads, inspections — essentially everything),explaining that “if you ever have a warranty claim and it appears that you didn’t maintain your vehicle, your claim might be denied.” 10. Peace of mind Knowing your commercial vehicles are regularly inspected and in good condition gives you peace of mind and confidence in your business operations. When all is said and done, taking proper care of your vehicle helps ensure that it stays in excellent condition. Be meticulous and promptly schedule routine checks. This maintenance is intended to go a long way in prioritizing the safety of your driver and those around them, and in preserving the lifespan of your vehicle. __________________________________________________________________________________________ Article Author: Dawn McQueeney Dawn McQueeney serves as Marketing Manager at <a href="https://www.merchantsauto.cars/">Merchants Auto</a>. Joining in 2020, she brings with her more than 15 years of marketing experience, and originally started as a Marketing Coordinator. McQueeney has helped elevate the customer experience in the dealership showroom so that every visit is positive.

Jul 20, 2023