Jul 14, 2020 • Carriers

GPS Devices for Trucks

GPS Devices for Trucks

Truck GPS navigation devices are different than the one you might use in your everyday car or truck. The screens are usually larger, sturdier for everyday use, and offer more advanced, but necessary, features truck drivers need to safely and efficiently make it to their destination. Here are some of the most common GPS devices that Truckers use in this day and age.

1. Garmin dezl 770LMT

Cost: Approximately $450-$500

Description: 7” HD screen with glass display.

Features: This trucking GPS navigation unit features a truck and trailers services directory, customized trucking routes, lifetime map updates, weigh station alerts, traffic and weather information, backup camera compatibility, and Bluetooth capabilities for hands-free use.

2. Rand McNally TND 520

Cost: Approximately $400

Description: 5” display screen.

Features: This trucking GPS navigation unit features updates on weather, fuel pricing, traffic, and travel centers along with assistance tracking fuel and mileage logs.

3. TruckWayGPS – Model 720

Cost: Approx $150

Description: large 7” touch screen display, with 800×400 pixels.

Features: This trucking GPS navigation unit provides drivers with current and up-to-date maps, 3D maps, as well as free maps for the US and Canada. You can even enter the weight and directions for your truck so you can get the best route for the type of load you’re hauling.

For many drivers, a GPS unit on its own isn’t enough to give them the information they want or need. Many drivers like to use supplementary apps to ensure they have their location and approach nailed down. Apps like Trucker Path offer additional information and features that GPS units simply don’t have (for only $9.99 a month),such as more information on truck stops, best places for truckers to get food, best places to stay the night, updates on whether stops are open, and even ratings from other truck drivers on what these places are like.

By Aldous Aldwin

TagsTruck Truck Driver truck drivers Owner Operator trucking GPS truck GPS Trucker Path Trucking Industry truck stops Truck driver tips Owner Operators Technology Trucking Tips

Trucking Authority [p]Trucking authority allows owner-operators an opportunity to be their own boss and potentially maximize earnings by hauling freight.[/p] [h2] Trucking Authority [/h2] [p] Trucking authority also known as operating authority means the FMCSA will allow you to transport freight as a motor carrier. Let's say you've been a company driver for over a decade now or that you're a leased owner operator and want to start your own trucking company. Getting your trucking authority is the next step. [/p] [p]Essentially, you will be on your own to find and book loads giving you the freedom to search on load boards for truckloads that are the best fit for you. This allows you to set your own schedule, decide what type of loads you want to haul and what routes you want to take. [/p] [h2] Trucking Authority Requirements [/h2] [p]Trucking authority requirements are implemented by the FMCS trough the Unified Registration System (URS)for new applicants seeking trucking authority.To get trucking authority you will need to register through the <a href="https://portal.fmcsa.dot.gov/UrsRegistrationWizard/">Unified Registration System</a> first. [/p] [p]It will take about 20-25 business days to process according to the FMCSA (unless subject to further review by the agency, in which case it could take an additional eight weeks). [/p] [h2] Types of Trucking Authority [/h2] [p] The different types of authority will affect the type of insurance a carrier will need to meet the requirements of the FMCSA. [/p] [ul] [li] Motor Carrier of Property - requires proof of public liability and cargo insurance [/li] [li] Motor Carrier of Household Goods - doesn't require cargo insurance [/li] [/ul] [p] Regardless of the type of authority, you will need to complete this <a href="https://cms.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/op-1-instructions.pdf">OP-1 form</a> to file for trucking authority. [/p] [h2] Trucking Authority Requires Insurance [/h2] [p] In order to get your authority the FMCSA requires you to provide proof of insurance that you have liability coverage. Your insurance agency will need to submit form BMC-91 which covers public liability in case of an accident causing injury or property damage.[/p] [p]Remember DO NOT submit your proof of insurance directly to the FMCSA. The FMCSA requires that your insurance company submit the form and insurance certificate on your behalf.[/p] [h2]Trucking Authority Cost [/h2] [p]The tucking authority cost is a $300 filing fee that is associated with registering for the FMCSA URS. [/p] [p]Before you start booking loads to haul, there are additional costs and fees. When you're ready, explore our detailed guide that is sure to help you <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/how-to-start-a-trucking-company/">start your own trucking company</a>.[/p] [button-green href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/how-to-start-a-trucking-company/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=authorityJuly27" width="250px"]How to Start a Trucking Company[/button-green]

Jul 27, 2017 • Carriers

Understanding Team Truck Driving [p]Trucking is a hectic job that entails adhering to DOT / HOS regulations which ultimately means you need to stop at some point to comply with the maximum driving hours. With these regulations some truckers often opt to drive with a partner to maximize efficiency. Team truck driving allows one driver to rest while the other one drives. The drivers can switch places with each other multiple times over a journey so that more distance can be covered while time is saved. [/p] [p]While some truckers love this concept, others prefer to drive solo. In any case, team driving has its perks, and they are significant enough not to be overlooked. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]How Does Driving With a Partner Work? [/b][/p] [p]The job is pretty straightforward. One driver drives while the other rests, eats, and sleeps. Each driver has their own duty-time set on a schedule, so there are no arguments regarding shift timings. This significantly reduces the time needed to haul loads from one point to another, and hence that results in better pay. Both drivers receive the benefits of the entire job even when they are spending half their time doing it.[/p] [p]It is easy to judge from the brief discussion above that team driving has its benefits, but it also has its disadvantages. [/p] [p][b]Advantages of Team Trucking [/b][/p] [p]It should be clear by now that for people who love to socialize and work at the same time, team truck driving is the best job to have. You rarely get bored, you always have a partner to keep you entertained and you don’t have to share meals with strangers while you are sitting at a truck stop in the middle of nowhere. But these are just a few perks. Trucking with a partner can result in a lot more advantages. [/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>More Available Jobs </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]Trucking with a partner is like having opened up a new skill that qualifies you and your partner to apply for jobs that would otherwise be unavailable to you if each of you were driving solo. Trucking companies like to save time and love efficiency, which is why they admire the concept of team driving. They are willing to pay you more just so you deliver the goods faster. Moreover, team trucking is a great stepping stone for you if you want to go solo in the future. Partnering up with an experienced campaigner will allow you to access high-paid jobs with relatively zero experience. Once you have the necessary hours and skill needed to go solo, you can end terms with your partner and start your gig.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-2.jpg" alt=""] <li><strong>Consistent Income </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]Team driving is a more attractive package for trucking companies. They know they can rely on a team to deliver faster than a solo driver. They say two heads are better than one and that sometimes holds true for trucking. If there are two drivers, there will be more driving than resting and that would mean hopping from one assignment to another. All in all, you will be making more money and that too consistently.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Disadvantages of Team Trucking [/b][/p] [p]While the advantages are tempting, especially for an upcoming young driver, some veterans prefer to drive alone, and they have some good reasons for it. [/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>The Profits Are Split </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]The term team driving is simple to understand. You drive as a team, and that means you equally share the spoils between each other. So while the idea of trucking with a partner seems tempting, it is not might not be feasible in the long-run, especially if you are in it for the money.[/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>Undesirable Partner</strong> </li> <h2></h2> [p]Let's face it. It is not easy to spend a considerable amount of time with another person in a small space, especially if you don't like them. Your partner has to be entertaining or compatible with your level of thinking. If not, it can be very hard to pass time or trust your teammate with the job at hand.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-3.jpg" alt=""] <li><strong>Trouble Sleeping</strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]As a truck driver, you have been trained not to fall asleep while driving long distances. And now, you have to fall asleep once your shift ends when your partner takes over the wheel. This could be challenging especially if you are not used to sleeping when needed to. Also, you might need to get used to sleeping while listening to some up beat music while your partner drives.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Closing Thoughts [/b][/p] [p]Team truck driving is a highly attractive opportunity for new drivers who are looking to add miles and for old drivers who are looking for a partner since they are unable to drive solo. The pay is not that good, but the work is consistent. So team truck driving is recommended until you feel you have the experience to drive your semi or if you are a husband and wife team who love spending time on the road and enjoy an adventure more than the pay. Are you a team driver? Do you have tips for people who want to try team driving? Let us know on the comments.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Nov 20, 2020 • Carriers

Tips to Maximize Your Trucker Path Experience

Jul 22, 2020 • Carriers