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 - Maurice Bey <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/2020/08/mau2.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Maurice</strong>, who’s been an in-state driver for four years. He also has a Youtube channel called, “The Helpful Trucker”, where he gives some helpful tips as he shares his experiences on the road. Let’s get to know more about Maurice and his life as a trucker. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> Well, I didn't choose this life, this life chose me. I love driving and I love being behind the wheel. A few years ago, my pop's (a lifelong trucker) health started declining. He came to me and said, "Hey I need you to get your CDL because I need to put someone else in my truck." So I went to CDL school, got my Class A and I've been driving for him ever since. <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've only been in the industry for 4 years now, but I'm the son of a lifelong trucker and many of my close relatives are truckers, which means I've been exposed to the industry literally all my life. And I remember relatives and family that used to drive WITHOUT a chauffeur's license. I remember when my dad would go back several days and alter, I mean "update" his paper log books retroactively. And I remember when my uncle's and my dad's friends used to talk about running up and down the road all night, non stop, unregulated. One could argue that all that regulation overall HAS made the roads safer. But one could also argue that all that regulation has made things less profitable, particularly for little guys. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/mau3.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the story of you becoming "The Helpful Trucker"? Do you also have a name for your truck?</strong></h3> On YouTube, I call myself "The Helpful Trucker" because in life I'm a helpful guy. So many people nowadays only want to be helpful if it benefits them. My philosophy, which is offering people real value without necessarily expecting anything in return, is attractive and has a natural way of pulling the right people, resources and opportunities towards you. I call my truck Nat... short for International (which is what I drive). <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I'm an in-state driver and I go home every night. So I don't experience loneliness, plus I love my alone time. I need it to maintain my sanity. LOL. <h2></h2> I spend a majority of my time behind the wheel listening to podcasts about business, entrepreneurship, economics, marketing and mindset. My truck is a rolling university for me. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/mau4.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> Keeping my miles up as an in-state driver. My work has definitely slowed significantly. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your usual routes? Favorite scenic truck route?</strong></h3> My usual truck routes generally speaking are either Interstate 64 or Interstate 95 in the Richmond,Virginia area. My favorite scenic truck route is 64 west out of Richmond. I love the mountainous scenery. <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> I don't use truck stops very much, but when I do, I look for familiarity. I'm a very routine kind of guy. I don't have a favorite truck stop meal. I'm not a big fan of road food... that stuff will kill you! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> I encounter a lot of faulty equipment, especially trailers, which belong to the carrier I pull for, not me. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> People, especially truckers, not being courteous to other truckers and only looking out for themselves. But I get it though. This economy can make you chase money to the point that you're only thinking about yourself and your own situation and not considering others. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How did Trucker Path help you in your day to day trucking?</strong></h3> The main thing <a href="https://truckerpath.com/">Trucker Path</a> has helped me with so far is supplying me with a trucker friendly GPS. My standard GPS has put me on routes that I'm not supposed to be on more than once! And that's a scary feeling. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Safety tip: Triple check everything. <h2></h2> Getting a job tip: Know your contract front and back; ask as many questions as you feel you need to. Don't allow yourself to get locked in to anything that is not in your best interest long term. <h2></h2> Career tip: Get your money right as quickly as possible. Give yourself the option to get from behind the wheel as soon as possible. Driving a rig, just like most careers is A LOT more fun when you're doing it because you want to instead of because you have to. <h2></h2> <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/user/mauricebey7">Youtube Channel, The Helpful Trucker.</a> <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PGIeHtM9dng" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; 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>

Aug 12, 2020 • Carriers

How to Kick-off your Trucking Career [p]If you like road trips and you get excited by the idea of earning money while living ‘life on the road’ then trucking is for you. Trucking is one of the biggest industries in the world and extremely important for the survival and efficient function of an economy. As such, trucking not only helps support the economy, but also helps build it. At the moment around <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/trucking-industry-facts-us-truckers-2019-5-1028248577#truck-drivers-earn-less-than-most-americans-in-terms-of-annual-income10">6% of all the jobs available in the U.S are in the trucking industry</a> with more than 7 million people working in the industry right now. The number is growing each year as dependency on trucking increases.[/p] [p]That sounds like an industry where the future is secure and employment guaranteed if you are good at the job. Sounds good right? It sure does but before you can get anywhere near a truck you need to fulfill some obligations like getting a license, choosing a trucking company, and more. Follow the steps below to get started with your stint as a truck driver. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/2-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Make Up Your Mind [/b][/p] [p]It is extremely important to get yourself mentally ready before even thinking about getting a license. Trucking sounds exciting but the job is mentally and physically taxing. At times you are required to sleep at truck stops, in cheap motels, or inside your truck's cabin. There aren't many decent places to take a shower and you will eventually run into some dirty truck stops. You may also meet some rude people which will definitely test your patience. Most importantly, you are away from your family for lengthy periods. Therefore, never decide in haste. Sit down and think about it but once you make up your mind do not look back as only excitement and adventure come ahead.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/3.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Apply for a CDL[/b][/p] [p]The first step on the road to becoming a truck driver is to get a commercial driving license (CDL). The CDL is divided into three main categories in North America: [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/cdl_types.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p]If your goal is to become a big-rig driver then you need a Class A license. To get that you need to enter into a trucking school. This institute is much like a driving school except in a trucking school you are taught advanced methods of driving a large vehicle. There you will be required to practice and hone your skills both in the classroom and on the field. Generally, trucking school starts at $3,000 for a beginner program. You may avoid paying the whole cost of the trucking school by availing of some financial aid options. If you sign with a carrier before graduation, they may cover some of your educational expenses. Some schools in areas with trucker shortages may also offer scholarships to its students. You are eligible to apply for a Class A license once you have completed at least 160 hours or roughly 10 weeks of training. [/p] [p]Once you have that many hours under your belt simply go to a state-mandated testing facility, pass your test with flying colors and you are good to go. Afterward, you need to go to the licensing authority in your state where you will be required to show your identification, proof of state residency, your Social Security Number (SSN),and proof of passing the CDL exam. The training program for a CDL can last for 3 to 4 weeks so if you are motivated you can get started with your trucking career within a matter of months. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/4.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Pick A Trucking Company[/b][/p] [p]The next step in your road to becoming a truck driver is choosing a good trucking company. There are many good local and national companies across America. That is a good thing because you have the power to choose and differentiate between various trucking companies. As such you should always look for renowned companies that have a good name in the industry. The last thing you want is to end up in a trucking company that is not financially stable and that doesn’t provide you with job perks. [/p] [p]A good company may provide you with health insurance, life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave pay, and more. So choose wisely but don’t waste too much time stalling![/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/5.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Accept the First Good Job [/b][/p] [p]Most newcomers in the trucking industry waste time by waiting for the right opportunity, the “perfect route”. But that is not advisable. You are a fresh trucker who has just gotten his/her license. It is better to get some and any experience under your belt as soon as possible. Ultimately, the number of hours you spend driving will help you in the future to move up the ladder to better trucking companies. That can also lead to better job perks, better opportunities as a trucker, and a handsome salary. If you wait, a very good trucking contract may come your way but that is a rare possibility. By then, your peers would have moved further up the ladder on to greener pastures while you start late and experience the grit of a newcomer in a tough industry. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final Thoughts[/b][/p] [p]It is not very hard to get into the trucking business if you have the right mindset and you are motivated. Yes, you may face financial burdens in the beginning but seeing that the <a href="https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/06/america-keeps-on-trucking.html#:~:text=More%20than%203.5%20million%20people,occupations%20in%20the%20United%20States.">average trucker</a> makes $50,000 - $60,000 per year the initial burden might not feel a lot to bear. However, you would have to spend time away from family but in the end, all of this is worth the effort. The trucking industry is here to stay and you can make the most of it while having a grand adventure and enjoying the magnificent views in your big rig! [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Sep 08, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Path integrates with McLeod TMS [p]Trucker Path Truckloads has integrated with McLeod TMS to provide more efficient freight posting.[/p] [p]Trucker Path, creators of America’s most popular apps in the trucking industry, announced that its freight-matching marketplace Truckloads is now integrated with McLeod TMS Software – an advanced transportation management software for carriers, brokers, and shippers.[/p] [quote]“The integration of the McLeod Software system within Truckloads allows our mutual customers a simplified upload process to display their freight for the hard to reach over-the-road drivers that depend on mobile technology to find available loads,” said Leigh Foxall, Vice President of Sales at Trucker Path.[/quote] [p]With this integration, McLeod users can post freight directly to the Truckloads platform through the McLeod TMS where over 85,000 qualified carriers in Truckloads can access them.[/p] [quote]“McLeod Software is always in search of ways to make the process of offering loads to carriers more streamlined and efficient,” said Robert Brothers, Manager of Product Development at McLeod.[/quote] [quote]“For this reason, we believe the Truckloads platform will be a perfect fit with our software. Partnering with Trucker Path will keep us more intimately connected with our customers’ needs.”[/quote] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/04/truckloads-mockup-computer-1.png" alt=""] [p]Publicly released in March 2016, Truckloads freight platform is available on both web and mobile via the app which has over 300,000 installs across iOS and Android devices – the most of any mobile load board app. Truckloads features over 2.5 million monthly loads and its network of carriers, brokers, and shippers have experienced a steady 20 percent monthly growth rate.[/p] [quote]“The innovative Truckloads freight platform, allows companies to post freight without paying a monthly fee, contributing to its success as the fastest growing load board in the industry,” Foxall said.[/quote] [quote]“This new integration is significant in providing greater efficiencies for McLeod users, furthering Truckloads advancements compared to its competitors.”[/quote] [p]Carriers and brokers can use Truckloads network free of charge, with customized freight searches for carriers including eight different filtering criteria, unlimited access to premium loads as well as the ability to view a broker's’ credit score and days to pay. Mobile Truckloads users can make calls inquiring about a load directly from the app.[/p] [p]Carriers can also receive push notifications sent directly to their mobile devices when new loads match their criteria. Meanwhile, brokers can easily access information on the number of times a specific load has been viewed by a carrier to assist in moving freight faster and more efficiently.[/p]

Apr 13, 2017 • Brokers