Jun 05, 2024

Highest-Rated Major US Trucking Corridors

Highest-Rated Major US Trucking Corridors

We ranked the major US trucking corridors of 2023 based on parking availability, truck stop ratings, and fuel prices. Below is what we found.

Trucker Path Levels the Playing Field Between Large and Smaller Brokerages <p><em>New Trucker Path for Brokerages offering enables small to mid-size freight brokers to dispatch, track and manage their loads while growing and retaining robust carrier networks</em> </p> <p><strong>PHOENIX – April 03, 2024</strong> – 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 Trucker Path for Brokerages. The new offering will enable small to mid-size freight brokers to dispatch, track and manage loads more efficiently and effectively to better compete against larger, more resource-rich brokerages. </p> <p>“Built for small to mid-size brokers, Trucker Path for Brokerages greatly simplifies the process of dispatching, tracking and managing loads awarded to carriers by freight brokers,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “By enabling significantly enhanced visibility into load location and status, it improves productivity and shipper satisfaction and streamlines processes to simplify operations. Trucker Path for Brokerages will help smaller brokers differentiate themselves and compete for carriers and customers like their larger competitors.” </p> <p>Trucker Path for Brokerages enables small to mid-size brokers to enjoy advanced features that streamline the interactions between the broker and carrier while making them both more efficient and productive. Providing their own customized version of the Trucker Path app to their carrier network gives brokers the ability to dispatch load details directly to drivers and track the progress of loads via an easy-to-use dashboard. Once deliveries are completed, the driver captures and uploads paperwork using the document scanner in the app for immediate processing. </p> <p>“The value of Trucker Path for Brokerages extends beyond replacing cumbersome, manual, time consuming and error-prone freight management and paperwork processes for freight brokers and their customers,” Oliver stated. “For small to mid-size brokers, it also increases efficiencies and carrier satisfaction. </p> <p>“Carriers also benefit from all the productivity tools the Trucker Path app offers the nearly 1 million North American truckers who already rely on the app regularly for truck-safe navigation, destination entry/exit guidance, real-time parking availability, fuel discounts, and more,” Oliver added. “It helps make life on the road safer, easier and more productive for drivers while also helping improve recruiting and retention for brokers.” </p> <p>Trucker Path for Brokerages is available to small to mid-size freight brokers at very affordable pricing. More details can be found at <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com/for-brokerages">www.truckerpath.com/for-brokerages</a>. Brokers attending the TIA 2024 Capital Ideas Conference April 10 - 13, 2024 can visit the Trucker Path booth #116 for more information. </p> <p><strong>About Trucker Path</strong> </p> <p>Phoenix-based Trucker Path, the provider of a wide range of truck driver-centric mobility products, is a subsidiary of leading global SaaS provider, Moatable, Inc. (NYSE:MTBL). The Trucker Path app is currently used regularly 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 and discounts, 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 <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">www.truckerpath.com</a>. </p> <p><strong>Media Contact:</strong> </p> <p>Susan Fall </p> <p>LaunchIt Public Relations </p> <p>619-890-9415 </p> <p>susan@launchitpr.com </p>

Apr 03, 2024

Understanding and Combating Cargo Theft in the US <p>2023 was a year that saw a skyrocket in cargo theft across the United States, with a <a href="https://www.ccjdigital.com/business/article/15638346/cargo-theft-up-59-in-third-quarter">59% increase</a> in the third quarter of 2023 as compared to 2022. As we continue to witness this surge, cargo theft continues to pose a significant threat to the logistics and transportation industry. </p> <p>As cargo is being stolen at an alarming rate and is <a href="https://www.truckersnews.com/home/article/15661462/2023-rewind-cargo-theft-exploded-last-year-expect-more-of-the-same-in-2024">forecasted to get worse in 2024</a>, it is important for truck drivers, brokers, and carriers alike to take precautionary measures against cargo theft. Let’s take a look at what cargo theft entails, the different ways it occurs, and some proactive measures to secure freight. </p> <p><strong>What is Cargo Theft?</strong> </p> <p>Cargo theft, which refers to the act of stealing goods being transported by trucks, rail, or other means, can occur in a variety of ways. The stolen cargo can range from a variety of goods, although research has shown that the top targeted commodities are <a href="https://www.overdriveonline.com/business/article/15635411/cargo-theft-continues-to-skyrocket-in-2023">food and beverage and electronics.</a> </p> <p><strong>Ways Cargo Can Be Stolen:</strong> </p> <p><strong>1. Hijacking and Forced Entry</strong> </p> <p>One of the most dangerous forms of cargo theft involves hijacking, where criminals force drivers to stop their trucks and surrender their cargo. This can occur on secluded stretches of highways or during scheduled stops. When cargo is hijacked, the drivers are often forced to open trailers and hand over the goods. </p> <p><strong>2. Break-ins During Driver Absence</strong> </p> <p>Unlike hijacking operations, cargo theft might not always be a high-stakes operation. Sometimes, thieves may opt for a less confrontational approach by breaking into trailers when drivers are away. This can happen during scheduled breaks or when trucks are parked overnight and unsuspecting drivers return to find their cargo missing. </p> <p><strong>3. Trailer Theft</strong> </p> <p>Some thieves go a step further by stealing the entire trailer and using their own trucks for a quick getaway. This method not only results in the financial loss of goods but also the significant setback of losing an entire trailer. <a href="https://www.ccjdigital.com/business/article/15448218/cargo-theft-up-41-so-far-this-year-expected-to-rise-for-memorial-day?__cf_chl_tk=ZlL6kCXke7QEJ3r6BK3zdD4ORAHF4pJspfblyNyBwdo-1706107383-0-gaNycGzNGNA">Full trailer theft</a> is becoming more common amidst heightened security measures. Now, stolen trailers are sometimes abandoned after the trailer has been unlocked and the cargo has been unloaded. </p> <p><strong>4. Fake Trucking Companies and Load Board Scams</strong> </p> <p>As on-the-road security has been increasing, criminals have become increasingly sophisticated by establishing fake trucking companies and engaging in <a href="https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/auto-motor/fraud-and-misdirection-schemes-drive-cargo-theft-surge-455858.aspx">misdirection fraud.</a> These thieves secure legitimate-looking contracts and loads, only to disappear with the cargo, leaving both companies and carriers in the lurch. An increase in this form of fraud has emphasized the need for enhanced verification and due diligence in the freight industry. </p> <p><strong>Tips to Secure Freight</strong> </p> <p><strong>1. Cargo Insurance</strong> </p> <p>With a greater increase in the inherent risks associated with cargo transportation, many shippers are turning to <a href="https://www.mikargo247.com/truckerpath">spot cargo insurance.</a> This type of insurance provides coverage for specific shipments on the spot on an ad-hoc basis, offering financial protection against losses resulting from theft, damage, or other unforeseen events. With cargo insurance, drivers now have a valuable financial safety net and this can also offer them some peace of mind when delivering goods. </p> <p><strong>2. Invest in Advanced Security Systems</strong> </p> <p>There has also been a massive move towards enhancing cargo security. This is largely through modern security practices, such as <a href="https://www.a1.digital/blog/digital-asset-tracking-in-logistics-security-efficiency-and-future-trends/">asset tracking</a> through GPS technology, geofencing, and real-time monitoring. These technologies allow shippers and carriers to keep a vigilant eye on their shipments and respond promptly to any deviations from the planned route or recover stolen goods promptly. </p> <p><strong>3. Strategic Route Planning</strong> </p> <p>Lastly, planning routes strategically can minimize exposure to high-risk areas prone to cargo theft. Especially now with the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI),there are route optimization tools that can help identify safer and more secure paths, avoiding regions with a history of criminal activity. </p> <p>As the freight industry in the US tackles the escalating challenge of cargo theft, there needs to be a more proactive and collaborative approach to mitigating cargo theft risks and safeguarding the logistics industry. </p>

Apr 18, 2024

Truckers Need to Consider Their Mental Health <p>Truckers are tough, hard-working, self-reliant and pragmatic by nature. They traditionally aren’t the types to acknowledge mental issues like depression, anxiety, loneliness or stress. </p> <p>It’s an unfortunate truth because trucking is stressful work and the demands of the job and lifestyle make it one of the hardest professions on mental health. A stark indicator of this is that the suicide rate among truckers is fifteen times higher than the general population, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7250a2.htm" target="_blank">according to CDC statistics.</a> </p> <p>If you’ve ever felt stressed, lonely, depressed, it’s not just you. </p> <p>May is mental health month and the perfect occasion for truckers to consider an issue that’s directly linked to their well-being, driving performance, relationships and livelihood. </p> <p>The long hours, isolation, frequent stress, exposure to traumatic traffic accidents, sleep deprivation, lack of exercise and poor diet that come with being a trucker take a toll. Truckers reported having significant mental health issues including depression (26.9%),loneliness (27.9%) and anxiety (14.5%) <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22757596/" target="_blank">in one often-cited study.</a> </p> <p>Mental health issues are common in trucking; ways of preventing them, treating them, and keeping them in check should be as well. Truckers are practical people. So what are some best practices that could help truckers when they feel their mental health is being strained? </p> <p><strong>Develop Tricks for Protecting Mental Health</strong> </p> <p><strong>• Stress</strong> – <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7312166/">Chronic stress has a strong link to depressive disorders.</a> For truckers, stress is everywhere and just part of everyday life on the road. Traffic, blind spots, delays, delivery appointments and other people’s moods come with the job. It’s important to have stress relief tricks. Will you practice deep breathing, <a href="https://www.truckerpath.com/blog/podcasts-feed-the-need-for-learning-laughter-and-inspiration-on-the-road/" target="_blank">listen to a great podcast</a>, list the things you’re grateful for, recite a mantra, say a prayer, sing a song or simply force yourself to smile? </p> <p><strong>• Depression</strong> – The conditions that can contribute to a depressive spiral include lack of sleep, lack of <a href="https://www.truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-tips-for-exercising-while-on-the-road/" target="_blank">exercise</a>, negative talk radio, depressants like alcohol, and poor diet. If you’re conscious of a downward mood trend, it’s possible to redirect toward things that lift you: happy music, a phone call with a friend, just focusing on happy memories. </p> <p><strong>• Anxiety</strong> – It happens to experienced drivers as well as new drivers. Irrational fear, hesitation or worry can be triggered by a bad experience – or nothing at all. Feelings of anxiety seem irrational, but they’re not to be ignored when they’re job related. The first step is acknowledgment, i.e. just accepting it’s an issue you’re going to have to work your way through. The second is addressing the issue – sometimes getting outside help is the most efficient way. </p> <p><strong>• Loneliness</strong> – Long haul drivers who spend days or weeks away from partners, children and friends know a very real form of pain. Prolonged isolation can take a toll on health – mental and physical. Develop tricks for nipping it in the bud. Have check in calls or texts with loved ones. Combat isolation by forcing yourself to say hello or strike up a conversation at truck stops. </p> <p><strong>Check in with Yourself – Do a Mental Pre-Trip</strong> </p> <p>Processes and best practices help truckers in other areas like doing pre-trip checks and adhering to routing guides, why not in assessing their mental health as well? </p> <p>Dr. Ronald C. Kessler developed a <a href="https://www.tac.vic.gov.au/files-to-move/media/upload/k10_english.pdf" target="_blank">10-point questionnaire</a> for rating mental distress. Truckers could use it as a quick reality check. He published the K10 survey while a professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School. K10 asks questions about anxiety and depressive symptoms experienced in preceding weeks. The score points to a level of psychological distress and whether a psychological disorder exists that should be addressed. </p> <p><strong>Know the Resources for Getting Help</strong> </p> <p>Don’t hesitate to get help. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for 24/7 support and crisis intervention. Trained professionals are there to talk. </p> <p><a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/prevention-innovation-and-implementation-science-in-mental-health-the-next-wave-of-reform/DEEF2114D5ECD233C6D5A1B1154F4E74" target="_blank">Experts say</a> the sooner you receive appropriate treatment for mental health issues the better both for the quality and speed of recovery. Counseling is easier and more accessible than ever for truckers on the road, thanks to telehealth providers who can administer counseling by video or phone. </p> <p>The number of companies like <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/" target="_blank">BetterHelp</a> and <a href="https://prod-sasidenrollment.azurewebsites.net/launch?refnumber=000020127-117-168" target="_blank">Teladoc</a> providing virtual counseling has increased as telemedicine has become more common. And <a href="https://www.smartandsimple.com/partners/trucker-path/" target="_blank">health insurance policies</a> often cover it. Some fleets offer their own counseling options to drivers or provide financial help through employee assistance programs (EAPs). </p> <p>Truckers can also turn to Facebook groups like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/TruckersForTruckers/" target="_blank">Truckers For Truckers (Fight Against Depression And Suicide).</a> With over 3,000 members, this group has been around for seven years. </p> <p><strong>It’s a Hard Job – Go Easy on Yourself</strong> </p> <p>Mental health awareness month is a chance for truckers experiencing loneliness, stress, depression or anxiety to learn “it’s not just you” and that the harder it gets in there, the more important it is to reach out for help. </p>

May 08, 2024