Jan 08, 2021 • Carriers

How to Grow Your Hard Earned Money in Trucking

How to Grow Your Hard Earned Money in Trucking

There are at least 3 ways to “grow” one’s hard earned money in trucking:

1. earn more for what you do as a trucker;

2. earn a second income from the cab of one’s truck; and

3. put your money in an investment that lets it grow while you’re driving.

The majority of truckers are paid by the mile or by the task, meaning that they are trading their time for money.

There are a lot of “time wasters” associated with trucking, including:

detention at shipper and receiver locations;

waiting for loads;

road construction;

bad weather and storms;

bottlenecks and congestion;

mechanical breakdowns;

accidents (both preventable and not preventable); and

time that the Hours of Service regulations force truckers to wait without getting paid.

Seek to reduce or eliminate as many of these time wasters as possible.

Regarding earning more money for what you do, you can:

make yourself available to drive during all hours when you legally can drive;

develop a good relationship with those in your trucking company who assign loads, including your driver manager;

develop good relationships with mechanics in your trucking company’s shop, so that they will perform maintenance or repairs on your truck in a timely manner;

be friendly with everyone with whom you come in contact, including guards and lumpers;

work for a trucking company that values your experience and will pay you accordingly; and

perform with excellence all of the tasks assigned to you, so that you will develop a good reputation and be worthy of getting more miles or being assigned higher paying tasks.

Seek to pay off all that you owe as you buy things, so that you don’t have to pay credit card interest.

If you don’t have a budget, begin by using our “spending diary” (free download) for a minimum of 30 days so that you track where you are spending money.

From there, set up a budget, including what you save.

When the time is right, put your savings into:

either an interest-bearing account of some kind;

or investments that are most likely to grow.

Two ways to save more money as a trucker include:

preparing and eating as many meals as possible in your truck; and

resisting the urge to spend money on non-critical things.

We provide 35+ free downloads through our site.

To get them instantly by email, sign up through the form on the page listed below and confirm your subscription:

https://www.truck-drivers-money-saving-tips.com/free-downloads.html

On behalf of my husband Mike and me, we wish all professional truck drivers safe travels and lots of money saving opportunities on the road.

By Vicki Simons

https://www.truck-drivers-money-saving-tips.com/

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

Trucker Spotlight - Kristy Mathews <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/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Kristy Mathews</strong>, who's one of the three recently crowned Queens of the Road by <a href="http://www.realwomenintrucking.com/">Real Women In Trucking</a>. She's a 36yr-old, born and raised Minnesotan trucking influencer, who isn't scared to take on any job. Big or small she's done it all. Let's get to know more about Kristy and how it's like to be Queen of the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I always had a fascination with the big trucks and machinery we used in the family companies. From the 1st time I got to ride in the truck, I knew that's what i wanted to. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What were some challenges that you faced when you started out trucking? </strong></h3> When I first started driving, I definitely was looked at like I couldn't do it. I was an 18yr old 90lb woman fresh out of high school, but I showed them I had what it would take. I've been looked at as an underdog and its a daily reminder of all the things I was told I couldn't do and I've prevailed through thick and thin. This is my dream and I'll do whatever it takes to succeed. Especially if it's empowering more women to do something they thought they could never do. Positive vibes and strides to the ultimate goal. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you've been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> Biggest noticeable changes I've noticed in the industry is lack of common sense and respect for others. We are all in this together like a family once upon a time and now it's all about your 15 seconds of fame on bashing others. I hate what its come to and I always try to instill that brotherhood/sisterhood as much as possible. We need that back, we need to have each other's back. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I don't have times of loneliness because I'm an introvert. I love the isolation in my truck and all the time to myself. That's also how I think of my next big move in life. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves</strong></h3> I have a lot of trucking peeves but I would like to think of the positives and not get set back by something I can't change. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Being Queen of the Road, how would you want to change or improve on the current situation of the trucking industry?</strong></h3> If I could change or improve current situations in the industry, it would have to be getting our voices heard across the board from big things like rules regulations and HOS, to increasing truck parking so drivers can have a restful sleep and safe havens. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What keeps you busy nowadays? How did the current Covid-19 situation affect your trucking life?</strong></h3> Work keeps me plenty busy. I work hard so I can play harder. I love taking vacations. It is something I never grew up doing with my family so now I'm living my best life. Covid-19 hasn't really affected me all that much. I've been to every hot spot delivering medical supplies. If anything, it was humbling in the beginning knowing I'm doing something to help and these loads were needed, but it's honestly no different than any other day. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your future career plans? Would you continue to be a trucker? Any plans on being an instructor?</strong></h3> Looking into my future, it's my goal to get my non-profit initiative started. Breast cancer screening is a big deal (has deep meaning to me) and I want to be able to help females in the trucking industry get the screenings they need more conveniently, more affordable options for preventative care, mastectomies, and down time since we all know if the wheels aren't turning you ain't earning. Also part of it, I'd like to help females wanting to come into the industry with grants to get them schooling they need to succeed, and graduating high school students scholarships to anyone wanting to go into the medical field. I have some big dreams and goals I plan to achieve. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Favorite truck model?</strong></h3> I'd love to own, restore, and drive a 1957 Mack B61 twin stick. If i had time and a lot of extra money, that would be my dream right there. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your must haves or the things that you bring with you when on the road?</strong></h3> My best must haves are an atlas, <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path app</a>, and my phone. I like to keep it simple. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring women truckers?</strong></h3> Women wanting to delve into this industry should not come in with an "I am woman hear me roar" BS attitude. We are all in this together, doing this together. The best way to succeed is to be humble, strong, thick skinned, and help others asking for help. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <em>Got a cool story to share? Send us message at community@truckerpath.com to be featured!</em> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Sep 04, 2020 • Carriers

How to Start a Hotshot Trucking Business [p]Ever wondered how to be your own boss while enjoying beautiful sceneries across America? The freight industry is the backbone of America’s economy contributing more than <a href="https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/gdp-from-transport">500 billion USD</a> every quarter and the numbers are increasing each year. It’s a lucrative industry which gives handsome rewards. However, it is not easy getting into traditional trucking due to the requirements needed.[/p] [p]What if there was a way to be a part of the trucking industry without dealing with all the hassle? The good news is there is a sure-fire way of being a part of the trucking industry and you can get started in a few days. What is it, you ask? The answer to that question is “Hotshot Trucking”. But there are still a few requirements before you are eligible to haul freight. Fortunately, these requirements are easy to complete and we will explain everything step by step below. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]What is Hotshot trucking? [/b][/p] [p]Hotshot truck drivers are freelancers who work privately carrying freight from one point to the other without any employer restrictions or scheduling restrictions. In other words, you are your boss and you can choose when to earn and how much to earn. All you need is a medium or heavy-duty truck with at least 7,000 pounds of hauling force and a trailer. A Dodge Ram 3500, a Toyota Tacoma, or any version of the Ford F-series truck can work well. [/p] [p]Currently, around 70% of the goods you can find on the shelves are transported by hotshot truckers and independent freight transporters. According to estimates, the trucking industry is expected to grow by 2.3% yearly till 2024. With freight volumes increasing day by day it is the perfect time to set up your own hotshot trucking business. [/p] [p][b]Pros and cons of Hotshot Trucking?[/b][/p] [p]Hotshot Trucking comes with a lot of advantages especially if you want to kick-off your trucking business easily. But be wary also of some limitations and trade-offs when entering this kind of trucking business. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-pros_and_cons_table.png" alt=""] [p][b]How to Begin?[/b][/p] [p]Now that you have a basic idea of hotshot trucking let’s get started on the specifics: [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Set up an LLC[/b][/p] [p]You need to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and register it with your state. This is the first step in registering your business and it doesn't matter if you are working alone or if you intend to invite others to join in with you, setting up a legal company gives you many <a href="https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/advantages-of-an-llc">benefits</a> such as:[/p] <ul> <li>Limited personal liability</li> <li>Less paperwork</li> <li>Tax advantages</li> <li>Ownership and Management flexibility</li> <li>Flexible profit distribution</li> </ul> [p][b]Register With the Tax Authorities [/b][/p] [p]Once you have your LLC set up, the next step is to get a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/taxpayer-identification-numbers-tin">Tax ID</a> to go with your business. The tax ID or the Employer Identification Number (EIN) will allow you to receive checks and other forms of payments directly to your business account. That takes us to our next step. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-make_a_business_bank_account.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Make a Business Bank Account[/b][/p] [p]A separate bank account will allow you to divert all your business-related transactions to your business bank account. This allows you to keep track of your expenditures while also giving you the liberty to make and receive payments.[/p] [p][b]Apply for a CDL (optional)[/b][/p] [p]Hotshot trucking does not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) since in most cases you won’t be exceeding the gross weight limit determined by the authorities. [/p] [p]You don’t need a CDL if: [/p] <ul> <li>If the total weight you are pulling is less than 10,000 pounds.</li> <li>If the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer is less than 26,000 pounds. </li> </ul> [p]Getting a CDL is no easy task. You have to enlist in a reputable training academy, go through several weeks of training, and then apply as well as pass the CDL exam. Therefore, it is better to forego this requirement in the early stages of your business but its best to acquire the license once your business is up and running. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-acquire_relevant_equipment-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Acquire Relevant Equipment [/b][/p] [p]As you know, hotshot trucking involves a lot of hauling and towing. It is important to have a sturdy and reliable truck if you want to save yourself a lot of grief later. You will need a good medium to heavy-duty truck with a lot of power (around 400HP) to pull at least a ton and a 30 ft. gooseneck flatbed trailer to begin. A decent truck can cost from $15,000 to $60,000. A good trailer costs from $7,000 to $25,000. It is up to you to decide how much you want to invest in the business initially. If you already have a truck at home and you don’t intend to get a CDL right away then you can save money by buying a cheap trailer and starting your business with minimum investment. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Further Government Approvals [/b][/p] [p]It is a good idea to register your business with the Department of Transport (DOT) in your state and also with the federal authority if you intend to drive interstate. The state will provide you a DOT number and the federal government authority will give you a Motor Carrier (MC) number. These numbers must be emblazoned on the side of your vehicle. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-getting_your_first_order.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Getting Your First Order [/b][/p] [p]It’s often difficult to get your first order but there are resources available online that can help you out. You can sign-up and keep an eye out for potential contracts using <a href="https://truckerpath.com/truckloads/free-load-board/">loadboards</a>, which is an online marketplace where truck owner-operators, shippers, and freight brokers can post and search for loads. If a contract fits your requirements you can sign-up with them and begin your hotshot trucking journey. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Conclusion [/b][/p] [p]It is not easy to start a business from scratch and accept profits from the get-go. However, if you work hard, complete all the requirements and stay motivated, you can slice through the initial difficulties and begin expanding and earning handsomely all while being your own boss. [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Oct 09, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Natasha <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/2020/12/ts-natasha-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Natasha</strong>, who's a 27 year-old trucker/Youtuber and was born and raised in Hawaii. She's been driving for 1.5 years as a team owner operator together with her husband. She likes to make people laugh and smile through her Youtube videos. She and her husband are team owner operators. Let's get to know more about Natasha and her trucking adventures. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> From watching other Youtuber truckers on youtube actually! At that time, me and my husband had nothing to lose but sell everything we owned and join the trucking world. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-natasha-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <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> Since I haven't been driving long enough, the one thing I have noticed is that the trucking industry is getting bigger by the day! Theres so many diverse truckers, you have to stay open minded dealing with everyone across the country on a daily basis. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> I've always filmed random Youtube videos since I was 16 on old channels. I was bored one day trucking and uploaded one for fun, and slowly more people watched and asked me to post more. So thats how it snowballed into me uploading videos full time now! I wanted to post videos to help other truckers with owner operator questions I had when I first started. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Since I'm always with my husband, I'd appreciate some alone time, but I'm always grateful that we have each other. Sometimes, i miss my family and friends since it can be hard to see them. Having my little toy fox terrier dog with me has really made trucking it best! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-natasha-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> The hardest thing so far for us during COVID is food. Most fast food places did and still are closing the lobby and only opening drive through which we definitely cant go through. Also many restaurants closed all together, in the beginning especially we ended up eating canned soups, ramen, TV dinners, etc a lot. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model?</strong></h3> I like the newest Freightliner Cascadia's interior features the best, the outside is slick too, but my favorite thing is they made every tiny thing very user friendly and more livable. We had an older Freightliner before. It's WAY different in their new ones. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-natasha-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> I started investing in real estate a few years ago. I only own 1 house so far, but plan on continuing to build my portfolio over the years to come. Also, I dream of being a mom one day to a lot of kids and dogs! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> Russells in NM is one of the coolest - it has a car museum inside. We like Quicktrips, and Mavericks, their fuel is usually the lowest in their area, and they're clean and have good food. Many Jack Flashes are brand new and have tons of food options and a shop inside. Of course we found all these stops on Trucker Path! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> For us it's learning the different trucking seasons of the year and how it affects our rates, each season we have to adjust the routes we do in order to do well. Also, since I drive night shift, finding a place to stop for a break or sleep is the most difficult thing sometimes, it's crowded out here for trucks! The other thing is finding a decent bathroom/shower or any at all, sometimes I have to just toughen up! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> Regular car drivers! They're always chillin in your blind spots not paying attention, and of course they like to cut in front of trucks really fast which is always a dangerous situation. We have to drive and break so differently than regular cars, so driving around a lot of cars can be stressful. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucker essentials?</strong></h3> My morning travel bag I found on Amazon, it's big and I need it 2x per day so it has everything I need when I first wake up to right before I go to sleep. Another trucker essential is having everything in the truck as mini sized as possible since our space is limited. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> As owner ops, we use the <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a>'s fuel prices the most! Secondary to that would be the restaurant tab to see what food is at each stop. Then, the trip planner to find stops along your route is very cool, especially when going cross country twice a week like we usually do, its a long trip to plan! [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-natasha-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strongWhat are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Be patient and stick with it, everything will be 200% harder at first, but eventually even the smallest things will get easier and better almost without trying. You will feel very rewarded after some time, and it all will be worth it! <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/channel/UCXtbBerWrhRFN7E-aJ-5M7g">Youtube Channel, Natasha Trucking</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vY6NQ5-x6Qo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; 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>

Dec 11, 2020 • Carriers