Mar 01, 2019 • Carriers

Industry Update - March 1, 2019

Industry Update - March 1, 2019

By Jeremy Feucht

Did you Know?

An engine in a semi is designed to run 24/7 for 1,000,000 miles before needing to be completely rebuilt.

Trucking tip of the Week

In the cold weather, increasing the air pressure in your tires is a good idea. This helps ensure that cold air does not affect the safety of your tires. In cold weather, air molecules huddle together thus reducing pressure. Be careful though not to over inflate your tires as it makes for an incredibly rough ride and reduces your control over the vehicle.

Weather

Good portions of the west and mid-west saw record breaking snow fall for the month of February. This snow fall shut down portions of highways through Washington, Oregon and Idaho in particular. However, these states have not called for Declarations of Emergency because it only affects a portion of the state. Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin, however, have all declared a State of Emergency due to a lack of fuel, heating oil and propane for its citizens because of the continued poor weather across their entire state. Propane carriers are usually exempted from hours of service rules this time of year anyway, but fuel haulers will now be granted this exemption until the middle of March.

Legislation

The age restriction for interstate driving may change 21 to 18. In a rare move of bipartisanship in both the US House and US Senate, a piece of legislation called the “DRIVE Safe Act” looks like it will be pushed through. The act itself does not simply opening the doors for those that are 18 to immediately go long haul, but that does not make it any less controversial. While it is endorsed heavily by the ATA to slow the increasing driver shortage, it still allows younger people, with significantly less driving experience, to drive dangerous vehicles. The legislation would require those under 21 to log significant hours both on duty and behind the wheel as an apprentice before being able to do so on their own. This is the same bill that was introduced in March of last year but has more backing this go around.

Intermodal and Trucking at Odds

Lobbyists for the intermodal transportation entities had a chance to have their voices heard this week in DC. Looking to head off the desire for bigger and heavier trucks hitting the roadways, rail and waterway experts were called upon for a hearing with the US Senate Transportation and Safety subcommittee. Members of the Senate subcommittee though did press back on some of the strategies that ocean liners are beginning to practice using such as “street turns.” A street turn is using the empty container that was picked up at port and using it to haul a load back towards, or even back to, the port.

TagsCongress Industry Update Declaration of Emergency Did you Know Legislation weather hours of service Senate Transportation and Safety Trucking Tips tires

Trucker Spotlight - Maggie Jessop <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/2020/07/maggie3.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Maggie</strong>, who's a trucker and a blogger. She's a mother of eight kids (six sons, two daughters). She taught high school language arts over 20 years time while simultaneously managing a sewing manufacturing company. When her children grew up, she felt the need to learn something new so she wouldn’t get too old too fast. Let's get to know more about Maggie and her colorful story. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How long have you been trucking?</strong></h3> I got my CDL when I was 52 years old and have been driving for 3.5 years. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/maggie5.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I went into trucking mainly to improve my circumstances financially. My previous work experience had been in school, office, and warehouse and I excelled in domestic skills like cooking, sewing, and child care. I got really tired of lady wages. It’s a struggle to make a living unless you’re a rock star, movie actor, or have a string of abbreviations following your name. Trucking was a whole new ballgame with strange new terminology and monster trucks and a terrifying and dangerous environment but it tripled my income. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/maggie2.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Are there times of loneliness while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Trucking can be boring and lonely if I let it be. I use my solitaire hours to think up ideas and write books in my head. During mandatory rest breaks, I write. So far, I have published two full size memoirs, two children’s books, and fifteen low content books like coloring books, notebooks, sketchbooks, and journals. Trucking and writing make a great team! Rest breaks are too long. I only need seven hours of sleep. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you start a blog? Any chance you'll start your Youtube channel soon? Any plans of being a CDL Instructor?</strong></h3> I keep busy driving 60+ hours per week driving over 3,000 miles. I keep a blog called <a href="https://teachertailortrucker.com/">Teacher Tailor Trucker</a>. I am getting ready to publish my third memoir called Stranger in a Strange Land. My fourth memoir comes next and is called Search for the Highroad. It tells the story of my trucking life. I also put out new children’s books every few months. I am also planning to create a YouTube channel. I invested in a home recording studio and plan to record songs, contract voiceover work, and record audiobooks. <h2></h2> I plan to keep trucking until I can match my income as an author and voiceover artist. Since I have teaching experience, I’m sure I could be a CDL instructor, but my other plans will likely take precedence. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/maggie4.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves?</strong></h3> My pet peeve in trucking is when little car drivers get too close and then want to cuss out the big rig drivers. Car drivers don’t seem to understand that a semi truck and trailer is over 70’ long and weighs 80,000 pounds when loaded. They take much longer to slow down safely. Cars beware! I try to be patient because I was once a little car myself, but sometimes I have to slam breaks and lay on the train horn to get their attention. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Could you identify the current pain points in the trucking industry? And maybe some suggestions on how to fix them?</strong></h3> When I went to CDL school, trucking seemed to be a male dominated industry. I got yelled at, cussed out, made fun of, and told I was waaay too ladylike and persnickety. “You don’t belong in this industry!” they said. <h2></h2> They said I would get run over because I’m too nice. They said I’d get taken advantage of by the rough characters in the industry. They said I’d never make it and would give up when I finally realized I was out of my element. <h2></h2> I replied that just because I work like a man doesn’t mean I have to look like a man or act like a man. I said there’s no law in the universe that says truck drivers have to be fat and filthy and foul mouthed and illiterate. I told the naysayers, “I’m not leaving the trucking industry until I make it better.” <h2></h2> I’m still here. I am a professional driver. I have never had serious trouble on the road. Other drivers treat me with respect. If I ever break down, it’s not hard to find a decent truck driver to help me out. I’ve been treated better by truck drivers than I have by professional office people. <h2></h2> As a solo driver, I can control my own environment. I can choose my hours, dress how I please, eat how I please, listen to what I please. I keep my truck clean and I exercise every morning. I work hard and wear a dress because I’m a lady. <h2></h2> I mentioned one pet peeve, but the most unsavory thing about trucking that I’ve ever known is the rudeness and indifference that truckers deal with at shippers and receivers. Office and warehouse workers often treat truckers like they’re on the bottom of the totem pole. I don’t think there should be a totem pole. I believe that all of us should treat the rest of us with respect. <h2></h2> Those who have never been a truck driver have no clue what truck drivers deal with. I sure wasn’t aware before I became a driver. My respect has grown by leaps and bounds. Think about it. Every single thing you eat, drink, wear, or use in your home or business came from a truck. The Good Lord provided and a Trucker delivered. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/maggie6.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can we read some of your stories on the road?</strong></h3> Here are some of my blog posts where I share thoughts and experiences about life on the road. My writing is more on the light side with a humorous approach to life while informing my audience of real life experience. Mine are not the norm but hey, if I can get one smile, it’s worth it. <h2></h2> <a href="https://teachertailortrucker.com/blonde-moments/">https://teachertailortrucker.com/blonde-moments/</a> <h2></h2> <a href="https://teachertailortrucker.com/mama-truckers/">https://teachertailortrucker.com/mama-truckers/</a> <h2></h2> <a href="https://teachertailortrucker.com/triple-trucker-trouble/">https://teachertailortrucker.com/triple-trucker-trouble/</a> <h2></h2> <a href="https://teachertailortrucker.com/hug-a-trucker-day/">https://teachertailortrucker.com/hug-a-trucker-day/</a> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Jul 17, 2020 • Carriers

Different Types of Trucking Jobs [p]Truck driving is a challenging profession that requires incredible mental fortitude. You are constantly on the road, away from family and the warm embrace of your home. On top of that, you are driving most of the time, so there is hardly time for any rest. Therefore, it is a good idea to choose a suitable trucking job that fits your schedule and allows you to relax. There are plenty of opportunities you can explore![/p] [p]There are plenty of opportunities you can explore! [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Dry Van Hauling[/b][/p] [p]Dry van hauling is tailor-made for beginner truckers. You only have to deliver non-perishable items from one place to another. The loading and unloading are also done by the client, so you only have to focus on the driving.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Freight Trucker[/b][/p] [p]Freight is a very broad term, so anything other than dry goods come under the definition. It's tough being a freight hauler as you are expected to transport all kinds of goods. They can be hazardous, liquid materials, or anything that dry haulers are not allowed to carry.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Oil/Gasoline Tanker[/b][/p] [p]Hauling a tanker is no easy task. You have to be focused every moment and take care of the cargo at all times. One mistake could result in a horrible accident. Tanker haulers are some of the most sought-after trucking jobs in the industry. The high risk means there is a high reward as well. So, it is natural for truckers to look for tanker jobs.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Refrigerated Goods Transport[/b][/p] [p]Transporting refrigerated goods does not require a lot of skill, but it involves being punctual. You cannot fall behind the deadline, or the entire cargo can spoil. There is a lot of responsibility on such truckers but the good thing is that these jobs are close to home. You are not always expected to transport goods to far-off places.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Flatbed Trucker[/b][/p] [p]Any item that is too large or has an irregular shape, is transported by flatbed truckers. Flatbed trailers are open, which means the cargo is exposed to the elements at all times. The job requires extreme skill, to deliver the goods safely and on time. Trucks, cars, heavy machinery, and other similar items are transported using a flatbed hauler.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-6.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Regional Trucking Jobs[/b][/p] [p]If you are not worried about earning the big bucks and you are happier near your home, then regional trucking is for you. Such a job is easy and does not pay much, but at least you don’t have to be away from home all the time.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/05/202105-TP-BLOG-Different-Types-of-Trucking-Jobs-7.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Hotshot Trucking[/b][/p] [p]There is no need to be disappointed if you like trucking and you don’t have a semi. A class 3 or 5 truck can also do the job. Hotshot trucking is attaching a trailer to your small truck and transporting goods using that setup. Once you have the capital and experience to upgrade, you can shift to a semi and accept more serious trucking jobs..[/p] [p]What about you? Which one are you or which one would you want to try out? Comment below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p] [p] Signing off.[/p]

May 20, 2021 • Carriers

Trucking Industry Update February 22, 2019 <h3>Trucking Industry Update February 22, 2019</h3> <h4>By Jeremy Feucht</h4> <h2><strong><u>Did you Know?</u></strong></h2> We all know that trucking carries roughly 73% of all goods shipped in the US, but did you know that 94% of all hazardous material moved in the US is shipped via truck? <h2><strong><u>Trucking tip of the Week</u></strong></h2> Trip planning is essential. If it is a lane you have never driven before, planning becomes all that more imperative. When you leave could mean the difference between hitting traffic in a big city or not. Many areas have low bridges that semis cannot fit under. You need to know how to get around those. Knowing the best places to fill up with fuel and where scales are so you are filling up after leaving a scale. Filling up after leaving a scale can help you stay weight compliant yet have a full tank of fuel. Plenty of things to think about when planning your trip. <h2><strong><u>Driver’s Pay</u></strong></h2> There are signs that companies may be changing the way they pay their drivers. For the Owner-Operator, that could be a good sign. As companies increase the pay for their drivers in hopes of stabilizing retention rates, fewer and fewer drivers will attempt the owner-operator method. This means more loads on the spot market for them to find. <a href="https://www.joc.com/trucking-logistics/labor/new-truck-driver-pay-model-aimed-capacity-retention_20190220.html">Companies are looking into salaries</a>, amongst other ways to pay their drivers. Wages will be dependent upon their track record and in some cases tenure within the company. <h2><strong><u>Technology in Trucking</u></strong></h2> Companies are doing many different things to ensure the quality of the driver they are putting behind the wheel. Instead of waiting on the government to figure out what should be the minimum amount of training needed before driving, <a href="https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/technology/businessinsider/article/America-s-fifth-largest-trucking-company-has-a-13630774.php">Xpress, the fifth largest carrier company in the US</a>, sought out advice from its own drivers. Moving away from the classroom type setting, Xpress is creating a technology-based, self-paced learning regiment. On top of that, they have created a virtual reality simulator that their prospective drivers must pass long before getting behind the wheel of an actual truck. Could this be the wave of the future? <h2><strong><u>Toll Roads</u></strong></h2> Much like Virginia did a few weeks back, Connecticut is moving away from an idea of placing a heavy burden on truckers moving through their state. The governor, Ned Lamont, had sought to <a href="https://cdllife.com/2019/governor-flip-flops-away-from-truck-only-toll-promise/">create Truck only toll roads in the state of Connecticut</a>. Due to legal issues, he has backed off that idea. Instead, he is looking at creating toll roads across the entire state for all vehicles. The chances of this happening are slim because people, while naïve to the plight of the trucker and they tend not to worry about things that indirectly affect them, will not be in support of something that adds a more direct burden on themselves.

Feb 22, 2019 • Carriers