Mar 22, 2019 • Carriers

Industry Update March 22, 2019

Industry Update March 22, 2019

Trucking Industry Update March 22, 2019

By Jeremy Feucht

Did you Know?

March 22, 1933, President Roosevelt signed the Beer and Wine Revenue act, which basically killed Prohibition. This started the shipment of alcohol again in earnest and culminated in the signing of the 21^st Amendment in December of 1933, officially ending Prohibition.

Trucking tip of the Week

Getting loads to the final destination on time is key to getting paid the full rate. During the Spring, especially this Spring, wind has been a major factor. Trucks, being top heavy, are easily tipped over. Pay attention to wind speeds in the area you are going through, in particularly through the Plains. Being late is better than not getting there at all.

Declarations of Emergency

This section has been a constant for the last several weeks. This week is no different. Nebraska is having massive flooding issues and are in desperate need of water, fuel and many other items. Make sure you are planning accordingly if your route takes you through Nebraska.

Toll Road Fight

The ATA sued the state of Rhode Island on their implementation of toll roads. The suit was initially brought up in July of 2018 but is just now being ruled on. Unfortunately, the suit has been dismissed but not due to the legality of the law. The presiding judge felt that the suit should be brought up in state court first. The ATA has declared that they will continue the fight.

Legislation

If you drive in the agriculture business, a new piece of legislation has been introduced that you need to keep an eye out on. HR 1673, The Agricultural Trucking Relief Act, has been introduced by Representative Austin Scott (R-GA),is set to further clarify what is classified as an agricultural commodity. While the full bill has yet to be released, you will be able to read the bill in its entirety here when its released.

TagsATA trucking Declaration of Emergency Legislation weather Wind Nebraska beer wine Toll Roads Rhode Island

7 Ways to Stay Healthy While On the Road [p]When you are driving on the road, it becomes extremely hard to stay active and healthy. Simply sitting in a seat for long hours can put immense mental and physical strain on your body. Not to mention the terrible food choices you have to make due to a lack of healthy options in many restaurants, motels, or truck stops. However, if you are really up for it, there are plenty of things you can do while you are on the road to keep your body and mind in perfect shape. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Stack Up on Healthy Snacks[/b][/p] [p]If you drive from state to state for fun or as part of your job you should always think in advance and buy some healthy snacks for the journey. Nowadays, you can find scores of nourishing refreshments at your local superstore to keep your health in check. You don't have to fill up your stomach with candies, chips, cookies, or other similar treats when you can buy some dry fruits, milk, baked chips, and other healthy alternatives. This way, you can keep consuming snacks when you are bored and remain fit.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-HealthySnacks.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Always Use Sunscreen[/b][/p] [p]We often undermine the effects the sun has on our skin. The constant bashing of the sun's rays can create serious dermal issues. Often times leading to life-threatening consequences in the form of skin cancer. You should make it your duty to protect yourself from the sun while you are on a long journey. Use good quality sunscreen, and you will never complain about blemished and wrinkly skin when you are older.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Get Ample Sleep[/b][/p] [p]Sleep is often ignored by truckers and other long-haul drivers since they are adamant about meeting strict deadlines. In reality, sleep should be your priority when it comes to long-distance driving. If you are putting in at least eight hours of sleep every night, then your mind and body will be in top shape to perform the coming day. However, skipping sleep will lead to mistakes and accidents, which we all want to avoid.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-AmpleSleep.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Meditate Often[/b][/p] [p]You should make it a habit to meditate for a short period of time whenever you get the chance. Meditation can help calm the nerves and soothe the mind. If you are a trucker who is constantly on the highway, make it your routine to meditate for ten minutes before beginning your day. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Keep Hydrated[/b][/p] [p]Our bodies need sufficient hydration to stay functional. Hence, long-distance drivers need to keep water bottles with them at all times. Avoid sugary drinks like sodas as they can cause the dehydration process to accelerate. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-Hydrate.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Try Yoga[/b][/p] [p]Driving for long hours can make the body stiff, which is why you should think about sneaking in a bit of yoga during your breaks. Yoga improves flexibility and mobility of the body while also helping the mind regain focus. You don't have to go overboard with a full routine when a small one can do your body wonders. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Socialize[/b][/p] [p]Humans are social animals, meaning we need constant human connection to stay mentally healthy. Being social is highly important for drivers who are driving alone since talking with friends and family can revitalize the soul and help regain your focus and determination. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final thoughts[/b][/p] [p]You can't possibly find time to prepare full-blown meals or go to the gym while you are on the road, but doing a little bit of what we suggested can help you keep your body and mind in tip-top condition. Here's to a healthier 2021![/p] [p]Got some wellness tips? Share them on the comments below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Jan 29, 2021

HAZMAT Endorsement [p] Here are the steps to get your HAZMAT endorsement and potentially earn more.[/p] [h2] HAZMAT Endorsement [/h2] [p]Hazmat endorsement is required by truck driver's who have a Commercial Driver's License and wish to deliver HAZMAT loads containing hazardous materials. Since the materials you're hauling can have severe health consequences, the Department of Transportation has enlisted specific requirements before a truck driver can haul such loads. There is a risk-reward with hauling hazardous materials as it typically pays more than a typical freight.[/p] [h2]1. How to Get HAZMAT Endorsement on CDL[/h2] [p]A truck driver with a Class A, B or C CDL can apply for DOT HAZMAT endorsement by completing these five procedures.[/p] [ol] [li]Fill out HAZMAT endorsement application through the DMV or TSA[/li] [li]Complete a medical screening[/li] [li]Pass the DMV written exam (varies by state)[/li] [li]Pay fees[/li] [li]Submit a [a href="https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/servicecode/111168"]TSA Background Security Screening[/a] either online or in-person[/li] [/ol] [p]The following states [b]require[/b] an in-person DMV application for TSA Security Assessment.[/p] [ul] [li]Florida[/li] [li]Kentucky[/li] [li]Maryland[/li] [li]Mississippi[/li] [li]New York[/li] [li]Pennsylvania[/li] [li]Texas[/li] [li]Virginia[/li] [li]Wisconsin[/li] [/ul] [h2]2. Carriers HAZMAT Responsibilities[/h2] [p]Truck drivers who have a HAZMAT endorsement typically earn a higher salary than standard drivers with a CDL. When hauling hazardous materials truck drivers are subject to specific responsibilities that go beyond standard requirements set by the DOT.[/p] [ul] [li]Shipping Paper[/li] [li]Placard and Mark Vehicle[/li] [li]Loading and Unloading[/li] [li]Compatibility[/li] [li]Blocking and Bracing[/li] [li]Incident Report[/li] [li]Security Plan[/li] [li]Employee Training[/li] [ul] [img src="/uploads/2017/02/HAZMAT.jpg"] [h2]3. HAZMAT Classifications[/h2] [ul] [li]Class 1 – Explosives[/li] [li]Class 2 – Gases[/li] [li]Class 3 – Flammable Liquid[/li] [li]Class 4 – Flammable Solids[/li] [li]Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances / Organic Peroxides[/li] [li]Class 6 – Poisonous (Toxic) and Infectious Substances[/li] [li]Class 7 – Radioactive Material[/li] [li]Class 8 – Corrosives[/li] [li]Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods: environmentally hazardous substances, elevated temperature material, hazardous wastes, marine pollutants[/li] [/ul] [h2]4. Have a Copy of the HAZMAT Table in Your Truck[/h2] [p]The HAZMAT Table displays the classifications of hazardous materials and breaks them down by division, as well as by specific material. Having the HAZMAT Table with you at all times will allow you to correctly fill out any shipping papers or packages and comply with Hazardous Material Requirements (HMR) and avoid a violation. The [a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/common-hazmat-violations/"]most common DOT HAZMAT violation[/a] is not having a copy of USDOT hazardous materials registration number.[/p] [img src="/uploads/2017/06/Hazmat-table.png"]

Jun 16, 2017 • Carriers

MATS 2019 Recap

Mar 31, 2019 • Carriers