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Trucker Spotlight - Jahnessa Graham <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/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Jahnessa Graham</strong>, who's Tucsonan born and raised; ‘Bear Down!’ Her dream back in school was to become a fashion designer or pursue a criminal justice degree. Upon graduating, she ventured out on her own at 18, worked the dead-end jobs, secured her own apt, and went to college for a while; basically, getting by. Molding a life without a game plan and at 22 years old, a series of events led her to pursue a CDL. Let's get to know "Jahnessa" and how trucking came into her life. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> It began with me selling everything, I had to move into a truck for 5 months. I assisted in hand unloading freight for ‘Dollar Tree’. I was the spotter for backing, handled paperwork and Qualcomm messages, as well as set up equipment for unloads. I absolutely loved the work, so I decided to move back home. I sat with my class D for a year and in March of 2018 made the move to attend CDL school. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-3.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> Coming up on three years in the industry, technically I am still a rookie driver, so I have not had to experience too much change. Starting out, there was a lot of disdain towards switching from paper logs to ELD’s as many truckers complained about the severe restraint on our work week and ability to break when needed. I have noticed that new recruits are coming into the industry typically have more and more negative opinions/attitudes towards other drivers and office personnel. Another issue is the ever-changing regulations regarding our HOS laws. I think having people who have no experience in a semi, creating rules that hinder our work and health can prove harmful to drivers. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some things you dislike about being a truck driver?</strong></h3> Oh man, there is a lot! Here are my top five dislikes about the job: <h2></h2> <li>4 wheelers</li> <li>Disrespect from shippers, receivers, and office folk</li> <li>Skirting the rules to make a living</li> <li>Lack of communication</li> <li>Constant stress</li> <h2></h2> Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy what I do and I’m great at it, but sometimes I think the cons outweigh the pros. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What attributes must one have in order to be a successful truck driver?</strong></h3> Definitely patience. There will always be something or someone who throws a monkey wrench in your plans so be prepared to have your time wasted. I feel like common sense plays a big role out here on the road and I would say in most situations that includes having the ability to make split second decisions. A professional driver must be able to interact with a variety of people and will show restraint when necessary. It is not a contest of egos! Lastly, one must have an excellent work ethic as simply doing the bare minimum will not get you anywhere. This industry is not for everyone and there is nothing wrong with that. However, in order to succeed, I believe these to be the best attributes to do so. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the most memorable experience you've had while over the road?</strong></h3> I will always remember the first time I got 'the signal'. It had to have been my first or second load solo when I was rolling through a small Arizona town one afternoon and I saw two boys walking home from school. They lifted their arms and gave a couple yanks on an invisible cord, aka the air horn signal. I was so excited and happy but sadly I could not blow the horn in such a small town off the highway no less. I still feel bad to this day, so I try to give kids and adults the pleasure of my airhorn whenever I get the signal. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model? </strong></h3> I really prefer Freightliner, Cascadia. It has been my main truck since the beginning, and I have come to enjoy it. Plus, the parts are plentiful which makes maintenance less of a hassle. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> As of lately I am thinking about starting up a food truck operation in conjunction with a new truck stop in Tucson, AZ. As a trucker I know that parking is hard to find, so being able to provide safe, easy parking along with homemade cooking is sure to please many drivers. I have also thought about obtaining my CDL instructors cert. and start a defensive driving school for both commercial and non-commercial drivers. I have mush to think about, but I am sure whatever I choose will be worth it. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-6.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> I love Pilot/Flying J and TA. They both seem to reign supreme in terms of food selection and showers. TA also tends to have adequate parking and maintenance shops. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What was the worst breakdown or setback you've experienced while OTR?</strong></h3> The worst breakdown I have had was with Navajo Transport, as a company driver. I was climbing a mountain in California when my truck suddenly lost all power, and my dash gauges were going crazy! I pulled off on the shoulder three times before barely managing to pull off on a small dirt cutout about 25 feet from the highway. After many calls to dispatch and breakdown, I was told that a tow was on the way. I sat from 10am until 12:30 am in the middle of summer waiting for a tow. The other employees I spoke with did not seem to care about who took care of the situation and I did nit hear back from them for hours. It was not a great day. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> The <a href="https://sixdays.page.link/tLUu">Trucker Path</a> features I enjoy the most are Having the 7-day parking prediction is great! It is better for me to gauge whether a stop is going to be open for me based on specific times of the day. Truck stop details tabs allow me to choose where I stop based on food selections and amenities which I am grateful for. I am a sucker for Popeyes and Arby’s right now! Another thing that impressed me from the start was attention to detail, specifically addresses and contact info. I can call ahead to ask for information, update my truck GPS to find a specific place quickly, and see hours of operation. Everything I need in one place that is easy to access is always a plus as a trucker! <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> An important tip is to be one-hundred percent sure of your decisions as there is little room for mistakes and lots of room for big consequences. The mark of a true professional is given by how one overcomes challenges. I can say firsthand that the more effort you put into acknowledging and fixing mistakes as they happen, will make you a more conscious and skilled driver down the road. New drivers, please take anyone’s advice with a grain of salt and do what makes you comfortable because at the end of the day it is your decision that affects your job and life out here. Lastly, make the best of what you have and do not let the stress weigh you down or knock you out. You got this! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Jahnessa-Graham-7.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3> They can view my videos on my Youtube Channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvj3_Y1_JHOwX3sZIKDsgPg/videos">Peaches N Grease</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0cZ6qldVXzs" title="YouTube video player" 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>

Apr 01, 2021 • Community

Mar 26, 2021 • Community

Understanding Team Truck Driving [p]Trucking is a hectic job that entails adhering to DOT / HOS regulations which ultimately means you need to stop at some point to comply with the maximum driving hours. With these regulations some truckers often opt to drive with a partner to maximize efficiency. Team truck driving allows one driver to rest while the other one drives. The drivers can switch places with each other multiple times over a journey so that more distance can be covered while time is saved. [/p] [p]While some truckers love this concept, others prefer to drive solo. In any case, team driving has its perks, and they are significant enough not to be overlooked. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]How Does Driving With a Partner Work? [/b][/p] [p]The job is pretty straightforward. One driver drives while the other rests, eats, and sleeps. Each driver has their own duty-time set on a schedule, so there are no arguments regarding shift timings. This significantly reduces the time needed to haul loads from one point to another, and hence that results in better pay. Both drivers receive the benefits of the entire job even when they are spending half their time doing it.[/p] [p]It is easy to judge from the brief discussion above that team driving has its benefits, but it also has its disadvantages. [/p] [p][b]Advantages of Team Trucking [/b][/p] [p]It should be clear by now that for people who love to socialize and work at the same time, team truck driving is the best job to have. You rarely get bored, you always have a partner to keep you entertained and you don’t have to share meals with strangers while you are sitting at a truck stop in the middle of nowhere. But these are just a few perks. Trucking with a partner can result in a lot more advantages. [/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>More Available Jobs </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]Trucking with a partner is like having opened up a new skill that qualifies you and your partner to apply for jobs that would otherwise be unavailable to you if each of you were driving solo. Trucking companies like to save time and love efficiency, which is why they admire the concept of team driving. They are willing to pay you more just so you deliver the goods faster. Moreover, team trucking is a great stepping stone for you if you want to go solo in the future. Partnering up with an experienced campaigner will allow you to access high-paid jobs with relatively zero experience. Once you have the necessary hours and skill needed to go solo, you can end terms with your partner and start your gig.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-2.jpg" alt=""] <li><strong>Consistent Income </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]Team driving is a more attractive package for trucking companies. They know they can rely on a team to deliver faster than a solo driver. They say two heads are better than one and that sometimes holds true for trucking. If there are two drivers, there will be more driving than resting and that would mean hopping from one assignment to another. All in all, you will be making more money and that too consistently.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Disadvantages of Team Trucking [/b][/p] [p]While the advantages are tempting, especially for an upcoming young driver, some veterans prefer to drive alone, and they have some good reasons for it. [/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>The Profits Are Split </strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]The term team driving is simple to understand. You drive as a team, and that means you equally share the spoils between each other. So while the idea of trucking with a partner seems tempting, it is not might not be feasible in the long-run, especially if you are in it for the money.[/p] <h2></h2> <li><strong>Undesirable Partner</strong> </li> <h2></h2> [p]Let's face it. It is not easy to spend a considerable amount of time with another person in a small space, especially if you don't like them. Your partner has to be entertaining or compatible with your level of thinking. If not, it can be very hard to pass time or trust your teammate with the job at hand.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-TeamTruckDriving-3.jpg" alt=""] <li><strong>Trouble Sleeping</strong></li> <h2></h2> [p]As a truck driver, you have been trained not to fall asleep while driving long distances. And now, you have to fall asleep once your shift ends when your partner takes over the wheel. This could be challenging especially if you are not used to sleeping when needed to. Also, you might need to get used to sleeping while listening to some up beat music while your partner drives.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Closing Thoughts [/b][/p] [p]Team truck driving is a highly attractive opportunity for new drivers who are looking to add miles and for old drivers who are looking for a partner since they are unable to drive solo. The pay is not that good, but the work is consistent. So team truck driving is recommended until you feel you have the experience to drive your semi or if you are a husband and wife team who love spending time on the road and enjoy an adventure more than the pay. Are you a team driver? Do you have tips for people who want to try team driving? Let us know on the comments.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Nov 20, 2020 • Carriers

Nov 19, 2020 • Community

Truckers Sentiments on Updated HOS Rules [p]As the new HOS Rules have been updated, <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> users have brought in mixed comments via it’s in-app forum. Here are some of the comments we gathered from our users. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/trucker-2946821_640.jpg" alt=""] [p]Some users welcomed the idea, like DANZ63. He said <em>“Experiencing the new 30 minute break allowed including the on time duty into it. Honestly, the 30 minute break should be removed completely because it’s really no break at all because it completes the break while I didnt even intend to take a break. Also my pre trip doesn’t even start my day, which can actually be beneficial.”</em>[/p] [p]User, Tachyon said that <em>“This benefits owner operators and fleet owners by giving them greater flexibility. The seventy hour clock should have increased to allow employees the opportunity to make more money to justify the additional fatigue this is likely to cause.”</em>[/p] [p]<em>“I think it’s a good change and the first in a decade that will actually mitigate driving fatigue. Forcing a driver to take 10 hrs in one sitting does not necessarily reduce his fatigue. Everyone is different. A full 10 hours make me more tired sometimes!”</em> said user Tarzammond.[/p] [p]All good, said user Shuttleman. <em>“I’m good with it. I’ve been doing ELD’s. For 15 years I did all the whining back then and didn't do any good so I just got used to it, worked with it. Just hang in there a few years, all of this will be water under the bridge and life will go on.”</em>[/p] [p]While there is a mix of feedback. The common denominator is the request to remove the 14-hour rule altogether. [/p] [p]<em>“Glad to see the first step in a good direction, but the 14hr day is a huge hindrance. Like when last week, I spent 5.5hrs waiting to get loaded just chipped away at my drive time. Extended delivery to another day, turning 2-day delivery into 3 days.”</em> Another one stated.[/p] [p]8sEx4eCoSP said, <em>“I just wish they would drop the 14-hour rule. I think that’s why there are more mistakes being made because we don’t have a long enough time to actually get a shower or take a nap or like some of us take the time out to eat right and not so much on the go. Plus some of us only need 6 to 7 hours of sleep and we’re rested. And there’s a lot of us that always take a break more than 30 minutes a day anyway if we get the chance to. But with this 14-hour rule, it hinders all of us.”</em>[/p] [p]OpClgdA9Jc was also not in favor of the 14-hour rule. <em>“Like with anything, it has its pros and cons. The 14-hour rule is the problem if they’re not going to get rid of it, they should at least make it 16 like in Canada.”</em>[/p] [p]Even though one user was okay with the change, he still had something to say about the 14-hour rule. <em>“I’m in favor of the change. But they should scrap the 14 hour rule. I mean no driver likes it and it hurts drivers on making appointments.”</em>[/p] [p]<strong>Conclusion </strong>[/p] [p]While most of the truckers were in favor of the said changes and the added flexibility in schedule, there were also some that pointed out the need to remove the core 14-hour rule. The updated rules have been in place for more than a month now and gathering of public feedback is now over. The FMCSA has yet to give an update based on the feedback gathered but as one commentator said, life goes on.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/hos2.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Trucker Path[/b][/p]

Nov 10, 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

Industry Update - May 17, 2019 <h5>By Jeremy Feucht</h5> <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Did you Know?</u></strong></h3> We are just under 7 months away from the final deadline of the ELD mandate. The grandfather clause that allowed drivers to continue to use their AOBRDs will expire on December 16, 2019. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Trucking tip of the Week</u></strong></h3> We are seeing record amounts of rainfall across the US. While stopping a big rig is difficult enough on dry roads, add in wet pavement after a hot spell, and vehicles with the best tires and breaks can have trouble stopping. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Autonomous Vehicles</u></strong></h3> More trouble for the autonomous vehicle industry as a <a href="http://fortune.com/2019/05/16/latest-fatal-tesla-crash-involves-autopilot/">Tesla was involved in another fatal accident</a>. The investigation results have become available in the fatal wreck and it has been determined that the autopilot was engaged but did not detect a semi. On March 1, a Tesla collided with the semi at about 68 mph while crossing a highway in Delray Beach, FL killing the driver of the Tesla. Events like this will further delay autonomous trucks from entering the industry. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Tariffs </u></strong></h3> Tariffs have been a common theme recently, but we may see a change to that. The <a href="https://menafn.com/1098536915/Trucking-Cheers-US-Agreement-with-Mexico-Canada-to-Lift-Tariffs">US has agreed to lift tariffs</a> on Mexico and Canada in regard to steel and aluminum that is manufactured in those countries. Further helping the trucking industry is that the agreement also includes the removal of retaliatory tariffs placed on US goods by Mexico and Canada. The removal of these tariffs should help reduce the costs to consumers and increase margins for the manufacturers which in turn should help stabilize or even increase rates paid to drivers. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>FMCSA Seeking Comments</u></strong></h3> Last year, the FMCSA requested comments for a pilot program allowing those 18-20 years old with military experience to drive interstate. This week, the FMCSA is now requesting comments from anyone who would like to have their voice heard on allowing those 18-20 years old and without military experience to drive interstate. Currently those 18-20 can drive big rigs commercially, they just can only drive intrastate. If you would like to read the request by the FMCSA and comment, you can do so <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=FMCSA-2018-0346-0001">here</a>. Comments must be received by July 15, 2019.

May 17, 2019 • Carriers