Jul 22, 2020 • Carriers

Tips to Maximize Your Trucker Path Experience

Tips to Maximize Your Trucker Path Experience

With the vast array of features aimed to improve your trucking experience, truckers should take advantage of what the Trucker Path app has to offer. In this article, we’ll help you master the art of Trucker Path. Check out these 3 tips on how to maximize your Trucker Path experience.

1. Double tapping the places filter

This allows you to display the places you want on your location.

2. Adding locations/places to your favorites

This feature saves all your favorite locations or places so you can access them easier at a later time.

3. Switch to satellite view

You’ll be able to visualize the parking lot size and you may spot some obstacles too!

Try it out yourself! Click this LINK to get you started.

By Aldous Aldwin

Tagsdrivers Truck Truck Driver truck drivers Owner Operator Safety trucking Trucker Path Trucking Industry truck stops Truck driver tips Owner Operators Did you Know Technology Trucking Tips

What is a Weigh Station? [p]Drive on any major interstate and you will eventually come across a green sign saying “weigh station”. So what is a weigh station for anyhow?[/p] [h2]What is a Weigh Station?[/h2] [p]A weigh station is a designated location, typically located directly off of highways, where the Department of Transportation or state highway patrol inspects the weight of a vehicle. The reason why there are weigh stations is to ensure that the roads are not compromised by a potentially overweight vehicle. In America, the maximum weight that a truck with a full trailer can be on the road is 80,000 pounds (some exceptions). Additionally, a weigh station that is on the border of two states is called a port of entry.[/p] [p][i]The Simpsons – Maximum Homerdrive[/i][/p] [giphy]<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3o6Mbt3gvvQdFlWg4E" width="480" height="269" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe>[/giphy] [h2]Who Has to Stop at a Weigh Station?[/h2] [p]Any commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that weighs over 10,000 pounds is required to stop at a weigh station unless the driver has a PrePass or other weigh station bypass service. [a href="https://app.appsflyer.com/com.sixdays.truckerpath?pid=Social Facebook"]Truck drivers can use Trucker Path[/a] to check ahead and see if a weigh station is open or closed in real-time. This can be extremely valuable to help truckers save valuable time.[/p] [giphy]<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/xT5LMsfqY4WgipchIA" width="480" height="269" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe>[/giphy] [h2]What Do Truckers Mean When They Say Chicken Coop?[/h2] [p]With over [a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucks-delivering-cargo-in-the-usa"]1.6 million heavy-duty truck drivers in America[/a] weigh stations can become extremely congested and can cost drivers precious time, not to mention waste fuel. Some truckers will refer to weigh stations as "chicken coops" because the large trucks are forced into a confined space prior to being weighed, like chickens in a coop.[/p] [h2]What Happens at a Weigh Station?[/h2] [p]When a truck driver sees a weigh station that says OPEN, he or she must exit the freeway and enter the scales to be weighed. The majority of weigh stations have a rolling scale where a truck will roll past a certain area that has a scale (could differ by state). Once a truck is weighed and verified to weigh under 80,000 pounds, the truck will be granted a green light to exit the weigh station and proceed back on its route.[/p] [p]After a truck goes through the scales either the DOT or state inspection officer can flag the truck for an inspection.[/p] [p]At a weigh station, trucks can be inspected for a variety of reasons. DOT officers or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration agents conduct a thorough equipment safety inspection to find issues with a truck including:[/p] [ul] [li]low or flat tires[/li] [li]tire tread[/li] [li]oil, fuel or anti-freeze leaks[/li] [li]brake malfunctions[/li] [li]broken springs[/li] [li]securely mounted fuel tanks[/li] [li]cracks in wheels and rims[/li] [li]unlocked kingpin[/li] [li]hose or tubing leak[/li] [/ul] [p]Any of these violations can lead to a truck being declared out-of-service (among a variety of others). If the FMCSA declares a truck as out-of-service, the truck shall be towed and not operated until repairs to the violations found during the inspection are completed. Truckers will also have to have repairmen sign Form MCS63 issued by the FMCSA to verify proper repairs were made.[/p] [giphy]<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3o6MbiPDaKvIei93KU" width="480" height="269" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe>[/giphy] [h2]Log Book Inspection[/h2] [p]A truckers' truck isn't the only thing that can be inspected. A truck drivers' log book can also be checked by an officer to ensure the driver is keeping a daily log of his or her record and isn't in violation of hours-of-service laws. DOT HOS regulations include:[/p] [ul] [li]Maximum 11 hours of driving during a 14-hour period[/li] [li]No more than 60 hours total in seven consecutive days on duty[/li] [li]No more than 70 hours total in eight consecutive days on duty[/li] [li]Required 10 consecutive hours off after 11 hours of driving[/li] [/ul] [p]Changes are coming for log books. The FMCSA Electronic Logging Device mandate will begin in December. The ELD mandate requires truckers to use an ELD to keep a record of his or her log book to comply with HOS regulations. HOS fines can range from $150 to over $1,000 each.[/p] [h2] Is There a Weigh Station Near Me? [/h2] [p] Ever ask yourself, is there a weigh station near me? As a truck driver, it's important to know if there is a weigh station near you along your route. Using the <strong>Trucker Path</strong> app you can see where weigh stations are located nearby and see if they're open or closed. [/p] [p] Want to save even more time? Plan ahead using the trip planning feature in the Trucker Path app to determine the locations of weigh stations along your route. Don't forget to update the status too! [/p] [button-green href=" https://truckerpath.com/trucker-path-app/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=whatsweighstation&utm_campaign=Aug14"]Try TruckerPath Today[/button-green] [video id="NSSOwFRJaQw"]

Jan 17, 2017 • Community

Trailer Door Locks [h2] Trailer Door Locks [/h2] [p] There isn’t a single trailer door lock that is universally the absolute best. Many truck drivers have hasps and door hardware that vary in size and functionality; therefore, not every padlock will fit every trailer door. [/p] [p]However, there are some things you can keep in mind to navigate the winding roads of finding the best trailer door lock to secure your cargo.[/p] [h2] Type of Locks [/h2] [p] Most truck door locks must be padlocks based on how the trailer door secures. Often a trailer door will use hardware with a cam action side-bar that fastens into place with a hasp. In order to lock the doors, a padlock must be placed on the hasp. [/p] [p]Padlocks come with many different profiles, but they have some essential features that are consistent throughout the wide range of products. Though you might know your <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-terms/">trucker terms</a>, here are some other definitions you should be aware of. [/p] [ul] [li]<strong>Lock Body - </strong> The thick part of the lock that houses the internal components and lock core.[/li] [li]<strong>Shackle - </strong> A piece of metal that remains immobilized when the padlock is locked and moves to allow the lock to be removed when the padlock is open.[/li] [li]<strong>Locking Pawl -</strong> The device keeping the shackle stationary when the padlock is locked and retracts to allow the shackle to move when the padlock is open.[/li] [/ul] [h2]Key Features of a Trailer Door Lock[/h2] [p]<strong>A Keyway - </strong> Combination padlocks and other such devices that do not use a key are not made to the same security standards as the best keyed-locks on the market. You also run the risk of someone overhearing you mention the combination, seeing you input it, decoding it, etc.[/p] [p]<strong>Shackle Protection - </strong> A shackle is going to be thinner than the lock body, so you need your shackle to be as covered as possible (which provides greater thickness). You can do this with a padlock that has a puck lock profile or a shackle shroud (both of these terms are used to describe the different ways the thickness of the lock body can extend to cover the shackle).[/p] [p]<strong>Sturdy Internal Components - </strong> Since the padlock will be outside, exposed to the elements, debris, and sustain stress from the vehicle's movement, the internal components of the lock are at risk of being damaged to the point where the proper key will not open the padlock.[/p] [p]<strong>Strong Metal - </strong> This should be used on the lock body as well as the shackle. Hardened steel can vary in quality, so it is best to get some sort of alloy steel. Those made with Boron Carbide are some of the best on the market. This helps to ward off cutting and prying attacks.[/p] [p]<strong>Picking Resistance - </strong> Though most criminals do not pick locks, you do not want someone with little to no training opening your lock quickly and covertly (lockpicking resistance will also equate to bump key resistance). [/p] [p]<strong>Drill Protection - </strong> Even with a strong padlock with a protected shackle, most lock cores are brass and can be drilled out. Whether it is an anti-drill plate that uses rotating hardened steel or anti-drill pins that deflect drill bits at key drill points, you should have some form of drill protection.[/p] [p]<strong>Ball Bearings - </strong> The locking pawls for your padlock must be ball bearings. Other forms of locking pawls can be shimmed, which is a simple bypass most people can perform untrained with simple household items.[/p] [h2] Top Trailer Door Lock Choices [/h2] [p] As we previously mentioned, there is no one best lock for every use. But as long as you purchase a product with at least most of the specifications listed above, you will be providing your cargo with more protection than many others who are just buying what they can get their hands on at the hardware store.[/p] [p] Depending on your budget, what you are hauling, and <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/best-truck-stops/">the types of truck stop</a> you will be parking your load, you might need different levels of security. Here are some recommendations that cover a variety of potential needs: [/p] [p]<strong>1. Mul-T-lock MT5+ TR 100 “Hockey Puck” </strong>[/p] [p] This product is a great example of the puck style of a padlock. It is similar to products from companies such as Master Lock and Trimax, but with the additional features that Mul-T-Lock provides in their high-security locks. This lock has a cost that makes it accessible to most, though some more frugal buyers may faint from sticker shock. Just know for that price you are getting a very hardy lock that almost no one is going to pick the lock open or remove it by force.[/p] [p]<strong>2. Abloy PL 342T </strong>[/p] [p]Sometimes referred to as the Abloy model 342, this is a tremendous lock, both in terms of size and security. This Abloy padlock uses a PROTEC2 core, which has never been picked open to this day. With an extremely thick shrouded shackle (10mm in diameter) criminals will have a hard time prying it open too.[/p] [p]The main issues you are going to run into with this lock is not having a hasp with the correct dimensions to accommodate such a thick shackle. It is also the most expensive padlock that I am recommending (though certainly not the most expensive padlock you could buy).[/p] [p]<strong>3. Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock</strong>[/p] [p]The lowest security lock I am willing to recommend for securing your cargo is this Stanley Padlock. It has a shrouded shackle and drill protection, which come standard. I would recommend that you replace the lock core with something more secure, but in terms of price for the product you get, this is the best value for such a small sum.[/p] [p]The Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock is a good starter lock. If you have invested in other things and need a bit of time to recoup adequate funds, the standard Stanley is the lowest security placeholder you should settle for. For the price, you cannot buy much better.[/p] [h2]Price Considerations[/h2] [p]Price matters because money most truck drivers have to work within a budget. Don't spend all of your budget for your truck’s security on the trailer door lock. With that said, you shouldn't both with a lock that is less than $100. If money's no object, you can <a href="https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog/10-best-padlocks-of-all-time">get the best padlock available to you</a>. For everyone else, focus on getting as many of key features as you can. And if you can’t afford much now, start with a Stanley padlock and work your way up to the lock core replacement.[/p] [p] <strong>About the Author</strong> [/p] [p]Ralph Goodman is a professional writer and the resident expert on locks and security over at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog&source=gmail&ust=1510851240149000&usg=AFQjCNFCuwh1U-3WlNpEde3Klm2dTkTMSQ">the Lock Blog</a>. The Lock Blog is a great resource to learn about keys, locks and safety. They offer tips, advice and how-tos for consumers, locksmiths, and security professionals.[/p]

Nov 15, 2017 • Carriers

Industry Update - May 26, 2020 <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b9.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b9.jpeg" alt="" width="600" height="312" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-4941" /></a> <h3><strong>Load Volumes are Up by 7 Percent</strong></h3> <a href="https://www.freightwaves.com/news/another-great-week-for-load-volumes-now-up-7-year-over-year">Load volumes are up 7% versus last year even as import volumes are down.</a> Traditional produce markets in the Southwest have contributed to the largest monthly changes in volumes (Tucson, Phoenix). The rapidly improving consumer spending data is also playing a role in this growth. The reopening of most states is unleashing the pent-up demand from Americans who have grown tired of being on house arrest. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b13.jpeg" alt="Availability" /> <h3><strong>Truck Availability Falls 17 Percent</strong></h3> The availability of trucks on the spot market dropped 17.5% even if spot freight volumes on major lanes continued to grow last week., This is a probable sign that capacity is shifting to the contract market as industries open up. <h2></h2> Pricing power remains with brokers and shippers. <h2></h2> Here are the national average spot rates through the week: <ul> <li>Van: $1.55 per mile, 8 cents lower than the April average</li> <li>Flatbed: $1.86 per mile, 8 cents lower than April</li> <li>Reefer: $1.97 per mile, 4 cents higher than April</li> </ul> <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/05/b10.jpeg" alt="Amazon" width: 100%; height: auto;/> <h3><strong>Amazon Invests $4 Billion to Keep Employees Safe</strong></h3> In a Youtube video posted by Amazon, it revealed to have allocated $4 Billion on COVID-related initiatives to get products to customers and keep employees safe. Here's a breakdown of their initiatives. <ul> <li>Shipped 100 million masks to employees and partners</li> <li>To deliver 6 million meals</li> </ul> Watch the full video below. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yxQrMO2gcnY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

May 26, 2020