Nov 27, 2020 • Community

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help

What’s up Trucker Path users!

We’ve just released the latest version 4.3.0 of Trucker Path in both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Ever since the moment the app hit the ground running, we’ve identified some recurring themes for the feedback that we’ve been receiving. Therefore, we reviewed those common themes and came up with the “Get Help” section to better help you guys find the assistance you need.

You can now browse our newly installed FAQs for self-service, and the previous Call Support and Talk To Support sections are integrated into the Get Help as “Call Us” and “Feedback”.

In each feedback section, you can submit your feedback by different issue types – “account issue”, “technical issue” and “product suggestion”. You’ll have the option to leave your email, describe your issue in details and upload pictures or screenshots to illustrate the issue.

We hope this new update can bring you better customer service as well as helping you navigate to the resource you need at ease. If you wish to see more FAQ topics being added to the app, please feel free to contact us through support@truckerpath.com or the Product Suggestion channel of Feedback in the app. We’ll review your request and try to accommodate your suggestions in the next round of updates.

We appreciate you guys for the support. Stay tuned for our latest update!

TagsTruck Driver Trucker Path Trucking Industry Trucking Tips

Truck Sanitation Tips <h2></h2> During the last few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has begun to have an effect on everyone in the world. While truckers continue to deliver the vital needs of the country, there is continued risk in accumulating and spreading the virus in doing so. There is a lot that we can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Since truck drivers spend more time inside their trucks, it is important to make sure that it is a clean environment for you and for anyone who rides in it. In this article, we have put together a list of tips on how to clean and disinfect your truck. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst2.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst2-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5233" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>1. Choosing Your Cleaning Materials</strong></h3> The first step to cleaning and disinfecting your truck is to choose the right cleaning agents and materials you will use. Isopropyl alcohol is a proven disinfectant, and is also safe to use on most truck interior surfaces. In fact, it is used in many production plants to put a final touch on interior components before they are shipped out. Isopropyl alcohol will remove many stains, smudges and residues, as well as kill bacteria and viruses. However, that stain removing quality can also cause problems with leather. <h2></h2> For leather components such as steering wheels, seating, and trim, a combination of soap and water is a safe and sufficient way to clean them. Avoid hard scrubbing when cleaning your leather interior, and avoid excess suds and water. Hand washing has been recommended as a primary way to protect oneself against infection by COVID-19, this holds true for washing your leather interior as well. <h2></h2> Another cleaning agent is chlorine dioxide (ClO2). It is a common disinfectant and odor eliminator, already prevalent in many shops. It is available in the form of tablets, and depending on the amount of water added, can be used in a vapor or liquid form. <h2></h2> It is recommended to use microfiber towels as cleaning material as it lessens the damage on any surface. Wash the towels thoroughly after each cleaning session. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst3.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst3-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5234" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>2. Cleaning & Disinfecting Truck Interiors</strong></h3> While truck interiors are built to be tough, hard scrubbing or using a rough cloth can cause scratches or even discoloration. A wipe with alcohol on hard surfaces and gentle circular cleaning on upholstery are the best bets for both cleaning and maintaining your truck interior. <h2></h2> It is also very important not to use too much water on your seats. If cloth upholstery soaks through with water, it can get into the cushion beneath. This can cause the growth of mold and that musty smell you will recognize if you've left your windows open in the rain. <h2></h2> If washing the seats of your truck, it is best to wet a cloth or sponge with soap and water and wipe the seats. You do not want to leave excess soap or water, as it can take a long time to dry. Isopropyl alcohol can safely be used on non-leather seats. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst4.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst4-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5235" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>3. Cleaning & Disinfecting Truck Exteriors</strong></h3> Truck exteriors should not be left behind. Wash you trucks regularly at truckstops. Pay attention to the parts which have frequent contact with your hands and shoes such as step boards and exterior door handles. You may clean these areas with soap. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst5.jpeg"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/07/tst5-300x156.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="156" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5236" /></a> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>4. Keeping Clean While on the Road</strong></h3> While you're out, you're exposed to germs and viruses that can follow you back into your truck. If you don't have enough time to do a thorough truck clean, keep in mind of the common contact points such as door handles and controls, keys or start button, steering wheel, gear shift, seats, CB radio, all buttons and knobs on your dash, sun visor, anything touchscreen, the console and cup holders. <h2></h2> You can use disinfectant wipes on most surfaces. Wipe your mobile phones while you're at it too. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Jul 29, 2020 • Carriers

Starting your Career as a Truck Driver [p]Before starting this journey, you should be 100% sure that you want to go down this career path. Remember that despite it being a career that brings in the bucks and takes you to different cities, trucking also involves making sacrifices and paying heavy attention to safety. Familiarize yourself with the industry as much as you can. If you’re ready to begin, then we’ve put together a few pointers that might be useful before you start your career.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Checklist for becoming a Truck Driver[/b][/p] <ol> <li>Obtain Commercial Driver's License.</li> <li>Obtain endorsements for a particular truck/load type if necessary.</li> <li>Buy your own truck and complete necessary insurance/paperwork OR join a trucking company and take on deliveries. </li> </ol> <h2></h2> [p][b] Getting your Commercial Driver's License[/b][/p] [p]You will need to attend a trucking school to train for your CDL Skills Test. On average, it takes about 7 weeks (between $3000 & $7000) to get your CDL whilst completing the program full-time. You will need to dedicate atleast 40 hours a week for your truck driving training. It is also possible to attend a paid CDL program, often held by some of the larger trucking companies. They will teach you how to drive their trucks, get the CDL and give their graduates a driving job. Paid training programs may have an extra set of requirements including a commitment to employment (depending on employer). [/p] [p]To begin pursuing for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL),you will need to fulfill the basic requirements: [/p] <ul> <li>Possess a high school diploma or GED</li> <li>Preserve a good driving record</li> <li>Have a Class D license for at least 1 year and in good standing</li> <li>Be at least 18 years old to drive in-state, 21 to drive state-to-state</li> <li>Possess a social security card</li> <li>Be able to show proof of insurance</li> <li>Pass a 10-year background check</li> <li>Pass TSA screening</li> <li>Pass a medical examination</li> <li>Pass periodic drug tests</li> </ul> <h2></h2> [p][b] Step 1: Get your Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)[/b][/p] [p]The CLP allows you to practice on legal roads with a CDL holder sitting next to you. Besides a countrywide 10-year driving record & health check, your state may have specific requirements. For a better idea, please check your state's CDL Manual. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Step 2: Get your Commercial Drivers License (CDL)[/b][/p] [p]You are required to hold the CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test. Some states may require you to take a CDL training beforehand. The Skills Test has three parts: The Vehicle Inspections Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Once you've pased the test, congrats! You're a certified commercial driver. You may be given the CDL on the same day or send it to you by mail. The CDL cost also varies according to state.[/p] <table> <tr> <td>CDL Application Fee</td> <td>$0 - $43</td> <td>The Commercial Driver's License "application" is the form you will need to complete when applying for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). This form will consist of your Identification Information (everything from your name, addresses, DOB, social security number to current license information),questions related to "Certifications" ("are you a resident in the state you're applying for your CDL in?", "do you have any limitations or medical conditions, either mental or physical?", and other questions related to qualifications). In addition to these questions, the application will ask about "CDL Endorsements" you are trying to obtain. For more on "Endorsements", read on. </td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Endorsement Fee</td> <td>Varies</td> <td>Varies depending on endorsement & state. Six endorsements that can be added: - Double/Triple Trailers (Knowledge Test Only) - Passenger (Knowledge and Skills Tests) - Tank Vehicle (Knowledge Test Only) - Hazardous Materials (Knowledge Test Only) - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials Endorsements (Knowledge Test Only) - School Bus (Knowledge and Skills Tests)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Written Test Fee</td> <td>Upto $125</td> <td>The CDL written test consists of questions on a number of topics, ranging from maintaining safe operating speeds in many types of driving conditions, handling cargo, using an electronic logging device, operating all the systems in the vehicle, and more. Test-takers receive 60 minutes to complete the exam. If the driver would like a particular endorsement (see above),additional questions may be added. Most endorsement tests add an additional 20 to 25 questions. Most states do not set a time limit for the test-taker to answer the endorsement exam questions.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL Skills Test Fee</td> <td>Upto $250</td> <td>The CDL skills test involves a road test, a pre-trip inspection test, and a basic vehicle control test. The skills test is a necessary part of obtaining your CDL. During the skills test, you must drive on the road with a test administrator, so the test must be scheduled in advance. If you have two or more years of experience in driving with the military, you may able to waive the test. </td> </tr> <tr> <td>CDL License Fee</td> <td>Upto $120</td> <td>Once you've passed the CDL exam, you must pay for your commercial driver's license, which can cost upwards of $120. You must renew your CDL on a regular basis, but frequency varies by state. Check your state's requirements to find out more.</td> </tr> </table> [p]There are three types of CDL's for each state.[/p] <table> <tr> <th>Commercial A</th> <td>Any legal combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.</td> </tr> <tr> <th>Commercial B</th> <td>Any single vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR, or a 3-axle vehicle weighing over 6,000 pounds.</td> </tr> <tr> <th>Commercial C</th> <td>Any Class C vehicle with one or more of the following endorsements: - Hazardous Materials (HazMat) - Passenger Vehicle (PV) - Tank Vehicle (TV)</td> </tr> </table> <h2></h2> [p][b] Time to find a Trucking job[/b][/p] [p]As an entry-level trucker, your options may be limited but always ensure your employer provides the right work/life balance and benefits. Choosing between a big or small company also has its differences. Small companies give you a higher pay and closer connections with staff, whereas big companies allow you to grow within the company and work on exciting projects. Most trucking companies aren’t just going to let you out on the road in their own trucks without some sort of training. Training program lengths vary from company to company—but, for the most part, you can expect that they will be at least a few weeks long.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Finding your balance[/b][/p] [p]Once you’ve become more comfortable and have clocked in a few thousand miles, it might be a good idea to think about what’s next. Are you looking to move closer to home and do more regional work? Maybe you’ve got all the skills needed to move from a truck driver to an owner/fleet operator. Think about your goals, your accomplishments/ongoing challenges with truck driving before carefully selecting what’s right.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b] Don’t worry, we’re by your side. [/b][/p] [p] We hope this guide gives you an overview on how to start your exciting trucking career. As a company that’s made by truckers for truckers, we want to make sure you get the job done in the most efficient and safe way possible. With support from our thousands of daily users who rely on our services, we will continue to update our growing features.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Stay in touch![/b][/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Tharaka[/b][/p]

Aug 31, 2021 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Cindy Moore <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/2020/08/cm6.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Cindy</strong>, who's been driving for around 12 years. She's also called The Flatbed Chick on Youtube where she shares her trucking adventures. Let's get to know more about Cindy and how it's like being on the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I became a truck driver out of necessity. I was going through a divorce and needed a steady stream of income and a job that paid enough to support myself without any help and I kept reading about how there was no gender gap in trucking they said a woman could make just as much money as a man. I decided to try it for a couple of years until I could find something better at home and as you can see I never found anything, I’ve been here for almost 12 years. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What were some challenges that you faced when you started out trucking? </strong></h3> The hardest part for me was getting used to public showers. I know it sounds crazy but it was almost traumatizing to think that every time I needed a shower I would have to use a public space. The other big thing was getting used to backing that 53’ foot trailer, it was very intimidating. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/cm5.jpeg" 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> The biggest thing I’ve noticed is a lot more traffic on the road and it seems like instead of creating more parking for trucks they are closing rest areas and making it harder to find parking. Don’t even get me started on hours of service, they don’t want to ever leave that alone and I’m sure they will continue to change in the future searching for perfection, but we as drivers are a very diverse group and we will never have the same needs. They will never come up with rules that will fit everybody, you may need five hours of sleep and I may need 10. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Being on the road for weeks at a time by yourself does get very lonely at times but I have friends to talk to and a few years ago I got a dog to ride with me. She's great companion and brought a lot of joy to my life. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/cm2.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you start a Youtube Channel?</strong></h3> I started my channel because I absolutely fell in love with this beautiful country we live in and none of my family or friends seem to be as interested in it as I was, so I thought there has to be people out there like me who would love to see the country. Before I became a truck driver I had only seen about three other surrounding states and I had no idea how much I had missed all those years. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What keeps you busy nowadays? How did the current Covid-19 situation affect your trucking life?</strong></h3> I’m currently pulling a dry van and trying to stay busy. I still love the flatbed and plan on going back in the future but I’m gonna be trying some other things for now. Covid-19 made it difficult to find a job after the contract ended early in Alaska. A lot of the places I called were either not hiring because of Covid-19 or trying to figure out how to do orientation and putting it off for a few weeks. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/cm3.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves?</strong></h3> My biggest pet peeve is rude and aggressive drivers who seem to not value the lives of other people. For example, cars that pass me on the right after I’ve gotten into the left lane because there’s a tow truck on the right shoulder. <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> My dream for the past several years has been to get an RV and become a travel blogger or full-time RVer, LOL! I still love seeing the country that is the best part of my job and when I retire from trucking I can’t imagine sitting still. I would still want to travel so I think that would be the perfect place for me. I’ve had people suggest that I become a trainer or an instructor at a CDL school but I’m really not sure I would enjoy that because that means I wouldn’t be able to travel anymore. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What is your favorite feature of the Trucker Path app?</strong></h3> My favorite feature on <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> is truck-stop reporting I really love knowing what the truck-stop is gonna look like when I get there and if it’s usually full at a certain time then I know that I need a back up plan. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Favorite Truck-stop? Truck-stop Food?</strong></h3> My favorite truck-stops are the ones that are usually off the beaten path and I love discovering new places to park and new places to eat. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/cm4.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your must haves or the things that you bring with you when on the road</strong></h3> I guess a very popular favorite among truck drivers is also one of my favorites which is baby wipes. I also make sure I have bottled water, soap, and towels just in case. I wouldn’t ever want to be in the truck without my truckers Atlas and a CB either. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite scenic route?</strong></h3> I’m not sure if I really have a favorite scenic route but Highway 20 through Oregon is at the top of my list. I also love Highway 89 and 191 going down through Utah south into Colorado and there are so many beautiful places out there I can’t even think of all of them off the top of my head. Maybe I should start making a list. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring women truckers?</strong></h3> I guess the biggest advice I would have for women that are thinking about getting into this industry is don’t be intimidated by it, if it’s what you truly want to do then follow your heart. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/08/cm7.jpeg" alt=""] <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/UCGcsdVwlU5mfMXRl7bQXaeQ">Youtube Channel,The Flatbed Chick.</a> <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i752gJOJAN8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> <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>

Aug 27, 2020 • Carriers