Feb 12, 2021 • Community

Trucker Spotlight - Matthew Eso

Trucker Spotlight - Matthew Eso

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.

Today we are putting the spotlight on Matthew Eso, who’s also known as The Little Guy on Youtube. He’s been driving trucks since 2012 and shares the same love for trucking with his father and grandfather. Let’s get to know more about Matthew and his trucking life.

What made you decide to be a trucker?

It’s something I always wanted to do because it runs in my family.

What attributes must one have in order to be a successful truck driver?

In order to be successful in this trucking game you have to know what you want first. Then chase it.

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had while over the road?

Most memorable time on the road has to be when I took my son with me. Just watching his face light up from all the things he was seeing.

What’s your favorite Truck Brand / Model?

Big fan of old school long hood trucks.

Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?

Always wanted to operate heavy machinery.

What’s the best truck stop for you?

My favorite one is the Joplin 44 Petro with the chrome shop. Place is a truckers toy store.

What was the worst breakdown or setback you’ve experienced while OTR?

Starting a Lease Purchase and the truck being a lemon off the lot.

We’re glad that you use the Trucker Path on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?

Having all of the points of interest a trucker uses in the Trucker Path application is by far the best feature next to the turn by turn navigation.

What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?

Tips for others are be safe, stay hungry, and don’t let anyone say you can’t do it.

Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?

They can view my videos on my Youtube Channel, The Little Guy Show.

Hope you guys enjoy!

By Aldous Aldwin

TagsTruck Driver truck drivers trucking Trucker Path Truck driver tips Owner Operators Technology Trucking Tips transportation Trucker Spotlight

ELD Mandate Exemptions [p]Get clarification on electronic logging devices and ELD mandate exemptions set to take effect in December 2017. [/p] [h2]ELD Mandate Exemptions[/h2] [p]As of December 18, 2017, most drivers that currently use paper logs will have to switch over to an electronic logging device. The choices will be an automatic onboard recording device (AOBRD) meeting the current requirements in §395.15, installed before December 18, 2017, or a device meeting the electronic logging device (ELD) standards found in Subpart B to Part 395 and the associated appendix.[/p] [p]There are <strong>five ELD Mandate exemptions</strong> including:[/p] [ul] [li]Drivers that only had to fill out a log eight or fewer days out of the last 30 days. This would include “short-haul” drivers that normally operate under the 100 and 150 air-mile exceptions and intermittent drivers.[/li] [li]Drivers operating a vehicle older than the model year 2000. This also applies to the model year 2000 and newer vehicles that do not have the original engine in them, if the engine serial number indicates that the engine is older than the model year 2000. [/li] [li]Drivers operating a vehicle that is part of a driveaway/towaway shipment. [/li] [li]Drivers driving or towing a recreational vehicle that is part of a driveaway/towaway shipment.[/li] [li]Drivers who are driving a truck that was rented for eight days or less. [/li] [/ul] [p]How are officers on the road going to verify that a driver claiming one of the exemptions is actually entitled to it? It is easier than you might think. [/p] [h2]ELD Exemptions and Short-Haul Drivers[/h2] [p]During a roadside inspection, the officer can contact the carrier for the time records related to a driver he/she is inspecting. The officer can then verify that the driver is complying with the terms of the 100 or 150 air-mile exemptions. This simply involves the officer verifying that there were time records and they showed the driver staying under the limits attached to the exemption. [/p] [p]If the records show the driver as operating under the 100 or 150 air-mile exception often enough, there would be no violation for the driver not using an ELD.[/p] [p]As far as intermittent drivers, the officer will inquire as to how many days the driver has worked out of the last 30. If it ends up to be 8 or fewer out of any 30-day period, there is no violation.[/p] [h2]ELD Exemptions on Older Vehicles[/h2] [p]To verify that the driver can use paper logs due to the age of the vehicle, the officer will simply check the vehicle identification number (VIN). If the VIN indicates that the vehicle is the model year 1999 or older vehicle, there will be no violation for the driver using a paper log rather than an electronic log.[/p] [p]How is this determined? [/p] [p]The model year is coded in the vehicle’s VIN at the 10th position. Presently, 2000 and newer vehicles have Y, 1 to 9, or A to H in the 10th position (i, o, u, and z are not used in VINs by the way). If the 10th digit is anything other than those listed, the vehicle is manufactured before 2000.[/p] [p]In the case of the model year, 2000 or newer vehicle that has been retrofitted with the model year 1999 or older engine, to determine if the engine is manufactured before the year 2000, the officer will ask to see the engine serial number. Using the serial number and available software, the officer can quickly validate the engine model year.[/p] [h2]Driveaway/Towaway ELD Exemptions[/h2] [p]To verify that the driver is allowed to use the driveaway/towaway exception to use a paper log rather than an electronic log after December 18, 2017, all the officer or auditor needs to do is ask for the shipment paperwork. The shipment paperwork will then be used to verify that the vehicle the driver is operating is part of the shipment. If so, then there would be no violation for the driver using a paper log rather than an electronic logging device.[/p] [h2]Rented Trucks[/h2] [p]To verify that a driver is allowed to use the rented truck exemption, the driver must be able to present the rental agreement showing that the vehicle is being rented for 8 days or less. The driver must use paper logs and have records for the previous seven days. Printouts from an ELD system are acceptable. The exemption does not cover “leased” vehicles or vehicles rented for more than 8 days. Multiple back-to-back rental agreements will result in the carrier being cited for not using ELDs.[/p] [h2]Still Confused about ELD Mandate Exemptions?[/h2] [p]If you’re still confused about Exemptions to the mandate or wondering if you need to comply with the ELD mandate, contact J.J. Keller for a free ELD Exemption Assessment. Their ELD specialist will guide you through 21 questions created by their hours of service subject matter experts to help you determine if you are exempt from using ELDs. Call the ELD Exemption hotline at 888-531-8899 or <strong>request an assessment <a href="https://www.jjkeller.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/infoform_10151_-1_10551_52145?cm_mmc=Misc-_-ELDExemptionAssessment-_-eldexempt-_-null">here</strong></a>.[/p] [p]<strong>J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.</strong>[/p] [p]Since its beginning as a one-man consulting firm in 1953, J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has grown to become the most respected name in safety and regulatory compliance. Now over 1,400 associates strong, J. J. Keller serves over 600,000 customers — including over 90% of the Fortune 1000® companies. The company’s subject-matter expertise spans nearly 1,500 topics, and its diverse solutions include ELogs and mobile technology; training via online courses, streaming video or DVD; online management tools; managed services; consulting services; online and print publications; forms and supplies.[/p] <strong>[p]About the Author:[/p]</strong> [p]Tom Bray has been with J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. for 11 years. However, as he does not get enough excitement working at J. J. Keller and chasing after six kids and nine grandkids, he also chooses to work nights and weekends as a firefighter/EMT.[/p]

Oct 26, 2017 • 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

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help <h2></h2> What's up Trucker Path users! <h2></h2> We've just released the latest version 4.3.0 of Trucker Path in both <a href="http://bit.ly/truckerpathdroid">Google Play Store</a> and <a href="http://bit.ly/truckerpathios">Apple App Store</a>. 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 “<strong>Get Help</strong>” section to better help you guys find the assistance you need. <h2></h2> 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 “<strong>Call Us</strong>” and “<strong>Feedback</strong>”. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-1-1.png"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-1-1.png" alt="" width="600" height="614" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5673" /></a> <h2></h2> In each feedback section, you can submit your feedback by different issue types – “<strong>account issue</strong>”, “<strong>technical issue</strong>” and “<strong>product suggestion</strong>”. You'll have the option to leave your email, describe your issue in details and upload pictures or screenshots to illustrate the issue. <h2></h2> <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-2.png"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/TP-BLOG-GetHelp-2.png" alt="" width="600" height="614" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5650" /></a> <h2></h2> <h2></h2> 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 <a href="mailto:support@truckerpath.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">support@truckerpath.com</a> 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. <h2></h2> <h2></h2> We appreciate you guys for the support. Stay tuned for our latest update! <h2></h2>

Nov 27, 2020 • Community