Oct 05, 2017 • Carriers

Trucker Terms

Trucker Terms

If you’re going to make it in trucking these are the trucker terms you’ll want to remember along with some good ole trucking slang you’ll hear on the CB radio.

Trucker Terms

Being a trucker is not only a unique way of life, it also comes with a unique way of communicating that only those in the trucking industry probably can decipher and understand.

10-4 – acknowledging something

10-6 – busy right now

10-8 – en route

20 – location

4-Wheeler – automobile

APU – authorized pick-up

Backhaul – retuning load to home location

Bear Trap – speed radar trap

Bill of Lading – document that details information regarding the goods being hauled by a carrier from a shipper

Chicken Coop – Weigh Station

Chicken Lights – Added lights on and around a truck

Chocks –blocks placed in front and behind wheels to prevent truck from rolling

Cosignee – person who receives the goods

Cosignor – person who ships the goods

County Mounty – – county sheriff

Deadhead – miles driven with no load

Dry Van –standard enclosed truck trailer

ETA – estimated time of arrival

Freightshaker – Freightliner truck

GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – combined wieght of tractor/trailer and load

Gear Jammer –speeding driver

Hammer Down – drive faster

Hopper – truck that empties load through bottom that opens

HOS –hours of service

Intermodal – shipping container freight

Jack-Knife –when trailer is pushed to the side of the tractor

K-whopper – Kenworth truck

Kingpin – pin where the axel wheel pivots

LTL (Less Than Truckload) – load less than 10,000 lbs.

Motor Carrier – person or company that is responsible for transporting goods via a commercial motor vehicle

P&D Driver – pickup and delivery driver locally

Payload – weight of the load

Peddle Run – route with lots of deliveries

Pete – Peterbilt truck

RC (Rate Confirmation) – the rate shipper or broker agrees to pay carrier to haul a load

Reefer – refridgerated truck trailer

Shiny Side Up – top of truck; don’t crash or roll over

Sliding Fifth Wheel – fifth wheel that can be slid back to redistrubute weight on the axels

Trucking Authority –FMCSA approval to haul loads

Willy Weaver – drunk driver

Using Trucker Path Along Your Route

Now that you know the trucker terms and are talking like a real driver, it’s time you use a tool that most truckers rely on to help them save time and money – the Trucker Path app.

Trucker Path is free to download and helps drivers:

Find truck parking with real-time updates
Browse through the list of amenities a location offers
Check to see if a weigh station is open or not
View Walmart locations and know if they allow truck parking
Compare diesel prices to save on fuel
Plan their route to show locations along their trip
Read through fellow drivers reviews of a location
Find restaurants near truck parking locations and much more!

Try Trucker Path Today!

Tagstruck drivers

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

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

Top 50 Freight Broker Companies [h2]Top 50 Freight Broker Companies [/h2] [p]Freight broker companies specialize in moving freight that includes truck loads, air freight, and even rail. <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/what-is-a-freight-broker/">Freight brokers </a> are responsible for finding truck load carriers to haul freight for their client's. [/p] [p]Just how important are freight broker companies? Well, in 2016, trucks moved 10.42 billion tons of freight in America. Televisions, dishwashers, machinery, fresh produce, even homes - trucks do it all.[/p] [h2] Top 50 Freight Broker Companies [/h2] [p] The top freight brokers are based on the company's net revenue, which also means those companies listed below are considered the most profitable freight broker companies. [/p] [ol] [li] C.H. Robinson[/li] [li] TQL[/li] [li] XPO Logistics[/li] [li] Echo Global Logistics[/li] [li] Coyote Logistics[/li] [li] Landstar[/li] [li] Worldwide Express[/li] [li] Sunteck TTS[/li] [li] Crane Logistics[/li] [li] Mode Transportation[/li] [li] J.B. Hunt[/li] [li] BNSF Logistics[/li] [li] Global Tranz[/li] [li] Yusen Logistics[/li] [li] England Logistics[/li] [li] KAG Logistics[/li] [li] Transplace[/li] [li] Werner Global Logistics[/li] [li] ArcBest [/li] [li] Unishippers Global[/li] [li] ReTrans[/li] [li] Trinity Logistics[/li] [li] PLS Logistics[/li] [li] Matson Logistics Services[/li] [li] Nolan Transportation Group[/li] [li] FLS Transportation[/li] [li] ATS Logistics[/li] [li] Redwood Logistics[/li] [li] Knight Transportation[/li] [li] Choptank Transport[/li] [li] Patterson Co.[/li] [li] AFN[/li] [li] BlueGrace Logistics[/li] [li] Cornerstone System[/li] [li] Radiant Logistics[/li] [li] Champion Logistics Group[/li] [li] Strive Logistics[/li] [li] NFI[/li] [li] USAT Logistics[/li] [li] Integrity Express Logistics[/li] [li] MegaCorp Logistics [/li] [li] Diversified Transportation Services[/li] [li] Scott Logistics Corp.[/li] [li] Johnson Transportation Service[/li] [li] Celadon Group[/li] [li] Marten Transport[/li] [li] Ruran[/li] [li] Triple T Transport[/li] [li] Blue Ribbon Transport[/li] [li] Swift Logistics[/li] [/ol] [h2] Broker Load Board - Truckloads [/h2] [p] Freight brokers can use <strong> Truckloads </strong> load board to post available <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/truck-freight/">truck freight </a> in order to reach over 100,000 qualified carriers and use features such as truck search, making it easier than ever to find carriers to haul a load! [/p] [ul] [li] 100k+ qualified carriers [/li] [li] Post loads via TMS, CSV or various other integrations [/li] [li] Confirm a carrier's Safer Rating [/li] [li] See how many times a loads been viewed [/li] [li] Search for Available Trucks ready to haul now! [/li] [/ul] [p]Best of all, <strong>Truckloads is FREE to use!</strong> [/p] [p]So what are you are waiting for? Start posting loads and find carriers today.[/p] [video id=o_tsuJHWayo] [button text="Post to Truckloads" href="https://ship.truckerpath.com/signup?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=topfreightcompanies&utm_campaign=Sept26" width="250px"]

Sep 27, 2017 • Brokers