Nov 26, 2020

Trucking and Thanksgiving

Trucking and Thanksgiving

History of Thanksgiving

America’s most loved holiday is upon us. Yes, it’s Thanksgiving Day! But why do we celebrate Thanksgiving and particularly on a Thursday?

Americans generally believe that Thanksgiving is modeled on a 1621 harvest feast shared by the English colonists of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people. This American holiday is particularly rich in legend and symbolism, and the traditional fare of the Thanksgiving meal typically includes turkey, bread stuffing, potatoes, cranberries, and pumpkin pie.

It was President Abraham Lincoln who proclaimed in 1863 that Thanksgiving would be held the last Thursday of November.

The following day after Thanksgiving is called Black Friday where a lot of holiday shopping deals occur. It’s one of the most profitable days of the year for retailers and businesses.

Trucking and Thanksgiving

The United States is estimated to consume around 50 million turkeys each thanksgiving and nearly $60 billion worth in goods are bought during the “Black Friday weekend,” all of which are being transported by none other than trucks.

You can expect that truck drivers are having a hectic week already, transporting all the food and goods for grocery stores, food joints, shopping centers, and retail outlets.

So, this Thanksgiving, we’d like to give thanks to our hard working truckers out there. Because of you, we enjoy delicious Thanksgiving meals and have goodies to look forward to every Black Friday. If we bought it, truckers brought it.

Happy Thanksgiving from Trucker Path!

Share with us how you’re spending your Thanksgiving. Let us know in the comments.

By Aldous Aldwin

TagsTruckloads Truck Driver Thanksgiving truck drivers Owner Operator trucking Trucker Path Trucking Industry truck stops Truck driver tips Freight Brokers Trucking Tips transportation black friday

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

Trucker Spotlight - Kristy Mathews <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/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Kristy Mathews</strong>, who's one of the three recently crowned Queens of the Road by <a href="http://www.realwomenintrucking.com/">Real Women In Trucking</a>. She's a 36yr-old, born and raised Minnesotan trucking influencer, who isn't scared to take on any job. Big or small she's done it all. Let's get to know more about Kristy and how it's like to be Queen of the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I always had a fascination with the big trucks and machinery we used in the family companies. From the 1st time I got to ride in the truck, I knew that's what i wanted to. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What were some challenges that you faced when you started out trucking? </strong></h3> When I first started driving, I definitely was looked at like I couldn't do it. I was an 18yr old 90lb woman fresh out of high school, but I showed them I had what it would take. I've been looked at as an underdog and its a daily reminder of all the things I was told I couldn't do and I've prevailed through thick and thin. This is my dream and I'll do whatever it takes to succeed. Especially if it's empowering more women to do something they thought they could never do. Positive vibes and strides to the ultimate goal. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-2.jpg" 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> Biggest noticeable changes I've noticed in the industry is lack of common sense and respect for others. We are all in this together like a family once upon a time and now it's all about your 15 seconds of fame on bashing others. I hate what its come to and I always try to instill that brotherhood/sisterhood as much as possible. We need that back, we need to have each other's back. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> I don't have times of loneliness because I'm an introvert. I love the isolation in my truck and all the time to myself. That's also how I think of my next big move in life. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucking pet peeves</strong></h3> I have a lot of trucking peeves but I would like to think of the positives and not get set back by something I can't change. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Being Queen of the Road, how would you want to change or improve on the current situation of the trucking industry?</strong></h3> If I could change or improve current situations in the industry, it would have to be getting our voices heard across the board from big things like rules regulations and HOS, to increasing truck parking so drivers can have a restful sleep and safe havens. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What keeps you busy nowadays? How did the current Covid-19 situation affect your trucking life?</strong></h3> Work keeps me plenty busy. I work hard so I can play harder. I love taking vacations. It is something I never grew up doing with my family so now I'm living my best life. Covid-19 hasn't really affected me all that much. I've been to every hot spot delivering medical supplies. If anything, it was humbling in the beginning knowing I'm doing something to help and these loads were needed, but it's honestly no different than any other day. <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> Looking into my future, it's my goal to get my non-profit initiative started. Breast cancer screening is a big deal (has deep meaning to me) and I want to be able to help females in the trucking industry get the screenings they need more conveniently, more affordable options for preventative care, mastectomies, and down time since we all know if the wheels aren't turning you ain't earning. Also part of it, I'd like to help females wanting to come into the industry with grants to get them schooling they need to succeed, and graduating high school students scholarships to anyone wanting to go into the medical field. I have some big dreams and goals I plan to achieve. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Favorite truck model?</strong></h3> I'd love to own, restore, and drive a 1957 Mack B61 twin stick. If i had time and a lot of extra money, that would be my dream right there. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your must haves or the things that you bring with you when on the road?</strong></h3> My best must haves are an atlas, <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path app</a>, and my phone. I like to keep it simple. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tp-sp-blog-kristy-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring women truckers?</strong></h3> Women wanting to delve into this industry should not come in with an "I am woman hear me roar" BS attitude. We are all in this together, doing this together. The best way to succeed is to be humble, strong, thick skinned, and help others asking for help. <h2></h2> <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>

Sep 04, 2020 • Carriers

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