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

How Do Freight Brokers Find Shippers [p] Freight brokers need to find shippers in order to connect them with carriers and move freight. How do freight brokers find shippers is an age-old question and one new freight brokers need answers too. Here are seven ways how freight brokers find shippers.[/p] [h2] How Do Freight Brokers Find Shippers? [/h2] [p]For freight brokers to find shippers, it's important to understand consumer products. Who manufactures them? Where do they come from? How many products do they sell? These are the sort of questions you need to target to know how freight brokers find shippers.[/p] [h2] 1. The Leads Surround You [/h2] [p]Look around you, regardless of where you are the things you see were most likely freight hauled and delivered by trucks, after all, over 70 percent of all freight in America moves by truck. Furniture, office equipment, consumer electronics, clothes, they are all types of freight that shippers need to be hauled from one point to another. As a freight broker, you can find shippers by doing research on the products you see every day to find out where they are manufactured and how they are transported. [/p] [giphy] <iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/xT39CYwjsPWvIfw6UE" width="480" height="270" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe>[/giphy] [h2] 2. Review Your Purchase History and Compare [/h2] [p] Drawing a blank or feeling helpless in finding shippers? Reviewing your own purchases can be a great starting place. Whether it's the receipts from the store or your online Amazon order history, the products you purchase are manufactured and transported from somewhere. [/p] [p]As a freight broker looking to find shippers, you have to get creative at times and go beyond the normal trains of thought. Understand how companies are connected and if one lead doesn't pan out or isn't a viable option, don't give up, there are seemingly endless possibilities. [/p] [h2] 3. Look at the Competition [/h2] [p] Every product that is moved by freight has competitors, it's a natural occurrence and a driving force of the capitalist economy. Take a large company like John Deere. They proudly manufacture varieties of tractors with manufacturing plants in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Georgia. [/p] [p]Despite being a Fortune 500 company and having a tremendous market share, John Deere has a lot of competition in the tractor industry. Using a tool like <a href="http://financials.morningstar.com/competitors/industry-peer.action?t=DE&region=usa&culture=en-US">MorningStar Financial </a> you can get insight into who's its competitors are by clicking on the industry peers tab. Freight brokers can do this search for any publically traded company.[/p] [h2] 4. Use MacRae's Blue Book and Other Shippers Lists [/h2] [p] <a href="http://www.macraesbluebook.com/menu/product_heading.cfm?groupid=2533">MacRae's Blue Book</a> is an industrial directory that provides detailed information about manufacturing companies. You can search through companies based on the types of products they manufacture and the detailed information about a company will even include freight rate estimates for you to compare. [/p] [p] Other manufacturing lists such as <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/08/Top-500-Manufacturing-Companies-USA.pdf">The Industry Week 500</a> are great guides to help freight brokers find shippers. Companies such as Boeing and General Electric have a tremendous amount of supplies both in receiving and shipping of freight. Use the list as a starting point to help you find suppliers for these companies. [/p] [p] Ever wonder how many parts are required for Boeing to build one of its 737 planes? 367,000 parts. Suppliers of those parts are sourced from all over the nation (even world) and are often times small to medium sized businesses that may not have the resources to handle their own freight. This is where freight brokers can use the magic of Google to find shippers. [/p] [p] Search <a href="http://www.airframer.com/aircraft_detail.html?model=B737">"Boeing 737 Suppliers" </a> and boom, a full list of the suppliers for the aircraft including company details and contact information. [/p] [h2] 5. Livestock, Produce and the USDA [/h2] [p]Produce is shipped across the country to satisfy consumer demand. Who doesn't love guacamole even in the winter time just in time for the big game right? Produce locations vary based on the season, though you can conclude that Florida has fruits, Texas has avocados, the Midwest has corn and the Pacific Northwestern has apples. [/p] [p] You can use the <a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/business-listings">USDA business listings</a> to locate farmers that grow crops or raise cattle, poultry, and other livestock and contact them as well.[/p] [h2] 6. Satellite View of Company Buildings [/h2] [p] Continuing to rely on Google and being imaginative in your searches to find shippers, freight brokers can use Google Maps satellite and street views of a building to see if it has shipping and receiving docks. You can spend hours just going street by street in industrial areas, verifying if a location has docks. From there you can do research the company to find out what they do and find out how they ship freight. [/p] [h2] 7. Cold Calling Shippers [/h2] [p] Yes, cold calling is still alive and well. Once you find a shipper you will need to contact them in order to gauge their potential interest in using a freight broker. It's easy to send a quick email but the chances of getting a response are quite low. The best way to connect with shippers is by calling them directly and be straight-forward in your dialogue. [/p] [p] A sales pitch isn't necessary and can be off-putting, but you should describe who you work for, company background or achievements, where you're looking to move freight through and see how you can be of assistance. Remember, you are there to provide them a service so it's imperative that you listen to their needs and how you might be able to address their pain points.[/p] [p]You'll need to understand how the shipper currently transports freight and see if there is an opportunity you can capitalize on. Undoubtedly, a significant portion of shippers will turn you down, but it's a numbers game and you'll never know if you have potential clients or not until you call.[/p] [h2] Relationships, Trust and Load Boards [/h2] [p] Finding shippers is only one aspect of the journey to be a successful freight broker. You'll need to cultivate relationships and build a reputation for being dependable when servicing your shipping clients. To do this you will need to rely on load boards like <strong>Truckloads</strong> with over 100,000 qualified carriers that you can connect with to haul freight for the shipper. [/p] [p]As a freight broker you'll also want to develop a rapport with carriers, especially the qualified ones. Once you use a carrier to move freight that you trust and have a good working relationship with, continue to use them and provide them with the opportunities they desire to maintain the relationship. [/p] [video id=snyBYpnuhWw] [button text="Try Truckloads for Free" href="https://ship.truckerpath.com/signup?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=findshippers&utm_campaign=Aug16" width="250px"]

Aug 16, 2017 • Brokers

Trucker Spotlight - Tierra Allen <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/2020/11/ts-tierra_young-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Tierra Allen</strong>, AKA The Sassy Trucker on Youtube. She's been driving for 3 1/2 years now. She enjoys driving and traveling the world and wanted to drive a truck since she was 18. Let's get to more about Tierra and her sassy life of trucking. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I decided to become a truck driver because I like the flexible schedule. I like the fact that i don’t have a boss looking over my shoulder 24/7. Most importantly i get paid to travel. <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> I’ve noticed more and more women are getting into trucking. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-tierra_young-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> I decided to make a Youtube channel to share my experiences with everyone and to encourage and influence others to decide if they want to become a truck driver. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Whenever I get lonely, I talk on the phone with friends and listen to podcasts and music. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-tierra_young-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> Us truck drivers put our health at risk because we high a high chance of catching Covid19 because we are driving cross country. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model?</strong></h3> My favorite truck is the Kenworth Studio Sleeper . <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-tierra_young-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> I want to become an actor. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> The best truck stop for me is Petro truck stop. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> As a female, I encounter a lot of harassment, hate, and other truckers underestimating me because I am in a male dominated field. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/11/ts-tierra_young-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> I dislike how some cars tend to cut truck drivers off. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your trucker essentials when you drive?</strong></h3> Dash cam, GPS, bluetooth headset, refrigerator, microwave, sleeper bag, emergency bag, and boots. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> What I enjoy the most about <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> is the fueling feature. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Be prepared to work in crazy weather conditions. <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/c/TheSassyTrucker/videos">Youtube Channel, The Sassy Trucker</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/20ZfEa9_J88" 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>

Nov 05, 2020 • Carriers

How to Kick-off your Trucking Career [p]If you like road trips and you get excited by the idea of earning money while living ‘life on the road’ then trucking is for you. Trucking is one of the biggest industries in the world and extremely important for the survival and efficient function of an economy. As such, trucking not only helps support the economy, but also helps build it. At the moment around <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/trucking-industry-facts-us-truckers-2019-5-1028248577#truck-drivers-earn-less-than-most-americans-in-terms-of-annual-income10">6% of all the jobs available in the U.S are in the trucking industry</a> with more than 7 million people working in the industry right now. The number is growing each year as dependency on trucking increases.[/p] [p]That sounds like an industry where the future is secure and employment guaranteed if you are good at the job. Sounds good right? It sure does but before you can get anywhere near a truck you need to fulfill some obligations like getting a license, choosing a trucking company, and more. Follow the steps below to get started with your stint as a truck driver. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/2-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Make Up Your Mind [/b][/p] [p]It is extremely important to get yourself mentally ready before even thinking about getting a license. Trucking sounds exciting but the job is mentally and physically taxing. At times you are required to sleep at truck stops, in cheap motels, or inside your truck's cabin. There aren't many decent places to take a shower and you will eventually run into some dirty truck stops. You may also meet some rude people which will definitely test your patience. Most importantly, you are away from your family for lengthy periods. Therefore, never decide in haste. Sit down and think about it but once you make up your mind do not look back as only excitement and adventure come ahead.[/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/3.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Apply for a CDL[/b][/p] [p]The first step on the road to becoming a truck driver is to get a commercial driving license (CDL). The CDL is divided into three main categories in North America: [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/cdl_types.jpeg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p]If your goal is to become a big-rig driver then you need a Class A license. To get that you need to enter into a trucking school. This institute is much like a driving school except in a trucking school you are taught advanced methods of driving a large vehicle. There you will be required to practice and hone your skills both in the classroom and on the field. Generally, trucking school starts at $3,000 for a beginner program. You may avoid paying the whole cost of the trucking school by availing of some financial aid options. If you sign with a carrier before graduation, they may cover some of your educational expenses. Some schools in areas with trucker shortages may also offer scholarships to its students. You are eligible to apply for a Class A license once you have completed at least 160 hours or roughly 10 weeks of training. [/p] [p]Once you have that many hours under your belt simply go to a state-mandated testing facility, pass your test with flying colors and you are good to go. Afterward, you need to go to the licensing authority in your state where you will be required to show your identification, proof of state residency, your Social Security Number (SSN),and proof of passing the CDL exam. The training program for a CDL can last for 3 to 4 weeks so if you are motivated you can get started with your trucking career within a matter of months. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/4.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Pick A Trucking Company[/b][/p] [p]The next step in your road to becoming a truck driver is choosing a good trucking company. There are many good local and national companies across America. That is a good thing because you have the power to choose and differentiate between various trucking companies. As such you should always look for renowned companies that have a good name in the industry. The last thing you want is to end up in a trucking company that is not financially stable and that doesn’t provide you with job perks. [/p] [p]A good company may provide you with health insurance, life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave pay, and more. So choose wisely but don’t waste too much time stalling![/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/5.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Accept the First Good Job [/b][/p] [p]Most newcomers in the trucking industry waste time by waiting for the right opportunity, the “perfect route”. But that is not advisable. You are a fresh trucker who has just gotten his/her license. It is better to get some and any experience under your belt as soon as possible. Ultimately, the number of hours you spend driving will help you in the future to move up the ladder to better trucking companies. That can also lead to better job perks, better opportunities as a trucker, and a handsome salary. If you wait, a very good trucking contract may come your way but that is a rare possibility. By then, your peers would have moved further up the ladder on to greener pastures while you start late and experience the grit of a newcomer in a tough industry. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final Thoughts[/b][/p] [p]It is not very hard to get into the trucking business if you have the right mindset and you are motivated. Yes, you may face financial burdens in the beginning but seeing that the <a href="https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/06/america-keeps-on-trucking.html#:~:text=More%20than%203.5%20million%20people,occupations%20in%20the%20United%20States.">average trucker</a> makes $50,000 - $60,000 per year the initial burden might not feel a lot to bear. However, you would have to spend time away from family but in the end, all of this is worth the effort. The trucking industry is here to stay and you can make the most of it while having a grand adventure and enjoying the magnificent views in your big rig! [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Sep 08, 2020 • Carriers