Aug 15, 2017 • Community

Trucking Industry Trends

Trucking Industry Trends

Trucking Industry Trends

The trucking industry trends reveal the importance of truck freight in America and freight revenue forecasts to grow by 75 percent over the next nine years.

The trucking industry has powered America for over a century moving 70 percent of all freight. As truck drivers move freight across the country so moves our economy. What are the trucking industry trends for 2016? We reveal the answers!

In 2016, the trucking industry:

Generated $676.2 billion in revenue
Accounted for 79.8% of the nation’s freight bill
Moved 10.42 billion tons of freight
Moved 70.6% of all domestic freight tonnage
3.68 million Class 8 trucks registered
Traveled 450.4 billion miles
Powered by small business – 91% of carriers operate six trucks or less
1 in 15 jobs in America is in the trucking industry

“The information in Trends highlights exactly what I tell elected officials, regulators and key decision-makers every day: trucking is literally the driving force behind our great economy,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “Safe, reliable and efficient motor carriers enable businesses throughout the supply chain to maintain lean inventories, thereby saving the economy billions of dollars each year.”

How Truck Drivers Benefit from Trucker Path

The Trucker Path app allows truck drivers to save an estimated 11 hours per month! Whether it’s finding a place to park at a truck stop, rest area, see if a weigh station is open or closed, even planning an entire route in advance, Trucker Path is a must have and free to download.

“This app should be called ‘Truckers Guide to Survival’ good work guys. Literally, everything you need at your fingertips.” – Google Play user review.

Their words, not ours.

Find out where the best truck stops in America are with our comprehensive rankings based on reviews and data sourced from hundreds of thousands of truck drivers!

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TagsTrucking Industry

Trucker Spotlight - Matthew Garnett <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/tsmg-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Matthew Garnett</strong>, who's been driving for around 10 years now. Trucking is his 3rd career and he was previously a pastor and a front man for a rock band. Let's get to know more about Matt and how his path made its way into trucking. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> Driving trucks was a childhood dream of mine. But of course when I grew up as a teen, the expectation was to go to college and “get a real job". It was only when I was at my wits end with “real jobs", that I decided to pursue this age old dream. Let me say this, driving trucks is the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done. It was the best decision I’ve ever made. The only regret I have is that I didn’t go into trucking sooner! <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> The biggest thing is the change in the Hours of Service regulations. It seems like this is something Uncle Sam can’t settle on. Every time we turn around, it seems like the noose tightens more. I wrote an article for <a href="https://thefederalist.com/2017/09/13/truck-driver-overregulation-literally-looks-like-government-deciding-work-eat-sleep/">TheFederalist</a> as well as interviewed on <a href="https://youtu.be/IR4bCB4WpAI">Fox and Friends</a> about this issue. <h2></h2> The bottom line is, it makes us truckers hurry more instead of keeping the motoring public safe. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tsmg-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> Trucking companies do their best to train drivers but unfortunately there’s nothing better than on the ground experience. I only wish I had some open deck trucking vet showing me the basics of things via a first person camera. Put simply, there was a lot that I didn’t get in training that I had to learn the hard way. Why should guys have to learn the hard way when I can show them via my own personal experience on a Youtube channel? <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> No doubt. You’re not going to avoid that. The way I deal with it is constantly occupying my mind. Each day, I have a plan to learn something new each. I have a plan to listen to radio stations and podcasts that will motivate me to keep trucking. One thing I have found very helpful is to listen to podcasts that feature our war fighters. Listening to those men talk about how they’ve defended my freedom to drive trucks gets me through those rough times. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tsmg-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> It’s been good for us truckers. The biggest “struggle” has been being required to wear a mask when at shippers and receivers. It’s been a wise move to deem us as “essential”. We’ll throw the rest of you on our backs and get the economy back to normal. <h2></h2> Incidentally, I was on <a href="https://youtu.be/xv_s2WplTk4">Fox Business News</a> with Neil Cavuto discussing this topic. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your usual routes? Favorite scenic truck route?</strong></h3> One of the most beautiful routes is I40 out of the Carolinas into Tennessee. The fact you have to shift a lot there is overcome by the beauty of those Smokies! As of late, I’m stuck in the Midwest running regional. But still, some loads put me right on Lake Michigan. A lot of loads put me in the middle of corn fields. Sure I love the spectacular scenery, but looking at acres and acres of corn still inspires me. The rows are perfectly straight. Some farmer took the time to make that happen and I love it. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tsmg-blog-6.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What was your weirdest or most unusual haul?</strong></h3> I’ve hauled a lot of strange and irregular stuff running open deck, but the one that sticks out to me is a haul I did when I was training with my veteran teacher, Gary. Gary and I got a run picking up on a farm in the middle of nowhere Nebraska. Honestly, we thought we were lost on the way to the pickup. We were on a narrow dirt road and both of us thought, “This can’t be right……”. Turns out we were picking up a load of potatoes from a small farmer to deliver to Kansas City. It was a unique loading process into our dry van. The unloading was even more amazing. There, we had to detach from the trailer and watch as a gigantic crane and conveyer picked up our trailer into mid-air and emptied it out like a giant emptying out a can of soup! To be sure, if wasn’t hooked on trucking before then, I knew this is what I wanted to do. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>How often do you use rest stops / truck stops? What are the things that you look for in a truck stop? Favorite truck stop meal?</strong></h3> Truck stops are a part of the life unless you’re a home daily driver. Being a regional driver, I know the best places to stop for the stuff I’m looking for which is two things: water and coffee. I’ve found that it pays to have your own food and a way to cook it (microwave) already on board. You want to be as self contained as possible. Still, I treat myself to a triple cheeseburger with fries once a week. Don’t do that everyday. But still, you’ve got to give yourself a break! Find a spot to get that sammich! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tsmg-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> Driving flatbed means you’re going to get into pickles. You’re going to roll into construction sites that are tight and where you most likely will get stuck…..like stuck where the crane man has to pull you out. Biggest thing is, don’t panic. Take your time and don’t tear up your equipment no matter what. Also, weight is both a blessing and a curse. Weight / over-dimension and miles is big bucks. But if you get popped for being overweight on an axel, that big money now goes to Uncle Sam. Make sure you know how to axel out your truck and run legally. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> My Number One pet peeve is that Four-Wheelers do not know how to merge onto interstates! Don’t give them the time of day. It’s not my responsibility to help them merge. If you don’t know how to merge, sell your car and take the bus! You have a brake and an accelerator. Either go ahead of me on the ramp or drop back. I ain’t changing lanes for you unless it’s in my interest to do so. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/tsmg-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <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> The <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">Trucker Path</a> app is fantastic. It tells me first and foremost if a truck scale is open or closed. Also, the parking feature is very accurate. It’s a Google maps for truckers. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> Do not let your pride get you into an accident. If you’re not sure, don’t do it. Yeah some jackasses might try to make fun of you, but pay them no mind. Always ask questions. The worst drivers are those who act like they know it all. Make it your goal that once you’re driving 50 years you’re still willing to learn and ask questions. <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/UCb0huNWBw2OPZeRu6JAyz7Q">Youtube Channel, Trucker Hacks</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4rTSTnqCVCk" 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>

Sep 17, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Larry Cothran <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/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Larry Cothran</strong>, a.k.a. L- Boogie. He's been driving trucks for more than 13 years and is also a businessman. He is the owner and founder of Ministry Marketing Pro. He's also an entrepreneur who has been helping businesses, political leaders and churches leverage the power of social media. <h2></h2> After realizing there was a lack of churches using social media to spread the gospel, he decided to focus his efforts and marketing strategies on churches. <h2></h2> Larry took the knowledge he learned over his 18+ years of studying marketing and advertising and created unique strategies that applied specifically to churches. Let's get to know more about Larry, his trucking life and, his ministry. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> Truthfully, I needed a job and I needed something that would be self sustainable. Something that would always be in demand. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-2.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> The biggest change has been going from paper logs to e-logs, plus the DEF addition to the trucks. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> I wanted to help other truckers and entrepreneurs. I wanted to give information because when I started there was a limited amount of people to talk to that would give me truthful information . <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Yes. I’ve had to deal with loneliness on the road. When I first started out, I missed Christmas, my son’s first steps, birthdays and etc. I learned to deal with it by watching movies on the laptop, talking with friends and family on the phone. As the times started going, by I would become more useful with the time and use it to study my Bible, create content or counsel different people I met along the way while driving. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> Having to wear a mask and forgetting to wear a mask. There are limited places to sit down and eat. Mostly everything has to be done in the truck. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model?</strong></h3> I love the Volvo 780 with the table and bed in it. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> Yes, I love doing marketing for churches, small businesses and politicians so I’m focusing more time on that so that I can eventually transition into full time ministry and become a motivational speaker so that I can share my story to the youth. I’m also a published author with a book called “More Than A Conqueror” which can be purchased on Amazon and I plan on writing more books. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> I love going to Loves. It’s clean and friendly. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> Most common problems are breakdowns and traffic delays, but the biggest is health and weight management. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> Cars that cut you off and then press the breaks. Distracted driving. There are a lot of people that text and drive and drink and drive. I continually have to drive for 5 which is defensive driving. <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> The feature of Trucker Path that tells you how full the truck stop based on the truckers response. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> First get a mentor. There’s nothing wrong with apprenticeship before ownership. Learn all you can while you’re training and during your 1st year. You won’t make much money the 1st year but if you continue you will make the money you deserve later. Keep your record clean and be safe. <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/user/fastestfoot">Youtube Channel, L Boogie</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K9bQ1RmUZo8" 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>

Dec 16, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Path's Bobblehead Photo Contest [p]PHOTO CONTEST: Our Trucker Path Bobblehead “Johnny” will be making his way around America. Here's how you can join the fun by participated in the contest and win![/p] [h2]Here's Johnny![/h2] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/bobblehead-Johnny-1-e.png" alt=""] [h2]Photo Contest Rules – Be on the look out for Johnny[/h2] [p]If [b]Johnny[/b] is passed to you by a fellow driver please do the following:[/p] [ol][li][b]Take photos of Johnny[/b] the bobblehead as you travel along your route. Sunsets, flowing riverbank, views from your truck cab for Johnny to take in. You decide![/li] [li][b]Send your photos of Johnny[/b] to us through a direct [a href="https://business.facebook.com/TruckerPath/"]Facebook Message[/a] or email [a href="mailto:press@truckerpath.com"]press@truckerpath.com[/a].[/li] [li][b]Pass Johnny[/b] to a fellow driver you come across on the road or at a stop the following day.[/li] [/ol] [p]We'll post your photos on our Facebook Page – ones with the most likes WIN![/p] [h2]Where Will I Find Johnny?[/h2] [p][b]Johnny's route begins in America's Heartland near Cincinnati, Ohio[/b] – where he will be bobbing his head to the smooth moves of Big John – [a href="http://bigjohnsdancefitness.com/"]The Dancing Trucker[/a].[/p] [p]Let's show everyone how the trucking community is connected nationwide, hauling freight and delivering the things we all desire.[/p] [h2]Johnny at the Roebling's Bridge[/h2] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/Bobblehead-small-e.png" alt=""] [p]Big John will pass Johnny along to a fellow truck driver he meets on his delivery route in April. Could be at a truck stop waiting in line to buy a coffee or maybe at a diesel pump while filling up. We don't know where Johnny will be or when and that's the point – it's up to you, our community![/p] [h2]Oh, the Places He Will Go[/h2] [p]From horses galloping freely through the fields of Kentucky bluegrass to the lively streets of Austin and the [i]Texas State Capitol[/i]. "The Gateway Arch" in St. Louis, MO. leading west, to the majestic Pacific coast of California – Johnny's Tour Across America has endless destination possibilities. Where will you take him?[/p] [p]The dedicated network of drivers in the trucking community travels over 432 billion miles annually. See how they can lead our eager Johnny across this great nation. 100 days to see all that can be seen![/p] [h2]Sweet Peach, Johnny's in Georgia[/h2] [p]Traveling along with with the Road Queen, [a href="https://www.facebook.com/sherri.mckinney.16?pnref=story"]Sherri McKinney[/a], Johnny has made his way to Georgia now. Keep truckin' along![/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/Little-Johnny-in-Georgia.jpg" alt=""] [h2]Johnny Stopping By at a Truck Stop in Kansas[/h2] [p]There's no place like home! Well, Johnny clicked his heels three times and has since landed in Kansas for a quick bite to eat. Where to next?[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2017/05/johnny-eating-e.png" alt=""]

May 01, 2017