Feb 15, 2019 • Carriers

Trucking Industry Update February 15, 2019

Trucking Industry Update February 15, 2019

Trucking Industry Update February 15, 2019

By Jeremy Feucht

Did you Know?

The regulation of the transportation industry, including today’s semis, began in earnest this week in history. On February 10, 1966, Ralph Nader testified before Congress regarding a book he had published called “Unsafe at Any Speed.” His testimony initiated the move towards an emphasis on safety as opposed to power and speed.

Trucking tip of the Week

With all the winter weather still occurring across the US, it is important to make sure you are keeping your headlights clear of dirt. Road dirt and other debris mixed with wet conditions can make your headlights less effective. Remember to wipe them off during your pre- and post-trip inspections.

Trucker’s Fees

One week after news broke that the US House of Representatives is considering a move towards a weight mileage tax on truckers, the US Senate has announced a similar initiative. While discussions are ongoing, there is also talk about increased fuel taxes in the interim while the weight/mileage change in implemented. During the hearing that occurred on February 13, the number thrown around was an increase of nearly $.20 per gallon. If you would like to listen to the hearing, you can access it here (fast forward to the 2:12:00 mark).

Autonomous Technology

TuSimple, a company attempting to lead the way in autonomous trucking, has raised nearly $100 million dollars in a funding campaign. With its latest round of funding, TuSimple is now pushing a $1 billion dollar valuation. This ultimately means that TuSimple is making gains in their push towards a fully autonomous truck. However, this technology has yet to be fully approved for use in the US. While some states have allowed testing, many others have not. This will be an interesting topic to watch moving forward.

Declarations of Emergency

There are at least 32 states under declarations of emergency due to winter conditions in the US. Several are set to expire by the end of the week. Please check the FMCSA’s Declaration of Emergency page to ensure you are not caught in a bad situation. If you are operating under the HOS exemption granted by such declaration, make sure the declaration is still in effect, so you do not receive a citation for hours violations.

Tagstrucking Fees Truck driver tips Industry Update Declaration of Emergency Autonomous Truck IFTA Weight Mileage Did you Know Tip Technology

Trucker Spotlight - Tashauna Thomas <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_Tashauna-Thomas-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Tashauna Thomas</strong>, who's a 25-year old trucker from Brampton, Ontario, Canada. She has been driving for about 3 years, started driving locally and now doing OTR. Let's get to know "Tashauna" and her life over the road. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> I was offered the opportunity to get my CDL while I was working in the warehouse at Coca-Cola, so that was how and why I decided to be a trucker. <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> In the short amount of time that I have been a trucker, the only major changes I’ve seen would have to be the hours of service in regards to the split sleeper berth. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some things you dislike about being a truck driver?</strong></h3> Sitting for long periods of time, hitting animals, and being stuck in bad weather conditions. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What attributes must one have in order to be a successful truck driver?</strong></h3> Patience and great driving skills. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the most memorable experience you've had while over the road?</strong></h3> Seeing all the different types of landscapes across America and Canada. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model? </strong></h3> Peterbilt 579. <h2></h2> <h3><strong> Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> I wanted to be in a Missy Elliot music video like Alyson Stoner. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> Any truck stop that is clean and doesn’t have a bunch of dropped trailers in parking spots. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What was the worst breakdown or setback you've experienced while OTR?</strong></h3> The starter on my Volvo was corroded so that took a while to get fixed just because it’s a Volvo. <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> What I like about <a href="https://sixdays.page.link/tLUu">Trucker Path</a> is I can see which truck stop has parking available so I can plan according for my 10 hour break. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> I say go for it if you feel you want to try it out. Nothing wrong with seeing if trucking is for you. When you do become a trucker, don’t forget to do your pre-trip! <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/04/202102-BLOG-TP-TS_Tashauna-Thomas-5.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/UC9M6B5FXm_D9_peBNX2Lzqg/videos">Slimteetee</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vWfKm-TZ4hE" 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 15, 2021 • Carriers

Freight Factoring Fees [p]Some companies will charge freight factoring fees compounding the actual factoring cost for your trucking company to factor a load. [/p] [h2] Freight Factoring Fees [/h2] [p] Review the fine print of freight contracts and understand the factoring fees that sneaky freight factoring companies sometimes have hidden from the advertised factoring rate. [/p] [p]Freight factoring can be a great tool to streamline your cash flow and grow your business as it eliminates the wait to get paid for owner-operators. However, some factoring companies have contracts with complicated jargon and disclaimers hidden in the fine print. [/p] [h2] Hidden Costs and Factoring Fees [/h2] [p]Sometimes a factoring company will advertise a great rate, far lower than any competitor. It's a perfect scenario for you, right? Well, not exactly. [/p] [p]Those rates that seem too good to be true are typically just that. Although a low rate is optimal, the associated factoring fees that you will incur in addition to the rate can balloon the overall cost for you to factor. [/p] [video id="IBCMtru_QMQ"] [h2] ACH Transfer Fee [/h2] [p]ACH Transfer fees can be issued each time you factor and range from $10 to upwards of $25 depending on the type of transfer or deposit. This cost can surely add up over time and frankly, it's ridiculous for to you to pay a fee just to receive your money. [/p] [h2] Minimum Volume Fee [/h2] [p]Often times a factoring company will require you to commit to factoring a minimum volume of invoices. Failure to meet the agreed minimum amount can result in extra fees or a percentage surcharge. Take into account your typical invoice amounts and calculate if you will have an issue trying to meet the minimum requirements. Keep in mind not all factoring companies have this policy or fee. [/p] [h2] Client's Credit Check Fee [/h2] [p]Although your credit is not taken into account, your client's credit is. The creditworthiness of your client must meet a certain standard for certain factoring companies before they agree to factor your invoices. That's right, some companies will charge you a fee for that credit check. [/p] [h2] Length of Terms [/h2] [p]You might decide to factor for a variety of reasons. Unavoidable circumstances might arise making it difficult to cover your operational costs. Truck repairs are extremely costly and unpredictable at times, especially for owner-operators and having a reliable truck that is fully functional is essential to your business. If you run a small fleet, wages, insurance, and taxes further compound your expenses. [/p] [p]This brings the length of terms to factor into play. Most factoring companies offer three to six-month term agreements to factor with some even require one-year contracts. It's important that you review and consider your options when considering the length of terms.[/p] [p]Be sure to choose the best fit for you. If you're confident that you won't be factoring for an entire year or that you want to explore other options after a few months, you should consider factoring with a company that doesn't have a minimum length of terms agreement. [/p] [h2] Termination Fee [/h2] [p]Let's say you have been factoring with a company for six months now. You have received payment days after hauling a load and it's been beneficial in helping you generate cash quicker to cover your expenses. Now you have ample funds and decide that you don't need to factor for the next few months.[/p] [p]The factoring company won't let you out of the contract because you agreed to factor for a certain length of time. In order for you to stop factoring, you have to pay a fee up to $1,000. [/p] [p]That's ridiculous, right? [/p] [giphy] <iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/KE58LJF3k8jug" width="480" height="426" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/roger-KE58LJF3k8jug"> [/giphy] [h2] Choosing a Freight Factoring Company [/h2] [p]The list of factoring fees can be costly and limit your trucking company's ability to sustain a stable cash flow. [/p] [p]Before choosing to do business with a factoring company, you should take into account these potential hidden costs and fees in the fine print of a contract. Freight Factoring helps manage your trucking company's cash flow and takes the hassle away from client collections, allowing you to focus on growing your business and hauling more freight. [/p] [p]You shouldn't feel that you are being fleeced by an unusual amount of fees that you weren't aware of or deal with. <strong>Trucker Path InstaPay</strong> is freight factoring that pays you in a day with no hidden costs, fees, minimum commitments or contracts with pages and pages of fine print to sift through. [/p] [button text="LEARN ABOUT INSTAPAY" href="https://truckerpath.com/sign-up-instapay/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=factoringfeesAug29" width="250px"]

Aug 29, 2017 • Carriers

Think you know it all about winter driving? Let’s double check! [p]The weather is turning colder, and snow is falling. Most people have the luxury of curling up at home on their couch, sipping a hot cup of coffee from the comfort of their home. As a truck driver, you’re not most people. Your home rolls along the road and ensures that life continues as normal for everyone else. If you’re a seasoned driver, you’re probably already well-versed in driving in bad weather. However, here are a few winter weather-driving tips you may already know, but a little reminder never hurts. Be sure to share these tips, and others with your driving colleagues. <strong>[p]Prepare for getting stuck. </strong>Even the best of drivers can get stranded despite taking all possible precautions. Getting stuck on the side of the road somewhere can be even more dangerous in the wintertime because of poor visibility and freezing weather conditions. It’s important to dress in layers and have extra clothes, gloves, winter coat, rain gear and blankets stashed in your truck. All these items will help keep you warm and dry until help arrives. It’s also important to have bottled water and snacks that are high in protein to help keep you hydrated and nourished while you wait. <strong>[p]Know what to do if you get stranded.</strong> If your truck breaks down or you get stuck in a bad storm, the best thing to do is stay inside your vehicle. Walking along the highway to find help is dangerous no matter the weather or time of day, but when the weather and visibility are poor, it is far worse. Not only can you get easily confused with where you’re heading, but other drivers might not be able to see you walking on the side of the road. It’s better to radio or call for help, bundle up, and stay warm. You can run your engine a little bit every hour for extra warmth if needed. It’s important to stretch out the amount of fuel you have left and double check that your exhaust pipe is clear of snow and other blockages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. <strong>[p]Remember extra winter weather necessities. </strong>You might carry a tool box and jumper cables with you on the regular, but there are additional items you should have in your truck when you’re doing winter driving. Some of these items include a windshield scraper for iced-over windows, extra windshield washer fluid, a bag of sand or salt, and tire chains. <strong>[p]Watch your speed. </strong>The FMCSA recommends that drivers reduce their speed by 1/3 when the road is wet and by 1/2 or more on snow packed roads. Driving at a reduced speed gives you more time to maintain control over your truck when you hit a slick or icy patch of roadway. And do not forget to leave extra stopping distance! <strong>[p]Road spray can tell you a lot. </strong>Not only should you be watching other drivers for unexpected traffic situations, but the spray coming from other vehicles can also tell you a lot about the road conditions. If there’s spray coming from other vehicles, then you know that the roads are wet. If the temperatures are close to freezing and the spray from vehicles around you stop, this is your indication that black ice could be around. Another clue that there may be black ice is when ice builds up on your truck’s mirror arms or antennas. <strong>[p]Use your best judgement.</strong> Sometimes you can take all the precautions possible, but the road conditions just aren’t safe for you to be out there. Use your best judgement from the weather forecasts and what you observe around you. Stay in contact with your fleet manager to come up with a plan for when it’s time to get off the road and wait it out. The mark of a great driver is knowing when to shut down. [p]Feel free to share your favorite winter weather driving tips below!

Dec 20, 2018