Pre-trip inspections: save $, increase safety
One rule of thumb in trucking is that the earlier a problem is identified, the sooner it can be fixed and the less it will
Cliff Abbott
- About Cliff Abbott
- Cliff Abbott is an experienced commercial vehicle driver and owner-operator who still holds a CDL in his home state of Alabama. In nearly 40 years in trucking, he’s been an instructor and trainer and has managed safety and recruiting operations for several carriers. Having never lost his love of the road, Cliff has written a book and hundreds of songs and has been writing for The Trucker for more than a decade.
Posts by Cliff Abbott
CSA program offers sound premise but can paint inaccurate picture
The premise was simple and sound: Stop using random audits to determine carrier safety. Instead, collect consistent data from roadside inspections and accident reports; then
Business ¢ents: Knowing your operating cost per mile is vital to making a profit
It should be obvious that buying your own truck is equal to starting your own business. Sure, you’ll be able to make more decisions for
Despite economic headwinds, January saw increased sales of Class 8 trucks
U.S. sales of new Class 8 trucks got off to a great start in January, according to data received from Wards Intelligence. Manufacturers reported January
Safety Series: Preparation, good decisions are keys to surviving spring weather extremes
Depending on where you are in North America, spring may be just around the corner. While pleasant days, sunshine and blooming wildflowers can bring tranquility
Freight rates should rise in second half of year, but rising fuel costs could offset gains
Shipments declined by 3.2% in January from December levels, but no more than they usually do, according to the latest Cass Freight Index for Shipments,
Driving for a cause: Tanker driver Nan Harguth hauls inspiration along with food-grade products
The lady knows what she wants. That’s quickly evident to anyone who has a conversation with tanker driver Nan Harguth. “I’m not messing around. I
Who’s the boss? Be prepared for added responsibilities when you obtain your authority
Purchasing your own truck and becoming an owner-operator is a big step in a trucking career. Many drivers take that step and then choose to
Put your best foot forward: Know what’s on your record before applying
Chances are, just about everyone who works in the offices of a trucking company (or any office, for that matter) followed a similar process to
Engines: size matters
Truck buyers have a lot of factors to consider before making a final decision. In addition to features like the cab, bunk size and other
December sales of new trucks reach historic levels for a strong close to 2022
When it comes to sales of new Class 8 trucks on the U.S. market, 2022 ended up as the third-highest sales year of the past
‘Safety cushion’ can mean life or death
While driving, the space between your vehicle and the one in front of you is your only protection from a rear-end collision. Every professional driver
Trouble on the horizon: recession could make profits harder to come by in 2023, but still attainable
Closing out 2022, the December Cass Freight Index for Shipments, published monthly by Cass Information Systems, indicated a decline of 3.9% in total shipments over
Ending the game: Trafficking victims have hope thanks to Liz Williamson, TAT and thousands of truckers
Since its 2009 founding in Oklahoma, Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) has changed the hearts and minds of millions of people in and around the trucking
Those Who Deliver with Ralph Moyle, Inc.
Some carriers have a goal of growing bigger. At Mattawan, Michigan-based Ralph Moyle, Inc., the goal is a little different: to grow better. The company,
In the sauce? Economic soothsayers don’t agree on 2023 outlook for trucking industry
According to some experts, not only will a worldwide economic recession occur in the first half of 2023, but a new name has also been
Economic soothsayers don’t agree on 2023 outlook for trucking industry
According to some experts, not only will a worldwide economic recession occur in the first half of 2023, but a new name has also been
November sales of Class 8 trucks seem to belie predictions of recession
With all the predictions of a recession coming — or perhaps that it’s already here — it might be tempting to think carriers will slow
Courtesy, good customer service can make or break your reputation
If drivers often feel ignored while at facilities while they are loading or unloading freight, well … it’s because they are. Most workers at these
As old man winter lashes nation, preparation, skill needed for winter driving
MISSION, Kan. — Temperatures plunged far and fast Thursday as a winter storm began forming ahead of Christmas weekend, promising heavy snow, ice, flooding and