Backlog of truck orders nears 10 months as shortage of semiconductors, plastics impact manufacturers
If there are statistics that best show the weirdness of the U.S. market for Class 8 trucks, it might be these: May sales were down
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
Money mechanics: Using a factor can help cash flow, allowing owner-operators to focus on freight
When it comes to operating your own trucking business, being a great driver isn’t enough. It takes more than driving skill to profitably manage a
‘Above normal’: Hurricane season not expected to be as bad as 2020, but could still impact trucking
June 1 marked the official beginning of hurricane season, and the U.S. is in for another above-normal season, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
April freight levels dropped slightly from a robust March but rates still excellent
Strong freight rates continued to drive trucking revenues upward in April, despite some loss of volume, according to reports received from several sources. The Cass
Many roads to a driving career are soon to merge
A common argument among commercial truck drivers pits drivers who were taught to drive by a relative or friend, or who learned by bouncing around
Fuel outlook: Availability and pricing should be stable through summer months
Trucks powered by electricity may be making the headlines, but trucks burning old-fashioned diesel fuel are still moving the freight. As summer approaches, diesel fuel
Dash cameras can provide inexpensive and effective protection to drivers
If you’re still driving without a dash camera, you’re missing out on some of the best protection you can get for your driving record. Dash
Lori and Mitch Broderson do trucking, and life, their way
Some truckers relish the variety of running irregular routes, going wherever the freight — or a dispatcher — takes them. Others, however, prefer life to
Lower availability, higher prices for new Class 8 trucks can be expected
U.S. sales of new Class 8 trucks declined in April, according to data received from ACT Research. Sales of 19,714 trucks were 12.4% lower than
As demand remains steady, rates rise but number of drivers falls
After a brief slowdown due to severe weather in February, freight levels roared back in March and are expected to continue climbing in the coming
‘Insurance act’ brings discussion of safety measures to lower rates
To no one’s surprise, Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-Ill.) in mid-April reintroduced his “Insurance Act” that would increase minimum liability insurance coverage mandates for motor
Carrier Profitability: Shared metrics, meetings, guidance key benefits of TPP
Many industries have advocacy groups, and there are many reasons for joining. The Truckload Carriers Association, however, has sweetened the deal with its TCA Profitability
Learning to follow: Autonomous technology may be ready before the rules are
The term “platooning” has mostly faded from trucking media, but it’s a huge part of the march to total autonomy at Pittsburgh-based Locomation. According to
Common sense, caution offer protection against cargo theft
There’s a lot to consider when planning a route, from transit times to fueling, weather, rest breaks, tolls, personal time for meals and showers, and
Road partners: Factors to consider before team driving
In the current economic climate, opportunities abound for drivers. Some of those opportunities involve teaming with another driver, an option that often pays better and
Attitude is key to minimizing distraction hazards when driving
Every driver understands the danger of being distracted while driving. At the same time, every driver gets distracted. The results can be deadly. The National
May Day, 1 year later: Interest in broker transparency waned; new protest planned
It’s been a year since truckers from two Facebook groups — “Mayday 2020” and “The Disrespected Trucker” — plus supporters gathered in Washington to protest
New Class 8 truck sales aren’t expected to continue at March pace
In March, U.S. sales of Class 8 trucks achieved a spectacular rebound from February results with sales of 22,512 units, according to data received from
Thin red line: Wisconsin trucker, firefighter pursues dual passions
It’s not uncommon for someone to have to choose between making a living and pursuing something they are passionate about. Dan Ravenhorst of Eau Claire,
Understanding Clearinghouse rules is essential for small trucking businesses
Starting up your own trucking business with your own authority is a big step that adds complexity to your business. Growing your business from a