Truck Driving Job News Archives

So, you want to be a truck driver — Part 4

Kris Rutherford - May 9, 2023

In this series, we look at the steps and missteps involved in obtaining and maintaining your CDL. Well, look at that! You have your CDL! Congratulations! It’s been what seems like a long ride since you first had aspirations of being a truck driver; in some cases, it was a lifelong quest. Now that you’ve achieved it, what’s next? Depending on how you were trained, your path may already be paved — or you might have to do some job searching. If you attended a carrier truck driving school, you’ve probably signed on with that carrier to drive for a specific period of time. Be sure you fulfill your commitment. Otherwise, your carrier may come back on you expecting to be reimbursed for your training — that’s something that could cost you $15,000 or more. You’d be well-advised to complete your required period of employment. If you attended an independent truck driving school or were trained elsewhere, one of two things will probably — or has already — happened. First, your training establishment may have relationships with various carriers already. These carriers will recruit graduates of your training program, and that includes you. Be ready, because a trainer might be aligned with several carriers, all of which have different incentives to lure you to join them. Consider everything: payment per mile; promises of weekly mileage; bonuses for achieving stated goals; safety incentives; and fast-track training to make you eligible for higher paying long-hauls. On the other hand, if you don’t want to be a long-haul driver, some carriers can offer regional or local jobs, dedicated routes, port routes and even inner-city driving jobs. Make a list of what is important to you and your family, listen closely to the various offers and pick the job that’s right for you. However you obtain your first trucking job, your carrier will have additional training for you — an orientation, if you will. This will include familiarization with the carrier’s policies and procedures, direct training in the carrier’s equipment, along with a host of other carrier-specific information. Pay close attention. There is no guarantee that the equipment you trained in will be the same your employer uses. You need to be as familiar with your carrier’s equipment as you are with your own passenger vehicle. And don’t forget to follow those ELD procedures just as you are trained. Lack of an understanding of the ELD system can bring your career to a slow-down in a hurry. Remember, especially early in your career, you don’t want to develop a reputation as a “job hopper.” Of course, if you get into a job situation and discover it’s not right for you, by all means look for an alternative. No one wants you to be trapped in a career of misery. It can impact both you as a driver and your carrier’s reputation. But don’t be one of those drivers whose resume bounces from carrier-to-carrier and makes it look like you’re never happy anywhere. That’s a red flag for recruiters. All carriers want drivers who will sign on and remain with them for a long period. It’s less costly for the carrier in terms of recruiting, and good retention statistics make the carrier more attractive to other recruits. So, you are now a truck driver! You’ve entered a great profession, and many opportunities will open for you in the coming years. Go forward and make your life — and the world — everything you ever wanted it to be! To find truck driving schools in your area, click here. This is the final installment in The Trucker’s “So, you want to be a truck driver” series.

As efforts to ease the driver shortage continue, safety remains a top concern

Kris Rutherford - May 8, 2023

WASHINGTON — After falling early in 2023, recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor show trucking jobs increases over the past few months. While early statistics indicated that during March the truck driving industry added more than 6,000 new jobs, the labor department revised those numbers down to more than 3,000. April numbers show a gain of 3,000 jobs, to a total of 1,612,500 jobs in the trucking industry. Many of these positions were filled by trained CDL drivers, but the experience level of the new job force is questionable. As the push to hire new drivers continues, Congress is considering numerous pieces of legislation that will, either as a primary purpose or secondary effect, open the industry to a broader range of drivers. The tax incentives package recently proposed by Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Virginia) and co-sponsor Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wisconsin) is but one example. But with all the good that increasing job opportunities may offer the trucking industry and its stakeholders, safety concerns naturally rise. According to Barrett Young, head of fleet safety for Netradyne, stakeholders recognize the impact of softening the driver shortage will have on the U.S. economy. “The driver shortage has been an ongoing issue for some time,” said Barrett Young, head of fleet safety for Netradyne. “It’s exciting to see some action being taken to help curb the challenge many companies are feeling. As a nation, we will feel a positive impact on our supply chain if we can truly help more drivers enter the industry.” Stakeholders recognize the impact of alleviating the driver shortage will have on the nation’s economy, Young noted. “One important point, with more new drivers, it will require more training and safety measures to be in place,” he said, adding that, if done correctly, it will “not only fix the shortage but improve safety on our roads.” Young called for an element of legislation to include improvements to existing safety guidance so new drivers can utilize the benefits of video safety systems to continuously coach and improve driving skills. At the same time, he says, the old ways of improving fleet safety and driver performance are “perfectly suited to a world that no longer exists” — in other words, fleet owners must take advantage of modern technology to keep pace with other industries. He calls for measures including advanced artificial intelligence video telematics, citing as an example Netradyne’s Driver system. “(This) is the only system that can recognize positive driving so fleet managers and new drivers can see the entire picture and take the proper actions to make each driver a top performer,” Barrett said. Barrett emphasized that he is in favor of legislation that will increase the number of drivers on the road. “New incentives and (bringing) new drivers into the industry is great,” he said. “Let’s just make sure we are not sacrificing road safety in the process.”

Grant funds totaling $1.5M made available to support women, Latine, Black truck drivers

The Trucker News Staff - May 5, 2023

BALTIMORE — The Truist Foundation has announced a $1.5 million commitment to the Accion Opportunity Fund, a certified nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI) that offers capital, coaching and networks to small businesses owned by people of color, women and/or low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs. With the grant funds, Accion Opportunity Fund will pilot a Down Payment Assistance Fund to help more Black and Latie individuals, as well as women, become first-time truck owners and entrepreneurs in Maryland and Georgia. According to a news release, this initiative is part of an overall strategy to close gender and racial wealth gaps by investing in and supporting overlooked, underestimated entrepreneurs nationwide, a news release stated. Maryland Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Truist Financial Chairman and CEO Bill Rogers and Accion Opportunity Fund CEO Luz Urrutia gathered at Coppin State University — a historically Black university in Baltimore — to formally announce the grant and explore the impact of this work in Baltimore and beyond. “Truist Foundation recognizes the need for more tangible resources for women and people of color entrepreneurs,” said Lynette Bell, president of Truist Foundation. “Truck drivers quite literally drive our economy, and we are honored to partner with Accion Opportunity Fund to ensure that more first-time truck owners have a path towards affordable capital. This new Down Payment Assistance Program will help create quality job opportunities in our communities and propel our local economies forward.” Entrepreneurs of color and women have historically experienced larger barriers to obtaining finance to start or expand their businesses, the news release noted. Through the Down Payment Assistance Fund, more people will be able to participate in the trucking industry with support to fund their truck down payment costs, sustain their businesses and establish a path to economic mobility. “We are grateful for this new relationship with Truist Foundation, which will provide critical support for women and people of color in the trucking industry,” Urrutia said. “Access to capital and resources should not be a barrier for first-time truck owners looking to drive wealth creation for themselves and our broader economy. The Down Payment Assistance Program will provide new opportunities for economic mobility for these entrepreneurs who are too often shut out of the traditional financial system.” In the past year, Accion Opportunity Fund disbursed 2,422 loans totaling $113.2 million in capital to small businesses, primarily to entrepreneurs of color, women, and/or low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs. Since launching trucking lending in 2010, Accion Opportunity Fund has invested over $360 million in trucking through more than 6,300 loans, including loans to more than 5,700 first-time truck buyers. “As a transportation engineer, I know the strong opportunities for entrepreneurship and greater financial capital that exist in the transportation industry. We must ensure historically disadvantaged communities are included in these opportunities for growth,” Miller said. “Today, Accion Opportunity Fund and Truist Foundation are taking meaningful steps to level the playing field and the Moore-Miller administration is grateful for their partnership as we work to create pathways to work, wages and wealth for all Marylanders across all sectors.” More than half of Baltimore’s privately held businesses are owned by Black, Indigenous and people of color individuals. And while people of color are leading the nation’s small business boom, they are more likely to be denied credit or approved for smaller amounts than white business owners. Small business ownership, which includes self-employed truckers, is a proven path to building household wealth and financial security. On average, business-owning households earn more than twice the wealth of their wage-earning peers—and this impact is even more pronounced for business owners of color. Accion Opportunity Fund aims to help create equal opportunities and grow this revenue. “The collaboration between Accion Opportunity Fund and Truist Foundation aligns with our commitment to financially empowering our minority and women entrepreneurs in the trucking industry,” Scott said. “A few months ago, we announced a $10,000 hiring and retention bonus to eligible existing and new city employees who require a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) to work. Now, through the Accion Opportunity Fund, we are equitably providing access to affordable capital that allows truck drivers to establish wealth for themselves and scale their business. It is the gift that keeps on giving.”

Think ahead to find a safe place to stop for the night

Cliff Abbott - May 5, 2023

There’s been a lot in the news lately about truck parking, and several proposals have been put forth that would use government money to build more truck parking. Unfortunately, those efforts will take some time to come to fruition. It doesn’t take long for a new driver to learn that parking an 18-wheeler is a lot different than pulling the family car into a parking space at Walmart. Experienced truckers give themselves all the advantages they can by planning ahead for parking and following a few simple guidelines. No parking plan is foolproof, of course. Even the best of them can be thwarted when construction or other delays prevent you from reaching your planned parking spot or you arrive to find every slot taken. It’s all about increasing your chances of finding safe parking. With the use of routing apps and GPS, some drivers have gotten away from trip planning altogether. Sometimes, those are the unfortunate drivers you see in the news after they’re caught driving along a goat trail through the mountains, or perhaps stuck under a too-low bridge. The ones you don’t see in the news end up violating their hours of service in a frustrating search for an available parking space, or they park illegally on ramps or highway shoulders. Even in this digital age, trip planning is not a lost art; it is still a necessity. Every driver should have a good idea of the day’s route and stopping point. Some drivers still check GPS routing against an old-fashioned road atlas. Others rely on apps and GPS units, but make sure the software is designed for trucking. Popular apps like Trucker Path, Park My Rig and ParkMate are easy to find and download. A search of Apple or Google apps will return plenty of choices. Most of the truck stop chains have their own apps, too. You can use them to reserve parking spaces, check fuel prices and find out what restaurants are at each location. Paid parking is becoming more common and is one of the choices you’ll have. Some truck stops allow use of fuel card points to pay for parking or at least get a discount. Check your options carefully. Mapping programs that offer satellite views are useful for seeing what businesses are located around your planned exit. You may be able to walk to a favorite store or restaurant from your parking spot, or you may plan a stop at another location before you park for the night. While planning, keep in mind that the best places to eat and shower are often the most popular for parking, too. You may need to get there earlier in the day to find a parking spot. Be wary of parking in the end spot or in no-parking areas; tired truck drivers navigating through crowded truck stops can accidentally hit your truck or trailer. Because property values in urban areas can be high, truck stops are often built away from or on the outskirts of town. If your plan is to look for a parking place when you get close to your delivery point, keep in mind that the closer you get to the city, the less likely it is you’ll find a truck stop. Unless you’re sure of a parking place closer in, it’s better to start looking at least an hour away from your destination. While some facilities allow truck parking on their property or nearby, never assume that’s the case. Always call and ask if you’ll be able to park there and for how long. Some drivers prefer parking in less crowded surroundings and look for alternatives other than truck stops. One alternative is the parking lot at a large store. Be careful if this is your choice, even if the spot seems abandoned. Often, the store is located on a leased property not owned by the retailer. The real owner may have a no-truck parking policy, and they may — or may not — have posted signs. Additionally, some towns or counties have ordinances against truck parking. Drivers have been awakened by officers issuing citations. In addition, some drivers have been victimized by predatory towing services that may use a “boot” or chains and locks to make the truck undrivable, releasing it only after receiving payment of exorbitant fees. Be sure to get permission to park in the lot and make sure whoever you get it from actually speaks for the owner. Some drivers prefer parking on the shoulder of Interstate ramps. This can be a dangerous practice and can expose the truck and driver to crashes — and it’s often illegal, too. If this is your only choice, make sure there are no signs prohibiting parking, and choose a spot where traffic is moving more slowly. The beginning portion of an on ramp is usually safest because traffic is usually slower. Be aware that some places have “sitting duck” policies that prohibit parking on the shoulder of the road anywhere. A citation for exceeding your driving hours may be preferable to losing your job, so make good decisions. Don’t neglect security for yourself, your truck and your cargo when choosing a parking spot. Well-lit parking lots with others around offer less chance of being robbed or assaulted. Backing so the trailer doors are close to a building, wall or even another truck can discourage thieves from breaking into the trailer. Parking in dark, secluded areas may be quieter but it offers less protection. Make sure your doors are locked when you’re in the cab. Some drivers increase their security by using a strap to hold the doors together so that if a lock is defeated the doors still can’t be opened. When leaving the cab, always use the windows and mirrors to look all around the truck. When returning to the truck, get a look underneath and make sure no one’s hiding behind the cab. If you notice the door has been opened, a window broken or anything else suspicious, do not get in the cab. Call the police or truck stop security instead. There is no guarantee safe parking will be available every time you need it, but you’ll improve your odds by including parking in your trip plan.

Meant to be: Husband-and-wife team Bryan and Nikki Larrea share life as drivers, business owners

Dana Guthrie - May 4, 2023

Bryan and Nikki Larrea share two loves. They both love trucks — and, more importantly, they love each other. The Idaho natives, who own and operate Larrea Trucking Hay Company LLC, both grew up in the Meridian area of the state. Although the two crossed paths many times over the years during their youth, they didn’t actually meet until both were adults. “It’s kind of a funny story,” Nikki said. “My husband grew up in the trucking business with his dad. I would be walking to school and see the orange and white hay trucks. That was their colors. It amazed me to see a huge load of hay going down the road. I was always interested in trucks growing up.” As a locally and nationally ranked No. 1 BMX racer growing up, Nikki knew where her passions were. What she didn’t know was that those passions would eventually lead her to the love of her life: Bryan was a state champion motocross competitor. “I would go out to OMC, which is a racetrack in Boise, Idaho, and I would actually flag when I was 11, 12, 13 years old,” Nikki said. “It turns out I was actually flagging for him when he was racing a CR-500 dirt bike, which is a very powerful dirt bike. I knew of him and as time went on, my grandma and I went on a road trip when I was 14 years old. I was just ‘trucks, trucks, trucks!’ the whole time.” As the two returned home from their trip, Nikki caught sight of one of some orange and white hay trucks coming across an overpass. “My grandmother turned to me and said, ‘Honey, promise me one thing. Don’t ever get with a hay hauler like that, because they are dangerous,’” Nikki said with a laugh at the memory. Nikki never dreamed that, years later, the young man she flagged for — and later spotted on the overpass — would turn out to be the love of her life. When the two first met as adults, each was in a relationship with someone else. Nevertheless, Nikki and Bryan forged a solid friendship, bonded by their mutual interests. As fate would have it, they both found themselves single a few years later, and the friendship was rekindled. This time, the relationship blossomed into not only a loving marriage, but also a prosperous business partnership. Almost a year into dating, in December 2005, Bryan asked Nikki if she wanted to go on a road trip with him for his dad’s trucking company. “He took me out on the road, and we went to every state,” Nikki said. “This one time we were coming back through and we had a drop in Las Vegas, Nevada. He looked over at me and said, ‘You wanna get married?’ and I said yes. We stayed a couple of nights, walked out on the boulevard and got married — and we’ve been best friends ever since.” As the proud owners and operators of Larrea Trucking Hay Company for the past six years, Nikki and Bryan have a long history in the trucking industry they both know and love so much. “This is my 47th year in trucking,” Bryan said. “My dad owned a hay company. I worked for him for many years until he passed away. I have an old cabover that my dad bought me in 1982. I was blessed with that, and still own it. “Me and Nikki worked for another hay company for about eight years,” he continued. “We started our own company, and we own three trucks, five sets of doubles. I’ve always had a good work ethic and worked hard.” Bryan is proud of his bride’s accomplishments. “Nikki is very good at what she does,” he said. “She is very good with the books, and we have succeeded because of her.” According to Nikki, Bryan has an affinity for Peterbilt 379 extended hoods. When she was in her late 20s and Bryan in his early 40s, she says, she used to tell Bryan that if they worked hard, they would someday have one of their own. “I promised him that by the time he was 60 years old, I would have him a 379 Pete,” she said. “He laughed and said, ‘That long?’” Nikki also recalls mentioning to Bryan that, when she looked at the men driving those long-hood Petes, she noticed “they aren’t young.” It would take hard work to be able to buy Bryan his dream truck, but Nikki believed they could do it. “We actually beat our goal by two years,” she said. When the couple decided to launch their own business, Nikki was apprehensive at first. “I was scared,” Nikki said. “I didn’t know how to find loads or things like that.” Their first success came when contacting a local company that offered guaranteed loads in 2018. Then she discovered a source for online load boards, Truckstop.com — and she says things took off from there. The company now has dedicated contracts, and the business continues to prosper. They attribute their success to maintaining a great safety rating; in addition, they pour what profits they make back into the business so it can grow and improve. “Our favorite part of being in this business is being together,” Bryan said. “We are best friends, and we never argue. We are hooked at the hips. She is my best friend, and I love her to death.” Nikki added that the pair’s pure love of trucks also helps deepen their relationship, and that they have met many new friends along the way. Even when they’re traveling in separate trucks, they communicate constantly via CB radio. For many years, the Larreas shared the road with one other traveling companion. Their faithful canine trucker pal, Baby, traveled with them for 14 years. Nikki and Bryan said the dog never met a person she didn’t love. “We miss her dearly,” Nikki said. “We were heartbroken to have to put our baby girl down in 2020 after she got hip dysplasia. In the end she couldn’t walk, and I would have to carry her. “After months of trying to find her help, we realized that it was her time,” she shared. “As we put her sleep, I whispered in her ear that if there was any way for her to come back to us, to do it. I don’t care how, just come back to Mom and Dad.” The wish was granted when Nikki found a feral kitten near their house in 2021. In the 14 years they’ve lived in the house, she says, they had never spotted a cat, let alone a kitten, on the property. After many attempts to catch the kitten, a female, Nikki finally succeeded, but it still took time to win her over. “She now goes with us (on the road) every time,” Nikki said. Both Nikki and Bryan are confident that their discovery and adoption of the kitten, now called Angelene, is because their beloved Baby kept her promise.

So, you want to be a truck driver — Part 3

Kris Rutherford - May 2, 2023

In this series, we look at the steps and missteps involved in obtaining and maintaining your CDL. Well, you’ve jumped the first set of hurdles, and you have your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). At this point, you can practice driving — provided you have someone riding shotgun who already has their commercial driver’s license (CDL) in hand. Pay attention to what that person tells you; let them show you what they’ve learned about navigating the road. Soak in what they do well … but don’t ignore their mistakes. Everyone has made a few from time to time. Any trainer worth their salt will own up to the ones they’ve made. There’s plenty to be learned, both good and bad, from every person you have the opportunity to train with. You can learn all the tricks of the trade from any long-time CDL holder, but as of Feb. 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific training requirements. Anyone who wants to get a new Class A or B license, or upgrade a license from Class B to Class A, must successfully complete the FMCSA’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT). The same holds true if you’re applying for a hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsement for the first time. So, you ask, what is ELDT? Essentially, ELDT is part of the same process would-be commercial drivers went through to earn a CDL before the term was created and mandated. When the FMSCA unveiled the ELDT requirements, it estimated that 85% of entry-level drivers already had gone through ELDT-approved training. The primary difference in CDL training before and after Feb. 7, 2022, was the curriculum. Before that date, curriculum for various training programs might have varied to some extent. The new law mandates the same curriculum be used for every driver training program. So, most driver training programs that existed before ELDT became effective still exist today. In fact, the FMSCA even has a handy Training Provider Registry to help you find a trainer that’s just right for your situation. Now, when it comes to selecting a driver training program, options exist on almost every corner. Some carriers offer programs as part of their driver recruitment programs. Community colleges, independent school districts, private training companies, rural cooperatives and some state workforce programs also provide ELDT-approved training for commercial drivers. If you want to earn your CDL, check out the Training Provider Registry. Chances are, there’s a program near you. As you train, you’ll study a combination of book knowledge (“theory”). You’ll also have lots of opportunities for “in-the-cab” training. Once you meet the minimum requirements of both (check your state’s requirements), you’ll be ready for testing. Testing is divided into two parts, written and skills. Assuming you’ve been paying attention in class, practiced your driving skills on the road and passed the necessary background checks, you could be holding your CDL on your first try! If you fail the first (or even the second) time, however, don’t get discouraged. Maybe you need to study harder or practice certain skills a little more. Put your heart and soul into your chosen career, and you’ll make it through. Once you have that CDL in hand, you’ll be ready for the road. One thing is guaranteed: You will never stop learning. To find truck driving schools in your area, click here. Check back next week for the next installment in The Trucker’s “So, you want to be a truck driver” series.

FMCSA forms task force to combat predatory leasing

The Trucker News Staff - May 2, 2023

WASHINGTON — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has formed a nine member Truck Leasing Task Force (TLTF), chartered by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, to evaluate lease agreements in the trucking industry and their potential safety and financial impacts on owner-operators. According to a news release, TLTF will address areas that have long needed intense focus. It will be tasked with providing best practices to assist drivers in assessing the impacts of a leasing agreement prior to entering into such agreement and recommendations on changes to laws to promote fair leasing agreements. TLTF’s work will contribute to FMCSA’s efforts to ensure that drivers have access to fair leasing agreements. “At a time when our country needs truck drivers more than ever, we must do everything we can to support the men and women who work in this vital industry,” Buttigieg said. “The Truck Leasing Task Force is taking a hard look at leasing agreements as part of our effort to ensure every truck driver in this country has good working conditions and can make a good living.” The DOT notes that “Truck leasing is an important step that many owner-operators in the trucking industry take to get started in the business. Leases that contain terms that are inequitable to drivers may discourage safe drivers from continuing to work in the industry.” TLTF members include representatives from labor organizations, motor carriers, consumer protection groups, owner-operators and other businesses, as well as attorneys and educators. The nine members who will serve on FMCSA’s Truck Leasing Task Force are: Tamara Brock, Brock Logistics, LLC and Lewis & Lewis Logistics, LLC (Independent Owner-Operator). Paul Cullen, The Cullen Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney). Troy Hawkins, TTOH Consulting & Logistics, LLC (Independent Owner-Operator). Jim Jefferson, Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association (Consumer Protection). Joshua Krause, OTR Leasing, LLC (Business). Kaitlyn Long, International Brotherhood of Teamsters (Labor Organization). Steve Rush, Carbon Express Inc. (Carrier). Lesley Tse, Animal Defense Partnership, Inc. (Attorney). Steve Viscelli, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania (Economic Sociologist). “The Truck Leasing Task Force addresses one of trucking’s great challenges. Leasing can have a major impact on people choosing trucking as their career, and protecting drivers is of the utmost importance,” said FMCSA Administrator Robin Hutcheson. “FMCSA is committed to addressing issues that may impact the recruitment and retention of drivers in the trucking industry.”

Safety Series: Preparation and skill are keys to avoiding warm-weather hazards

Cliff Abbott - May 2, 2023

By this time of year, warm — even hot — weather has already arrived in many parts of the country. Summer weather presents its own set of challenges. Some preparation to both truck and driver can mean the difference between running cool down the highway and sweating on the side of the road. Engine fluids are always a necessity but can be especially critical in summer. Coolant, windshield washer fluid and engine oil should be fresh and full. A good-quality windshield washer is necessary. Some drivers mix bottled washer solvent with an ammonia-based window cleaner for extra cleaning power. The hot summer sun can cause tar and oils in the road surface to rise to the top, where passing tires churn it into small droplets that can settle on windows and mirrors. A quality solvent keeps the view ahead clear. Under the hood, belts and hoses are stressed to their limits in summer. Your vehicle inspection should include checking them frequently. Small “check cracks” are normal for serpentine or fan belts, but if chunks are missing or cuts and tears weaken the belt, get it replaced. Hoses can crack, become loose or form bubbles in their sidewalls; they should be replaced when signs of damage appear. Radiators and air-conditioner condensers can become clogged with dirt and road debris. Check them often and, if necessary, clean them with a stream of water or compressed air. Tires also suffer in the heat. In addition to absorbing heat from the atmosphere, from the pavement and from direct sunlight, they also generate heat via friction with the road surface. The sidewalls flex as the tires rotate, generating even more heat. When tires are underinflated, heat buildup occurs quickly and can cause a blowout. When one of a pair of tires is underinflated, the other tire absorbs extra weight, creating more heat. Make sure tires are properly inflated, and check them often. Conduct a thorough inspection at least once a day and a walk-around visual check each time you stop. It doesn’t need to take long. During a quick stop for a restroom break you can check the tires on one side on your way in and take a look at the other on the way back. Any missing tread, bulges or crack in sidewalls, or sounds of leaking air are warnings that failure could occur soon. Deal with these issues as soon as you can. Summer driving can be hazardous to drivers as well as to their equipment. Bright sunshine may be nice to look at, but it can wreak havoc on the eyes and cause fatigue. Every driver needs a quality pair of sunglasses. Visors and window tinting can help when used properly. Glare can be minimized by keeping windows and mirrors clean. Dehydration can occur quickly if drivers don’t consume enough water. Air conditioning removes moisture from the air, and since you’re breathing the air in the cab, it pulls the moisture from you, too. Replace fluids by keeping a bottle of water nearby and sipping often. Sugary sodas and energy drinks can speed up dehydration. Try to drink more water, or at least non-carbonated beverages. Carry extra water in the truck in case of breakdown or a long wait at a shipper or receiver. Drivers must also remain mentally alert. Be prepared for summer driving hazards that can pop up without warning. Blowing dust, dirt or sand can impair visibility and cause loss of traction if enough of it settles on the road. Summer wildfires are a problem in some areas, and can create large smoke clouds. Extreme heat can cause pavement to expand and buckle, creating hazardous conditions for everyone. Keep an eye out for any pavement that looks unusual, and slow your speed before you reach it. Summer rainstorms can cause oils that are “cooked out” of the pavement to float on top of a layer of rainwater, causing a sudden and treacherous loss of traction. Be prepared; slow down until you’re sure you have enough traction for the speed you’re traveling. Usually the road film is washed away quickly and normal traction resumes, but it pays to be ready. Of course, with kids out of school and more people out on the highways for vacation and trips, traffic can be brutal. Watch out for the extra traffic — and keep your cool when others are losing theirs. Drivers of large RVs and rental trucks face the same hazards as you do, but they may not have the knowledge and experience to react properly to unsafe conditions. Give them plenty of room, and keep an eye on them until you’re clear. Summer brings out motorcycles, bicycles, four-wheelers and other vehicles. Motorcycles can slip into blind spots more easily than cars and trucks. Watch for them, and give them plenty of room. Motorists sometimes have to share the road with bicyclists, making for a dangerous situation. Give them room, and be patient until an opportunity to safely pass appears. Others are out on four-wheelers, skateboards and any number of other devices. Children can appear in the street before you know it. Stay alert. Watch out, too, for families or cars full of teenagers headed for the mountains or the beach. Some may have their minds on the fun times ahead instead of their driving. Keep an eye out for other motorists who may be celebrating the summer sun with alcohol or other substances. And watch for the usual distractions such as smartphones or other devices, books or anything else that can take the driver’s attention from the road. Ahh, summer. The days are longer, the scenery greener and the skies brighter. Preparing your truck and yourself will help you and others enjoy it before the winter returns.

USDOT approves use of oral fluid in drug testing

The Trucker News Staff - May 1, 2023

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued its final rule amending regulations to allow oral fluid testing in its industry drug testing program. The rule is set to publish on the Federal Register on Tuesday, May 2, and includes additional methodology for drug testing that “will give employers a choice that will help combat employee cheating on urine drug tests and provide a less intrusive means of achieving the safety goals of the program,” according to the DOT. In order for an employer to implement oral fluid testing under the DOT regulation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will need to certify at least two laboratories for oral fluid testing, which has not yet been done. The final rule includes other provisions to update the DOT’s regulation “and to harmonize, as needed, with the Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs using Oral Fluid established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.” according to the Federal Register filing. DOT officials said that oral fluid testing may offer a less time-consuming alternate to existing procedures when an employee cannot produce a sufficient urine specimen – for example, in a “shy bladder” situation or when specimens show evidence of tampering. Currently, employers must give individuals up to three hours to try producing a urine specimen again. If an individual still cannot produce a urine sample, the employer must refer the individual to a physician for further evaluation. The rule would allow employers to switch immediately to an oral fluid collection after the first failed attempt. Employers could similarly switch from oral fluid to urine collection if, for example, an employee has a “dry mouth” situation. “Allowing employers to use oral fluid testing may improve the effectiveness of drug testing,” according to the Federal Register filing. “Oral fluid testing can detect the recent use of some drugs, including marijuana and cocaine, while urine drug testing has a longer window of detection. More effective drug testing could deter employee illicit drug use and reduce safety risks from drug use.” DOT says that oral fluid testing can reduce anxiety, discomfort and other burdens for individuals undergoing testing because it is less intrusive and time-consuming than urine testing. For example, while most DOT-regulated urine tests are unobserved, a small number require direct observation. In observed tests, an observer of the same gender as the employee watches the employee urinate into the collection container. “Allowing the alternative of oral fluid testing would reduce discomfort and other issues for individuals, including potential civil rights issues for transgender or non-binary individuals,” the Federal Register filing states. “Reducing the burdens associated with testing may also reduce barriers to transportation employment for individuals deterred by current testing requirements.”

Drivers should pack these supplements to stay healthy for the long haul

Hope Zvara - May 1, 2023

One main truck driver health concern is the ability to find healthy food with balanced nutrients. Most restaurants and food stops offer food that’s tempting to the palate but is actually very harmful to the body. Regularly consuming an unhealthy diet can lead to serious health issues and lifelong problems. In this column, you’ll read about the importance of carrying supplements for travel and discover some vital supplements you can take with you! First of all, supplements can help you “create” balanced meals. Finding healthy trucker food can be next to impossible when you’re driving. The food offered in restaurants is rarely a balanced meal, which is something you need to stay healthy. If you feel like your regular DIET provides plenty of proteins and carbohydrates but not enough vitamins and minerals, supplements can help you out. In addition, supplements can improve bodily functions, making life on the road a little easier. Vitamins and minerals that come as supplements are majorly responsible for helping our bodies maintain themselves and encourage growth. Generating new red blood cells, improving skin and eye health, improving attention span and avoiding truck driver health issues are all benefits of vitamins and minerals. This begs the question: Which supplements should I travel with? Many supplements are readily available in stores and help your body perform primary functions efficiently. You can carry these with you in your travels: Vitamin D This vitamin is essential to pack when traveling because it promotes the health of your bones, blood and immune system. Your body can absorb calcium to create strong bones, thanks to Vitamin D. Additionally, it supports blood phosphorus levels maintenance and aids in disease-resistance for your immune system. Vitamin C Your immune system benefits from Vitamin C because it gives your white blood cells the boost they need to combat infection. It’s crucial to keep your blood pressure under control because the stress of traveling may cause it to rise. Trace Minerals Your body can’t absorb vitamins without minerals; countless bodily functions rely on minerals to work properly. Well, say goodbye to truck driver health concerns! Trace minerals are responsible for the building blocks of enzymes, and neurological functions, supporting the blood and certain hormones in the body. Magnesium Magnesium is a supplement that will help when your muscles stiffen after a long drive. Magnesium alleviates muscle tension and reduces soreness, if you find it painful to move due to the stiffness of joints and muscles. And bonus, if you struggle to sleep, magnesium may help do the trick! Whole Foods Powder If you don’t like traveling with a lot of supplements, whole foods powder offers relief. Made from vegetables, prebiotics, herbs and grains, this powder provides a balanced meal in a spoonful. It removes the hassle of stopping, eating and searching for the perfect balanced diet. We want you to be healthy! When you’re wondering how to keep up with a healthy diet to reduce your health concerns as a truck driver, using the right supplements can help. Remember to do your research when buying supplements — quality over quantity is a good rule of thumb. Finally, supplements can help fight against any truck driver’s health issues by offering all the essential nutrients your body needs when your diet is lacking. Hope Zvara is the CEO of Mother Trucker Yoga, a company devoted to improving truck drivers’ fitness and wellness standards. She has been featured in Forbes and Yahoo News, and is a regular guest on SiriusXM Radio. Her practical strategies show drivers how they can go from unhealthy and out of options to feeling good again. Find out more at www.mothertruckeryoga.com.

Dehydration can ‘drain’ your body’s personal battery

Bob Perry - May 1, 2023

Next time you’re feeling run down, chances are you’re dehydrated. Instead of coffee or soda, reach for a bottle of pure water. Coffee dehydrates you, and soda is full of unhealthy sugars, chemicals and empty calories. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry on normal functions. Even mild dehydration — as little as a 1% to 2% loss of your body weight — can sap your energy and make you tired. Dehydration poses a particular health risk for everyone, so it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms. Watch for: Excessive thirst; Fatigue; Headache; Dry mouth; Little or no urination; Muscle weakness; and Lightheadedness. Thirst alone isn’t always an adequate gauge of your body’s need for fluid replenishment. The older you are, the less you’re able to sense that you’re thirsty. In addition, during vigorous exercise, an important amount of your fluid reserves may be lost before you feel thirsty. With warm weather coming, this is especially important for you flat-bedders, as you secure your loads in the summer heat. Make sure you’re sufficiently hydrated before, during and after exercise or heavy workload. Think in terms of your truck’s battery: You place intense effort into maximizing your truck’s performance. As our friends at Fahrenheit Batteries recognize, today’s trucks are technological marvels — and they are also significantly more demanding on the vehicle batteries. Making sure trucks have the right battery for the right applications and that these batteries are properly taken care of helps fleets run longer, operations run smoother and keeps customers happier. Sound familiar? In the same way, dehydration places extra stress on our bodies’ personal batteries. Help avoid the need for emergency repairs, and stay hydrated! Here are a few tips to help you stay safely hydrated. Make a conscious effort to keep yourself hydrated, and make water your beverage of choice. Try adding flavored green tea bags to your bottle of water. Eat water-rich foods, such as fruit, but be careful of the sugar content. Use water as a true measuring stick for hunger. The next time you’re driving down the road and think you are hungry, drink some water. Wait a few minutes and see if the hunger pains are still there. Known as The Trucker Trainer, Bob Perry has played a critical role in the paradigm shift of regulatory agencies, private and public sector entities, and consumers to understand the driver health challenge. Perry can be reached at [email protected].

With a variety of trailer types, there are many driving jobs to explore

Cliff Abbott - May 1, 2023

If you own a truck — or plan to buy one — the decision of what to do with it should be near the top of your list. Details such as what kind of freight you’ll haul, in which areas you want to run and whether you’ll lease your truck to a carrier or go out on your own can make a huge difference in the success of your trucking business. While it’s true that many drivers stay with the trailer type they originally trained with, others want to experience some of the variety that trucking offers. Some are curious about what it would be like to pull a trailer that’s different from the one currently behind their cab. Trucking offers a huge variety of options. A change in trailer types often means the non-driving tasks are different, the hours and runs are different, and even driver pay and the frequency of home time can be different. And for the owner-operator, the compensation can be very different. Dry van (or “box”) trailers are the most common and offer many opportunities for a truck owner. Owners can find a variety of work, from local and regional routes to coast-to-coast runs. Local work usually offers daily time at home, but the pay isn’t usually as good. Some drivers prefer shorter runs because they stay within a preferred geographic area, often offering more time at home than long runs. Others like the longer runs because they can rack up the miles and spend less time loading and unloading. Long runs often result in less home time, but owners who can lock down regular runs and return hauls can often have regular, predictable home time. Dry van trucking often includes dock time and even some driver labor, including building or breaking pallets, shrink wrapping, counting and even hand loading or unloading. It all depends on the customer, and drivers quickly form opinions, good or bad, about each location. Refrigerated trailers are, for the most part, dry van trailers with temperature-control equipment attached. Most have aluminum floors rather than wood; these aluminum floors have tracks that allow water from condensation to run off without soaking cargo. Since refrigerated trailers can also haul dry van freight, some drivers prefer them. Hauling refrigerated freight requires diligence on the driver’s part to make sure the temperature remains in the range specified by the customer. Some loads require that the trailer be pre-chilled, and some customers demand the trailer be washed out before loading. Wait time at some warehouse locations can be long, and drivers are often asked to handle at least some of the freight. Some drivers enjoy the physical activity and the extra pay that sometimes comes with it, while others hate waiting and performing labor they think should be the responsibility of the facility. Hauling flatbed offers a change some drivers like. Since flatbed freight is usually loaded by forklift or crane, driver labor usually isn’t involved in the process. Some drivers prefer hauling equipment or machinery and some like pulling step decks, drop decks or even RGN (reticulated gooseneck), or “lowboy,” trailers. Securing and tarping the load involves labor, and drivers often prefer freight that doesn’t need tarping. Trailers with side kits and tarp roofs (Conestoga wagons) and retractable tarps can make life easier — but they can also create work. While flatbed drivers avoid most dock delays, they sometimes need to wait for a forklift or crane operator. Flatbed generally pays better than dry van but can be more susceptible to seasonal conditions and building slumps. There’s an investment in the equipment needed to secure and protect freight, too. Depending on the freight hauled, chains, straps, binders, winches, tarps and more may be needed. Some truck owners turn to tank trailers for a different sort of job. Tankers come in both wet (liquid) and dry (dry bulk) configurations. Loading and unloading is often a matter of opening a hatch or hooking up a hose and pulling a lever. Some loads require a pump to unload, and some products are heated. Many tanker loads require some special handling for hazardous materials or food-grade products. Pneumatic tankers that haul dry bulk products can be noisy and dusty to unload. Instead of unloading at a dock, tanker drivers often must find connections to hook up the hoses. While dry van, refrigerated and flatbed trailers can haul a variety of freight, tankers are often restricted to certain types of cargo. A trailer used for gasoline, for example, can’t pick up a load of orange juice next. Food-grade tankers are generally prohibited from hauling non-food products and, in some cases, are dedicated to a specific product for the life of the trailer. Chemical trailers require special care to avoid loading a substance that could have a violent reaction to residue left in the trailer from the previous load. Some tankers are thoroughly washed out after every load, some when the product is changed and some are only washed out when maintenance is needed. Drivers need to know where to get trailers washed, who pays for the wash and if mileage to and from wash locations is covered. Driving with a tank trailer can be challenging, too. They tend to have a high center of gravity and can be dangerous in turns and curves. Liquids can slosh from side to side or surge from front to back. The compensation can be excellent, however, and some drivers quickly take to the type of work. Other types of trucking involve hauling cars, boats or livestock; each has its own pros and cons. There are many specialty trailers in trucking, and it seems someone is always adapting a trailer to do something new. If you’re looking for the right fit for you and your truck, talk to drivers of different trailer types, and do some research. You just might find the trucking job you’ve been dreaming about.

What you should know about towing and clean-up coverage

OOIDA - May 1, 2023

By Deborah Graves, OOIDA Truck Insurance Department Question: What is towing and clean-up coverage? Do I have it, and if so, do I have enough? Answer: Towing and clean-up coverage is what you will need in the case of an accident, to clean-up debris from your equipment and cargo, as well as towing your equipment and/or off-loading your cargo. You should also have coverage for storage costs after the wreck. Now the big question is: Do you have enough coverage? Let’s talk a bit more about that. Being out on the road, I’m sure you have heard some of the horror stories about the cost to clean up a crash scene. On average we see towing bills that run around $30,000. Some can be lower — but some can be much higher, depending on many factors. We have seen bills as high as $100,000 and more. You need to make sure you protect yourself as much as you can for those instances. Most physical damage insurance policies will include some coverage for towing, clean-up and storage; however, it is not always enough. Did you know that if you chose not to carry physical damage on your equipment you won’t have any coverage to clean up, tow or store the units? Next, we must address the freight you are hauling. Whether you carry your own cargo coverage or you are leased and your motor carrier has this coverage, a cargo policy will also have some towing, clean-up and storage coverage included. OOIDA has the built-in coverage, and we offer a wide range of supplemental coverage you can add on for a very reasonable price. We are here to help you succeed. So don’t find yourself upside down on a loan. Call one of OOIDA’s expert insurance agents today to discuss your coverage. You can reach an OOIDA truck insurance agent Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST, at 800-715- 9369. Do you have an insurance topic you would like to know more about? If so, email us at [email protected]. We will be covering a new topic each month and will do our best to address everyone’s questions.

Career awareness an important first step for aspiring drivers

Kris Rutherford - April 28, 2023

In 2017, Jim Babson recognized a trend in career development. “I started talking to people about how they got their jobs,” he said. “And I saw so many that were working in areas they didn’t necessarily train for.” He recognized people with college degrees who may have worked in the area they graduated for a few months or years; then they completely changed direction. And he saw what was lacking. “Career awareness,” Babson said. “People are entering college majors or training programs without any real sense of what the career is about.” This problem led Babson to create his own business — developing short videos about different careers. The business hit the ground as USCareersOnline.com (USCO). “We have videos on various careers that provide a short, five to six-minute introduction to fields people may not have considered exploring before,” Babson said. One of the career fields USCO has recently explored is truck driving. USCO joined forces with Schneider Trucking and Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute (CCCTI) in North Carolina to produce a career awareness video about just one of many careers of choice in the trucking industry — driving. The video production had four goals. “First, we wanted to simply provide information to those exploring careers,” Babson said. “It was also intended to build the workforce, serve as a recruiting tool for Schneider, and help CCCTI attract new students.” CCCTI has been operating a truck driving program since 1990. The first of its type in North Carolina, the school has expanded its offerings to eight other campuses in the state’s community college system. Scott Hartley is the director of truck driver training at CCCTI. “We’ve been connected with Schneider Trucking for over 20 years,” Hartley said. “We find that whichever campus we work with, Schneider has jobs available and is recruiting.” What’s more, Hartley added, CCCTI can train drivers for all types of trucks. “Interstate driving, dedicated runs, driving out of ports, owner-operators — we have placed students in careers in many areas. We have even had success placing students under 21 with intrastate companies or driving cement and dump trucks.” One thing that surprises Hartley is the talent he sees in the 18- to 20-year-old students. “When I was on the road, I was a staunch advocate for keeping young, inexperienced drivers in a place where they could learn the trade,” he said. Since becoming an instructor, he’s seen that the rule may be a bit restrictive. Hartley says he has had some teenage students excel in the training program while students in their 50s struggle. He believes there needs to be an increased focus on younger drivers. “More simulators would help with training,” he said. As far as the video project with USCO is concerned, Hartley says it is a great tool for CCCTI and the other campuses where the truck driving program operates. “It is a great marketing tool,” Hartley said. CCCTI has the video posted on its website and also advertises its availability on YouTube and USCO. And the video doesn’t just cater to male drivers. At least one female student tells her story and how she became interested in the trucking business. “Career awareness is all about telling stories,” Jim Babson said. Each of Babson’s company’s videos includes several professionals or students who tell why they got into or are training for a career field. For Schneider, the involvement in the video was an extension of their regular recruitment. One of Schneider’s ambassadors, Lemine Dia, appears in the production and offers his thoughts about the benefits of choosing a career as a truck driver. “You are your own boss,” Dia said. “You’re the captain of your ship. Make this the best decision of your life. Becoming a truck driver was the best thing I could have ever done in my life.”

Pay, equipment quality remain top driver concerns, according to new recruiting, retention report

The Trucker News Staff - April 28, 2023

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — A new report by two driver recruitment and retention agencies notes that compensation continues to be a driving force in driver turnover across the nation, while equipment quality ranks as a top concern as well. Conversion Interactive Agency and People. Data. Analytics. (PDA) have released their Q1 2023 Driver Recruiting & Retention Data Download Report, for which they collected and analyzed data throughout the quarter to create an extensive overview of trends and data to help carriers recruit and retain drivers. “Competition for drivers remained high in Q1 of 2023 even as the jobs market cooled slightly with the number of open driver positions declining in response to a slowing freight market,” said Kelley Walkup, CEO and president of Conversion Interactive Agency. “Fleets who are investing in comprehensive marketing throughout the entire driver lead funnel are reaping the rewards of a healthy driver pipeline.” Walkup added that when it comes to marketing strategies, “vertical video formats on social media, search engine marketing, and telling employer brand stories in compelling ways are what is moving the needle today.” “These strategies produce results for not only hiring quality drivers, but other (non-driver) positions as well,” Walkup continued. “We worked with a number of carriers to grow diesel tech leads in Q1, and the results led to more hires and a clear value proposition for those positions.” In Q1 2023, according to the Data Download Report, drivers who are searching for jobs online are looking at more than open driver positions, and local opportunities are providing significant competition for fleets hiring over-the-road, regional and dedicated drivers in many markets across the country. When it comes to driver issues and concerns, equipment issues barely regained the top spot as the top driver concern in Q1, compensation issues remained at the same levels PDA saw in Q4 of 2022 and continue to be a driving force in driver turnover during the first three months of 2023. Notably, as PDA looked at the data for drivers who voluntarily left their position in Q1, compensation issues were the top issue by a substantial margin. “The softening freight market will continue to be a challenge in combating driver turnover for Q2. Open and proactive communication with your drivers, will continue to be essential and reducing turnover to keep drivers in trucks will continue to be a challenge,” said Scott Dismuke, vice president of operations at PDA. “During a freight slowdown, equipment issues can keep drivers from logging valuable miles, therefore affecting driver pay. Getting drivers in and out of the shop as quickly as possible is key to reducing driver frustration. If a quick turnaround in the shop is not possible, offering drivers a loaner is a better option than breakdown pay.” The Q1 2023 data shows that miles-related compensation issues remain the top area of dissatisfaction for drivers. More than half of the drivers with compensation issues in Q1 cited miles as the top reason for their frustration. In a year over year comparison, miles-related compensation issues are up over 13% from Q1 of 2022. Dismuke emphasized the reality that many of the drivers in the industry today have not experienced an economic slowdown. “Remember, drivers who have entered the industry in the last few years have not experienced a freight slowdown,” Dismuke said. “This is new and scary territory for them. Communication and patience with these drivers will be important in walking them through their first freight slow down.” While equipment issues are the top overall frustration for drivers, compensation is by far the top issue for drivers who voluntarily left their position in Q1. As the economy has changed, the reasons for drivers leaving have also changed. “Driver turnover is on the rise because drivers are searching for miles,” Dismuke said. “During COVID, driver turnover was caused by industry-wide pay raises which resulted in drivers searching for the top pay rate. Turnover occurs in all economies, but the reasons change.” To access the full report, click here.

So, you want to be a truck driver — Part 2

Kris Rutherford - April 25, 2023

In this series, we look at the steps and missteps involved in obtaining and maintaining your CDL. Well, now that you’ve learned a little bit about the trucking industry, you say you’re even happier with your idea to pursue driving as a career. That’s great! Now, it’s time to get down to the nuts and bolts of preparing for your CDL test and getting behind the wheel. Be patient, though, because this isn’t going to happen overnight. Before taking another step, find a copy of your state’s CDL manual. You should be able to pick one up at an area testing site — or even better, download one from the internet. Be aware that each state has its own nuances in the process of obtaining a CDL, so don’t think one size fits all in this step. Next, you’ll need to decide what type of truck you want to drive and what you expect to haul. To drive a tractor-trailer, you’re going to need a Class A CDL; that’s the “top of the food chain” in trucking. Depending on what you plan to haul, you may need some endorsements. These “add-ons” to your CDL will allow you to haul cargo such as hazardous materials and other specialized commodities. Of course, you could start out as a general driver and not test for any endorsements. However, if you want to expand your employability, endorsements are always a feather in your cap. The next step is perhaps the most important to date: You need to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). At its basic level, a CLP is much like the driver’s permit you got in high school. It allows you to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), provided a CDL holder is also in the vehicle. Driving as a profession is a little more complicated that high school though, so before you can obtain your CLP you have a few hurdles to jump. First, you have to pass all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you have chosen. In addition to the general CLP test, you’ll haves separate tests for any type of endorsements you’d like to eventually have on your CDL. Also, be aware that your previous driving record will be checked in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Don’t expect that speeding ticket a couple years back to be ignored. When your record is checked, officials will be looking back as many as 10 years. Hopefully you have at least a somewhat clean record with no major violations. Your state will also want to see proof that you’re medically fit to drive a CMV. You might as well get used to this. Throughout your career, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is going to require routine physicals as a condition of maintaining your CDL. Various medical conditions can put restrictions on your driving. Right now, sleep apnea is a major concern with the DOT. Having sleep apnea doesn’t necessarily disqualify you as a driver, but it does give the DOT reason to monitor your health more closely. Finally, of course, you can expect various fees and charges to go along with each of these steps. You’ll have to check with your state to see what all this entails. Now, you’ve researched, studied and earned your CLP? That’s fantastic! Next time, we’ll discuss driver training. To find truck driving schools in your area, click here. Check back next week for the next installment in The Trucker’s “So, you want to be a truck driver” series. To read Part 1 of the series, click here.

FMCSA requests comments on plan to expand types of crashes analyzed in SMS database

The Trucker News Staff - April 18, 2023

WASHINGTON — On April 13, 2023, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) posted a notice in the Federal Register requesting comments on the agency’s plans to add four new crash types to the Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP). Since 2020, the FMCSA has collected data for its Safety Management System (SMS) for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Since its inception, the program has reviewed 16 crash types, modifying data within the SMS to determine which crashes were preventable and which were not. The incorporation of the crash types into the previous SMS system has made FMCSA better able to identify unsafe carrier and driver behaviors and prioritize them for intervention. Now, based on FMCSA’s experiences with the enhanced crash review process, the agency proposes to modify existing crash types to broaden eligibility, including removing the differentiation between “direct” and “indirect” strikes and making other changes to improve use of data to identify methods to reduce crashes with non-motorists. Public comments will be accepted on the proposed change until June 12, 2023. Between May 1, 2020, and Dec. 31, 2022, a total of 133 accident reports were submitted for review; 96% of those incidents were determined to have been non-preventable. However, of the reports submitted, only 72.5% were eligible for review under the 16 crash types. Of those, 42.2% were determined to be non-preventable crashes in which a CMV was struck in the rear. Based on the data analyzed to date, the FMCSA proposes changes to the 16 crash types, and to add four vehicle crash types to those already studied: CMV was struck on the side by a motorist operating in the same direction. CMV was struck because another motorist was entering the roadway from a private driveway or parking lot. CMV was struck because another motorist lost control of their vehicle. Any other type of crash involving a CMW where a video demonstrates the sequence of events of the crash. For drivers, the primary issue involving the SMS system is the data’s impact on Pre-Employment Screening (PSP). For the revised list of crash types, the FMCSA will continue to include the crashes in SMS with notations of “preventable,” “not preventable” and “undecided.” “Preventable” crashes will be removed from the file. “Not preventable” crashes will remain in the system for five years. The FMCSA will continue its practice of not noting preventable or undecided determinations in the PSP, because the driver may be unaware when a previous employer has submitted a crash resulting in one of those determinations. To view a complete list of the crash types to be included in the revised reporting data, or to comment on the proposed change, click here.

So, you want to be a truck driver — Part 1

Kris Rutherford - April 18, 2023

In this series, we look at the steps and missteps involved in obtaining and maintaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Here’s the scenario: You’ve planned hard, worked your way through high school and have a stellar driving record. You dream of life on the road, and you can’t think of a better career than being a truck driver. “What could be easier?” you think to yourself. Just drop by your local Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) office, stand in line a while, get behind the wheel of a Class 8 tractor trailer and show them what you can do! Sorry … but fortunately for everyone on the road it’s not that easy. First of all, the FMCSA doesn’t handle licensing. That responsibility lies with individual states. While the FMCSA may issue a lot of guidelines — and even determine who can and cannot operate an 18-wheeler — there’s no nationwide agency administering the commercial driver’s license (CDL) testing process. In most states you’ll find the task is relegated to the Department of Motor Vehicles or a similar agency, usually the same one that issues run-of-the-mill driver’s licenses for four-wheeled vehicles. However, as the FMCSA website states, driving a commercial vehicle “requires a higher level of knowledge, experience, skills and physical abilities” than a non-commercial vehicle. For that reason, the requirements for earning a CDL are more complicated than those for teenagers who are testing for their first drivers’ licenses. There are a few points to keep in mind when you’re deciding if a career as a commercial motor vehicle operator is right for you. Training for the CDL test is not easy, and it’s not supposed to be. If you thought driver’s education class was difficult in high school, get ready for a whole new world. In fact, you can take everything you learned in driver’s ed — and everything you’ve experienced on the road as a driver — and magnify it. You’re getting ready to drive a larger, heavier and more dangerous vehicle than you’ve ever operated before, and you can’t expect to be a natural behind the wheel. Even if you are a natural, there are enough FMCSA restrictions, regulations and guidelines on the books to make you feel like you’re jumping straight from pedaling a tricycle to piloting a jumbo jet. In addition, the requirements for a CDL are built so that you’ll feel like you’re starting at the bottom. It may not be like joining the Army, but you’re planning to enter a profession where you’ll be held to a higher standard of responsibility and safety than most drivers with whom you share the roadway. In fact, a traffic violation that might result in a fine for the driver of an automobile could threaten your ability to keep your CDL — and your career. But before you go any further, be aware that being a commercial motor vehicle driver is a major responsibility. After all, you’ll share the highways with a lot of other drivers, each of which has a different level of ability, knowledge, skill and even concern for safety than you. It’s not a career for everyone. With all that said, don’t lose heart. Earning a CDL and enjoying a successful career on the road is well within reach; you simply need to understand the process. To find truck driving schools in your area, click here. Check back next week for the second installment in The Trucker’s “So, you want to be a truck driver” series.

Peterbilt partners with Lincoln Tech to expand technician training program

The Trucker News Staff - April 14, 2023

DENTON, Texas — Peterbilt has partnered with Lincoln Educational Services Corporation (Lincoln Tech) to offer the Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) program at its Nashville. “Peterbilt’s PTI program was developed specifically to prepare the next generation of service technicians. This partnership ensures students will receive best-in-class training, obtain valuable certifications and be placed in technician positions at Peterbilt dealerships earning a competitive salary and the opportunity to build a meaningful, long-term career,” said Jason Skoog, PACCAR vice president and Peterbilt general manager. Lincoln Tech, a national leader in specialized technical training for more than 75 years, offers a diesel training program at its Nashville campus that will allow PTI students to build additional skills using Peterbilt-specific equipment and technologies, a news release stated. “Establishing PTI in Nashville opens a new geographical territory where we can develop highly skilled technicians to support Peterbilt customers,” said Casey Spadafina, Peterbilt’s technician program manager for North America. Spadafina noted that this is the third site nationwide for PTI training, following locations in Chicago and the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Susan English, Lincoln Tech’s senior vice president for career services and industry partnerships, said the school is honored to support Peterbilt in their effort to train new technicians. “The partnership with Peterbilt opens an incredible number of doors for our graduates,” she added. Upon completion of the advanced diesel program, students will have earned nine factory-trained technician credentials, which can help fast-track them to careers at more than 420 Peterbilt dealerships across the US and Canada. The program is scheduled to begin this summer. Peterbilt officials say their goal is to double the number of technicians in their dealer network within five years. Interested students can learn more about the PTI program by visiting https://peterbilt.tech/institute.html.

Profits are possible when times are tough but good management is needed

Cliff Abbott - April 11, 2023

Truck prices are ridiculously high now. Fuel prices, too. Inflation is making everything cost more — while freight rates continue to fall. Carriers are going out of business. It’s a terrible time for trucking, right? Well … maybe it’s not so bad. It’s true that conditions today aren’t as favorable as they were two years ago, when the economy was opening up after COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions. It’s important to understand, however, that new records were being set for spot freight rates. Records were also being set for new carrier registrations as drivers bought trucks and obtained their own authority, to take advantage of the high freight rates. For a while, it was difficult NOT to make money in trucking. Since then, fuel prices have risen and freight rates have dropped. In the last quarter of 2022 nearly 2,000 carriers per DAY were giving up their own authority, effectively closing their businesses. Some leased their trucks to larger carriers with steady rates, while some sold their trucks, becoming company drivers — if they stayed in the business at all. Undoubtedly, it’s a tough time for small trucking businesses. However, even though costs are up and freight rates are down, it wouldn’t be accurate to say it’s impossible to operate a profitable trucking business. The reality is that rates are down from a record-setting peak reached in 2022, but they’re still higher than they were pre-pandemic. The cost of trucks has risen, but so has the fuel economy they provide, and advanced driver assist systems, or ADAS, have made them safer than ever. One telltale sign of trucking profitability is that when carriers are making money, they buy trucks. One reason for doing this is that profits invested in new equipment can be subtracted from the carrier’s taxable earnings. Another is simply that they expect to continue making money. Well, carriers are still buying trucks. On the U.S. market, 254,574 Class 8 trucks were sold last year, according to Wards Intelligence. That’s an average of over 21,000 per month, or about 20,500 if December (typically the highest sales month of the year) is taken out of the equation. This year is starting strong: at the end of February (the most recent month for which data was available at the time of this writing), 40,068 trucks had been sold. Truck manufacturers have received so many orders that, even if no more orders were received, it would take them more than nine months to build enough to clear the backlog. Clearly, large carriers are positioning themselves to profit in 2023. However, large carriers make up a very small percentage of registered carriers. In fact, more than 90% of carriers have five trucks or less. The majority are one-truck operations. Small carriers have some market disadvantages, such as smaller or no volume discounts of fuel, tires and repairs. Another factor that can harm small trucking businesses is a reliance on brokered freight, commonly known as “spot market.” Most large carriers sign contracts with customers, keeping freight rates at a particular level over the length of the contract. Not only does this help provide steady freight, but it also keeps rates from fluctuating wildly. Not so with spot rates, which can rise or fall much more quickly based on competition and other factors. To be profitable in today’s market requires some judicious business management. Unfortunately, that’s an area in which some owner-operators fall short. Those are the ones that typically get weeded out quickly when conditions worsen. To manage a business, the owner must know some key factors, beginning with cost per mile. That cost includes the driver/owner’s salary, fuel mileage and more. It’s nearly impossible to decide if an offered load is worth taking without knowing the cost per mile. Fuel mileage in miles per gallon is also important. Fuel prices can change daily, so knowing how many gallons will be needed for the load and any deadhead makes a difference. Spot freight often doesn’t include a fuel surcharge to compensate with prices rise, whereas many carriers provide one. The source of the freight is important, too. Spot rates are great when the market is rising, and not so good when its falling. Some truck owners lease to carriers because they compensate at a set rate, avoiding market fluctuations. Those that pay contractors by percentage may still be more stable if they have contracts in place with their customers that keep rates from drastic ups and downs. Truck owners sometimes run under their own authority when rates are high and then lease to carriers and running under the carrier’s authority when brokered freight rates are down. But even small carriers can enter into contracts for freight so they don’t rely entirely on the spot market for all their loads. It doesn’t hurt to have a discussion with a potential customer, but remember that being obligated for certain loads must fit in your operational schedule. For example, if your contract is to pick up a load in Atlanta on Wednesday, you’ll need to find freight with a delivery that puts you nearby when empty. A 16 deadhead to get to the pickup quickly negates the advantages of a contract. Knowing your market is also important. Rates differ in different areas of the country. The state of Florida could be the best example of this. You might be offered a great rate for a load going to Florida, but rates coming out of the state are notoriously low. That’s because Florida, with large numbers of tourists and retirees, consumes much more freight than it produces. Other areas of the U.S. have similar rate disparities, so before accepting a load, it pays to check the outbound rates for the delivery area. Finally, managing your business also includes managing your pay. Truck owners who treat any cash left over after paying expenses as “personal money” soon run into financial trouble. Put yourself on a salary, and leave any surplus from each settlement in the bank for future expenses. You can always pay yourself a bonus at year-end. Treating your trucking operation as the business that it is can help you remain profitable in the toughest of times.