In the wake of Hurricane Sandy many of the US was left stranded in need of basic supplies. Drivers stepped up and one by one they headed east. Many of the larger companies are just sending trucks filled with basic supplies to help in the effort. There are convoys of water and ready meals for the American Red Cross. While others were loaded up with general freight and were ready to take on the challenging roads. Not all the roads were clear. Many of them were in need of inspection before commercial traffic was to be allowed to travel on them;specific navigation was to happen to get the products to those who needed them the most.

Many of the home improvement stores were taking as many trucks as they can each day.The need was greater than the product that was on hand. Lowes and Home Depot reported that they were taking all the trucks they could get. Wood, tools, nails, chain saws, generators top the list, but anything that will help clear up debris and pave the way to normalcy for these people will be of great need not just now but in the days to come as well.

Medical supplies were also in great demand as many people were in need of prescriptions and general medications. Once again the truckers stepped up. Truck after truck was sent to the east coast to deliver these lifesaving medications to those in need. Not only was the medicine in great demand, so was the power that these drug stores had. Several of them run by generators had people coming to them in droves as the people searched for a way to get to an outlet to recharge their cell phones and electronic devises. CVS Pharmacies one of the area’s larger pharmacies took a preemptive look at the situation. In the week prior to Sandy they sent generators and extra supplies to the area that they thought would be most affected. The trucks brought an influx of medications and pharmacy related items including the generators and fuel that would be needed to keep these generators running smoothly. They encouraged others to make emergency kits.

People helping people has always been the American way. Truckers a helping person has been the way things have been done since there have been trucks. Drivers are the backbone of the country, when drivers move what we need we all are the better for it. Truckers will bring in and then take out everything we will need to rebuild this area.

The Women in Trucking (WIT) Association is hosting a reception at the conference of the American Trucking Association (ATA) in Las Vegas. The conference welcomes people are keen to connect with carriers that support WIT and its mission.

Open Invitation to Woman

Leigh Foxall, WIT’s Chairwoman of the Board and Director of Sales and Marketing for Internet Truckstop, “We are hosting this event to give industry professionals an update on the activities of WIT, but we are also interested in hearing from carriers who support our goals to better understand how-together-we can bring more women into the trucking industry.”

Acknowledgement

WIT was established in 2007 with a mission to promote trucking as a career that also welcomes women. The organization addresses hurdles that may deter women from joining or succeeding in the trucking industry. WIT also highlights the achievements of women who are already making their mark in the trucking industry.

Progress

The reception is sponsored by Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems and J. J. Keller & Associates Inc. WIT also holds a “Salute to the Women Behind the Wheel” event each year to recognize professional women drivers. It also gives the “Influential Woman in Trucking” award, which is sponsored by Navistar. WIT also provides an anti-harassment employment guide to its members.

An Altruistic Organization

The association recently formed a Scholarship Foundation to further support the cause it espouses. The group includes over 2,200 members, including both corporate and individuals.

There is nothing a trucker hates worse than being stopped for a road/truck infractions.  Offshoots of the FMCSA (The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), are the CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability), HOR (Hours on the Road)  and SMS (Safety Measurement System.  These agencies seem to be implementing rules so rapidly that it is difficult to keep up.  One of the things that have been implemented is a database on all truck drivers and companies.   There is presently a dispute regarding what goes on this database as it can cause problems by minor infractions appearing on the truckers driver’s record which is not necessarily their fault.  This not only provides a bad reputation for the driver but problems with DOT as well.

It would appear that the best key is to manage things so that, with the exception of regular truck inspection stops, there are no stops at all.    The things that will call attention to a truck driving down the highway area are:

Improper loading which is obvious to the viewer

Traffic  Violations

Random Inspections (4%)

This means that it is important that you make sure a load is properly secured and not overweight prior to leaving the company lot,  and following highway rules.  The Federal Bridge Formulas should be referred to regarding the weight allowed.  It limits the weight on how many axles a truck has and how far it is between these axles.  Every driver should know these weight allowances by heart.

There is nothing you can do about the random inspections.  However, they will not matter if there is nothing wrong and your logbook is current.

Truck safety is a major goal with FMSCA.  Violations on this subject can be avoided if you:

Do not follow too closely

Use your seat belt

Do not speed

Do not fail to yield to a traffic control device

HOS  (Hours of Service) violations

14 hours on duty

Logs are not current

And how you are acting (sleepy, cranky, etc)

Note:  New rules go into effect in July 2013 regarding these rules.

With today’s electronic age and the attachment of various tracking devices on trucks, it seems that your every move is viewed by someone.  However, if common sense is used in making sure the load is correctly secured and not overloaded that will eliminate part of the problem.  Sometimes things will happen that are beyond your control, such as a turn light going out.  However, when checking the vehicle prior to going on the road checking lights should be just as important as checking brake lines, tires, connectors, and other things.   If something is wrong, it should be corrected prior to ever leaving the departure point.

When the economy is poor and pennies are tight, finding ways to save money is important.  One example is found during downtime when rigs are generally set in an idling position in order to generate enough power to run basic features like lighting, climate control, and appliances.  However, a new type of generator manufactured by RigMaster Power not only ensures the “lights stay on,” but achieves this goal for a very affordable price.

This system is powered by a 2-cylinder, water-cooled, diesel engine that also has a built-in radiator.  This allows it to run independent of the truck while providing 110 volt house current to run appliances and power tools as well as a 60 amp alternate charger to run marker lights and ensure the truck’s batteries remain fully charged.   Ultimately, the reduced wear-and-tear on engines and lower operating costs make it the ideal solution for many drivers.

The RigMaster Power is a stand-alone generator that is extremely quiet since it has been designed with a dome-shaped cover that seals in noise.  It not only complies with new anti-idling laws, but also reduces pollution, which protects the environment.  Still, there is no reason why truckers must suffer from environmental condition since its stand-alone heating/cooling system has automatic climate control independent of the truck’s coolant and heating systems.

The system is fairly easy to install.  The main unit is securely mounted on the railing beside the saddle tank.  The heating/AC unit and two 110v receptacles are then inconspicuously mounted inside the bunk unit along with a main control panel.  The control panel itself is small with a backlit digital LED display data system that can also come with an optional auto-start feature.

The heating unit produces 13,500 BTUs and draws 16 amps when set on high speed.  The air conditioner, on the other hand, produces 20,000 BTUs and draws 11 amps when set on high speed.  These along with the two 110v receptacles and 60 amp DC adapter that recharges the truck’s batteries are all run by a 14hp Perkins diesel engine that weighs 386 pounds and comes with a one year unlimited hours warranty that includes parts and labor.

Reports from drivers using the RigMaster Power system reported that idling time has dropped to less than 10% and they couldn’t be more pleased.  Some owners report that they use only ½ gallon of diesel for every 6 hours of operation.  Additionally, the fact that the main unit only occupies 30″ of rail space is a real plus and is suitable for use in virtually any class 7 and 8 truck make and model.  These include Peterbilt, International, Freightliner, Western Star, Volvo, Kenworth, Mack, and many others.

For owners/operators it has been found that the RigMaster Power System’s $7188.00 price tag, not including tax, and $850 installation fee is easily recouped within the first year on lower operating costs.  For many drivers it is well-worth the upfront costs to save thousands over the life of the truck

For truck owners/operators new software just released by Aljex is expected to be a hit.  The Driver Pay Dashboard is a new software tool that displays information to manage and pay for services by accessing a single screen.  For many truck owners/operators the advantages of this type of tracking system is proving to be highly efficient.

The Vision software is hosted on the internet and used by the Driver Pay Dashboard.  It provides a multitude of information as well as provides an organizational tool that accurately and quickly manages accounts.  Driver’s current loads as well as loads waiting for payment can be viewed with the touch of a single button.  Additionally, it also provides information on pending pay deductions for drivers and escrow accounts and balances.

When taking on the responsibilities of a business owner there are many facets which, although may appear less important on the surface, are actually critical to success.  With this type of software, however, all paperwork and supporting documentation is readily available and easy to input.  For example, regardless of where you may be, to be able to link a driver/carrier’s history, qualifications, compliance, vacation hours, and all supporting documentation needed by accessing a single screen at one time was unfathomable.

With today’s software technology, however, these features along an invoicing system that scans required documentation for updating invoices is not only available, but easier to use than ever.  Additionally, it can all be completed in the time it takes to process a driver’s paperwork.  Ultimately, this software design has totally changed the way driver’s pay is processed.

Let’s say you have a load come in and you want to pay the driver right away.  With the touch of a button Aljex provides the needed information by touching the screen indicating the type of transaction to be carried.  The Dashboard instantly assigns a check number and even prints it out.  According to CEO Tom Heine, “With Driver Pay Dashboard everything you need to manage and pay drivers is in one place and checks can be cut at a terminal, an agent office, as well as at headquarters.”

One of the greatest advantages is that not only office sites, but the truckers themselves have access to personal information.  For example, the truck mounted dashboards will display a driver’s load and payment histories, compliance, escrow accounts, and even vacation hours accumulated.  This is a huge benefit to drivers that depend on this information to know where they stand and how they are doing at any given point in time.

Aljex Vision manufacturers the Driver Pay Dashboard software.  There is no huge, upfront investment and it is easy and quick to install.  Larger fleet owners can be set up within a matter of days whereas smaller fleets and independent owners/operators as well as brokers can be up and running within hours.  Since this software is internet hosted it’s also nice to know that as new features are added, the program is automatically updated.  For those seeking a more efficient alternative, this is definitely a program that should be investigated further.

Anyone that drives a truck understands that tires take a beating and are often the biggest financial expenditure of all maintenance costs.  Research shows that 80% of problems encountered with tires are caused by incorrect inflation.  Frequently, they are not checked often enough which leads to uneven wear.  Worst of all, underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency.

One new piece of technology designed to alleviate this problem is the automatic tire inflation system, such as that released by Pressure Systems International.   This system increases tire life by ensuring tires remain properly inflated at all times.  In the long run this saves on fuel and increases safety by compensating for pressure lost through slow leaks, punctures, and other problems.

This is different from an equalization system in that it does not just distribute the air from one tire to another.  Nor is it like the monitoring system that merely draws a driver’s attention to the fact that one or more tires have lost air pressure.  Instead, auto-inflation systems utilize the compressed air available through the truck’s own air system to re-inflate tires that fall below preset manufacturer levels.

The way this works is that all tires on the trailer are connected to an air supply that keeps them at the proper pressure, even when the truck is in motion.  Needed air is routed through a control box, which ensures that all tires have the perfect pressure at all times.  This extends the life of the tires as well as ensures that tire tread wears evenly and maximum fuel efficiency is maintained.  Regardless of whether a driver has a van, container chassis, flatbed, or something else, this system is easily adaptable.

There are also other great advances in technology when it comes to preserving tires and improving fuel efficiency.  Another option, also designed by Pressure Systems International, is the ThermALERT.  This system utilizes a thermal screw which melts if the tire temperature becomes too high.  When the plug melts, air is allowed to escape through the tee vent in the hubcap thereby triggering exterior lights and emitting an audible signal that warns the driver.  By adding this type of protection, drivers can take a proactive stance by avoiding damage caused by elevated temperatures.  This lessens downtime, costs, and risks and results in more business volume.

Maintaining proper levels of inflation are required to extend tire life, increase fuel economy, and ensure deliveries arrive on time.  Inflation and high temperature inflation and warning systems are a great way to make certain that tires are the last thing you have to worry about.  With all the new technology available today, reduced fuel use and lower maintenance costs are easier to achieve than ever.

The trucking industry is complex especially for those who attempt to become a lease operator before they are totally ready. Although many new drivers may have the desire to own their own rig and run their own company, having that dream and being successful takes experience and knowledge of the many parts of the industry that impact income, especially when the state of the economy is taken into consideration.  Knowledge of how to run a business is a key to success.

Starting a company often begins with leasing a truck, which is much cheaper than buying one and hoping you can find work.  Contracts associated with leasing often include high-interest balloon payments, questionably legal documentation that is confusing, and individuals that have developed scams that result in money pouring into the company and out of the driver’s pocket.  The one exception found was JCT, which is an Oklahoma-based company.

JCT leases only to experienced drivers.  Leases are set for 5 years after which time the truck is purchased for $1.  At this point drivers decide whether they want to continue driving the same truck, trading it in for a new lease, or purchasing a new rig.  By keeping the original truck, a driver can save between $600 and $900 per week.

It’s not uncommon for new drivers to become obsessed with owning their own company one day.  Unfortunately, it’s all too common for drivers to hear about deals that are too good to be true and they usually are. Research is very important at the beginning stages to determine if this is an option that is viable for you.  There are many facets of the business that need to be considered prior to making this kind of commitment.

Even with JCT, however, expensive travel is required.  The amount of money a driver can make in a lease program is directly related to meeting the milestones set by the company.  For those associated with this company, or any other, they can expect to spend years in the program when skills at business ownership are developed.  It should be remembered that in order to be successful, an individual must be social, not mind asking questions, and be willing to market themselves which manufactures that require transport services.

The best way to begin is with an established company with a good reputation, like JCT.  With their guidance an individual will learn the ropes, develop skills needed to become independent, and make the connections necessary to ensure that driving time is filled with work.  This can be very difficult when the economy takes the downturn.  It creates a surplus in drivers resulting in hiring freezes and more difficulty finding work.  It’s also important that once connected with a company, no less than two years be spent establishing a positive work history.  As a driver, once you learn the ropes, starting your own company is the next logical step, but make sure you do your homework before you make such a big move.

Many people think of truck drivers as just someone who drives a truck down the highway. In reality, they have saved many lives with quick action, when it suddenly appears that someone is in danger. Here at Houston we are happy to acknowledge the courage of drivers who are driving the kinds of trucks we offer. Whether new or used, these trucks carry the best drivers in the world. Of course, this article cannot name them all but here are a few examples.

John Neumeier a dairy truck driver from Russia, Ohio. Saw a car plunge into an eight-foot-deep pond. He jumped from the truck, dove in the pond, and used a wrench to break a car window to rescue a 63-year-old man.

Mike Schiotis of Spring Hill, Tenn. Rescued a woman who was walking along the road with a man pointing a gun at her head. Positioning himself between the woman and the gunman, Mike got her into his truck and drove her to safety, while notifying the police.

John Crozman of Black Hawk, S.D. Rescued an elderly couple parked at the side of the road during a severe snowstorm, trying to keep warm with a candle. He took them into his warm sleeper cab and made sure they were rescued the next day.

Melville Farnell of Shelburne, Ontario. Driving down the highway, he was hit by a car. This caused the truck to veer and jackknife. The car was smashed and the driver was unconscious. Melville jumped from his truck and got the driver out just before the car exploded.

T.J. Lyon, of Spanish Fork, Utah. Aided in the capture of a murder suspect who was a passenger in his truck. Because of the passenger’s erratic conversation, Lyon sent a text to his sister, who was able to contact police. They stopped the truck and captured the suspect.

These are just a few of the many valiant truck drivers who face unknown dangers on the road. Everyday a driver somewhere risks his life to save others. These unsung heroes are ever on the alert for drunken drivers, auto accidents, and other events that can occur any time, on or off road. Hats off to all truck drivers everywhere!!!

Naturally, they want the best vehicles possible for the job so there are no delays with breakdowns.  They have choices of buying, leasing, or leasing to own.  New trucks cost hundreds of thousands of dollars but professionals in the trucking business are well aware of the excellent used vehicles that are for sale.The type of truck purchased depends on it use.  A long distance driver for example, would choose one of the excellent sleeper trucks available.  These trucks are a home away from home and have been carefully cared for by their previous owner.  Popular models are Kenworth, Freightliner, Peterbilt, Volvo, Mack, and International.  Each truck has specific features that make each one outstanding on its own merit.

The condition of today’s used trucks is excellent  with the majority of models available having a low odometer reading, good brakes, lights, motor, and so forth.  The past 20 years has shown an outstanding development in truck construction.  Stronger materials, a better motor, safety features, technological improvements, and excellent design have brought the used trucks currently on the market to a state-of-art in their design.

Choosing a good used truck will allow the buyer to immediately step into a hauling job and hit the road.  This means that it will not be long before the vehicle is paid off and good money is being earned.  Trucking is a career that is fulfilling, yet does not require 4 years of college studying irrelevant material.  With good physical ability, a good attitude, and a willingness to work, it is just a matter of qualifying for a commercial license, a few days training, and contracting a carrier, before hitting America’s highways.

Everyone knows that Houston is the center of shipping activity, not only in the U.S. but also throughout the world.  Its many companies make extensive use of long haul trucking.  What better place to find the very best in used trucks that are in excellent condition?  A look on the Internet will show what is available.

The entire world uses trucks and drivers for many types of work.  There are owner-operators, company drivers, and Independent owner-operators.  The job categories are regional, Interstate, Team, Tanker, Vocational, Drayage, and Bullrack Drivers.  Each requires special skills to carry out their particular job.  While we are acquainted with the rules and regulations of the United States regarding restrictive hours, it is interesting to compare them with the requirements of other countries.
In the United States, working hours of service is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrations.  They are:

• After driving 12 hours during a 14-hour period, the driver must rest for at least 10 consecutive hours.
• After 8 hours off duty drivers cannot drive more than 10 consecutive hours or

after 10 hours off duty cannot drive more than 14 straight hours.

• They may not drive more than 60 hours on 7 consecutive days, or 70 hours on 8 consecutive days.
• In Alaska, a driver can work a maximum of 70 hours per week.  The driving limit is 11 hours per day with a 30-minute break every 8 hours.  It may be taken at any time during that 8 hours.  Two nights rest is required between 1:a.m to 5:00 a.m. during a 24-hour period.

There are electronic on-board recorders on many trucks, which automatically record all its movements.  Currently the FMCSA is considering making this mandatory on all trucks to enable drivers to keep better records of the actual driving hours.
Australia drivers of a gross vehicle mass of more than 12 tons are strictly regulated.

• A 30-minute break must be taken every 5 hours and every 14 hours the driver must stop for 10 hours.  This includes non-driving duties.
• After 72 hours, they must spend 24 hours away from the vehicle.

Canada has rules regarding any driver operating a truck, tractor, trailer, or combination with a gross weight over 4,500 kg, or a 24-passenger bus.  Their regulations are complicated as they are specifically designed for two different areas of the country.  In the 60 degree, North Parallel these include:

• A limit of 13 hours maximum driving in a period of 24 hours.
• Eight consecutive hours of rest is required every 24 hours.
• An additional 2 hours in a minimum of 30-minute blocks is also required.
• They have ‘Cycles’ which limit the total amount allowed before time off is required.  Cycle 1- a 7-day period requires 70 hours rest.  Cycle 2- a 14-day period requires 120 hours off.

European Union regulations are strict as well.

• Non-stop driving is limited to 4.5 hours.  After that time, the driver must rest for 45 minutes.
• The law states that no one is allowed to drive over 9 hours, but then states it can be extended to almost 10 hours twice per week.
• Total driving time for the week cannot exceed 56 hours.
• A driver cannot work more than 90 hours in a two-week period.