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.

As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas, so it shouldn’t be surprising that bigger vehicles – namely trucks – are big sellers in the state. To say that the market for trucks in Texas is large would be an understatement, because in addition to the traditional consumer trucks, such as pickups, commercial trucks are popular sellers in the state. Of course, not all trucks – commercial or otherwise – are created equally, and Texans know that. Thus, it’s not uncommon to see certain types of commercial trucks selling far better than others. Whether you’re buying or selling, knowing which types of Texas trucks for sale are the best-selling can help you get a better price.

Although the market fluctuates relatively rapidly, used Volvo trucks are among the highest commercial sellers currently. Volvo may not be the first name that many people think of when considering what kind of truck to purchase, but those in the trucking industry recognize that Volvo is a high-quality manufacturer of commercial trucks. The Swedish manufacturer has a knack for providing powerful vehicles that are built without excess mass. In the world of commercial trucking, this translates to fast acceleration, rapid braking, capable towing and enviable handling – all of which are top priorities on any commercial truck driver’s list.

A survey of the Houston used trucks market also suggests that perennial favorite Mack is still going strong. Mack trucks are known for durability and power, so it’s no surprise that when buyers look for used commercial trucks, they choose Mack with the knowledge that the truck should still run well. Mack trucks are not as lightweight as some other models, such as the aforementioned Volvo trucks, but Mack’s reputation is essentially unparalleled in the world of trucking, and the attractive pricing – particularly on used models – makes Mack trucks a favorite of used commercial truck buyers in Texas. A benefit of the popularity of Mack trucks is that the large output all but guarantees there will be a large bod of used Mack trucks available at any given time.

Also popular in the Texas used commercial truck market are sleeper trucks and day cabs. Because Texas is a favorite stopping point of many long-haul truckers, it’s not uncommon to see day cabs and sleeper trucks on the highway and at rest stops. Because of this, truck manufacturers looking to gain insight into what truckers want and need out of commercial day cabs and sleeper trucks often conduct research across the state. In fact, it’s not unlikely that a trucker shopping Houston used trucks lots might find a sleeper truck or day cab inspired by comments he made in an interview with a manufacturer’s field agent.

Trucking is undoubtedly big in Texas, and the used truck market continues to be healthy thanks to a strong demand. Trucking makes America what it is, so commercial trucks will always be available across the nation, with Texas and other hubs providing larger selections than other states.

Houston Truck Deals delivers news and information on the state of the trucking industry in the Houston area, the state of Texas and national developments which affect us in the South West. Many drivers are experiencing the pain at the pumps with gas bills frequently topping $1,000 and more to fill an 18-wheeler’s fuel tank. The state of the economy and the health of the trucking industry rely on effective control of the rising cost of diesel. This is more than simply the pain associated with a headlining $5 a gallon gas price – the state of the entire recovery and the US economy rely upon dealing with the cost of diesel.

Today, we take a look at the written submissions of the American Trucking Association to Congress in Washington D.C.:

A recent press release told us that the House Natural Resources Committee met with American Trucking Associations President and CEO Bill Graves to discuss the trucking industry’s need for access to affordable diesel fuel, as well as potential new practices for the trucking industry.

Graves, in regards to the rising oil prices, shared with the committee the expected amount the trucking industry projects it will spend on fuel in 2011, and the cost is a good $35 billion dollars more than 2010.  Graves explains that this not only impacts the trucking industry, but trickles all the way down to the consumer.

Graves had many suggestions for the committee, all having to do with Congress involvement to make them happen.  One is to conserve the oil we have by encouraging the development of gas-to-liquid fuels.  Liquefied natural gas (LNG) trucks are double the price of a standard diesel truck, but the potential savings in relation to oil prices is significant.  In order to encourage the use of these LNG trucks, Graves suggests that not only should Congress regulated refueling and weight stations to accommodate the LNG trucks, which are heavier than standard diesel trucks.  Additionally, Graves says that a tax credit may be necessary to encourage trucking companies to make the change over to LNG trucks.

The LNG truck is not a single solution to the problem, however.  Graves says that while this practice would conserve diesel fuel, more oil needs to be made available.  Because of this need, Graves suggests that Congress urges the Obama administration to allow more offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico to procure more oil.  Graves is adamant that the US do more to increase the supply of oil so that fuel costs can be addressed.

While the hearing was technically about gas prices, Graves, as a spokesperson for the trucking industry, was a key person to make a statement, since around seven million Americans currently work in the trucking industry, and the industry is suffering because of the high fuel prices.

Houston Truck Deals is dedicated to bringing you the news and views on what is happening within the trucking industry. Today, we’re taking a look at NTSB lady chairperson who also holds a CDL – the first NTSB head to do so:

Deborah A.P. Hersman, Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, knows a lot about the transportation industry.  In fact, prior to her appointment as Chairman of the NTSB in July of 2009, she served on the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation (1999 to 2004), and has held her Commercial Driver’s License since 2004.  What better-qualified woman to honor female truck drivers at the largest heavy-duty trucking event in the world?

Hersman honored female truck drivers at the 2^nd Annual Women in Trucking Salute to Women Behind the Wheel, an event that occurred on the last day of the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.  The 2010 1^st Annual Women in Trucking Salute to Women Behind the Wheel yielded 300 participants, and this year’s was expected to have double attendance.  600 hundred participants are more than enough to beat the former world record for the largest gathering of professional women truck drivers -  a record set in 2004 in the Netherlands.

The larger event, The Mid-America Trucking Show, celebrated its fortieth anniversary this year, and had exhibitors from every possible field of the trucking industry.

Hersman departed Washington, D.C. in a 2011 Kenworth T660 heavy-duty, long-haul tractor trailer.  The rig was driven by Conway Truckload professional Stephanie Klang.  During the course of the journey to Louisville, Hersman rode with four other drivers that work for companies that belong to the Women in Trucking organization, including U.S. Xpress, Schneider, Wal-Mart, and UPS.

Along the way, Hersman observed a Level 1 roadside inspection at a weigh station in Maryland, visited a West Virginia travel center, and more.  She met with Kentucky and West Virginia transportation officials at one round table, as well as with safety advocates at another.  She hosted a listening session with safety officials, and one with professional drivers.  Her journey ended at the Mid-America Trucking Show, where her salute to female truck drivers began at 1 PM EDT at the Kentucky Fair and Exp Center on the last day of the show.

The NTSB formed in 1967 with strong ties to the U.S. Department of Transportation.  In 1975, the Independent Safety Board Act severed those ties and exists today as an independent organization that gets its authority from U.S. Code Title 49-Subtitle 11 – Chapter 11.  The organization’s main purpose is to investigate accidents that happen on land or in the air, but safety and the prevention of accidents is a main goal and focus.  Terms of office last five years, so Hersman will hold her title until July of 2014.

Houston Truck Deals is the premier online resource for truckers and owner-operators, including providing a secure online platform for buying and selling trucking equipment.

We cover the latest consumer spending data issued by the U.S. government for February 2011:

Consumers increased their spending by 0.7% in February 2011, which follows on from a 0.3% increase in spending reported for the month of January. Whilst the increases in consumer spending is good news for the economy, there are several worrying issues which ought to be addressed.

When an economy transitions from recession to recovery, the greatest fear is that price inflation will outstrip the ability of consumers to buy goods and the recovery will slide back into recession. There is a very delicate balancing act with the need to maintain price stability and business recovery, but at the same time to ensure that price inflation is curbed because this in turn leads to higher interest rates and this dampens down any economic revival.

The fact that consumers are prepared to spend more money is the most heartening sign of all. The fact that people feel more secure in their jobs and financial situation is allowing them to consider greater expenditures, however there is a sting in the tail with this data.

The extra money for spending is coming from consumers accessing savings and using credit to meet the gap between their incomes and the cost of goods they are buying.  A major component of the increase in consumer spending is the price of gas – with gas knocking on the $4 per gallon level, and fears of a $5 a gallon price level this year, the cost of motoring is going up. Once you appreciate the masking effect that the cost of gas is having on total amount of consumer spending, the strength of the economic recovery is put into perspective.

If more money is simply going into gas tanks rather than buying goods and services, then the recovery cannot be as strong as the data tells us. The good news is still that consumer spending on goods and services is also rising, even after taking into account the chunk allocated to gas costs, but it is a delicate set of increases in spending which could be simply wiped out if price inflation starts running rampant.

The bottom line is that while we are on the road to recovery, as can be seen from new job hires within the trucking industry, increasing driver rates and unfortunately, increases in the cost of diesel at the pumps, the whole economic outlook is still very fragile.

Houston Truck Deals is the #1 Houston trucking resource on the Web and for buying and selling trucking equipment.

Today, HTD puts the spotlight on the growing problem of domestic human and child sex trafficking afflicting the country and the efforts of Truckers Against Trafficking to combat the problem:

The border with Mexico is a problem for truckers and the country, though the major issue is the impact of illegal immigration with desperate people trying to make it into the US which creates a human problem, both for the illegals themselves and for the US. Any truck driver operating in the region knows the problems because they see them every day: border checks, high crime threat, drug cartels creating havoc and unsafe conditions for everyone, and a human and economic cost which is impossible to quantify but we all know it is extremely expensive.

What many do not understand is that there is a huge human trafficking problem within the United States itself. Of particular concern is the level of child sex trafficking within and between states.

Truckers Against Trafficking has been established to recruit truckers as eyes and ears to help tackle the problem. The average age of a child involved in the illicit sex trade is just 13 years old – I have two children on either side of that age and it is impossible for me to even consider what is happening to these kids who are less fortunate.

But truckers can and do make a difference – all it takes is one phone call to report any suspicious activity to save a child.

The problem of child sex trafficking spreads across the entire country, though there are hotspots in certain areas which are more affected.  Oklahoma is one such hotspot, situated as it is right in the center of the country and at the crossroads of virtually all the major national trucking routes. Texas is also a regional hotspot, given its extended border with Mexico and the activities of human trafficking gangs trading in human misery and targeting vulnerable children for effective enslavement in the sex trade.

Shared Hope International is an organization which monitors the child sex trafficking problem both internationally and domestically. A recent report card was issued for Arizona, one of Texas’ neighbors, and the results are deeply disturbing. An overall assessment of the laws and actions of enforcement authorities has resulted in only a moderate rating.

For instance, AZ has relaxed one child prostitution law which has downgraded buying sex from a child aged between 15 and 17, from a Class 2 to a Class 6 felony. In jail sentencing terms that means the difference between 21 years and as little as 90 days.

The really disturbing issue is that Arizona is not particularly bad at tackling the issue, just about as good as every other state in the country.

Check out this blog post at Jim and Jan McCarter’s blog on the issue (Jim is aka Bobby Boofay)