Industry News & Tips for Truck Drivers

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Written by: Kate Williams

September 26, 2024

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Written by: Darin Williams

August 19, 2024

In the competitive world of driver recruiting, crafting a compelling trucking job description is essential to attract top talent. However, there’s one crucial mistake that many recruiting managers make that can significantly impact their hiring success: failing to include pay information in job postings.

Why Pay Information Matters

1. Attracting the Right Candidates

Including pay information in your job description is a powerful way to attract the right candidates. Truck drivers are often comparing various job offers, and pay is a major deciding factor. By being transparent about compensation, you eliminate guesswork and attract candidates who are genuinely interested in your offer. This helps ensure that your applicants are more likely to be a good fit for your pay scale and expectations.

2. Saving Time and Resources

When you provide pay details upfront, you save time and resources for both yourself and the potential hires. Applicants who know the pay range are less likely to apply if the compensation doesn't meet their expectations, reducing the number of unqualified or mismatched candidates. This helps streamline the recruiting process and allows you to focus on candidates who are genuinely interested in the role.

3. Enhancing Your Employer Brand

Transparency builds trust. By including pay information, you demonstrate that your trucking company values honesty and openness. This not only helps in attracting potential hires but also positively influences your employer brand. Drivers are more likely to view your company as fair and reputable, which can improve your overall recruitment efforts and employee satisfaction.

4. Staying Competitive

The trucking industry is highly competitive, with many companies vying for the same pool of qualified drivers. By clearly stating the driver pay, you position your company as straightforward and competitive. This can give you an edge over competitors who may be less transparent about their pay structures, making your job postings more appealing.

How to Include Driver Pay Information Effectively

1. Be Specific

Provide a clear mileage or hourly pay structure in your job posting. Instead of saying "competitive salary," specify the actual pay range or average earnings for the position. For example, "Earn between $70,000 and $80,000 annually based on experience and performance." Avoid “up to” whenever possible.

2. Highlight Additional Benefits

Along with the base pay, include details about additional benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, and any other perks. Comprehensive pay information helps drivers understand the full value of the job offer and how it compares to other opportunities.

3. Address Pay Transparency

Consider including a statement about your company’s commitment to pay transparency. For instance, “We believe in fair and transparent compensation and are proud to offer competitive wages for our drivers.”

4. Update Regularly

Ensure that the pay information you provide is current and accurate. Regularly update your job postings to reflect any changes in compensation or benefits to avoid misleading potential candidates.

Avoid Common Pitfalls When Writing your Trucking Job Descriptions

1. Don’t Obscure Pay Details

Avoid vague or misleading terms like "competitive salary" or "negotiable pay." These can create frustration for drivers who want clear information before applying. Be as explicit as possible about what you’re offering.

2. Don’t Ignore Market Rates

Make sure your pay range aligns with industry standards and market rates. Offering significantly lower wages than your competitors will deter qualified candidates from applying.

3. Don’t Overlook Local Variations

Consider regional pay variations and adjust your salary offerings accordingly. Different locations may have different living costs and pay expectations, so tailor your pay information to reflect local conditions.

In the competitive trucking industry, including pay information in your job descriptions is not just a detail, it’s a critical component of effective recruitment. By providing clear, transparent compensation details, you attract the right candidates, save time and resources, enhance your employer brand, and stay competitive. Avoiding the mistake of omitting pay information will significantly improve your recruitment efforts and help you secure the best drivers for your company.

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Written by: Tyson Williams

August 05, 2024

August marks the trucking industry’s observance of Brake Safety Awareness. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) hosts Brake Safety Week from August 25-31, 2024. The initiative promotes motor vehicle brake safety inspection, enforcement, and education across North America. Brake systems and brake adjustments are the most cited violations during roadside inspections.

Professional truck drivers know how important a rig’s moving parts and stopping practices are. Bringing an 18-wheeler to a full stop in the fast-paced environment drivers experience requires skill and precision, and it’s impossible without the right equipment. Keeping your brakes in good condition is vital to the safety of truckers and all others on the road. 

While brake safety enforcement may first appear to be a nuisance, it’s important to remember the serious environment in which truckers work. Truck accident statistics are disturbing. Nearly 5,000 people died in large-truck crashes in 2020. Trucking deaths have steadily increased over the past decade. Brake safety awareness plays a pivotal role in reversing that somber trend.

WHAT TRUCKERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CVSA BRAKE SAFETY WEEK

The focus of this year’s Brake Safety Week is on the condition of the brake lining and pad. Brake lining and pad issues may result in vehicle violations and could affect a motor carrier’s safety rating. The goal of this and other safety programs is to reduce the number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities that tragically occur on North American highways.

If violations are discovered related to critical braking components, vehicles could be placed out of service until corrective measures are taken. The CVSA emphasizes hoses and tubing as components that add to safety and braking fitness. Truckers who pass inspections may receive a CVSA sticker, a token showcasing truckers’ responsibility and preparedness for life on the road.

CVSA aims to highlight brake system violations found at roadside inspections. As mentioned, these infractions are the most common violation of any category. Trucks all over North America deal with this prolific issue. Therefore, CVSA has partnered with the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Mexico’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation, and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to promote brake safety awareness.

During the 2023 enforcement campaign, nearly 19,000 vehicles were inspected, with 12.6 percent removed from the roadways due to brake-related out-of-service violations.  Some examples of brake-related out-of-service violations that automatically place the vehicle out of service include broken brake drums, loose air tanks, corroded holes in a spring brake housing, and inoperative tractor protection valves. 

Of the 2,375 commercial motor vehicles that were placed out of service, the findings were as follows:

• 295 (12.4%) had steering axle brake violations
• 1,127 (47.5%) had stand-alone brake violations and
• 1,394 (58.7%) failed the 20% defective brakes criterion, which states that a vehicle is out of service if the number of defective brakes is equal to or greater than 20% of the service brakes on the vehicle or combination.

If violations are discovered related to critical braking components, vehicles could be placed out of service until corrective measures are taken. Truckers who pass inspections may receive a CVSA sticker, a token showcasing truckers’ responsibility and preparedness for life on the road.

THE BIG IMPACT OF BRAKE RECALLS

As described, brake issues are widespread throughout the industry. The effect is massive disruptions for trucking companies and their drivers.

In recent years, Daimler Truck North America recalled over 70,000 model-year 2021-2023 Freightliner and Western Star tractors. This follows an earlier recall of 218,000 vehicles where valve corrosion may cause brakes to pull to the affected side during automatic braking events. As a result, crashes are more likely to occur because of trucks’ increased stop time.

DTNA notified truck owners and dealers performed the repairs free of charge once trucks are recalled.

WOULD YOUR TRUCK PASS BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION?

To reiterate, braking deficiencies are the most common inspection violations. FMCSA’s Pocket Guide to Large Truck and Bus Statistics also found this to be true. Given the industry’s enhanced efforts to improve braking systems, it’s wise for professional CDL drivers to carefully inspect their own systems. The alternative might cause you to be sidelined. There are a few essential things truckers need to be aware of:

• Operation Airbrake:  This program focuses on checking brake systems on all commercial vehicles. Trucks, buses, and all others. Professional CDL holders can expect increased Level IV brake inspections during the designated safety week from August 25-31, 2024.

• Educate Driving Teams:  Freight-hauling trucking companies are advised to double their efforts to educate drivers about FMCSA regulations, as well as routine maintenance and inspection protocols. Consider handing out safety checklists and gather all the necessary paperwork to present to roadside inspectors.

• Common Problems:  Inspectors are aware of the most common shortcomings in a commercial vehicle’s braking system. These include loose parts, missing components, leaking fluids, air leaks, worn-out pads, faulty rotors, and anti-lock brake indicator lights.

Interstate motor carriers, who employ upwards of 3.5 million truck drivers and a total of 10 million Americans, are generally diligent about safety measures. With that said, heightened awareness during brake safety month rightfully brings the issue to the forefront of peoples’ minds. Initiatives to improve driving safety are critical reminders designed to keep our roadways safe.

PRACTICE BRAKE SAFETY AWARENESS WHILE HAULING FREIGHT

Many things cause trucking accidents on America’s highways and roads. It’s no secret that aggressive non-professional motorists, drunk driving, and distracted driving are significant contributors. Professional truck drivers can’t fix the bad behavior and poor driving habits of others. But there are proactive measures we can take to keep America trucking, to keep transporting the goods and materials that maintain the greatest economy in the history of the world.

• Understand Speed-Distance Ratios: Truckers operating a big rig under 40 mph should generally calculate at least one second of stopping time, per your truck’s length, for every 10 feet between you and the vehicle ahead. When operating above 40 mph, that safe stopping distance usually increases by at least one more second. As your rate of speed increases, consider even wider safe distances whenever possible. Always err on the side of caution.

• Fully Loaded Rigs: When a tractor-trailer is at or near capacity, the safe stopping distance increases substantially. Under ideal road conditions, a freight-hauling vehicle requires nearly 400 feet of stopping distance while traveling at just 55 mph and more than 525 feet at 65 mph. To put that in perspective, that distance is almost the length of two football fields. Adverse road conditions make braking distances even greater.

August brings the opportunity to promote brake safety awareness for the trucking community. Operation Airbrake’s inspections are a great initiative to help avoid unnecessary crashes and consequently save lives. Promote brake safety awareness; use this reminder to review essential safety tips and think of brake safety week as your friend.

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Written by: Kate Williams

August 01, 2024

If you work as a truck driver or plan to enter the industry, you’ll want to consider how to file your taxes. Tax obligations depend on your current employment status. Owner Operators will have to file differently than company truck drivers. Staying on top of your tax requirements will help you manage your income and expenses better. Remember to keep all expense receipts to make the tax filing process go smoothly.

Company driver tax deductions

Drivers, including those who work for trucking companies, will receive a W-2 form from their employers. In years past, truck drivers could make deductions on their tax returns for certain expenses despite being employed by a private company. Write-offs included mileage and travel expenses. However, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated travel expenses claimed by truck drivers who receive W-2s from their employers. Once you become an independent Owner Operator as a driver, you will report income through Form 1099 and can claim deductions to reduce tax payments.

The transition from employee to owner operator

Many truck drivers may start as private employees. With taxes automatically deducted from their paychecks, the drivers may not realize filing requirements have changed. Keep in mind that if you switch from an employee to a self-employed employee mid-year, you must file a W-2 and 1099. The tax return will need to show your self-employment income as well as your earnings from an employer.

Another part of transitioning from an employee to an Owner Operator is establishing your tax status. A frequent mistake is incorporating too quickly. Instead, accountants recommend working as an independent contractor for at least a year before changing tax status to a sole proprietorship or establishing an LLC. As an Owner Operator, you will make tax payments every quarter. An individual, sole proprietor, or partner, will use Form 1040-ES to estimate tax payments. Corporations rely on Form 1040-W to calculate taxes owed.

As a new Owner Operator, you’ll want to set aside approximately 20 to 30 percent of your income to pay taxes, according to Keeper Tax. After operating independently for at least a year, you could also use the safe harbor method to estimate tax obligations. Drivers can look at the year prior’s tax liability and divide the amount by four to calculate quarterly payments. Any driver anticipating owing more than $1,000 to the IRS must make quarterly payments to avoid penalties.

As of August 2024, the self-employment tax rate set by the Internal Revenue Service is 15.3 percent. The rate includes 12.4 percent for Social Security and 2.9 percent for Medicare. Higher Medicare taxes may apply to Owner Operators earning more than $125,000. Tax deductions and tax credits reduce a driver’s liability. 

Truck driver tax deductions

Owner Operators and contract drivers can claim tax deductions on their income tax returns. If you get one or more 1099s, you can submit itemized deductions. Any write-off would need proof of payment, meaning you must save all receipts. The following are the top deductions that relate to owning and operating a truck business:

• Truck payments. Truck drivers can write off vehicle depreciation and loan interest accumulated. Additional vehicle costs qualify as tax deductions, including registration payments, fuel, and truck maintenance.
• Mileage. The IRS permits either a standard mileage rate deduction or a vehicle expense deduction. Tolls and parking fees may also qualify as a write-off.
• Insurance payments. Any insurance premiums related to your business can act as a write-off. Types of insurance related to a trucking company include commercial liability, cargo insurance, and property liability.  
• Education. You can claim CDL programs as a tax deduction on your taxes. The IRS also accepts write-offs for licenses and permits.
• Travel. For non-local drivers, you may list a certain amount of travel expenses on your taxes. Included travel expenses are lodging, meals, and laundry.
• Association dues. Remember to list any union or association dues as a deduction for truck drivers. If you subscribe to any trade publications, you can include them in your tax return.
• Office supplies. Claim any electronics costs and office supplies related to your business on your tax return. Examples include GPS units, mobile phones, computers, CB radios, and stationery.
• Personal products and Trade-related tools or equipment. Many truckers need personal care products, including bedding, coolers, cleaning supplies, tool sets, and flashlights. An accountant can often include these items as well as itemized deductions.

Truck driving tax credits depend on your eligibility. Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, while tax credits lower your tax liability dollar for dollar. Examples of tax credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and American Opportunity Tax Credit.

Non-taxable truck driver expenses

Remember, you can’t write off non-business expenses on your taxes. You can’t deduct any clothing or gear purchased for personal use. Any mileage between your home and office isn’t a write-off either. Meals or travel expenses on vacation also don’t count toward your deductions. If you’re a contracted driver reimbursed by your client for any costs, they also won’t be included.

You should hire an accountant familiar with the industry to reduce the chance of filing in error or getting audited by the IRS. You'll be subject to penalties and fines if you’re audited and can’t provide supporting documentation. Keep all truck driving expense records for a minimum of three years before purging any records in case of an audit.

CDLjobs.com does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

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Written by: Kate Williams

July 31, 2024

As a professional truck driver, sooner or later you will have to stop at a weigh station. The Department of Transportation (DOT), Department of Motor Vehicles, or other transportation officers monitor these stops to ensure that truck weight is not causing damage to America's roadways or other infrastructure, such as bridges. You may regard this obligation as an inconvenience, but weigh stations serve an invaluable purpose to ensure the safety of everyone on the road, including truck drivers.

Understanding the DOT's truck weigh station rules and procedures can help you to be prepared for what is coming and help prevent a minor inconvenience from turning into a major one.

When Must trucks stop at a weigh station?

As you drive along the interstate, be sure you look for signs that indicate when there is a weigh station ahead. The signs will give you the information you need regarding whether the station is open or closed. If it is closed, you are not required to stop. If it is open, there will probably also be a sign indicating the speed limit that you need to observe upon your approach.

There may be other trucks already in line at the weigh station. If so, you will have to practice good weigh station etiquette: join the line and wait your turn. Follow the signs on how to go through the weigh station or the instructions given to you by the transportation officers. It is very important that you observe the posted speed limit as you drive over the scale, as well as weigh station rules that relate to stopping and/or slowing. Failure to do so may result in unnecessary delays and inconvenience for everyone.

What do Weigh Stations Check For?

One of the most important purposes of a weigh station is to determine whether or not the vehicle is overloaded. Trucks at a weigh station may be assessed by the axle, or the whole vehicle may be measured. Some weigh stations have rolling scales that allow you to keep the vehicle in motion while it is being weighed. Other scales require you to stop. If your vehicle is found to be over the weight limit, you may be waylaid at the station until arrangements can be made for another truck to take on the excess.

The next step at a weigh station is the inspection of your equipment, including a check of your electronic logging device (ELD) to ensure compliance with Hours of Service regulations. If the inspection uncovers any equipment that is missing or faulty, a more detailed inspection will have to take place. Similarly, a problem with your log data can also cause significant delays. However, if everything is in order, the weighing and inspection should not take long at all. In the interest of keeping your log accurate, personnel at the weigh station will enter your DOT number into a computer system and perform a check of your safety rating.

Weigh station officials may also conduct a more thorough inspection of your vehicle's equipment to ensure it is in safe working order. Equipment that may be subjected to a safety inspection includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Brakes
• Fuel tanks
• Kingpin
• Rims/wheels
• Springs
• Tires
• Tubing/hoses

Additionally, inspectors may also check to make sure that the vehicle is not leaking fluids, such as antifreeze, oil, or fuel. A truck that fails the inspection may be taken off the road and placed out of service until the issue is sufficiently remedied.

WHY IS THE INSPECTION NECESSARY?

Most states require trucks and commercial vehicles that are over 10,000 pounds to stop at open weigh stations along their route. Federal law mandates that a loaded truck cannot weigh more than 80,000 pounds. Exceptions are sometimes granted if the load cannot be broken down and separated. However, these exceptions expire upon delivery of the cargo.

Trucks that are overloaded pose a particular hazard on U.S. highways, both to their drivers and to other motorists. Even under the best possible road conditions, a truck weighing more than 80,000 pounds is more difficult to control. Safe operation can become even more difficult if the conditions are not favorable. Excess weight puts pressure on the tires, increasing the possibility of a blowout. An overweight truck may be more likely to roll over, and stopping distance is increased when a truck is overloaded, making collisions with other vehicles more likely.

Can I avoid Weigh Station Rules?

Technological advancements addressing commercial vehicle safety now include virtual weigh stations, functioning through either transponders or smartphone/tablet enabled applications. These systems weigh trucks in motion and transmit that data in real time to a monitoring system, rewarding eligible carriers with respectable safety scores. While most drivers are allowed to bypass the traditional weigh station requirements, including mobile inspections, the systems have the capacity to instruct any commercial vehicle to report to the weigh station if deemed necessary.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON'T STOP AT A WEIGH STATION?

Unless you are lucky enough to have virtual technology granting your bypass, when driving a commercial vehicle, the law requires that you stop at an open weigh station whenever you come upon one. The penalties for failing to do so vary by state. You may lose your commercial driver's license, and in a few jurisdictions, you could even face jail time.

How to go through a Weigh Station More Smoothly

Now that you know what a weigh station checks for, the best thing you can do is perform a pre-check inspection before you set out. While problems can arise on the road, ensuring that your load weight is under the legal limits and that everything is in order at the beginning of the trip can help prevent delays later.

Additionally, be sure that you are polite and professional in all your interactions with weigh station personnel. Becoming rude or belligerent won't get you through the weigh station any faster, but it can make the experience unpleasant for everyone.

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Written by: Kate Williams

June 21, 2024

Despite all your best efforts to avoid getting sick, you just can't deny it any longer, the cold and flu season has caught up to you. No matter how you cut it, being sick stinks! 

Your head hurts, your nose is running, you can’t concentrate, and all you want to do is curl up in bed and fall asleep. When you’re sick, it’s certainly not the best time to be a commercial truck driver, a profession that demands unwavering attention to detail.

If you get a cold or flu, how can you kick the sickness fast? Use these simple tips to get yourself healthy faster.

Strategies to Beat a Cold or Flu Fast

First things first. If you get sick, you need to determine whether you have a common cold or the flu. While symptoms can overlap, a cold will generally include sneezing, coughing, and a sore throat; the flu will bring chills, a fever, and body aches. Once you know which one is causing your sickness, you can move on to solving the problem.

1. Hydrate Your Body
Experts believe that staying hydrated is the #1 way to kick a cold or flu. Sipping hot liquids like tea or warm water can help relieve your sore throat and stomach aches, and adding honey to the liquid can also help sooth a cough. Ginger drinks also help with stomach aches.

2. Good, Old-Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
Eating chicken noodle soup when you’re sick isn’t just an old myth; it’s actually rooted in sound scientific information. Chicken noodle soup holds cysteine, an essential amino acid that is released from chicken when cooked. Cysteine has many benefits, including fighting sickness, and the warm liquids and vegetables in chicken noodle soup are easy on an upset stomach.

3. Sleep It Off
Everyone knows that rest is vital when you’re sick with a cold or flu. While the daily recommended amount is around eight hours, getting extra sleep while you’re sick can jumpstart your immune system. Sacrificing a few hours for sleep will pay off when you wake up healthy and rejuvenated.

4. Find Over-the-Counter Medication
Depending on what symptoms you have, there are many over-the-counter medications that can help you get well. Talk with a pharmacist to find the best medications to kick your symptoms.

5. Know When to Call it Quits
We’d all love to keep working through our colds, but you need to know when to take a day off. There is no shame in calling in sick, so be honest about your symptoms and know when you need a break. If your cold is getting worse or if it has been hanging around for more than a week, it’s probably wise to take some time away from your trucking job.

6. Know When to See a Doctor
Sometimes staying home isn’t enough. Sometimes you need to see a doctor. If you have a fever above 101.5, shaking chills, bloody mucus, or abnormal shortness of breath, see your doctor as soon as you can.

The Top Trucking Companies Are Waiting for You

Many trucking companies need hard-working, reliable commercial truck drivers just like you.

Visit CDLjobs.com today to learn more about our excellent opportunities in the trucking industry. The right position is waiting, so stop by today!

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Written by: Kate Williams

June 01, 2024

Truck drivers make up an important part of the American economy. Their role in logistics and the economy at large may be invisible to many. What's not invisible, though, is the sheer number of large trucks on the road, from flatbeds to traditional semi-trailers, box trucks, and custom carriers for livestock and heavy machinery. With increased traffic comes the risk of motor vehicle accidents and the need to address seat belt safety.

With the number of drivers carrying goods for stores, factories, and supply line shipments, it's no surprise that about 500,000 crashes each year involve commercial trucks of one kind or another. While recent reports show the number of deaths from these trucking accidents is down considerably from historical statistics, in 2022, 4,764 people died in accidents with large trucks.

• 17 percent of deaths involved truck occupants
• 66 percent were occupants of cars or other passenger vehicles
• 16 percent of deaths involved pedestrians, bicyclists, or other motorists

Its important to note that passenger and large truck occupant deaths in crashes have declined significantly during the data collection period from 1975 through 2009, and death rates have remained relatively stable since 2009. The rising concern for and promotion of seat belt safety protocols is attributed to the lowered accident death rates. 

Seat Belt Use Saves Lives

If you drive a truck for a living, you need to buckle up to help reduce your chances of injury or death. The good news is that seat belt use is and has been on the rise for some time. The implementation of primary enforcement seat belt penalties across much of the nation has been credited with increasing seat belt use and reducing traffic deaths. Research shows seat belt use by front-seat passengers rose from about 71 percent in 2000 to 91.6 percent in 2022.

Those numbers also show that regardless of the number of accidents over the years, about half of all fatalities involve people who are not wearing seat belts. In 2009, drivers and passengers who skipped the seat belt made up 53% of all accident deaths. In 2022, that number was still nearly 50%, but studies have shown the safety benefits for truck drivers are even greater than for drivers in passenger vehicles.

• Among front-seat passengers and drivers, seat belt use leads to a 45% reduction in fatality risk and a 50% reduction in serious injury
• Drivers who don't use seat belts are 30 times more likely to be ejected from the vehicle during a crash
• Roughly 75% of those who are ejected during a crash die from the injuries
• Men are more likely to die when unrestrained than women, with a death rate about 4-5% higher than the average when gender is discounted

Another important point is how seat belt enforcement helps efforts to increase passenger safety. While it can be inconvenient to be stopped for a safety check, states that have rigorous enforcement programs have a 9% higher rate of seat belt use than those without them, and the national rate of 90.7% represents the average across both high enforcement and low enforcement states. That means if you are driving in a state that's less rigorous about its enforcement, you're more likely to be surrounded by at-risk drivers and passengers.

Analyzing the Numbers

While seat belt safety has been growing as a public concern, it's important to realize that it's not the only safety measure that is important. The number of deaths due to accidents that involve large trucks is generally down since 1981, but it is not linear. From 2009-2015, the number of deaths was down significantly compared to those in the years since, although both sets of numbers are well below the average for most years from 1991-2008. That mirrors the rise and fall of the national accident rate.

What is important to note is that while the number of fatal accidents was lower in those years, the likelihood of fatality among unrestrained drivers was higher.

So, what caused the decrease in fatalities among unrestrained drivers? No doubt some credit belongs to the innovations in safety technology since then, but it's also worth noting that the increase in safety belt use can be credited with a lot of the reduction. The more people wear them, the less likely it is that the total number of fatalities connected to a lack of use will remain high.

What Can Truck Drivers Do to Encourage Seat Belt Safety?

The best way to help increase everyone's safety on the road is to set a great example. When you buckle up, you not only serve as a role model for less experienced driving professionals, but you also serve as one to the kids and young adults in passenger vehicles who literally look up to you as they pass you on the highway.

Of the more than 4,700 fatalities involving large trucks in 2022, 823 deaths involved truck occupants. You can help reduce that number while setting a good example.

Safe drivers are also in greater demand throughout the workforce as trucking companies continue to grapple with a shortage of drivers across the country. If you are a truck driver with an excellent safety record, there may be a better trucking job available to you.

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Written by: Rob Cook

May 23, 2024

In many ways, truckers form the backbone of our society by ensuring the seamless flow of essential goods across vast distances. From groceries to medical supplies and everything in between, truckers are indispensable to nearly every aspect of our daily lives. However, the trucking industry is changing. The demands of modern society require that we work smarter, not harder. Recent developments in advanced technologies promise to reduce the strain on truckers while increasing efficiency and improving performance.

The Role of Advanced Technologies in Trucking

Advanced technologies are transforming the world of long-haul trucking and logistics. From the trucks themselves to the intelligent systems that truckers rely on, technology will have a profound effect on the trucking industry, significantly improving both safety and efficiency.

Technology is not new to the trucking industry. Since December 2017, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has mandated that all commercial trucks be equipped with electronic logging devices or ELDs. A replacement for paper driving logs, ELDs capture data on hours of service, miles driven, geographic location, and more. Many commercial trucks are also outfitted with event data recorders (also called the black box). But advanced technology aims to go a step further; instead of capturing information about the conditions leading up to a crash, what if technology could help prevent crashes altogether?

In addition to improving safety, advanced technologies can also be deployed to make logistics more efficient and cost-effective. Transportation management systems (TMS) are a type of software designed to optimize supply chain logistics. TSM systems can determine the most efficient routes based on various factors like distance, traffic patterns, and delivery schedules. They can also help plan shipments based on comparison of carrier rates and service levels, allowing for the selection of the most cost-effective shipping methods. Advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence further optimize procurement and fulfillment by analyzing large quantities of data.

Together, these technological tools help to make trucking safer, smarter, and more efficient.

Automation and self-driving trucks

One of the most dramatic changes in trucking comes in the form of autonomous vehicle technology. Transportation is one of the most dangerous occupations in the U.S., with motor vehicle collisions ranking #1 in fatal workplace injuries. The development of autonomous vehicles is poised to change all that, however, by reducing the number of truck crashes that occur. Multiple companies such as Tesla, Aurora, TuSimple, Gatik, and Embark are currently engaged in the development of self-driving trucks with varying degrees of autonomy, highlighting the substantial potential of autonomous trucking to enhance safety and efficiency within the logistics industry.

Even if entirely self-driving trucks are not yet part of our reality, numerous automated safety features are designed to mitigate the risk of human error. Sophisticated safety features like those available through Volvo Active Driver Assist, enable truck drivers to better avoid collisions. For example, Volvo uses cameras and radar technology to deploy collision warnings, lane departure alerts, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot detection.

Impact of data analytics on route optimization

Big data and unprecedented computing power are transforming business at every level, and transportation and logistics is no exception. By leveraging vast amounts of data and sophisticated analytical tools, companies can now predict, analyze, and optimize the routes taken by their fleets with unprecedented precision.

Data analytics enables the analysis of numerous variables affecting transportation, such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, road closures, and construction work. By processing this information in real time, logistics companies can identify the fastest and most efficient routes for their vehicles. This not only reduces delivery times but also increases the number of deliveries that can be made within a given period.

Fuel consumption represents one of the most significant expenses in the trucking industry. Through route optimization, vehicles can avoid congested routes and take shorter or faster paths, significantly reducing fuel consumption and, consequently, operational costs. Optimized routing also contributes to sustainability efforts by reducing the distance traveled and, therefore, the carbon footprint of transportation activities. Less time on the road means lower emissions.

Benefits of Advanced Technologies for Truckers

There are numerous benefits truckers can reap from these advanced technologies.

Improved maintenance, less downtime - Remote diagnostics can give real-time insights about a truck’s health and performance, and help to address possible breakdowns before they occur. This kind of proactive approach not only helps keep drivers safe behind the wheel but also reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns which can cause expensive delays. This also means more efficient maintenance and repair processes and fewer emergency roadside calls.

Safety - Advanced driver assistance features and the development of fully autonomous trucks can mitigate human errors and reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

Increased efficiency - Autonomous trucks can operate around the clock without the need for breaks or rest periods, leading to improved efficiency and faster delivery times. Route optimization software and GPS tracking allow for more efficient route planning, avoiding traffic congestion and reducing fuel consumption. This not only saves time but also increases the number of deliveries a trucker can make, enhancing overall productivity.

Truck driver quality of life - Autonomous technology has the potential to improve the working conditions and overall experience for truckers. Instead of spending long hours behind the wheel, drivers can focus on monitoring the vehicle's operations, handling exceptional situations, and engaging in other tasks that add value to their work. Furthermore, more accurate scheduling and route optimization can lead to more predictable work hours.

Industry Adoption and Future Outlook

Understandably, many truck drivers may feel concerned that autonomous trucks and related technology will replace human drivers, making them virtually obsolete. However, a more likely outcome is that these kinds of technologies will not replace truckers, but will redefine their job duties and working conditions. The shift is well-timed, as the industry reports a massive driver shortage. The adoption of advanced technologies will require reskilling and upskilling of the workforce to adapt to new roles and responsibilities. Companies will need to invest in training programs to ensure a smooth transition.

While we’re not seeing completely driverless trucks on the nation’s highways just yet, experts say that technology is not far in the future. Regulators will need to act quickly to catch up with advancements in technology that shape the operation of motor carriers. Continued collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulators will be essential to address safety concerns and establish clear guidelines for the use of advanced technologies.

And of course, technology is only going to continue to advance. AI and machine learning algorithms will play a crucial role in optimizing route planning, predictive maintenance, and driver assistance systems, leading to greater operational efficiencies. Emerging technologies such as blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) are expected to play a more significant role in enhancing supply chain visibility, transparency, and security.

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Written by: Kate Williams

April 22, 2024

When you pursue a career in trucking, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is whether you want to work in long-haul or short-haul trucking. So what's the difference?

Short-haul trucking jobs involve shorter trips – within about a 150-mile radius – whereas long-haul truck drivers cover further distances. Take a look at the pros and cons of both types of trucking jobs, and decide which is right for you.

Truck Types

One of the biggest differences between short-haul and long-haul truckers is the type of rig they drive. Short-haul truckers operate smaller vehicles that are easier to operate on city roads, while long-haul truckers drive tractor-trailers that carry big loads and have cabs with plenty of room to stretch out.

Time on the Road

If you have a family, a house, or other commitments in your hometown, you need to anticipate what your schedule will look like as a trucker. Most short-haul truckers essentially work local trucking jobs. That means they put in a full day of trucking in their area, and then they head home for the night.

Long haul truckers find that their trucking jobs occupy much more time on the road, and they may drive with a partner. Many keep regular weekly or monthly schedules, and they might return home over the weekend or every couple of weeks. During the week, they can look forward to getting some rest in their cabs.

Job Duties

As a long-haul trucker, you spend most of your time covering long distances in a specific region or cross-country. You'll only make deliveries every few days, after driving hundreds or thousands of miles. When you arrive at your destination, you'll coordinate unloading with the customer and complete paperwork to document your delivery or pickup.

As a short-haul driver, you'll make multiple pickups and deliveries each day. While you'll spend some time on the road, a big chunk of your day will include loading, unloading, and coordinating tasks with customers.

Average Salary

One of the reasons many drivers opt for long-haul trucking is that it tends to pay more. According to the 2023 median pay statistics published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), short-haul drivers earn about $42,470 per year.

Instead of a standard hourly rate, a long-haul truck driver's salary is typically based on a per-mile rate plus bonuses. The BLS estimates that in 2023 heavy tractor-trailer drivers earned an average of $54,320 per year, and those at the top end of the spectrum earned nearly $77,000 per year.

Typical Expenses

For short-haul drivers, on-the-job expenses tend to be minimal. You might spend a few dollars on a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, but you can keep those costs very low if you're on a budget.

In contrast, long-haul drivers' expenses tend to be much higher. Since you're spending days or weeks at a time away from home, you can expect to spend money on meals, snacks, showers, and even a comfortable bed once in a while. If you're committed to long-haul trucking and don't need to maintain a home, you might be able to cut costs by not having a home base.

Lifestyles differ by long-haul or short-haul

The drivers' lifestyle between short-haul and long-haul trucking jobs can vary significantly. If you want a job that requires physical activity, a standard daily schedule, and the ability to clock out and go home at the end of the day, short-haul trucking is probably the right choice for you.

If you're looking for freedom on the open road, the ability to see the country, and long stretches away from home, long-haul trucking is a great option. Since the job is what you make of it, you can achieve a great quality of life on either career path.

Now that you know the pros and cons of short-haul and long-haul trucking, your next question is probably, "Where can I find trucking jobs near me?" Start doing some research on trucking companies hiring drivers and find a position that best suits your needs.

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Written by: National Motor Freight Traffic Association

April 10, 2024

In today's business world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. As technology advances, so does the number of cybercrimes.

The threat that hackers represent to the supply chain, or the flow of goods and necessities, is less well-known than attacks against individuals, the finance sector, and a range of other businesses, including the shipping and trucking sectors.

Trucking companies may protect themselves from cybercrime by arming their management teams with the following information.

Common Attacks & How Trucking Companies Prevent Them

Regardless of the cybercriminal's goal or the industry they are targeting, the majority of hackers employ some combination of these techniques to obtain unauthorized access to a computer system:

Malware

Hackers use software that gives them access to the system so they can steal, change, or delete data. Many trucking companies make use of strong anti-virus and anti-malware software to protect against this type of attack.

Phishing

This is a sort of social engineering where the hacker sends malicious emails with links to websites that, when accessed, steal crucial information, like usernames and passwords. Educating employees against common phishing attack strategies is one of the best ways to address this problem.

Software intrusions

Cybercriminals may employ third-party software or applications that have harmful executable code embedded. When a company uses the program to conduct business, the hacker has access to the proprietary system that the industry utilizes. Trucking companies should only make use of software and apps from trusted vendors, and ensure that these application receive regular security updates

Supply chain protection benefits more than just the companies involved. Cyberattacks on fleet vehicles frequently result in the theft or damage of products, or they can stop drivers from finishing their deliveries. Keeping this in mind, let's look at some typical strategies for stopping these kinds of assaults in the trucking sector.

Common Precautions to Protect Fleet Information

Strong passwords and two-factor authentication

Having a strong password that is frequently changed every couple of months still remains one of the best ways to combat hacker attempts at intrusion. Another line of security is to employ two-factor authentication, which prevents a hacker from using your password without the second device required for access.

Protect your telematic equipment

While many people consider safeguarding their internal IT systems, many forget to secure the trucks themselves. Fleet managers use telematic tracking and diagnostic systems to monitor the effectiveness and performance of their vehicles, but these systems are also vulnerable to hacking.

Test the system often

At least once a year, qualified cybersecurity specialists should perform routine penetration testing. By frequently using the same programs that hackers will use, these professionals will test the system to see how quickly unauthorized users can access it.

Backup, update and protect

Regularly performing secure backups of all systems and fleet and client data is advised. All communication and tracking software should also be updated regularly. All systems should be guarded by strong antivirus and anti-malware software.

Train employees

Every employee should receive frequent training on the value of safe practices, like using two-factor authentication and resetting passwords. Additionally, drivers must be warned against discussing routes or cargo on unprotected CB channels or other unreliable communication channels. In the event that the primary communication channel is hacked, a backup plan should be in place.

Trucking Cybersecurity of the Future

With cybercriminals continuing to pose threats to the trucking industry, no doubt in the future trucking companies may need to employ emerging technologies such as A.I. to secure fleets from hacker intrusion. Making use of automation where possible to remove the human factor from social engineering attacks is also a possibility. The evolution of blockchain technology is also the future of data security and encryption for many industries, including trucking. Future data and privacy laws governing emerging technology will also likely affect the trucking industry.

One of the pillars of a strong economy is the strength of the supply chain and the capacity to transport goods and services to their necessary locations safely and securely. The ultimate objective of cybercriminals is to undermine communities by disrupting foundational services and the supply chain.