Industry News & Tips for Truck Drivers

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Written by: Kate Williams

May 16, 2017

There's no denying it. Driving a truck is one of the loneliest jobs out there, and many times, you're left to your own devices for entertainment and conversation. The thought of bringing your spouse with you on the road may sound nice or it may totally paralyze you with total anxiety!

However, if you are mentally and physically prepared using these tips, a spouse rider program may actually make your trip more enjoyable and give the two of you some quality time to enjoy each other's companionship.

1. Know Before You Go

Before you decide to plan your trip, it's important to check with your employer to see if they have a spouse rider program. If you're fresh out of driving school or new to the company, the answer may be no. Most companies require six months to a year of driving before they allow you to take your spouse or anyone else on the trip.

If spending time with your spouse is of the utmost importance, you may want to, at least at first, find a carrier that allows you time off on weekends. Once you're vested in the company, then you can approach your carrier about their ride program and ask to take your wife on the road.

2. Try Teaming Up

One of the more lucrative ways that truckers are making extra cash while cutting living expenses is teaming up with their spouse. According to research from CNBC and trucking firms such as Schneider and Swift Transportation, the number of female drivers is growing to meet the demands of the industry. Over the next three to five years, the shortage of truck drivers could rise to as many as 150,000 to 200,000.

Because of this shortfall, many companies are now targeting women by offering excellent benefits such as higher pay and a 401(k) plan. Ellen Vole, the chief executive of the Women in Trucking Association states, "As a truck driver, you make the same amount of money as your male peers, because you either get paid by the mile or the load of the percentage. So gender is not an issue in pay in the truck industry for drivers." 

In addition, with team driving, having an extra set of hands is perfect for using the radio to communicate, navigating unfamiliar areas, handling repairs, and delivering goods in a shorter time.

3. Bring Extra Entertainment

Even if your soulmate has always been able to talk to you until the sun comes up, sometimes it's nice to have a break in the conversation.

During these spans, you'll probably need some entertainment for your spouse. Don't leave home without books or an e-reader, games, an MP3 player, or a tablet.. After the break, you'll find your chats more engaging, fun, and personal.

4. Don't Forget the Necessities

If your spouse isn't a driver, make sure that he or she doesn't leave the house without the essentials needed on the road. Most truck stops don't provide any type of toiletries, so if your spouse needs to shave, shower, or just get fresh and clean, you need to bring your own shampoo, soap, and other supplies.

If you forget to bring these items with you, you'll be subject to the steep prices that truck stops tend to charge. With your own stuff, you not only save some cash, but you're presentable and comfortable throughout the trip.

5. Get Out of the Truck

When you're traveling all over the country, don't forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Sure, you have another driver or person to make the trip go by faster, but there's so much more to do if you have some extra time allowance in your driving schedule. Many state parks offer places for you to park and enjoy a picnic or take a few pictures. It makes the trip fun and it's the perfect place to document your travels.

Taking your spouse on your trucking route is a wonderful way to keep a happy marriage while enjoying the company of someone you love. Follow these tips, and you're sure to have the time of your life.

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Written by: Kate Williams

April 17, 2017

All truck driving jobs have their own challenges and opportunities. If you are considering dedicated trucking jobs, read on to learn the benefits of these truck driving jobs and whether they may be right for you.

What Is Dedicated Truck Driving?

Many truck drivers handle shipments and deliveries for a variety of companies and along different routes. This is a non-dedicated arrangement because your route details change. In fact, they could be different every day, whether you’re a regional driver or working over-the-road OTR trucking jobs.

Conversely, in a dedicated trucking job, you work the same routes and deliver to the same customers on a regular basis. For example, someone working dedicated trucking in Dallas may pick up a load from a Dallas area warehouse and deliver it to a customer in Lubbock, Texas. Then he or she would take another cargo load from Lubbock back to another customer in Dallas.

Advantages of Dedicated Truck Driving Jobs

Many truck drivers consider dedicated trucking jobs to be the ultimate career goal. It can be, in many ways, a chance to reap the benefits of truck driving with a more predictable lifestyle.

• Predictability: The main difference between dedicated and non-dedicated trucking driving is that the former is more predictable. You drive the same routes every time you get behind the wheel. You don’t have to worry about traveling along unfamiliar roads or finding new places to stop for food, fuel and sleep.
• Customer Relationships: Another benefit of dedicated trucking jobs is that you get to know the customers you work with on a more personal level. You’ll see them more often and have a chance to build real relationships with them. This can make the job more meaningful and enjoyable.
• Regular Schedule: Along with predictable routes comes a regular schedule. You know when you are going to drive and when you will return home. Typically, dedicated truck driving jobs only require you to be on the road a couple of nights a week.
• Family Time: The regular schedule and limited nighttime driving make it easier to make room for family time. One of the most common struggles of truck drivers with families is not being able to spend enough time at home. Moving to dedicated trucking jobs is a great way to overcome this.
• Budget Consistency: Some truck driving jobs can be inconsistent in terms of pay because sometimes there are plenty of high-paying routes and sometimes there aren’t. Dedicated trucking jobs come with a fairly consistent paycheck. This makes budgeting for truck drivers who are saving for home ownership, covering family needs and taking time off significantly easier.

Beyond these advantages, there is also the opportunity for career success. There is plenty of growth on the horizon for dedicated trucking jobs.

Drawbacks of Dedicated Truck Driving Jobs

Dedicated jobs sound pretty great. However, you may be asking: what is dedicated trucking’s catch?

The main challenge of dedicated trucking jobs is that they don’t often offer long-haul experience. Generally, they are only regional routes. Therefore, it can be difficult to switch over to be an OTR driver. Although OTR driving is not for everyone, it does offer some lucrative opportunities and is often the highest-paying trucking jobs.

Additionally, many of the advantages of dedicated trucking can be drawbacks in some people’s eyes. For example, staying closer to home and having a consistent schedule means less freedom. Similarly, there are fewer opportunities to visit and see new places.

Dedicated truck driving jobs also don’t offer many opportunities to pick up extra work. Some truck drivers like this flexibility to help them deal with significant expenses.

Should You Choose Dedicated Truck Driving? 

Dedicated trucking can be a great career opportunity, but it isn’t right for everyone. If you want a stable job with consistent hours and pay, it may be a great choice. It is a popular path for people with families they need to support both financially and with their time and love.

However, some drivers want to cover a lot of miles and enjoy the flexibility and freedom of the road. In this case, dedicated trucking may not be the right fit. Similarly, if you want to take home the biggest paycheck possible, dedicated truck driving jobs may not be the right choice.

Dedicated trucking can be a good choice for many people. Consider the pros and cons and determine if it is the right move for you. 

Find the Best Trucking Jobs For You

Whether you want to work as a dedicated, over-the-road or any other type of truck driver, you can learn more about the benefits of truck driving jobs here. There are plenty of trucking companies looking for drivers like you, even if you are looking for your first job after training. Find the best jobs for your lifestyle today.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 29, 2017

If you have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, or Reserve, you should seriously consider one of the rewarding trucking jobs for military veterans.

Many trucking companies across the country make it a priority to hire veterans. By doing so, they not only enhance the life of people returning from service, they also strengthen their companies by hiring high-quality individuals with a record of integrity, proven leadership abilities, and an understanding of the vital importance of teamwork, among other skills, .

Why Trucking is a Great Career for Military Veterans

Military veterans have unique skills and attributes that are useful in every possible industry, but these characteristics are especially important for a career as a trucker.

First and foremost, military veterans from every branch have a strong work ethic. Sailors, soldiers, and Marines all know the value of working incredibly hard on a daily basis. As a trucker, you have to be independent and self motivated, and military veterans rarely need prompting or motivation from managers and dispatchers.

They also have a deep appreciation and understanding of teamwork. Military service calls for the highest level of teamwork, with everyone performing their job perfectly. Failure in the military is not accepted, as the team is counting on each and every individual to do their job to achieve their objectives.

For these reasons and more, trucking is one of the best jobs for military veterans. Combining both individual dedication and a respect for teamwork, military veterans are an excellent fit within the trucking industry, and many trucking companies make it a priority to hire these individuals. 

Companies with Trucking Jobs for Military Veterans

There are many companies that offer trucking jobs for military veterans, but these are three of the biggest businesses that have a strong reputation for hiring America’s vets. If you are a veteran, there is a good chance that one of these companies has an opportunity waiting for you.

Melton Truck Lines

Melton takes great pride in being recognized as a recipient of the prestigious Gold Military Friendly® Employer Award for 2024. For more than ten years, the Military Friendly® ratings have been the benchmark for companies that prioritize positive employment and education outcomes for military personnel, transitioning veterans, and their families.

At Melton, we value the contributions of our military community, with over 30% of our employees having served in the armed forces. We actively seek to hire veterans and active-duty reservists because we understand the unique skills and qualities they bring to the table. With extensive programs and resources tailored specifically for veterans, Melton stands out as one of the top truck driving companies for those who have served.

Roehl Transport

Roehl Transport offers multiple programs for military veterans. The Roehl Honor Program and two-year apprenticeship offer veterans a fast-track to a truck driving career, using GI Bill benefits. These programs provide paid, hands-on training to help veterans obtain their commercial driver's license (CDL) and transition smoothly into the industry. With seven terminal locations, including facilities near Atlanta, Chicago, and Phoenix, Roehl prioritizes its drivers' needs.

Schneider

This trucking company has also been repeatedly ranked among the most military-friendly businesses in the country. Schneider works with drivers to convert military experience into excellent pay and benefits, and offer guaranteed home time for drills and annual training. If you’re using your VA benefits to pay for truck driving school, Schneider also offers tuition reimbursement.

Find the Right Trucking Jobs for Military Veterans

Let us help you find a position in the trucking industry. Whether you are retiring soon, awaiting deployment, or need employment after returning from active service, we can help find jobs for military veterans in the trucking industry.

Visit CDLjobs.com today and let us help you start a satisfying career no matter what your military experience.

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Written by: Kate Williams

February 13, 2017

Self-driving vehicles are the next big thing in the automotive world, and technological advances are getting us closer to that reality every day. While we often picture this new technology in a passenger car, our first self-driving vehicles might actually be trucks. Yet this raises an important new question; who's liable in an accident with a self-driving truck?

First Commercial Delivery Using a Self-Driving Truck

In October 2016, Anheuser-Busch and Uber Technologies teamed up to send a tractor-trailer stocked with beer 120 miles down I-25 in Colorado. While this type of delivery normally isn't anything groundbreaking, the fact that there wasn't a driver behind the wheel made this venture the first commercial delivery using a self-driving truck and a giant step forward in self-driving technology. Although the autonomous drive only occurred on the interstate and the driver was in the sleeper cabin to supervise the truck, Uber says the test run shows self-driving trucks are possible.

A Self-Driving Car's First Accident

In February 2016, one of Google's self-driving vehicles moved into the center lane to avoid a pile of sandbags around a storm drain and collided with the side of a bus. In the accident account, the test driver reports seeing the bus but thinking it would slow down to let the vehicle in.

This is the first time a self-driving car was in a crash that wasn't caused by human error from other drivers. It wasn't a serious incident, but it raises a complicated question; when you have a computer behind the wheel instead of a human, who takes responsibility for a collision? Is it the car owner, the car manufacturer, or perhaps even the car itself?

Who's Responsible in an Accident?

Policy experts point out that this changing technology means we need to rethink our laws on liability. Perhaps the trucking industry could turn to the car industry to help answer these liability questions. In 2015, Volvo said it would pay for any damage or injuries caused by its self-driving system, set to debut in 2020.

The idea is that the car manufacturer's self-driving technology is vastly better at predicting and avoiding crashes than a human, so there's little to no risk to cover the liability. In fact, a study done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that vehicles with an automatic braking system reduce rear-end collisions by around 40 percent.

Robots as People

Another competing argument is that we need to rethink how we look at robots. Lawyer John Frank Weaver says we should consider robots as people, and therefore as insurable entities. As an example, Weaver offers a scenario where a self-driving car swerves to avoid hitting a deer, yet hits another car. He argues the car is at fault and should be responsible for damages. He also says that if we're going to have robots take over tasks that are normally assigned to people, we need to start recognizing them as people so that they take on liability.

Accepting Changing Technologies

Along with changing liability laws, there's one other large hurdle self-driving vehicles have to get over: skeptical buyers. A recent study done by AAA reports that 75 percent of U.S. drivers say they're afraid to get behind the wheel a self-driving car. Yet Navistar vice president of marketing Stephen Gilligan points out that people never trust new technology at first. He says when anti-lock brakes first came out, people didn't think you could "just slam the brakes down and the system would do a better job of stopping you," but now, "people are comfortable with that technology."

Like other advancements in technology, these changing times require us to look at our liability laws and decide if adjustments are in order.

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Written by: Kate Williams

December 19, 2016

Long haul trucking requires time away from family all year-round, but the challenges of truck driving jobs are more pronounced around the holidays. Don't let seasonal worries drag you down or distract you on the road. Stay focused, plan ahead, and make the most of the holidays no matter where you're spending them.

Keep in Touch Creatively

One of the biggest challenges of driving truck over the holidays is the time away from friends and family. You may miss some traditional celebrations due to overtime offerings that are too good to pass up. Find creative ways to keep in touch when you're on the road. Maintaining that connection with your family and establishing a healthy work-life balance is critical for your mental health.

Consider writing small holiday notes for your kids and stuffing them in an advent calendar, so they have a message from you every day of the month, even when you're not there. Skype and Facetime make it possible to both see and hear your family members as you're resting between certain legs of the journey. You can pick up holiday postcards from the various cities you pass through to give your family a little excitement when they check the mailbox. Find ways to make your travel fun for everyone.

Prepare for the Weather

The holidays can bring the onset of ice and snow in certain locales. If you're in a part of the country where this is a concern, make sure you're prepared for the complications of long haul trucking in winter weather. Conduct a thorough inspection before you head out, including tire pressure, fluids, and windshield wipers. Make sure you're using the right oil for the season.

Keep an emergency kit of essentials with you at all times. This should include a blanket, bottled water, food, flashlight, battery-powered radio, first-aid kit, chains, flares, and jumper cables. If you're traveling from a warm climate to a cold one, make sure you take a jacket, boots, gloves, scarf, and hat, even though you may not need them when you leave.

Map Alternate Routes

Holiday drivers often get diverted from their intended route due to weather or accidents. Some cities also close off roads or change their routing to redirect the masses of holiday shoppers in certain areas and avoid congestion. Be prepared for some unexpected changes and map alternate routes.

Keep Your Mind Focused

It's easy to get distracted with long lists of holiday to-dos, but this is one of the worst things you can do while you're driving over the holidays. As the weather worsens and roads become congested with holiday shoppers, even an average trip will become more difficult. Make sure you can keep your head in the game by starting your holiday planning early.

When planning for next year, take care of gifts months ahead of time so that you don't have to fret over a last-minute trip. Ask family and friends to lay out their Christmas plans by the beginning of December at the latest so you can mark your calendar, make the necessary arrangements, and stay focused on what's in front of you while you're on the road.

Maintain Your Distance

Even if you're a whiz at winter driving, it's important to remember that other drivers on the road probably are not. Those you're sharing the highway with are often unfamiliar with winter weather conditions, distracted with thoughts of holiday stressors, or lost trying to find a new destination. Keep a little extra distance and watch for dangerous drivers around you.

Make the Most of your Holidays

Though you may miss a few days with your family while you're driving during the holiday season, you can still find ways to enjoy the celebration of time with those you love. Remember that there is no "right" way to celebrate any given event. Eliminate any self-imposed stress of trying to create the perfect holiday setting and make the most of whatever time you can carve out. Reschedule your celebrations, keep in touch from the road, and do what you can to contribute to the fun and festivity.

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Written by: Kate Williams

December 12, 2016

An oversized load presents a unique challenge for truck drivers. While they're more difficult to handle than standard loads, they also have several perks that make the job worthwhile. If you're looking for a way to add a challenging twist to your trip or make more money on the next haul, applying for oversized load driver jobs may offer everything you're after.

What Is an Oversized Load?

There are many different types of oversized loads. This term refers very generally to any load that's larger than the standard regulations. In general, oversized loads in the United States are those that are wider than 8 feet 6 inches and cannot be broken down into smaller segments. Though the specifics vary by state, most consider anything taller than 13 feet 6 inches oversized. If the load weighs 250,000 pounds or more, it's a super load.

Oversized loads generally consist of large items that are already constructed and therefore cannot be split into separate loads. However, there are a few states that permit oversized loads of items that are divisible. Some common examples of items that would be considered an oversized load include pre-built mobile homes, windmill propellers, multi-stage rockets, bridge beams, and industrial equipment.

Understanding Regulations Affecting Oversized load Driving Jobs

Oversize load permits are not issued by the federal government. Permits are handled by each state and regulations may vary when crossing a state line.  If you're operating out of a single state, you can get to know your local rules and adhere to them easily. However, if you're hauling oversized freight across state lines, the regulations can get tricky. For example, Alabama allows an overhang of 4' in the front, while Florida permits only 3'. Alabama permits just 66,000 pounds on tridem axles while Florida allows up to 69,000 pounds.

This example represents only a small handful of the differences you'll find among state regulations. If you're hauling oversized loads, you must familiarize yourself with all the rules and regulations for every state that you'll pass through, to make sure you're operating appropriately and carry the right permits.

Handling Specified Routes

Oversized loads can only travel on particular routes. The size of your load will determine where you can take it. As the truck driver responsible for this load, you'll need to map out your route carefully to make sure you're staying on highways that can handle the size of your trailer. Your route must include accessible gas stations and rest stops.

As you're planning the trip, you'll need to consider the added time your extended route may take and plan your driving accordingly to make sure you arrive on schedule. The hours-of-service rules that apply to standard truck driving are suspended for oversized loads. This is because it's considered dangerous to leave oversized loads unattended for too long. If you're driving an oversized load, you're exempt from the 30-minute break rule.

Oversized Load Drivers Enjoy Nice Perks

Oversized load trucking jobs are more challenging than standard truck driving because of the added size and weight that you're hauling. Drivers pulling flatbed trailers must be skilled in cargo securement. However, there are some distinctive perks to this job. Oversized load pay is generally higher, so the added challenge is appropriately compensated. You can also typically get an escort for these loads, which may ease some of the strain and even make for a more interesting trip. Pole cars and police cars can be hired to travel with you for certain loads, and are often a requirement in particular areas.

Keep these important points in mind as you're planning a trip with an oversized load to make sure you're properly prepared. With the right planning, oversized load drivers can enjoy a successful and rewarding career carrying this type of cargo.

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Written by: Kate Williams

November 15, 2016

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are mechanical equipment that record driving time for commercial motor vehicles. It is connected to the vehicle to capture data on its engine function, location, speed, miles driven, and more. The Hours of Service data is then transferred to a safety official. Under the ELD mandate, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that most commercial vehicles have an ELD.

So why are ELDs so important in the trucking industry?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) released a rule that requires trucks to use ELDs in December 2015 with December 2017 set as the deadline for truckers to comply. 

What exactly is the ELD Mandate, and why does it have so many professional truckers up in arms?

The ELD Mandate — What Is It?

The ELD mandate requires that trucks use a DOT-approved device that is hardwired to the vehicle's engine in order to log a driver's Record of Duty Status (RODS). This can ensure that drivers are complying with Hours of Service (HOS) requirements.

The rule will apply to almost everyone in the trucking industry, with a few exceptions. Drivers will be allowed to use a paper log for as many as eight days during a 30-day period. Also, anyone operating a commercial vehicle that was manufactured before 2000, as well as driveaway-towaway drivers, will not be required to use ELDs.

The mandate received mixed reactions from those in the trucking industry due to the various advantages and disadvantages below.

Advantages of Electronic Logging Devices

Many truckers have already abandoned traditional paper logs in favor of ELDs because of the safety advantages they offer. By keeping track of driver activities, fatigue and the mistakes that come with it can be reduced.

How vital is it to reduce driver fatigue?

According to information from the National Highway Safety Administration, drowsy driving on average caused 83,000 accidents and contributed to 37,000 injuries based on one four-year study. It has even been estimated that up to 6,000 deaths are caused each year by drowsy drivers. Commercial drivers are among those who are most likely to fall asleep behind the wheel.

The data that ELDs record can prove to be a valuable management tool, helping trucking companies to improve productivity and better handle scheduling issues. ELDs can also reduce paperwork, aiding the environment and saving time.

Disadvantages of ELDs

According to a survey by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), the ELD mandate is the biggest concern in the trucking industry.

Why is there such a high level of controversy around the ELD mandate?

One reason is that ELDs can present a significant cost for both independent drivers and small trucking companies. When ELDs were first introduced decades ago, it could cost thousands of dollars for a single device. However, concerns over price are not necessarily valid. According to one estimate, using an ELD will cost an average of about $500 per truck, per year. Many smartphones and tablets can even be used as ELDs, reducing the need to buy new equipment.

The biggest concern surrounding ELDs is that they may force a decrease in driving hours and thus hurt productivity. It could also lead to discomfort for drivers. Commenting on the mandate, one driver stated, "I will have no choice but to drive in traffic, adverse weather conditions, and/or while fatigued because I can't take a nap … because the clock is tick, tick, ticking away." Another driver said he wasn't sure if he would be able to stay in business after the mandate goes into effect.

ELDs are Here to Stay

Will the electronic logging device mandate truly improve safety on the roads, or will it prove to be more of a hindrance than anything else? The impact of electronic logging devices on the trucking industry will become much clearer after the mandate goes into effect at the end of 2017.

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Written by: Kate Williams

October 11, 2016

Becoming a truck driver gives you the keys to the open road, but before you can hit the road, you'll need to get a commercial driver's license (CDL). Learn how to get your CDL, the requirements you have to meet, and how to get a job once you earn your licensing.

Know the Federal CDL Eligibility Requirements

When you're getting ready to apply for a CDL, it's important to know that you have to meet both federal and state requirements. The federal requirements are the same for CDL drivers across the nation:

• Be 18 years or older for intrastate trucking
• Be 21 years or older for interstate trucking or for driving a truck with hazardous materials
• Have no criminal offenses on your record disqualifying you from earning a CDL

What are State Requirements to get Your CDL?

Next, you'll need to know your state's CDL requirements since your state is responsible for issuing your license. These vary but requirements typically include the following:

• Provide proof of identity
• Release your driving record dating back 10 years
• Prove that you meet medical qualifications for a CDL
• Pass a written and skills tests
• Pay a road test fee, which typically costs between $50 and $200
• Complete a professional training course

Keep in mind that you're allowed to hold just one CDL at a time. If you move across state lines or want to work in another state, you'll need to get familiar with the new state's requirements before transferring your CDL to your new location.

Pass Written Tests and Earn a CLP

Before you start driving a truck professionally, you'll need to earn a commercial learner's permit (CLP). You can do this by passing a written knowledge test for the CDL class of your choice. All states allow you to become licensed in the following classes:

• Class A: Gross vehicle weight rating (GWVR) over 26,000 pounds, with the vehicle being towed in excess of 10,000 pounds.
• Class B: GWVR over 26,000 pounds, with the vehicle being towed not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
• Class C: Commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.

When you earn your CLP, you'll also have the chance to get special licensing. This adds endorsements to your CDL and gives you license to drive certain kinds of commercial vehicles:

• H: Hazardous Materials
• N: Tank Vehicles
• P: Passenger Vehicles
• S: School Buses
• T: Double and Triple Trailers

Pass CDL Road Skills Test

After you've had your CLP for a minimum of 14 days, you can apply to get out on the road and take the CDL skills test. If you applied for endorsements, you may have to take another road test or two to complete the process.

If you need more practice, be sure to check your state's requirements. Most CLPs are valid for 60 to 180 days, so be sure to complete testing before your CLP expires.

Use Your CDL

Once you've passed the road skills test and met all other state and federal requirements, you can put your CDL to work. Use CDLjobs.com to search hundreds of CDL driver positions with respected trucking companies and find one that's a great fit for you.

Don't forget that you'll need to renew your CDL from time to time, typically every five years. As long as you renew it before it expires, you won't usually need to retake the written or road tests. Instead, you'll just have to pay the renewal fee before getting back on the road again.

Earning a CDL takes focus and skills and may even require you to enroll in professional classes. Once you have this qualification in your back pocket, however, you'll be eligible for CDL driver jobs across your state and ready to launch a lucrative new career.

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Written by: Kate Williams

October 04, 2016

Working as a truck driver can be rewarding and fun career. You get to see different parts of the country while enjoying independence and a nice paycheck. Of course, one potential downside is not seeing your loved ones and spending time at home as often as you would like. Here are some work life balance tips for truck drivers so they can stay positive and successful.

Relax in the Ways That Work for You

You may have five days off at a time or even three weeks (perhaps longer!). These are excellent opportunities to unwind and recharge, but today's technology does not always make that easy. Make it a point to put away the smartphones for an hour or two and connect on a genuine level with your friends and family.

It is also OK to take time for just yourself. Go for a hike, hit the water or lose yourself in a good book. Some truckers even like to volunteer or get involved in their community somehow. For example, distributing food at a homeless shelter keeps some truckers anchored in their community and fosters a greater sense of purpose.

Follow a Schedule for Staying in Touch

It's easy to take technology for granted. You think that loved ones will contact you whenever they have a few minutes or vice versa. Before you know it, several days have passed before you have spoken to your sweetheart or children, and you don't know what is going on in their lives. Many truck drivers set and follow schedules for video chats, phone calls, Facebook/social media and texts. That way, any relationship should not fall through the cracks.

Likewise, plan events with loved ones ahead of time for when you are home. For instance, you can tell your child, "We'll go to the park the day after I get home and throw the baseball around." It gives both of you something to look forward to and reinforces the connection you share.

Set Physical Goals

Trucking is a physically demanding job while also being sedentary. To keep as active as possible, set at least one fitness goal for yourself. If that goes well and you are feeling ambitious, you could set as many as three. These goals must be achievable. Make them practical and realistic, but they can be fun too!

There are plenty of gadgets and smartphone apps that can make fitness fun, or at least trackable. Fitness apps keep count of the number of steps you take, and there are apps for tracking calories and foods consumed. At least five days a week, try to run or weightlift for 30 minutes to an hour. You don’t need a full gym to stay in shape, there are also exercises you can do in your truck.

Give Yourself Food Options

Let's face it—the abundance of fast food restaurants, diners, truck stops and convenience stores don't make it easy to eat lean. Yes, healthy food may be on some menus, but these items are hard to find. Plus, they compete with goodies that tend to be cheaper and more tempting.

The good news is you don't need to give up on food you enjoy eating. However, do make it a point to stock up on healthy foods before you take off on a trip. For instance, you can pack vegetables, fruits, cold cuts and bottled water into your coolers or mini-fridge. Having healthy options on hand means that you are less likely to turn to other types of food when you're bored or desperately hungry.

Experiment with Entertainment

Audiobooks, podcasts and music keep you entertained on the road. Fortunately, there is information on nearly every topic imaginable, and you could learn a new language or start a new hobby. Is there a book that your child or spouse particularly loves? Listen to it, and you have something cool to discuss during a phone call or during the next time you are home.

Above all, go easy on yourself if you feel like you've backslid or aren't doing everything you should be. Rome was not built in a day, and it takes time to develop and stick to different habits. Moreover, these work life balance tips for truck drivers are not set in stone. You may need to experiment for a while before finding the right things that make you tick.

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Written by: Kate Williams

July 01, 2016

As you likely know, self-driving vehicles are becoming increasingly common. Automated trucks have many industry leaders concerned about the impact on the trucking industry. Although they have not yet made a major splash, self-driving trucks are not just a possibility in the far-off future. They are already a reality. In 2016, a fleet of trucks navigated across Europe. Chances are that self-driving semi trucks will play a big role in the trucking industry in the years to come.

The Benefits of Self-Driving Trucks

Over the last few years, the trucking industry has struggled with truck driver shortages, cost containment and accidents. Self-driving trucks are likely to alleviate some of these issues, like the reliance on drivers.

The American Trucking Association has predicted that the driver shortage will increase by 175,000 by 2024. That is a huge increase beyond the 48,000-driver shortage reported in 2015. Self-driving trucks can help lessen the shortage and enable trucking companies to run profitably.

Self-driving vehicles are better able to avoid accidents and ease congestion, especially once a large percentage of the vehicles on the road are automated. Most accidents are caused by human error, especially following behind vehicles too closely. Automated vehicles don’t make these types of mistakes. They also don’t get tired and need to stop for sleep.

Another important benefit of automation is that the truck can drive more efficiently, thus reducing emissions. The self-driving technology is also evolving along with electric vehicles, which are also more environmentally friendly.

It will take some time before the technology is fully perfected. However, it is getting very close. Trucks will likely benefit especially because they generally stick to highways and interstates. These roads are generally easier to navigate for self-driving vehicles.

Impact on Truck Drivers

Many fear that self-driving semi trucks will put a lot of truck drivers out of work. If a truck could operate completely autonomously, businesses would be able to slash costs for driver pay. As of 2018, there were nearly 2 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in the United States. If a large portion of those people lost their jobs, it would have a major impact on the economy.

However, the advent of self-driving trucks does not mean an end to the truck-driving profession. Currently, self-driving vehicles need a driver to be present in the case of an emergency. Many require the driver to periodically touch the steering wheel to confirm that he or she is paying attention. Freight that may be unpredicatble and require driver attention, such as the transport of livestock, may not lend itself well to complete driver-less automation.

Most manufacturers are focused on level-three automation. This is sufficient automation to drive without human input but still must have a driver for critical events. Additionally, some roads are not well-suited for automated vehicles and may require the presence of a human driver. Nonetheless, level-three automation reduces driver stress and exhaustion, making everyone safer.

It is likely that the technology will eventually advance to level-four automation, trucks that don’t need drivers. However, for the near term, there is still a need for drivers. This is partially due to regulatory hurdles involving  automated vehicles on public roads. Furthermore, the current technology may require additional training. Drivers who get that training may find themselves in higher demand than ever.

Truck Platooning Likely To Increase

Automated trucks can use wireless technology to communicate with each other. This is ideal for platooning. The first truck in the convoy sends data to the following trucks, allowing for more efficient operation. As mentioned above, each of these trucks needs a driver at present. However, they can operate with minimal input, especially when using platooning.

Truck platoons can operate more efficiently. They can also maintain a shared speed and reduce their impact on traffic congestion. The smarter the technology becomes, the more the trucks can optimize themselves for less wear and tear and reduced fuel consumption.

The technology may reach the point at which a driver can man the first vehicle and the remaining trucks run fully autonomously. This would reduce the demand for drivers. However, there is a massive shortage of drivers already, so that will have little impact on employment opportunities.

Self-Driving Semi Trucks and the Trucking Industry

There is no question that self-driving vehicles will have a huge impact on the trucking industry. They present new challenges as well as new opportunities.

Truck drivers should avoid panicking over the potential reduction in truck driving jobs. Automation is here to stay and will keep advancing. The better route is to embrace the technology and try to keep up to date with it. Automated trucking will create numerous new jobs and opportunities for those who are willing to help pioneer it. Stay current on the advancements and you may find yourself more in demand than ever before.