Industry News & Tips for Truck Drivers

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Written by: Kate Williams

January 16, 2023

Many truck drivers enter the industry because the pay is good, and the jobs are secure. But not many young men and women earning their CDL consider what a truck driver retirement plan may entail. In fact, it’s not uncommon for people who opted for a career in the trucking industry over spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a four-year college degree to expect to work until they’re eligible for social security.

But the high salaries today’s professional big rig operators earn can easily position you for early retirement or set you up for particularly comfortable golden years if you play your financial cards well. If you are a veteran driver or a rookie choosing among a variety of truck driving jobs, consider how these long-term investment strategies could set you up later in life.

4 Investment strategies for truck drivers

Consider that, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average truck driver earned $54,320 in 2023, or approximately $26.12 per hour. Top-paying trucking companies continue to increase salaries to secure the help of experienced truck-driving professionals. Among the highest of pay are reported top earners making $110,000. Many companies also offer incentives such as cash bonuses to sign on, health care, and profit sharing. If you have an entrepreneurial streak, Owner Operators are pulling down upwards of $220,000 in some cases.

The point is that for those thinking about truck driving as a paycheck-to-paycheck career, you may want to take notice that you can make a great deal of money. The question is: how to invest that hard-earned cash? These are some of the traditional investment strategies that truckers can use to augment their financial portfolio and plan for your truck driver retirement days with little effort.

• Invest in a 401(k): A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan that offers significant tax benefits. You select a percentage of your income to be automatically taken out of each paycheck and most employers will make a matching contribution, essentially giving you free money. Beware, check the fine print as there are stipulations to earn the match! You will always completely own, or be vested, in your contributions and can not lose this portion. If you leave the employer, you do have the ability to transfer your account to a new retirement plan without penalty or tax consequences. However, any withdrawals before age 59½ will be subject to an early withdrawal penalty and ordinary income tax. The contribution limits change annually; for 2023 you may allocate $22,500 to this type of truck driver retirement fund.

• Mutual Funds/Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): This is done by groups of people pooling their resources and having a manager use the resources to purchase long-term diversified investments. They tend to be relatively low risk and good earners. However, these types of investments have their ups and downs. An index fund is a type of mutual fund that by its nature tends to have lower costs and may be an attractive investment for a truck driver's retirement strategy.

• Stocks: This is a classic long-term wealth strategy used by everyday Americans to build a nest egg for their retirement years. Consider working with a financial planner early in your trucking career on stocks that are steady earners. The point is to select stocks that you cash in 10 to 20 years down the road.

• Bonds: Corporate bonds, municipal bonds, and U.S. Treasuries are considered relatively safe investments with proven yields. If you don’t like risk, this class of investment might be right for your portfolio.

• Certificates of Deposit: This type of investment earns a set profit over a predetermined time period. Any truck driver can go online and research which financial institution offers the best CD rates. You can walk into most banks and invest in a CD. Just be aware of the fact that early withdrawal generally results in penalties.

Along with these methods of investing the salary you earn as a professional freight hauler, traditional and Roth IRAs also remain viable options to discuss with a qualified tax advisor.

If you decide to utilize these strategies, it may be prudent to direct a percentage of your salary toward developing a healthy financial portfolio, investing early and often to take advantage of time for potential growth. But there are alternative pathways for funding one's truck driver retirement plan.

Flipping Land Can Yield High Return on Investment

Television is loaded with reality shows about house flipping. Someone buys a blighted property and directs contractors to revitalize it and, boom, they sell it for a significant profit. That scenario doesn’t lend itself particularly well to the truck driving lifestyle. The home-flipping industry is far too hands-on and uncertain. But land, well, they aren’t making any more of it.

What doesn’t make reality TV is that overgrown properties near neighborhoods and main roads can be quite valuable once they are prepped for building. During your travels, keep an eye out for buildable lots that are still raw. For relatively little investment, you may have an opportunit to purchase a lot, have it professionally cleared, and have a local real estate agent put it on the market for a hefty profit. It’s essential to work with a local real estate professional to understand the market trends in the area.

This proactive wealth-building strategy doesn’t require a great deal of your time. It also puts your travel experiences to additional use. How many occupations provide people with geographical information that can be leveraged?

Real Estate Investments for Truck Drivers

There are trending real estate strategies that may be well suited for long haul truckers. These include multifamily properties and buying your retirement home first. If that sounds counterintuitive, consider the following reasoning why truckers are uniquely positioned for this type of financial strategy.

Buy Your Retirement Home First

Although this may seem like putting the cart in front of the horse, over-the-road truckers spend a lot of time away from home. That minimizes, to some degree, the need to make a substantial investment into your home base. That reality has prompted some drivers to pivot, buying property in luxury areas suited each truck driver's retirement plan.

One of the key strategies is to buy a property that can earn strong rental income, such as a beach community or even college town. Then, enlist the services of a property management company to oversee rental, maintenance, and day-to-day operations. You may also block out times when you use it for vacationing much like a timeshare. The only difference is that you own it. The best part of using this financial strategy is that the property will get paid off from rental revenue. With some due diligence, you may turn a profit while your retirement property gets paid off.

Multifamily Properties for Truck Drivers

A more difficult road is buying a multifamily property that you live in and collect rents. Like the previous scenario, you may enjoy having the rentals effectively pay the mortgage and taxes while holding on to more of your own money. The downside is that it can be challenging to have tenants living next door. You will also need someone reliable to oversee the property while you are earning a living on the open road. Although this might not be the easiest road to take, it can work out well financially for some truckers.  

Plan for Your Truck Driver Retirement Early

Getting that first big truck driving paycheck may make you want to indulge yourself by purchasing things you have always wanted. It’s certainly a time for celebration because you have arrived in a good paying career. But consider putting away a portion of every paycheck toward investments that can strengthen your long-term financial health and well-being.

CDLjobs.com is not a financial advisor. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won't experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!

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Written by: Tyson Williams

April 04, 2022

No one uses more fuel than truck drivers and trucking companies. Truckers are watching on the front lines as prices at the pump rise drastically. Increasing gas prices hurt everyone, but they have an especially devastating effect on the trucking industry. The ripple effect is pronounced. The cost to move freight booms, companies seek alternative transportation methods like railroads, and the list goes on.

Fuel prices were already high before the war in Ukraine began. With relaxing COVID-19 restrictions and an economy dealing with supply chain issues, the cost to fill up your tank soared. After Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, a bad situation became increasingly worse. Much worse.

Gas prices rose 49.1 cents over the seven days following Russia’s attack on Ukraine, a record-setting increase over that period. This seven-day surge narrowly tops what Americans experienced in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when the price of gas rose 49.0 cents in one week during 2005. 

According to fuel data platform GasBuddy, this unprecedented jump in fuel pushed average United States gas prices to an all-time high of $4.104 per gallon. The last time gas prices were over $4 per gallon was in 2008 right before the Great Recession. At that time, gas prices would have been $5.25 per gallon after adjusting for inflation. Experts predict the national average price of diesel, which is currently $4.63 per gallon, will surpass diesel’s highest price of $4.846 by early April.

Government measures to mitigate these rising costs are taking place at both the state and federal levels. President Joe Biden places blame on oil companies for corporate profiteering, saying in a tweet, “Oil prices are decreasing, gas prices should too. Last time oil was $96 a barrel, gas was $3.62 a gallon. Now it’s $4.31. Oil and gas companies shouldn’t pad their profits at the expense of hardworking Americans.”

Vice President Kamala Harris urged Americans to withstand higher costs at the pump. The United States is abstaining from Russian oil, which previously supplied 8% of the United States oil imports. New sanctions have banned imports from Vladimir Putin’s country because of its aggression in Ukraine. “There is a price to pay for democracy,” says Vice President Harris. “You’ve got to stand with your friends. Sometimes it is difficult. Often, it ain’t easy.”

States Take Aim at the Pump

States are beginning to take matters into their own hands. Three states, Maryland, Georgia, and Connecticut, have placed temporary suspensions on gas taxes. More states will likely follow their lead.

• Maryland legislators have eliminated their state gas tax for 30 days, saving Marylanders 36.1 cents per gallon.
• Georgians will save 29.1 cents per gallon while their state gas tax is eliminated until May 31.
• In Connecticut, a measure backed by bi-partisan support lifted the state's 25-cents-per-gallon motor vehicle tax through June 30, saving drivers an estimated $90 million.

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan says, “This bipartisan action will provide some relief from the pain at the pump and it is possible because of the prudent fiscal steps we have taken, which have resulted in a record budget surplus. This is, of course, not a cure-all, and market instability will continue to lead to fluctuations in prices.” The state of Maryland stands to lose nearly $100 million in revenue over the next month due to this tax stoppage.

Similar sentiments came from Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. “Today, I signed HB 304 to temporarily halt collection of the state gas tax and ease the burden consumers are feeling at the pump. We can’t fix everything that Washington has broken, but we are doing our part to lessen the impact on your wallet.”

There are growing calls from citizens and politicians for a national hold on gas taxes. The federal fuel tax is roughly 18.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and roughly 24.3 cents per gallon for diesel. On a 15-gallon tank, Americans would save about $2.75 each time they fill their car up with gas and $3.65 each time they fill up with diesel.

Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona sponsored the Gas Prices Relief Act of 2022, which would provide a temporary exemption from the excise tax on gasoline through the rest of calendar year 2022. The bill is currently under deliberation in the United States Senate Committee on Finance. It has yet to be voted on by either the Senate or the House of Representatives.

Release of oil Reserves

On March 31, in an unprecedented move to attack rising fuel prices and growing inflation,  President Joe Biden announced the United States will release one million barrels of oil per day from its strategic petroleum reserves for the next six months. This release is designed to bridge the gap created by the U.S. ban of Russian oil imports, allowing domestic producers to ramp up production.

While it remains unknown what effect this release of oil reserves will have on pricing overall, it is sure to provide a measure of short-term relief while continued efforts are taken both domestically and internationally to address the crisis.

Truckers always need to be cognizant of transportation costs, but that’s true now more than ever. Protect yourself and your company;  learn important budgeting tips for truck drivers and insider tips on how to improve fuel-efficient truck driving.

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Written by: Kate Williams

March 02, 2022

There are almost 2 million semi trucks and 5.6 million semi trailers currently in operation in the United States according to HDS Truck Driving Institute. But what are the most popular semi trucks in America? What’s the most iconic semi in pop culture history? If you love trucking as much as we do, keep reading to learn about the most prolific and memorable semis in the industry!

FAMOUS SEMI TRUCKS FROM FILM AND TELEVISION

What’s the single most famous semi truck of all time? While that question might not be easy to answer, there are some serious contenders for the title. Let us know your favorite iconic truck by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!

These trucks are recognizable throughout pop culture, and you don’t have to be a truck driver to appreciate their style, designs, and attitude. Take a look at our choices for five of the most famous semi trucks from American film and television:

Snowman’s Kenworth W900 from Smokey and the Bandit
Smokey and the Bandit is one of the most iconic and well-known movies of all time, and while some people swoon over Burt Reynolds’ black Trans Am, truckers know that the true star of the film was Snowman’s Kenworth W900 with a gorgeous wild west mural trailer. Three different trucks were actually used during filming. Two were 1974 models and the third was a 1973 model, which can be picked out by the gold Kenworth emblem. (The ’74’s emblems were silver.)

Rubber Duck’s 1977 Mack from Convoy
While this film might not hold the same level of pop-culture fame as Smokey and the Bandit, Convoy is a favorite among truck drivers across the country. While there were numerous Mack trucks used to create the film, Rubber Duck’s truck is generally a 1977 Mack RS712LST, which is now on display as the Museum of Transportation in St. Louis. While the truck’s black paint and grille guard make the vehicle look mighty tough, the most famous element is the flexing duck for a hood ornament.

Optimus Prime from Transformers
He’s the leader of the Transformers (at least the good guys), and he’s probably the best known semi truck in modern American popular culture. Throughout the multiple generations of Transformers, Optimus Prime has taken the form of many different trucks. He was first represented as a cab-over Kenworth K100, but he has also been a Peterbilt truck. In the latest film starring Mark Wahlberg, Optimus Prime was a custom-built Western Star semi.

The Green Goblin from Maximum Overdrive
It’s hard to forget a murderous semi-truck that is bent on killing all of humanity, but the main villain from Stephen King’s campy horror film becomes even more memorable thanks to the Green Goblin grille. Green Goblin’s face, taken from Spiderman, is mounted on a Western Star truck that chases Emilio Estevez in this so-awful-it’s-fun-to-watch 1986 movie.

BJ's Kenworth K100 from B.J. and the Bear
This short-lived television comedy series has remained in the hearts of Americans, and truck drivers in particular, as the red and white Kenworth K100 is one of the most famous semi trucks of all time. The show only lasted from 1979 to 1981, but it is referenced in pop culture even today. Shows and movies like South Park, 30 Rock, Breaking Bad, and My Name is Earl have all referenced the show or the truck itself. One of the trucks from the original series has been restored and is being used by a hard-working trucker to this day.

POPULAR SEMI TRUCKs: BRANDS to Know

Of course, these fictitious trucks are fun. But what about the real semis that actual truckers rely on? Here are some of the most trusted semi-truck brands in the industry:

Freightliner
Freightliner is a titan in the trucking industry, owning roughly 40% of the market share. They sell nearly 200,000 semis each year and employ over 3,000 workers. The average price of a new Freightliner semi-truck is between $140,000-$160,000. They’re well-known for their culture of innovation, as evidenced by their new E-Mobility electric truck initiative.

Kenworth
Believe it or not, Kenworth produced more than just BJ’s famous red and white K100! A whole lot more, actually. Headquartered in Kirkland, WA, Kenworth specializes in the production of heavy-duty and medium-duty commercial trucks. Kenworth’s W900L, a whopping 130 inches from bumper to back-of-cap, is their best selling and most popular semi truck.

Peterbilt
Another phenomenal brand in the trucking industry is Peterbilt. The company prides itself on durable construction and a high degree of customization in their trucks. With all-aluminum cabs,  ergonomic interiors, and comfortable sleepers, it’s no wonder Peterbilt won a J.D. Power award for highest customer satisfaction among heavy-duty vocational trucks.

What did we miss? Share your favorite trucking brand or truck from a film with us on any of the social media outlets found at the top of this page!

FIND YOUR SEMI TRUCK AND NEW TRUCKING CAREER WITH CDLJOBS.COM

No matter which truck you love, CDLjobs.com has an abundance of trucking jobs posted that may be just right for you! In today’s market, you’ll find a trucking company that fits your needs and your life. Apply for trucking jobs today!

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Written by: Kate Williams

January 20, 2022

With more freight hauling work than many could handle in 2021, truck drivers enjoyed significant salary improvements. Uncle Sam expects to benefit from extended hours of service money, bonuses, and companies increasing pay rates to keep qualified CDL professionals in their ranks. Although paying taxes is an unwelcome responsibility every American shares, truckers have a reason for optimism.

Changes to the tax system could result in men and women who deliver upwards of 72 percent of all goods and materials keeping a larger portion of their earnings.

If you worked a truck driving job in 2021 or plan to earn your CDL and take a good-paying position in 2022, the following information could prove useful.

What Are Truck Driver Tax Brackets?

Reported backlogs at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and pandemic-related disruptions prompted the federal government to move Tax Day to May 17 last year. The due date for federal taxes has been kicked down the road, slightly, from the traditional April 15 deadline to April 18, 2022. Truckers can apply for an extension and put off writing a check until October 2022. If you have a refund coming, the IRS will reportedly begin accepting 2021 filings as soon as January 24.  

Truck driver tax brackets depend largely on taxable income and filing statuses, including single, married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), married filing separately, or head of household. Professional drivers can anticipate paying more to the IRS if they were fortunate enough to cash in on rising trucker salaries. There are seven brackets for 2021 earnings: 10 percent, 12 percent, 22 percent, 24 percent, 32 percent, 35 percent, and 37 percent. According to the IRS, items that rank among the greatest interest include the following:

• For tax year 2021, the monthly limitation for the qualified transportation fringe benefit remains $270, as is the monthly limitation for qualified parking.
• The standard deduction for married couples filing jointly for tax year 2021 rises to $25,100, up $300 from the prior year. For single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately, the standard deduction rises to $12,550 for 2021, up $150, and for heads of households, the standard deduction will be $18,800 for tax year 2021, up $150.
• The tax year 2021 maximum Earned Income Credit amount is $6,728 for qualifying taxpayers who have three or more qualifying children, up from a total of $6,660 for tax year 2020.

Marginal Rates for the tax year 2021, the top tax rate remains 37 percent for individual single taxpayers with incomes greater than $523,600 ($628,300 for married couples filing jointly). The other rates include the following.

• 35 percent for incomes over $209,425 ($418,850 for married couples filing jointly).
• 32 percent for incomes over $164,925 ($329,850 for married couples filing jointly).
• 24 percent for incomes over $86,375 ($172,750 for married couples filing jointly).
• 22 percent for incomes over $40,525 ($81,050 for married couples filing jointly).
• 12 percent for incomes over $9,950 ($19,900 for married couples filing jointly).
• 10 percent for incomes of $9,950 or less ($19,900 for married couples filing jointly).

The standard tax deduction stands at $12,550 for single people or married couples filing separately, $18,800 for head of household, and $25,100 for married couples filing jointly or surviving spouses. Approximately 90 percent of taxpayers use the standard deduction that increased significantly following the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Truckers who have accumulated work-related expenses greater than their respective standard deduction may be better served by itemizing, according to tax experts.

Common Truck Driver Tax Deductions

If you received a W-2 from a freight hauling company, the IRS will not allow you to deduct job-related expenses. However, self-employed truckers or those operating under a lease purchase arrangement will be pleased to discover many of the usual deductions remain in place. These include the following.

• Union Dues and Trucking Association Fees
• Cell Phone Plans
• Vehicle Costs and Depreciation
• Products and Necessities for Travel
• Computer and Internet Expenses
• Trade-Related Tools and Equipment
• Business Insurance
• Business Taxes and Licensing Costs
• Industry-Related Subscriptions

It’s vital to distinguish tax-deductible expenses from purely personal ones. While items essential to your truck driving job, such as uniforms, gloves, and even sunglasses may be tax-deductible, everyday wear is typically not allowable. Commuting to and from home or a business facility is considered a personal expense, while transporting a load is job-related. Truckers are advised to maintain concise records of their expenditures and consult with a tax professional regarding gray areas.

Health Care Deductions May Lower Trucker Taxes

Owner-operators are usually tasked with maintaining a health insurance policy at their own expense. The IRS appears to be easing out-of-pocket expenses by allowing deductions. Depending on how much independent truckers spend and the way they organize their business, the following could lower your tax liability, according to the IRS.

• For the taxable years beginning in 2021, the dollar limitation for employee salary reductions for contributions to health flexible spending arrangements remains $2,750.
• For tax year 2021, participants who have self-only coverage in a Medical Savings Account, the plan must have an annual deductible that is not less than $2,400, up $50 from tax year 2020; but not more than $3,600, an increase of $50 from tax year 2020.
• For self-only coverage, the maximum out-of-pocket expense amount is $4,800, up $50 from 2020.
• For tax year 2021, participants with family coverage, the floor for the annual deductible is $4,800, up from $4,750 in 2020; however, the deductible cannot be more than $7,150, up $50 from the limit for tax year 2020.
• For family coverage, the out-of-pocket expense limit is $8,750 for tax year 2021, an increase of $100 from tax year 2020.

Health care plan costs continue to rise, and leveraging tax breaks can help independent truckers follow through with annual physicals and get the medication attention they deserve.

Miscellaneous Tax Breaks Truck drivers Can Utilize

Although CDL professionals spend long days on the road and weeks away from home, downtime and the internet can open some unique opportunities. Truckers wishing to further their education can enroll in online classes and deduct a portion of the cost. The Lifetime Learning Credit stands at $119,000, an increase of $1,000 over 2020 tax filings. American citizens who now reside and pull loads in Canada or Mexico may be able to take advantage of the $108,700 foreign earned income exclusion. And the annual exclusion for gifts remains $15,000 again this year.

There has never been a better time to earn a CDL and take a good-paying position as a truck driver. In turn, this tax information should prove helpful to keep more of your income in your bank accounts. 

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

January 05, 2022

The following budgeting tips for truck drivers are surefire ways to cut down on all those truck driver expenses, allowing you to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

Whether you’ve just begun a rewarding career as a CDL professional or you’re an experienced freight hauler, it’s never too early or too late to learn about saving money

Right now, money is good in truck driving. The economy is recovering from the pandemic and supply chain logjams appear to be easing. These factors paired with the ongoing driver shortage has driver wages and benefits skyrocketing.

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t periodically look for new ways to save money as a trucker. The day will come when you want to leverage your finances to buy a nice house or take that dream vacation. Don’t miss out on those opportunities because you didn’t take full advantage during this booming market.

Learn more about how to save money as a truck driver.

8 Clever Budgeting Tips for Truck Drivers

1. CREATE A REDUCED SPENDING BUDGET

It seems like common sense to create a truck driving budget to help manage spending. But not many professional CDL drivers actually have one. The result? Money gets unnecessarily squandered on things like fast food and road coffee. It may not sound like much, but it adds up fast. Knowing how to save money on food as a truck driver makes a considerable difference over time (see our next tip!).

Budgeting is all about money earned minus money spent. If you don’t know where your money’s going, you’re already behind. Don’t get behind. Create a budget.

Take a long look at your weekly and monthly spending. Make a plan to cut corners and reduce wasteful expenses. Identifying the areas that cause problems is an important and necessary step to keeping more of your income. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the savings after tallying up your expenses for just one single month. Now think about how that adds up over time!

2. MAKE AND PACK YOUR MEALS

Of all the money saving tips for truckers, making your own food more often is perhaps the most immediately impactful. Eating out is a huge expense for truck drivers. Consider investing in a truck cab fridge. You can find small and inexpensive ones online, and this small upfront cost would save you big down the road.

Packing your food is easiest if you are working a regional or dedicated trucking job. However, even if you are driving the longest over-the-road routes, replacing a few meals with some homemade ones can add up to major savings. Even if you are only spending $8 eating out per meal, that is $168 per week, and $8,736 per year. Making just half your meals yourself would create thousands of dollars in savings. As a bonus, cooking your meals is much healthier than eating fast food.

3. GET THE MOST OUT OF TRUCK STOPS

Experienced truckers are fully aware that fuel prices vary by region and company. Planning a route to maximize the benefit of low-cost diesel remains a crucial money-saving strategy. Yet inexpensive fuel isn’t the only benefit of trucker-friendly facilities.

When you stop to refuel, take advantage of other low-cost and free amenities. Refill your water bottles instead of purchasing new ones. Use the station’s free WiFi to manage online bill payments or respond to emails and social media messages rather than using your cellular data. Truck stop coffee can be pretty good and very cheap. Bring a thermos and fill it up. Some of the facilities even offer showers and laundry. Truckers are required to take breaks. Put that time to good use by saving money!

4. ASK ABOUT CDL Holder DISCOUNTS

Businesses offer reduced prices to groups for two fundamental reasons. First, they want your patronage. Second, it’s a way to say “thank you for your service” to veterans and first responders among others. This is why establishments offer CDL discounts. Truckers are part of the lifeblood of the country, delivering essential goods and materials. Without drivers, there would be a lot less food in supermarkets. We all remember the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With that in mind, check for CDL discounts at hotels, restaurants, and other businesses along your route. A Google search for “trucker discount hotels” in the city you’re staying in could save you up to 20% of the nightly rate at some places. It’s also relatively common for insurance companies to offer reduced rates. Searching the internet for CDL discounts may also uncover coupons specifically for professional drivers. Don’t pay full price if you don’t have to. Always ask if a discount is available for CDL professionals.

5. SWITCH TO LUMP SUM PAYMENTS

One common strategy that truck drivers employ is setting up automatic bill payments. Being on the road for days or weeks at a time too often leads to missed due dates. In turn, that means late fees and dings to your credit score. Although monthly automatic payments remain a smart bill-paying method, drivers could also be saving money by switching to annual lump sum payments.

By switching your monthly auto-payments to annual lump sums, numerous companies offer discounts. This generally holds true with things such as auto and home insurance, as well as subscriptions like Sirius radio or other miscellaneous services. Many of these companies encourage setting up convenient annual automatic payments. Compared to automatic monthly payments, the only difference may be more money staying in your wallet.

6. DON’T GET A TICKET

This may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s not unusual for a driver to feel rushed and push the pedal down. Speeding, other tickets, and preventable accidents are often astronomically expensive for truckers. The initial cost is the hefty fine you will have to pay. After that, drivers accumulate negative points against their CDL and, of course, insurance increases. Being a little tardy, or even a lot tardy, is far less expensive than paying a fine out-of-pocket, increased monthly insurance premiums, and risking the loss of your CDL. Watch your speed!

7. PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE AVOIDS BREAKDOWNS

One of the tried-and-true ways to save money as a trucker is to keep your rig in tip-top shape. That’s a lesson that drivers sometimes learn the hard way after an expensive roadside breakdown. The cost of having a mechanic come out to get you up and running can be painful. Worse, a tow to a garage that works on trucks on top of the mechanic’s regular work is only slightly less excruciating than the lost wages. Talk about a double-whammy.

Keeping routine maintenance appointments is essential to minimizing unnecessary breakdowns and their associated costs. Beyond consistent maintenance, many experienced drivers run through a safety checklist before leaving the yard. If something seems out of whack, the time to deal with such issues is before you hit the interstate. Your bank account will thank you.

8. SIGN UP FOR CREDIT CARD REWARDS PROGRAMS

The credit industry turns a profit on everyday people paying interest on credit card balances. They even offer rewards as an enticement for you to apply for their card. But they didn’t account for truck drivers taking full advantage of rewards programs and paying that card off in full each month.

CDL holders can maximize their benefits with cards that offer gas rewards and even cash back. After all, who purchases more fuel than a trucker? Nobody! A savvy trucker can use cards with high rewards, but the key is to always pay the balance off in full at the end of each month. Be careful; one misstep and your benefits earned are likely lost in full to the high interest rate you’ll pay. All you need to do is connect online and transfer the funds.  And, don’t feel bad that the credit card industry is losing money on your interest. They’ll undoubtedly make a profit on millions of non-trucking Americans.

INCREASE YOUR INCOME

It’s easy to fall into bad habits when you’re driving long distances every day. Make sure you keep track of your spending so you can avoid unnecessary expenses. Also, try to plan ahead so you can save money on gas and food.

While these tips focus on spending reduction, don’t forget about working toward increasing your earnings! To take your financial planning even further, look for a new truck driving job offering better pay. Because of the current driver shortage, there are endless opportunities and companies are competing with each other for qualified drivers. Combining cost-saving efforts with a higher income will significantly improve your financial future. 

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Written by: Kate Williams

January 02, 2022

By 2024, the driver shortage in the trucking industry is estimated to reach 175,000. Trucking companies will be in serious peril unless they continue to refine their driver recruiting strategies.

While there is no single best way to recruit CDL drivers, there are driver recruiting techniques that successful recruiters employ to attract good drivers to enter into mutually beneficial business relationships.

An effective way to recruit truck drivers involves a two-pronged plan of action:

1. Learn approaches that attract top talent to apply to your company, and
2. Retain those drivers by listening to their needs with genuine concern and doing your best to accommodate them whenever possible. 

Knowing how to recruit CDL truck drivers is a skill, like any other, that only improves through learning and practice. Here are some ideas on how to get ahead in a challenging market:

STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT DRIVER APPLICATIONS

The first step is to capture the interest of likely employment prospects and persuade them to apply.

1. List Openings on Online Job Boards

When drivers search for truck driving jobs, online trucking job boards are often the place where most drivers begin. Job boards like CDLjobs.com are devoted specifically to promoting truck driver jobs and helping your postings garner more attention from qualified candidates. Listing your openings on these sites is essential to find drivers in this tough market. Investing in featured truck driving job posts that receive greater visibility gives companies a huge advantage over others who are also struggling through the driver shortage all by themselves.

2. Keep Your Company Website Up to Date 

In many cases, the information trucking companies present online is the first impression a prospective driver will have about your organization. You must make it a good one by keeping your content fresh and up-to-date. A prospective hire isn’t going to think much of your operations if your website promotes your 2019 pay rates and includes several broken links. If outdated information is what they find, they’ll quickly move on to another job.

Your website should also share compelling success stories from your current driving force. Interested candidates are far more likely to apply for your jobs when hearing from drivers willing to vouch for you as an employer.

3. Ask for Driver Referrals

Chances are very good that the drivers you employ now have friends who are drivers with other trucking companies or who want to get into the business. A referral program will help you find new drivers with the help of the ones you already have.

However, take a delicate approach. Make sure your current drivers know that you're not looking to replace them, but to augment your current workforce, which will benefit your drivers by allowing you to take on more contracts. Offering your current drivers a finder's fee or referral bonus as an extra incentive is often especially effective.

4. Think About What Drivers Want

Your recruitment materials shouldn't be solely focused on you and your company. Demonstrate to your prospective applicants how they stand to benefit from working for you. Reference the qualities that make your company a particularly great place to work by always trying to answer the implicit question, "What's in it for me?.” Successful recruiters in today’s world aggressively anticipate driver needs. They understand that this is an extremely competitive market, and they’ll fail if they’re not able to communicate their company’s value to drivers.

STRATEGIES TO USE WHEN TALKING TO CANDIDATES

As you receive promising applications, it's best to connect with candidates quickly. You’ll need to determine if they are, indeed, a good fit for your trucking company and are still interested in the job. Use these proven strategies while engaging with prospective drivers:

1. Sincerity Matters

Show that you care about each applicant as an individual, not just as a potential resource. Address the driver by name and say "thank you" every chance you get. Applicants have an instinct for detecting sincerity and they’ll place their trust in one who shows it.

2. Be Helpful

Each applicant comes to you from a unique situation, with different wants and needs. You won't be able to fulfill every request but make every effort to be accommodating. Even if the answer to their request is ultimately "no," the driver will appreciate any genuine effort you make on his or her behalf.

3. Communicate Clearly

Make an extra effort to ensure that drivers understand your operation. Provide clear and detailed explanations. You may know that your company is the best fit for the driver, but unless you can get your points across effectively, he or she may not understand and move on.

4. Listen to the Driver

While you're explaining how your operation works and why your company is great to drive for, be sure to listen to the driver and understand what he or she needs from a job. Again, do your best to accommodate the driver's needs and wants to the extent possible, but if the job turns out not to be a good fit, be honest about it and don't string the applicant along by offering false hope.

Sometimes, for many different reasons, drivers may decide to move on from your company. An exit interview is an opportunity to find out why and ask if there's anything you can do to change the driver's mind. Keep this feedback in mind when hiring new drivers and use it to ensure your workforce is happy and productive.

TRUCK DRIVER RECRUITING IS STILL A PEOPLE BUSINESS

Working as a driver recruiter is undoubtedly a tough job. However, “We didn’t get any leads this week,” is not an acceptable answer during your management meeting when you’re getting beaten up over a small driver orientation class. Do your homework and learn about truck driver recruiting techniques. Take advantage of the strategies we’ve given here. Perhaps most importantly, make sure you’re doing business with advertising people who understand that driver recruiting is still a people business and not simply number generation. You’ll be miles ahead in the long run.

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Written by: Kate Williams

December 30, 2021

The life of a truck driver can be quite challenging. Drivers spend long stretches of time alone transporting goods across the nation. Truck stops provide a vital service for truckers to take time away from their cab to rest and revitalize so that they may stay alert behind the wheel.

There are plenty of popular truck stops across the country. These areas aim to make trucking jobs easier and more convenient for drivers by offering amenities and conveniences that most people typically enjoy at home. You never truly appreciate a truck stop with a hot shower until you’ve worked as a trucker!

However, there are some phenomenal truck stops take their services to another level, offering entertainment and luxuries that usually come from giant malls, shopping centers, and hotels.

So where are the best truck stops in the United States? Here is a list of truck stops that are among the most popular to get us started.

8 Popular Truck Stops around the Country

Iowa 80: Walcott, Iowa

We’ll admit, we’re a little partial to this truck stop, since its Walcott, Iowa, location is near our home base. But we’re not the only people who love the Iowa 80 Truckstop. Officially known as the "World's Largest Truckstop," this location has all the services you could ask for, including an impressive 50-foot long salad bar.

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the Iowa 80 as not closed its doors since opening day in 1964. Not only can drivers refuel, the enormous facility has grown to offer drivers eight restaurant choices, a barber shop, chiropractor, dentist, a 60-seat movie theater, workout room, laundry facilities, truck service center, truck wash, pet wash, CAT Scale, 24- private showers, a trucking museum and more!

Join the staff of Iowa 80 each July, when they salute America's truckers during the 2-day Walcott Truckers Jamboree.

Florida 595: Davie, Florida

Touting over 450 parking spots, highly-secured with 24/7 monitoring, truckers typical nightmare to find overnight parking may not be as big of a problem when you stop at the Florida 595 truck stop in Davie, Florida. Drivers will find this truck stop covers not only basic the basic amenities with a large convenience store, diner, and showers, but those who still enjoy classic communication may have their citizen band (CB) radio tuned up or repaired by a skilled technician.

Whiskey Pete’s: Primm, Nevada

If you are traveling near the state line of California and Nevada, this truck stop, operated by Flying J, presents the perfect opportunity for rest and relaxation. You can find all types of stores and services, including a renovated hotel, casinos, outlet stores, and a 24-hour restaurant.

The property originated as a gas station owned by Pete MacIntyre. The story goes that Mr. MacIntyre wasn't making a profit on the gas station alone and began bootlegging, which earned his the moniker "Whiskey Pete." In 1977, the current casino property was aptly named Whiskey Pete's in his honor. For a bit of historic nostalgia, you can visit the lobby to see the bullet-ridden car in which the notorious bank robbers Bonnie and Clyde met their demise.

Willkomm's Petro: Sturtevant, Wisconsin

Near the intersection of highways 94 and 20 between Milwaukee and Chicago, the Willkomm's PETRO gives truckers a wonderful experience for rest and relaxation. One of the highlights that makes this middle-America location one of the best truck stops is the in-house chiropractor who is also licensed to conduct DOT physicals. 

The Iron Skillet restaurant that is one of the most popular among professional drivers, serving hearty homestyle meals. Add in the amenities of laundry, arcade, movie theater and chapel, and you have a winning combination.

South of the Border: Hamer, South Carolina

Located just south of the North Carolina state line, South of the Border is a unique place for truck drivers to rest and take in some entertainment. Much like Iowa 80, the facility started out as a small beer stand in 1949 and has expanded over the course of many years to what now amounts to a small town. The roadside amusement area has some of the most unique Mexican-themed attractions, including a reptile lagoon, a 100 foot sombrero-clad statue of their mascot named Pedro, golf course, and even a wedding chapel. 

Pedro's Truck Stop, also known as Porky's truck stop, is located on the SOB grounds, brewing fresh coffee for truck drivers 24/7. Showers, supplies, a trucker's lounge, and a large covered picnic area are just some of the amenities offered at the truck stop.

Should drivers decide they would rather rest outiside of their cab, the campus offers a variety of renovated pet-friendly rooms at the South of the Border Motor Inn. Truckers may also choose to lodge at Camp Pedro, a campground fully equipped and offering barbeque grills.

Clearwater Travel Plaza: Clearwater, Minnesota

The Clearwater Travel Plaza has been serving professional drivers since 1976. Located west of the Twin Cities, this location has everything you would expect from a modern truck stop, including showers, a food court, a convenience store, and a lounge. Frequent visitors can take advantage of their VIP rewards program to receive digital offers and exclusive savings send directly to their mobile phone.

But what sets this location apart, ranking it among the best truck stops, is their award winning, down-home cooking, something every trucker appreciates! The restaurant serves a creamy chicken and rice soup that landed it in the top 5 trucks stops according to The Food Network.

The staff here understand that a truck driver's time is valuable and aim to make you feel at home when away from home. 

Jubitz Travel Center: Portland, Oregon

This might be the best truck stop to spend an evening. Jubitz Truck Stop offers everything the commercial driver needs including full-service truck maintenance and repair facilities, ample paved parking with free Wi-Fi, clean showers, a dog wash bay, laundromat, barber shop, high-speed fueling, deli, drivers lounge, and convenience store.

With 35 electrified parking areas, you can conserve fuel while your truck is parked, and if you want to enjoy some entertainment, the live music, dance lessons, and poker nights should help you unwind after a long day behind the wheel.

Dysart’s Truck Stop: Bangor, Maine

If you value great service and hospitality, along with authentic local cuisine, then this Maine truck stop should be on your list. The homemade comfort food has people from all over visiting this destination, and truckers will appreciate the modern amenities like free wifi, private showers, and a working mail room.

Where is Your Favorite Truck Stop?

One of the frustrations that professional drivers face when driving long haul is finding a convenient place to stop. Drivers need to rest and recuperate to stay alert on the road but having easy access, plenty of parking, and safe accommodations is key.

We hope that this list of popular truck stops will be useful for your next route. If you have recommendations for other truck stops to share, please let us know and your information may be featured in future CDLjobs.com news.

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Written by: Kate Williams

December 27, 2021

Many of us laugh at the thought of making New year’s resolutions because roughly 80% of them fail by February. 

Instead of giving up on them completely, use these 6 tips to be one of the millions of people across the country who improve their life by turning a resolution into a full blown life change for the better!

Work to Keep your New Year's Resolutions

1. Identify an Area for Improvement

The life of an over-the-road truck driver is rewarding but can also be tremendously difficult. Sacrifice defines the profession as truckers spend a considerable amount of time away from their home and loved ones. Inevitably, keeping America running by dedicating day after day to life on the road puts enormous strain on other areas of your life.

The first step to solving any problem is admitting there is one. Start by identifying which of these 7 broad areas of your life may need some work: Family, Physical, Spiritual, Career, Intellectual, Social, Financial. Knowing what area(s) of your life you want to improve allows you to narrow your focus and map out a plan to achieve your resolution.

2. Goal Setting

Once you pinpoint an area of your life that you would like to see changed, set a concrete goal that will make it happen.

• You want to get in better physical shape?
  • Make it a goal limit fast food to only once or twice a week on the road.

• You want more financial success?
  • Make it a goal to listen to at least one personal finance podcast each day while driving.

• Are you dissatisfied with your current job?
  • Apply to trucking companies that better suit your situation.

Set specific, measurable goal outcomes so that you can attain success or hold yourself accountable if you don’t meet your goal. Just the act of setting a goal encourages new behavior, guides focus, and promotes self-control.

3. Talk About It

Truck drivers go through many of the same struggles in the course of any day, week, or month on the road. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your fellow truckers for their insight about your goals. They’ve probably experienced something similar themselves, or at least they know someone else who has.

Tell your friends and family about your resolutions, too. Other people will be able to help motivate you, support you when things get difficult, and offer strategies to achieve your resolution in ways you may not have considered before.

4. Have A Purpose

Motivation comes pretty easily on January 1st when you’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed thinking about resolutions that will better your life. It’s a lot more difficult once you’re a few weeks in and the challenges of making a change set in. In these inevitable times of doubt, it’s important to remember why you’re chasing your resolution. Being aware of your purpose, and frequently reminding yourself of that purpose, will keep you on track in moments of weakness. Say you’re chasing a goal for your family. Tape a picture of your loved ones to your dashboard, so you’re regularly remembering the reason you’re sacrificing whenever you think about giving up. Having a constant reminder of your purpose will help you persist with your resolution.

5. Visualize Success

The Law of Attraction states that positive or negative thoughts bring positive or negative experiences into a person’s life. You’re probably familiar with the old adage “he who thinks he can and he who thinks he can’t are both usually right.”

Create a vivid picture in your mind about what it will look like and what it will feel like once you accomplish your new year’s resolution. It takes intentional action to spark change. It may feel silly at first, but by visualizing success, you’re putting yourself in the right headspace to attract the change that your resolution seeks.

6. Start Small

While it’s appealing to set big, lofty goals, taking on too much too quickly is a surefire way to burnout and not make any progress. Small steps lead to big results. Instead of setting a huge goal that seems overwhelming or impossible, break it into small, actionable steps that will incrementally lead to results. Saying you want to lose 50 pounds is daunting and it’s not going to happen overnight.

Alternatively, setting specific health goals, such as eat one fruit and one vegetable every day is realistic, quickly obtainable, and builds momentum towards conquering more small goals in the immediate future. Over time, small victories add up to achieve the big, lofty goal you would have set and not reached if you tried to tackle it all at once.

By using these 6 tips, you will improve your odds of achieving your new year’s resolutions, as well as any other goals you set throughout the year. The past few years have been a struggle for many Americans. While the upcoming year may sound like "2020 - two," you can put the past behind and navigate to a new and improved route by following these guidelines to improve your life and reach new goals.

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Written by: Kate Williams

December 01, 2021

Do you know the pros and cons of truck driving? Learning about the truck driver lifestyle might help you figure out if this career path is right for you. Whether sitting up high in the cab of an 18-wheeler rolling across the nation or delivering materials and goods on regional routes, a  trucker's lifestyle offers daily adventures.

Professional truck drivers explore exciting places, meet new people, and enjoy rewarding experiences that people working indoors cannot imagine. Truck driving professionals earn high-paying salaries working a variety of truck driver jobs.

This article details both truck driver benefits and struggles that drivers face, so you can decide if this lifestyle should be in your future.

BE PREPARED FOR THE TRUCK DRIVER LIFESTYLE

Recognizing the wealth of opportunities for men and women who hold CDLs attracts many people to the profession. But it’s critically important to have a sense of what the trucker lifestyle entails. In too many cases, people enter the field with expectations that it’s fast, easy cash. Driving truck remains hard work and is not suited for everyone.

According to an American Trucking Association report, 2020 saw driver turnover rates at 90 percent for large truckload carriers while small fleets saw a 3 point dip over the prior year to 69 percent. Those rates accounted for both normal attrition and drivers getting out of the industry for other reasons. Continued tightness in the driver market is expected to continue well into 2022 and beyond.That’s why it’s essential to have a realistic grasp of the industry's challenges about what the lifestyle is all about. This is what you can expect.

• Unusual Perks: It may come as a surprise, but truckers are often welcomed at stops with free coffee, lunch and other perks. In some cases, customers refuse modestly damaged packages, and you might be permitted to keep them. Truckers end up with some cool oddities!
• Trucks are Mini Homes: Today’s cabs frequently come with amenities such as air conditioning, heat, mini refrigerators, and cooking facilities. A crock pot or Foreman grill may not be entirely out of the question.
• Drive Alone: Professional drivers are generally alone in the vehicle for the entire route. The idea of picking up a hitchhiker for companionship is a poor decision that could get you fired. If you are considering a truck driving position, be sure you are comfortable with plenty of quiet time.
• Professional Courtesy: A minority of drivers believe that others should get out of their way because they are working. That attitude will likely not lead to longevity in the trucking industry. Companies routinely put a phone number on tractor trailers with slogans like “How’s my driving?” and disgruntled motorists absolutely call to complain. A courteous trucker is more likely to earn bonuses for their good driving habits.
• Capped Truck Speeds: The idea that drivers must race across the country to meet the boss’ demands is simply untrue. Today’s freight haulers are actually moving in the opposite direction by capping a rig’s speed capabilities under 65 mph. Driver safety is of the utmost importance.
• Fitness Challenge: Driving truck remains a relatively sedentary job. You will spend long hours in a seated position. This reality can lead to diminished health if you do not eat a healthy diet and do basic fitness activities when off duty. Consider getting a step counter and set walking goals, among other strategies to keep you in shape and healthy.

It takes a confident, independent personality to have a long and fruitful career as a truck driver. There are a wide range of positions besides long-haul driving, so you can choose the job that suits you best. Dedicated driving jobs with established companies can allow truckers to remain in one area and even be home every night. Plus, owner operators can negotiate pay and freelance with even more flexibility. Simply put, long-haul driving is not the only lifestyle available.

Benefits of Being a Truck Driver

Regardless of your personal preferences, there are certain aspects of the job that the vast majority of truckers agree are considered beneficial to their lifestyle. So, why should I be a truck driver?

• Freedom of the open road
• No boss looking over your shoulder
• Get paid good money to see the country
• Unrivaled job security
• Opportunity to become your own boss

The economic security of working in the trucking industry is undeniable. Ongoing driver shortages are forcing companies to compete by offering increased wages and benefits. There’s basically no such thing as an unemployed truck driver, just one weighing his or her best options. With that said, it still may be in your best interest to speak with fellow truckers about the realities of life on the road. Weigh their experiences and these considerations against the truck driving opportunities you are considering before you head out on the highway.

TRUCK DRIVER LIFESTYLE BENEFITS FOR MILLENNIALS

The median age of today’s trucker stands at about 47 years old. That means that over 1 million people will be needed to fill vacancies in an industry already burdened with worker shortages. By the same token, millennials are expected to comprise over 75% of the country’s labor force by 2030. It’s easy to see that millennials are the future of the trucking industry. If you are a millennial weighing your employment opportunities, it’s fair to ask: What does a trucker's lifestyle have to offer? What are the pros and cons of being a truck driver?

• Immediate Opportunity: To work in the high-paying trucking industry, millennials do not need a 4-year college degree. In fact, truck driver training schools require only a minimal investment by comparison. Trucking school can be completed in 2-3 months and good-paying trucking companies are willing to pay signing bonuses that cover part of your initial costs. What makes a truck driving career even more cost-effective is that financial aid for CDL school may be available, lowering your out-of-pocket expenses.
• Opportunity for Women: The perception of driving truck revolves around the image of an exhausted, unshaven older man driving all night and getting little sleep. Luckily, those days are long gone and much of the gender barrier that may have existed decades ago has been set aside.. Young women are rapidly entering the trucking workforce. According to USA Today, there are more than 217,000 long-haul women truckers, and the percentages rise each year. Further, women reportedly saw a $7,000 increase in driver pay over the last five years.
• Flexible Work Hours: According to reports by Forbes magazine and others, studies show that millennials place a high emphasis on flexible hours. Research indicates that many millennials are interested in non-traditional work schedules. Among the preferences outlined in the poll were alternative schedules, part-time, and freelance work. All of these options align with the truck driver lifestyle quite well!
• Excellent Pay: There are reportedly upwards of 100,000 trucking job openings available and not nearly enough qualified drivers to fill them. Today’s millennial fleet drivers are often paid $70,000 or more with the potential to earn bonuses and other perks. The pros of truck driving are simply unmatched by other entry level positions.

It’s also crucial for millennials thinking about a career as a professional driver to understand that today’s big rigs are comfortable and fully outfitted with the latest technologies. The technological advancements in other fields are being equally enjoyed by open road pros. The benefits of being a truck driver are plentiful, especially for younger professionals entering an industry desperate for more employees like them.

A robust economy and low unemployment offer working people a wealth of opportunities. Regardless of whether the economy continues to grow or another recession hits in the future, there are simply not enough qualified truck drivers to fill truck driving vacancies. One of the biggest, most unmistakable benefits of being a truck driver is that your future employment is secure.

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Written by: Tyson Williams

November 19, 2021

President Joe Biden signed a $1 trillion infrastructure bill into law with massive implications for the transportation industry and trucking world. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed both chambers of Congress with bipartisan support. From the biggest financing of American roads and bridges in over a decade to the complicated debate about its impact on inflation, truckers will certainly feel the effects of this new law for years to come.

President Biden says these effects will be positive, “My message to the American people is this: America is moving again, and your life is going to change for the better.” Investment is desperately needed to ensure safe travel, according to experts. United States infrastructure received a grade of C- from the American Society of Civil Engineers in 2021, marking the first time in 20 years America has scored higher than the D range.

Bill Paves the Way for Transportation Updates

New spending in the infrastructure deal totals $550 billion. The money recently approved by Congress will be used, in part, in the following ways:

• repair bridges and roads ($110 billion),
• bolster freight and passenger railways ($66 billion),
• increase access to broadband internet ($65 billion),
• fund public transit ($49 billion),
• improve airports ($25 billion),
• strengthen ports and waterways ($16 billion),
• expand electric vehicle charging and other alternative fueling stations ($8 billion), and more.

With over four million miles of public roadways across the United States, the men and women of the trucking industry are forced to endure unsatisfactory driving conditions daily. Costs of traveling on substandard roadways can be high and have a tremendous affect on the bottom line of many trucking companies.

The Biden infrastructure bill, part of the Build Back Better plan, received bipartisan support. In addition to most Democrats, 19 Senate Republicans, including Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell, and 13 House Republicans voted in favor of the bill.

“Folks, too often in Washington, the reason we didn’t get things done is because we insisted on getting everything we want. Everything,” said Biden. “With this law, we focused on getting things done. I ran for president because the only way to move our country forward in my view was through compromise and consensus.”

Republican Senator Rob Portman of Ohio echoed sentiments of bipartisanship. “This is what can happen when Republicans and Democrats say we're going to work together to get something done,” he stated after a signing ceremony at the White House.

Portman also applauded former President Donald Trump for his efforts to pass infrastructure legislation during his administration. President Trump declared it was “Infrastructure Week” seven times during his presidency, but new policy was never enacted.

Despite bipartisan support, fierce opposition has also come from both sides of the aisle. Progressive Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was unwilling to vote for the bill without the inclusion of a $1.75 trillion social spending package. This package, aimed to expand social programs and combat climate change, was cut from the original $3.5 trillion scope of the infrastructure bill.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas has already introduced legislation to repeal provisions of the new law. “(Cryptocurrency) is now in danger of being stifled and driven overseas by an overreaching provision in this newly-signed, reckless spending package,” says Cruz. He calls the legislation a “devastating attack” that will stifle the exciting emerging industry that is cryptocurrency.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal drives America forward

No matter the politics, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is one of the largest infrastructure packages in the history of the United States and will benefit truck drivers across the country. “Roads and bridges are not political—we all drive on them,” said president and CEO of American Trucking Associations, Chris Spear. “From farmers to truckers, the millions of hard- working people who make this country great won today. Those lawmakers who put their constituents before themselves to help seal this achievement have cemented a lasting legacy that the American people will now see, feel, and use for many decades to come.”