National Driver Appreciation Week: How Drive My Way Clients Celebrated

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National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is a special time of year when the nation comes together to honor the dedicated truck drivers who keep the economy moving.  

 

With truck drivers moving nearly 11 billion tons of freight in the US each year, their role is nothing short of essential. From delivering everyday goods to keeping the supply chains intact, CDL drivers are truly the backbone of our economy. 

 

This year, many companies went the extra mile to show their appreciation, and here at Drive My Way, we wanted to highlight the exciting ways our clients celebrated this important week across the nation. From special events to exclusive rewards, here is how they gave a big “thank you” to the men and women behind the wheel. 

 

Raffle Prizes, Cookouts, Gifts, and More! 

During 2024’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, taking place September 15-24, many of our clients from across the country went above and beyond to recognize the hard work and dedication of their drivers. 

 

At NFI Industries, the week was packed with a variety of activities, from catered and homemade food to fun carnival games and inflatables. NFI drivers enjoyed raffle prizes, themed days, and special gifts throughout the week. 

 

NFI Industries

With locations across the country and over 4,500 team members, NFI Industries demonstrated the commitment it has to its drivers year-round.  

 

Ryder also participated in this year’s Driver Appreciation Week by hosting unique events at each of their locations across the nation. Many of the events featured cookouts and gifts of appreciation from Ryder management.  

 

System Freight driver appreciation cookout

Truck drivers of System Freight were also able to spend time together as a team at appreciation cookouts this year, complete with catered meals, “thank you” cards, and gift cards from management to show their gratitude and appreciation.  

 

Cargo Transporters took to social media to highlight their drivers, while also hosting giveaways and providing meals.  

 

Drivers at Cargo Transporters enjoying time together

 

Cookouts and catered food events are more than just a popular way to celebrate drivers each National Driver Appreciation Week, they are also a meaningful way to bring drivers together, foster a closer work environment, and show genuine appreciation for the hard work each driver does year-round. 

 

Dart America joined in by holding a company picnic, grilling for both drivers and their families. Management also raffled off gifts and provided Dart gear for drivers, including company shirts, hoodies, and hats.  

 

Dart America’s appreciation events brought together many of the team

 

Dart America’s Annual Driver Appreciation Picnic gives a chance for the whole team to gather together each year and celebrate drivers’ hard work.  

 

Drivers for Peters Brothers Trucking received breakfast two mornings throughout the week and were able to spend time together at a company cookout. Additionally, every driver received new headsets to keep their communication running smoothly. 

CEVA Logistics believes sustainability and supporting drivers go hand in hand. To show their appreciation, they gifted their drivers with eco-friendly, sustainable items. The gifts contributed to delivery of over 15,000 meals to children in need & support to environmental nonprofits.

 

CEVA Logisitics

Following these generous celebrations to honor the hard work and commitment of drivers across the country, many of our clients followed up by celebrating National Technician Appreciation Week. Taking place September 22-28, this week serves as another reminder of essential work done by professional technicians and the importance of recognizing their accomplishments.  

 

If your carrier celebrates Driver Appreciation Week in a unique way, or you’d like to shout out how your employer demonstrates their appreciation throughout the year, be sure to reach out to us on social media!   

 

WIT (Women In Trucking) 2024 Driver of the Year Spotlight Series: Carmen Anderson

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Earlier this year, the inspirational nonprofit Women In Trucking broke tradition by naming three talented drivers as the recipients of the coveted Driver of the Year Award.  

 

While historically reserved for one driver out of a long list of nominees, the 2024 ceremony saw an exciting twist when The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) decided to recognize the accomplishments and careers of Carmen Anderson (America’s Service Line), Deb LaBree (Castle Transport, Landstar), and Jodi Edwards (J.B. Hunt).  

 

Recently, Drive My Way had the chance to speak with 2024 award-winner and experienced CDL driver Carmen Anderson about her career, reaction to winning, and advice to young drivers. Keep reading to learn more about this industry veteran, and why she feels that organizations like Women in Trucking are so important.  

 

Meet Carmen Anderson 

With a career spanning over four decades and nearly 3 million safe-driving miles to her name, Carmen Anderson is a true example of WIT’s mission to recognize outstanding female professional drivers leading the industry in safety standards while working to enhance the public image of the trucking industry as a whole.  

 

Although Carmen has been employed as a meat hauler by America’s Service Line, the private fleet for American Foods Group, for the last seven years, she has a wide range of experience both behind the wheel and behind the scenes of the trucking world.  

 

“What’s really great about my company,” said Carmen, “is that they have stood behind me while letting me do all the extracurricular activities that I do.”  

 

In addition to a full-time schedule as an OTR meat hauler averaging 2,500-3,000 miles a week, Carmen is a member of the Wisconsin Road Team, part of WIT’s Image Team, and a lifetime member of the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association (OOIDA).  

 

Carmen also serves on the organizing committee for the South Dakota Special Olympics and has received training to recognize and prevent human trafficking through her work with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT).  

 

Through these opportunities Carmen has been able to present driver safety advice and speak about life on the road to high school driver education classes across Wisconsin, promote Women In Trucking at conferences nationwide, and even meet US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg at a rest area truck parking opening ceremony.  

 

Carmen’s hard work and engagement in the industry haven’t gone unnoticed. In August of 2019, she was recognized by the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA) as the Driver of the Month. Later in the same year, Carmen was honored with the title of WMCA Driver of the Year, making her the first woman to be named the sole recipient of the award.  

 

This latter win took on another meaning for Carmen when the American Trucking Associations (ATA) dug into nationwide records and confirmed that Carmen was actually the first and only woman to ever win a Driver of the Year award in any of the state associations.  

 

Carmen believes discoveries like that highlight how important Women In Trucking is as an organization.  

 

“It’s about the camaraderie,” said Carmen. “It’s all about giving the opportunities for people who ordinarily wouldn’t be around trucks and introducing them to the trucking world. When we’re at conferences like the Mid America Trucking Show (MATS), or the WIT Accelerate Conference in Dallas, it’s a good feeling to be around other women in the industry and talk about industry issues.” 

 

For Carmen, this sense of camaraderie was felt strongly when she was able to share the title of 2024 Driver of the Year with two other qualified and experienced drivers.  

 

“I was totally blown away to receive the award,” said Carmen. “Especially with the two other women I received it with. It was an unprecedented year when they gave three of them out, and the other two are simply amazing drivers also. We all have our little niche. It’s nice for all of us to be recognized for that.”  

 

Women in Trucking 2024 Drivers of the Year: Deb LaBree, Jodi Edwards, Carmen Anderson

 

Carmen’s Trucking Advice 

After driving a wide range of vehicles, making runs in all 48 mainland states, and serving as a mentor to many fellow drivers, Carmen has become a great resource for advice to stay ahead in this competitive and evolving industry.  

 

When asked about the best advice for drivers just starting out, Carmen emphasized the importance of safety and focusing on what’s important.  

 

“You have to be aware of your surroundings,” Carmen explained. “You need to slow down and watch where you’re going, especially in construction zones. A lot of people are not paying attention, and a lot of people are not moving over for disabled vehicles. It’s just the attention to detail.” 

 

Carmen has also discovered the power of driving with another passenger, whether they have two legs or four. Now, she’s never seen on the road without her two “co-drivers” and pet dogs, Rodney and Otis.  

 

“A lot of companies don’t realize that it’s lonely out here,” Carmen said. “Pets might not be able to speak back, but we still have their companionship. A lot of drivers also have bigger dogs as guard dogs, since you do get bothered out here at times when you don’t want to be.” 

 

As for her own future, Carmen looks forward to cutting down on her miles traveled and spending more time at home. However, if this year is any indication of her future successes, Carmen will surely remain an important figure in the trucking industry, pushing the boundaries of what truck drivers can be and how they are perceived in the public eye.  

 

 

 

Looking for more industry news and stories from real truck drivers? Be sure to check out our social media or read more of our  Truck Driver Blog  posts to stay up to date on the latest trends in the world of trucking.  

 

Thanksgiving on the Road: Easy Recipes, Tips, and More

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One of the hardest parts about being a truck driver is missing holidays and being far from home during important celebrations when your job calls for you to be on the road. This sacrifice should never go unrecognized as truckers work to keep our economy and daily life on track heading into the busy holiday season. However, if you’re going to be on the road this Thanksgiving, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on one of the best parts of the holiday: the food! 

 

Whether you want a reminder of a traditional, home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner or you’re just looking to take a break from truck stop restaurants, there are countless recipes that can be made with just a few ingredients and tools from the comfort of your tractor.  Keep reading to find out everything you need to bring the celebration on the road with you this Thanksgiving holiday.  

 

Tools for a Kitchen on Wheels 

You might be surprised by how many home-cooked meals can be made right out of your truck. Over the years, truck drivers have found many creative ways to make their trucks feel like home, including using small kitchen appliances to cook or meal prep when they’re on the road.  

 

A slow cooker, crock pot, or portable stove is the perfect tool for creating meat dishes, vegetables, and even desserts without taking up much room. Just make sure your truck has the power capabilities necessary for the job. An inverter and an auxiliary power unit (APU) work together so you can easily operate all your appliances, even when your truck is off.  

 

A small collection of spices, Zipper storage bags, and tupperware are also important to maximize your space while still being able to cook and store home-cooked meals. Square plastic baskets can help you organize your space, and it’s always helpful to secure everything you cook with before you hit the road. Nobody wants a slow cooker flying through the air when they take a turn!  

 

Thanksgiving Recipes To Go 

With just a few tools and some simple ingredients, you can bring the comfort of Thanksgiving staple foods to wherever you are this year.  

 

For most people, the first dish they think of when it comes to Thanksgiving dinner is the turkey. Surprisingly, making a delicious turkey on the road isn’t difficult at all. Slow cooker turkey breasts can be the perfect main course, and will leave plenty for leftovers throughout the week! Just plug your slow cooker into the inverter, salt and pepper the turkey breasts, and add one cup of water or chicken broth to the liner of the pot. Let this simmer on low for five hours, and you’re good to go! There are countless variations if you’re looking to spice up the turkey, such as this one, that uses dry onion soup mix to create a gravy.  

 

Sides, Desserts, and More! 

If you feel like no Thanksgiving dinner is complete without sides like stuffing or green beans, there are plenty of easy recipes to make your truck feel just like home. Once again, a slow cooker is the perfect appliance to make delicious Thanksgiving sides, no oven necessary! 

 

Making stuffing requires a bit more prep than turkey, as you combine the ingredients like butter, onions, celery, bread, and seasonings before placing them in the pot. However, recipes like this make it easy to follow step by step and create the perfect stuffing that you can even prepare up to 24 hours before to save yourself time.  

 

Green bean casserole is even more simple: all it requires is a bag of frozen green beans, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and some French onion crunchies to top it off! Just mix the ingredients together and heat them in a microwave or on low on a portable stove, and you’ll have the perfect side dish in minutes.  

 

When it comes to Thanksgiving dessert, pies are usually the star of the show. Although a pumpkin pie is best made in an oven, a slow cooker can be a great inspiration for many other tasty treats. Recipes for brownies, fudge, fruit cobblers, and more are all over the internet, and could be the perfect way to finish off your holiday celebration.  

 

 

Spending holidays on the road as a truck driver can be hard, but there’s one way to make sure you bring a piece of home with you this Thanksgiving. Cooking traditional Thanksgiving meals from the comfort of your tractor is the perfect way to try something new and remind yourself of your family and loved ones.  

 

Here at Drive My Way, we strive to find creative tips and tricks to make truck driving fun and safe all year round. If you’re looking for more articles like this, be sure to tune into our weekly Truck Driver Blog posts and keep up with us on social media. 

The Caves: What Is It Like Driving Underground?

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What’s the most interesting place a job has taken you? Igloo City in Alaska? The deserts of the Southwest? The world’s largest truck stop? For some truckers, the answer is easy: “The Caves” under Springfield, Missouri.  

 

The Caves, officially named Springfield Underground, is a 3.2 million square foot temperature and climate controlled warehouse located entirely in a former limestone mine. With over 3 miles of lit roadway, 224 dock doors, and immediate access to I-44 and US-65, a trip to The Caves is an exciting change of pace for any truck driver. 

 

So what’s it like to drive in such a unique place? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Springfield’s ‘Caves’.  

 

A Brief History  

What initially began as a limestone quarry in 1946 was turned into a mine midway through the 1950s. The original Griesemer mine remained active until 2015, even after construction on the first underground warehouse began in 1960.  

 

The first warehouse was built through a partnership between the then-named Griesemer Stone Company and real estate investment firm Security Terminal. For the next five and a half decades, mining and warehouse construction continued to remove over 31 million tons of limestone, while building roads, over 3 miles of railway, and infrastructure that keeps the space at a constant 62 degrees.  

 

A 1994 merger of Griesemer Stone Company, Security Terminal, and General Warehouse Corporation saw the space united under one name: Springfield Underground. Since then, the operation has continued to grow, carving out more area each year to be offered as leasable space, free from exposure to outdoor elements. 

 

What Is It Like Underground?

For some drivers, it might be difficult to imagine what it’s really like to drive into an underground warehouse to drop off freight. As subterranean warehouses become increasingly popular across the United States, it’s important to understand the unique properties and benefits of places like Springfield Underground.  

 

One great way to see the inside of the Caves before signing on for a job is to watch online trucking content creators who record their trips to Springfield Underground. Popular creators such as Trucker G have uploaded detailed tours that show what it’s like to deliver freight in the underground warehouse. 

 

TikTok is another option for quick videos that explore delivering freight and navigating the sometimes daunting tunnels of Springfield Underground!  

 

With clear ceiling heights of up to 30 feet and buildings ranging in size from 50,000-400,000 square feet, the Caves are far more spacious than some might think. Springfield Underground also offers two types of warehouse storage, dry and refrigerated. Refrigerated buildings range in temperatures from -20 to 55 degrees, while the thermal mass provided by the limestone combined with energy efficient building construction has resulted in customers’ utility consumption decreasing by 30-50%.  

 

If you’re worried about safety, Springfield Underground’s round-the-clock on-site maintenance ensures that the space remains well lit, clean, and secure. With only two entrances, both requiring card controlled access, and sprinkler systems in every building and common space, Springfield Underground has all the up-to-date facilities of a modern warehouse.  

  

 

Over 400 drivers visit Springfield Underground daily, experiencing the unique world of subterranean trucking. Like ice road trucking, many truckers see driving on underground roads as an example of the explorative nature at the core of the truck driving industry.  

 

Have you ever driven in the Caves in Springfield? Be sure to reach out to us on social media so we can hear about your adventures, or learn about other exciting places that trucking has taken you. 

Creative Ways Truckers Have Made Their Truck Home

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Living where you work is one of the many adjustments trucker drivers will make once they begin their career driving. One of the best ways to adapt to this situation and create a welcoming environment is to take some initiative to make the truck feel like a home away from home.  At Drive My Way, we love compiling tips for truck drivers to help them with their life and career on the road.  

What are Some Creative Ways Truckers Have Made Their Truck Home? 

Some of the best tricks and tips we have heard from truckers about making their truck feel like home are outlined below.   

Create a Library: If you like to read, you can create a mini library in your cab to house a selection of books or magazines. Add a custom reading light and you are ready for some important downtime after a long day. Make sure you also have your favorite books on tape and podcasts on deck to help pass the time during your drives. 

Dedicate a Space for Entertainment: If you prefer to watch movies, TV shows, or play games, investing in an entertainment space is the perfect way to feel right at home while you’re on the road. Some of the most popular items we have heard truckers adding to their entertainment space include a TV, DVD player, satellite radio, or gaming console. It’s important to remember though, the more electronics and appliances you have onboard, the more important it is to have an inverter as well. An inverter will help spread out the voltage for everything you have plugged in including your TV, phone, tablet, or toaster.  

Add Personalization: Nothing is going to make your truck feel like home more than making it your space. Create a wall to hang up your children’s drawings, photos of friends and family, and memorabilia you collect on your travels. Get creative with wallpaper, steering wheel and seat covers, accent pillows and seat cushions, area rugs, and more! We’ve even seen truck drivers who create a little spa area with relaxing music and an essential oil diffuser!  

Give Yourself a Kitchen: Even though the space in a cab is limited, there are plenty of ways to make a kitchen area that allows you to make tasty meals and snacks. Many truckers make sure to have their favorite appliances onboard including a mini refrigerator (a perfect place for all those magnets you collect at truck stops), microwave, crockpot, coffee maker, toaster, or even an air fryer! Don’t forget to bring along some of your favorite recipes also. 

Make Your Sleeping Area an Oasis on Wheels: Not only is your truck a place to work and eat, but it is also your bedroom. Some of the best ideas we have seen from truckers on how to make their sleeping area inviting include adding curtains to give the space a more private feel, and if you’re really sensitive to light, blackout curtains are the way to go. You can make your bed the perfect fit for every season by having nice cool, cotton sheets for the summer and super soft, flannel ones for the winter. You can also invest in an electric blanket, comfortable pillows, and any other necessities that will help you get your best rest. You can also add mood lighting and a sound machine to create serenity to help you doze off.  

Rotate Your Theme: One way to keep the excitement going with your truck personalization is to have a new theme and matching decorations that you can rotate throughout the year. You can go patriotic for the 4th of July, spooky for Halloween, and merry for Christmas. From holiday lights to bedspreads, you can make your truck feel close to home.   

If you drive a company owned truck, always make sure to check with them before making any modifications to the interior or exterior of the vehicle. While taking any of these steps can give your truck a homier feel, it’s important to remember that if you feel lonely or isolated, get in touch with family and friends, or be social with fellow truckers at stops. A good conversation is an excellent way to break up the monotony of being alone while driving. With a little creativity, your cab can transform into a tiny home rather than feeling like just the back of your truck.  

Do you have a decked-out rig, full of personality? We want to see all the creative ways you have made your truck and cab match your unique needs and style. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to show off your truck and tell us your story.

2023 National Truck and Step Van Driving Championships

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Do you have what it takes to compete with the best of the best?  

 

This year, truck drivers from across the nation will be headed to Columbus, OH, to battle it out for the title of 2023 Grand Champion in the American Trucking Associations’ National Truck and Step Van Driving Championships.  

 

Every competitor must have first qualified at a state level championship, competing in one of nine classes of competition. In addition to winning at the state level, each contender must have been accident free for a year, inspiring safe driving practices among the tens of thousands of drivers vying for a spot annually.  

 

Over 500 attendees will crowd the Greater Columbus Convention Center from August 16-19 this year to watch the three-part championships. The competitors will undergo a written examination, a pre-trip inspection test, and, ultimately, a skills test. Although the 2023 Grand Champion is the most coveted title of the championship, there will also be awards for Professional Excellence, Vehicle Condition, and Rookie of the Year.  

 

A Long History of Roadeo 

Originally called the National Truck Roadeo, the championships have been held since 1937. The first competition came just four years after the founding of the American Trucking Association in 1933. 

 

There have been many memorable moments over the years, and a long list of talented drivers who have competed, won, and logged millions of safe driving miles. Over the years, the National Truck and Step Van Driving Championships have provided an opportunity for countless truckers with diverse backgrounds and experience to display the skills, patience, and bravery necessary to succeed in this field.  

 

The 2022 Bendix Grand Champion, Roland Bolduc, is no exception to this great history of impressive drivers. With the 2017 Bendix Grand Champion title already under his belt, the FedEx Express driver aced all the tests last year competing in the Sleeper Berth Division.. 

 

Bolduc, who has more than 2.5 million safe driving miles in a career extending over four decades, was also one of four FedEx drivers that won four out of the nine classes of competition. This included Step Van Division (Gregory Long, FedEx Express), Tank Truck Division (Michael Flippin, FedEx Freight), and Straight Truck Division (Christopher Shaw, FedEx Express). 

 

Winners from the other five classes hailed from employers across the country, including Three-Axle Division (Wilbert Vano, XPO Logistics Inc.), Four-Axle Division (Martin McMahon, RIST Transport), Five-Axle Division (David Guinn, Publix Super Markets Inc.), Flatbed Division (Eric Ramsdell, Walmart Transportation LLC), and Twins Division (Damien Hebert, XPO Logistics Inc).  

 

 

The annual National Truck and Step Van Driving Championships aren’t called the “Olympics of Trucking” for nothing. These competitions offer an opportunity for top talent from across the country to highlight the extensive knowledge and talent required to be a truck driver while entertaining hundreds of spectators.  

 

From winning state level competitions to competing nationally this year in Columbus, OH, every competitor taking part in the National Championships will help shed light on the hard work being achieved by every truck driver in America.  

 

What are your favorite memories of past championships? Will you be attending this year’s? Be sure to connect with us on social media to share your stories and learn more about the National Truck and Step Van Driving Championships.  

Need a Big Break? Visit Iowa 80 

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 Have you been to the world’s largest truckstop? Located off exit 284 on I-80, just west of the Illinois border, Iowa 80 is three times the size of an average truckstop and provides a wide variety of unique services for rest, recovery, and relaxation.  

 

Iowa 80 Truckstop is open 24/7, and hasn’t closed its doors once since opening in 1964! From a dentist office to a movie theater to this year’s Walcott Truckers Jamboree, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the world’s largest truckstop.  

 

What to Expect When Visiting Iowa 80 Truckstop  

They don’t call this stop the ‘Trucker’s Disneyland’ for nothing. Home to 10 restaurants, 23 private showers, and 900 parking spots for trucks, Iowa 80 is the perfect place to recharge, refuel, and meet other drivers passing through.  

 

Iowa 80’s Fleet Fuel Program ensures that you can fill up quickly and efficiently using their automated card reading satellite pumps. The ‘TRUCKOMAT’ Fleet Wash Program will leave your rig spotless, an important part of preventing corrosion and long-term damage. There’s even a certified CAT scale and a self-serve pet wash to provide baths for your traveling companion!  

 

In addition to these helpful features, Iowa 80 has many more luxury services that set it apart from most truckstops. Here is a list of some of the services Iowa 80 Truckstop offers year-round: 

  • Truck Service Center  
  • Movie Theatre  
  • Chiropractor  
  • Dentist  
  • Barber Shop  
  • Laundry Area  
  • Trucking Museum 
  • Custom Printing Shop  
  • Tesla & ChargePoint DC Fast Chargers 
  • Library 
  • Workout Room 

 

This Year’s Truckers Jamboree (Taking Place July 13th-15th 2023) 

Iowa 80 Truckstop is also famous for celebrating truckers in their annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree. The festival is full of food, music, and the coolest rigs from across the country, and this year is sure to be no different!  

 

The jamboree has been held since 1979 and features an antique truck display, porkchop cookout, live music, the Super Trucks Beauty Contest, and more. The event is always free, and Iowa 80 encourages drivers and non-drivers alike to come out and enjoy the celebration.  

 

“We’ve got a lot to be thankful to professional drivers for,” says Heather DeBaillie, Vice President of Marketing at Iowa 80. “Drivers deserve to be celebrated, and we’re happy to host an event that does just that. Professional driving can be a thankless job, but without trucks on the road, consumers wouldn’t have food on the table or a variety of other goods we need and use on a daily basis. It’s an important job.” 

 

Not in the Neighborhood? 

As an OTR trucker, you’ve got the chance to see all corners of America. Although there’s nowhere quite like Iowa 80, if you find yourself far from I-80 there are still some great stops along the way.  

 

Jubitz Travel Center, located in Portland, OR, is sometimes called the ‘World’s Classiest Truck Stop.’ Here you can find a movie theater and barbershop, along with jacuzzis, free dancing lessons, and more!  

 

Noble’s Restaurant and Truck Stop in Corinth, KY, might not be known for its size, but it’s an “Old School Truck Stop” famous for its homestyle country cooking and excellent prices.  

 

Little America in Flagstaff, AZ, has everything you need when passing through the beautiful southwest. From private showers (with a tub!) to a hot grill and deli, this chain of truck stops is perfect when driving through the west.  

 

 

Truckstops are a necessary part of every driver’s experience, and the best ones will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to get back on the road and finish that job. Iowa 80 does that, and more, creating a true home away from home.  

 

What are your favorite experiences at the World’s Largest Truckstop? Is there another truckstop you think deserves the spotlight? Let us know on our social media! 

8 Movies Every Trucker Should Watch

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Trucking is one of the best known, but least understood, careers in America. Truck drivers have been essential to the economy and our daily life for over a century, and trucking movies are an interesting way to explore some different aspects of this important field.  

 

Trucking movies range from the hilarious, cowboy-types seen in the late 70s, trucker-mania phase to over-the-top horror brought to you by famous creators like Stephen King and Steven Spielberg. Documentaries have explored the serious sides of trucking, and box-office hits have brought romance, action, and mystery from behind the wheel to the big screen.  

 

Whether you’re looking to relax on a thirty-four hour reset or need entertainment on a late night stop, these movies might just show you a side of trucking you’ve never seen. Keep reading to discover eight movies every trucker should watch.  

 

Convoy (1978) – Available for Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Tubi  

Based on the 1975 classic country song of the same name, Convoy tells the story of truck driver Martin ‘Rubber Duck’ Penwald (Kris Kristofferson) and his feud with a corrupt sheriff (Ernest Borgnine). Arriving at the height of the CB radio/trucking mania that spread across America in the late 1970s, the movie is an exciting, action-packed ode to the outlaw trucking mentality and the bond formed between drivers. Now considered a classic, it might remind you of the plotline of a few other trucking films from the time. But hey, if it’s not broken, why fix it?  

 

The Ice Road (2021) – Available for Streaming on Netflix 

Liam Neeson and Laurence Fishburne take the lead in this gripping thriller that follows a big-rig ice road driver on a seemingly impossible rescue mission to save a group of miners trapped underground in remote northern Canada. With a surprising amount of twists and fast-paced action, the movie is sure to be a hit with any truck driver or thrill seeker.  

 

Maximum Overdrive (1986) – Available for Rent on Amazon Prime Video 

Master of horror Stephen King’s first (and only) time in the director’s chair came with this over-the-top take on what could happen if technology came to life with a passion to kill. Although it is considered more of a horror-comedy by today’s standards, there are plenty of gory scenes that  could make any truck owner’s skin crawl. If homicidal rigs and possessed vending machines weren’t enough for you, the movie was soundtracked entirely by AC/DC and contains the best-selling single “You Shook Me All Night Long.” It can’t get more 80s than that! 

 

Duel (1971) – Available for Rent on Amazon Prime Video 

Stephen King isn’t the only big name in Hollywood to get his start with a truck-themed horror movie. Famous director Steven Spielberg’s first film follows a businessman (Dennis Weaver) who suddenly finds himself being chased and terrorized by a mostly-unseen big rig driver. Considered one of the greatest films ever made for television, this fast paced and exciting thriller puts a new spin on the high speed chase genre.  

 

Sorcerer (1977) – Available for Rent on Amazon Prime Video 

While on paper this movie might seem like just another big budget film pushed out during the trucking craze, its story is as original and gripping as it was forty years ago. Director William Friedkin (The Exorcist, The French Connection) tells the stories of four criminals from across the globe who are given a second chance at freedom if they can successfully maneuver two trucks full of unstable dynamite (leaking nitroglycerin) up a long and rocky mountain road in order to plug an escalating oil refinery blaze in the Latin American jungle. This action-packed adventure film is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, and might just inspire you to say yes to carrying a future high-risk, high-reward freight.  

 

Big Rig (2007) – Available for Rent on Google Play or for Free in Full on YouTube 

Probably the most famous documentary focusing on long-haul truckers, this movie is also a study of everyday American life. The film features the stories of truck drivers from across the country who share their experiences and struggles. This documentary does a great job at showing the people behind the wheel of one of America’s most important jobs, and it’s sure to resonate with any viewer, truck driver or not.  

 

They Drive by Night (1940) – Available for Rent on Amazon Prime Video 

While a movie this old might not appeal to everyone, it’s on this list for a reason. Not only does it star the talented Humphrey Bogart and Ann Sheridan, it’s an exciting story about two brothers and a hard-talking waitress who come together to solve a murder and find romance on the open road. Full of thrills and an early look at the growing trucking industry, this movie is sure to stand out to any trucker movie fan.  

 

Smokey and the Bandit (1978) – Available for Streaming on Netflix 

What list could be complete without this trucker classic? The movie that kicked off the cultural craze for truckers and CB radio across the country, this Burt Reynolds hit follows two bootleggers smuggling Coors beer from Texarkana to Atlanta. Filled with high-speed chase scenes, hilarious run-ins with the law, and some iconic lines, Smokey and the Bandit is a classic for a reason.  

 

We love trucking movies and would love to hear about some of your favorites. Connect with us on social media to share your favorite trucking movies with us today!  

Wreaths Across America: What Truck Drivers Should Know About the Tradition

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Wreaths Across America

While we have Veterans Day to honor the living, and Memorial Day to remember the fallen, our service members shouldn’t only be thought about twice a year. They sacrifice their comfort to ensure our freedom every day of the year, including during the holidays.  

That’s why Wreaths Across America was founded. The organization makes it their mission to honor the service members who are across seas and remember those who are no longer with us by laying wreaths at their headstones during the holiday season.  

Here’s what truck drivers should know about the time-honored tradition, including its history, and how they can get involved.  

What is Wreaths Across America?

Wreaths Across America describes their overall mission in three simple words, “Remember, Honor, and Teach.” Remember our fallen U.S Veterans, honor those who have served, and teach your children the value of freedom.”  

Each year, a day in December is set aside as Wreaths Across America day. This day is usually the second- or third-day Saturday of the month. On that day, the organization coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at thousands of U.S cemeteries across all fifty states, including Arlington National Cemetery. 

What’s the History of Wreaths Across America?

Wreaths Across AmericaIn 1992, after finding his company had a surplus of wreaths after the holiday season, Morrill Worcester, owner of the Worcester Wreath Company made a large donation of 5,000 wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery. Worcester continued making donations like this for the next 15 years, and it eventually caught on to the point that thousands of other people wanted to join in on the good cause.  

In 2007, Worcester officially founded Wreaths Across America, and the organization has been donating thousands of wreaths every year since. 

How can Truck Drivers Get Involved with Wreaths Across America?

  While everybody can get involved with Wreaths Across America by donating a wreath, truck drivers are unique in their ability to help even more. Through their carrier, truck drivers can volunteer as drivers for Wreaths Across America, transporting wreaths to locations where their events are held.  

Drive My Way client, NFI is one of the carriers that has truck drivers who volunteer for Wreaths Across America during the holiday season.  

NFI driver and National Guardsman, Jason is one of these drivers. Here’s what he had to say about his involvement with the organization, 

“I like that NFI really appreciates their drivers, just as much as the National Guard appreciated what I did for them. Like in the military, without your lower enlisted, you don’t have a service. Here at NFI, if you don’t have drivers, you’re not going to have a company.” 

Drivers who are interested in volunteering for Wreaths Across America should reach out to their carrier to see if they’re able to donate their time for the cause.  

And while not all truck drivers may be able to drive for Wreaths Across America, that doesn’t mean they can’t still be involved. Truck drivers can always choose to sponsor one wreath or multiple wreaths.

They can dedicate their wreath to honoring a veteran who’s still with us, in memory of a fallen hero, or choose to not dedicate their wreath, and instead remember all who have served.  

The organization also has an online shop where you can purchase clothes, branded items, and wreaths that you can hang on your own door.  

two men in a truck

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The Rise of Truck Driving Simulators

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truck driving simulatorsWhen you think of popular video games, titles like Madden, Call of Duty, or Super Mario probably come to mind. What you’re probably not thinking about are games that simulate what it’s like to drive a semi-truck.

Even with the popular games that center around driving, they’re action-packed racing games like Gran Turismo or classic go-karters like Mario Kart. But surprisingly, there’s a growing market for video games that simulate the experience of driving a semi-truck. 

Here’s what you need to know about these truck driving simulators, including what are the most popular titles, what you can do in the games, and why people are playing them.  

What are Truck Driving Simulators?

A truck driving simulator is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a video game that puts the player in control of a semi-truck.

These games attempt to give players a realistic experience of what it would be like to drive an actual semi-truck. You’re not racing other semi-trucks on the highway or engaging in a demolition derby, but doing what everyday truck drivers do; deliver goods from point A to point B.  

What are the Different Truck Driving Simulators?

https://store.steampowered.com/app/270880/American_Truck_Simulator/There are a few different truck driver simulation games out there, but the most popular is American Truck Simulator. The game came out in 2016 but is still going strong with new maps and areas being added all the time. Right now, you can travel across the entire western united states from Washington state all the way down to Texas.  

American Truck Simulator is actually a sequel to another game that came out in 2012, Euro Truck Simulator 2. That game is the same concept as the American version, except you’re driving through Europe in European models of trucks. 

There are some other truck driving simulators as well, like Truck Driver, Snow Runner, and On the Road. But, most players agree that American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2 are the gold standard. 

Why are People Playing Them?

So, you might be thinking, “Why would somebody want to play a video game like this?” After all, there are games where you can be a professional athlete, medieval warrior, mobster, or anything else you can think of. So, what’s so exciting about a game where you drive a semi-truck? 

For many players, it’s the chance to live out the American dream of hitting the open road and making your own money (in a virtual sense). Players can then use that money to upgrade their truck, buy new cab amenities, or purchase a brand-new truck altogether.  

The games give the player total freedom of what kind of truck driver they want to be. They can choose what loads to pick up, how many (if any) loads they’ll pick up, or they can choose to just drive around and enjoy the sights of the open road.  

Truck driving simulators aren’t as faced-past or action-packed as other games, but that’s what players enjoy about them. They’re calming and almost therapeutic to play, unlike many high-intensity video games out there right now.  

This is why simulators games of all types are becoming increasingly popular with people who want to use video games to get away from the stress of everyday life, not add to it.  

What are the Features of Truck Driving Simulators?

Truck driving simulators give players the chance to try out a number of different semi-truck brands and models. American Truck Simulator lets players choose their own truck model and features the biggest brands in trucking, including Peterbilt, Mack, Freightliner, Volvo, Kenworth, International, and Western Star. Additionally, players can choose to add real-life carrier logos and decals to their trucks if they want. 

As far as the gameplay of trucking simulators goes, most agree that they’re fairly difficult. The games try to mimic the actual difficulty of driving a semi-truck and trailer in tow. (You can even pull doubles and triples if you’re looking for a harder challenge). Players are faced with obstacles that real truck drivers face, like backing up in crowded yards, or navigating through narrow city streets.  

The popularity of trucking simulators shows that people are still interested in the world of trucking, even if they’re not truck drivers themselves. These games can give players a sense of appreciation and understanding for what it takes to be a truck driver. Who knows, they may even convince some players to become actual truck drivers themselves.  

two men in a truck

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