Thinking About Becoming a Reefer Driver? Here’s What You Need to Know First

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The decision to become a truck driver is not as easy as applying to any posting and starting at a random carrier.  

 

Every truck driver knows they must work hard to receive their CDL before they have to decide what sector of the industry they’d like to enter. Some jobs, like boom truck operating, require an additional certification or training. Some trucking jobs will take you across the country, while others stay local.  

 

If you’re looking for a truck driving job that has higher than average earning potential, ample job opportunities nationwide, and less downtime between jobs, then reefer, or refrigerated, driving might be the position for you. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know if you’re considering becoming a truck driver hauling temperature-controlled freight. 

 

What are the Benefits of Delivering Refrigerated Freight? 

Because it is a speciality skill to monitor the temperature and functions of a refrigerated trailer, reefer drivers often receive higher pay per mile on average than other sectors of the trucking industry. This is also due to the growing demand for frozen or climate-controlled items, which means there will be no shortage of job postings across the country.  

 

Being a reefer driver also means having quicker pickup and delivery times, since both are time sensitive. You’ll be making fewer stops at each facility on your route, and reefer drivers usually have less downtime between jobs because as soon as your refrigerated trailer has been emptied, you’ll need to refill it with more freight and continue on. 

 

“At my old driving job, I had a lot more to do,” says Jerry O’Brien, a driver at Piazza Produce Inc. “Now, I just drop the product, get it signed or checked in, and leave. I’ve also been able to get to know more about all types of food.”  

 

There are also diverse job opportunities available to skilled reefer drivers. You could deliver to grocery stores, or you might deliver produce to gourmet restaurants. Some reefer drivers deliver scientific equipment that need to be maintained at very specific temperatures, while others carry freight that are stored in unique places like the climate-controlled caves under Springfield, MO. 

  

What Are the Cons? 

Every job has its downsides, and they are just as important to consider as the benefits when pursuing a career. For a specialized position like delivering refrigerated freight, there are a few considerations to think about before applying to your first position.  

 

Reefer driving can be more stressful than other trucking sectors because of the added responsibility of monitoring and maintaining the refrigerated trailer temperature. Safeguarding perishable goods is an essential part of this kind of driving, which means ensuring that the temperature constantly remains within a specified range.  

 

Although reefer trucks are often the newest and most advanced in a fleet, the risk of mechanical error can be greater, and a greater cause for stress because of the financial loss if the freight isn’t kept at the specified temperature. To avoid refrigerated unit problems, which could affect the entire load, drivers must be observant, adaptable, and always remain one step ahead in the case of emergencies.  

 

“Weather conditions can be harsh at times for this kind of trucking, but I love it,” said Dalyn Small, a driver for Piazza Produce Inc. “Now when I go to the grocery store, I can tell the difference between parsley and cilantro!” 

 

 

If you’re thinking of entering the trucking industry, or are a veteran driver looking to make a switch between sectors, reefer driving might be the right choice for you. With potential pay benefits, a fast moving schedule, and resumé-building specialized skills, delivering refrigerated freight offers many drivers exactly what they’ve been looking for.  

 

Here at Drive My Way, we are proud to highlight all sectors of the trucking industry. Be sure to keep up with us on social media, or tune into our weekly Truck Driver Blog posts, to find out everything you need to know about the trucking industry in today’s world.  

Tips for Truck Owner Operators for Managing Costs

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The truck driving industry offers a variety of opportunities to drivers, from working at large companies to becoming an owner operator. Truck owner operators enjoy the increased flexibility of being their own boss, but being an owner operator also comes with increased responsibility and financial considerations.  

While being an owner operator may seem like a good fit, it is generally not the best choice for new drivers and even experienced drivers should consider the regulations and costs that will go into operating your own truck/business.  

If becoming an owner operator is the path you have chosen, then it is important to manage costs to ensure you make the most money possible on every job you take.  

How Can Truck Owner Operators Manage Costs?  

  1. Fuel: Arguably one of the biggest costs an owner operator will have to manage, fuel prices are in constant flux, and it is important to have a system in place to save as much money on fuel as possible. On average, an owner operator could spend as much as $70K per year on fuel which is why it is important to save money on fuel by joining fuel reward programs and implementing some of these driving practices to reduce your fuel costs: 
  • Braking responsibly 
  • Lowering speed 
  • Staying in higher gears 
  • Minimizing idling 
  • Reducing RPMs   
  1. Truck Maintenance: When you are the owner operator, your truck is now solely your responsibility From the truck payment to the ongoing maintenance, you must now take care of everything to ensure not only your safety, but your ability to move freight. Next to fuel, maintenance is the biggest expense truck owner operators will face, especially regularly replacing tires. Owner operators should conduct thorough pre and post inspections on every trip to ensure no maintenance issues get overlooked. 
  2. Insurance: For company drivers, insurance is covered by their employer for the truck and most also offer health insurance. As an owner operator, you are responsible for the insurance on your truck and also your own health insurance. Insurance premiums can vary wildly depending on the type and coverage level you choose, so it is important to compare rates and select the policies that are right for your budget. Remember having a lower premium also means you will have a higher deductible, which isn’t always lucrative should you get into an accident.
  3. Taxes: Tax regulations are different for owner operators because unlike a company driver, truck owner operators are considered independent contractors and self-employed. This means in addition to state and federal income tax, you will also be accountable for paying self-employment tax. As you set aside tax from your income, it is vital to make sure you are setting aside enough money to cover all your tax obligations.
  4. Food/Drinks: As with any trip on the road, one of the biggest expenses is food and drink. Truck owner operators can easily save money by buying groceries and preparing their own meals on the road versus eating out at restaurants or rest stops for every meal. This small adjustment can save thousands of dollars each year and give you the opportunity to get creative with your cooking while on the road.

We also had the chance to speak with an owner/operator, Andy Robinson, who gave us some of his best tips for managing costs:

“Driving 68 mph instead of 70 mph will save you a little over one gallon of fuel per mile…and it only costs you around 25 minutes longer in drive time on a 600-mile trip! The average week is around 3,000 miles with ~50 weeks driving a year – money saved is money earned! 

If the O/O pays their own fuel, use the Mad Flap App. It saves around 40-50 cents per gallon.

NEVER miss your PM service when it’s that time! Your truck is your money maker!” 

He then concluded by saying, “Wheels aren’t turning, moneys not churning!” 

 

Are you interested in learning more about being an owner operator? Be sure to check out our driver blog for tips for truck owner operators, company drivers, and more. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all of our updates here at Drive My Way.  

Are You a Student Driver? Here Are 3 Tips for Landing Your First Trucking Job

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Once you have made the decision to become a truck driver and you are working on your CDL, you will inevitably wonder about what it will be like once you start looking for your first trucking job. With so many companies and types of jobs to choose from it may seem a bit overwhelming. Drive My Way provides a vast number of resources and information to students and established drivers alike, which can provide you with a starting point as you begin looking for your first trucking job.  

The three most important tips we have for student drivers looking to land their first trucking job are: do your research, build a network, and keep your options open.  

Do Your Research: As with any new job hunt, the first step for a student driver is to do research on potential employers and create a list of companies that offer positions and benefits that align with your personal preferences and goals. You will also want to determine whether you want to work for a large carrier, small carrier, public or a privately owned company.  

Some key qualities to look for in a trucking employer include: 

  • Compensation 
  • Benefits 
  • Training/Mentoring 
  • Opportunities for Advancement 
  • Home Time/Schedule  
  • PTO 
  • Driving Distance  

For any company you research, make sure to read testimonials of current and past employees to get an idea of whether it will be a good fit for you.  

Build a Network: From the time you begin truck driving school, you will be encountering several people, from other students to instructors. It is important to build a network with everyone you meet, because you never know who could be a referral for your first job, or when you want to change jobs down the road. As a first-time truck driver, you will also meet people on the road who will be important contacts to maintain for the future.  

Keep Your Options Open: Whether you are a rookie or a veteran in the trucking industry, it is always a good idea to keep your options open when it comes to finding, and getting hired, for a new trucking position. This is especially true for student truck drivers looking for their first opportunity. Even if the job you are researching is not a perfect fit, it is always worth applying for and finding out more information about the role. Student truck drivers may also benefit from applying for team driving jobs, which would allow them to gain vital experience and skills alongside a more seasoned driver. By keeping your options open, you give yourself the best chance of finding a position immediately after receiving your CDL.  

Drive My Way offers job listings for student truck drivers who are looking for their first trucking job and can provide additional support in landing a job that best fits with their lifestyle. For more information about our program, please create a Free Driver Profile with us today! We look forward to helping you find your first job in the exciting and evolving trucking industry.  

Drive My Way Customers Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

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If there’s one job that deserves a week of recognition, celebration, and appreciation, it’s commercial truck driving. With drivers throughout the country responsible for transporting over 70% of the United States freight, it’s fair to say our world wouldn’t be the same without each and every driver across the nation.  

 

Each year, Driver Appreciation Week provides the perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate the tireless commitment of commercial drivers around the country. Here at Drive My Way, we’ve noticed that many of our customers have found creative and thoughtful ways to uplift their drivers with gifts, fun games, and heartfelt messages. 

 

Keep reading to find out how our customers are shining the spotlight on their drivers this appreciation week, and how they keep the recognition going year round.  

 

Goody bags, prizes, and more! 

Presents don’t have to be limited to birthdays or the holiday season any more! This September 10-16, many companies will provide their drivers with unique merchandise, useful tools, or fun spirit wearto show their appreciation. A personalized gift is a thoughtful way for carriers to recognize your hard work and show how much they care.  

 

Company merchandise is a great way to show drivers how important they are to the mission, such as Go-To Transport’s tumbler.

This year, drivers at Go-To Transport can look forward to receiving a fun collection of company merchandise from display tables set up at their locations throughout the country. A Go-To tumbler, pen, and personal thank you card will be available to every company driver that stops by throughout the week. Drivers will also be able to choose between either a baseball cap, beanie, or a hoodie, depending on supplies.  

 

Drivers for NFI Industries are sure to enjoy choosing from a wide range of fun gear this appreciation week too. With locations across the country and over 4,500 team members, NFI has stepped up by offering company hats, shirts, duffle bags, lunch boxes and more!  

 

Meanwhile, Schwend, Inc. is utilizing its four locations across the South to set up stations for drivers to receive goody bags and door prizes this appreciation week. Prizes will range from Schwend merchandise to tickets for a weekend vacation!  

At each location, Schwend will also be setting up a breakfast and lunch serving station, where drivers can receive a home cooked meal each day of appreciation week. But for any driver that isn’t able to make it to a company terminal, there’s no need to worry! Schwend will offer to cover a few meals throughout the week for any driver out on the road.  

 

Do Something Nice 

At each location, Schwend will also be setting up a breakfast and lunch serving station, where drivers can receive a home cooked meal each day of appreciation week. But for any driver that isn’t able to make it to a company terminal, there’s no need to worry! Schwend will offer to cover a few meals throughout the week for any driver out on the road.  

 

Words of Appreciation  

You can never hear ‘thank you’ too often. For many commercial truck drivers, they aren’t told it enough. This Driver Appreciation Week, many carriers will be sending out a thoughtful message or organizing an exciting event to make sure their drivers know their hard work never goes unnoticed.   

 

The management team at Go-To Transport has been busy working with their marketing division to create a video of thank you messages for drivers to go on company social media pages. Hearing words of appreciation directly from management helps keep drivers invested in the company mission by highlighting the direct impact they have through their hard work.  

 

At NFI, it’s clear they know food is the way to everyone’s heart. Besides offering catered breakfast and lunch throughout the week, the company will be holding BBQ cookouts and picnics with food trucks, snow cone trucks, and raffle giveaways to celebrate their hardworking drivers across the country. 

 

At Schwend, their late summer employee appreciation picnics act as an extension of Driver Appreciation Week each year with cash prizes, CB radio giveaways, games, and more. Held at their Jasper, TN, and Dade City, FL, terminals, the picnics are open for all Schwend employees but focus on drivers and their families.  

 

Driver Appreciation Week is an annual reminder of the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of commercial drivers across the nation. It’s a time to recognize and celebrate drivers, and to highlight the incredible contributions they make each day to the economy and our way of life. This is something to be celebrated and appreocaited every day of the year! 

 

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

 

Should I Become a Truck Driver?

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Should I become a truck driver? It’s a common question for anyone who is considering a change of career and is interested in the transportation and shipping industry. Perhaps you have your CDL but want to pursue a job as a truck driver over driving a bus. Regardless of what led you to this question, it is important to consider whether it is a good fit for you before becoming a truck driver.  

Top 5 Reasons to Become a Truck Driver 

A career in truck driving is extremely rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Some of the top reasons that drivers have shared with us about why they became truck drivers are listed below. 

  1. Ideal Job for People from Different Walks of Life: There is no set profile for a truck driver. The industry has become incredibly diverse and people from all different walks of life choose to become truck drivers. People fresh out of high school consider it as a career, but for many people it is a 2nd, 3rd, or even 4th career that they arrive at in their middle age. Truck driving is a great career option for both men and women, people from different educational backgrounds, and is especially an ideal job for veterans. No two truck driver stories are the same, which is why it is a career that appeals to a wide variety of people.
  2. Opportunity to Travel: If you have ever wanted to get on the road and see different parts of the country, then trucking is the perfect career choice for you. Many people choose a career as a truck driver solely for this purpose. If your company allows guests to accompany you on your truck, then it is also a great opportunity to show your family other states as well. 
  3. Independent or Team Environment: The beauty of trucking is that you can be as independent or social as you want while working. For those who crave freedom, minimal supervision, and nothing but solace and the open road, driving solo is a great career fit. If you would prefer not to be alone, you can consider a team driving job which allows you to drive with another person, which can be a friend or even your spouse. Depending on what kind of job you would prefer, there is something for everyone in the world of trucking. 
  4. Job Stability: Companies are always looking to boost their roster with experienced, quality truck drivers, which makes trucking a stable field which is largely in demand. Trucking is an essential industry and when you choose to be a truck driver, you are often able to find work quickly. With the right company, you can also look forward to an array of benefits including opportunities for career advancement, mentorship, competitive compensation, home time, and more. 
  5. Purpose and Focus: Whether you are fresh out of school or looking to change careers later in life, truck driving is a career which can provide you with purpose and focus. Truck driving is a challenging job, but it is full of unique opportunities and provides the chance to contribute to a field that is vital to communities across America. 

At Drive My Way, we are proud to help drivers across the nation find the right trucking job that matches their unique needs. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay updated with new job openings and exciting announcements.  

Everything You Need to Know About Being a Boom Truck Operator

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If you’re looking to diversify your driving experience and stand out to employers, becoming a boom truck operator might be the right move for you. This unique driving position requires an additional training certification, but often results in increased pay and a wider variety of available jobs.  

 

Boom trucks are used in a range of industry settings, and can be a great investment if you’re looking to own and operate your own truck. The certification process only takes a few hours and is widely available online. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before becoming a boom truck operator, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.  

 

What is a Boom Truck? 

By definition, a boom truck is a commercial truck with a hydraulic crane attached to its chassis. There are many variations on this basic structure that enable boom trucks to be useful for a range of different jobs. The two primary types of truck are fixed cab and swing cab vehicles, which are classified depending on the mobility and positioning of the cabin.  

 

A fixed cabin boom truck will contain one cab with all of the controls for the crane. This means that these trucks operate much like a standard truck, allowing them to have a smaller size that can make maneuverability easier.  

 

There are also downsides to a stationary cab, including visibility issues. This is where a swing cab boom truck comes into play. With a longer structure, these trucks have a separate cab for the operator which offers better visibility and flexibility when lifting. Swing cabs are often favored by construction companies, since they are better for more intricate jobs.  

 

Which Boom Truck is Right for You? 

Beyond the two primary types of boom truck, there are a few other variations. It’s important to know the different kinds of boom trucks so you can choose the right one for you.  

 

Sometimes referred to as a boom truck crane or a boom crane, this type of truck has a telescopic arm and usually works similar to a typical crane to lift and move heavy objects between 10 and 60 tons. 

 

Another type of boom truck is an articulating lift, which is helpful in jobs where precision is important. Due to the joint in the extension, these trucks are designed to be lightweight and able to maneuver while working in tight spaces. 

 

If your jobs call for lifting people, instead of heavy loads, then a bucket truck is the right choice for you. These trucks are designed with a rising platform where technicians can stand and work while keeping their tools close by. Most bucket trucks have some sort of wall or railing for safety, and some newer trucks are built with a fiberglass cabin to further improve worker safety.  

 

 

Flexibility, experience, and having the ability to develop new skills are all extremely important in the career of every truck driver. In today’s competitive market, it is more important than ever to stand out to employers by increasing your marketable talents. Being able to drive specialized vehicles, such as boom trucks, is a great way to differentiate yourself from your competition and increase the scope of jobs for which you are qualified.   

 

Although driving a boom truck requires its own certification, plenty of companies will make it worth the effort with incentives and bonuses for having this skill.  

 

Here at Drive My Way, we’re always looking to find and promote tools that could be beneficial to any trucker. Read more from our Driver Blog to learn essential tips and resources, and be sure to reach out to us on social media if there’s anything we missed! 

Is a Dry Bulk Tank Job Right for Me?

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Are you looking for a new truck driving position? Perhaps you want to learn new skills and switch to a specialty job? Within the trucking industry, there are many different types of jobs, some of which require additional training and/or certification but may afford you the opportunity to learn new skills, carry different types of freight, and travel different routes. One option is transporting dry bulk tanks.  

Dry bulk tank jobs offer unique benefits, but they also have special requirements that other types of job do not, including cleaning the tank (in some cases) and understanding how to unload the material you are hauling.  

Types of Dry Bulk Tanks 

Dry bulk tanks are used for the transport of dry materials including food grade, industrial, and construction materials. Unlike traditional tankers, dry bulk tanks do not carry liquid or gas. Common materials transported in dry bulk tanks include: 

  • Plastic or resin pellets 
  • Sand
  • Cement 
  • Sugar  
  • Flour  
  • Starch  
  • Chemical powders  

This type of tanker is also known as a pneumatic tanker and is typically manufactured as a single compartment tank, made of aluminum or steel. Dry bulk tanks are vacuum sealed and have openings on the top and bottom of the cylinders for both loading and unloading of the materials. Space within a dry bulk tank is measured in cubic feet and most tankers have a capacity between 560 – 3120 cubic feet. Depending on how much material they hold, dry bulk tanks are usually referred to as “small cube” or “large cube.” Dry bulk tanks are excellent for transporting a variety of materials since they prevent contamination and are easy to load and unload.  

Safety Concerns with Dry Bulk Tanks  

Unlike a dry van trailer, dry bulk tankers have a high center of gravity, which allows for materials to shift during transport. Shifts in weight like this are not something all drivers are familiar with, so it is important to take care while learning how to drive these types of loads. Some other safety concerns include falls while climbing on the tanks during the unloading process. It is vital for drivers to exercise caution and take preventative measures to avoid falls including having sufficient lighting (for night runs), wearing non-slip shoes, and using available handrails and lanyard attachments.  

A Day in the Life of a Dry Bulk Tank Driver  

We recently interviewed Shelly Kroesen, a driver recruiter from Dart America, one of several companies partnering with Drive My Way to hire dry bulk tank drivers, to see what a job as a dry bulk tank driver typically entails.  

Can you tell us about the type of tankers used at Dart America and what they’re hauling?   

We haul pneumatic tankers and dump trailers. We haul carbon in bulk for Calgon Carbon. Carbon is used in filtration, including water filtration.  

What are the driver’s responsibilities?  

The driver drives and hooks hoses from the tank or dump to the customer’s vessel upon arrival. The driver is typically out of the truck for 4-7 hours during unloading. The driver must be able to get on top of the tanker to close the man ways.  

What are some general tips or things to know for drivers interested in or already hauling tankers?  

What we haul is used in filtration, so it is recession proof. I can’t ever see a time that filtered water would not be used. 

Any other comments or feedback on tankers?  

This is not hard work, but it does take time, attention, and common sense.  

 

When it comes to trucking there are many different types of jobs available and unique types of freight you could haul. Are you interested in a new trucking position? Check out available jobs with our partners today!  

Must-Read Safety Advice for Every Female Truck Driver

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There’s a reason there are blogs, social media pages, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to the safety of female truck drivers. While safety should be every driver’s top priority, women in the trucking industry face unique discrimination and threats to their safety that are serious and continuing to evolve.  

 

Although women have been pioneers in the commercial driving industry since its origins in the early 1900s, they have had to fight for progress and recognition, as well as for support against safety threats. Modern times have seen improvements in equality behind the wheel, but many female truck drivers still feel like they’re on their own to protect themselves at truck stops and in other industry settings. Keep reading if you’re looking for necessary tips to avoid dangerous situations as a woman in the trucking business.  

 

Modern Times Means Modern Threats 

Unfortunately, as technology and ideas continue to develop over time, so do the people who abuse them. One threat that is increasingly dangerous for women in the trucking industry is human trafficking.  

 

Truck stops are often safe, relaxing places that give all members of the trucking community a much needed recharge and refuel point. However, they can also be used as points to mark and target solo truck drivers as potential victims, and as stopping points for traffickers already transporting kidnapped women and children.  

 

Many veteran female truck drivers have potentially life saving tips to avoid dangerous situations that they use no matter where they are.

A solo female truck driver found this zip tie on her air line at a truck stop in the eastern US, a known signal for human traffickers marking a potential victim.

One driver, who will not be identified for her safety, was recently at a truck stop and noticed a zip tie had been put on her emergency air line while she was sleeping. This is a known signal for traffickers, along with tissues, paper, and other small, intentionally placed markers.  

 

If you encounter something like this, do not attempt to remove the marker on your own. Traffickers sometimes use drugs that can be absorbed through skin contact alone. In a situation like this, it is recommended to get to a safe location immediately and call the police. If this seems dramatic, consider that making a decision like this could be the difference between life or death.  

 

Tips and Tricks from Women in the Field  

Human trafficking is not the only safety threat that female truckers face. Here at Drive My Way, we have compiled advice that real women in the trucking industry have shared on social media and blogs for how they remain safe and comfortable while still getting the job done.  

 

Some of the most important and widely shared tips explain how a woman driving solo can make it appear as if she isn’t alone. Making it appear as if you have a driving partner, husband, or even dog can be an easy and effective way to protect yourself at truck stops or in other uncomfortable situations.  

 

  • If someone asks, say your partner (or dog!) is sleeping in the cab. For this to be the most effective, keep the curtain drawn on your sleeper so no one looking in can tell. If you’re feeling especially uncomfortable in a setting, you might want to pretend to have a conversation with whoever is “behind the curtain.” 
  • Wear a wedding ring. 
  • Order two plates of food/drinks to bring back to the cab.  
  • When entering your cab, knock on the door as if someone is inside, then discreetly open the door yourself.  

 

Many women have also shared tips that they practice at all times to maintain their safety.  

 

  • Always check your trailer when you come back for anything out of the ordinary, and lock it before you leave, even if just fueling.  
  • Park as close to the truck stop as you can, and only in well lit areas.  
  • Limit your distractions when outside of your truck, so you can always be aware of your surroundings. This might mean staying off your phone and always being alert.  
  • Consider protection for yourself, such as bear/wasp spray, mace, or a dog (if your company allows it!) 
  • Wear baggy clothing if you are especially uncomfortable in a setting.  

 

 

It is a sad reality that female truck drivers face threats to their safety across the country. However, it is important to be aware of this disparity to continue the fight for increased safety regulations and improvements to truck stop security. Women are a fast growing minority in the trucking industry, but there is still a long way to go.  

 

Are there any safety tips we missed? Which truck stops make you feel the most comfortable and safe? Please let us know on our social media so we can continue to share information that helps make the trucking industry equal for every driver.  

Essential Tips for Truck Driver Safety

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Operation Safe Driver Week takes place every year to create awareness around safe driving habits for both passenger and commercial motorists. In honor of Operation Safe Driver Week taking place July 9-15, 2023, the team at Drive My Way compiled this list of essential tips for truck driver safety from pre-trip planning to post-trip inspections.   

When it comes to protecting yourself on the road, there are several factors to consider before you leave, while you are traveling, and once you reach your destination.  

Prior to Hitting the Road  

Truck driver safety starts before you even turn your rig on and get out on the road. By following these tips before you leave, you can help set yourself up for a successful haul.  

  1. Prioritize Your Health: Regardless of what happens on the road, you will be better prepared to handle whatever comes your way by ensuring you get enough rest prior to leaving. By taking good care of yourself, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, you will be physically and mentally ready for your next trip. 
  2. Have a Game Plan: It is important to take time before your trip to plan your route, check weather forecasts and road conditions, make note of any areas with construction or low bridges, and plan for any alternate routes should adverse conditions occur. If you are traveling a route that is known to have high winds for example, it is important to remember to stay close to the shoulder and reduce your speed. It is also important to know when to wait out poor conditions rather than pushing through and putting yourself and others in danger. Now is also the time to make sure your rig is up to date for maintenance, and you have an emergency kit on board.
  3. Create a Comfortable Environment: No matter the distance, you want to make sure you are comfortable for the trip. We recommend having good music/podcast to listen to, plenty of water and healthy snacks, and making adjustments to your seat to ensure you are as comfortable as possible. Mapping out locations for your breaks will also help you stay on track and avoid being behind the wheel for too long at once. 

 

Truck Driver Safety on the Road  

Once you have begun your trip, there are several ways to ensure that your drive is as pleasant as possible, with few complications.  

  1. Pay Attention to the Little Things: While there are basic practices that every trucker knows like the back of their hand, it is also a good reminder to pay attention to the routine behaviors such as doing your pre-trip inspection, wearing your seatbelt, turning headlights on at appropriate times of day, using turn signals, and checking your mirrors. Some of them items seem so routine that they may get missed, especially if you are feeling fatigue, but they are something police officers are heightened to checking during Operation Safe Driver Week, and during summer travel in general, so it always good to be take note.Rookie drivers are especially susceptible to these types of errors, so whether you are mentoring a new driver, or working a team driving job, it is always helpful to remind your partner. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has several tips like these to help truckers stay safe on the road.
  2. Stay Alert: It is vital to stay alert during your drive to ensure you are able to handle changes as they come on the road. Whether it is safely changing lanes, watching blind spots, driving in construction zones, or practicing defensive driving, you will want to make sure you are alert and ready to handle evolving conditions. Defensive driving equips you with the tools needed to stay as safe as possible, reducing the risk of an incident by taking control of how you show up to the day’s drive. Unlike offensive driving, defensive driving allows you to let others adjust their driving based on your actions, rather than you reacting to them. This can reduce road rage, as well as reduce questionable liability in accidents with four wheels.

Staying alert also applies to stops just as much as it does while driving. Single drivers, especially women, are often targets on the road, so it is important to take note of your environment, report strange people or incidents to the proper authorities, and avoid truck stops that are not well-traveled.  

  1. Maintain Speed and Distance: The foundation of safe driving is consistency, so maintaining your speed and distance will go a long way in creating a safe drive for not only yourself, but for all the other drivers on the road with you. According to the FMCSA, two significant factors in large truck crashes include drivers traveling too fast for the conditions and drivers following too closely. Other common moving violations include:
  • Improper lane changes 
  • Improper turns 
  • Failure to yield to right of way 
  • Reckless driving 
  • Failure to obey a traffic control device  
  • Railroad grade crossing violations  

Safety Doesn’t Stop at Your Destination  

Even after you reach your destination, there are several truck driver safety tips to consider. 

  1. Check for Safe Parking: Once you get to your destination, make sure you have a safe spot to pull into before parking your truck. A previous truck may have even left a path that you can follow to safely park your rig. Once you have parked, make sure that your headlights are turned off and that you have locked everything up. 
  2. Take Care Unloading Freight: Your cargo may have shifted during the drive, so it’s important to take care when opening the door. If you are lifting any items, make sure to bend and lift with your knees to avoid throwing your back out. It is also vital to remember to check for workers and other drivers before closing doors or moving your truck away from the dock. 
  3. Inspect Your Truck and Call It a Day: Every company requires post-trip inspections, so it is important to complete these before retiring for the day. Items on these inspections may include checking for flat tires, checking fluid levels, ensuring all headlights are working, etc. You may also need to record any damage that your rig sustained during the trip, especially if you encountered poor weather conditions, such as hail or high winds. For new truck drivers, these steps are especially important as you familiarize yourself with your truck and completing hauls. 

Operation Safe Driver Week is an opportunity to remember these truck driver safety tips to ensure safe hauls every time you get out on the road.  

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!