Dec 23, 2020 • Community

Christmas for Truckers

Christmas for Truckers

Christmas for Truckers

Trucking is a demanding job that requires round the clock commitment. It is often several months before truck drivers can meet their friends and family, which also means that most truckers spend their time on the road during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other major holidays.

However, there is no need to worry if you are a truck driver out on the field during the holiday season. There are still ways to enjoy the Christmas spirit.

Christmas on the Road

You are not alone during the holidays, especially with all the other truckers who share the same grief. There are always a few feasts going on at truck stops, where you can either eat for free or get massive discounts.

You may also enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner with your family and friends before or after Christmas Day. It is not necessary to match the exact dates since it is the thought that counts.

So, this Thanksgiving, we’d like to give thanks to our hard working truckers out there. Because of you, we enjoy delicious Thanksgiving meals and have goodies to look forward to every Black Friday. If we bought it, truckers brought it.

Trucker Gift Suggestions

Here are some gift suggestions you may give to fellow truckers.

Weighted Blanket – These blankets can help calm a restless body, reduce feelings of anxiety, and improve sleep troubles.

Beanie Hat – Helps warm during winter

Personalized Mud Flaps – Drive in style with these.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas, if you can’t be with family, there are a lot of ways to still enjoy the holiday mood. You can make this Christmas memorable by giving others some gifts, planning a delightful Christmas dinner with your best trucking buddies, or volunteering together at a truck stop to make the rookie drivers feel at home. Christmas is a time to be grateful for all the blessings you have received all year. Counting your blessings and thinking about all the good things that happened to you in the past year can help promote positivity and good vibes.

Lastly, all of us from Trucker Path, would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas!

How will you spend your Christmas? Share your plans in the comments section below.

By Aldous Aldwin

TagsTruck Driver truck drivers Owner Operator trucking Trucker Path Trucking Industry Owner Operators Trucking Tips christmas

Industry Update - April 19, 2019 <h5>By Jeremy Feucht</h5> <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Did you Know?</u></strong></h3> By volume, Isuzu is the largest commercial truck manufacturer in the US averaging around 450,000 per year. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Trucking tip of the Week</u></strong></h3> Its that time of year where fuel costs begin their yearly ascent. Fuel economy is always a concern and the biggest factor to your bottom line. 55mph is the efficient speed for your truck. While you probably drive fast in order to keep other drivers happy (and to keep ahead of your logs, get to your next load, or finish your current load),remember that you use 27% more fuel when driving at 75mph instead of 65mph. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Human Trafficking</u></strong></h3> Truckers Against Trafficking <a href="https://www.kjct8.com/content/news/Trucking-industry-tackles-the-topic-of-human-trafficking-with--508771901.html">made a stop in Grand Junction, CO</a> this week. Their mobile exhibit has been made to not only create awareness in local communities about what to look for in a human trafficking scenario, but to engage truckers to fight against trafficking as well. Truckers are seen as a key cog in stopping human trafficking as their travel takes them to many places and brings them in contact with more people and situations than the average American. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Alternative Fuel</u></strong></h3> <a href="http://www.capradio.org/articles/2019/04/18/power-companies-want-to-build-charging-stations-along-california-freeways-to-move-the-trucking-industry-to-electric-vehicles/">Power companies in California</a> are looking into pushing truckers towards electric vehicles. The plan is to conduct a study that would determine how practical adding charging stations from Seattle to San Diego along I-5. The idea is to reduce smog. The hope is that these stations can charge a big-rig battery in about 30 minutes for drivers looking to get on the road quicker and have options for a slower charger for drivers who are parked overnight. As of now, no electric vehicle has boasted the power potential yet to become a viable option for long haul truckers. <h3></h3> <h3><strong><u>Technology</u></strong></h3> One alternative fuel that does claim to have enough power, is hydrogen. Hydrogen produces electricity and water vapor, making it ecofriendly. The bigger issue is how and where to fuel and the overall cost of the truck. <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/finance/news/nikola-motor-unveils-truckings-hydrogen-future/ar-BBW2aJr">Nikola held a conference</a> to show off their new inventions this week in Scottsdale, AZ. With over 2000 viewers, Nikola announced they have solved the power issue of electric vehicles and are actively working on the issue with refueling. Refueling is believed to take about 20 minutes and the cost to refuel will be worked into the lease payment for the vehicle. The leases will be set for 1 million miles or 84 months whichever comes first. No details were released about the cost, but claim over <a href="https://www.trucknews.com/equipment/nikola-claims-us12-billion-in-hydrogen-truck-pre-orders/1003088541/">$12 billion</a> in orders have already been placed for their branded trucks.

Apr 19, 2019 • Carriers

How to start your own trucking company [p]If you're looking through articles on how to start a trucking company, chances are that you want to work for yourself. If you have been a trucker for a while and looking to get off the road whilst still staying in the industry, then it's a good idea to start your own business. You can hire drivers, buy trucks and start earning more money! In this article, we will take you through some of the key things to consider when starting your own company.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #1 : Get your license![/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]Whether you're looking to manage drivers or be a driver yourself, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires you to hold a number of licenses before starting your company. Most importantly, you would need to obtain your required trucking authority, which gives you permission to operate trucks over 10,000 gross vehicle weight across different states. Besides the US DOT Number, you would require multiple operating authorities depending on your life of business. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]List of necessary documents:[/b][/p] <h2></h2> <table> <tr> <td>Commercial Driver's License (CDL)</td> <td>Drivers of commercial vehicles are required to obtain a CDL. Costs for a CDL can range from $3000 upwards depending on the state, classes and exams.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>US DOT Number</td> <td>The FMCSA uses a trucking company's DOT number when conducting investigations, inspections, etc. There is no charge for a DOT number application. First-time applicants apply through the Unified Registration System on the FMCSA website. Applications through URS take roughly 20 - 25 business days, subject to further requirements.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Motor Carrier Operating Authority (MC number)</td> <td>You will need to obtain an MC in addition to a DOT Number if you plan to: <ol> <li>Transport passengers in interstate commerce (for a fee or other compensation, whether direct or indirect)</li> <li>Transport federally-regulated commodities owned by others or arranging for their transport, (for a fee or other compensation, in interstate commerce)</li> </ol> In addition, you may need to apply for multiple operating authorities depending on your business. It costs $300 for each MC number. </td> </tr> <tr> <td>BOC - 3 filing</td> <td>This is done by the process agent that you appoint; the BOC - 3 filing must be included for all states that you will be taking loads in.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>International Registration Plan (IRP) credentials and International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) decal</td> <td>If you plan on operating across different states and your vehicles are over 26,000 pounds in weight, then you will need IRP credentials & ITA decals for your trucks. It will generally take between 3-5 days to process both credentials separately. The registration fee for both vary according to state but has a rough average of $1500 - $2000. </td> </tr> </table> <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #2: Legality issues[/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]The FMSCA requires you to have a process agent who will represent you in every state that you travel and work in. Once you find your desired process agent, have them fill in the BOC-3 form (click here Form BOC-3 - Designation of Agents for Service of Process).[/p] [p]When filing in the paperwork, you also need to determine the type of business you want to register your company as. Many factors such as tax filings and legal responsibility may play an important role in the future as your business grows, so It is best to talk to an accountant and lawyer about which type suits your needs best. [/p] [p][b]Step #3 Getting Insured[/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]FMSCA states that you need to have the right papers and insurance before you are given authority to operate. Some of the insurance covers include Public Liability Insurance including freight and passenger insurance, cargo insurance, etc. The exact documents will depend on the type of registration.[/p] <table> <tr> <td>BMC-91 or BMC-91X</td> <td>Public liability insurance (bodily injury/property damage/environmental restoration)</td> <td>The following categories: <ul> <li>Motor Carrier</li> <li>Freight Forwarder (Note: Non-vehicle operating freight forwarders may seek waiver of this requirement.) </li> </ul> </td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> <td></td> <td><ul> <li>Freight:--$750,000 - $5,000,000, depending on commodities transported; $300,000 for non-hazardous freight moved only in vehicles weighing under 10,001 lbs.</li> <li>Passengers:--$5,000,000; $1,500,000 for registrants operating only vehicles with seating capacity of 15 or fewer passengers.</li> </ul> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>BMC-34 or BMC-83</td> <td> <ul> <li>Cargo insurance--$5,000 per vehicle</li> <li>$10,000 per occurrence</li> </ul> </td> <td> <ul> <li>Household Goods Motor Carrier </li> <li>Household Goods Freight Forwarder </li> <ul> </td> <tr> <td>BMC-84 or BMC-85</td> <td> <ul> <li>Surety Bond amount is $75,000</li> <li>Trust Fund Agreement is $75,000</li> </ul> </td> <td> <ul> <li>Freight Forwarder</li> <li>Broker of Freight</li> </ul></td> </tr> <tr> <td>BOC-3</td> <td>Service of Process Agents</td> <td>All Authorities</td> </tr> <tr> <td>MCS-90</td> <td>Endorsement for Motor Carrier</td> <td></td> </tr> </table> <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #4 Time to get a truck[/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]You can choose to lease or buy a truck depending on your financial situation. If you have financial capital and are looking to start a small fleet, getting your trucks from the same dealer might get you a decent discount. You can also consider buying a second-hand truck; however keep in mind that the average cost to repair a truck is $15,000 annually according to ATRI and the number may be higher for second-hand trucks depending on the quality.[/p] [p]Leasing can also be an option, paying monthly in the short term with a single down-payment at the beginning. However, you do not build equity with your payments and at the end of the term, you will own nothing unless you agree on a right to purchase.[/p] [p]Picking the right truck can make the difference between success and failure. Make sure to do your research and if possible, speak to other truck drivers who have become operators for advice.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #5 Get your equipment right[/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]Choosing the type of freight your drivers carry can have a huge impact on how your company grows and earns. There are many equipment models for you to choose from, with flatbed and dry van neing the most common. (Yet to be completed).[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/09/Flatbed-or-Dryvan.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #6 Track your finances[/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]It's important that you set up a system to track your company's income and expenses. As clients within the payment industry often pay weeks or months after a delivery is complete, it may be difficult to track if you are also planning to transport loads and on the road. Here are several tips to keep in mind when starting out - [/p] <ol> <li>Pay clear attention to how and when your clients will pay you.</li> <li>Hire an accountant or use an easy book-keeping softare to track your expenses.</li> <li>Keep your business and personal transatons/bank accounts separate.</li> <li>Keep records of all invoices, receipts and expenses.</li> </ol> <h2></h2> [p][b]Step #7 Time to pick up some loads! [/b][/p] <h2></h2> [p]All set? Now it's time to get your trucks sorted, hire some drivers and start making money! Luckily you don't need to look far as our Truckloads platform will help you out. With more than 200K+ daily loads from certified carriers, it is a great way to find a value-for-money load; and we have included tools that will help you choose better. Download the app now on the Apple Store or Google Play Store and start searching for FREE loads![/p]

Sep 29, 2021 • Community

Trucker Spotlight - Larry Cothran <em>The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path's solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.</em> <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-1.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> Today we are putting the spotlight on <strong>Larry Cothran</strong>, a.k.a. L- Boogie. He's been driving trucks for more than 13 years and is also a businessman. He is the owner and founder of Ministry Marketing Pro. He's also an entrepreneur who has been helping businesses, political leaders and churches leverage the power of social media. <h2></h2> After realizing there was a lack of churches using social media to spread the gospel, he decided to focus his efforts and marketing strategies on churches. <h2></h2> Larry took the knowledge he learned over his 18+ years of studying marketing and advertising and created unique strategies that applied specifically to churches. Let's get to know more about Larry, his trucking life and, his ministry. <h2></h2> <h3></h3> <h3><strong>What made you decide to be a trucker?</strong></h3> Truthfully, I needed a job and I needed something that would be self sustainable. Something that would always be in demand. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-2.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>In the years that you have been driving, what are the significant changes that you've noticed in the trucking industry?</strong></h3> The biggest change has been going from paper logs to e-logs, plus the DEF addition to the trucks. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?</strong></h3> I wanted to help other truckers and entrepreneurs. I wanted to give information because when I started there was a limited amount of people to talk to that would give me truthful information . <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?</strong></h3> Yes. I’ve had to deal with loneliness on the road. When I first started out, I missed Christmas, my son’s first steps, birthdays and etc. I learned to deal with it by watching movies on the laptop, talking with friends and family on the phone. As the times started going, by I would become more useful with the time and use it to study my Bible, create content or counsel different people I met along the way while driving. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-3.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h3><strong>As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?</strong></h3> Having to wear a mask and forgetting to wear a mask. There are limited places to sit down and eat. Mostly everything has to be done in the truck. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's your favorite Truck Brand / Model?</strong></h3> I love the Volvo 780 with the table and bed in it. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-4.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Aside from being a trucker, any other things you dream of doing?</strong></h3> Yes, I love doing marketing for churches, small businesses and politicians so I’m focusing more time on that so that I can eventually transition into full time ministry and become a motivational speaker so that I can share my story to the youth. I’m also a published author with a book called “More Than A Conqueror” which can be purchased on Amazon and I plan on writing more books. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What's the best truck stop for you?</strong></h3> I love going to Loves. It’s clean and friendly. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?</strong></h3> Most common problems are breakdowns and traffic delays, but the biggest is health and weight management. <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/12/ts-larrycothran-blog-5.jpg" alt=""] <h3><strong>What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?</strong></h3> Cars that cut you off and then press the breaks. Distracted driving. There are a lot of people that text and drive and drink and drive. I continually have to drive for 5 which is defensive driving. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>We're glad that you use the Trucker Path app on your day to day trucking. What features do you enjoy the most?</strong></h3> The feature of Trucker Path that tells you how full the truck stop based on the truckers response. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?</strong></h3> First get a mentor. There’s nothing wrong with apprenticeship before ownership. Learn all you can while you’re training and during your 1st year. You won’t make much money the 1st year but if you continue you will make the money you deserve later. Keep your record clean and be safe. <h2></h2> <h3><strong>Where can people watch your videos on Youtube?</strong></h3> They can view my videos on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/fastestfoot">Youtube Channel, L Boogie</a>. <h2></h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K9bQ1RmUZo8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> <h2></h2> Hope you guys enjoy! <h2></h2> <h2></h2> <h4>By Aldous Aldwin</h4> <h3></h3> <h3></h3>

Dec 16, 2020 • Carriers