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[p] There isn’t a single trailer door lock that is universally the absolute best. Many truck drivers have hasps and door hardware that vary in size and functionality; therefore, not every padlock will fit every trailer door. [/p]
[p]However, there are some things you can keep in mind to navigate the winding roads of finding the best trailer door lock to secure your cargo.[/p]
[h2] Type of Locks [/h2]
[p] Most truck door locks must be padlocks based on how the trailer door secures. Often a trailer door will use hardware with a cam action side-bar that fastens into place with a hasp. In order to lock the doors, a padlock must be placed on the hasp.
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[p]Padlocks come with many different profiles, but they have some essential features that are consistent throughout the wide range of products. Though you might know your <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-terms/">trucker terms</a>, here are some other definitions you should be aware of. [/p]
[ul]
[li]<strong>Lock Body - </strong> The thick part of the lock that houses the internal components and lock core.[/li]
[li]<strong>Shackle - </strong> A piece of metal that remains immobilized when the padlock is locked and moves to allow the lock to be removed when the padlock is open.[/li]
[li]<strong>Locking Pawl -</strong> The device keeping the shackle stationary when the padlock is locked and retracts to allow the shackle to move when the padlock is open.[/li]
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[h2]Key Features of a Trailer Door Lock[/h2]
[p]<strong>A Keyway - </strong> Combination padlocks and other such devices that do not use a key are not made to the same security standards as the best keyed-locks on the market. You also run the risk of someone overhearing you mention the combination, seeing you input it, decoding it, etc.[/p]
[p]<strong>Shackle Protection - </strong> A shackle is going to be thinner than the lock body, so you need your shackle to be as covered as possible (which provides greater thickness). You can do this with a padlock that has a puck lock profile or a shackle shroud (both of these terms are used to describe the different ways the thickness of the lock body can extend to cover the shackle).[/p]
[p]<strong>Sturdy Internal Components - </strong> Since the padlock will be outside, exposed to the elements, debris, and sustain stress from the vehicle's movement, the internal components of the lock are at risk of being damaged to the point where the proper key will not open the padlock.[/p]
[p]<strong>Strong Metal - </strong> This should be used on the lock body as well as the shackle. Hardened steel can vary in quality, so it is best to get some sort of alloy steel. Those made with Boron Carbide are some of the best on the market. This helps to ward off cutting and prying attacks.[/p]
[p]<strong>Picking Resistance - </strong> Though most criminals do not pick locks, you do not want someone with little to no training opening your lock quickly and covertly (lockpicking resistance will also equate to bump key resistance). [/p]
[p]<strong>Drill Protection - </strong> Even with a strong padlock with a protected shackle, most lock cores are brass and can be drilled out. Whether it is an anti-drill plate that uses rotating hardened steel or anti-drill pins that deflect drill bits at key drill points, you should have some form of drill protection.[/p]
[p]<strong>Ball Bearings - </strong> The locking pawls for your padlock must be ball bearings. Other forms of locking pawls can be shimmed, which is a simple bypass most people can perform untrained with simple household items.[/p]
[h2] Top Trailer Door Lock Choices [/h2]
[p] As we previously mentioned, there is no one best lock for every use. But as long as you purchase a product with at least most of the specifications listed above, you will be providing your cargo with more protection than many others who are just buying what they can get their hands on at the hardware store.[/p]
[p] Depending on your budget, what you are hauling, and <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/best-truck-stops/">the types of truck stop</a> you will be parking your load, you might need different levels of security. Here are some recommendations that cover a variety of potential needs:
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[p]<strong>1. Mul-T-lock MT5+ TR 100 “Hockey Puck” </strong>[/p]
[p] This product is a great example of the puck style of a padlock. It is similar to products from companies such as Master Lock and Trimax, but with the additional features that Mul-T-Lock provides in their high-security locks. This lock has a cost that makes it accessible to most, though some more frugal buyers may faint from sticker shock. Just know for that price you are getting a very hardy lock that almost no one is going to pick the lock open or remove it by force.[/p]
[p]<strong>2. Abloy PL 342T </strong>[/p]
[p]Sometimes referred to as the Abloy model 342, this is a tremendous lock, both in terms of size and security. This Abloy padlock uses a PROTEC2 core, which has never been picked open to this day. With an extremely thick shrouded shackle (10mm in diameter) criminals will have a hard time prying it open too.[/p]
[p]The main issues you are going to run into with this lock is not having a hasp with the correct dimensions to accommodate such a thick shackle. It is also the most expensive padlock that I am recommending (though certainly not the most expensive padlock you could buy).[/p]
[p]<strong>3. Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock</strong>[/p]
[p]The lowest security lock I am willing to recommend for securing your cargo is this Stanley Padlock. It has a shrouded shackle and drill protection, which come standard. I would recommend that you replace the lock core with something more secure, but in terms of price for the product you get, this is the best value for such a small sum.[/p]
[p]The Stanley Hardened Steel Padlock is a good starter lock. If you have invested in other things and need a bit of time to recoup adequate funds, the standard Stanley is the lowest security placeholder you should settle for. For the price, you cannot buy much better.[/p]
[h2]Price Considerations[/h2]
[p]Price matters because money most truck drivers have to work within a budget. Don't spend all of your budget for your truck’s security on the trailer door lock. With that said, you shouldn't both with a lock that is less than $100. If money's no object, you can <a href="https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog/10-best-padlocks-of-all-time">get the best padlock available to you</a>. For everyone else, focus on getting as many of key features as you can. And if you can’t afford much now, start with a Stanley padlock and work your way up to the lock core replacement.[/p]
[p] <strong>About the Author</strong> [/p]
[p]Ralph Goodman is a professional writer and the resident expert on locks and security over at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog&source=gmail&ust=1510851240149000&usg=AFQjCNFCuwh1U-3WlNpEde3Klm2dTkTMSQ">the Lock Blog</a>. The Lock Blog is a great resource to learn about keys, locks and safety. They offer tips, advice and how-tos for consumers, locksmiths, and security professionals.[/p]
Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with loads of savings and giveaways [p]National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) is this week! This year, the trucking industry will come together from September 9-15 to honor professional drivers nationwide. We want to thank you for all your hard work and commitment to your careers. Without you and your integral role as a truck driver, life would get tough fast for the rest of us. Many of the things we take for granted, including access to medical supplies, fuel, food and clean water, would all be gone in a matter of weeks without trucks and truck drivers. What you do matters, and we are so grateful for you.[/p]
[p]As a professional driver, there are several rewards and freebies you can take advantage of as part of NTDAW. These include:[/p]
<ul>
<li><strong>[p]Denny’s</strong> - Participating Denny’s travel center locations will offer professional drivers scratch-off cards with various diner discounts and prizes through September 30. Drivers will also receive a 10 percent discount key tag that can be used until December 31, 2019. (<a href="https://www.truckersnews.com/dennys-to-show-appreciation-to-drivers-in-september/">https://www.truckersnews.com/dennys-to-show-appreciation-to-drivers-in-september/</a>)[/p]</li>
<li><strong>[p]Pilot/Flying J</strong> - Throughout the month of September, Pilot Flying J stores will have money-saving offers and daily giveaways via the myPilot® app. Pilot Flying J Truck Care is also offering free mid-trip inspections, valued at $50, to help professional drivers and trucking companies prepare for Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Brake Safety Week. The company is also handing out a combined 100 million myRewards® loyalty points to more than 60,000 drivers, including 2,000 daily winners. To enter, professional drivers can simply swipe their myRewards® loyalty card when purchasing diesel fuel at participating travel centers in the United States. Additional details can be found here: <a href="https://www.pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation/">https://www.pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation/</a>[/p]</li>
<li><strong>[p]Love’s Travel Centers</strong> - Love’s is celebrating NTDAW all month long with many food, drink, and merchandise deals as well as the opportunity to win 10,000 My Love Reward points. One driver will win 1 million points. Use the following link for more details: <a href="https://www.truckersnews.com/loves-appreciates-trucker-drivers-throughout-september/">https://www.truckersnews.com/loves-appreciates-trucker-drivers-throughout-september/</a>[/p]</li>
<li><strong>[p]AmBest Truck Stops</strong> - Specific AmBest members are hosting driver appreciation events. Check out the full list here to find one near you: <a href="https://am-best.com/News-Events/Driver-Appreciation-Days">https://am-best.com/News-Events/Driver-Appreciation-Days</a>[/p]</li>
<li><strong>[p]Southern Recipe</strong> - Vote for your favorite truck driver chef recipe for a chance to with $2,000 here: <a href="http://southernrecipe.com/truckdriverappreciation/">http://southernrecipe.com/truckdriverappreciation/</a>[/p]</li>
</ul>
[p]Many carriers around the country are also hosting their own driver appreciation events this week. Be sure to check out their social media pages to find out the details. Know about a NTDAW event happening that you want to share with other drivers? Leave the details in a comment below.[/p]
[p]Here’s to a great National Truck Driver Appreciation Week![p]
How to Kick-off your Trucking Career
[p]If you like road trips and you get excited by the idea of earning money while living ‘life on the road’ then trucking is for you. Trucking is one of the biggest industries in the world and extremely important for the survival and efficient function of an economy. As such, trucking not only helps support the economy, but also helps build it. At the moment around <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/trucking-industry-facts-us-truckers-2019-5-1028248577#truck-drivers-earn-less-than-most-americans-in-terms-of-annual-income10">6% of all the jobs available in the U.S are in the trucking industry</a> with more than 7 million people working in the industry right now. The number is growing each year as dependency on trucking increases.[/p]
[p]That sounds like an industry where the future is secure and employment guaranteed if you are good at the job. Sounds good right? It sure does but before you can get anywhere near a truck you need to fulfill some obligations like getting a license, choosing a trucking company, and more. Follow the steps below to get started with your stint as a truck driver.
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/2-1.jpg" alt=""]
[p][b]Make Up Your Mind [/b][/p]
[p]It is extremely important to get yourself mentally ready before even thinking about getting a license. Trucking sounds exciting but the job is mentally and physically taxing. At times you are required to sleep at truck stops, in cheap motels, or inside your truck's cabin. There aren't many decent places to take a shower and you will eventually run into some dirty truck stops. You may also meet some rude people which will definitely test your patience. Most importantly, you are away from your family for lengthy periods. Therefore, never decide in haste. Sit down and think about it but once you make up your mind do not look back as only excitement and adventure come ahead.[/p]
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/3.jpg" alt=""]
[p][b]Apply for a CDL[/b][/p]
[p]The first step on the road to becoming a truck driver is to get a commercial driving license (CDL). The CDL is divided into three main categories in North America: [/p]
[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/cdl_types.jpeg" alt=""]
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[p]If your goal is to become a big-rig driver then you need a Class A license. To get that you need to enter into a trucking school. This institute is much like a driving school except in a trucking school you are taught advanced methods of driving a large vehicle. There you will be required to practice and hone your skills both in the classroom and on the field. Generally, trucking school starts at $3,000 for a beginner program. You may avoid paying the whole cost of the trucking school by availing of some financial aid options. If you sign with a carrier before graduation, they may cover some of your educational expenses. Some schools in areas with trucker shortages may also offer scholarships to its students. You are eligible to apply for a Class A license once you have completed at least 160 hours or roughly 10 weeks of training. [/p]
[p]Once you have that many hours under your belt simply go to a state-mandated testing facility, pass your test with flying colors and you are good to go. Afterward, you need to go to the licensing authority in your state where you will be required to show your identification, proof of state residency, your Social Security Number (SSN),and proof of passing the CDL exam. The training program for a CDL can last for 3 to 4 weeks so if you are motivated you can get started with your trucking career within a matter of months.
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/4.jpg" alt=""]
[p][b]Pick A Trucking Company[/b][/p]
[p]The next step in your road to becoming a truck driver is choosing a good trucking company. There are many good local and national companies across America. That is a good thing because you have the power to choose and differentiate between various trucking companies. As such you should always look for renowned companies that have a good name in the industry. The last thing you want is to end up in a trucking company that is not financially stable and that doesn’t provide you with job perks.
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[p]A good company may provide you with health insurance, life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave pay, and more. So choose wisely but don’t waste too much time stalling![/p]
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[img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/09/5.jpg" alt=""]
[p][b]Accept the First Good Job [/b][/p]
[p]Most newcomers in the trucking industry waste time by waiting for the right opportunity, the “perfect route”. But that is not advisable. You are a fresh trucker who has just gotten his/her license. It is better to get some and any experience under your belt as soon as possible. Ultimately, the number of hours you spend driving will help you in the future to move up the ladder to better trucking companies. That can also lead to better job perks, better opportunities as a trucker, and a handsome salary. If you wait, a very good trucking contract may come your way but that is a rare possibility. By then, your peers would have moved further up the ladder on to greener pastures while you start late and experience the grit of a newcomer in a tough industry.
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[p][b]Final Thoughts[/b][/p]
[p]It is not very hard to get into the trucking business if you have the right mindset and you are motivated. Yes, you may face financial burdens in the beginning but seeing that the <a href="https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/06/america-keeps-on-trucking.html#:~:text=More%20than%203.5%20million%20people,occupations%20in%20the%20United%20States.">average trucker</a> makes $50,000 - $60,000 per year the initial burden might not feel a lot to bear. However, you would have to spend time away from family but in the end, all of this is worth the effort. The trucking industry is here to stay and you can make the most of it while having a grand adventure and enjoying the magnificent views in your big rig!
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[p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]