Nov 27, 2020 • Community

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help

Trucker Path App Update Version 4.30: Get Help

What’s up Trucker Path users!

We’ve just released the latest version 4.3.0 of Trucker Path in both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Ever since the moment the app hit the ground running, we’ve identified some recurring themes for the feedback that we’ve been receiving. Therefore, we reviewed those common themes and came up with the “Get Help” section to better help you guys find the assistance you need.

You can now browse our newly installed FAQs for self-service, and the previous Call Support and Talk To Support sections are integrated into the Get Help as “Call Us” and “Feedback”.

In each feedback section, you can submit your feedback by different issue types – “account issue”, “technical issue” and “product suggestion”. You’ll have the option to leave your email, describe your issue in details and upload pictures or screenshots to illustrate the issue.

We hope this new update can bring you better customer service as well as helping you navigate to the resource you need at ease. If you wish to see more FAQ topics being added to the app, please feel free to contact us through support@truckerpath.com or the Product Suggestion channel of Feedback in the app. We’ll review your request and try to accommodate your suggestions in the next round of updates.

We appreciate you guys for the support. Stay tuned for our latest update!

TagsTruck Driver Trucker Path Trucking Industry Trucking Tips

7 Ways to Stay Healthy While On the Road [p]When you are driving on the road, it becomes extremely hard to stay active and healthy. Simply sitting in a seat for long hours can put immense mental and physical strain on your body. Not to mention the terrible food choices you have to make due to a lack of healthy options in many restaurants, motels, or truck stops. However, if you are really up for it, there are plenty of things you can do while you are on the road to keep your body and mind in perfect shape. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Stack Up on Healthy Snacks[/b][/p] [p]If you drive from state to state for fun or as part of your job you should always think in advance and buy some healthy snacks for the journey. Nowadays, you can find scores of nourishing refreshments at your local superstore to keep your health in check. You don't have to fill up your stomach with candies, chips, cookies, or other similar treats when you can buy some dry fruits, milk, baked chips, and other healthy alternatives. This way, you can keep consuming snacks when you are bored and remain fit.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-HealthySnacks.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Always Use Sunscreen[/b][/p] [p]We often undermine the effects the sun has on our skin. The constant bashing of the sun's rays can create serious dermal issues. Often times leading to life-threatening consequences in the form of skin cancer. You should make it your duty to protect yourself from the sun while you are on a long journey. Use good quality sunscreen, and you will never complain about blemished and wrinkly skin when you are older.[/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Get Ample Sleep[/b][/p] [p]Sleep is often ignored by truckers and other long-haul drivers since they are adamant about meeting strict deadlines. In reality, sleep should be your priority when it comes to long-distance driving. If you are putting in at least eight hours of sleep every night, then your mind and body will be in top shape to perform the coming day. However, skipping sleep will lead to mistakes and accidents, which we all want to avoid.[/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-AmpleSleep.jpg" alt=""] <h2></h2> [p][b]Meditate Often[/b][/p] [p]You should make it a habit to meditate for a short period of time whenever you get the chance. Meditation can help calm the nerves and soothe the mind. If you are a trucker who is constantly on the highway, make it your routine to meditate for ten minutes before beginning your day. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Keep Hydrated[/b][/p] [p]Our bodies need sufficient hydration to stay functional. Hence, long-distance drivers need to keep water bottles with them at all times. Avoid sugary drinks like sodas as they can cause the dehydration process to accelerate. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2021/01/202101-BLOG-7WaysToStayHealthy-Hydrate.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Try Yoga[/b][/p] [p]Driving for long hours can make the body stiff, which is why you should think about sneaking in a bit of yoga during your breaks. Yoga improves flexibility and mobility of the body while also helping the mind regain focus. You don't have to go overboard with a full routine when a small one can do your body wonders. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Socialize[/b][/p] [p]Humans are social animals, meaning we need constant human connection to stay mentally healthy. Being social is highly important for drivers who are driving alone since talking with friends and family can revitalize the soul and help regain your focus and determination. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Final thoughts[/b][/p] [p]You can't possibly find time to prepare full-blown meals or go to the gym while you are on the road, but doing a little bit of what we suggested can help you keep your body and mind in tip-top condition. Here's to a healthier 2021![/p] [p]Got some wellness tips? Share them on the comments below.[/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Jan 29, 2021

Truck Parking Prediction [p] Find truck parking near you with the new Trucker Path Truck Parking feature. [/p] [h2] Truck Parking Prediction [/h2] [p] If you're a truck driver, then you're well aware of the <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/truck-parking-issue-can-cost-the-industry-5-billion-annually/">lack of available truck parking</a> in America. It's one of the top issues plaguing the trucking industry and is both a safety risk for drivers and costs trucking companies billions. [/p] [p] We discovered that almost half of the truck drivers spend an hour or more searching for available truck parking. Between the ELD mandate and overcrowded truck stops, it's no surprise. Still, the burden shouldn't be left on the drivers. They have enough to worry about, after all, being a truck driver is one of the most dangerous jobs in America. [/p] [h2]Take The Guesswork Out of Finding Truck Parking[/h2] [p] Now there's a solution to finding truck parking with our new <strong>Parking Predictor!</strong>[/p] [p] This new parking feature compiles several years of data to forecast the availability of parking at truck stops and other locations. Now you can compare specific times of day at over 8,000 locations to see when parking is either full or has spots for trucks. [/p] [button-green href="https://truckerpath.com/trucker-path-app/truck-parking-near-me/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=parkingprediction"]Try Trucker Path Today[/button-green] [p] <strong>How To Use It:</strong> [/p] [p]1. Open the Trucker Path app [/p] [p]2. Click on a Location found on the map[/p] [android-img src="/uploads/2017/10/click-a-location.png"] [p]3. Click <strong> PREDICTION</strong> [/p] [android-img src="/uploads/2017/10/5a.-parking-prediction-details-card-new-with-arrow.png" alt="trip planner"] [p]4. View the <strong>Parking Predictions</strong> to verify when the best (and worst) times to park at the location will be. [/p] [android-img src="/uploads/2017/10/7.-parking-prediction-actual-screen-new.png"] [p] Truck Parking looks limited at this place Wednesday mornings, you might want to find an alternative location. [/p] [p] It's as easy as that! Now you can eliminate wasted time searching for a spot and find nearby truck parking with confidence. A little peace of mind goes a long way and you won't have to worry about violating your HOS with this new feature. [/p]

Dec 05, 2017 • Community

How to Start a Hotshot Trucking Business [p]Ever wondered how to be your own boss while enjoying beautiful sceneries across America? The freight industry is the backbone of America’s economy contributing more than <a href="https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/gdp-from-transport">500 billion USD</a> every quarter and the numbers are increasing each year. It’s a lucrative industry which gives handsome rewards. However, it is not easy getting into traditional trucking due to the requirements needed.[/p] [p]What if there was a way to be a part of the trucking industry without dealing with all the hassle? The good news is there is a sure-fire way of being a part of the trucking industry and you can get started in a few days. What is it, you ask? The answer to that question is “Hotshot Trucking”. But there are still a few requirements before you are eligible to haul freight. Fortunately, these requirements are easy to complete and we will explain everything step by step below. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]What is Hotshot trucking? [/b][/p] [p]Hotshot truck drivers are freelancers who work privately carrying freight from one point to the other without any employer restrictions or scheduling restrictions. In other words, you are your boss and you can choose when to earn and how much to earn. All you need is a medium or heavy-duty truck with at least 7,000 pounds of hauling force and a trailer. A Dodge Ram 3500, a Toyota Tacoma, or any version of the Ford F-series truck can work well. [/p] [p]Currently, around 70% of the goods you can find on the shelves are transported by hotshot truckers and independent freight transporters. According to estimates, the trucking industry is expected to grow by 2.3% yearly till 2024. With freight volumes increasing day by day it is the perfect time to set up your own hotshot trucking business. [/p] [p][b]Pros and cons of Hotshot Trucking?[/b][/p] [p]Hotshot Trucking comes with a lot of advantages especially if you want to kick-off your trucking business easily. But be wary also of some limitations and trade-offs when entering this kind of trucking business. [/p] [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-pros_and_cons_table.png" alt=""] [p][b]How to Begin?[/b][/p] [p]Now that you have a basic idea of hotshot trucking let’s get started on the specifics: [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Set up an LLC[/b][/p] [p]You need to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and register it with your state. This is the first step in registering your business and it doesn't matter if you are working alone or if you intend to invite others to join in with you, setting up a legal company gives you many <a href="https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/advantages-of-an-llc">benefits</a> such as:[/p] <ul> <li>Limited personal liability</li> <li>Less paperwork</li> <li>Tax advantages</li> <li>Ownership and Management flexibility</li> <li>Flexible profit distribution</li> </ul> [p][b]Register With the Tax Authorities [/b][/p] [p]Once you have your LLC set up, the next step is to get a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/taxpayer-identification-numbers-tin">Tax ID</a> to go with your business. The tax ID or the Employer Identification Number (EIN) will allow you to receive checks and other forms of payments directly to your business account. That takes us to our next step. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-make_a_business_bank_account.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Make a Business Bank Account[/b][/p] [p]A separate bank account will allow you to divert all your business-related transactions to your business bank account. This allows you to keep track of your expenditures while also giving you the liberty to make and receive payments.[/p] [p][b]Apply for a CDL (optional)[/b][/p] [p]Hotshot trucking does not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) since in most cases you won’t be exceeding the gross weight limit determined by the authorities. [/p] [p]You don’t need a CDL if: [/p] <ul> <li>If the total weight you are pulling is less than 10,000 pounds.</li> <li>If the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer is less than 26,000 pounds. </li> </ul> [p]Getting a CDL is no easy task. You have to enlist in a reputable training academy, go through several weeks of training, and then apply as well as pass the CDL exam. Therefore, it is better to forego this requirement in the early stages of your business but its best to acquire the license once your business is up and running. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-acquire_relevant_equipment-1.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Acquire Relevant Equipment [/b][/p] [p]As you know, hotshot trucking involves a lot of hauling and towing. It is important to have a sturdy and reliable truck if you want to save yourself a lot of grief later. You will need a good medium to heavy-duty truck with a lot of power (around 400HP) to pull at least a ton and a 30 ft. gooseneck flatbed trailer to begin. A decent truck can cost from $15,000 to $60,000. A good trailer costs from $7,000 to $25,000. It is up to you to decide how much you want to invest in the business initially. If you already have a truck at home and you don’t intend to get a CDL right away then you can save money by buying a cheap trailer and starting your business with minimum investment. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Further Government Approvals [/b][/p] [p]It is a good idea to register your business with the Department of Transport (DOT) in your state and also with the federal authority if you intend to drive interstate. The state will provide you a DOT number and the federal government authority will give you a Motor Carrier (MC) number. These numbers must be emblazoned on the side of your vehicle. [/p] <h2></h2> [img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2020/10/How-to-Start-a-Hotshot-Trucking-Business-getting_your_first_order.jpg" alt=""] [p][b]Getting Your First Order [/b][/p] [p]It’s often difficult to get your first order but there are resources available online that can help you out. You can sign-up and keep an eye out for potential contracts using <a href="https://truckerpath.com/truckloads/free-load-board/">loadboards</a>, which is an online marketplace where truck owner-operators, shippers, and freight brokers can post and search for loads. If a contract fits your requirements you can sign-up with them and begin your hotshot trucking journey. [/p] <h2></h2> [p][b]Conclusion [/b][/p] [p]It is not easy to start a business from scratch and accept profits from the get-go. However, if you work hard, complete all the requirements and stay motivated, you can slice through the initial difficulties and begin expanding and earning handsomely all while being your own boss. [/p] <h2></h2> <h2></h2> [p][b]By Aldous Aldwin[/b][/p]

Oct 09, 2020 • Carriers