Category Archives: Trucking Life

Electronic On Board Recording – EOBR

Posted on by

Electronic On Board Recording devices are used by some trucking companies to track Hours of Service (HOS) compliance by drivers. These devices have been around for many years in different forms. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA, a division of the Department of Transportation), has previously tried to require all trucking companies to install the equipment in all trucks used in interstate commerce. At this time, the FMCSA is restricted to requiring the equipment only when the carrier (or sometimes the driver) is repeatedly found in violation of the HOS rules. However, there will always be career bureaucrats in the government that will try to impose their big brother will on the public.

The theory and the justification of the use of EOBR systems is to insure that the driver(s) are getting the required (by law and common sense) rest necessary to safely operate trucks. HOS laws require 30 minute breaks at least every 8 hours, limit the number of hours of driving without breaks, limit the number of work hours total before a rest break of 8 or more hours, and the maximum number of hours/work during a typical week without substantial time off duty.

Cheating an Electronic On Board Recording system

Although the Electronic On Board Recording can track the truck if it is moving or stopped, most systems can not (automatically) detect the difference between if the driver is on lunch break in a restaurant or is sitting in the office doing paperwork. A driver that is a chronic abuser of HOS regulations will still be able to tweak their activities – but it will be far more restricted then just using a paper log book. Since the system will record when the truck is moving, it will be impossible for the driver to record time not driving when in fact they are. However, the driver could still manipulate some activities such as recording sleeper berth when they are in fact doing other chores such as truck maintenance. An example of HOS cheating with EORB is, although the HOS rules require that a driver may only start a new day of driving (driving up to 11 hours in the first 14 hours of going on-duty) after 10 consecutive hours of off-duty time (no work). But if the driver parks the truck and manually puts the EOBR in a duty status of “off-duty” for 10 hours, while the driver actually performs work and is, in fact, “on-duty” for part or all of those 10 hours. The EOBR would report the driver is permitted by the rules to start a new period of 11 hours of driving, when in fact, the driver would be in violation of the HOS rules the moment the driver begins driving the truck. The value of the EORB depends 100% on who you talk to.

 

Anti-truck groups and proponents of big brother control advocate a system that tracks driver activity to the point that it (the system) knows if the driver is even in the cab, sitting in the driver’s seat, in the bunk, etc. Some trucking companies likely would like this level of control also as they want to milk every possible of driving minute from their employees. Many truck drivers (and their company’s owners) would like to eliminate all use of EOBR system as it is an intrusion into their freedom. Some people became truck drivers to get away from the BOS (boss over shoulder) syndrome. However, EOBR have greatly increased HOS compliance, especially by habitual offenders such as drivers that carried multiple log books in an attempt to completely bypass the safety goals of HOS rest requirements.

Electronic On Board Recording devices are here to stay for the trucking industry. Rather then just complaining about them as a problem, truck drivers and trucking companies need to learn to get maximum value from the systems. EOBR systems can greatly increase driver utilization by allowing the drivers to actually get their maximum number of hours being productive. In cases where drivers are also repeatedly detained at docks waiting to load or unload, this information can be documented and the shipper billed for the delays, or at least pick up delivery schedules can be adjusted to reduce wasted time and resources.

At this time, there are no GPS or smart phone apps that qualify as an Electronic On Board Recording system, although some EOBRs contain GPS like features.

Load Boards and Freight Finders

Posted on by

Load Boards and Freight Finders

Load Boards and Freight Finders are ways of matching up freight that needs to be moved with the proper and right equipment and drivers to move it. Although the original load boards were available at selected truck stops. Since it cost the truck stops money to install the systems, many were reluctant to do it, although the pay back was that it attracted drivers to park there. Since the driver(s) were waiting on loads, they would likely spend money in the driver’s store, restaurant, opt for truck PM and maintenance, etc.

In the old days – load board access was only available at (select) truck stops or via the home office on a data link. The growth of the internet started changing all that. Now many times drivers/owner-operators can find loads at any place where that can access the internet, even truck stops that do not have load board systems installed.

Additionally, may of the major load boards have portals for access using lap top computers, tablets and smart phones. This allows many drivers to function as their own dispatch service and reduces the need to rely on unknown and unverified brokers.

The value in load boards is the ability to scan loads looking for the best loads that may be available. Calling a broker and asking for work may result in the broker offering the most important load to the broker. There may be other work that pays more and dispatches sooner or even delivers closer to home, but the broker has promised a shipper and is now worried about getting the freight moved.

Why use Load Boards and Freight Finders

With the display of loads based on selected search criteria, truck owners, drivers or dispatch personnel can select from numerous loads that are the most profitable for the truck – which may pay less per mile but involve less detention/wait time and fewer unloaded and thus unpaid miles.

Some Load Boards and Freight Finders validate the brokers and shippers that are posting to their system. This helps reduce the rick of the truck not getting paid for the freight because the load board stands behind broker assuring payments. Brokers that don’t promptly and accurately settle up risk being barred from the load board making it harder to move their future goods.

There are numerous Electronic Load Board systems, but DAT (part of Roper Industries), is the largest and best know. It all started in 1978 at a single truck stop in Oregon and now located in truck stops from coast to coast. There are other systems and truck owners should review several to make sure they get the best on to match their needs. DAT is a general board with loads for a variety of equipments (van, flat, tanker, dump, etc), however there are also load board systems that are tailored to specific equipment. These targeted load boards may offer your truck the best value. So signing up for a load board service is like all business decisions – gets lots of information first and then talk to drivers at truck stops to see what their experiences have been.

Most trucking companies, at some time or another, will need the services of Load Boards and Freight Finders.

Your Trucking Career – Flat Bed Trucking

Posted on by

Flat Bed Trucking

So you want to be a truck driver but you want a more challenging job then just pulling dry van freight from dock to dock? Flat bed trucking may be for you. While most flat bed trucking companies will provide training, they generally prefer to hire drivers with 1 or 2 or more years OTR (over the road) driving experience. Some companies are willing to hire recent driving school habits and train the driver from the bottom up so they are trained specifically to the companies standards.

Flat bed freight, like any trucking job, may be solo, team drivers and may be company drivers or owner-operators.

Surviving & Thriving: Becoming a Trucker… from student driver to professional driver

Operating a flatbed is far more physically challenging then the majority of dry freight. While there are times when dry freight or reefer loads can be a workout, the majority of the loads are loaded and unloaded by dockworkers. Of course, those that are doing LTL (less then trailer load) or are doing deliveries to retail locations will receive a more aggressive workout. This compares with nearly every flatbed load where the driver(s) are normally directly involved in supervising the loading of the cargo and then securing the load with a combination of chains and/of straps. When securing a load to a flatbed trailer, the driver has to be aware of federal and state laws requiring a minimum number bindings. However, he/she must also be aware of any requirements the shipper might have. Some shippers have specific requirements on the type of tie downs, the number to be used – and more importantly, where they may be attached to the load.

And then – the tarps! While many loads are not tarped, many are. With sizes not uncommonly 16×24′ or larger and weighing 60lbs each, the driver will receive a full body workout climbing around the loaded trailer and pulling the tarps up and over the precious load. And it is not going to be one tarp – but several as the entire load will have to be protected on all angles. And secure while sitting in a parking lot may look entirely different at highway speeds – so all tarps will be secured with an abundance of rubber tarp straps. One experienced driver once commented that his rule was when he thought he had enough trap straps in place – go back and put on double that amount.

Become A Succesful Truck Owner Operator

Many times, Flat Bed Trucking loads are shipped to a variety of locations. Unlike van loaded freight which can move between the same docks creating a repeating run, flatbed can very easily be shipped to numerous locations – such as a building supply company sending materials to multiple different construction sites.

Because of the less consistency in load destinations, drivers will be come more involved in planning their routes and their schedules for driving, rest and fuel.

Oh, and did I mention that since most flatbed loads are loaded out in the middle of a large open space which is easily in the view of numerous shipping company’s employees and bosses? While much of truck driving is out of the direct view of bosses – loading large, bulk, flatbed cargo is the one time when you will always want to be on your A-Game. Acting or looking like you do not know what you are doing may result in dispatch being informed to not send you back to that specific location. And you normally on get one chance to get it right when loading. Having to spend a couple hours unloading and reloading s shipment is very costly in time – both for the shipper and for the driver as it counts against their log book hours.

Flat Bed Trucking is not for the meek – but if you like a challenging, never the same routing, it may be just the career for you.

Free Wireless Internet

Posted on by

Wireless Internet

Wireless Internet access is the newest component for a quality life for the over the road truck driver. With WiFi, the trucker can manage finances, keep in touch with family, keep abreast of news and current events, obtain entertainment and even submit load paperwork to the home office.

Because of this, more and more truck drivers are carrying lap top computers or other mobile devices such as IPads, Samsung Galaxys, Amazon Kindles and Barnes & Nobles Nooks. These devices can enhance the quality of life on while on the road as well as serving practical purposes at assisting driver’s to locate services from where to get fuel, obtain truck maintenance and locating parking, food and lodging.


For the family side of life, even simple email with family and close friends can shrink the miles and the loneliness of days or weeks on the road. Video conferencing, while never the same as being there, allows moms and dads to still be a daily part of their childrens’ lives. Another advantage is the entertainment options that are available from playing games, reading books, following the news, or reading online magazines.

Those drivers that already have portable devices already know this – those that don’t should consider them. Wireless internet access allow for personal communications while in the comfort of your cab as opposed to while sitting in a public place like a restaurant. A video chat with family can and should be a private affair, which is why your wireless internet device is so important.

Many truck stops realize the importance of wireless internet access and have installed the service as a convenience amenities. Some offer the services for free, others (Travel Stops Of America {at last check}) charged for the services at most of their locations. Many independent Truck Stops, and the number offering the services grows daily, provide wireless internet access which may be free or fee. Like all amenities, the local manager that makes the decision of what they offer and at what cost. Some simply do not offer wireless access at all, maybe because they do not see the value in providing the service which will attract drivers who will also purchase fuel, food or service.

However, even if your favorite truck stop does not offer wireless service, not all is lost. Luckily, many restaurants, some motels and occasionally other businesses have generously installed and made available to the public, open and free wireless access.

While this is by no means a complete list, and some local managers may not have the services available at their location, here are some nationwide businesses to look for when you are needing to find a signal for your computer.

McDonald’s (Provided by AT&T)
Starbucks (Provided by AT&T)
IHOP (International House of Pancakes)
Burger King
Home Depot
Lowes
Einstein Brother’s Bagels
Barnes and Nobles
Best Buy Stores
Krispy-Kreme Doughnuts
Big O Tires (Service Central Automotive)
National Tire and Battery {NTB} (Service Central Automotive)
Tire Kingdom (Service Central Automotive)
Merchants Tire and Auto (Service Central Automotive)

As we learn of other large/chain companies and restaurants, we will add them to this list. We will not list individual locations or small chains, but will indicate those services likely to be available on a coast to coast basis or with a large regional foot print. Check the listing on Truck Stop Report for a local truck stop that provides Wireless Internet Access

Your Future Truck Driving Job – Part 2

Posted on by

Truck Driving Job

Your Truck Driving Job could have you working with a lot of different types of cargo. This section reviews some common types of the trailers you may use in today’s trucking industry.

Dry Van. Most positions, especially those for entry level drivers will be in the Dry Van Over The Road (OTR) freight business. This is because it is generally the easiest and also it the majority of the freight. Look at any truck stop and you will mostly see the big boxes of van trailers. If look closely, you will notice that some of them Climate Control Units on the top front of the trailer. Those are normally called Reefer Units and will be discussed in a moment. Dry Van Cargo includes household goods as well as business and manufacturing supplies. Dry food goods are also often transported in Van units.

Reefer Vans are used to transport, especially food and medical supplies, that require temperature control. However, Reefer Vans can also be used for loads that could be loaded on Dry Vans. That is one of the appeal for some drivers is the opportunity to get more loads. However, hauling perishable items in a Reefer requires the driver pay more attention the load and react to any equipment problems. These loads are also often more time sensitive requiring faster load delivery. (Note: All freight is time sensitive and needs to be delivered on time.) It is not uncommon for Reefer Vans to pulled by team drivers allowing for long distant runs to be handled with less required down time to comply with Hours Of Service rules.

 

Flat Bed as the name describes is simply a long flat truck trailer. These are used for machinery, building supplies, bulky items and plus loads that do not fit on standard shipping pallets. These loads may or may not need to be tarped or covered. Many loads do require tarps being placed on them – which can be both hard and dirty work. Loads that are not properly tarped could be damaged and may be rejected by the receiver and result in the company and/or the driver responisble for damages. A version of the Flat Bed is a Drop Deck, which has a portion of the trailed lower then standard trailers allowing for the hauling higher/taller loads.

Curtain Side or Soft Sided trailers are a class of Flat Bed trailers that are used for hauling loads that need to be protected from the weather. These trailers, sort of, have built in tarping that covers the whole trailer. For loading and unloading, the driver moves the soft, flexible sides out of the way. The loads are then loaded and secured like any other flat bed load, secured with chains or straps and then the sides repositioned to protect the load. These are specialty trailers used by truckers and companies that that nearly every load must be covered.

 

Tanker trailers are used to haul liquids. Although often chemical (hazmat), it can also be many other kinds of fluids. In the local transport business, tankers are used for Gas/Diesel Fuel to service stations. Special endorsements are required for pulling tankers and HazMat loads. HazMat loads, however can be many different things and are also common in Dry Vans.

 

Bulk Transport trailers are used to move commodities that are neither liquid nor packaged for handling on standard shipping pallets. Some examples could be bulk flour, sugar, etc being shipped from the processing plant to a large commercial baking plant that makes bread, etc. Bulk could also be involved in HazMat chemical shipments used in manufacturing.

 

Auto Transport, ok this is self explanatory. But there are two types of auto transport. Nearly all auto moving involves moving new cars from regional distribution centers to dealers. However, there are also opportunities for drivers to move cars from city to city such as for people relocating and needing to ship as opposed to driving their cars. Being an auto transport driver means you will spend a lot of time playing monkey climbing around on the trailers to load and unload the cars including securing them for the transport. A recent earning review disclosed that auto transport drivers generally made more money each year – but spend less time actually driving because of the amount time required to load and unload.

CDL – Commercial Driver’s License Exam (CDL Test Preparation)

Dump Trailers are used to generally haul aggregate commodities such as sand, gravel and some manufacturing products. Most dump trailer work is local in support of construction projects, however, there are some Over The Road opportunities in Dump Trailers.

Oversized Loads can be a lot of different things such as large construction equipment, extra large machinery for manufacturing or anything that will not fit on a standard trailer. Everyone, at some time or another, has seen the trucks pulling trailers that look like several trailer attached together and they may have 8, 10, 12 or more axles – far more then the average OTR truck with 5 axles and 18 wheels. These jobs are generally only given to drivers with a lot of experience.

 

I am sure I have missed something, and I will update from time to time. Regardless of what freight you move and for whom you do it, your Truck Driving Job can be a great career.

Your Future Truck Driving Job – Part 1

Posted on by

Truck Driving Job

You have decided to be a truck driver. Freedom from the office. Travel the country. Make money while being paid to drive and no boss physically looking over your should. In another blog I will discuss some of the cold hard realty of being a truck driver, but in this one I review your employment opportunities, well as far as the type of work you can be doing. This list will not be all inclusive but rather a detailed overview.

There are three major over all job classes and then within each of those are divisions based on the type of cargo or freight you will be working with. Types of cargo/freight will be covered in a future blog. Please understand that there are few hard lines in the sand when it comes to Truck Driving Jobs. Many companies work locally and long haul. Drivers may be asked to work with a variety of different freight and different types of trailers.

Your job groupings are Local (generally day work/home nightly); Over The Road (OTR) gone for a week or more at a time and Expedite. I split Expedite/Hot Shot out because it is it’s own mini world.

Local:

The most desirable work is Local because it is home night. The job resembles a normal job where y ou go to work, get your work assignments, do your job and go home to be with family. These jobs are not always day light hour jobs although many are. Many start early in the day because many times it is the driver’s responsibility to oversee the loading of the load.

Because of the home time with family, Local positions are the most desirable. Since companies always want to hire the most capable employees, and drivers with lots of experience are always applying for these positions, generally Local positions will go to the experienced drivers. Most new drivers will have to start Over the Road.

Over the Road

OTR jobs are the most often advertised as that is the greatest need. America needs a lot of freight moved and most of that often that freight needs to be moved long distance. Distances that can not be covered in one day. Since truckers are limited on the number of hours they can work, anything that requires more then about 5 driving hours will require the driver to take federal law required rest/sleep breaks.

Expedite

Hot Shot or Expedite freight is often delivered in smaller trucks, many times Straight Trucks or even Cargo Vans. While there are some big rigs used in Hot Shot – many loads are limited in size (2 to 4 pallets), so the smaller trucker are more efficient. Expedite companies generally operate in regional areas and so drivers for these companies may work a combination of Local and OTR work.

Becoming A Truck Driver: The Raw Truth About Truck Driving Recommended reading if you know nothing about trucking.

Another difference is Company Driver or Owner Operator. Company drivers are just that, they hire on to work for someone else driving their truck. This is the logical starting point for most drivers as the cost to buy a truck and put it on the road is very prohibitive without a sizable cash infusion and solid credit. Plus, if you are new to trucking, you might want to make sure you want to do it before making a long term commitment of owning your own truck. Many large trucking companies also lease on trucks owned by another person or business but driven by a driver the truck owner hires. This creates a sort of hybrid situation where the driver is an employee but the truck is classified by the trucking company as a non-owned rig.

Great – Good or just another job. Your Future Truck Driving Job can be what ever you want it to be.

 

 

Rolling Strong and Freightliner Trucks Introduce Freightliner In-Cab Training (FIT) System

Posted on by
Rolling Strong and Freightliner Trucks Introduce Freightliner In-Cab Training (FIT) System (via MarketWired)

SOURCE: Rolling Strong March 21, 2013 10:43 ET LAS VEGAS, NV–(Marketwire – Mar 21, 2013) – Rolling Strong and Freightliner Trucks have introduced the first-ever OEM designed and integrated in-cab exercise and flexibility system at the Mid-America Trucking…

Continue reading →

The Best of the Road Comes In All Forms: Food, Fun, Patriotism, Beauty and Friendliness

Posted on by
The Best of the Road Comes In All Forms: Food, Fun, Patriotism, Beauty and Friendliness (via 3D News Room)

SKOKIE, Ill., July 16, 2012 – Rand McNally and USA TODAY have been working together to find the best of America – the best small towns, most patriotic places, friendliest folks – and this year you can connect with the country and its people without…

Continue reading →