3 / 5 ( 11 votes )
If you’re considering becoming a truck driver, it’s important to be aware of what disqualifies you from getting a CDL. You must meet a variety of CDL requirements in order to receive the license. Find out if you’re qualified to receive your CDL and learn what it takes to prepare for the exam and avoid license suspension! Obtaining Your CDLIn order to obtain your CDL you need to attend truck driving school for training. At the end of that process, you will take an exam. If you’re looking for CDL practice tests, start here! Choose a Truck Driving SchoolReceiving quality CDL training is key to obtaining your license. Before jumping in blindly, research truck driving schools. Also, consider the factors that will affect your education such as the price, location, and quality of your driving school. Prepare for the CDL ExamIn addition to undergoing CDL training, you’ll also have to spend some time studying for the exam independently. Complete practice tests, ask questions and do what it takes to feel fully prepared for the exam. What Disqualifies You from Getting a CDL?The Department of Transportation (DOT) and more specifically the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) set the standards for the trucking industry. Those standards determine what disqualifies you from getting a CDL. To receive your CDL, you must meet those standards and follow the regulations. In addition to these requirements, it’s important to note that employers have their own criteria for selecting individuals to fill their truck driving positions. Luckily, the industry trends are in your favor. With recent driving shortages, trucking companies are forced to be more flexible with their selection process so that open positions can be filled. Physical and Medical Standards in the Trucking IndustryThe government requires individuals to meet physical standards to ensure they can drive trucks safely. Excellent vision is a must. To receive your CDL, you must meet the vision and hearing requirements to ensure you’re fit to drive a truck according to the government’s regulations. Vision requirements include range and color. Other physical conditions, including epilepsy and narcolepsy, may also prevent you from receiving your CDL. Recent changes in law patterns have reduced restrictions against CDL applicants with sleep apnea and hearing impairments. This is great news to job candidates affected by these conditions and to employers who want to hire them. That being said, discrimination against individuals in these categories may still occur throughout the hiring process. Clean Criminal RecordIf you’ve been involved in certain types of criminal activity, you may not be eligible for a CDL. If your license is suspended for driving violations or other criminal activity, you will not be able to receive your CDL. Even if your criminal history doesn’t prevent you from obtaining your CDL, you may still have trouble getting hired by trucking companies. Age RequirementsYou can receive your CDL at the age of 18, but you will not be able to cross state lines until the age of 21. Learn more about what disqualifies you from getting your CDL – Listen here!CDL Suspensions and ReinstatementsIn addition to knowing what disqualifies you from getting a CDL, learn about suspensions and reinstatements. Be aware of behaviors that may lead to the suspension of your CDL. Reasons for suspension include your driving record, traffic violations, health changes, or DUIs. So, how do you reinstate your CDL? You may need to complete a driver safety course, pay a reinstatement fee, and/or avoid driving throughout the duration of your suspension. Severe driving regulations may result in a permanent suspension of your CDL. CDL suspensions and reinstatements vary by state, so be sure to check out the regulations that may affect you. Ready to take the next steps to receive your CDL? Search through our truck driving schools and find the best fit for you and your truck driving ambitions. Already have your CDL? Find trucking jobs here!The post CDL Requirements: What Disqualifies You from Getting a CDL? appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d
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3 / 5 ( 2 votes )
Let’s face it, driving on an empty road at night time is kind of creepy, even if you’re in a big truck. I know you might be used to the ghosts and ghouls coming out around Halloween, but haunted highways are a year-round thing! Here are some of the most haunted roads in the United States! Truckers, you might want to avoid these haunted roads! Or, if you’re curious about what these roads are all about, drive them at your own risk! Six of the Most Haunted Roads in America1. Route 666/491 – New Mexico, Colorado, UtahAlso called the “Devil’s Highway,” this one probably speaks for itself. This haunted highway was so spooky that its name was changed from Route 666 to Route 491 because some people believed that the highway was cursed. Not to mention there was a high fatality rate along the New Mexico portion. The rumors say that ghosts on this highway could do anything from climb into the cab with you, to try to steal your soul but, since the route was renumbered in 2003, there have been fewer scary things happening. 2. Boy Scout Lane – Stevens Point, WisconsinThere are a number of dark rumors surrounding this 3-mile stretch of road in the woods. Rumor has it that back in the 1950s, a group of Boy Scouts ventured into these woods for a camping trip, never to return. While the state has no record of anything gruesome happening, there are different stories floating around that explain the boys’ disappearances. Some say there was a forest fire, while more morbid tales tell of murder at the hands of the bus driver. The boys’ ghosts allegedly haunt the woods surrounding the road. Luckily for truckers, this is a privately-owned road and is off-limits to the public. Still, if you find yourself near Stevens Point, you may want to stay as far away from this haunted highway as possible! 3. Clinton Road – West Milford, New JerseyThis roadway in rural New Jersey is rumored to be full of paranormal activity, from a ghost boy to phantom headlights. Additionally, this road has long been associated with the dark side, from the KKK to the Jersey Devil. As if the paranormal associations aren’t spooky enough, the road itself is just downright dangerous. It’s pitch black at night without any street lights, and there are several sharp turns. It’s probably in your best interest to avoid this road at all costs. 4. Bloods Point Road – Boone County, IllinoisThis haunted highway has a bit more of a lighthearted legend. According to rumors, this road is full of ghost vehicles like big rigs, school buses, and even police cars. Allegedly, these ghost vehicles create perpetual rush hour traffic along the road – a truck driver’s worst nightmare! Let’s be honest, some truckers may think that heavy traffic is just as scary as a ghost. 5. Kelly Road – Ohioville, PennsylvaniaThis road may be only a mile or so long, but it has no shortage of spookiness. The story here is that any animal who crosses the road instantly turns rabid and violent. Not only that, but there are reports of strange noises and weird lights coming from the woods surrounding the street. 6. The Devil’s Promenade – Hornet, MissouriIf this road’s name isn’t enough to freak you out, maybe the “spook light” will. Described as an orange ball of light, ranging from the size of a baseball to a basketball, the orb travels back and forth along the road. What’s even creepier is that no one, not even the U.S. Army Corps, has been able to accurately explain the light’s origin.
The post Haunted Roads Truckers Should Avoid appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d Hurricanes can wreak havoc on not only homes, roadways, and communities as a whole, but they also affect truck drivers. Hurricanes can damage shipments and equipment, wash out roads, create route changes or idle trucks, and increase prices due to fuel costs rising. They can also pause scheduled deliveries so that truck drivers are available to take relief and emergency supplies to those in need. Unfortunately, we are at the very beginning of hurricane season in the United States, bringing to light the need for all of us to refresh on hurricane safety tips for truck drivers. 4 Hurricane Safety Tips for Truck DriversHere are four hurricane safety tips for truck drivers as we are in the heart of hurricane season! 1. Prepare for high windsBefore the hurricane even hits and the rain starts, there’s most likely going to be lots of strong winds in the area. Strong wind is dangerous for truck drivers because it can pull and sometimes even flip a tractor-trailer. Trucks pulling dry vans or reefers are most at risk when it comes to high winds. Also, keep in mind that strong wind gusts can damage a trailer even if it’s parked. 2. Pay attention to weather warningsPay attention to weather warnings. If there is a state of emergency in a certain area, you may want to consider taking a different route or delaying shipment to that area. Also, stay up to date on road conditions during hurricane season. The U.S. Department of Transportation keeps track of road conditions and closings, so check it out to make sure you’re heading toward the safe ground. 3. Be flexibleBe prepared for schedule delays and changes. Patience is key when your trucking route is being impacted by a hurricane. Since the weather is so unpredictable, there’s no saying just how long an area will continue to be impacted by the storm. Be flexible in this situation and prepared for anything. 4. Avoid driving through high waterThis one may seem obvious, but avoid driving through high water and don’t assume that piles of debris that you see are just branches and sticks. Hurricanes blow and float things around, so keep an eye on the road for any hazards up ahead. If you can’t see the road or you’re unsure, don’t just plow through it and continue onward. It’s better to stop then to run over something or someone you can’t see trapped by the storm. Do you have any additional hurricane safety tips for truck drivers? Share with us in the comments below! The post Hurricane Safety Tips for Truck Drivers appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d
5 / 5 ( 2 votes )
Driver mentorship programs can make a huge difference in your organization. You’ll be able to teach appropriate and safe driving practices to new employees and increase retention of drivers who are dependable. A driver mentorship program will show both new and current drivers that you are willing to invest in them and that they are appreciated. Driver Mentorship ProgramsA mentor is an experienced employee that works with a new employee (mentee) in order to facilitate professional growth. The mentor can share his/her own discoveries, skills, and techniques to help the mentee get acquainted with the organization and industry. Here are a few things to remember when starting or altering driver mentorship programs. A Mentor is not a ManagerSome workers and managers get along well and develop a personal relationship, but most of the time you try to keep it formal and professional. With a mentor, a new employee has the chance to develop a more relaxed relationship with a co-worker. A more personal relationship can take some of the pressure off the new employee and allow them to feel more comfortable asking questions. Since a mentor is not a manager, they might need to encourage and convince the mentee that they know what they’re talking about. Since they don’t have any official authority, mentees might be more reluctant to listen. Also, not everyone would be good for the mentor role. The company should institute some type of process to determine good candidates. When choosing someone for the mentor role, the organization should take several interpersonal skills into consideration. Many different candidates may be quite successful at what they do, but can they effectively convey what they have done to get there? Communication and the willingness to openly communicate are key, but a good mentor is also a good listener. As the mentor observes, they will have a natural tact to encourage, help out where needed, and take initiative. Clarify Your ExpectationsFirst, the organization should appoint an employee to oversee the mentorship program. This person should meet with managers, safety professionals, and HR staff to make sure that everyone is on the same page. The goals, objectives, and safety concerns should be well known across the board, and the designated leader should also meet with the mentors to relay this information. Mentors will then have someone specific to go to if they need to clarify anything. It’s important for everyone to know the business goals and why exactly there is a mentorship program in place. The goals of the driver mentorship program should align with organizational goals and be part of the overall strategic plan. This way, no one is left wondering what he or she is working toward or what the goals are. Monitor ResultsThe person that oversees the driver mentorship program should also be monitoring the day-to-day interactions and outcomes. Making sure that the mentor and mentee are maintaining a positive relationship is important for the program to be successful. The company should also evaluate the program’s effect on the value and return on investment. Using employee surveys can give the company and leader a better idea of how the program is working toward the goals established in the beginning. If you’re unsure what to include in a survey, remember that trucking is a people business. Relationships matter to truck drivers, and one way to build stronger and better working relationships is with your driver mentorship program. And most importantly, once the program is in place, you can assess if the driver feels respected, well-acquainted, and well-treated. Benefits of Driver Mentorship ProgramsAside from decreased training costs, higher retention rates, and increased safety practices, mentorship programs have many other benefits for truckers and the company. Company Benefits:
New Employee Benefits:
Current Employee Benefits:
If your organization recently started a mentoring program, share your experience. Leave a comment about what works best. Let us know how your program impacts your employee satisfaction. The post A Guide to Driver Mentorship Programs appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d Truck driving is so much more than climbing into a seat, turning a key, and driving long miles. This list of qualities of a good company driver will help set you up for success. Let’s see how many you have and identify a few you can work on as you grow in your career. Top 11 Qualities of a Good Company Driver1. Able to meet the basic requirements to be a truck driver.You can’t be a good truck driver unless you can actually become a truck driver. Know the basic requirements to become a driver (like being 21 years old if you want to drive interstate), get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), and complete the training needed to hit the road. 2. Self-motivated.You’ll be on the road by yourself quite a bit. Even though you’ll have accountability to deliver freight in a timely fashion, there won’t be a boss over your shoulder checking your every move. If you’re self-disciplined, self-dependent and a self-starter, truck driving could be the perfect fit. 3. Always alert.You’ll spend many hours on the road, and you’ll need to focus every second behind the wheel. Whether it’s distracted drivers around you, animals trying to cross the road, changing weather conditions, or even sudden mechanical issues, awareness is critical. Good drivers have the mental discipline to stay alert while driving long distances. 4. Clean driving record.Beyond the basic requirements noted above, your overall driving record can be a good indicator of how you’ll handle a big rig. Different carriers have different requirements when it comes to the driving records of the drivers they hire. 5. Reliable.As a company driver, you’ll be given a truck owned by the company. They will task you with hauling freight owned by another company. Both companies will expect quality execution of the job at hand. Company dispatchers and customer consignees greatly appreciate working with responsible, trustworthy drivers. 6. People skills.Speaking of dispatchers and consignees, you’ll be talking with them regularly. You’ll spend lots of time alone on the road. However, it’s important that you’re able to create a positive customer service experience. You are ultimately the face of your company to everyone you deliver to. This is why your interpersonal abilities will go a long way to retaining a great relationship with customers. 7. Mechanically inclined.You won’t be expected to be a diesel mechanic and fix major issues that come up. However, you can certainly save time by making simple repairs with basic tools. Every trip you take should begin with a thorough pre-trip inspection and a truck maintenance checklist, but any mechanical skills you have could come in handy if anything does come up. 8. Healthy.Unfortunately, the truck driver stereotype isn’t always good as far as health, but good truck drivers recognize that their physical and mental health is important for driving stamina, alertness, and general effectiveness on the job. Thankfully, there are many resources out there to help truck drivers get and stay healthy. 9. Good sense of direction.GPS technology is wonderful, but a good company truck driver should always trip plan, be aware of any construction detours, weather concerns, and of course low bridges or any non-truck-friendly routes. Sudden road closures due to an accident can put you in a position as a driver to think fast. If you’re prone to get lost, you’ll want to brush up a little extra on where you’re going before you get rolling. 10. Patient.Company drivers might have trucks governed slower than the traffic around them. You might get stuck in rush hour traffic in a major city or a customer may be slow in unloading your trailer. You can certainly do things to help things stay efficient, but the less bothered you are by things outside your control, the easier you’ll be able to handle life as a truck driver. 11. Professional.As noted above, as a company truck driver, you will be the most visible person many others will see representing your company. More importantly, you’re representing yourself. The way you dress, talk, represent the other 10 qualities of a good company driver noted above, and how you drive, will all be things that can portray you in a professional light. Be what you want others to see! What qualities do you have? Browse jobs here!Author: Schneider Schneider has been a leader in the trucking industry since 1935, offering a wide variety of truck driving jobs throughout the country that allow you to pick your freight type, number of drivers, and driving style. Schneider offers a multitude of pay packages, benefit offerings, home time configurations, leading equipment, and military-specific benefits. The post Qualities of a Good Company Driver appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d For the most part, as a truck driver, you’re alone on the road. That is except for when you are picking up and dropping off your freight. Of course, you want these situations to go as smoothly and swiftly as possible so you can be on your way! There are certain loading dock etiquette and tips you should follow that will keep you on track and safe! Five Loading Dock Etiquette and TipsHere are five tips for truck drivers to follow at the loading dock! Find Company Driving Jobs Today!1. Communicate effectively.When you arrive at a loading dock – especially if it is somewhere that you’ve never been before – you want to be sure to communicate effectively. What I mean by this is to be polite and humble. Let them show you the ropes, and don’t assume that things at each loading dock will be the same. In addition, it’s always a good idea to let them know if you are running behind, or to pass on any message that might be of use to the company you’re delivering for. 2. Organize your paperwork.Next, you want to make sure that you have your paperwork organized. When you arrive at the loading dock, we all know how annoying it can be when they aren’t ready for you. On that same token, it’s equally annoying for them if you are fumbling to find the paperwork or are unprepared for the transaction when you arrive. 3. Remain patient.Some loading docks are better than others. Regardless of how frustrated you get in situations where people are off schedule, unprepared, or just plain rude, remember that it’s not always about you. Remain patient and try to make the interaction as painless as possible for yourself. The more patient and calm you are, the faster you can get out of there. 4. Respect the rules.I know. Some of you are reading that one and rolling your eyes hard right now. We get it. More and more people are cracking down on rules and regulations. Some of them may seem ridiculous or pointless to you. However, just the same as we said above about being patient – it goes the same way with following the rules. No matter what you think of the rules, abiding by them will get you on the road faster than arguing about it will. Plus, always keep in mind that you are representing your company. You don’t want to lose your job over something minute. 5. Pay attention.Lastly, pay attention. Read the signs, pay attention to your surroundings, and make sure that you are respecting the loading dock workers, keeping yourself safe, and unloading your freight properly (if this is up to you.) Loading docks are not always the safest environments, and accidents tend to happen when people are distracted. With that said, let’s delve into some safety issues you might see at loading docks. Loading Dock Safety Tips During COVID-19There are always situations where you can get hurt at the loading dock, from forklift injuries to slipping and falling. However, now the coronavirus adds another threat at the loading dock. The loading dock is one of the few places that truck drivers have to get out of their rigs and interact with people. This is a place where there are usually many regulations to ensure, such as having proper footwear or wearing orange vests, depending on the location. Now, drivers are to do things like wear masks, stay in their trucks and let others handle their freight, and perhaps even have their temperature taken. If you’re ever at a loading dock that feels unsafe, be sure to report it. If you turn a blind eye to people not following policy or procedure, it could lead to yourself or someone else getting hurt.
The post Loading Dock Etiquette and Tips All Drivers Should Know appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d “Should I buy a new or a used rig?” If you’re an owner-operator or small fleet manager you’ve probably asked yourself this question at least once. Sure, we’d all love a brand new, shiny truck, but we sure as heck wouldn’t love the price. When it comes to buying a big rig new versus used, there are a number of things to take into account. So, we compiled a list of pointers and main considerations for buying a big rig so you can decide if a new or a used truck is better for you. Buying a Big Rig – New vs. OldAdvantages of Buying a New RigIf money were no object, I’m sure we’d all prefer a new truck over a used one. At the end of the day, the decision of whether to buy a new or a used truck is primarily a matter of expense. However, are the expenses worth it if you’re walking away with a brand new truck? Here are some of the main advantages to buying a new rig:
Some truckers argue that, while buying a new rig is much more expensive, the money that you save on maintenance and repairs makes up for it. Buying a used truck can be a bit of a crapshoot, but let’s take a look at some of the advantages. Advantages of Buying a Used RigBuying a used truck is very popular, especially for owner-operators. Some of the key benefits of buying a big rig used are the following:
Like we said, buying a used truck can be a bit of a risk since there’s no way of knowing the vehicle’s complete history. However, provided that you do your research before buying the rig, you shouldn’t have a problem. So, Which One Should You Buy?If you’re an experienced owner-operator and plan on sticking with trucking for a long time, buying a new truck may make more sense. However, if you’re a new owner-operator or you’re unsure of how long you’re going to stay in the trucking business, buying used is probably the way to go. Either way, be sure to think through your decision thoroughly; you don’t want to end up regretting it down the road!
The post Buying a Big Rig | Should You Buy New or Used? appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d
Search for Owner Operator Jobs and Apply Today! Recently, I had the chance to talk with Norita Taylor, Public Relations Director for the OOIDA. For those of you who don’t know much about the Owner-Operator Independent Driver’s Association, you can read all about their mission to support owner-operators across the nation. In the interview below, we covered just how becoming an owner-operator is attractive to commercial drivers, as well as some of the struggles they face: More BigRigBanterUnique Benefits of Becoming an Owner-OperatorBecoming an owner-operator may not be for everyone, although these jobs certainly have their benefits. For drivers who operate under their own authority, they’re really running a small business. That means taking care of all the finances related to hauling goods, maintaining equipment, and obtaining the necessary permits and licenses. Sure, company drivers don’t need to focus as much time on these aspects. However, owner-operators make up for this in independence.
Unfortunately, the higher costs associated with becoming an owner-operator mean most millennials and younger drivers aren’t able to immediately take this career path. Still, drivers with lots of experience in the industry are prime candidates for starting their own businesses and operating under their own authority. Issues and Challenges Owner-Operators FaceAlthough the benefits of these jobs are great, there are still significant challenges owner-operators face throughout the industry. One of the main battles remains the ELD mandate imposed by the Supreme Court. I asked Norita what the OOIDA’s stance on this issue was:
As it stands, the OOIDA has filed lawsuits and continues to request exemptions for ELDs alongside other organizations who oppose the mandate. Although the OOIDA hasn’t had complete success with the FMCSA’s ELD regulations just yet, they plan on continuing the fight against oppressive regulations imposed by big trucking companies. Overall, becoming an owner-operator can provide massive benefits for drivers who want to start their own businesses. Even though there are more expenses associated with getting started, many agree that the rewards are well worth it. And with organizations like the OOIDA backing owner-operators, there is support and solidarity when needed. Bonus Video: Check Out These Tips for Buying Your First Truck
The post Becoming an Owner-Operator | OOIDA’s Norita Taylor Interview appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d An ongoing pandemic threatening normal routines, massive shutdowns across the world, and protests blocking major roadways throughout the United States – suddenly truck drivers are hauling through risky territory. Although the life of a trucker always comes with its unique challenges and threats, the current climate in the United States is really putting pressure on drivers who just want to deliver safely. Although older truckers have faced a whirlwind of less than ideal circumstances over the years, most will agree that these times are unprecedented. For new drivers, these situations are especially intimidating. So, what are the dangers you face when trucking through a protest and how can you protect yourself? The Dangers of Trucking Through a ProtestThere are many dangers of trucking through a protest. Although most protests are peaceful, that doesn’t mean they aren’t blocking traffic. This act in general is a huge inconvenience for truck drivers because it makes you late, throws off your entire schedule, and can cost you money. When protests turn to riots, this is when things get extremely dangerous for truck drivers. They are at risk of being attacked, and there have been recent stories of rioters throwing bricks and debris at trucks. Incidents also happened where rioters jumped in front of trucks or accidentally fell into the street and were dragged or hit by the truck. Looting and cargo theft are also big issues drivers need to look out for when trucking through a protest. So, what can you do to keep yourself safe if you end up trucking through a protest? How to Stay Safe When Trucking Through a ProtestHere are seven safety tips for when you are trucking through a protest. 1. Keep your doors lockedIf you are approaching an area with protestors, make sure that your doors are locked. Protests can get out of hand and some of them turn into riots. You want to make sure that they can’t get into your rig with you. 2. Get unbuckledIn the event that you are under attack and rioters might break into your truck, get unbuckled. You want to be able to make a run for it if you need to. 3. Crack your windowsExperts recommend cracking your windows just slightly. A cracked window is actually harder to break than one that is closed tightly. 4. Keep your dashcam onKeep your dashcam on so that whatever goes down, it is being recorded. 5. If you are a Hazmat hauler, call 911 right awayIf you are carrying something that could be harmful, you want to call 911 immediately and let the local police know the situation at hand. They may be able to work faster or call for backup to avoid an even more hazardous situation. 6. Call customers to let them know you’ll be lateIf you are relatively safe but simply tied up in protest traffic blocks, call your customers and let them know that you’re going to be late. It’s important to communicate. Although you have no control over your situation, you can try to mitigate the ongoing inconveniences it will ceate for your schedule by letting everyone know what’s going on. 7. Stay calmThe most important thing you can do through all of this is to stay as calm as you possibly can. Regardless if you agree with what people are protesting or not, when the act itself is interfering with you doing your job safely, it is frustrating. However, you don’t want to let your frustration take over and end up hurting someone yourself. That’s why you need to do the best you can to keep your cool. You don’t want to get any unnecessary charges because you retaliated, even if you are provoked.
The post What You Need to Know About Trucking Through A Protest appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d As coronavirus cases climb in the United States, Americans are waking up and acknowledging that drivers are essential. For those of us in the industry, the extra media attention on trucking and coronavirus reinforces what we already know. Trucking is the backbone of the American economy and a non-negotiable step in the supply chain. Billy-Big-Rig beware, in the midst of all the praise experts like Brain Fielkow president of JetCo Delivery, warn of a bumpy road ahead. An outpouring of support on social media has made this industry chuck-full of super-charged superheroes overnight. Although, trucking and coronavirus restrictions and precautions with have no-doubt made an already challenging job, much more difficult. An Unpredictable Future Now Unfolding“Coronavirus will likely divide trucking industry’s strong and weak players,” said Fieklow in an interview with Fox Business. “In trucking, you have the haves and the have-nots, and [unfortunately] I think coronavirus is going to divide the trucking industry even more.” When it comes to trucking and coronavirus it might not be the disease that slows industry down, but likely travel restrictions and layoffs. The halo of media attention surrounding trucking and coronavirus has made the driver a public servant, much like nurses. Accolades aside, however, “this pandemic may break weak players.” According to Forbes, KeepTrucking a multi-million-dollar startup “unicorn” is hitting a nosedive after launching its electronic logging devises ahead of new regulations in 2017. CEO Shoaib Makani sent an email to employees announcing layoffs, “of 18% of its global workforces – effective immediately.” Unfortunately, the relationship between coronavirus and trucking is affecting many owner-operations as well. In case you missed it, the majority of American trucking companies are not large organizations but “about 97% of carriers in the U.S. operate 20 or fewer trucks.” In the case of family-owned NWD located in Massachusetts, “business is down almost 60 percent.” In some states, businesses that order from or receive delivery are under heavy restrictions or are under strict Governor’s orders to close down completely. This shortage in loads is leading to an upturn on layoffs throughout the industry. Trucking and Coronavirus: Healthcare Hauls are Saving Grace For Some“If you’re in the right niche however, you might be alright” according to Fielkow. Some companies with hauls involving Clorox, medical supplies and dog food, have their hands full with the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Tim McCormick, President, and CEO of FCC, “I’m sure that there are companies that haul different commodities that may not be seeing the increase in demand, but with our customer base, we’re actually having to turn down freight because we just can’t handle it,” he told the Fremont Tribute. For those still driving, players big and small are also facing challenges in the most unconventional places. Precautions happen with simple things like paperwork. Truck drivers handle a lot of it and are now being encouraged to rely much more heavily on electronic devices, like load boards. Drivers aren’t leaving their trucks or use a facility’s restroom. Instead, they conduct business from through their cab window. Ingrid Brown told American Trucker as a result of social distancing her paperwork was wet with Lysol. How Are Trucking Jobs Affected by COVID-19?Right now, we are seeing certain freight demands increasing and others dropping. Although we’re sure these numbers will fluctuate over the next several months, we are all wondering when – or if – the industry will ever return to normal. Once COVID-19 started spreading in the United States and many places went into a stay-at-home order, people were impulse buying. Truckers could hardly haul fast enough to keep the shelves stocked. Once the panic wore off, it seems that now certain supplies are no longer needed – since everyone bought so much in the beginning – while others are sitting going to waste because people are consuming less due to being at home. However, in that first month of COVID-19, from February to March, we saw reefer trucking jobs increase by 135% – the biggest job in job demand that we’ve seen so far. Flatbed jobs increased by 57% and dry van increased by 24%. On the other hand, we saw a slight drop in freight such as car haulers, tankers, and intermodal. Do you have experience in reefer or flatbed trucking? Consider applying to these in-demand jobs! ShutdownsDespite the changing job landscape that trucking and coronavirus have created, we’re unfortunately seeing a bunch of trucking companies close up shop amid a tough economy. Just recently, Action Specialized, formerly known as Stone Trucking Company has shuttered its doors, leaving over 50 employees without jobs. Sadly, this has become a frequent occurrence across the nation as more and more trucking companies are forced to close down amid a declining economy. Rest Stops in Need of RescueAt truck stops and rest areas, drivers are sharing a similar story. According to the Wall Street Journal, “truck-stop restaurants in some states have shut dining rooms and switched to takeout service to comply with health orders aimed at controlling the spread of the virus. Pennsylvania originally closed its state-run rest stops, cutting back significant parking space along key logistics corridors.” Not to mention, the lack of places to eat! Pennsylvania is now, reopening some facilities on a priority basis, but only due to mass protests on social media! They still have nearly half of all state rest areas closed to prevent the spread of disease and non-essential travel. What’s Next? So, what else should truckers be on the lookout for? Well, you’ve probably already heard about the possibility for a second wave, which could put truckers and the industry itself in a tough spot once again. While some states are opting to take a slower approach to opening back up, other states have already opened up retail stores and restaurants, which has created a spike in new cases. Some experts believe that a second wave could peak sometime in the early Fall. Another thing you should keep an eye one is your healthcare. One of the biggest concerns of industry experts is a spike in healthcare costs. Healthcare facilities have actually become hotbeds for COVID-19 cases, which has forced many away from these facilities. Instead, they are opting for telehealth or simply not seeking medical treatment at all. Trucking companies should expect to see a significant impact on healthcare plans. If truckers aren’t actually going to the doctor, or filling subscriptions, this is costing trucking companies thousands of dollars Don’t Forget to Focus on the Positive | Video!Although we admit that things are a little uncertain right now, there are still positive things to direct our attention to. Check out this video to hear five positive things that are happening in trucking right now! Another thing to consider when talking about trucking and coronavirus silver linings is the amount of data that we’ll have on hand. Hindsight is 20/20 and you can rest assured that we’ll be using a ton of this data to plan and prepare for something as disruptive as this in the future. We can also expect some of these guidelines to stay for the foreseeable future. Certain forms that were often signed in-person will be moved online. Even when the virus is not as prevalent, this will help streamline pickups and deliveries and still save time in the long run. Company culture and the overall opinion and perception of truck drivers should also increase. We’re seeing just how valuable truckers are to keep the world running, and we should ideally see truckers compensated and treated accordingly.
BONUS: Podcast | Coronavirus and TruckingWant more information about coronavirus and trucking? Check out our latest Big Rig Banter Podcast! What do you think we truckers should be doing during this crisis? Comment below! Find Trucking Jobs Here
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