In the great wide world of trucking, there are all sorts of different jobs commercial drivers can take advantage of. Once you get your CDL you’ll always be able to find the solid paying jobs you need. Still, sometimes drivers want to expand their skill sets and take on other types of driving jobs. If this sounds like you, the next question is probably, which trucking jobs are paying the best right now!? Throughout the industry, lots of drivers are switching to flatbed trucking as a means of earning extra cash for the foreseeable future. With the onset of COVID-19 in the United States, we’ve seen demand for flatbed trucking jobs increase. Let’s dive in: Switching to Flatbed TruckingIf you are considering switching to flatbed trucking, there are some important things you should think about. First, we already touched on the fact that job demand is high in this field. With that, pay is usually competitive as well. However, with that pay comes a certain level of responsibility and skillset that is unique. Below we’ll explain the skills needed for flatbed trucking and some of the technology that could improve the workload for this profession. Skills Needed for Flatbed TruckingWhile there are many financial indicators suggesting switching to flatbed trucking is a wise move, it’s all about having the right skills. Drivers comfortable with dry van, reefer, and other types of hauling that have fewer physical requirements need to increase their knowledge to land flatbed jobs. In most cases, flatbed trucking requires specialized tarping skills to secure loads safely and efficiently. Similarly, drivers entering into the world of flatbed trucking must have skills hauling oversized freight. While wide loads may not constitute too many loads, having the ability to take these jobs will certainly increase your net income! Another critical aspect of switching to flatbed trucking is the amount of physical labor involved with each haul. Compared to working a dry van job, flatbed drivers must complete all of the same tasks in addition to load securement. This also means keeping the entire load dry through the use of tarps and chains. In that way, these jobs demand more physical strength and knowledge on how to properly secure loads to these types of trailers. Once a load is completely secured, flatbedders also need to consider how loads shift throughout a haul, especially during bad weather conditions. One of the worst mistakes rookies switching to flatbed trucking make is having their tarps fly up like parachutes in the wind! Because you’ll be hauling a wide range of different loads, it’s up to you to learn how best to shield the freight from the elements during your route. This also means you’ll need to dress for the weather you’ll encounter each haul. Flatbedding can require you to get out of your truck to check on a load during your time driving. Always be sure to pull off in a designated and safe area! Technology Improvements and LagLike most of trucking, technology constantly shapes the future of flatbed driving jobs. Some of what experts expect to see include things like roll top or curtain van type configurations for increased safety. These can also serve to reduce the time it takes to tarp a load. Additionally improvements in aerodynamics look to eliminate bad fuel mileage. This would make it more cost efficient to haul flatbed loads. Still, due to the fact that some things just don’t fit in traditional trailers, flatbedding is only going to remain a great type of trucking job you can take advantage of today!
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With all of the specialized trucking jobs out there, it’s sometimes difficult to keep up with the changing industry. Everything from the price of fuel to consumer habits affects the way truckers haul their loads. This has been made exceptionally clear by the onset of the coronavirus around the world. Demand for food, as people impulsively cleared the shelves, sent certain freight into overhaul. At the same time, it stopped other freight in its tracks. When it comes to reefer trucking, there are several trends making an impact on the industry that you’ll want to keep your eye on. Reading up on the latest reefer trucking trends will help you keep your cool and make an impact! Of course, it’s no secret that the trucking industry is constantly in search of the best, brightest drivers out there. This is particularly the case for refrigerated transporters currently struggling to find and maintain truckers during COVID-19. Reefer trucking is so specialized in terms of the types of hauls drivers need to make. With that said, here are some current reefer trucking trends. 3 Reefer Trucking Trends | Keeping Your Cool!1. Fresh Food and Last Mile ShippingWhen it comes to hauling perishable items to retailers, reefer truck drivers are the ones to call. As stay at home orders were issued across the United States in early 2020, it seemed that truck drivers couldn’t get perishable items on the shelves fast enough. However, once mass panic buying slowed, things leveled off and in some areas drastically dropped in demand. Another thing to consider in this fluctuating trend is that some major grocery store retailers are considering the usage of smaller last-mile vehicles to make a bulk of their deliveries. Nonetheless, reefer trucks are still integral to delivering large quantities of perishables to depots where they will be transported by smaller vans or trucks. These lower-weight delivery vehicles — often those that don’t require a CDL. However, on our website as of March 2020, we see a continued increase in job listings for reefer truck drivers. 2. An Increased Focus on EfficienciesOf course, when it comes to reefer trucking trends, efficiency is on the top of the list of current trends. In addition to efficient gas usage, making sure a refrigeration unit is capable of meeting demands is also critically important. Newer truck models are using less fuel and have electric standby technology, which allows reefer units to maintain their temperatures without running the diesel engine while parked. If you’re an owner-operator, you’re constantly thinking about ways that you can save costs and make your rig more efficient. When we’re talking about reefer trucking trends, solar power is another way refrigerated trucking is staying ahead of the game. Third-party vendors offer add-on solar panels that can really help lower fuel consumption and reduce emissions, all while extending battery life. These panels can be rather expensive. However, hopefully the cost savings can translate into better pay and driver benefits if you or your company adopt them. 3. Changing Regulations and Duty CyclesOne of the most major things to hit the trucking industry in a while is the supreme court’s mandate requiring ELDs. Most of the time, reefer trucking jobs entail getting the product from one point to the next as quickly as possible. With ELDs monitoring every move, the need to get the trailer load and unloaded quickly has never been so pressing. At the same time, many fleets and companies are moving toward shorter hauls in order to get drivers home more often. These reefer trucking trends also hold true in the rest of the industry.
The post Reefer Trucking Trends | Keeping Your Cool! appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d Mountain driving can be dangerous for anyone, especially for a truck driver carrying a ton or two of freight. A slip up on a slick road can leave you wrecked, raw or ruined. Looking at the mountains in the distance can be a pretty sight on vacation, but driving through them (let’s face it) they can be hellish. Whether you’re just a “kid” or a full-blow big rig billy goat, these mountain driving tips really could be life-saving. 7 highly-effective mountain driving tips1. Don’t test your luck, inspect your truckThis is smart for any trucker driving in any terrain. Make sure that your truck is in prime condition before you begin traveling to avoid possible issues. You want to maintain your semi, so check the brakes, tires, fluid levels, and make sure there aren’t any leaks. Also, inspect your tire chains even if you don’t anticipate using them, and always carry an extra set. 2. You can never have too much gasSome of the best mountain driving tips are just common sense. You may be expecting to make it through the mountains fairly quickly, but the weather and other factors might have a different plan. In some mountain areas, you could drive 100 miles or more without passing a gas pump, so fill ‘er up before you leave. Even if you do find a gas station, it’s likely that they will charge an extra $2-4 per gallon. Low gas levels can be extremely costly not only in a monetary sense but also for your safety. It’s not uncommon for truck drivers to experience sudden blizzards, storms, fogs, or multi-vehicle crashes while mountain driving. Some of these situations can leave you stranded for a long period, sometimes 24 hours or more. If this would happen and you have a full tank of gas, you’ll be able to have electricity and heat for many hours. 3. Use rest areas to pull over and cool off those breaksOnce you make it up to the top and are getting ready for the descent, see if there’s an area to pull over. Re-check everything, especially the brakes and tires, before you begin the downhill journey. Doing so can help catch any problems that may occur and allow you to properly prepare. This will also help to give your brakes a chance to cool down and feed your inner beast! 4. Don’t rush the routeSeriously, take your time. You can take it slow as many times as you want, but you can only take it too fast once. Experienced truckers suggest going 5 mph below the suggested speed limit to ensure safety for you, passengers, and other drivers on the road. Speaking of other drivers, let them pass you. The mountains are not the place for a race, so let them go peacefully and pay attention to what you’re doing – not them. 5. Use proper braking and shifting techniquesWhen it comes to mountain driving tips we have to talk about making your descent. It’s a known guideline to be one gear lower than the one you came up in. Also, remember to brake and downshift before the downgrade. People usually slow-down when they’re already half-way down the hill and they realize they’re going too fast. This can be very harmful to the brakes if you are heavily using them or staying on them, as they can overheat and possibly catch fire. If you try to downshift while going downhill, you have a higher chance of stalling the engine or getting stuck in neutral. Even when you do brake before the downgrade, you’ll likely still need to apply the brakes on the way. Again, don’t stay on the brakes for an extended period of time, and find your “safe speed.” For example, if your safe speed is 40 mph, you should allow your truck to speed up to 45 mph and then steadily drop your speed to 35 mph. This allows you to let off the breaks for a little while until you speed back up. 6. Beware of changing weather conditionsWeather can change very quickly with the changes in altitude. You could be seeing sunny and clear skies at the bottom, only to meet thick fog or even blizzard-type weather near the top. Mountain driving can be very unpredictable, so be cautious as visibility can vastly decrease within a matter of seconds. It’s also good to keep in mind winter safety tips for when you encounter snow and ice. Remember to take your time in harsh weather, and pull over in a safe area if you need to. 7. Bring food, water, and emergency gearBe sure to pack a few days worth of food, water, and clothing. A dry pair of clothing could be life-saving in the event that yours get wet. In addition to the basics, make sure you have a toolbox for minor repairs that may arise. Flares, cones, and a first aid kit can also come in handy. Always carry a blanket with you in the event of cold weather and lack of heat. One other suggestion for mountain driving is to get a CB radio. A handheld radio might not cut it for your journeys, instead invest in a mobile CB radio with an external antenna. This can be especially beneficial if you are making mountain trips regularly. If you have no cell service, a CB radio will still work – you just need to have another person with one in the area. Most truck drivers frequently monitor channel 19, so that’s your best bet for assistance.
So that’s it “kids,” we hope these 7 mountain driving tips will transform you from a big rig billy-goat to the big rig G.O.A.T! What have you experienced driving over the mountains, share your advice with us in the comments below! Looking for your next high alpine run? Check out our job listings to become the GOAT at your next carrier! Find a Trucking Job Today!The post 7 Mountain Driving Tips For Big Rig Billy – Goats appeared first on AllTruckJobs.com. https://ift.tt/2JG3t4d An estimated 75 million Americans have high blood pressure or hypertension. According to the CDC, that’s roughly 30% of the US population. But what exactly is high blood pressure and what are the DOT blood pressure guidelines? High blood pressure can be caused by a myriad of unhealthy lifestyle habits or even genetics. Measuring blood pressure is a common step in an annual physical. However, if you’re found to have hypertension, the DOT blood pressure guidelines will affect your day-to-day trucking routine. Common Symptoms of HypertensionWhat is blood pressure? When a nurse or physician tests your blood pressure, “they are measuring the force that blood exerts on the walls of the arteries as it flows through them.” If blood pressure is too high for too long, it can cause serious damage to the blood vessels. This is known as high blood pressure or hypertension. The damage that is caused by this condition can result in a range of complications including heart failure, vision loss, stroke, kidney disease and other serious health problems. What makes hypertension so dangerous is nearly one-third of people who have high blood pressure don’t even realize it! One way to know if you should get tested is if you have a close relative who has high blood pressure. Otherwise, the only way to know if you developed this condition is through regular tests and check-ups. It’s important to remember that Hypertension symptoms can differ between men and women, as well as with people with preexisting conditions or specific genetic features like obesity, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, sleep apnea, lupus as well as others. Some general warning signs that your blood pressure is too high may include:
The Inconvenient Truth for Truckers“Truckers have an increased propensity for the development of hypertension, exceeding the risk typically seen in other professions,” according to a Cardiovascular Advisory Panel. “Long-term data have shown increased rates of cerebral, cardiac, and renal complications in patients with elevated blood pressure.” Due to the fact that Hypertension is progressive in nature and is commonly undetected, the DOT Blood Pressure Guidelines will require regular follow- up and monitoring of your condition until deemed fit by a doctor. Due to drivers being already at high risk there is a need for the DOT blood pressure guidelines. There is a public transportation risk as well. One of the reasons that the DOT blood pressure guidelines exist is the risk of sudden incapacitation. The fear is that a driver may become incapacitated or unconscious while driving a rig is a chilling reality of this condition. If gone undetected could cause insurmountable damage to the lives of drivers, commuters and the roadways themselves. Hypertension is dangerous. The DOT Blood Pressure GuidelinesThere are three stages to the DOT Blood Pressure Guides, each stage corresponds with a higher blood pressure rate and tighter return-to-work restrictions. They are the following: Stage 1: Blood Pressure range of 90/99 through 140/159
Stage 2: Blood Pressure range of 100/109 through 160/179
Stage 3 or Medical Disqualification: Blood Pressure at or above 180/110.
Click here for more information from FMCSAHow to Reduce Blood PressureWorried about hypertension? Don’t try to use short-term fixes as a way to try and game the system. Not only will this not work it can also lead to much more serious health conditions as well as consequences for your safety as well as others on the road. That being said, if you’re looking to lower or reduce blood pressure making these changes in unhealthy habits will help you to achieve your health goal. #1 Lose Weight & Exercise RegularlyAs your weight goes up so does your blood pressure. Losing even a few of those extra pounds can help reduce blood pressure. Men with a waist of over 40 inches or women over 35 increase are both at risk respectively. It’s recommended that regular physical activity, around 30 minutes several times a week will help to lower blood pressure as well. In a 2013 study, when sedentary older adults participated in aerobic exercise training the result of their new physical activity where just a good as some blood pressure medications. #2 Eat a Healthier DietFoods like fish, whole grains, vegetables and, low-fat dairy that skimp on saturated fats and bad cholesterol. A lower-carb diet can also help you to feel fuller for longer, thanks to higher on average consumption of proteins and fats. You’d be surprised just how many healthy snacks are on the road! #3 Reduce SodiumAny food rich in potassium can help reduces your level of sodium as well as the effects of high blood pressure. Think foods like fruits, bananas, avocados sweet potatoes and spinach. If you’re looking for a meal to feed you beast, these gas station snacks will curb your cravings on the road! #4 Quit SmokingEach cigarette you smoke increases your blood pressure immediately after you’d inhaled it. Quitting smoking may be challenging, but once you have it lowers your risk of heart disease and improves your overall health. Chemicals in tobacco can increase the blood pressure as well as narrowing and hardening your arteries. #5 Cut back on CaffeineCaffeine’s effect on blood pressure is still debated, however, it is widely known to increase your heart rate. Caffeine, just like any drug is likely to affect each person differently. So, adjust your intake and self- monitor its effects. #6 Reduce stressBe aware of your stress triggers and make time for downtime. Practicing gratitude for others can also help to reduce your stress. Some other activities include reading, deep breathing, walks or laughter.
Thankfully, when it comes to the DOT Blood pressure guidelines you’re in control. Although, the consequences of poor life choices can hinder your day-to-day trucking, remember it’s a precaution to protect drivers from much more damaging and lasting health effects. Looking for a new job? Check out our listings here!
The post DOT Blood Pressure Guidelines | Don’t Wreck Your Health! 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. 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. From public restrooms being locked to fluctuating business drivers are running into serious problems right now. As trucking and coronavirus unfold it’s important that we keep a sober eye on the industry. Especially, our drivers
Want more information about coronavirus and trucking? Check out our latest Big Rig Banter Podcast! Check out the video below! What do you think we truckers should be doing during this crisis? Comment below! Find Trucking Jobs Here
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