You’ve made the decision to be a trucker, now you’re saying ‘what’s next?’ The next step after you’ve decided to venture into this career is choosing where to get your CDL. Just like any major, life-changing decisions there are many factors that go into choosing what CDL school works best for you. Things to consider would be financial responsibility, duration, and community. We are breaking down differences, similarities and important factors to help you make the right first step for your new career.
Financial Responsibility
Paid
Paid CDL training is also known as company-sponsored training. This is when a company pays the upfront cost of your training. Normally companies will cover both your transportation to the training facility and hotel accommodations while in training. In some cases there are companies who pay for the cost of meals and even loan you money to pay your bills while you are taking their course.
In return for the paid training the company sponsoring you will require you to drive for them for an agreed upon period of time, or until your tuition is paid off. Not every paid CDL training is identical, so it is important to do extensive research.
Private
Private CDL trainings are with independently owned truck driving schools. Typically there is a requirement to pay tuition upfront. This structure is ideal for those with families who wish to be closer, as they will commute back and forth. Being that this more of a risk than company-sponsored training, prospective students will want to get as many pre-hire letters as possible and ensure that the companies they’re interested in hire from the chosen institution.
Tip: If choosing either option you are looking at “paying back” or paying upfront $4,000 to $10,000. We suggest you go with the best value, not just the lowest price.
Duration
The amount of time you’ll have to dedicate to your CDL isn’t a matter of paid versus private. The duration is contingent on your choice of license class, desired endorsements, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, and class and driving hours.
The requirements of each state are also different, so we’ll take the word of most CDL instructors who say your training will take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks.
Community
Obtaining your CDL in the best environment for your learning habits is vital to how well you succeed. Knowing the student to instructor ratio is also important. If you are the kind of person who thrives on 1-on-1 interaction, choosing a school with a 40-to-1 ratio isn’t going to cut it. This is your career, so your success in the field is based on your success in the classroom.
For students going the company-sponsored route, the community makes all the difference. How a company trains its prospective employees is a reflection on how they treat their actual employees, so be super aware of this.
The IRS typically stops processing Form 2290s for a short period of time every year. This year from late December to early January, the IRS briefly put a hold on Form 2290s.
When did you first use your heavy vehicle on public highways during the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) period? Because if it was in December, then your Form 2290 is due by January 31, and that’s only a little over a week away.
If you need to file, luckily you have ExpressTruckTax to help you complete your form in a matter of minutes online. However, we go beyond e-filing. We’re also here to share important Form 2290 information so you will always know exactly when you’ll need to file. Check out these HVUT deadline tips.
Was December Your First Used Month? Then File Your 2290
You file 2290 online based on the month that you first use your heavy vehicle on public highways during the tax period. This is so you won’t pay for the months that your truck wasn’t on the road.
The HVUT period runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year and you have to file by the last day of the month following your first used month. That means if you first used your truck in December then you need to file by January 31 or you will have penalties to face.
Because most people first use their trucks in July, when the HVUT period begins, August 31 is a major deadline day. Filing your Form 2290 is incredibly important because the taxes collected are used to repair, maintained, and build public roads.
As a result of filing, you will get a copy of your stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of filing and paying your HUVT tax. This form is actually needed to renew your tags and to complete your IRP return.
HVUT Penalties
If you fail to file by the deadline you will have expensive penalties to face. For example, for failing to file by the due date you will face a penalty of 4.5% of the total tax due. This amount will accrue on a monthly basis for up to five months.
Plus, if your HVUT payment is late or doesn’t fully cover the amount you owe you will face an additional penalty of 0.5% of the total amount due. Also, there is an additional penalty of .54% as well.
But worst of all, if you don’t file you won’t have a copy of your stamped Schedule 1, which is required by the DMV so you can keep legally operating. Don’t get parked, file by the deadline with ExpressTruckTax.
E-Filing With ExpressTruckTax
We have streamlined the e-filing system to make it incredibly quick and easy. You don’t have to download anything or head to the IRS office. Simply create your free account and follow the step-by-step instructions to instantly complete your form and transmit it directly to the IRS.
Our instructions explain what information is required to complete your form and where it needs to be entered. Plus, our internal audit check will scan your 2290 form to catch any basic errors before it’s sent to the IRS.
As a result of filing with us, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in about 15 minutes via email.
Best of all, our live, US-based support team is ready to help. If you have any questions call us at 704.234.6005 Monday – Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM EST. We also offer live chat and 24/7 email support at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.
Not all companies allow pets, but luckily, some allow truckers bring their furry friends.
Much like an apartment complex, these trucking companies often require a pet deposit, which can range anywhere from $100-$500. Their policies may also restrict the weight of your pet.
No matter how tempted you are to take your pet on the road, don’t ever just assume that your trucking company or customers are okay with it.
Make sure you know a site’s policy before you arrive.
Military bases, electric plants, and anywhere with hazardous materials and high security will NOT allow you to bring a pet on-site.
Truck drivers who bring pets along say they enjoy having company on the road. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone to keep up with trucking news and listen to trucker radio shows with.
Considering adding a pet to your trucker lifestyle? Here are some things to consider, and a list of the best dogs for truckers.
Introducing a Pet to the Trucker Lifestyle
Benefits of Traveling with a Pet
Most truck drivers who bring their pets will tell you that the benefits of trucking with a pet greatly outweigh the disadvantages.
Pets can help truck drivers combat loneliness and overcome negative aspects of the trucking lifestyle.
For instance, bringing a dog forces truck drivers to get out and go for walks, helping maintain wellness on the road and increasing energy and attention while driving.
Dogs may also motivate you to take more breaks, which is especially important for summer trucking.
Plus, animals are more alert to certain situations, and offer a level of protection on the road.
How to Travel with a Pet
If you choose to bring a pet, keep current shot/medical records with you in case of an inspection.
Also, consider bringing baby wipes to clean your pet and eliminate smell when you aren’t able to give your pet a bath.
Pack puppy pads for emergencies, pet food, and treats.
Most truckers who bring pets trucking have dogs. The best dogs for truckers are older dogs because they are calmer and able to stay still for longer periods of time. Puppies have too much energy and need to be let out much more often.
If you’re looking for an older dog companion, check out your local Humane Society or animal shelter.
In terms of breed, some of the best dogs for truckers include:
1. Toy Breeds
Toy breeds, like chihuahuas, require little grooming. Plus, they’re so small that truck stops and motels probably won’t care if they’re around.
2. Bulldogs
Bulldogs don’t shed much and are also low maintenance. They don’t require much exercise and like to lounge around all day.
3. Pitbulls
Pitbulls are great companions. They’re considered one of the best dogs for truckers because they can offer safety and protection. They’re pretty active though, so you’ll have to get outside with them a couple times a day.
Keeping up with Policy
Again, it’s important to know the rules, stay updated with the latest trucking news regarding pets, and understand that each company is different.
While we’re on the topic of staying compliant with trucking policies, let’s talk about staying compliant with the IRS.
Your 4th Quarter IFTA Deadline is Coming Up!
You need to generate and file your 4th quarter IFTA return by January 31! All your fuel and mileage data from October 1 – December 31 need to on that report.
Thankfully, there’s an easy way to enter your information and calculate what you owe with ExpressIFTA!
Their solution is the quickest and most efficient solution. Generate your IFTA report today!
Let’s face it – staying healthy on the road isn’t easy.
Working in the trucking industry is tough and thankless, and it requires long hours with little movement.
As an American trucker, you keep our country moving forward, but you sacrifice many things to do so. Often, this includes your health.
So what does it take to be a healthy trucker? 🤔 Check out these truck driver fitness tips to learn more!
The Healthy Trucker: Wellness On The Road
Healthy Habits and Truck Driving Tips
Before getting into healthy trucker food and our truck driver workout, let’s talk about general truck driving tips regarding wellness.
In the trucking industry, achieving optimal health isn’t quick. Becoming a healthy trucker takes dedication. Understanding this will help you set attainable goals.
Once goals are set, create and stick to a schedule. Plan stops at places with healthy trucker food options, or in areas that are more walkable.
Consistency is key to truck driver fitness. Exercise every day, even if you only have time for a few push-ups or laps around your truck.
Lastly, sleep. The average American trucker doesn’t get the best sleep, but make the most of it. Stay off your phone at least 30 minutes before bed to help you fall asleep more quickly.
Eating on the Road
Snacking isn’t illegal! Starving yourself between meals will only cause you to overeat later.
One healthy trucker snack is pre-cut fruit. Avoid salty snacks, like chips. For meals, consider ditching fried or breaded meats and opting for roasted or baked ones instead.
In the trucking industry, water is your best friend. It’ll keep you alert on the road and prevent you from feeling hungry when you’re not. Also, try green tea. It has natural caffeine!
Truck Driver Workout
One way to stay active is by tracking your steps. Invest in a pedometer and increase your numbers by parking further away.
Don’t forget to stretch! Sitting for long periods of time can cause postural damage and injury.
Create and stick to a workout schedule. Check out the 20-minute truck driver workout to the left for inspiration!
Repeat the entire truck driver workout 3 times if able! Rest and drink water between sets.
Store dumbbells in your truck if you want your truck driver workout to focus on strength.
By following a solid truck driver workout, you’ll become a healthy trucker AND relieve stress. It takes time to settle into a truck driver fitness routine, but it’s worth it!
Maintaining truck driver fitness as an American trucker may not be quick and easy, but do you know what is?
It’s a new year! That means New Year’s resolutions and new opportunities to grow.
The last thing you want to think about is the same old taxes.
Well… we’re here to remind you that despite all the new things, the 4th quarter IFTA fuel tax deadline is still coming up on February 1, 2021.
Sad? Don’t be. There’s a way to finish your IFTA reporting fast to avoid IFTA tax late penalties and interest. Here’s everything you need to know to generate your report in time.
Finish IFTA Reporting Before the Deadline
The International Fuel Tax Agreement
The International Fuel Tax Agreement was created to simplify fuel reporting by qualified vehicles operating in more than one jurisdiction.
You’re going to need to complete IFTA filing if you have a qualified vehicle, which is any vehicle designed, maintained, and/or used to transport people or property.
In addition, qualified vehicles have:
– Two axles and a gross vehicle weight exceeding 26,000 pounds or – Two axles and a registered weight exceeding 26,000 pounds or – Three or more or – A combination weight exceeding 26,000 pounds.
Thanks to the International Fuel Tax Agreement, you’ll only have to file your IFTA tax with your base jurisdiction, which is where your vehicle is registered.
Each jurisdiction has different IFTA filing rules, so be sure to check this list.
IFTA Reporting
IFTA reporting is filed 4 times a year with your base jurisdiction to ensure the proper allocation of fuel tax.
Keep track of your IFTA fuel tax mileage and fuel records to help IFTA reporting go smoothly each deadline.
To complete your IFTA fuel tax, you’ll need your business details, vehicle details, and miles & fuel records.
These records include:
– Total miles (taxable and nontaxable) traveled in all states, regardless of whether or not they participate in IFTA, including all trip permit miles – Total gallons/liters of fuel consumed (taxable and nontaxable) in all states, regardless of whether or not they participate in IFTA – Total miles and total taxable miles traveled in each member jurisdiction – Total taxable gallons consumed in each member jurisdiction – Tax-paid gallons/liters purchased in each member jurisdiction – Current tax rates for each member jurisdiction
This information is necessary for generating your IFTA tax return.
Generate IFTA Reports Online
If this sounds like a lot of work, we’ve got a solution.
Simply generate your IFTA report online this quarter with ExpressIFTA, and then you can e-file with your jurisdiction in minutes.
ExpressIFTA is the sister product to ExpressTruckTax… in fact, if you have an ExpressTruckTax account, you already have one for ExpressIFTA!
Simply select the “IFTA” tab at the top of the home page, and log in with your ExpressTruckTax credentials.
With features like Trip Sheets, Quick Entries, and GPS Upload, you can upload fuel & mileage records quickly for multiple vehicles. You can even enter records into the system daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly to update your IFTA tax return at any time.
Best of all, ExpressIFTA does all of the calculated IFTA tax calculations for you! No need to crunch the numbers old-school style.
This IFTA reporting software even checks for basicerrors on your IFTA tax return. Time is running out. Generate your IFTA report online now through your ExpressTruckTax account!
With the approval of the latest round of federal pandemic relief funds on December 27, 2020, struggling small businesses may have the opportunity to acquire additional PPP funding.
The first round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provided $525 billion in funds to businesses. This second round will provide $284 billion to businesses who accepted funding in the first round and need further assistance.
Similarly to the original PPP, businesses must spend 60% or more of their assistance money on payroll in order for the loan to be forgiven. PPP2 also has a provision confirming the tax deductibility of business expenses paid for with forgiven funds. The IRS has been unclear on this regarding the first round of PPP.
PPP2 Eligibility
However, these businesses need to prove several things. Most importantly for small trucking operations, businesses must prove that their quarterly gross income has dropped by at least 25% in any quarter of 2020 relative to that same quarter in 2019. For instance, if a business made $100,000 in the second quarter of 2019 but only $75,000 in the second quarter of 2020, they might be eligible to receive more funding.
Here’s all the criteria businesses need to meet in order to be eligible for PPP2:
Have 300 employees or less.
Accepted a PPP1 loan (which must have been used fully or have a plan for full use)
Quarterly income has dropped by at least 25% in any quarter of 2020 relative to that same quarter in 2019.
While some sectors of the trucking industry have been hit very hard by the pandemic, according to this Overdrive article, most will not meet the 25% revenue decrease required for PPP2 funding.
Should you apply for PPP2?
Obviously the first question to ask yourself is if you meet the eligibility criteria above. Check you books and look at your quarterly numbers especially. If you are not eligible, please don’t bog down the system by adding your application to the mix.
Secondly, you should be aware that there is some language that needs clarification in PPP2, so you may want to wait until that is clarified by the SBA. More information here.
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Before diving into team truck driving you should first have an understanding of what you’re signing up for. We’ve made that decision a little easier for you by giving you the scoop on what teaming up on the road looks like.
Having a partner means longer hours and fewer stops, aside from the time regulations issued by the FMCSA. There is a quicker turnaround time with team drivers, making them high in demand. The demand for team driver is so high, there are some companies who will fully pay for CDL training (Link to How to find the perfect fit to all your CDL Training Needs) if a driver agrees to be a part of a team.
Significantly Higher Pay
There are a lot of incentives that come with team driving associated with pay. Majority of the time team drivers make more per mile. There are a few companies who offer a 5,000 mile-per-week guarantee. No matter if you actually drive that many hours per week you’ll always get paid for driving 5,000 miles. If you happen to exceed those 5,000 miles your pay-per-mile may increase. Keep in mind that the 5,0000 miles will be split between you and your partner.
Example: If a company is offering a 6 figure salary for team truck drivers it means that the bottom line pay per mile is at least .39 per mile, for each driver. This could mean $1,200 more a month per driver compared to drivers who make .28 per mile. (*based on 5,000 miles driven per week)
Stress Less
Cut down on the amount of time it takes to do your pre-trip inspection with a companion to divide the timely duty with. With team driving, comes safety. There is always a slight fear that something may get stolen or worse that you may become a victim of some sort. This may be a stretch, but hey, things happen. With a partner on the road, you also have some extra security and backup, just-in-case.
Quality Time
Choosing the right driving partner is the main piece of having a positive team driving career. Choosing a companion you can trust takes time, but you could go a quicker route and choose someone you already have a bond with. Whether it’s your best friend, your child, or your spouse this could be how you choose to spend your quality time. There are plenty of truckers who miss their
family and friends when traveling for long periods of time, but it doesn’t have to be the case. Choosing a teammate who you already trust makes going to sleep in the sleeper berth while cruising down a steep hill, a little easier.
It is okay to not find team driving attractive, some people enjoy the peace and quiet trucking can bring. If you are interested in trying team driving be sure to go through the partner selection process thoroughly. This will make the biggest difference in whether or not you are a team driving advocate.
Merry Christmas from the ExpressTruckTax family! No matter where you’re truckin’ this holiday season, we hope you and your family have a safe and very Merry Christmas!
We we want to thank you for being the real Santa’s of the world, delivering our gifts and our feasts! Wherever you go, we hope you have safe travels, lovely weather, and a wonderful holiday!
To give our customer support team time with family, our offices will be closed Thursday 12/24 & Friday 12/25, but we will still be providing emergency email support Thursday through Sunday. Just shoot us a message at support@expresstrucktax.com, and someone will get back to you before you can remember the names of Santa’s Eight Reindeer.
And don’t forget that the IRS MeF (Modernized E-File System) will be closing for maintenance from this Friday, December 26th at 1:30 pm EST until mid-January. During the shutdown, you will still be able to E-file your Form 2290 with ExpressTruckTax, but your returns will be held in our system until the IRS site reopens.
To learn more about how the shutdown could affect you, check out our last blog about it.
Need help with HVUT or UCR?
If the holiday chaos is making it impossible to get all of your work done, call our friends over at ExpressTruckTax Plus. As a premier processing agency, they can file your HVUT and UCR for you, and fast too! Just call 877.520.8640 or email ettplus@expresstrucktax.com.
Are you still struggling to find the perfect Christmas gift for that special truck driver in your life? Well, Christmas is just a round the corner, so you better roll on before it is too late. If know a truck driver, what better way to treat them than finding something that is going to make all those long trips a little better. So if you are struggling to find that wow gift we have gathered a list of the best Christmas gifts for truck drivers.
The Best Christmas Gifts For Truck Drivers
1. Heavy Duty Phone Case
Working as a truck driver can be rough, and it is a long way from the cob to the concrete. So having a quality phone case is a must-have for any trucker.
2. AC/DC Power Inverter
Being able to plug in everyday appliances like a TV, microwave, or video game is essential for anyone away from home for days or even weeks at a time. Now your trucker can have some of the conveniences of home while on the road.
3. Audio Books
Sometimes you need a good book to keep you occupied while on a long haul. If your trucker is a reader, you should consider getting them an Audible subscription. They offer thousands of titles from any genre imaginable. There is no way your trucker won’t find something to enjoy.
4. Sirius Radio Subscription
If your trucker is more of a music buff, then I would recommend a Sirius Radio subscription, because let’s be honest there is nothing better than driving along with your favorite tunes. They offer several packages to choose from including sports, racing, and news. No more having to find local radio stations or constantly listen to the same old songs from their iPod.
5. Hotel Voucher
This is a great way to treat your trucker for the day especially if they can’t make it home for Christmas. After a long and stressful day, they get to enjoy a big bed, private shower, wifi, and cable TV.
However, you will need to do your research and consider a lot of details before choosing a hotel. This gesture can quickly turn into a nightmare for your favorite trucker.
Biggie: Do they allow truck parking?
The hotel should be a national chain or have several locations in the region your trucker hauls in.
Check out online reviews and the experience of fellow truckers.
The hotel needs to be located near a major interstate and highway.
Do they allow pets? (If your trucker has a dog with them on the road)
6. Restaurant or Truck Stop Gift Card
A delicious warm meal at a nice sit-down restaurant could just be the things to turn a rough day around. Even an ice cold drink or snack can help your trucker get back on the road in higher spirits. Just remember when you are choosing a truck stop or restaurant that it should be an established chain with truck parking available.
7. Shower Duffel Bag
It might sound like a super simple gift, but truckers will really appreciate it. Pick up a solid color duffle bag with metal zippers because it is higher quality and will last longer. Throw in a big fluffy town, shampoo, conditioner, his favorite wash (if they like bar soap, get a travel case), deodorant, toothpaste, a new toothbrush, and a pair of shower sandals.
8. Seat Cushion or Massage Insert
Trucking driving is hard on the body, and a seat cushion and/or massage cushion is perfect for relieving some of the stress. They can get a massage to ease some of the pain and soreness he gets from his long days on the road.
9. Home Cooked Meal
If your trucker has a mini fridge and access to a microwave, you might consider making a delicious home cooked meal for them to take on the road. This is a great way to remind them of home when they are on the road. Besides, let’s face it, home cooking is always better than what they are getting on the road. Ask your Mom what his favorite meal is and have it ready next time they hits the road. Send your trucker off with some of the luxuries of home.
10. Mobile Air Purifier
Does your trucker suffer from seasonal allergies? Get them a 12-volt air purifier that plugs right into the cigarette lighter. This little device will eliminate dust, odors, pollen, and smoke! This is an inexpensive and thoughtful gift that will help your trucker on a daily basis.
Merry Christmas
No one knows your trucker better than you do and we are sure you’ll find the perfect gift to show them how much they mean to you. We want to take a moment to thank all the truckers out there!
Attention truckers! If you have still have not filed your 2020-21 Form 2290 or you put a new truck on the road in November 2020, you need to file ASAP!
The IRS will be shutting from December 26 until early January! During that time, they will not be accepting or processing any tax forms. That means if you need a 2290 Stamped Schedule 1, you need to file today!
How to File Quickly
The IRS recommends that you e-file with an approved provider like ExpressTruckTax. Not only is this the most secure way to file Form 2290, but it also allows the IRS to accept and process your 2290 quickly.
In most cases, our clients receive their Stamped Schedule 1 back in a matter of minutes. Plus, with the ExpressGuarantee from ExpressTruckTax, you can rest assured that the IRS will accept your 2290 and you will receive your Schedule 1 or your money back!
If you need any assistance at all, you US-based support team is here to help! Simply call (704) 234-6005, email support@expresstrucktax.com, or go to our website to live chat with us.
