Author: Marcela De Vivo

The CVSA Brake Inspection Blitz is Here

Posted on September 18, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - CDL pre-trip inspection, Commercial vehicle out of service criteria, Commercial vehicle safety, CVS inspection, CVSA inspection, CVSA-certified inspectors

This week truck inspectors are ramping up enforcement, specifically on brakes, as part of the CVSA Brake Safety Week. This year is a return to normal for the CVSA after limiting last year’s inspection to a single day.

The CVSA has stated that the majority of inspections will be full Level I inspection. However, CVSA inspectors will have a particular interest on your brake components, including loose or missing parts, defective rotor conditions, air or hydraulic fluid leaks, pushrod travel, required brake-system warning devices, and other braking system components. All vehicles with defective or out-of-adjustment brakes will be removed from service until the issue is resolved.

The CVSA has stated that 14% of trucks inspected during the one-day inspection were placed out of service for brake-related violations.

The CVSA Level 1 Inspection

The CVSA (or Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance as many of you already know) uphold the commercial vehicle safety inspections in North America. They monitor the contravention, inspection, and accident information on your carrier profile. There are many inspection types but the level 1 is the most thorough and common. Click here to review the level 1 inspection list from the CVSA website. https://cvsa.org/inspections/inspections/inspection-procedures/

Performance-Based Brake Testing (PBBT)

In addition to the North American Standard Level I Inspection,12 jurisdictions will be using performance-based brake testing (PBBT) equipment to measure your vehicle’s braking efficiency. This will measure the total brake force for your entire vehicle and then divide it by the total vehicle weight to determine the overall vehicles braking efficiency.

“The minimum braking efficiency for trucks is 43.5 percent, required by 393.52 of the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and the CVSA North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria.”

-The Commerical Vehicle Safety Alliance

Again, keep in mind that vehicles with out-of-adjustment or defective brakes will be placed out of service. So that’s a headache you can easily avoid by taking the time to work on your brakes. Also, you should continue performing your pre- and post-trip inspections.

Be Prepared For CVSA’s Brake Safety Day

If you need to perform a little maintenance on your truck now is the time, because if you don’t pass the inspection, you will get parked! Also, please do what you can to spread awareness about brake safety to your fellow drivers to reduce the number of crashes out there.
Please share your thoughts about the CVSA’s Brake Safety Week in the comment section below and be sure to follow us on social media!

Where Would The United States Be Without Truck Drivers?

Posted on September 14, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - american trucking, driver appreciation week, driving wheel, gifts for truck drivers, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2018, nations trucks, truck driver, trucker to trucker

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2018 is this week September 9th -15th. ExpressTruckTax would like to thank all those within the industry for continuing to move America forward each day. However, much of the general public doesn’t realize how important truck drivers are in their lives. We tend to take our daily necessities and luxuries for granted when we don’t see the process. If truck drivers stopped working, the impact on our lives and our economy would be disastrous. So today we are answering the question of “Where Would The United States Be Without Truck Drivers?

Where Would The United States Be Without Truck Drivers?

Take a Moment To Remember 9/11

Posted on September 11, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 9 11 2001, 9 11 death toll, 9/11, attack on the pentagon, flight 93, never forget, remembering September 11, September 11 terrorists, September 11 tribute, twin towers attack, twin towers usa attack, wtc victims

No matter where you are and what you’re hauling today be sure to take a moment and reflect on 9/11, as today is the 17th anniversary of the deadliest terror attack on U.S. soil.

We know your hearts will swell with pride today as you see people on bridges and overpasses proudly waving our American flag. Many people can remember where they were and what they were doing the moment they heard about planes striking the World Trade Center. Those memories will most likely never be forgotten.

17 years ago the nation as a whole stopped as we watched the attack on World Trade Centers in New York. However, while the attacks shattered the steel of the twin towers, they could never dent the steel of the American resolve. In a time when the U.S. is divided with anger, violence, and strife it feels appropriate that we take a moment to remember.

16 years ago today we stood together as a nation and pledged to

#neverforget.

During the attack, 2,763 people were killed within the burning and finally collapsing towers, including 343 brave firefighters and paramedics who struggled to evacuate the building and save the individuals trapped on blocked floors.

Hold your family and friends close, no one is guaranteed tomorrow. Let us stand together today and every day knowing that the cost of freedom does not come cheap and remembering all who were lost on that tragic day.

Two beams of light will be shooting into the sky tonight where the towers originally stood as a display to show Americans that we will never forget what happened as time passes and we progress as a stronger nation.

Join us in honoring our nation and all of those who were lost that day by saving this image and sharing it with #neverforget!

Driver Appreciation Week 2018 Gift Ideas They Will Love

Posted on September 6, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - american trucking, driver appreciation week, driving wheel, gifts for truck drivers, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2018, nations trucks, truck driver, trucker to trucker

If you are reading this blog, you are most likely a truck driver yourself or friend/family member of someone in the industry. You already know that truck drivers are among the hardest-working individuals, committing their life to tackle one of the toughest jobs in America. Without them, we would be unable to enjoy most of the convenient comforts we have come to expect. So, with National Driver Appreciation Week pulling up fast, you are likely looking for ways to treat yourself or honor your valued road warrior. While we can’t ever thank them enough for stocking our grocery shelves and so much more, here are a few Driver Appreciation Week 2018 gift ideas they will love.

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Gift Ideas

1. Heavy Duty Phone Case

Working as a truck driver can be rough, and it’s a long way from the cab to the concrete. So 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 driver can have some of the conveniences of home while on the road.

3. Audiobooks

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 him or her an Audible subscription. They offer thousands of titles from any genre imaginable. There is no way your driver 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 driver, especially if they are on the road. 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 in which your loved one performs their hauls.
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 they have 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 thing to turn a rough day around. Even an ice cold drink or snack can help your driver 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 your trucker 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 towel, shampoo, conditioner, their favorite wash (if your trucker likes 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. Your trucker can get a massage to ease some of the pain and soreness they get from his long days on the road.

9. Home Cooked Meal

If your trucking friend or family member 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 ’re on the road. Besides, let’s face it, home cooking is always better than what’s available on the road.

10. Mobile Air Purifier

Do they suffer from seasonal allergies? Get your driver 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 them on a daily basis.

ExpressTruckTax Appreciates You, Drivers!

We appreciate everyone in the trucking industry, so much so that we say thanks to drivers year round. One week isn’t enough time to acknowledge what you do.

Please share your thoughts on trucker appreciation in the comment section and click here for more trucking blogs.

So Your IRS Form 2290 Was Rejected. What’s Next?

Posted on September 4, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 2290 tax due date, express truck tax, expresstrucktax, form 2290 due date, Form 2290 filing, Heavy highway use tax, heavy use tax, Pay 2290 with credit card, Schedule 1 form 2290

Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) IRS Form 2290 due date was Friday, August 31st. Yup, that’s right; it was last Friday. This means you are on the clock and you need to file Form 2290 fast to avoid higher penalties and interest. Remember, if you filed before the deadline and it was rejected you are still subject to penalties until you file a corrected form.

Why 2290 Forms Are Commonly Rejected

So why wait? Go ahead and use ExpressTruckTax to quickly and conveniently knock out your IRS Form 2290 today. As a bonus, use the following tips about why 2290 forms are commonly rejected to get yours accepted the first time.

EIN Problems

You need an EIN or Employer Identification Number to complete your IRS Form 2290. There’s no way around it. If you use your SSN (Social Security Number) in place of your EIN when you file Form 2290, it will be rejected instantly.

Duplicated IRS Form 2290

Your rig’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can only be filed for once during the HVUT tax period. Duplicates will be rejected, so make sure that you’re filing for the current tax period which runs from July 1st, 2018 to June 30th, 2019. If you accidentally filed for the previous tax period then that could be why your form is considered a duplicate.

You also need to make sure that you enter your VIN correctly. If it’s one character off, then your form could get rejected. If your form is rejected for this reason don’t panic, you can quickly and easily file free VIN corrections with ExpressTruckTax.

RTN Errors

You can pay the amount of HVUT you owe to the IRS through direct debit or electronic funds withdrawal, and that process involves providing your bank account number and RTN (Routing Transfer Number).

If you enter this information with as little as one character off, the IRS will not be able to debit the funds, and your form will be rejected. This is also the case if you do not have enough funds in your account to cover the full amount.

Enter your information, which can be found on one of your checks, correctly. If your form is rejected for an incorrect RTN or insufficient funds you will need to edit your form and retransmit it or choose a different payment method.

Current IRS Penalties And Interest

If you have failed to file your Form 2290 or a corrected amendment you are facing a penalty of 4.5 % of the total tax amount due. Your penalty will increase on a monthly basis for up to five months. Plus, if you failed to make your HVUT payment will also need to pay a .5% penalty per month until it is paid in full.

More importantly, you are driving with an expired Schedule 1. You need your stamped Schedule 1 to register new vehicles and to renew your tags with the DMV. Without it, you are operating illegally.

Form 2290 Filing Made Easy

If you still need to file Form 2290 click the link below to get started. ExpressTruckTax provides you a quick and convenient e-filing process for hassle-free Form 2290 filing.

If you have any questions, our dedicated bilingual support team is here for you every step of the way. We promise never to stick you with a robot or automated call system. Shocking I know! We discovered people want to talk to a real person when they call a company.

You can also send us an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24-hour support in both English and Spanish.

File My Form 2290 Today!

Warning! Today is The IRS Form 2290 Due Date

Posted on August 31, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 2290 tax due date, express truck tax, expresstrucktax, form 2290 due date, Form 2290 filing, Heavy highway use tax, heavy use tax, Pay 2290 with credit card, road tax 2290, Schedule 1 form 2290

Did you notice that alarm going off in the back of your mind? That’s totally normal, don’t worry about it. It simply means that the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Form 2290 deadline is here.

……..Wait, What?!……

Yup, that’s right! Today, August 31st is your IRS Form 2290 Due Date

If this news has caught you off guard I highly suggest you get a move on–– and fast! Today is the last day you can file without facing severe IRS 2290 penalties.

So, take a deep breath, relax, and sign up for your free ExpressTruckTax account. Knock out your Form 2290 online filing and receive your stamped Schedule 1 in a matter of minutes. Our 2290 filing process is quick and easy, so you don’t need to panic or feel the need to rush. Go ahead and file right now so you can get back to focusing on the road.

The HVUT Form 2290 Deadline Is Here

You need to file your Form 2290 online today or you could be subject to major penalties. For example, the penalty for failing to file by the deadline is 4.5% of the total tax due, assessed on a monthly basis for up to five months. If you file late and fail to make an HVUT payment by the deadline you’ll also face a monthly fee of .5% of the total tax you owe. Plus, an additional interest charge of .54% will also accrue.

That’s why it’s super important to file by the deadline. When you file with the #1 trusted name in the trucking industry, ExpressTruckTax, you will get a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email within minutes of filing. You can also choose to have it faxed or mailed to you.

Your stamped Schedule 1 serves as your proof of HVUT payment, so you really need it. Plus, it’s required by the DMV to register new heavy vehicles and to renew your tags. Without it, you won’t be legally operating your truck!

Enough chit chat, you know you have to file, so here’s how you do it. Sign up for your free ExpressTruckTax account and follow our easy step-by-step instructions to complete your 2290.

If you’re out on the road, you don’t need to find a computer or an IRS office to file. Simply download the ExpressTruckTax mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. This way you can file from any location from the comfort of your own cab.

Start My Form 2290 Filing Today!

The Easiest Way to File Form 2290

Looking for an even easier way to file? Our sister product, ExpressTruckTax Plus, is a full-service 2290 filing solution. The process is straightforward and will take less than 5 minutes. Simply give them your information over the phone, and they will file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf. Once they have submitted your information to the IRS, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email. Their outstanding bilingual team supports filing in both English and Spanish.

ExpressTruckTax Plus: 803.386.0320

Tomorrow is the Deadline to File Form 2290

Posted on August 30, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 2290 Form 2018, 2290 form online, 2290 tax, express truck tax, expresstrucktax, form 2290 due date, Form 2290 filing, Form 2290 instructions, heavy use tax, HVUT, RIS Form 2290

Whoa, it’s time to get moving! Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Form 2290 is due tomorrow, August 31 at midnight. The deadline is here! That means you’re literally running out of time to file without facing major penalties.

This little piece of news might send you straight to panic mode, but try and stay calm. You can file Form 2290 in a matter of minutes with ExpressTruckTax. Plus, to help you file even faster, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions and provided the answers.

HVUT Form 2290 FAQs

1. What is my first use month?
Your first use month is the first month that you use your heavy vehicle during the tax period. The current HVUT period runs from July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019. So if you were driving your current rig this time last year you are required to file by tomorrow’s HVUT deadline.

However, if you purchased a new rig during the previous tax year, you will need to base your due date on your first used month.

2. Can I pay the amount of HVUT I owe with a credit card?
Absolutely! Starting this truck tax season, the IRS is now allowing you to pay 2290 with credit card or debit! Or another option is to pay with direct debit or electronic funds withdrawal, by authorizing the IRS to debit the amount you owe from your bank account. To do this, you will need to provide your bank account and routing number, which can be found on one of your checks.

Or you can also pay with the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, where you will create a free account at www.ettps.gov. The amount you owe will be debited from your bank account, but it could take up to 10 days to create your account.

If you want to, you can mail the amount you owe directly to the IRS with a check or money order. Just print your completed 2290-V (your payment voucher) from page 11 of your completed 2290 form and mail it with your payment.

3. What is an EIN?
Your EIN is your Employer Identification Number, and it’s used to identify a business entity. To complete Form 2290, you need an EIN and can apply for one online with the IRS. If you already have an EIN, it can be found on a previous stamped Schedule 1.

You cannot use your Social Security Number in place of your EIN on HVUT Form 2290. If you use your SSN instead of your EIN, your form will be rejected. If you need an EIN, you better hop to it because it takes about 14 days for your EIN to become active in the IRS’s system and your form could get rejected during that time.

4. How Do I file?
It’s easy! Choose Express Truck Tax and follow the step-by-step e-filing guide to complete your form in 5 minutes or less. As a result, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 within a few minutes via email.

Are you out on a trip without access to a computer? Then download the ExpressTruckTax mobile app to your smartphone or tablet to file at any time, from any location. ExpresstruckTax is just as mobile as you are!

Or you could call ExpressTruckTax Plus at 803.386.0320 to have a local, US-based representative file for you over the phone. It’s the quickest and most convenient way to file, all you have to do is answer a few questions to complete your Form 2290. After you finish filing a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 will be sent to your email.

Start My Form 2290 Filing Today!

Looking for an even easier way to file? Our sister product, ExpressTruckTax Plus, is a full -service 2290 filing solution. The process is straightforward and will take less than 5 minutes. Simply give them your information over the phone, and they will file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf. Once they have submitted your information to the IRS, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email. Their outstanding bilingual team supports filing in both English and Spanish.

ExpressTruckTax Plus: 803.386.0320

File Your HVUT Form 2290 Now And Pay Later

Posted on August 29, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 2290 tax due date, form 2290 due date, Form 2290 filing, Heavy highway use tax, heavy use tax, Pay 2290 with credit card, road tax 2290, Schedule 1 form 2290

Whoa, it’s time to get moving! Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Form 2290 is due Friday, August 31st at midnight. The deadline is here! That means you’re literally running out of time to file without facing major penalties.

We know this puts you in quite a state of urgency, but stay calm. You can file Form 2290 in a matter of minutes with ExpressTruckTax. Here is why you should file your HVUT Form 2290 now even if you can’t pay your truck taxes.

Why You Should File Form 2290 Now

If you file Form 2290 late, you will have to face a steep penalty of 4.5% of your total tax amount. However, if you pay your truck tax after the deadline, it is a less severe penalty of .5%. We highly encourage you to go ahead and file your Form 2290 now even if you can not make all or partial payment.

File Form 2290 today and choose check or money order to pay later.

If you don’t file by the deadline, you will not receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1. Since your previous Schedule 1 expired in June, you will be placed out of service, if it is not renewed. You need your stamped Schedule 1 to renew your tags with the DMV.

Form 2290 Filing Made Easy With ExpressTruckTax

ExpressTruckTax provides you a quick and convenient e-filing process for hassle-free Form 2290 filing. To file Form 2290 and pay later simply select the check or money order option when prompted. When you are able to make your truck tax payment you can mail it directly to the IRS.

Trust us it is in your best interest to at least file Form 2290 by the August 31st deadline. Imagine the hassle of getting pulled over and trying to explain expired tags. If you are placed out of service it will be even harder to make your truck tax payment.

Start My Form 2290 Filing Today!

ExpressTruckTax Plus: 803.386.0320

The Most Common Reasons For Form 2290 Rejections

Posted on August 28, 2018 by Marcela De Vivo - 2290 Form 2018, EIN Number, express truck tax, expresstrucktax, Federal Tax Identification Number, FEIN Number, Form 2290 due dates, Form 2290 instructions 2018, Form 2290 Online

The HVUT deadline is racing towards us at full speed! Friday, August 31st is the last day to file without IRS penalties and interest! While you might be tempted to wait until the last minute, it’s important to give yourself enough time to file your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax 2290 Forms. If your form is rejected, then it’s up to you to correct it and retransmit it to the IRS in time; otherwise, you will still face late filing penalties.