Category: truck driver

5 Need To Know Trucker Tips For Driving in The Mountains

7 Need To Know Trucker Tips For Driving in The Mountains

Driving in the mountains can be intimidating for truck drivers, and that is especially true for rookie drivers. However, you can quickly gain confidence on mountain routes by following some basic safety rules and taking advantage of safety features available to you. Here are the seven need to know trucker tips for driving in the mountains.

Trucker Mountain Driving Tips


#1 Slow And Steady

Taking it slow and steady is probably the best advice for driving mountain routes. So many drivers make the mistake of traveling too fast on the steep grade because they misjudged its elevation based on its appearance. It’s tough to tell the grade of a hill just by looking at it, so it’s easy to make this mistake.

However, once your truck gains momentum traveling down the grade, it is nearly impossible to regain control. So take it slow and steady so as not to put yourself in this situation.

Our advice is to let the jake brake do the work of maintaining the constant speed. Also, touch the brake occasionally to keep your unit straight as you go down the hill. 

#2 Pay Attention to The Weather

If you are planning a route into the mountains, you will need to check the weather conditions. Mountain weather is unpredictable, so it is essential to check the weather the day of. If you find bad or dangerous weather conditions, you can consider an alternate route hopefully without a steep grade.

You should prepare yourself for changes in the weather as you are climbing or descending the mountain. The difference in altitude can bring a slew of weather conditions, so it is essential for you to stay alert to any changes.

Also, if there is a chain sign, please respect it. Put your chains on at the bottom of the hill. Don’t wait until you spin out and come back down the mountain.

#3 Don’t Tailgate

Leave as much room as possible between your and the vehicles ahead of you. Never tailgate on a mountain road. In the case of an emergency and you need to straighten out the truck. If your unit gets out of shape, you will want plenty of space to adjust.

7 Need To Know Trucker Tips For Driving in The Mountains

#4 Easy on Corners

Take corner on a mountain extra slow because your truck and trailer are extra vulnerable when not straight. Your rig is much more likely to jackknife when turning. You have much more controls over the unit when it is lined up traveling a straight line.

#5 Regaining Control

If you feel you are starting to lose control of the rig, try crowding the unit to the shoulder of the road if possible. This will hopefully allow you to catch gravel to straighten it out. Also gently tap on the trailer brake. This might be enough to pull your unit straight again.

Stay Safe Out There

Keep in mind, not every driver on the road is following all the proper safe driving rules and tips. They are just as likely to lose control or hit a patch of ice. Give yourself plenty of distance and be aware of potential dangers.

Also, before I let you go, I wanted to introduce our sister product, TruckLogics: the ultimate web-based business management software available. This program is designed specifically for the transportation industry with plans to fit the needs of fleet manager, leased owner-operators, and owner-operators alike. Sign-up for your free 15-day trial and see the difference TruckLogics can make in your trucking business.

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Where Would The United States Be Without Truck Drivers?

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?

Driver Appreciation Week 2018 Gift Ideas They Will Love

Driver Appreciation Week 2018 Gift Ideas They Will Love

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

Driver Appreciation Week 2018 Gift Ideas They Will Love

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. 

Roaring Good Time at The Bandit Series Race

This past weekend the ExpressTruckTax team attended the Bandit Big Rig Series race at the Hickory Motor Speedway. We have to tell you that it far exceeded our expectations! In addition to the nail-biting races we got to see fireworks, see some awesome customized rigs, and meet some of our hard-working clients. Here are some pictures of the race we just had to share.

Click here for the Bandit Series 2018 Event Schedule. Trust us, you don’t wanna miss out!

 

Roaring Time at The Bandit Series Race
Hickory Motor Speedway at the Bandit Series Race August 11th, 2018


Having a blast handing out flyers and koozies before the race!
Having a blast handing out flyers and koozies before the race!
The Bandit Series even had a blow-up bounce house for the kids.
The Bandit Series even had a blow-up bounce house for the kids.


The green flag drops at Hickory Motor Speedway
The green flag drops at Hickory Motor Speedway
Victory lane with race champion Ricky Rude of the #14
Victory lane with race champion Ricky Rude of the #14

(Top Row left to right: Bryan Hinson (Transportation Product Manager), Ariel Black (yours truly, Content Marketing Manager/PR Coordinator), Meredith Dotson (Business Development Manager), Andreas Hollmers (Client Relations), Amber Tabb (ExpressAmber Personality/ Director of Transportation Products), and Little Express Team Members (Cuteness Coordinators)
(Top Row left to right: Bryan Hinson (Transportation Product Manager), Ariel Black (Yours Truly, Content Marketing Manager/PR Coordinator), Meredith Dotson (Business Development Manager), Andreas Hollmers (Client Relations), Amber Tabb (ExpressAmber Personality/ Director of Transportation Products), and Little Express Team Members (Cuteness Coordinators)

You Can Catch Us At The Bandit Race This Weekend

You Can Catch Us At The Bandit Race This Weekend

On Saturday, August 11th, 2018 the ExpressTruckTax team will be attending the Bandit Big Rig Series at the Hickory Motor Speedway in North Carolina. This series has brought big rig tractor trailer racing back to the short track. If you find yourself at the race please be sure to stop by and meet us!

About The Bandit Big Rig Series

The Minimizer Bandit Big Rig Series brings a day-long racing entertainment experience to trucking professionals, their families, and trucking enthusiasts alike. Since their inaugural season in 2017 with an Eastern Division, the series has continued to focus on delivering an affordable racing opportunity to local speedways.

The trucks are kept basic and simple, which limits costs and increases accessibility, The Minimizer Bandit Big Rig Series does whatever it takes to maximize competition and deliver an exciting product with world-class trucks & drivers.

Meet The ExpressTruckTax Team
If you are in attendance be sure to tweet us as #ETTGoesRacing or tag us on Facebook!

Let’s Go Racing!

See What’s Happening at the Truckers Jamboree

Truck driver and rig at the trucker jamboree


The 39th annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree is officially underway at the Iowa 80 Truck Stop. They are featuring a truck beauty contest, live concerts, trucker Olympic games, and so much more! If you aren’t able to attend the Truckers Jamboree, we completely understand (we are in the same boat), so to help you feel a part of the fun, we are sharing what’s happening at the Truckers Jamboree!

Here are a few photos and videos of the trucks and event happening at the show:

A few of the entrants from today’s “Super Truck Beauty Contest” at the #WalcottJamboree! @thyssenkrupp is excited to be one of the sponsors and is looking forward to meeting you 7/12-7/14. So, come check us out and find out what it’s like to #drive4tk. #Iowa80 #thyssenkruppUSA pic.twitter.com/lN2eIl4l7M

— thyssenkrupp Career (@thyssenkruppjob) July 13, 2018

— Desiree (@TruckerDesiree) July 13, 2018

Who loves Fireworks? You can see them Thursday & Friday at the Walcott Truckers Jamboree! #walcottjamboree #iowa80 pic.twitter.com/GPymygev3j

— Iowa 80 Truckstop (@Iowa80Truckstop) July 11, 2018

Can you pull this truck? Come give it a shot at the #truckerolympics #TruckersJamboree @Todaystrucking pic.twitter.com/H3FSMdnlaU

— David Henry (@crazycanuckdave) July 13, 2018

Come visit our booth and check out our truck decked out in #RoadWorksMfg accessories at the #Iowa80 #WalcottJamboree this weekend! pic.twitter.com/rSutyKdRlo

— RoadWorks Mfg (@RoadWorksMfg) July 13, 2018

“End of Watch” tribute to fallen Law Enforcement Officers. Designed and built by Jake and Stephanie Robak. @Todaystrucking #TruckersJamboree pic.twitter.com/4hW5tQbR5X

— David Henry (@crazycanuckdave) July 13, 2018

There are 27 trucks parked for the Super Truck Beauty Contest. Who else is on their way? pic.twitter.com/JfWjaXta9U

— Iowa 80 Truckstop (@Iowa80Truckstop) July 10, 2018

Truckstop hosts 39th annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree https://t.co/gy6cL5te4E pic.twitter.com/d0bXoGHLCh

— Quad-City Times (@qctimes) July 8, 2018

How to Stay Cool And Survive Summer Trucking

How to Stay Cool And Survive Summer Trucking

We are sure that you are very well aware that summer is here in full force. Whether you have recently received your CDL license or are a seasoned veteran, you will want to take precautions as the summer continues to heat up. We know you are putting in a lot of hours on the road, maybe even in areas with record-breaking high temperatures. Even though you are in your vehicle, you still face the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, overheating, and even heat stroke. Summer means a whole new set of issues for those in the trucking industry so to help here is how to stay cool and survive summer trucking.

How to Stay Cool And Survive Summer Trucking

Sitting in a hot cab all day long can be brutal and even dangerous to your health. Follow these tips to beat the summer heat while driving your trucking business to new levels.

 

Stay Hydrated

It is easy to forget to drink water while on the road, however, it is critical to stay adequately hydrated particularly during these next two months. Keeping a few bottles of water within reach while driving will serves as a constant reminder and make it practical for you to drink water throughout your drive. Also, it is worth mentioning that sodas and other carbonated drinks are no substitution for drinking water. The sugar and caffeine in sodas will dehydrate you and will not replace the fluids you are losing while you sweat.

Check Your Tires Constantly

The chances of tire blowouts increase dramatically during the summer months because of the high temperatures. What you can do to try and prevent this is to check that your tires are adequately inflated each time you stop for a required break or when you are pulling out in the morning. Under-inflated tires are more likely to blowout, so it is essential to be prepared.

Check Traffic Reports

Families, teenagers, and college students are all hitting the road during summer vacation, so it is crucial that you stay on the lookout during all hours of the day. You should remain alert and cautious while on the road this season. Heavier traffic means more danger for truck drivers, so you will want to check the traffic report and be aware of your surroundings.

Check Your Brakes

Hot summer temperatures can lead to brakes fading or even losing friction when brake components can’t absorb any additional heat. Always be sure to check your brakes to make sure they are functioning correctly before leaving on your next haul. It is recommended that you bring spare brake pads before leaving home. This will not only potentially save you but also some money because you won’t have to pay the service center. 

Protect Yourself From The Sun

Spending several hours a day driving means you will have a lot of sun exposure on your left side. Don’t believe that just because you are in your cab that you are protected from the sun. While the sun is shining through your window, it is still a serious health risk that can lead to sunburns and even skin cancer. We recommend you wear a long sleeve shirt, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as much as possible while on the road.

Bring a Hardhat

How to Stay Cool And Survive Summer Trucking

Because of the warmer temperatures, more construction companies will be out working on the roads. You should always be careful when passing through construction zones and remember that the Get Over law is still in effect in every state. It is required by law that if you see an emergency vehicle or someone on the side of the road you must get over or slow down. Your rig is likely over 55,000 Ibs, and it does not stop on a dime, make sure to hit the breaks sooner rather than later.

Fines and other fees also skyrocket in construction areas, and likely officers are waiting to get someone. We don’t want it to be you.

Also, bring a brightly colored hardhat with you on the road. People are statistically more likely to take notice of you on the roadside if are wearing a hard hat. If by some unfortunate circumstance you find yourself on the side of the road, be sure to wear it.

Have a Great Safe Summer

While summer is hot and we like it, UV rays and high temperatures can do a number on our bodies! So remember to protect yourself while you are either hauling or enjoying a well-deserved vacation.

For more trucking tips and advice click here and be sure to share this blog with your fellow drivers!

If you have yet to file your HVUT Form 2290 click here to learn more! The Form 2290 due date is August 31st. Trust us you don’t want to be late and have to pay insane IRS penalties and fees.

Start My Form 2290 Filing Now

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4th

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4thWith a growing economy and rising consumer confidence, you can expect more than a few four-wheelers on the road this holiday weekend. This Independence Day the AAA has estimated 41.9 million travelers until Sunday, July 8th. This number is up 0.7 percent from last year’s estimate and the highest number since 2007 since before the great recession. At ExpressTruckTax we want you to always be prepared. Here is what you need to know about traffic July 4th.

The AAA says that the worst congestion can be expected around metropolitan areas as holiday travels are combined with regular commuters during the weekdays.

“This Independence Day will be one for the record books, as more Americans take to the nation’s roads, skies, rails and waterways than ever before,” Bill Sutherland, senior vice president of AAA Travel and Publishing, said in a statement from the company. “Confident consumers with additional disposable income will look to spend on travel this holiday, building on an already busy summer travel season.”

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4thAt ExpressTruckTax we hope you will spend this Independence Day with your family and friends, however, if you find yourself out on the open road, we want to share our sincere appreciation. It is through the untiring resolve of those like yourself in the trucking community that we are able to celebrate. Your rigs brought us the fireworks, hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, charcoal, and grill that we all get to enjoy.

From the staff at ExpressTruckTax, we thank you for your dedication and determination in serving millions of Americans across the nation. ExpressTruckTax appreciates your continued efforts to keeping America moving. Happy Independence Day!

The Ultimate Trucker Gifts

ExpressTruckTax wishes truck drivers a merry Christmas

Y’all Christmas is only a few days away, so you better finish up your shopping before you run out of time. Make a list, and check it twice, then remember to get the trucker in your life something meaningful even if they’ve been naughty or nice.

December is one of the busiest times a year for truckers as they drive all over the nation delivering presents to make Christmas possible! The driver in your life deserves a relaxing break to celebrate the holidays with you and their loved ones, so get them something great. Check out our list of the perfect trucking gifts for both the male and lady truckers.

The Best Trucking Gifts

1. Hands-Free Devices

We know you want to check up on the trucker in your life when they are on the road, but holding phones and other devices can be really distracting. Consider getting them a wireless headset so they can talk to you, hands-free. You could also get them a dash mount for their phone and wireless headphones.

2. Warm Gear

Winter is here and many states have experienced snow. Even Atlanta got a good dump! Your trucker will be up early in the morning and late at night doing pre-trip inspections in the cold. Make sure they can stay warm with utility gloves and a nice hat or coat.

Also, it’s cold OTR. Make sure they stay warm in the cab once they park with a space heater or electric blanket. The blanket doesn’t even have a lot of space because they’re available in throw sizes.

3. Coffee

Trucking is exhausting, your driver needs coffee to get moving and keep moving. Help them out by giving them the gift of instant coffee in their rig with a portable coffee maker. Also, get them a heavy duty thermos like a YETI one to keep their coffee warm for hours. Some truckers would like a mug the size of a gallon and you can also get ones with your photo on them for their favorite sports team.

4. T-Shirts

Truckers like to ride in comfort and style, that means they don’t need just any t-shirt but cool ones to flaunt at the truck stop. You can get trucking shirts with funny sayings like, “I just dropped a load.” You can also get them shirts for their favorite trucking shows like Ice Road Truckers or for awesome truck shops like Jack’s Chrome Shop.

5. Gift Cards or Cash 

ExpressTruckTax thanks truckers for their hard work
Harper, the famous trucking corgi. 

You can give the trucker in your life the ability to pamper themselves by allowing them to shop for themselves. With a gift card or cash, they will be able to get excited and go shop for what they really want. We know truckers are always wanting something cool from Wal-Mart or new tools from the hardware store.

6. Don’t Forget Their Pets

Many drivers take furry pals along on the road and they are more than best friends forever. They’re partners in trucking adventures. If your trucker has a dog, cat, bird or more, include them. Get them a new bone, catnip toy, sweater, bed, blanket, etc. Items that keep the pet entertained are best. The possibilities are endless and your trucker will really enjoy seeing their spoiled buddy included in the holiday festivities.

Happy Holidays From ExpressTruckTax

Here at ExpressTruckTax, we seriously appreciate all the hard work you do all year long to deliver essential needs all across the nation. We hope you get the chance to relax this holiday season with your loved ones. While your holiday is filled with classic traditions and laughs we hope the perfect trucking gift is included.

Please tell us what you want for Christmas in the comment section below and visit ExpresstruckTax for more trucking blogs.

How To Beat Unforgiving Solitude On The Road

ExpressTruckTax provides tips to beat homesickness

A number of people are attracted to the trucking industry to enjoy the freedom of being alone and enjoying adventures on the road. The appeal of seeing new places and beautiful views highly outweigh sitting at a desk with a boss breathing down your neck all day.

However, sometimes drivers can miscalculate how much time they will actually be spending alone in their rig. When traveling through remote areas they can go for days without having a friendly conversation with someone.

Plus, some days homesickness and missing your loved ones can really set in, but this should not steer you away from a career in trucking. There are ways to battle unforgiving solitude on the road.

Fighting Solitude

1. Break Up The Silence

Don’t just ride for miles listening to the sounds your truck makes as it barrels down the road. Fill your cab with entertaining noises. Turn your CB on to listen to what other truckers are talking about and join in on the conversation.

You could also invest in a satellite radio subscription so you don’t have to keep switching to different local stations all day. This way you can find a station you like and stick with it. There are also a number of trucking podcasts you can listen to on a weekly basis that actually discuss what’s happening in the industry.

If you download a music app like Pandora or Spotify you can build your own playlist. Your friends and loved ones can also make custom playlists and send them to you.

2. Talk To Meaningful People

You will run into a lot of people on a daily basis while delivering and picking up loads, but the guys at the warehouse are there to get the job done. They don’t necessarily want to shoot the breeze and might be a little short, but don’t take it personally.

Talk to the people who matter in your life. Give your friends and family a call back at home or video chat with them to see their faces. Seeing your kid’s smile will really turn your day around.

ExpressTruckTax promotes trucker health

There are also a number of online forums to connect with fellow truckers online. Once you make friends with a fellow driver then you will have a new friend for life. You guys will talk about the industry and may even spot each other around different areas of the country.

3. Bring A Pet Or Friend On The Road

Nothing livens up your rig like a four-legged pal, even though some truckers also swear that having birds or snakes on the road are excellent companions. Just be sure to put some thought into what type of pet you want to bring and be prepared for them. For example, cats will need a secure litter box, and puppies will go through their teething phase no matter where they are.

A majority of pets that work well on the road include smaller and lazier dog breeds who don’t require frequent stops. Also, older cats who like to chill do well. However, we’ve seen all sorts of animals enjoy the trucker life.

If your spouse has some time off work or your kids have a school vacation bring them along for a trucking adventure. They will love riding in your big rig and seeing what the trucker life is like. For kids especially, the trucking industry can be really exciting.

4. Make Your Cab Feel Like Home

Why not take the time to make your cab feel like a mini home to enjoy while you’re away? Take your favorite blanket or pillow with you, or hang up posters for your favorite sports team. You can also bring your favorite coffee mugs.

Go ahead and get a TV so you can watch your favorite Netflix shows or movies. You can also get a gaming console to enjoy your favorite video games and even play them online with your friends and kids.

Why not bring your comfort food too? Outfit your rig with a mini fridge, hot plate, microwave, and maybe even a crockpot to cook your favorite meals. You could also cook a few of your favorite meals before your trip and bring them with you to enjoy later.

Enjoy The Road

Nothing beats getting away from people to enjoy the tranquility of being alone, but sometimes loneliness can catch up with you. You could be on the road for weeks at a time and sometimes a call
from a shipper could cut your time at home short. However, when this happens it’s easy to beat unforgiving solitude by making a little effort to connect with your loved ones and make your cab feel like home.

Tell us how you beat the solitude of the road in the comment section below and visit ExpressTruckTax.com for more trucking blogs.