Life on the road as a truck driver can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining health and wellness. With long hours behind the wheel and irregular schedules, it’s easy for health to take a backseat. However, prioritizing wellness on the road isn’t just good for long-term health — it can also improve job performance, boost energy levels, and make the journey more enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help truckers stay on top of their health and wellness while on the road. Nutrition on the Go Eating well on the road can be a…
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Life on the Road: What to Expect as a New Trucker
A Typical Day for an OTR Trucker One of the main appeals of trucking is the variety—you won’t be stuck in an office cubicle all day. But this also means you’ll work on a flexible schedule that isn’t always predictable. Long-haul truckers typically drive for hours at a time, planning stops around mandatory rest breaks and delivery schedules. Each day can look different, with new routes, destinations, and loading or unloading times. Learning to adapt to changes and keeping a flexible mindset are crucial skills for thriving as a trucker. Pro Tip: Make a habit of setting daily goals. Tracking…
Understanding the Truck Driver Shortage and Its Impact on the Industry
The trucking industry is the backbone of America’s supply chain, responsible for transporting goods across the country and ensuring that store shelves remain stocked. However, a long-standing truck driver shortage has raised challenges that impact the industry and consumers alike. Understanding the reasons behind the shortage and how it affects the industry can provide insight into the opportunities awaiting new drivers entering the field. Causes of the Truck Driver Shortage Several factors have contributed to the truck driver shortage, creating a gap that the industry has been struggling to fill for years. Aging Workforce: The average age of truck drivers…
Current Regulations Affecting Truckers in 2024
The trucking industry operates within a complex web of regulations designed to maintain safety on the road, protect drivers, and improve the environmental impact of transportation. For new and experienced truckers alike, staying updated on current regulations is crucial to avoid penalties and keep operations running smoothly. Here’s a look at some of the most important regulations affecting truckers in 2024 and tips for staying compliant. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Rules Hours-of-Service regulations were established to prevent driver fatigue and ensure that truckers take sufficient breaks between shifts. These rules mandate the number of hours a driver can be on the road…
How to Become a Successful Owner-Operator
Professional truck drivers have many diverse career options. For example, they can become a regional or over-the-road driver. They can also choose between dry or refrigerated freight. One path that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the owner-operator or O/O role. An O/O is an individual who owns and operates their own trucking business. Some lease onto a motor carrier while others work under their own authority. There are currently 350,000 to 400,000 owner-operators in the United States, according to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. However, a report by TheStreet suggests that the country was short 60,000 drivers…