Intermodal: What is It?Before we talk about the perks of intermodal trucking, we first need to discuss what intermodal transportation means. Intermodal transportation is moving cargo in specially designed containers, using a combination of shipping methods to get the cargo from point A to point B. The containers are weather-hardy and fit securely on several types of transport. A sample intermodal delivery might start with overseas freight shipping to a US port on a cargo ship. Trains pick up the containers from the ports and deliver to a rail station. And from there, a truck driver picks up the container. This is one example, but it really is any combination of moving these containers by air, sea, rail or over the road. Now that we have discussed what it is, let’s take a look at the perks for someone considering a job as an intermodal driver. 1. Consistent ScheduleIf a healthy work/life balance is important to you and your lifestyle, intermodal trucking might be a good choice for you. We spoke with an intermodal truck driver, David, and he shared his experience on the road:
Driving from shipyards and railyards usually works on the same schedule of those workers, so a steady 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and sleeping at home daily isn’t out of the question. In this case, the containers are dependable and so are the work hours. 2. Less Labor and PackingThe shipping containers move from transport vehicle to transport vehicle. They stay packed as is and sealed from the time they leave, until they get to their destination. This means the truck drivers don’t need to do too much work for pickup and delivery, and they certainly don’t need to load and unload like what might be necessary with a trailer. At each stop the container moves to, there’s specialty equipment there to pick up the containers and place them on the trucks. It’s usually no touch for the drivers, which means less wear and tear on your body, and more time moving down the road. 3. FlexibilitySome drivers find a real perk to be the flexibility that intermodal trucking provides to a driver. We talked to another intermodal truck driver, Ritsuko, and she shared what she loves about intermodal trucking, including seeing the country and making money.
If you’re looking for an new opportunity, or a job with the intermodal trucking perks we mention here, let us help. At Drive My Way we can help you find a new job, perfect for you. We’ve got plenty of intermodal opportunities, and one might be a great fit for you. Find a Intermodal Trucking JobWe match you with a job based on your personal preferences and qualifications. The post The 3 Perks of Intermodal Trucking appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct
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Loading dock etiquette might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the skills that truck drivers need. Depending on your haul range and load type, you may spend more or less time at loading docks. But, whether you love them or hate them, loading docks are a part of trucker life. Here are 5 tips on loading dock etiquette that will help get you in and out as smoothly as possible. 1. Communicate WellGood communication is part of the foundation for every relationship. On the job, that includes the time you spend at the loading dock. While most drivers know more or less what to expect at the loading dock, always lean on the side of more communication. Don’t assume everyone is on the same page. So, what happens when you run into some dock workers who are taking their sweet time to load or unload your truck?
If loading or unloading starts to get really slow, make a note to share that with your boss. Let them handle the conversation with the shipper. Different docks have different policies, so it’s important to have communication in both directions. As a driver, let them know what you need and if you run into delays. On the other hand, be open to what the dock workers are saying if they have specific instructions. Even if it sounds unnecessary or weird to you, dock workers might have specific regulations to follow. 2. Be PreparedIf you’re going to a place that you’ve been before, you may know the route and any tips or tricks that will help you navigate the loading dock. If you’re going to a new location, try to find out some information before you go. Talk to other drivers at your company--they might have valuable information to share. They might warn you about potential issues or give a good review of their experience. On the same note, share your expertise with other drivers if they ask! For familiar and unfamiliar locations, make sure you have your paperwork ready before you arrive. Just like it’s a pain to wait on a disorganized shipper, you can make everyone’s lives a little smoother by having everything together before you arrive. 3. Stay SharpLoading docks have a lot going on, especially compared to the time solo on the road. There are often a lot of people and vehicles of all sizes moving around. Unsurprisingly, that can make a loading dock a hotspot for workplace accidents. Distracted workers are more likely to have or cause accidents, so drivers have to stay sharp to avoid the chaos around them. Also, pay close attention to the loading dock rules. Since they may be different between shippers, don’t assume you already know what they want. You might not love the rules at some locations, but at the end of the day, griping about them won’t change anything. It just slows things down and it won’t make your day any brighter. 4. Set Yourself Up for SuccessIf you are preparing to load or unload and find yourself in a tight position, don’t hesitate to speak up. Backing up is a critical skill for drivers, and you can’t do your job if there are obstacles in the way. If there isn’t enough room or if there are vehicles or debris in your path, ask for someone to move it. Dock workers might not be thrilled about the request, but it’s a lot less hassle than dealing with damaged property. When you set up to back into a loading dock, do what you need to do to back in safely and accurately. Smart-Trucking.com shares its three most important rules of backing:
Over the years, you will spend time at countless loading docks. Do what you can to make your time there as short and painless as possible by setting yourself up for backing success. 5. Stay Calm & PatientDelays happen. On your route, at the loading dock. They’re unavoidable. But when they happen, try not to get overly frustrated and avoid driver burnout. When everything is taking too long or being poorly handled, calm and patient is probably the last thing you want to be. But it is important. In general, assume the best in people first. But, if there is a bigger problem or they are deliberately moving slowly, take action by reporting the incident. Remember, even with bad shippers, your goal is to get in and out as quickly as possible. So, try not to escalate confrontations. Avoid direct conflict, but make sure to let your company know about your experience. Save yourself and other drivers a bad experience down the road by saying something! But, let your boss deal with the communication. Find a CDL Driving JobWe match you with a job based on your personal preferences and qualifications. The post 5 Tips for Loading Dock Etiquette for Truck Drivers appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct Today’s Job of the Day comes from Eagle TransportationEagle Transportation is hiring CDL A OTR Dry Van Drivers from around the country and CDL A Local Tanker Drivers in Tuscan, AZ. OTR drivers for Eagle Transportation are responsible for delivering freight across the contiguous 48 states. This OTR position keeps drivers load availability and mileage potential open ended. While life over the road can be rewarding, we understand the importance of home time and make our best efforts to get our drivers home for all important events! Local tanker drivers for Eagle Transportation are responsible for delivering fuel in the Tucson, AZ area. We’re dedicated to keeping local drivers home daily! Come join our team – Like Family, Welcome Home! Eagle Transportation is hiring CDL A OTR Dry Van Drivers from around the country and CDL A Local Tanker Drivers in Tuscan, AZ. OTR Dry Van Compensation & Benefits
Local Tanker Compensation & Benefits
Routes & Schedule
OTR Dry Van Equipment
Local Tanker Equipment
OTR Dry Van Requirements
Local Tanker Requirements
Join the Eagle Transportation TeamEagle Transportation is hiring CDL A OTR Dry Van Drivers from around the country and CDL A Local Tanker Drivers in Tuscan, AZ. Start your next job with Eagle Transportation! The post Job of the Day: Eagle Transportation appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct Empty trucks sitting in the yard aren’t a good thing. And idle freight sitting in a warehouse isn’t a good thing either. Each of these problems cost their owner money, without earning them a dime. If you’re a new carrier or an Owner Operator looking to get started in the trucking industry, but you don’t know where to find your first jobs, a load board might be the perfect place to start. Here are 3 tips to make the most of trucking load boards. What’s a Load Board?A popular method for truckers to find freight is by using trucking load boards. Load boards started out literally as physical bulletin boards with printed descriptions of freight needing shipped tacked onto them. Now, these are online tools that electronically connect drivers with loads posted by shippers and brokers.
Now that it’s clear what a load board is, how can a professional driver make the most of trucking load boards? 1. Do Your ResearchGetting started with load boards can be a little bit overwhelming at first. There’s a lot of options and each one might work a little differently or ask for information in a slightly different way. A great tip is talk to your fellow truckers and see what they recommend. Or spend some time online and read the reviews of the programs. With some research, you’ll find the tools that best fit your budget and your needs.
2. Stand OutLike any type of matching program, it’s important to stand out. When using trucking load boards, there’s no difference. You want to put in as much information as possible, to ensure that a broker will understand exactly what you’re able to carry and how much of it. This includes your qualifications and your equipment’s specifications. And certainly, at what pay rates you’re willing to accept to haul their freight.
3. Learn and AdjustAs you learn how to navigate through the various types of trucking load boards, you’ll learn the ins and outs of how they work. You will learn what makes you stand out best to brokers and shippers. And more importantly, you’ll learn what brokers and shippers are good partners for you.
This will ultimately help ensure that you’ve got full loads coming and going while you’re out over the road. Just like trucking load boards match-up truckers and freight, DriveMyWay matches truckers with their next best fit trucking job. Start now and setup an account! It’s easy, it’s free and you never know… the perfect trucking gig for you might be just around the corner. What are you waiting for? Want to find a job you love?Drive My Way matches drivers with jobs based on their qualifications and lifestyle preferences. The post 3 Tips to Make the Most of Trucking Load Boards appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct
The one you’re driving or the one you wish you were driving! This is actually a hot debate about which truck is the very best semi truck, but there are a few names you can’t miss. Vote for your favorite, then see who’s winning in the polls right now!
Which truck is best?
1. FreightlinerEvery list of the best semi-trucks that’s worth its salt has to include Freightliners. They are currently the most popular truck among drivers in the United States. It’s for a few good reasons. Freightliner highway trucks offer day, sleeper, and crew cab options. They’re built to handle all types of loads, and they house a 350-600 horsepower engine. Freightliner trucks are aerodynamically efficient, so they get good fuel efficiency which saves money in the long run. They are also typically less expensive to buy and operate than Peterbilts and Kenworths. So, that’s another plus for the pocketbook. With top features for drivers and a lower price tag, it’s not hard to see why many people choose Freightliners. 2. PeterbiltOpen roads stretching ahead of you, a powerful rig beneath you, and a classic look that you just can’t beat: that is the legacy of a Peterbilt. They are the Harley Davidsons of the trucking world. A long-nose Peterbilt is an iconic trucking look, and for style, it can’t be topped. Peterbilts are made by PACCAR, the same company that owns Kenworth. While many drivers are loyal to what Peterbilt represents, there’s no denying the quality of these trucks. Peterbilt offers the most trucks with alternative fuel options. Their trucks also have aluminum bodies. This makes for a lighter and more fuel-efficient ride, but you may want to look at something else if you’re hauling heavy loads. 3. KenworthLooking for a tractor built by truckers for truckers? Kenworth is your place. Experienced drivers consult on the design for new models, and it shows. These trucks have great navigational technology which makes your day on the road a little smoother and less stressful. Kenworths are made by the same parent company who makes Peterbilts. They tend to be a little bit heavier on materials and build than their Peterbilt counterparts. Kenworths lose out on some fuel efficiency as a result, but it also gives them a sturdy feel that drivers love. 4. VolvoVolvos don’t get quite as much fame in the United States as Freightliners, Peterbilts, and Kenworths, but they are top notch. Even though they aren’t as common in the US, Volvos are recognized internationally as a top brand. In the US, Volvos come in fifth for heavy-duty truck manufacturers, but it holds the second place title worldwide. They come from the same parent company that makes Mack trucks, and drivers can be confident they are getting a quality ride with a great support network when they choose a Volvo. 5. InternationalRounding out our top 5 list of best semi trucks for drivers is International. With models like the Lonestar and the LT series, International shows off some good looks and quality trucks.
That performance makes models like the Lonestar particularly good for special deliveries like cattle, horses, and other livestock. The Bottom LineIn the USA, Freightliners, Peterbilts, and Kenworths have the most loyal followings. With clean designs and a truck body that’s built to last, it’s easy to see why drivers love them. But, Volvo and International score high marks globally and are a great choice for many drivers. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of personal preference, price, and your driving needs. What’s your opinion? Tell us what you love about your truck and why it’s the best. We have a debate to settle! Find a CDL Driving JobWe match you with a job based on your personal preferences and qualifications. The post 5 Best Semi Trucks for Truck Drivers appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct Today’s Job of the Day is from Brady TruckingThe best trucks for Over the Road need the best drivers. Brady Trucking needs YOU. We believe every Driver should enjoy a healthy work-life balance, so we offer you the kind of income, benefits and home time that will take care of you and your family. Come and see what Brady Trucking has to offer CDL Truck Drivers and your families. Brady Trucking, Inc. is seeking Class A CDL Drivers to safely transport dry bulk commodities (no endorsement necessary) tankers and some liquid food grade (tanker endorsement required) primarily through the Midwest, South, and Southeast regions. In this position, you will be:
Why Choose Brady Trucking?
Brady Trucking is hiring CDL A OTR Liquid/Dry Bulk Driver in the South Central and Midwest United States. Compensation & Benefits
Routes & Schedule
Equipment
Qualifications
“Built by truckers, for truckers” means that we’re all about Drivers. Managers and Executives are former Truckers. We’ve been in a truck and understand the Truck Driver’s lifestyle – time away from home, family needs, life on the road. We offer top-of-market pay, beautiful Peterbilt equipment, state-of-the-art technology & tools, recognition for your hard work, and “The Extra Mile!” Our augmented Driver benefits package of extras provide holistic financial, health, and wellness programs to you and your family. Come join the Brady Family today! Join the Brady Trucking Team!Brady Trucking is hiring CDL A OTR Liquid/Dry Bulk Drivers in the South Central and Midwest. Join the team! The post Job of the Day: Brady Trucking appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct Today’s Job of the Day is from Flatbush Freight Express Flatbush Freight Express, LLC is seeking ambitious Class A drivers to run refrigerated loads out of our Wendell, NC terminal. In this position you will be:
Why Choose Flatbush Freight Express?
Flatbush Freight Express is hiring CDL A OTR Refrigerated Driver in Wendell, NC. Compensation & Benefits
Routes & Schedule
Equipment
Qualifications
Join the Flatbush Team!Flatbush Freight Express is hiring CDL A OTR Refrigerated Driver in Wendell, NC. Join their team! The post Job of the Day: Flatbush Freight Express appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct Today’s job of the day is from NFI Industries!NFI Industries is one of the largest dedicated transportation companies in North America. Family owned and operated for over 85 years, NFI is an award-winning industry leader known for our commitment to safety and exceptional customer service. Our dedicated transportation model means you will haul for one customer, running round trip from their distribution center or load origin to their customers, then back to that same origin. We offer a variety of career choices with consistent weekly pay as well as predictable routes and schedules so you can balance your driving with quality home time. 95% of our drivers are home every day or every other day. Come join our team today NFI Industries is currently hiring CDL A Dedicated Dry Van and Refrigerated Company Drivers and Owner Operators in multiple locations:
--Why work for NFI?
Interested in applying?NFI Industries is hiring CDL A Dedicated drivers in multiple locations. Learn more about their job requirements, benefits, pay, home time, and more! The post Job of the Day: NFI Industries appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/39Jh0Ct |
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