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5 Ways Truck Drivers Can Avoid Heart Disease

Spreading Heart-Health Awareness This American Heart Month

Question: What’s the leading cause of death in the United States of America and claims more than 650,000 lives each year? The answer: heart disease. 

Luckily, research and new technology have given medical professionals the tools to know more about the condition, prevent it, and treat it quicker than ever before. Despite the extraordinary progress that’s been made, there’s still more that can be done.

This American Heart Month, we celebrate by sharing information regarding the prevention of heart disease to eradicate the illness further. In this article, we will go over heart disease and discuss the top five ways truck drivers can avoid it.

What are the different types of heart disease?

Heart disease is a general term referring to any condition that affects one’s cardiovascular system. Overall, the disease comes in several variations, and they all can have severe impacts on the body.

Different types of heart disease include:

  • Coronary Artery Disease: Coronary artery disease (also known as coronary heart disease) develops when the blood supply to the heart becomes clogged. It is known as the most common type of heart disease. 
  • Congenital Heart Defects: Those with a congenital heart defect are born with it. There are three main types of defects, including atypical heart valves, septal defects, and atresia.
  • Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that occurs when the electrical impulses controlling one’s heartbeat make it beat incorrectly. The variations of arrhythmias include tachycardia, bradycardia, premature contractions, and atrial fibrillation.
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A dilated cardiomyopathy is when the heart chambers become enlarged, and it is often caused by arrhythmias, genetics, past heart attacks, and toxins.   
  • Myocardial Infarction: A myocardial infarction (also known as a heart attack) is caused by an interruption of blood flow to the heart, which in turn causes damage to the muscle.
  • Heart Failure: Heart failure is the slow deterioration of one’s heart due to untreated arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and other health conditions.
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This condition affects the heart muscle by thickening the walls of the heart and making regular contractions more difficult, thus affecting the heart’s ability to circulate blood to the body. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy commonly develops from inherited genetic issues and conditions. 
  • Mitral Valve Regurgitation: Mitral valve regurgitation happens when the heart’s mitral valve does not close properly, and blood flows back into the heart.
  • Mitral Valve Prolapse: A mitral valve prolapse is caused by the heart’s valve flaps not closing correctly and pushing into the left atrium.
  • Aortic Stenosis: An aortic stenosis happens when the pulmonary valve becomes thick or fuses, preventing it from opening correctly making it harder for the heart to pump blood.

5 Ways Truck Drivers Can Avoid Heart Disease

It’s no secret that most truck drivers are forced into a lifestyle that puts them at a greater risk for health conditions, including heart disease. The main factors contributing to this high risk for heart disease are poor sleep, smoking, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and high-stress levels.  

Luckily, truck drivers can significantly reduce their risk and live long and prosperous lives by implementing a few healthy habits.

1. Get your rest.

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to your well-being, especially your heart health. Unfortunately, a full eight hours is not always possible for America’s truck drivers. However, science has proven that adults who regularly get less than seven hours of sleep per night are at a greater risk for conditions such as heart attack, heart disease, and stroke.

To help truck drivers get the best sleep possible, we recommend:

  1. Parking your rig in a safe and quiet area
  2. Blocking out as much light as possible with curtains or shades
  3. Use an eye mask and earplugs to help block out irritants

2. Quit smoking.

For years, we’ve seen numerous warnings about smoking and the damaging effects it can have on one’s health. A recent study showed that 51% of truck drivers smoke cigarettes, thus increasing their risk for heart disease by four times. Smoking cigarettes also increases the chances of dying from heart disease by three times. Fortunately, there are many ways to help break this unhealthy habit, including nicotine replacement therapy and smoking cessation hypnosis, and all can be done while on the road.

3. Follow a healthy diet.

Working as a truck driver means long hours on the road with few opportunities for a healthy meal. You can make subtle changes to your diet by stocking your rig with healthy snack options.

These options include:

  • Fruit
  • Granola bars
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Hummus with veggies or crackers
  • Nuts

When you stop at a fast-food restaurant for a full meal, opt for one of the healthier options, including salads, protein wraps, or sandwiches.

4. Get regular exercise.

A lack of exercise can increase your risk of severe health conditions, including diabetes, weight gain, certain cancers, and heart disease. To avoid these health concerns, try to exercise several times a day for three to 10 minutes. This can be done before you start your day, during your breaks, or after you’ve finished your day. It’s essential not to overexert yourself and to start slow. In the beginning, stretch, squat, and walk your way to health for at least 12 minutes a day.

5. Manage your stress levels.

As many can imagine, stress and anxiety can put a strain on your mind, body, and soul. Those who experience frequent high levels of stress are more likely to experience heart disease.

To reduce stress, try these techniques:

  • Breathing exercises
  • Meditation
  • Visualization
  • Stretching

For more information on American Heart Month and heart disease, visit heart.org!

10 Best Supply Chain Jobs in America

For businesses to be successful, they must optimize their processes and reach as many customers as possible in the most cost-effective ways. Without the supply chain, this goal for prosperity would be unachievable. The world’s supply chain works around the clock to ensure the distribution of products, resources, goods, and information to consumers around the globe. To maintain this constant flow of movement, the supply chain must rely on three major components, including logistics, operations, and budget.

As the world continues moving towards the new normal, hardworking professionals are looking for essential careers that are high-paying and offer long-term viability and opportunities for advancement—and there’s no better place to look than the supply chain.

In this article, we will list the top 10 jobs in the supply chain industry and go over what it takes to land these lucrative careers.

How do I qualify for a job in the supply chain?

Jobs within the supply chain are high-paying and relatively easy to obtain with the proper skillset and experience. Top positions, like supervisory and management roles, require a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience within the area you are applying for.

The best degrees for the job include:

  • Business Administration
  • Finance
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Transportation and Logistics

However, some positions only require a high school diploma and industry experience. Starting at entry-level roles, like Production Associate or Inventory Clerk, will allow you to gain the necessary knowledge and progress within your chosen field.

What are the top 10 supply chain jobs in America?

1) Inventory Manager

Average salary: $60,535 per year

Inventory managers primarily track and monitor the facility’s inventory. But they are also responsible for:

  • Creating and implementing organizational systems
  • Noting any supply overages or shortages
  • Creating documentation processes that follow industry standards

2) Transportation Manager

Average salary: $63,508 per year

The job of a transportation manager is to plan and lead all transportation operations. Opportunities for this position can typically be found at companies like Amazon, Ryder, or even smaller logistics and trucking companies. 

Other job opportunities include:

  • Department of Transportation
  • Farming and Agriculture
  • Grocery and Food Services
  • Health and Wellness
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Travel

3) Facilities Manager

Average salary: $64,084 per year

Facilities managers oversee the maintenance of a company’s equipment, systems, and other physical components within the production and manufacturing departments. This position could grant multiple opportunities since many facilities managers work with more than one location. 

4) Logistician

Average salary: $65,750 per year

Logisticians work under a multitude of titles, including:

  • Logistics Director
  • Operations Manager
  • Production Manager or Production Planner
  • Program Manager
  • Supply Management Specialist

In this position, you will collect and analyze data to coordinate and develop logistics for a company. In some cases, a logistician may oversee the “lifecycle” of a single product.

5) Purchasing Manager

Average salary: $70,396 per year

Purchasing managers (or procurement managers) supervise an organization’s purchasing habits for their materials, products, and services. They work to develop relationships with suppliers and handle negotiations to ensure the best prices for their clients.

Purchasing manager opportunities can be found in industries such as:

  • Construction
  • Food and beverage
  • Government 
  • Health care
  • Hospitality
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail

6) Supply Chain Analyst

Average salary: $71,307 per year

Supply chain analysts work closely with various organizations within the supply chain.

Their primary duties include:

  1. Observing supply chain processes
  2. Locating inefficiencies or potential problems within the supply chain
  3. Improving company operations

7) Logistics Analysts

Average salary: $77,992 per year

Logistics analysts study warehouse data, product delivery, and supply chain operations, then use said data to make recommendations and improvements for logistic processes. This position is typically found in larger companies, specifically those that manufacture consumer goods.

However, you may also find opportunities at logistic companies, membership-based retailers, and other customer-based industries such as:

  • Automotive
  • Electronics
  • Food and beverage
  • Hospitality
  • Manufacturing
  • Package delivery
  • Technology
  • Travel

8) Supply Chain Manager

Average salary: $80,566 per year

Supply chain managers work with external suppliers to negotiate and purchase resources and raw materials. They also analyze processes and company data to identify inefficiencies and improve overall quality throughout the supply chain.

This position is also related to and sometimes paired with titles like: 

  • Logistics manager
  • Operations manager
  • Project manager
  • Purchasing manager

9) Global Commodity Manager

Average salary: $85,898 per year

The job of a global commodity manager is to create and implement strategies that help an organization achieve and maintain efficient and cost-effective operations. These professionals also study market trends and develop forecasts for inventory fluctuations while maintaining relationships with suppliers and monitoring product quality.

10) Sourcing Manager

Average salary: $94,706 per year

Sourcing managers have several jobs, including:

  • Assembling company data
  • Studying and analyzing sourcing processes
  • Researching suppliers and products
  • Balancing cost and quality metrics and finding the best options for clients
  • Tracking and organizing a company’s budget

More Like This:

-> 6 Tips for Starting Your Own Trucking Business

-> Top 10 Truck Driving Jobs

->6 Tips for Financing a Food Truck During a Pandemic

Top 10 States With the Best Roads and Highways

Throughout our country’s history, transportation has fueled our development and economic growth and gotten us to where we are today. Every day, all across America, truck drivers travel across our country’s roads, highways, and bridges to deliver goods and keep our nation running. Through modern technology, transportation experts can track the movement of products and determine metrics regarding driver’s commute times and road and bridge quality. Once this data is measured, combined with ratings from drivers and government funding info, experts can determine which states have some of the best roads and highways in the country.

-> How to Keep Your Truck on the Road

For truck drivers, the quality of infrastructure is crucial. It plays an essential role in the longevity of the rig and the driver’s safety, and damaged or unkempt roadways can lead to damaged products, accidents, unnecessary vehicle repairs, and more. States with little funding for infrastructure unfortunately suffer the most. However, in some states, drivers don’t have to worry so much about the pavement they drive on.

Which states have the best roads and highways?

The top 10 states with the best roads and highways include:

#1. Kansas

Thanks to its recent funding increase and overall improvements, the great state of Kansas lands at the top of our list. Those fortunate enough to drive through the state agree that the streets are safe, clean, and perfectly resurfaced.

#2. Alabama

When the Rebuild Alabama Act was passed in 2019, the state worked to better its roads and highways. The roadways were widened and repaved after years of wear. Now, travelers have noticed improved traffic. And with less traffic comes more Southern hospitality.

#3. North Dakota

In North Dakota, the interstates are perfectly paved, the urban roads are cared for, and only 2% of the rural roads are considered to be in need of a facelift. For these reasons, plus their absolute cleanliness, it sits at the number three spot on our list!

#4. Kentucky

Approximately 86% of Kentucky’s roadway budget goes towards road maintenance, meaning the highways are almost always in good condition. And like North Dakota, the state’s urban roads are well kept, and only 2% of the rural roads could be considered poor. Besides that, drivers will experience clean roads and sound traffic systems that promptly help them get to where they’re going.

#5. Florida

Coming in at number five is the sunshine state, Florida. The state’s overall infrastructure rating is one of the country’s best, with 71% of the urban roads and 88% of the rural roads in top-notch shape. The state has also implemented several new lanes, roundabouts, turning lanes, and four-way stops to assist traffic flow and safety. Plus, you never have to worry about driving in the snow. 

Image Credit: Consumer Affairs

#6. Idaho

Across Idaho, the clean and orderly roads are well used by travelers and residents, but they are equally well maintained. Drivers commend the state’s easy-to-understand north-south, east-west directions and the lack of potholes.

#7. New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s roads and highways are in good condition, with 4% of rural roads and 10% of urban roads in the category of ‘needs improvement.’ Those who frequent the state’s roadways describe them as well-maintained and easily navigable with good signage. 

#8. Georgia

Georgia’s various roads and highways are described as smooth, wide, and clean. Thanks to the current SPLOST tax credit, the state continues to make repairs and expand its roadways, only further improving traffic flow.

#9. Nevada

When it comes to quality infrastructure, Nevada isn’t doing too bad. Approximately 8% of the urban roads need improvement, but 100% of the rural roads surveyed are in good condition. Older streets are constantly refreshed and kept smooth as the state continues to expand.

#10. Vermont

At our 10th spot is the scenic state of Vermont. While there are definite areas in need of improvement, the state’s roadways are safe and in good condition. However, many drivers agree that the state could upgrade its traffic standards.

How to get started as an owner operator

So, when it comes to choosing where you want to drive (assuming you have the choice), we recommend you start with one of these 10 states. You and your semi-truck will thank you. If you’re just getting started in the industry, check out one of our helpful resources below!

→ Buying vs. Leasing a Semi-Truck: An Owner Operator’s Guide

→ 6 Tips for Starting Your Own Trucking Business

→Top 10 Truck Driving Jobs

6 Tips for Driving a Semi-Truck in Winter

It’s no secret that icy and snow-covered roads can have severe and often unpredictable impacts on traffic conditions. When these winter months roll in, heavy-duty drivers face dangerous and demanding routes, especially when they’re not prepared. Along with winterizing your truck, refreshing your wintery driving skills is crucial for surviving the frozen season. 

When drivers are faced with a winter storm, icy roads, or other frosty conditions, it’s always better to play it safe. Things like taking your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a thorough check-up or building an emergency kit can genuinely be a lifesaver. However, there are other ways to stay safe while driving your semi this winter. 

In this article, we’ll go over our top 6 tips and tricks for driving a semi-truck safely in the winter.

1. Drive cautiously

When driving on ice- or snow-covered roads, it’s essential to take your time and drive cautiously. If you’re out of practice when it comes to driving in the winter, move slowly and pay attention to the capabilities of your vehicle. For instance, if your semi rides low, it won’t handle snow accumulation well, so it’s best to take it slow to prevent build-up. It’s vital to execute control and deliberate actions when navigating wintery road conditions. Sharp curves, rushed acceleration, and fast braking all result in decreased traction, leading to an accident. Stay alert and maintain a consistent speed while leaving enough distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. The safe amount of space will also help you when you need to use your brake. 

2. Stock up on essentials

With inclement weather being so unpredictable, you must always have the essentials with you. This way, if you get stranded in the middle of these harsh climatic conditions, you will be prepared and safe.

Your emergency kit should include:

  • Tire chains
  • Spare fuel
  • An extra fuel filter and wrench
  • Coolant, washer fluid, and oil
  • Vinegar
  • A flare gun
  • Flares
  • A flashlight and extra batteries
  • A CB radio (if one is not already in your cab)
  • A first aid kit
  • Blankets
  • Hats, scarves, and gloves
  • Snow boots
  • Snow shovel
  • Canned food and bottled water

We also recommend a few bags of cat litter. This unique emergency item can be used as a safe and eco-friendly way to regain traction if your tires get stuck on a patch of ice. Simply throw some litter under your tires, slowly engage your accelerator, and wait for your tires to do the rest.

3. Use your signals

This may seem like a no-brainer, but using your signals can be the difference between a safe ride and a preventable accident. The general rule of thumb is three blinks before changing lanes, but when the weather outside is frightful, stay safe and use five blinks before moving over. It would help if you also used your signals before turning. To give those driving behind you plenty of notice, be sure to activate your signal before you begin slowing down for your turn.

If the weather is too extreme for your comfort level, use your four-way hazard signals and move to the passing lane to allow those around you to pass. Hopefully, doing so will encourage other drivers to exercise caution and prevent a pileup from happening.

4. Let your truck warm up

When the temperatures drop below freezing, it can be hard on your semi’s heavy-duty diesel engine. So, it’s essential to allow your truck time to warm up before taking off on your route. This will prevent your engine from refusing to turn over and promote longevity past the winter months. 

Pro Tip: While your rig warms up, turn on your defroster and let your windshield unfreeze itself. Two birds, one stone. 

5. Be cognizant

As well as driving cautiously, you as a driver should be extra cognizant of those around you while driving through frosty weather. For example, water coming off another vehicle’s tires could indicate just how treacherous the roadways are. If there is a lot of water, the roads are wet, but the streets are freezing over if there is less spray. You should also pay close attention to the streets for black ice.

6. Check your tires, fuel, and lights

Perhaps the most crucial tip happens before you hit the road: check your tires, fuel, and lights. Regardless of the season, truck drivers should be inspecting their tires regularly. However, as the weather grows colder, your tires will need to be examined even more than usual. If your tires are underinflated, damaged, or worn out, it could lead to troubles on the road, such as low traction.

Checking your fuel is another crucial step to staying safe. By keeping your fuel tank filled, you will give extra weight to your rig, which will ultimately help your tires retain traction and stay on the road.

Once you stop for the day, be sure to check and clean your headlights, taillights, and license plate since they will more than likely be covered in a mixture of dirt and snow. For semi-trucks, your lights need to be as visible as possible, meaning your lights need to be clean and functioning correctly.

Want more information like this? Check out these articles:

→ Tips for Preparing Your Semi-Truck for Summer

→ How to Stay Safe in Harsh Winter Conditions

→ 7 Crucial Tips for Truck Tire Maintenance and Repair

Older Drivers: How to Stay Safe Behind the Wheel

It’s officially the first week of December, which means it’s Older Driver Safety Awareness Week! This national celebration was initiated in 2009 by the American Occupational Therapy Association to start a conversation around older driver safety. According to the CDC, there are currently 45 million motorists over the age of 65. In one year alone, approximately 250,000 of those older drivers were involved in vehicular accidents that resulted in severe injuries, and another 7,700 tragically died in traffic accidents. 

This week of awareness sheds light on those driving for personal reasons as well as our nation’s truck drivers. When long hours on the road are combined with harsh winter weather or age-related medical conditions, heavy-duty hauling can be dangerous to you and those around you. For these reasons, it is vital to recognize when the risks of driving outweigh the benefits and to learn different ways to stay safe in the meantime.

6 Safety Tips for Older Drivers

Older drivers are not only twice as likely to suffer from medical conditions that impair their driving skills, but they are also at a higher risk of getting injured or even dying in a car accident. However, these numbers don’t mean that those 65 and older have to fear getting behind the wheel; they just need to drive more cautiously, practice good judgment, and follow the CDC’s tips for older driver safety.

These CDC safety tips include: 

1. Obey all traffic laws. 

Follow speed limits and traffic signs, wear your seatbelt, and never drive under the influence. This is important for drivers of ALL ages.

2. Only drive under favorable conditions. 

If feasible, only operate your vehicle during the daytime and when the weather is decent. 

3. Keep an open line of communication with your doctor. 

Discuss any medical concerns or issues with your healthcare provider and determine if they could have an adverse effect on your driving. In terms of medication, determine if any potential side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, could interfere with your driving.

4. Have your vision and hearing checked at least once a year.

If either is impaired, be sure to obtain the proper prescription for your eyewear or hearing aids. It is imperative that you wear your glasses at all times when operating your semi truck.

5. Plan your route in detail. 

Before hitting the road, make sure you know exactly where you are going, what alternative routes there are, and where rest stops are along the way. It is always a good idea to have an up-to-date map with you as well. 

6. Adapt your truck to fit your needs. 

If allowed and/or feasible, add installable features or adaptive devices to your vehicle to help with proper vehicle maintenance.

By following these tips and regularly assessing your driving habits for any concerning shifts, you can continue driving safely and avoid at-fault accidents. However, if you notice any changes in your reflexes, vision, hearing, or physical or mental well-being, it’s essential that you stop driving and talk with your doctor. 

Click here to learn more about medical conditions that may affect your driving.

Observe Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

This week celebrates the role that transportation plays for older drivers and their communities. To celebrate Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, reach out to your favorite, experienced driver and start a dialogue about their safety and others. Drivers can observe this week by following the top six safety tips as recommended by the CDC.


Pro tip: Use the hashtag #OlderDriverSafetyAwarenessWeek when posting on social media this week!

6 Tips for Starting Your Own Trucking Business

Have you ever thought about starting your own business? How about starting your own trucking business? If you answered yes, you are in luck because there’s never been a better time to get started.

As the popularity of online shopping rises and the world’s shipping demands rapidly increase, owners and operators alike can anticipate more opportunities on their horizons. To meet the growing demands of consumers, the American Trucking Association (ATA) estimates that the trucking industry would need at least 900,000 new drivers on the road. These factors, plus the current driver shortage, strong freight market, and increased transportation rates, equal an abundance of opportunities for those wanting to start their own trucking business.

So, how exactly do you get started?

6 Tips For Starting Your Own Trucking Business

While running your own fleet operation can come with a number of enticing benefits, it can be challenging to get everything started if you don’t have the proper tools for success. 

Below, we’ll break down the steps you need to take and discuss how to create a solid trucking business.

1. Plan and prepare.

Not surprisingly, starting a business takes a significant amount of planning and preparation, regardless of having zero industry experience or years under your belt.

Some things to think about and plan for include: 

1) The name of your trucking business

Choosing a proper name for your business is crucial. Once you’ve decided on a name and checked to ensure another company is not using it, be sure to acquire a DBA if you chose a “fictitious name” or an LLC if you are operating under your name and/or professional alias. 

2) What’s your target market

Establishing your trucking business as a “niche carrier” (e.g., local hauler vs. refrigerated hauler) is vital if you want to avoid competition, optimize your opportunities, and streamline the costs and resources you’ll have to prepare for.

If you’re stuck deciding on your company’s niche, ask yourself:

  • Which industries, companies, and/or products do I find interest in? Is it in my target location? What’s my competition, if any?
  • What does this niche require in terms of product and logistics? Am I capable of meeting these requirements?
  • Who would my customers be? How will they benefit from me versus another company? How would I benefit from them?

3) Identify your rates

Deciding on your company’s rate can be a challenge. Your rate should generate profit, cover any costs, and compete with any neighboring competition.

To calculate your rate, follow these steps:

  • Choose your desired area and freight lane
  • Go to the local load site and find 10 loads going in the same direction
  • Contact the brokers of the 10 loads and inquire about how much they are paying
  • Calculate the average amount and add 10-15% to determine the price shippers are billed
  • Now, repeat these steps for shippers going in the opposite direction

2. Obtain the proper paperwork.

As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to obtain the proper permits and legal documentation needed to operate. This paperwork will vary based on the type of niche your company is.

Potential permits and licenses include:

  • US DoT and Motor Carrier (MC) Authority Numbers
  • Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
  • International Registration Plan (IRP) License Plate
  • Heavy Highway Use Tax Return (Form 2290)
  • International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Permit
  • BOC-3 Form
  • Weight/Distance Travel Permits
  • Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC)
  • Electronic Logging Devices

3. Create a business plan.

For any business, a detailed business plan is an essential tool for success. A comprehensive business plan should detail sales and marketing strategies, operational activities, a pricing breakdown, your fleet management plan, company goals, a resource breakdown, and any other business processes that will help keep you organized as your business grows. 

A complete business plan may also include:

  • The company description
  • A market analysis and service business analysis
  • The company’s sales strategy and financial projections
  • A personnel plan with management and organization details
  • An executive summary
  • Any key activities, partnerships, & resources
  • Your customer segments
  • Any value propositions
  • Your company’s cost structure

4. Purchase company assets and insure them.

If you have substantial funding, now is the time to purchase your company assets, including your commercial vehicles. And while there is nothing wrong with getting the best deal, don’t neglect the quality of your purchases. When getting started, paying a higher price for a brand-new truck may not sound appealing; however, this will save you money down the road with less required maintenance and fewer repairs.

If you choose to buy a used heavy-duty truck, you should investigate the vehicle’s maintenance history and look for/at:

  • Signs of damage
  • Rust or deterioration
  • Proper tire tread
  • Mileage and other gauge readouts

Once you have purchased your assets, be sure to insure them immediately. By obtaining insurance, you protect yourself and your company against financial burdens and risks, including vehicle damages and employee injuries.

5. Hire your employees.

Who you bring onboard is arguably one of the most important components to growing your business. There are a few ways to handle the hiring process. Still, it’s recommended to go through certified screening procedures to determine if a potential employee holds any violations, crash reports, or unfavorable record hits.

Certified screening procedures include:

  • Running the applicant’s CSA profile and a thorough background check
  • Conducting a detailed in-person interview
  • Completing on-the-job tests and evaluations

6. Now, grow your business.

Now that most of the nitty-gritty details are taken care of, it’s time to grow your business! For optimal profitability, diversify your business and never allow a single client to account for over 20% of your revenue, meaning you should have at least five consistent clients. If you need more clients, you can use online tools, including freight boards, a company website, industry networks, and/or social media. With your company’s website and social media accounts, be sure to keep things professional, up-to-date, and consistent with relevant content like services, hours of operation, and company details. If you post any photos and/or videos, only use high-quality content and take the opportunity to interact with your followers any chance you get.

Other tools trucking companies use for growth and success include: 

  • Fleet management software
  • An ELD solution
  • Real-time GPS tracking, geofencing, and facility insight reports
  • AI-powered dashcams

These tools can optimize your company’s time, cut down excess expenses, help improve your driver’s productivity and safety, simplify insurance claims, and protect your business. Plus, they keep downtime to a minimum and keep clients happy, encouraging them to spread the word about your company.

Get started with Mission Financial.

When starting your own trucking business, it’s essential to obtain proper coverage. At Mission Financial, we not only offer direct lending, but we also offer dealership lending. Our specialized loans cover first-time owners/operators, drivers with limited experience, and owners/operators with bad credit, bankruptcies, child support, or tax liens, plus small fleet loans. 

To obtain a loan from Mission Financial, you will need to complete and submit three online forms, including a credit application, vehicle spec sheet, and sales order.

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