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apportioned plates

Understanding Apportioned License Plates

apportioned plates

If you’re a commercial truck driver who regularly crosses state borders, then you might need to get apportioned license plates. It’s also important that you understand IFTA and IRP registration.

This might sound like a lot of admin, but it can make your life a lot easier with managing your vehicle and tax reports. Registration is also a straightforward process. Plus, if your vehicle qualifies for these registrations, it is a legal requirement.

Still confused about what this all means and how it might affect you? We’ll answer everything you need to know about apportioned registration in the guide below.

Apportioned Registration and IRP Registration

Apportioned registration and IRP (International Registration Plan) registration cover what are called “apportioned plates.” Apportioned really just means divided or distributed – which applies to the area where the vehicle is registered.

When you see a semi-truck driver using apportioned plates, it means the owner has registered the truck to operate in multiple jurisdictions, making interstate or international travel a lot easier.

Apportioned plates allow commercial vehicles, like trucks and buses, to travel between different states. These plates distribute the registration fees among whatever jurisdictions the vehicle operates, based on the percentage of miles traveled in each area.

This system simplifies registration for vehicles that often cross state lines.

What is the Difference Between IFTA and IRP?

The main difference between IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) and IRP (International Registration Plan) is what they cover. In the most simple terms, IFTA deals with fuel taxes, and IRP deals with registration for vehicles traveling across different jurisdictions.

IFTA is an agreement between the lower 48 U.S. states and 10 Canadian provinces, used to report and distribute fuel taxes paid by interstate motor carriers.

IRP is an agreement between U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Canadian provinces. It allows commercial vehicles to register in their base jurisdiction and travel across state or provincial lines.

Commercial vehicles that frequently cross these borders will have both registration credentials to make travel a lot easier.

fuel

What is the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)?

The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) is an agreement between the lower 48 U.S. states and 10 Canadian provinces. It simplifies the reporting and distribution of fuel taxes paid by interstate motor carriers.

Under IFTA, carriers file quarterly fuel tax reports. These reports indicate the amount of fuel purchased and the number of miles traveled in each jurisdiction. Based on this, tax authorities can distribute taxes to the right jurisdictions.

This agreement makes it a lot easier to comply with fuel tax obligations. It also streamlines the tax reporting process for any motor carriers operating in two or more jurisdictions.

Who Must Register Under IRP and IFTA?

Not all trucks that cross state lines need to register under the IRP and IFTA. So, before taking the steps to get an apportioned license plate, make sure that your vehicle first qualifies for the registration reciprocity agreement.

Under the IRP, any commercial vehicle that crosses state lines and has a gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds, or has three or more axles, must register.

The IFTA requires registration for any motor carrier that operates qualifying vehicles in more than one jurisdiction.

If your vehicle falls under these categories, you must register under IRP and IFTA to operate legally across different states or provinces.

What’s the Difference Between Apportioned Plates and Commercial Plates?

The main difference between apportioned plates and commercial plates is where the vehicle can operate.

Apportioned plates are for vehicles, typically trucks or buses, that travel across state lines. Commercial plates are for vehicles that operate only within a single state. They do not have the design for interstate travel.

In simple terms, apportioned plates allow vehicles to operate across different states or provinces legally, while commercial plates are for vehicles that operate solely within one state.

If you’re a motor carrier, you need to have commercial plates, but you don’t necessarily need apportioned registration. Apportioned registration is also always commercial.

application

How Do I Get Apportioned Plates?

Follow these steps if you think your vehicle needs to apply for an apportioned license plate.

Confirm Your Eligibility

Before starting the registration process, ensure your vehicle qualifies for apportioned plates.

Vehicles that travel across state lines and meet certain weight or axle requirements are eligible.Typically, you can confirm this through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Register with IRP

If your vehicle needs apportioned plates, the first step in getting them is registering your vehicle with the IRP.  You can do this through your state’s DMV.

Fill out the apportioned plate application form provided by your state’s DMV. You’ll need to provide detailed information about your vehicle, including its weight, type, and other relevant details.

This information helps determine the proper allocation of registration fees among the states where your vehicle operates.

Submit Supporting Documents

Along with the application forms, you’ll also need to submit a few documents. This includes your proof of insurance, vehicle registration documents, and other required paperwork.

Double-check the specific requirements of your state or province, as the exact documents needed can differ.

Pay Your Fees

Once you’ve got all the documentation in place, you’ll need to pay the required registration fees.

The amount you need to pay will vary depending on your vehicle’s weight, type, and the states in which you will be operating. Be prepared to cover the costs associated with the apportioned plates.

Wait for Approval

After submitting your application and documents, you’ll need to wait for approval.

The approval process can take some time, so it’s essential to submit everything correctly and be patient.

Once your application is approved, and all fees are paid, you’ll receive your apportioned plates. Make sure you install the plates properly on your vehicle according to the regulations of your state or province.

Final Thoughts

A big part of operating any kind of trucking business is making sure that your vehicle complies with all regulations in any state it travels. Getting apportioned registration is actually a really easy way to stay on top of this.

Properly registering your vehicle ensures that you are operating legally across borders and makes any kind of reporting you need to do a lot more streamlined.

Are you considering purchasing a new commercial vehicle? Then you’ll need to get the right financing partner on board. At Mission Financial Services, we make this process easy by helping all truck drivers get financing for their perfect vehicle. Access your simple credit application today.

ice road trucking

A Guide To Ice Road Driving For Semi Trucks

ice road trucking

Ice road driving is one of the most specialized areas of trucking. It’s dangerous and requires plenty of knowledge and experience driving in harsh conditions.

If you’ve ever been ice fishing, then you understand just how different it is to drive over frozen bodies of water. Even a small lake can pose a major challenge for a heavily loaded truck.

While ice driving is scary, ice road truckers can also be some of the highest-paid semi-truck drivers. Let’s explore exactly what ice road trucking is and how semi-truck drivers can safely navigate ice roads.

What is Ice Road Driving for Semi Trucks?

Ice road driving is when semi trucks drive on frozen bodies of water, like frozen lakes or rivers, that have turned into solid ice during the winter. These frozen roads are like temporary highways, connecting isolated communities in cold regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

While driving over black ice is challenging enough, true ice road truckers take this even further by covering long distances over entire frozen bodies of water.

Importance of Ice Roads in Certain Regions

Ice roads are crucial in certain regions because they provide the only means for transporting goods and supplies to isolated communities during the winter months.

These frozen highways, built on thick ice over lakes and rivers, connect remote areas that are otherwise cut off from the rest of the world.

measuring ice

Ice Thickness Requirements

The most important requirement for ice driving is having the right ice thickness for semi trucks.

The minimum ice thickness required to support heavy vehicles is typically around 30 inches. This is for a 70-ton vehicle. You only need 3 inches of ice to support a single person, and a very light truck could navigate 8-inch ice. Of course, thicker ice is best if you’re driving a large or medium truck.

However, this can vary based on factors like air temperature, pressure, and other variables that influence the strength of the ice. Colder temperatures and higher pressures make the ice stronger.

To determine how thick the ice is, you’ll need to use methods like drilling, using an ice auger, or even using ice radar and sonar.

The Dangers of Ice Road Driving

Driving over lake ice in a semi-truck, or even a small truck, comes with plenty of dangers. Here’s what you need to be aware of.

Slippery Surfaces

Driving on ice is a challenge due to the slippery surface. Even with studded tires and chains, traction is limited.

Trucks can easily lose control, so drivers need to be extra cautious, maintaining slow and steady speeds to reduce the risk of skidding or sliding.

Limited Visibility

Snow and ice can severely reduce visibility on ice roads. Blowing snow, fog, and blizzards makes it hard for drivers to see the road ahead.

Unpredictable Conditions

Weather and road conditions on ice roads can change suddenly and without warning. Sudden blizzards, strong winds, and shifting ice can make driving extremely dangerous.

This is why it’s vital to constantly monitor weather forecasts and road reports, and consult local authorities on the weather to avoid getting caught in dangerous situations.

Increased Braking Distance

Braking on ice roads is much more difficult due to decreased friction. Ice increases the braking distance significantly, making it harder for trucks to stop quickly.

driver isolation

Driver Isolation – Slow Speeds, Long Trips

Ice road driving is all about slow speeds and long trips, which leads to driver isolation. The remote locations and the long, monotonous stretches of road can be mentally challenging.

Drivers must be prepared for the isolation, ensuring they have enough supplies, including food, water, and emergency equipment, to stay safe during the journey.

Why Ice Roads are Necessary

Ice road trucking might seem crazy, but it’s an important job in many isolated regions. Here’s why.

Remote Access to Far Off Places

Ice roads provide vital transportation links to isolated communities.

In remote regions, where regular roads are impractical or impossible to build, ice roads offer a lifeline. They ensure that isolated communities have access to necessary resources during the winter months.

Economic Benefits

Ice roads allow for resources to be moved and economic development to continue throughout winter in remote regions.

Environmental Considerations

Compared to alternative transport routes, ice road driving has a much smaller environmental impact.

Constructing permanent roads can be seriously environmentally damaging. Ice roads, however, are temporary. They require no land clearing or construction.

Safety Precautions for Ice Road Driving

Moving water, cracks, and melting ice are some of the biggest safety concerns for ice road truck driving. Here are some essential tactics to help you stay safe.

Check the Ice Thickness

Before driving on an ice road, always check the ice conditions and thickness. Ensure it meets safety standards and is thick enough to support the weight of your vehicle.

Reduce Your Speed

Maintain slow and steady speeds to reduce the risk of skidding on ice or sliding through snow cover.

Even with studded tires and chains, traction is limited. Applying defensive driving techniques is always good practice.

tire chains

Know the Route

Familiarize yourself with the ice road route before starting your journey. Be aware of any potential hazards, such as areas with thin ice, and carefully plan your journey.

Safety Equipment

Make sure your truck is equipped with all the right gear. This includes things like strong fog lights, reflective markers, tire chains, and suitable ice-driving tires. You’ll also need an ice pick or ice chisel, an auger, and a tape measure to check ice thickness.

Equip your truck with safety essentials like emergency flares, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a life jacket, and a survival kit in case of an emergency. Of course, a proper semi-truck tool kit is also a necessity.

Regular Maintenance

Keep your vehicle well-maintained, including checking tire pressure, ensuring all lights are working, and the brakes are in good condition.

Final Thoughts

Even on thick ice, navigating these routes with the weight of a semi-truck is an enormous challenge. This is why it’s crucial for ice road drivers to be properly prepared and experienced in navigating icy routes.

Of course, ice road driving can only be done with the right, reliable vehicle. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services if you’re looking for the best solution for financing a new semi-truck.

Semi-Truck Driver Tool Kit Essentials 

Having semi-truck driver tool kit essentials as a trucker is crucial. If your vehicle breaks down, the right tools can help you handle minor repairs quickly, minimizing downtime so you can keep moving. 

Without a curated truck driver toolkit, you risk interrupting your trip schedule for too long, ultimately reducing your income because repair shop mechanics can take hours to arrive for simple 10-minute light repairs. 

Here’s the thing, though – there are so many tools for truck drivers. What are the most essential tools you should carry? Read on to learn more and assemble the ultimate trucker tool kit to match your needs.

What to consider when purchasing driver tools

To purchase truck driver tools that work well and offer great value for money, keep the following factors in mind: 

Quality and Brand 

Brands differ in terms of the quality of products they offer. You want to find high-quality tools that don’t need replacement often. The best way to identify such tools is by reading product and brand reviews.

You could also ask other truck drivers to recommend their best products. For this, pose your questions on different trucker groups online to get solid recommendations from truck drivers who’ve used the products they’ll recommend. You’ll get honest opinions to help you pick the best brands to work with.

Job Type

Why do you need a specific tool? What will you use it for? Understanding the answers to these questions will help you purchase the correct tools for the job. Some truck driver tools serve niche purposes. You don’t want to buy a tool made for flatbed truck drivers if you’re not a flatbed truck driver.

Price

 Price is a key factor when buying semi-truck driver tools. However, cheaper isn’t always better. You may save money at the time of purchase but end up spending more due to frequent replacements. Similarly, the more expensive option may not be better either. Try to strike a balance between price and quality so you can find affordable, high-quality tools that will serve you well for a long time. 

17 essential tools for truck drivers

 Some essential tools nearly all owner-operators carry and find helpful during their trips include:

Toolbox

A toolbox will help you keep all your tools in one place, so they’re easy to find when required. Get one that is effective yet compact. You want it to fit inside your truck without taking up too much space while providing enough room to accommodate almost all the other tools you need. 

Also, look for a toolbox with several compartments, or consider purchasing a truck toolbox organizer. It will help you organize your tools according to their use, making it easier to get the right tool for a specific job when needed.

Standard Hand Tools

Standard hand tools, like screwdrivers, bolts, and nuts, are necessary for various truck repairs. Because you can never tell which issues may come up at a time, it’s best to keep a set of these essential tools close. You can purchase a 200-piece multipurpose set of bolts, screwdrivers, and nuts at a decent price, and they’ll last you a while.

Vice Grips

Vice grips are the go-to trucker tool for several truckers because of their versatility. Well-designed vice grips can help you remove or tighten nuts and bolts, bend wires, remove broken screws, cinch leaky tubes, and keep things in place. Include straight-jaw and curved vice grips of different sizes in your toolkit. You’ll be well-prepared for any repairs that may come your way.

Sledgehammer

Sledgehammers are perfect for identifying tire problems beforehand. You can perform quick tire pressure checks by hitting each tire and listening to the sound they produce. If your tires produce unfamiliar sounds, you’ll know there’s a problem and can handle it before it gets out of hand. 

In addition, purchase a regular medium to large hammer. You’ll need it to perform various tasks, like releasing stuck 5th wheels and frozen brakes or knocking ice off frozen padlocks and latches.

A Metal Dowel Rod

Metal dowel rods are must-have truck driver tools if you haul loads during winter. When your brakes freeze or get stuck, a dowel rod can help you break the ice and get back on the road faster. Ensure you’re keen not to hit your brake lining when using them. You don’t want to crack it and deal with more costly repairs.

Wrenches

Truckers should have wrenches to help loosen or tighten nuts and bolts when necessary. Preferably, get 6-, 8- and 10-inch adjustable wrenches, commonly known as crescent wrenches. They offer more coverage if you have to handle odd-shaped nuts and bolts.

A 4-inch crescent wrench may also be helpful if you need to work on the smaller, hard-to-reach sections of your truck, and a 12 or 14-inch is perfect for work on your trailer.

Crowbar

A crowbar is a multipurpose tool that can help you remove nails from the trailer bed before loading, break down wooden pallets, or pry open crates. With this tool, you can create more space at the back of your truck to carry more cargo or keep your load light.

Flashlight

Flashlights are essential for driving at night. You want to include a small and large flashlight in your toolkit. You can use the small flashlight to confirm if your 5th wheel is coupled to your trailer correctly. The large flashlight will be helpful when conducting pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections late at night or early in the morning. 

Gloves

Gloves keep your hands warm and protect you from injuries when fixing your truck. Different gloves help with various tasks. For example, canvas gloves are multipurpose and perfect for all sorts of handy work. They’ll help you get a tight grip on different tools, making your job easier.

You may also consider leather gloves for refueling, checking oil and belts, or windshield washing.

Duct Tape

Duct tape is a staple in most truckers’ toolkits because of its strength and durability. Specifically, clear and gorilla duct tape helps with quick fixes in and around your truck. Say you find damaged wires during your routine inspections. You can use clear duct tape to fix the problem temporarily until you get to a shop for repairs.

Wire Cutters

As an owner-operator, you’re likely to encounter various situations that require you to use wire cutters. Having them at hand will prevent frustrations.

A Tire Depth Gauge

Having a tire depth gauge in your toolkit helps with proper tire maintenance. You can perform routine checks to see how much time you still have with your tires, so you know when it’s time to replace them.

Tire Air Pressure Gauge

The internal pressure of your tires changes as the air heats up and expands. You need this tool to confirm if your tires have enough air at least once each day.

Final Thoughts

All these tools will help you save time and money while keeping you safe on the road. But remember, these are physical tools to help with mechanical truck repairs and maintenance. Other digital tools can help you increase the efficiency of your trucking operations.

If you’re an independent owner-operator, consider using trip planning plus load profitability apps to keep your fuel costs low and profit margins high. Or use real-time load trucking apps to connect with more well-paying trucking jobs.

For more recommendations of tools that can promote your health and make your trucking lifestyle more comfortable, visit our blog. Specifically, check out our detailed guides about top gifts for semi-truck drivers and the best semi-truck seat cushions.

 

GAP Insurance For Semi Trucks

Understanding Gap protection is essential for those leasing or financing their trucks. It proves valuable when your business vehicle is stolen or deemed a total loss in an accident, and you still owe on the loan. 

While gap insurance is typically supplemental, it’s worth considering shielding your business from unforeseen financial setbacks that could disrupt operations. Need to grasp what gap insurance is, how it operates, and who requires it? 

Here’s a brief guide to help you understand everything and determine if it’s necessary for you.

What Is Gap Insurance?

Gap insurance stands for guaranteed asset protection insurance. It’s an add-on insurance coverage that protects you if an unrecovered theft or total loss of your truck occurs.

If your loaned or leased business vehicle is stolen or irreparably damaged in an accident and you still owe money on your loan, your insurance company will typically compensate you based on the vehicle’s actual cash value or its stated value at the time of the incident. 

This reimbursement reflects the current market value of a similar vehicle, not necessarily the amount you initially paid for the vehicle or the remaining loan balance.

Because vehicles depreciate fast, losing about 20% of their purchase value within a year, the actual value amount your insurer pays will probably not be enough to clear your outstanding loan balance. And this is where gap coverage comes in. 

Gap insurance helps cover the difference between your insurer’s standard comprehensive or collision coverage payout and the remaining loan or lease balance. So you can clear the amount you owe your lender and avoid making loan payments for a truck that no longer exists or is inoperable.

To qualify for gap coverage, you must have other auto-insurance coverage options, specifically comprehensive or collision coverage, on your policy.

What Does Gap Insurance Cover? 

Unlike most types of commercial truck insurance, GAP insurance coverage does not cover bodily injuries or pay for property damages and repairs. Instead, it works as a safety net, helping you clear your outstanding loan balance if you suffer total loss for your truck. 

Also, note that GAP insurance doesn’t cover extra charges associated with your loan, like finance and excess mileage charges. 

Who Should Get A Gap Insurance Cover? 

Consider purchasing gap insurance coverage if you:

  • Are operating on a lease. Gap insurance is a requirement for obtaining a lease from most lenders.
  • Have a long financing term for your truck. The longer you finance your vehicle, the higher the chance you’ll owe more than the vehicle’s worth, since your truck will continue to depreciate with time. 
  • Have a low down payment on your new truck purchase or none. If the down payment you made when buying your vehicle was less than 20% (or none) of its purchase price, you’ll probably get negative equity once you leave the dealership. It will be wise for you to purchase gap coverage to protect your business from negative equity.
  • Want to protect your business assets from depreciation? Some vehicles depreciate faster than others. You’ll benefit from gap insurance if your truck falls under this category. Here’s how to calculate your vehicle’s depreciation rate to determine if gap coverage is necessary.
  • Have a loan rollover. Say you transfer your existing car loan balance onto a new vehicle loan. If your new loan is more than your vehicle’s worth at the time of loan renewal, gap coverage will be helpful to you.

What Is The Difference Between Gap Insurance And Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial auto insurance is mandatory for businesses to operate in nearly all states. It covers all the cars your company uses for business, offering protection against specific risks, including collision and non-collision incidents and their aftermath. 

Gap insurance works as an optional add-on coverage. You’ll have to purchase other commercial auto insurance policies before getting it to boost your financial stability. Gap insurance also works well for the business vehicles you finance through a loan or lease – it doesn’t apply to all commercial vehicles like commercial auto insurance. 

Further, gap protection doesn’t cover various risks as commercial auto liability insurance does. Instead, gap insurance covers the difference between your truck’s actual cash value and the amount you owe your leasing agency or lender.

How Long Does Gap Insurance Last?

Once you include gap coverage in your insurance policy, it remains active for the duration of the policy. But you can cancel it when you keep making payments and reduce your loan balance to less than your vehicle’s current value. You’ll have to monitor your loan balance against your truck’s market value regularly to know when to cancel the insurance.

How To Purchase Gap Insurance

The simplest, most affordable way to purchase gap insurance is to check with your insurer and see if they can include it in your existing policy. If not, consider getting it from a trusted vehicle financing institution like Mission Financial Services. You can also get gap insurance from car dealerships, although their price will likely be higher than most insurance companies.

Final Thoughts

Although optional, Gap coverage is essential, especially if you’re on a loan or lease repayment plan. It will save you from paying loan debt on a totaled truck, i.e., a truck that can no longer make you money. 

Also, some providers offer additional benefits with their gap insurance packages and at low costs. With Mission Financial Services gap protection, for example, you’ll be fully covered (including reimbursement for your insurance deductible) after an unrecovered theft or total loss event.

You can enjoy the peace of mind you need to grow your business, knowing you won’t have to pay anything out-of-pocket in the unfortunate event you lose your loaned truck before clearing its loan. 

To learn more about how our add-on coverage options work or how we can help finance your new or used commercial truck purchase after a total loss, reach out to us. We’re always ready to help you thrive.

Fuel Efficiency Strategies In Semi-Trucks

 

Are you concerned about the rise in diesel fuel prices and looking for fuel-efficiency strategies to cut costs? You’re not alone. 

The new truck emissions regulations plus rising fuel costs have many fleet operators and independent truckers looking to increase their semi-truck’s fuel efficiency. Increased fuel efficiency helps you reduce emissions to the environment and save fuel. It can make a big difference in your business operations and profit margins.

Below, you’ll find 17 simple fuel efficiency strategies you can implement to improve your semi-truck fuel economy and reduce your fuel costs.

The Importance of Semi-Truck Fuel Efficiency

Semi-truck fuel efficiency is crucial for three primary reasons:

  1. Environmental Impact

The transport sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. It generates about 29% of the total greenhouse gas emissions, and the trucking industry accounts for nearly 23% of the 29%. By increasing your semi-truck fuel efficiency, you use less fuel for longer. 

  1. Compliance With Environmental Regulations   

Increasing your semi-truck fuel efficiency helps you comply with all federal and state regulations on greenhouse gas emissions. You also stay aligned with the latest zero-emission goals for the trucking industry. 

  1. Higher Profit Margins  

Improving fuel efficiency reduces your semi-truck’s fuel consumption. You’ll spend less on fuel and save money. These savings add up and can increase your profit margins in the long run.

Average Semi Truck Miles Per Gallon

An average semi-truck gets approximately 6 – 8 miles per gallon (mpg). The low fuel economy of most heavy-duty vehicles is because of their weight. The heavier your semi-truck is, the less fuel-efficient it will be unless you actively take action to increase fuel efficiency. 

Semi-truck fuel efficiency isn’t constant. It may vary depending on many factors, such as:

  1. The model of the truck. Newer semi-truck models have advanced technologies, like low-rolling resistance tires and an aerodynamic design, to optimize engine performance and improve fuel economy.
  2. How you drive: Aggressive driving habits like speeding and hard braking burn more fuel and decrease fuel efficiency compared to safe driving habits, like moving at a safe speed.
  3. The weight of cargo: Semi-trucks hauling heavy cargo have a lower fuel economy than trucks hauling lighter goods.

How to Manage Semi-Truck Fuel Efficiency 

Fuel efficiency strategies that work focus on controlling truck drivers’ actions and vehicle maintenance. Some include:

Inspect Vehicle Before Trips 

Inspect your vehicle and fix any damage before your trip. Damages to your truck’s body, such as a bent front bumper, low body skirting, and missing or loose parts on your truck’s exterior, can all affect the vehicle’s aerodynamic design. The less aerodynamic your semi-truck is, the higher your fuel consumption and the lower your fuel economy.

Plan your trip

Trip planning helps you optimize your routes, identifying the most effective way to deliver cargo in the shortest time possible. You’ll know where to fuel up, stop for breaks, or park for the night. You can also tell where road constructions are in advance and find the best way to navigate such situations without increasing fuel usage.

When planning your trips, avoid mountainous terrain because steep grades often decrease semi-truck fuel efficiency.

Avoid Overfilling Tank

Getting a full tank right up to capacity leads to fuel wastage. Fuel expands when hot. When you over-fuel, it’s likely to seep out the sides as you drive. Fuel spillage is a sign of low fuel efficiency. It’s also dangerous for other motorists. 

Use Low Rolling Resistance Tires

Low rolling resistance tires designed for semi-trucks need less energy to move. Using the right tires helps you reduce the fuel you use and increase your fuel economy.

Check Tire Pressure

Maintaining your tires in good condition also helps maximize fuel efficiency and save money. Check your tire pressure regularly to ensure they’re well-inflated. Your fuel usage increases by 1.5% if your wheels are underinflated by ten pounds for every square inch (PSI). On the other hand, inflating your tires well saves you about $0.11 per gallon.

Check Tire Alignment

Misalignment between your front and rear axles creates higher rolling resistance, which increases fuel usage and tire wear. Regularly checking your tire alignment ensures you handle misalignment issues early and use fuel efficiently.

Slow Down

Every increase in driving speed consumes more diesel. For example, driving above 75 mph consumes approximately 27% more fuel than driving at 65mph.

Maintain a constant speed to ensure your fuel consumption remains consistent. Stay in one gear while sticking to the speed limit as long as possible. The fuel economy of trucks reduces by 0.1 MPG for each mph you drive above 55 mph.

Brake Wisely 

Many drivers use various braking methods to reduce the number of unnecessary complete stops, especially at stoplights and stop signs. This helps you avoid restarting your vehicle often. It takes more fuel to restart your truck whenever you come to a complete stop.

Use Your Momentum

Driving a heavy-duty vehicle generates momentum even if you travel at constant speed. By strategically using momentum to coast through certain situations, such as approaching stop lights or slowing down when going downhill, you can reduce the need for heavy braking. Using your momentum helps you use your brakes sparingly, which reduces fuel usage.

Use Cruise Control

For better fuel economy, use cruise control whenever you get an opportunity to do so. Cruise control helps you move at a constant, safe average speed throughout, using enough fuel. It prevents excessive acceleration and braking, which lowers the fuel economy of trucks.

Manage Cruise RPM

RPM, your truck’s revolutions per minute, measures engine speed. Semi-trucks use more fuel at higher engine speeds and less at lower speeds. Monitor your truck’s RPM to keep the figure within the range recommended by the manufacturer. Slower speeds and lower RPM will reduce your fuel costs.

Avoid Idling

Most truck drivers leave their semi-trucks idling when running quick errands. Others leave their trucks idle to stabilize the temperature on a hot or chilly day. But this behavior wastes fuel. You lose a gallon of gas in an hour of idling. Always turn off your truck when you have to leave it.

Avoid heavy traffic 

Heavy traffic contributes to idling, which, as mentioned above, wastes fuel. Consider paying attention to real-time traffic updates to recognize congestion-prone routes ahead of time and work around them to avoid getting caught up in traffic and idling.

Keep load height low

A low cargo height reduces wind resistance, so your truck moves smoothly with less fuel. This helps you save fuel costs. Keeping your load height low and evenly distributed also improves fuel efficiency by improving your semi-truck aerodynamics.

Invest in Aerodynamics

There are several technological advancements and add-ons you can invest in to make your truck more fuel-efficient. A few add-ons to improve aerodynamics and get you more miles per gallon include:

  • Truck Wings – close the gap between your cab and trailer, reducing drag
  • Side extenders
  • Roof fairings
  • Trailer skirts
  • Deep angled bumpers

Adopt Electronically Controlled Transmissions

Automated manual transmissions are a new technology that helps increase fuel mileage and improve fuel economy. An automated manual transmission (AMT) makes driving smoother and less tiring, leading to increased driver safety and better performance. 

Most trucking companies are switching to automatic transmissions to improve driver retention and increase fuel efficiency.

Regular Preventative Maintenance

A regular preventative maintenance schedule can also lead to an improved fuel economy. Ensure you:

  • Change your air filter regularly
  • Replace your fuel filter often
  • Change your oil plus oil filter regularly
  • Consider switching to synthetic oil, which has less engine resistance
  • Grease your fifth wheel top plate regularly

Here are a few more semi-truck care tips you should consider.

Final Thoughts 

All the fuel efficiency strategies discussed above will help you reduce fuel expenses and increase your income. To begin, control your speed. Speed control is the number one strategy you can implement today and start seeing results almost immediately.

If you’re a fleet owner, create speed control guidelines your drivers can follow and incentivize them to ensure they’re motivated to adhere to all speed control guidelines. Your operating costs will be reduced, and your profit will increase. 

Also, consider replacing your older trucks with newer models fitted with the latest fuel-saving technologies to enhance fuel economy. In this case, call us. We’ll customize our commercial loan options to your business needs and help finance your purchase without interrupting your cash flow.

 

defensive driving

The Benefits Of A Defensive Driving Course For Truck Drivers

defensive driving

Driver error is one of the top causes of the 388,000+ truck accidents across the U.S. annually. To reduce the number of truck accidents and keep our roads safe, key stakeholders within the trucking industry, like the National Safety Council, offer defensive driving courses for truckers.

A well-designed defensive driving course for truck drivers provides standard truck-specific defensive driving training to new and seasoned truck drivers. 

Let’s explore the concept of defensive driving, including the benefits of defensive driving courses, to help you understand what you can do to avoid accidents and remain safe behind the wheel.

What Is Defensive Driving?

Defensive driving uses safe driving techniques to predict and mitigate potentially risky road situations before accidents happen. These safe driving practices allow truckers like you to prepare for the actions careless drivers might take and how fluctuating road conditions might affect the way cars operate. 

Almost all defensive driving training programs are centered on proactive, safety-focused driving skills based on two core principles:

  • Increasing driver awareness to help drivers stay alert of their surroundings so they can notice any changes and respond in good time
  • Creating a buffer – i.e., taking full responsibility for your vehicle. This includes driving a safe car and knowing how your vehicle should be driven in hazardous conditions. It also includes knowing when to take your vehicle off the road, if needed, to keep yourself and all other road users safe.

truck driver

Who Can Benefit from Defensive Driving Training?

Defensive driving training helps drivers improve their driving skills while addressing various issues affecting their driving records. These training programs are helpful to new and seasoned drivers, including:

  • Inexperienced drivers under 21 years. Most states have a point or demerit system under which an individual’s driving license gets suspended or revoked based on the total points accumulated for the traffic offenses committed within a certain period. 
  • Mature drivers from 55 years and above. Most mature drivers may experience a decline in reaction time and flexibility or vision and hearing challenges. Several states, like New Jersey, offer defensive driving courses to mature drivers to help them learn how to compensate for any changes they may face and continue to drive safely.  

What Does Defensive Truck Driving Training Include?

Defensive truck driving training covers various aspects of driving commercial trucks, including:

Speed Management

A speed management defensive driving course helps you understand how to choose the right speed following changing road conditions. So you can take the most appropriate action to avoid collisions.

Space Management 

As a defensive driver course, speed management offers lessons on managing the space around your vehicle. You’ll learn about maintaining enough space between cars as a safety cushion, changing lanes and merging, adjusting to traffic, etc.

Driver Distractions  

A defensive driving course on driver distractions covers different driver distractions, their consequences, and how to minimize them.

Emergency Maneuvers

Emergency Maneuvers like evasive steering to avoid hitting oncoming or stationary vehicles and off-road recovery are part of a defensive driver training module to help you prevent fatal injuries and losses.

Skid Control 

A defensive driving course on skid control covers different skids, their causes, and how to avoid or recover from them.

Rear-End Collision Avoidance  

With this online or classroom course, you’ll know how to calculate and maintain enough following distance, estimate stopping time, and navigate intersections or other passing vehicles.

Lane Changes and Intersections 

This course equips you with skills in changing lanes and navigating intersections effectively. You’ll learn about mirror use and lane change rules.

Night Driving 

Defensive night driving covers reduced visibility and increased fatigue. Here are a few overnight safety travel tips to note.

Winter Driving 

In a winter defensive driving course skills you’ll gain include installing tire chains, dealing with poor traction and skids, plus knowing when to stop and park safely.

Crash Reporting And Investigation Procedure  

An effective crash reporting and investigation procedure course provides all the details you need to handle truck accidents effectively.

Benefits Of A Defensive Driving Course For Truck Drivers

Besides knowing how to drive safely, a defensive driving course for truckers offers the following benefits:

Saving Lives

All the safe driving practices you learn from defensive driving training help you save thousands of lives. You become alert on the road and can easily tell when a person is about to make a mistake that can cost many their lives, then respond fast enough to prevent it from happening. 

Saving Money

Becoming a defensive driver saves you money in different ways:

  • You qualify for lower insurance rates and discounts on your auto insurance premiums.
  • Avoid vehicle damage costs related to truck collisions.
  • Avoid losing cash on product compensation because of reduced cargo damage in transit.
  • Safe driving improves vehicle longevity because of reduced wear and tear from aggressive driving. You spend less on vehicle maintenance.

Avoiding Traffic Violations

A defensive driving course improves your driving skills. You get a good grasp of traffic regulations and can avoid traffic violations. You’ll also avoid the penalties that come with each traffic ticket.

For truckers with a poor driving record, a defensive driving course can help you reduce points and improve your driving record. 

Improving Company Reputation And Bottom Line

For fleet owners, defensive driving courses help you to:

  • Improve your company’s reputation through safe driving behaviors
  • Qualify for insurance reduction
  • Reduce costs associated with driving incidents and insurance claims
  • Improving driver retention. 

All these benefits can reduce operating costs and increase savings to improve your bottom line.  

Final Thoughts

Getting defensive driving training is essential, whether you pay for your fleet drivers to take the course or do it in a personal capacity. You’ll gain critical skills that’ll help you thrive in the trucking industry.

With a stable internet connection, you can successfully complete defensive driving courses online at your own pace. So you don’t have to worry about the lessons interfering with your trucking schedule. The National Safety Council offers some of the best online defensive driving courses. Consider taking their online safety training courses.

Contact us at Mission Financial Services if you get involved in a trucking accident and need help to get back on track. We can help finance your repairs or truck purchase to get you back on the road sooner.

 

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