Trucking Blog
Insights and Tips for the Trucking Industry
Welcome to our Trucking Blog, a trusted source for industry insights, tips, and news. Whether you’re a truck driver, a fleet manager, or have an interest in the transportation sector, our blog is here to inform and inspire you. Dive into a wealth of articles covering topics such as truck maintenance, driver safety, industry trends, and much more. Stay updated with the latest happenings, learn best practices, and discover valuable resources to enhance your trucking journey. Join us as we explore the road ahead and share our passion for all things trucking.
Navigating Family Emergencies in a Trucking Family: Challenges and Solutions
Life on the road as a trucker is full of unique challenges, but one of the toughest aspects is managing family emergencies from afar. Trucking families face a distinct set of hurdles when it comes to handling the everyday crises that other families might take in stride. Let’s dive into the reasons why these situations…
Maximizing Every Mile: Tips for Truckers to Get the Most Out of Every Trip
In the trucking industry, every mile matters. Whether you’re an owner-operator or part of a larger fleet, making sure you get the most out of every mile can significantly impact your bottom line. From fuel efficiency to time management, there are several strategies you can employ to optimize your journeys. Here’s how you can ensure…
The Real Impact of the Trucking Business and Lifestyle on Family
The trucking industry is often romanticized for the open road, the freedom of travel, and the essential service it provides to the economy. However, behind the scenes, the reality for truckers and their families can be quite different. At Lestalkstrucking, we recognize the profound impact that a trucking career can have on family life. This…
Understanding Per Mile Pay and the Real Costs of Company-Sponsored Trucking Schools
When you’re navigating the world of trucking, understanding the financial aspects is crucial. One of the most important factors to consider is your per mile pay. Additionally, if you’re thinking about attending a company-sponsored trucking school, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks. Let’s break down why focusing on per mile pay is…
Steps to Getting Your CDL and Finding Funding for Schooling
Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) opens up numerous career opportunities in the transportation industry. Whether you’re dreaming of hitting the open road or looking for a stable, well-paying job, obtaining a CDL is a crucial step. Here’s a detailed guide on the steps to get your CDL and how to secure funding for your…
What Really is a Struggle for New Truckers
Embarking on a career as a trucker is an exciting adventure. The open road, the sense of freedom, and the promise of good earnings are just some of the appealing aspects of the job. However, as many new truckers quickly discover, the life of a truck driver comes with its own set of challenges. At…
Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul: Understanding the Differences Between OTR and Local Trucking
In the trucking industry, the terms long-haul (Over-the-Road or OTR) and short-haul (local) refer to different types of routes and work schedules. Each has its unique demands, benefits, and challenges. Whether you’re an aspiring truck driver or a seasoned professional considering a switch, understanding these differences is crucial. At LESTALKSTRUCKING.com, we’re here to help you…
How to Stay Awake During Long Hours of Driving
Long-haul trucking can be both a rewarding and challenging profession. One of the biggest challenges truck drivers face is staying awake and alert during extended hours on the road. Here at LESTALKSTRUCKING.com, we understand the importance of staying awake and safe while driving. Here are some practical tips to help you stay alert and focused…
Breaking into the Industry: A Guide for Aspiring Truck Drivers
Are you considering a career as a truck driver? It’s a rewarding profession that offers adventure, independence, and the opportunity to see the country. However, getting started in the trucking industry can be challenging. This guide will provide insights on obtaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), choosing the right training program, and what to expect…
Trucker Lifestyle: It’s More Than Just a Job
Driving a semi-truck is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle. For those considering a career in trucking, it’s important to understand what life on the road truly entails. It’s not just about driving from point A to point B; it’s about embracing a way of life that is unique, challenging, and rewarding. Let’s…
Understanding DOT Hours of Service for Truckers
If you’re new to the trucking industry or just curious about the rules truck drivers must follow, you’ve come to the right place. The Department of Transportation (DOT) hours of service regulations are designed to keep truckers and everyone else on the road safe. Let’s break down what these rules mean and how they impact…
What It Really Takes to Haul Hazardous Materials with a Semi State to State
Hauling hazardous materials (HazMat) across state lines is a job that demands utmost responsibility, specialized knowledge, and strict adherence to safety protocols. As a truck driver, transporting HazMat isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about ensuring the safety of yourself, the public, and the environment. In this article, we’ll dive…
The Best Apps for Truckers That Pay Affiliate Commissions
In the fast-paced world of trucking, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference. Apps designed specifically for truckers can enhance efficiency, improve safety, and boost overall productivity. Plus, as an added bonus, some of these apps offer affiliate commissions, providing an excellent opportunity for truckers and those in the trucking…
The Trucker’s Guide to Finding the Best Truck Stops
For long-haul truck drivers, finding a good truck stop can mean the difference between a restful break and a frustrating ordeal. The best truck stops offer not just fuel, but also comfortable amenities, good food, and a safe environment. Knowing how to spot the best, and which ones to avoid, can significantly enhance your on-the-road…
Freelance Trucking vs. Company Driving: Managing Loads and Charting Your Own Course
Trucking is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle that offers unique challenges and opportunities, whether you’re a freelance trucker or a company driver. Each path has its advantages and strategies for managing loads effectively. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about your career path in the trucking industry. Understanding Your Options:…
Mastering the Balance: Navigating Your 70-Hour Work Week Clock in Trucking
For many truck drivers, managing the 70-hour work week clock isn’t just a regulatory requirement; it’s an essential skill for both safety and productivity. Under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, truck drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 70 hours in an 8-day period before requiring a 34-hour reset. This rule…
Understanding and Embracing the Trucking Lifestyle: A Guide for Truckers’ Spouses
Being married to a trucker is much more than a marital status; it’s a partnership that stretches across miles, schedules, and long days apart. For many spouses, the truck can sometimes feel like a rival, pulling their loved ones away and returning them as if they’ve been with another. But understanding that trucking is more…
Current State of the Trucking Industry and Entering the Field in 2024
The trucking industry in 2024 presents a mixed landscape marked by both challenges and opportunities for new entrants. Here’s an honest look at what it’s like to get into trucking right now, considering the economic, regulatory, and market dynamics. The Economic and Market Context 2024 is shaping up to be a year of cautious stabilization…
OOIDA: Championing the Rights of Truckers Across America
Who is OOIDA? The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is a vital advocate for professional truck drivers in North America. Founded in 1973, OOIDA has been a staunch supporter of the rights and interests of truckers navigating the complexities of the industry. Representing the interests of independent owner-operators and professional drivers, OOIDA’s mission is to…
Enhancing Positivity and Community in the Trucking Industry: Strategies for Success
The trucking industry, characterized by long hours and significant time away from home, can sometimes feel isolating and challenging. Addressing negativity and fostering a positive environment is crucial for the wellbeing of drivers and the overall success of the industry. Let’s explore effective strategies to manage negativity, enhance positivity, and build a supportive community within…
Navigating Forced Dispatch in Trucking: How to Find Companies That Respect Your Time
Introduction For many truckers, forced dispatch remains a significant issue, dictating their schedules and often compromising their autonomy. Being required to take loads without the option to decline can lead to stress, fatigue, and conflicts with Hours of Service regulations. In this post, we’ll delve into the realities of forced dispatch, how it affects drivers,…
Mastering Your Mindset on the Road: Strategies for Truckers to Stay Focused and Goal-Oriented
Introduction Long hours on the road can be more than just physically demanding; they can also be a mental marathon. For truckers, the solitude and repetitive nature of driving can sometimes lead to a wandering mind or a sense of monotony. However, this time also presents a unique opportunity to harness your thoughts positively, set…
Maximize Your Potential to Earn From Home
In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of making money from the comfort of your own home has become increasingly popular. With the rise of digital marketing and entrepreneurship, individuals now have more opportunities than ever to create a sustainable income while maintaining their authenticity and staying true to themselves. The traditional 9-5 office job is…
Understanding Your Worth: Empowering Women in Trucking
Understanding Your Worth Empowering Women in Trucking In an industry traditionally dominated by men, women truck drivers are increasingly marking their presence and proving their invaluable contributions to trucking. Yet, many women in trucking face unique challenges, from securing sustainable driving positions to negotiating fair pay. It’s crucial for women entering the industry to recognize…
Staying Safe on Flooded Roads: Tips for Truckers Handling Light or Empty Trailers
Staying Safe on Flooded Roads Tips for Truckers Handling Light or Empty Trailers In Texas and similar areas prone to severe weather, truckers often confront the daunting task of navigating roads obscured by flooding. Driving with a light-loaded or empty trailer in such conditions demands specific knowledge and skills to ensure safety. This blog post…
The Essential Safety Net: Why Truckers Need a Secondary Income Stream
The Essential Safety Net Why Truckers Need a Secondary Income Stream The open road, the long hauls, the freedom of being your own boss—trucking can be an incredibly rewarding career. But it’s not without its risks. Unlike many other professions, truckers face a unique set of challenges that can impact not just their professional life…
Navigating FMLA as a Truck Driver
Discover how truck drivers can navigate FMLA regulations and ensure work-life balance. Expert tips and guidance for FMLA compliance in the trucking industry.
How To Create LESS Stress In Your Life!
Reduce stress and find peace in your life with practical tips and strategies. Transform your well-being and enjoy a stress-free lifestyle.
Starting A Master Resell Rights Business
Embracing the world of digital commerce, truck drivers can leverage their skills, experience, and connections to embark on a new and exciting journey in business.
Navigating the Road to a DOT Card
If you’re considering a career as a commercial truck driver, obtaining a Department of Transportation (DOT) card is an essential step in ensuring your eligibility to operate commercial vehicles on public roads.
Navigating The Many Lanes
Truck driving is a diverse field with a multitude of opportunities and specializations. From local deliveries to cross-country hauls, the world of truck driving offers various career paths to suit various interests.
Unveiling the Mental Challenges
The mental challenges faced by truck drivers are often hidden behind the wheel, yet they significantly impact their well-being and job performance. Recognizing the isolation, stress, sleep disruptions, and…
Unveiling Health Issues Faced by Truck Drivers
Raising Awareness! Shedding Light on the Health Challenges Faced by Truck Drivers Introduction In the vast network of transportation that fuels our economies, truck drivers play a vital role. These modern-day highway heroes, however, face a unique set of challenges, both on and off the road. Beyond the demanding schedules and long hours, truck drivers…
The Evolution of Trucking
The Evolution of Trucking Exploring the Game-Changing Innovations That Have Transformed Truck Driving Introduction Truck driving, a profession that has been around for decades, has undergone tremendous changes since its inception. From the primitive era of hauling mammoth carcasses to the modern-day highways, the evolution of truck driving has been simply “mind-blowing.” In this sarcastic…
Navigating The Road
Navigating the Road Ensuring Safety and Compliance on the Highways Introduction: Ensuring safety on the highways is of paramount importance, especially when it comes to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, plays a vital role in promoting highway safety and regulating the…
The Financial Impact of Time Off Work
the Financial Impact of Time Off Understanding the Adverse Effects of Work Absences on Truckers’ Earnings and the Factors Behind Them Introduction For truck drivers, time off work is often seen as a well-deserved break from the long hours on the road. However, what many may not realize is that taking time off can have…
Buckle Up Buttercup
Buckle Up Buttercup! ELDs on the Menu Today! Alright, buckle up buttercups because we’re about to talk about ELD logs! Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Oh great, another boring article about trucking regulations.” But trust me, this is going to be a wild ride. We’re going to dive deep into the world of electronic…
How To Pre-Trip
How To Pre-Trip Let’s talk about that Pre-Trip inspection that you did in school. Did you know that you must complete that before each TRIP, hence the reason it is called a PRE-TRIP. Now once you are a CDL holder, you can speed this process up quite a bit. It is time-consuming but it makes…
Best Practices for Bad Weather Driving
To Drive or Not to Drive So let’s get down to business and talk about what you are required to do and what you are not required to do in this industry. Obviously, you are a driver, it is your job to transport your load from point A to point B. But what do you…
Best Practices for Highway Driving
Best Practices: Highway Driving We all know that I am a truck driver. I am also one to follow the safety of the road and the law due to the kind of license I hold, I am responsible for the motoring public. I’ll bet you didn’t actually know that, did you? We as truck drivers,…
Best Practices for Managing Diabetes on a Truck
Best Practices For Managing Diabetes On a Truck If you know a truck driver you know that many of them suffer from ailments. The reason that this happens is the job is a sedentary one, and one with very few options to stay healthy. Due to the lack of healthy options in truck stops and…
How To Guide on Parenting As Truck Driver
Making Money Missing Time Let’s talk about this touchy subject. While you are out making those wheels turn to bring in money to support your family, you are missing time with them. Events, moments, birthdays, holidays. Let’s dive into this and how you can make it work. Parenting as Truck Driver Now let me address…
Guide to HOURS of SERVICE
Hours of Service Truckers fight the clock Up until the year 2012, trucks were not required to use Electronic Logs. We used to use paper logs to record our time and movement. We lovingly called them coloring books. They aree not always the easiest to use those paper logs and it takes a lot to…
Best Practices When New:
Best Practices When New How to know what to do if you are a new driver. What things mean on the road, and what other drivers are trying to tell you on the road if you don’t have a way to communicate. All these things are important. What should I do if I am new? TAKE YOUR…
How To on Finding a Trucking Company After School
How to: Find a Job after CDL School Let’s dig in! First of all, congratulations on getting your CDL. You have made a wise choice in earning great money (if you choose a good company) and being a pirate of the concrete sea as we affectionately call it. Within this article, I plan to give you…
How to Guide on Getting your CDL
How to get your CDL Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a process that requires training, testing, and certification. Overview This is going to be a 30,000-foot view if you will of a step-by-step guide: Determine your eligibility Before applying for a CDL, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. These are strict because we…
How to go from Greenhorn to Professional Driver
Greenhorn or Professional Let’s talk about progression of a truck driver for a moment. Everyone has to start someplace and in truck driving we have a couple of titles for those that are new. Greenhorn or steering wheel holder is the first title you earn. But what do they mean? Shall we dig in? Greenhorn…
Best Tools For a New Truck Driver
Best Tools For New Drivers Congratulations! You have passed your test and now hold a CDL and hopefully you have a job with a reputable company. All that being said and out of the way, let’s discuss tools that you are going to need for your new job and what my husband and I use on…
Truck Driving is a Unique and Challenging Profession
Truck Driving… What is it? Truck driving is a unique and challenging profession that requires drivers to transport goods and materials across long distances. It is a profession that is vital to the economy, as it is responsible for moving goods between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. You just sit behind a wheel.. that’s not hard…..
Power Struggles
Power Struggles Ah the wonders of needing to power the bigger Items you need to live. As you continue on your journey over the road you will invariably collect stuff you find will make your life easier. A fridge, microwave, laptop or TV to watch in your off time, coffee maker ect. This requires special equipment…
Fridge on the Truck, Compact Review
Let’s review the fridge we use and why we think it is the best! Tried and True A question that I get asked quite a few times is what kind of fridge we use on our truck? We works for us and how we keep it alive. How can I set it up, how can…
Following Distance, The Unknown Danger
Let’s Meet Our Players This Round First up let’s meet Dave! Say Hello Dave! Dave’s a good guy, always does his pre-trip, checks his truck and load daily. Dave gets plenty of sleep at night, has had the same schedule for year. All in all Dave is the perfect driver, knows his route and is…
What do you need to start your journey?
Start Here, Just start Ok where to start, where to start……….well that seems to be the question at hand and the reason for this article…so let’s dig in!! Hi my name is Mike and I am an author here at Les Talks Trucking. I wanted to get on and share my experience and let you…
Overcoming Frustration in the Beginning
Congrats! Well you did it! You decided to go to driving school! I am so proud you!! If you haven’t already stick around for the ultimate guide on how to get from decision to school! If you have chosen a school I couldn’t be more excited for you! I hope you did your research, I…
Let’s Start At the Beginning
The Beginning This greatly depends on which beginning you are thinking? The beginning of trucking? Or where I began? Let’s go with how I got into the trucking industry. That is the place I have the most knowledge. Beginning the Search When the opportunity presented itself to me to achieve my lifelong dream of truck…
Trucking Information
Let’s Talk Trucking with Les!! WHAT IS TRUCKING? Trucking is possibly the most rewarding way to get paid in my opinion. It is being in control of 18 wheels and possibly up to 80,000 pounds of product that you haul. That is just if you haul what is called a dry van, over size and…
About Les and Tammy
Welcome to Les Talks Trucking website! We are excited you are here and are ready to help! We want to share our knowledge with you and understand that everyone’s struggles are real! Let us help direct you where you need it! OUR STORY We are simply two sisters whom have gotten tired of the rat…