The trucking industry has been an integral part of the global economy for decades, transporting goods from one place to another and supporting the growth of businesses around the world. As we continue to progress through the 21st century, emerging technologies are reshaping the way we approach this vital industry. With the introduction of autonomous vehicles, electric power trains, and advanced data analytics, the trucking landscape is rapidly evolving. In this blog, we will explore the impact of these emerging technologies on the trucking industry and the potential benefits they may bring in terms of efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Autonomous Trucks

One of the most significant advancements in the trucking industry is the development of autonomous vehicles. Self-driving trucks have the potential to revolutionize the way goods are transported, although we are still a long way from fully autonomous vehicles. 

 

While the prospect of autonomous trucks is exciting, there are still challenges to overcome, such as regulatory hurdles, public acceptance, and the need to ensure the technology is reliable and safe. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of autonomous trucks are hard to ignore and could lead to a more efficient and sustainable future for the trucking industry. 

 

Although many people assume that autonomous vehicles will affect trucking jobs, the more likely route for the foreseeable futures is that autonomous features will complement drivers, making their jobs easier and safer. 

Electric Trucks

Another emerging technology that is set to make a significant impact on the trucking industry is the shift towards electric powertrains. Electric trucks offer numerous advantages over their diesel counterparts, including lower operating costs, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and decreased noise pollution.

 

Several companies are currently working on developing electric trucks that are capable of competing with traditional diesel-powered vehicles in terms of range and payload capacity. As battery technology continues to improve, electric trucks will become an increasingly viable option for fleet operators looking to reduce their environmental footprint and save on fuel costs.

 

Electric trucks are also expected to benefit from the growth of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. As these clean energy technologies become more prevalent, charging electric trucks using renewable energy will further decrease their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable transportation sector.

Advanced Data Analytics and Connectivity

The trucking industry has long relied on data to optimize operations, but the advent of advanced data analytics and increased connectivity is taking this to a whole new level. The Internet of Things (IoT) is enabling real-time monitoring of trucks, while advanced analytics platforms can process vast amounts of data to provide insights that help improve efficiency, safety, and performance.

 

Fleet management systems are being integrated with cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to analyze data from various sources, including onboard sensors, GPS, and weather data. This allows fleet operators to make informed decisions about route optimization, fuel consumption, and vehicle maintenance, ultimately reducing operating costs and minimizing downtime.

 

Furthermore, connected trucks can communicate with each other and with infrastructure, facilitating a smoother flow of traffic and reducing the likelihood of accidents. For example, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication can help maintain safe distances between trucks, while vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication can provide real-time traffic updates to reroute trucks and avoid congestion.

Enhanced Safety Features

The integration of advanced safety features into commercial trucks is another way emerging technologies are impacting the industry. Driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, are becoming increasingly common in modern trucks, helping to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver error.

 

Moreover, the development of autonomous trucks will likely bring about even more advanced safety features, as the vehicles rely on a range of sensors and cameras to navigate the roads. 

Conclusion

Emerging technologies are set to have a profound impact on the trucking industry, with autonomous vehicles, electric powertrains, advanced data analytics, and enhanced safety features all contributing to a more efficient, sustainable, and safer future for the transportation of goods. While there are still challenges to be addressed, such as regulatory issues and technological development, the potential benefits of these innovations are immense. 

 

In the coming years, we can expect to see a growing number of electric and autonomous trucks on the roads, as well as increased reliance on data analytics to optimize fleet operations. This shift will likely result in reduced operating costs for businesses, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and improved safety for all road users.

 

Even as these changes affect the trucking industry, there is a persistent shortage of qualified drivers. This job is essential to keeping our nation moving forward, and truckers can enjoy excellent benefits and competitive compensation. If you’re interested in being at the forefront of the trucking industry’s future, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help you get started. 

 

Contact us today to learn more about our truck driver training programs. 

 

As a truck driver, backing up a semi-truck is one of the most challenging maneuvers you will face, but it is also an essential skill that must be mastered. With patience and consistent effort, however, it is possible to develop this skill effectively, and it will distinguish you from amateur drivers.

 

To make the semi-truck backing process easier, keep these tips in mind:

1. Prioritize Safety

Your safety and that of your truck are paramount when it comes to semi-truck backing. If you have any doubts about whether your trailer will fit, don’t be afraid to find a different spot or ask for help. You know your vehicle better than anyone else, and you should always trust your instincts. Additionally, if there are any objects or debris in your path, ask for them to be moved to ensure a safe backing process.

2. Take Your Time

Patience is key when it comes to backing a semi-truck. Don’t allow the pressure of others watching to make you rush. Remember, safety is always more important than speed. Driving slowly will significantly reduce the risk of an accident, so readjust your angles or do a few pull-ups before backing if you need to.

3. Always Get Out and Look

Before you back into a spot, always be aware of your surroundings. When in doubt, remember the acronym GOAL (get out and look). Take the time to walk completely around your truck and check for obstacles above, below, and underneath it. Although it may seem like a hassle, it is crucial not to rely solely on what you can see from inside your cab. You can physically check your position as often as you feel necessary to ensure safety.

4. Back the Trailer, Not the Truck

When backing a semi-truck, focus on backing the trailer rather than the truck. While this may feel counterintuitive, turning your steering wheel to the right turns the rear of the trailer left and vice versa. You can use your steering wheel to determine the direction of the trailer. Remember, when you place your left hand on the bottom of the steering wheel, the direction you move your hand is the direction the trailer will move.

 

5. Remember Your Training

When faced with a challenging area to back into, it is easy to doubt your abilities. However, remember that you have all the skills you need to back up a truck successfully. Take a deep breath, be patient with yourself, and remember what you learned during your CDL training. It is also helpful to take advantage of resources while you have them at your disposal. During your CDL training, ask your instructors for help and extra practice time to better prepare yourself for the road.

CDL Training In Albuquerque 

At Phoenix Truck Driving School, our experienced instructors will teach you the skills you need to be a successful truck driver, including backing up a semi-truck. We offer high-quality CDL training to help prepare you for any situation you may encounter on the road.

Contact us today to learn more about our trucking training. 

 

Being a truck driver is an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only do you get to see the country, but you get to enjoy great pay and possibly be your own boss. However, like any career field, trucking comes with some challenges. Long hours, difficult terrain, and safety concerns are just a few of the issues that truck drivers face. In this blog, we’ll discuss some tips for female truck drivers to help make your experience a bit easier. Many of these tips apply to drivers of both genders. 

 

Six tips for female truck drivers are:

1. Have Confidence in Yourself

One tip for female truck drivers is to remain confident. You put in the hours to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and know how to perform all the tasks necessary for a professional trucker. You may encounter other drivers offering to do difficult tasks for you, but you will not learn if you do not perform them yourself. You can further increase your confidence by asking questions and remaining calm in stressful situations.

1. Be Patient While Driving

It is also necessary for all truck drivers to practice patience on the road. Whether you’re backing, navigating a large city, or learning the ropes of truck driving, it is important not to get frustrated when you make mistakes. Instead of viewing difficult situations as mistakes, look at them as learning opportunities. 

1. Prioritize Safety

Safety should always be one of your top priorities as a professional driver. As a female driver, you may need to take extra precautions to stay safe while on the road. Lock your truck’s doors when you’re not inside, and always be aware of your surroundings. At truck stops, keep your cab curtains closed, keep your doors locked, and have your cell phone handy and charged at all times in case of an emergency. 

1. Develop a Support Network

Another tip for women in trucking is to develop a support network. Staying connected with your family and friends can help make the long hours on the road go by faster. Check in with them regularly along your route and update them on your whereabouts. Reaching out to other truck drivers, both male and female, is another way to stay connected. Keeping in touch and forming bonds with other truckers will encourage you to keep working hard.  

1. Familiarize Yourself With Your Truck and Route

Knowing how to maintain and operate your truck is essential for any truck driver. Ensure you’re familiar with the various parts of your vehicle and how to handle them. Trip planning is another necessary aspect of truck driving. Before embarking on a new route, familiarize yourself with the terrain, landmarks, and potential hazards. This preparation will help you navigate quickly and safely.

1. Drive For a Company That Values You

A final tip for female truck drivers is to work for a company that values you. Drive for a trucking company that prioritizes its employees and treats you with respect.

Find a Truck Driving School Near You

The trucking industry is an essential part of our nation’s economy, and the demand for male and female truck drivers continues to grow. Earning your CDL is the first step toward joining the industry, and you can do so at one of Phoenix Truck Driving School’s educational institutions. We have locations in Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, with instructors committed to helping you prepare for your new career.

Contact us today to learn more about our CDL training programs.

 

Truck driving school can be a great way to get your career as a truck driver off to a strong start. Attending a truck driving school can offer you several advantages. 

 

Here are seven benefits of truck driving school that you should consider:

1. Learn the Skills Necessary to Be a Professional Truck Driver

One of the most valuable benefits of truck driving school is that it teaches you the skills necessary to become a professional truck driver. The courses offered at a truck driving school cover everything from pre-trip inspections to defensive driving techniques. You’ll also learn about maintenance and safety regulations, as well as how to manage your time and fuel efficiently.

2. Familiarize Yourself With Semi-Trucks

Truck driving school is an excellent way to become familiar with the type of truck you’ll be operating as a professional driver. You’ll be able to learn the ins and outs of the vehicle, from the controls and gauges to the blind spots and instrumentation. The instructors will also teach you how to use the truck’s features effectively to ensure you’re driving safely.

3. Prepare for the CDL Test

The commercial driver’s license (CDL) test is a requirement for anyone who wants to become a professional truck driver. Attending a truck driving school is a great way to prepare for the CDL test. You’ll learn the material you need to know and be able to practice the skills you’ll need to pass the test.

4. Get Life-Long Support

Many truck driving schools are committed to providing life-long support to their students. The schools offer career counseling and job placement services to help you find a job in the trucking industry. They can also help you stay updated on the latest industry trends and regulations.

5. Network with Other Drivers

Truck driving school is also a great way to network with other drivers. You’ll be able to build relationships with other drivers who may be able to help you find a job or provide advice and support.

6. Develop Marketable Skills

Truck school can also help you develop marketable skills. You’ll learn how to manage your time and resources efficiently, as well as how to navigate challenging terrain and traffic. These valuable skills can help make you a better driver and more attractive to potential employers.

7. Learn the Rules of the Road

Finally, truck driving school is a great way to learn the rules of the open road. You’ll get an in-depth understanding of the regulations in your area and learn how to follow them to the letter. This knowledge can help you avoid costly tickets and fines.

Enjoy These Benefits With Phoenix Truck Driving School

Truck driving school can be an excellent investment in your future as a professional truck driver. At Phoenix Truck Driving School, you will learn the skills and regulations you need to become a successful driver. Plus, you’ll be able to network with other drivers and develop marketable skills that can help you find a job. So, if you’re looking to start a trucking career, consider attending one of our truck driving schools in Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico.

Contact us today to start your CDL training.

The trucking industry is an integral part of our country’s economy. Truck drivers are responsible for transporting 70% of the freight in the United States, and 80% of U.S. communities depend on truckers for their medicine, food, and other essential materials. Nearly every sector relies on trucking, and without truck drivers, the negative impact would affect many of our lives almost immediately.

 

Here are five crucial roles the industry plays that demonstrate the importance of truck drivers:

1. Transport Essential Goods

As mentioned above, the trucking industry is responsible for transporting the majority of the nation’s freight. This freight keeps our businesses, grocery stores, restaurants, hospitals, and homes operating at full capacity. Truck drivers are responsible for delivering everything from food items and bottled water to automobiles and chemical products. The oil and gas industry also relies on truck drivers for the safe transportation of their fuel.

1. Provide Aid in Emergencies

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the importance of truck drivers. Part of the essential goods truck drivers transport is emergency supplies such as medication and medical equipment like hand sanitizer, masks, cleaning supplies, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Truckers played a vital role in delivering these goods to hospitals and first responders and continue to do so. Without regular deliveries, many more lives would have been lost. 

1. Connect Businesses

While technology has brought businesses from across the country closer, truck drivers further close the distance between these establishments. Organizations can order supplies from anywhere in the nation or world because of the time management and safe driving skills of truckers. Drivers use the best routes to ensure shipments will be delivered on time, allowing companies to focus on their internal growth rather than logistics. 

1. Help Build Infrastructure

Truck drivers also play a role in infrastructure. They transport the supplies, raw materials, and equipment needed to complete construction projects like new roads, buildings, tunnels, and bridges. This transportation helps communities grow and remain strong with the timely delivery of lumber, steel, concrete, and more.

1. Contribute to the Workforce

The trucking industry contributes significantly to the American workforce. There are approximately 3.6 million professional truck drivers in the United States, with nearly 8 million people working in the transportation field in some capacity, according to the American Trucking Associations (ATA). These stable, well-paying jobs help maintain the economy. As our society moves forward, the need for eligible drivers will only grow.

Join the Trucking Industry Today

At Phoenix Truck Driving School, we recognize the importance of truck drivers. If you want to become a part of one of the nation’s most vital industries, we can give you the education you need to get started. We have schools in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas with high-quality programs that help you earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Contact us today to learn more about earning your CDL at one of our many locations.

Truck drivers are responsible for transporting goods and materials throughout the nation and these individuals keep our economy functioning. Roughly 72.2% of freight in the United States travels by semi-truck according to data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA). Having a basic overview of the freight transportation process can help truckers be more effective and understand the key role they play.

What Is Freight?

To understand how freight works, you first need to know what it is. Freight includes anything that is transported via land, sea, or air in a large quantity for a commercial purpose. This distinguishes the term from “shipping,” which includes smaller amounts of goods and can involve non-commercial shipments.

Who Is Involved?

There are various groups and individuals that are involved in freight logistics.

These include:

Shipper

This is the person or company that needs to ship the cargo. They are also sometimes called the consignor.

Receiver

The shipper sends freight to the receiver, also known as the consignee.

Carrier

The carrier is responsible for getting the shipment from the shipper to the receiver. Various individuals working with the carrier are responsible for different aspects of the process, from organizing the transportation to completing the actual driving.

Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs)

Many shippers outsource logistics management to third-party logistics providers (3PLs), which handle warehousing, paperwork, distribution, and other necessary tasks.

What Are Truckers Responsible For?

Each party involved in the logistics process has key responsibilities.

For truckers, these include:

• Knowing and following Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules and regulations
• Ensuring the cargo is properly secured
• Driving safely
• Making sure the truck is in good working condition
• Keeping necessary paperwork accessible in the truck in case this is requested

This is just a basic overview of the requirements for truckers, not an exhaustive list.

Types Of Truck Freight Shipments

Trucks can transport freight in a variety of ways:

Full Truckload (FTL or TL)

Like the name implies, a full truckload shipment, also known as FTL or TL, fills an entire trailer with freight for one shipper.

Less Than Truckload (LTL)

Less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation combines freight from multiple shippers. Each shipment takes up only a portion of the trailer’s space. LTL freight uses a hub and spoke model and shipments travel to terminals where they are sorted and sent back out to new terminals until they reach their destination.

Intermodal (ITML)

Intermodal shipping uses the same container to transport freight using multiple modes of transportation. For example, a ship might arrive with cargo that a truck then picks up and takes to its final destination without opening the container.

Multimodal (ML)

Multimodal shipments use more than one mode of transportation. This is different from intermodal transportation because the container is opened and the cargo is transferred.

How To Become A Trucker

If you’re interested in getting involved in freight transport as a truck driver, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help you get started. Our students can earn their commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks and we have schools in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

To learn more about our truck driving schools, contact us today.

After you earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL), the next step in your new career as a truck driver is to decide which trucking company to work for. However, before hopping in the cab, you should ensure that the company meets your expectations. Although interviews often feel one-sided, they are also a perfect opportunity to ask your own questions and learn more about the company you’re interviewing with. Ask potential trucking employers these 20 questions before taking a job with a new company.

Compensation and Pay

One of the main considerations for truck drivers is the salary. Before signing a contract, you must ensure that the company offers a pay package that fulfills your financial needs. This includes finding out all the details about pay rates, pay models, bonuses, and expected raises. You may end up negotiating some compensation factors, so come prepared with a list of non-negotiable items.

 

Five questions to ask potential trucking employers about pay packages are:

 

1. How much do you pay?
2. What pay model do you use?
3. What type of benefits do you offer?
4. What is your home time policy?
5. Does your company offer bonuses?

Operational Details 

Along with pay and benefits, another crucial component drivers need to know about a company before signing with them is their operational details. You should inquire about freight, endorsements, and routes. Knowing the specifics of these operations will help make you confident in your decision to accept or decline a position.

 

A few questions to ask about the operational details of a company are:

 

1. What type of freight do you haul?
2. How much of the freight is drop-and-hook?
3. In what areas does the company operate?
4. What kind of routes are available?
5. How will you be loading and unloading freight?

Equipment 

Equipment is closely tied to operational details, so you can’t consider one without the other. As a trucker, your rig will become your home away from home, so you will want to ensure that it has the basic amenities for a comfortable ride.

 

Questions to ask about equipment include:

 

1. What kind of equipment do your drivers operate?
2. What brands of trucks does the company use?
3. What is the average age of your trucks?
4. What amenities are the trucks equipped with?
5. Am I responsible for truck maintenance?

Company Culture 

You should also ask your recruiter a few questions to get a sense of the company culture. Companies with a strong culture can help drivers feel a sense of belonging and fulfillment. On the other hand, a high turnover rate may indicate that the company is not a good fit for you.

 

To learn more about the company culture, ask the following questions:

 

1. How many drivers do you have?
2. What is your passenger policy? Pet policy?
3. What is your company’s turnover rate?
4. What are your company’s safety standards?
5. Is the company publicly or privately owned?

Choose a High-Quality Truck Driving School

Before you line up interviews with potential trucking employers, you must first earn your CDL. The Phoenix Truck Driving Institute team provides our students with a solid foundation for their trucking careers. Our program uses a multi-faceted training approach that combines classroom, range, and on-the-road driving to prepare you for your new profession. We also offer job placement assistance to help you get on the road after graduation.

Contact one of our advisors today to find out how soon you can start your career.

 

Commercial truck drivers have many responsibilities while on the road, from transporting vital freight to loading and unloading cargo to vehicle maintenance. However, perhaps the most important responsibility of truckers is following safety regulations. The trucking industry emphasizes this aspect of the business, allocating nearly $10 billion annually to driver training, rule compliance, technology, and incentive pay, according to a report from the American Trucking Association (ATA). But what makes safety such a high priority? Continue reading to discover four reasons why safety in trucking is so important. 

1. Safety Decreases Truck-Related Accidents

It’s no secret that truck driving can be dangerous if safety isn’t prioritized. However, tractor-trailer crashes have recently decreased by 10%, due in part to the ATA’s emphasis on safety. Although it is virtually impossible to eliminate all trucking accidents, proper driver training on safety techniques, such as defensive driving and driving the speed limit, can help further drop vehicle crash rates.

2. Safety Lowers CSA Scores

Scores associated with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program are crucial for securing new business and improving a company’s image. Higher CSA scores represent an increased risk, whereas lower CSA scores indicate a better safety record. Good drivers know that a company’s CSA score directly reflects on themselves. Any safety violations, regardless of who was at fault, become part of their resume, including five years of crash history and three years of inspections. Prioritizing safety will help lower a company’s CSA score, attracting more high-quality drivers in turn.

3. Safety Improves Driver Retention

As safety becomes more of a concern in the industry, truck drivers are also becoming more selective about which companies they want to work for. Not only does safety attract more drivers, but it helps retain those drivers for longer as well. Truckers are more likely to stay with a company if they feel like their coworkers and superiors prioritize their safety.

4. Safety Saves Money

Another reason safety in trucking is vital is that it helps save money. Safety improvements can reduce company expenses in several areas, such as fines for violations and driver recruiting costs. Safety enhancements can also lower the costs of damage repairs resulting from an accident. A single major commercial motor vehicle accident can cost nearly $60,000, so keeping drivers safe from accidents is a huge cost minimizer. 

Learn Safe Driving Habits at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute

You must learn safe driving habits if you want to work for a trucking company that prioritizes safety. With a combination of classroom, range, and real-world training, the commercial driver’s license program at Phoenix Truck Driving School teaches students the skills necessary to be safe and successful drivers. 

If you want more information about our CDL training programs, contact one of our advisors today.