B.W. Mitchum Trucking

Hello and welcome to the BW Mitchum Trucking blog! We’re bringing you the latest information on topics that matter to commercial truck drivers. BW Mitchum has been a leader in customized intermodal and domestic transportation, while still maintaining the core principles you expect from a 3rd generation family business. We pride ourselves on our reliable and personalized customer service, and provide whatever logistical support customers may need in addition to transportation, including warehousing, trans loading, and brokerage services. We are committed to continuing to provide the highest-quality transport services as we continue to grow.

In our last post, we talked about how to start a career as a commercial truck driver. There are a few important things you should know about the process, so that you can get started on the right foot. This includes getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL), taking an exam, and more. If you are interested in getting started with your career as a commercial truck driver, we encourage you to check out our last post!

Today, we’ll be getting honest about commercial truck driving. When people think about a truck driving career, what do they think about? For many people, they think about the feeling of being free, out on the road and sightseeing. While a career in commercial truck driving will allow you to travel and see new places, it is definitely not all fun and games. Let’s take a look at the reality of trucking!

One of the most common expectations of truck driving is sightseeing. As mentioned above, you will be able to see new cities, states, and other parts of the country that you may not have had the chance to go to before. However, the extent of which you will get to sightsee is limited. The reality of truck driving is that you will be spending the majority of your time driving. This leaves little time to actually explore and sightsee– In fact, most of the sightseeing you’ll be doing is from your window as you make your way down the freeway. Since you’ll be delivering loads in a timely manner, there probably won’t be too much time to check out landmarks or explore downtown areas. Plus, you can’t really take a semi truck into tourist areas like the Grand Canyon, anyway. The bottom line? Commercial truck driving is adventurous, unpredictable, and rewarding, but it is not a vacation.

Some people considering a career in commercial truck driving assume it will be similar to traditional jobs where you go to work in the morning and come home in the evening. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Truck drivers spend hours on the road and can be gone for days, or sometimes even weeks at a time. When drivers do get to go home, their hometime is often limited to two days, due to the high demand in the industry. With that being said, it is important to remember that truck driving is not a 9 to 5 or Monday to Friday job– It is often more like a lifestyle. Not only can you be on the road for days at a time, but you must also be prepared for unexpected events, such as inclement weather or shipping delays that can extend your time on the road. Being away from family quite often is something to keep in mind if you are choosing this career path.

In order to become a truck driver, you must get your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Sounds simple, right? Well, it’s actually a little more complicated. In order to get your CDL, you must go to a truck driving school or community college. This training takes about seven weeks on average, but can take as long as six months, depending on the school you choose. Not only will you have to take and pass courses and a driving test, but this doesn’t come for free. Unfortunately, getting your CDL can be a bit costly. Most schools will charge an application fee and a skills test fee, on top of the costs of the actual courses and training. Truck driving school can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $9,000 on average. However, some trucking companies offer paid CDL programs, apprenticeships, or tuition reimbursement. The total cost will depend on the truck driving school you choose, and whether it is public or private, with private schools being more costly. 

With all of that being said, there is a common misconception that anyone can be a truck driver. This is partially true: Anyone can become a truck driver with proper training. However, truck driving is not for everyone. If you are not willing to put in hard work, obey road laws, adhere to rules and regulations, be committed to handling freight safely and efficiently, and be willing to spend a lot of time away from home, then trucking probably isn’t for you. 

Additionally, some people think that being a truck driver is easy. Most truck drivers would probably laugh at this statement! Being a commercial truck driver is far from easy– It is not as simple as getting your driver’s license, and truck drivers do a lot more than just sitting in a truck and driving. They are constantly on the move, transporting, loading and unloading freight, and making sure to do it in a timely manner, all while traveling safely. Truck driving requires sitting for long periods of time, which can lead to issues, including back pain and other muscle problems. Plus, they have to have a pristine driving record!

As you can see, the realities of commercial truck driving differ from what many people may think! Is truck driving the right career for you? We hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you are looking for a job as a commercial truck driver, we hope you’ll consider driving for BW Mitchum! You can learn more about our career opportunities here. We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. If you are currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry, we are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Thank you for reading!

Hello and welcome to the BW Mitchum Trucking blog! We’re bringing you the latest information on topics that matter to commercial truck drivers. BW Mitchum has been a leader in customized intermodal and domestic transportation, while still maintaining the core principles you expect from a 3rd generation family business. We pride ourselves on our reliable and personalized customer service, and provide whatever logistical support customers may need in addition to transportation, including warehousing, trans loading, and brokerage services. We are committed to continuing to provide the highest-quality transport services as we continue to grow.

In our last post, we discussed the pros and cons of being a company truck driver. Being an employee of a trucking company has its perks, including job security, steady paychecks, benefits, and more. There are also some downsides, such as less flexibility. But ultimately, we think there are far more pros than cons! If you are interested in learning more about whether being a company truck driver is right for you, we encourage you to check out our last post!

Today, we’ll be discussing how to start a career as a commercial truck driver. If you’ve decided that being a truck driver is the career path for you, you may be wondering how to get started. There are a few important things you should know about the process, so that you can get started on the right foot. If you want to learn more, you’ve come to the right place– We’re here to help you get started! 

First and foremost, you’ll need a standard license to drive a car. (If you can’t operate a car, you probably can’t operate a large truck!) But did you know that you need a separate license to operate a truck or commercial motor vehicle? This is called a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and you’ll need to meet certain requirements to get one. For example, you must be 18 to obtain your CDL, but many trucking companies won’t hire you unless you are 21 years old or over. This is because truck drivers under 21 can only drive within one state, while those over 21 can cross state lines, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements. 

There are also different types of CDLs. Let’s take a look:

• Class A: A Class A CDL is for vehicles with a gross weight of over 26,000 pounds. A trailer must be greater than 10,000 pounds. This can include a semi truck and trailer combo, semi truck and tanker trailer, semi truck and livestock trailer, or semi truck and flatbed trailer.
• Class B: Class B vehicles have a gross weight of over 26,000 pounds. They include delivery trucks, various box trucks, dump trucks with small trailers, school buses, and city buses.
• Class C: Class C vehicles are a single vehicle with a gross weight of under 26,000 pounds, a vehicle pulling a trailer under 10,000 pounds, or a vehicle carrying 16 or more passengers. This includes buses, tanker trucks, hazmat vehicles, and double and triple trailers.

It is best to do research on these types of licenses before choosing one. The Class A CDL is generally a top choice because it holds a greater range of jobs and flexibility. 

How do you obtain a CDL?

In order to get your CDL, you should first obtain your commercial learner’s permit (CLP), which will allow you to practice driving semi-trucks. Some truck driving schools require you to get a CLP before enrolling. Others will help you obtain your CLP while you attend class. It is helpful to choose a truck driving school first, so that you know what requirements you’ll need to meet. Once you have chosen a school, you will have to attend a program where you will receive classroom instruction as well as training and behind-the-wheel experience. This training can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the school you choose. For example, there are company-sponsored schools, community college programs, or private CDL schools. Again, it is best to do research on these schools and find a reputable one that is a good fit for you and your lifestyle. At the end of your program, you will need to complete and pass an exam and skills test in order to obtain your CDL. This exam will generally consist of:

• Vehicle inspection: Checking things such as the braking system, tires, engine compartment. 
• Basic controls: Ensuring that you know how to do things such as parallel parking, alley docking, straight line and offset backing.
• Road test: An evaluation of your awareness, overall command of the vehicle, use of mirrors and turn signals, and ability to brake and accelerate normally.

Additionally, you will need to pass a DOT medical exam before obtaining your CDL. This exam will test your vision and hearing, check your blood pressure, check your medical records, and more to make sure that you are in the best possible shape to perform your job as a truck driver efficiently. If you pass, you’ll get your CDL and be able to start looking for jobs!

Once you have your CDL, you’ll want to look for a trucking company that seems like a good fit for you and your lifestyle. You’ll want to ask yourself a few questions and see if the company aligns with your answers and career goals. For example: Do you want a specific home time? Are you okay with being away from home for days at a time? Where do you want to be in your career in a few years? Answering these questions will help you determine if a company is right for you. 

There are plenty of truck driving jobs in the U.S. In fact, there is a shortage of truck drivers, so you don’t need to be concerned about a lack of work! As long as you have done the training, obtained your CDL, passed a background check, and have a clean driving record, you should have no problem finding a truck driving job. 

As you can see, being a commercial truck driver is a rewarding career with many opportunities for growth, and you get to see many different areas of the country for a living! If you want to become a commercial truck driver, you should start off strong by choosing a reputable school or program that will provide you with the skills necessary to thrive in the industry. If you are looking for a job as a commercial truck driver, we hope you’ll consider driving for BW Mitchum! You can learn more about our career opportunities here. We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. If you are currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry, we are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Thank you for reading!

Hello and welcome to the BW Mitchum Trucking blog! We’re bringing you the latest information on topics that matter to commercial truck drivers. BW Mitchum has been a leader in customized intermodal and domestic transportation, while still maintaining the core principles you expect from a 3rd generation family business. We pride ourselves on our reliable and personalized customer service, and provide whatever logistical support customers may need in addition to transportation, including warehousing, trans loading, and brokerage services. We are committed to continuing to provide the highest-quality transport services as we continue to grow.

In our last post, we continued a discussion about exercising on the road. Finding time to exercise may seem difficult when on the road, but your health should never take a back seat! We discussed some of the risks that come with sitting for prolonged periods of time, as well as benefits of exercise, and some easy exercises that can be done on the road. If you are interested in learning more, be sure to check out part one as well!

Today, we’ll be discussing some of the pros and cons of driving a commercial truck driver as an employee of a company. If you are a newly-licensed CDL driver trying to decide whether to work as an employee (or company driver), or an independent contractor, you may find this post helpful. We want to help you make the best choice for you. In this blog, we’ll be talking about the pros and cons of driving a commercial truck as an employee, or company driver. Let’s get started!

Why is driving a commercial truck as a company employee better than driving as an independent contractor?

Job security

When you drive as an independent contractor, you have a lot more flexibility, but you also have less of a guarantee of continued work. That’s why job security is one of the major reasons that drivers choose to become company employees. As an employee, you will have the certainty that the company you are driving for will give you work first. If your first concern is making sure that you always have work, driving as a company employee may be the best fit for you.

No maintenance costs

As an employee, you won’t have to worry about the maintenance costs associated with driving a commercial vehicle. Since you will be driving a company-owned truck, the company you are working for will be responsible for all vehicle maintenance. By driving as an employee, you can also avoid other related business expenses, as those responsibilities will fall on the company you are employed by. Most of the necessary insurances will be paid by the company, as well as certain licenses and other fees, and even fuel costs. You’ll have less stress on the job knowing that those expenses are taken care of.

No start-up costs

Driving as an owner-operator has a lot of advantages, but it can be difficult to get started because of the cost barriers. Purchasing your own commercial vehicle is a huge expense, and often requires a lease, which may not be an option for everyone. There are also certain licenses that you will need to obtain before starting. In some states, you can take your CDL tests without any prior training or education–however, in some states (including South Carolina) it is required that you take a CDL driver’s training course before taking your CDL licensing test. Consider all of these costs before deciding whether to become an employee driver or an owner-operator. You may find that the costs outweigh the benefits, but for some drivers, the expenses are prohibitive and a deciding factor.

Steady paychecks

At the end of the day, we’re all working to make money. Although owner-operators can often get paid at a higher rate, employees have a steadier rate of pay. Sometimes knowing exactly what each paycheck will look like is preferable. If it is important to you that you have the security of a consistent paycheck, working as a company employee may be the best choice for you!

Benefits

When you think of employment benefits, what comes to mind first? You probably think of health insurance, right? Health insurance is certainly one of the most important benefits, and paying your entire policy out of pocket can be expensive. A good insurance plan covered in part by your employer can be a major deciding factor in choosing where you will work. So it only makes sense that some drivers will choose to work as a company employee in order to take advantage of the health insurance benefits offered by the company. However, health insurance is not the only employment benefit to consider.

A few other common employee benefits include life insurance, dental insurance, retirement contributions, and paid medical leave. You should also consider benefits like paid time off, vacation days, and paid holidays. You may want to ask about employment benefits at a few of the companies you are considering before you choose whether to drive as an employee or an owner-operator. 

Schedule stability

If you want a flexible schedule, or more control over your schedule, you may prefer to drive as an owner-operator. However, if you prefer to work in a consistent environment with a stable work schedule, driving as a company employee may be the best fit for you! You may not have the opportunity to choose which days you work, or choose your home time, but you’ll know that the hours will be steady–and for many drivers, that is preferred.

What are the cons of driving a commercial vehicle as a company employee?

Less flexibility

The flipside of the stability you’ll get from driving as a company employee is that your job will be much less flexible. You’ll have to follow a set schedule, and will have less opportunity to request the schedule you want. If you have a complicated family life, or just value certain schedule preferences, you may want to consider whether working as a company driver is actually the right fit for you.

Less control over equipment

Driving as a company employee means you won’t have to worry about purchasing your own equipment. However, the downside of this option is that you won’t have a say in the equipment that the company gives you. You may have to drive a truck that doesn’t have the amenities that you prefer. You may even have to drive a stick-shift truck rather than an automatic. If having control over the equipment you use is important to you, consider becoming an owner-operator instead!

More rules (company guidelines)

Independent contractors are able to make a lot of their own rules (within reasonable limits), but company-employed drivers will have to follow every rule set by their employers. For instance, you may have more uniform guidelines, or other rules about how you execute your tasks. Be sure to consider whether you are okay with the guidelines you may have to follow before you decide to become an employee of a company.

Less earning potential

If your biggest concern is earning the largest paycheck possible, working as a company employee may not be your best option. However, it is important to consider that the lower pay that you will receive as an employee will be balanced out by the employment benefits that your employer will offer you. In terms of earning potential, the best choice depends on your personal life and financial circumstances. You may want to consider speaking with a financial advisor before making a decision.

Less negotiating power

Is it important to you that you have the ability to negotiate pay, schedule, and other aspects of your job? If so, you may find that driving as an owner-operator is a better fit for you than driving as a company employee. On the other hand, if you prefer not to worry about negotiating the best outcome, you may prefer to drive as an employee, so that you don’t have to think about negotiating!

No work-related tax deductions

The ability to claim work expenses is one of the greatest benefits of working as an independent contractor. Sometimes as an employee there are expenses that you still get stuck with but can’t write off on your taxes. You should always ask a potential employer about the expenses you’ll be expected to incur before you begin employment. However, these small expenses may be worth it for you in order to avoid the tax complications that come with working as an independent contractor.

So, is driving as a company employee the right choice for you?

Choosing whether to become an owner-operator or drive as a company employee is a major decision. Take your time and examine the pros and cons of both options before you decide. Maybe you’ll decide to try out both before you settle into a permanent career path. 

If you’re ready to make your decision, we’re hiring! We hope you’ll consider driving for BW Mitchum as either an owner-operator or an employee. You can learn more about our career opportunities here. We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. If you are currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry, we are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Thank you for reading!

Today, we’ll be continuing a previous discussion about exercising on the road. We’ve all heard that exercise is important to our overall health, but finding time to exercise may seem difficult when on the road. However, your health should never take a back seat! As a commercial truck driver, it is important that you take care of yourself and keep yourself in the best shape possible, so that you can do your job properly and to the best of your ability. If you’re interested in learning more about how to exercise on the road, stick around! Let’s get started.

As a quick recap of our last post about exercise, there are risks that come with sitting for long periods of time. Sitting for long periods of time, whether at a desk or behind the wheel, can lead to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess body fat around the waist. A joint study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute For Occupational Safety and Health found that truck drivers showed increased rates of obesity and conditions such as diabetes. To avoid these risks, it is important that you make time to exercise, even when on the road! Exercise also has a variety of other benefits, including:

• Strengthening your bones and muscles
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing chronic health conditions
• Improving overall mood
• Improving circulation
• Boosting energy
• Promoting better sleep

Ideally, anyone sitting for long periods should get up at least every 30 minutes to stretch, but that is not always possible when you are a truck driver on a tight schedule. However, exercise on the road can be done when you pull over to rest, eat, or even get gas for your vehicle.

Lunges

Lunges are a fairly simple exercise that can be done just about anywhere– When you pull into a rest area or a parking lot, for example. This exercise works out most of the muscles in your lower body and targets key muscles such as glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. Lunges work out one side of your body at a time, which helps you improve your overall stability.

To do lunges properly, stand in a split stance, with your right foot about 2 to 3 feet in front of your left foot. Keep your torso straight and then bend your knees, resting your hands on your waist while lowering your body towards the floor. Continue to lower your body until your back knee is a few inches from the ground. Evenly distribute your weight between both legs. Then, slowly push yourself back up into the starting position. You should keep your weight on the heel of your front foot. As you perform this exercise, you may find it beneficial to keep your chin up and keep your head facing forward. Additionally, there are different variations of lunges that you can progress to as you get comfortable, such as reverse lunges or jumping lunges. 

Crunches

Crunches are a classic core exercise that works your abdominal muscles, which are part of your core. Your core is the central part of your body, including your pelvis, lower back, hips, and stomach. The muscles in all of these areas help stabilize your body. Crunches can be done in most places, such as in the cab of your truck, or wherever you are able to lay down– It may be helpful to get a yoga or exercise mat to bring with you.

In order to do crunches properly, you must first lie down on your back. Plant your feet on the floor, about hip-width apart. Bend your knees and put your arms across your chest in an “X” shape. Inhale before lifting your upper body off the ground, exhaling as you do so, while keeping your head and neck relaxed. Inhale while returning to the starting position. Remember that you should be utilizing your core– Do not try lifting your upper body by using your neck. This can increase your risk of injury. Additionally, take your time with this exercise, moving in a slow and controlled manner. Moving too fast will not engage your core muscles. 

Shoulder Shrugs

Shoulder shrugs are a great and simple exercise that can be done while sitting– Even while sitting in your truck! In fact, this may be the easiest exercise on our list. This exercise is great for strengthening your neck, shoulder, and upper arm muscles. Additionally, this exercise releases tension in your neck and shoulders, which is especially important if you sit for long periods. Shoulder shrugs mainly target your trapezius muscles, which are located on each side of your neck. Strengthening these muscles help you maintain proper posture and stabilize your neck and upper back.

To perform shoulder shrugs, put your arms at your sides and raise your shoulders up towards your ears as high as you can. Do this slowly, however, so that you can feel the resistance of your muscles. Hold this position for a few seconds and then release. Repeat this for as long as you would like. Shoulder shrugs can be done sitting or standing up. If you want to make it more challenging, you can incorporate weight lifting into the exercise!

As you can see, these are just a few easy ways to incorporate exercise on the road to your daily routine. If you are looking to take it to the next level, there are a few pieces of equipment you may consider purchasing and taking with you on the road. A great example is to incorporate dumbbells and weights. These are used for many exercises including strength training. You may also consider purchasing a resistance band, kettlebells, portable pull-up bar, or jump rope to challenge yourself.

Exercise on the Road and Stay Healthy

Regular physical activity is great for your overall health! Here at B.W. Mitchum, we encourage our drivers to take care of themselves, and our staff works together to ensure a positive environment. In our last post, we discussed how to reduce stress on the road. Being a truck driver comes with unique challenges and can be stressful. You’ll be dealing with traffic, different weather conditions, and long hours. It can be a lot to handle, and can contribute to stress. Minimizing chronic stress can lead to a happier and healthier life. Interested in learning about ways you can reduce stress on the road? Be sure to check out our last post! We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers.

Are you currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry? We are always looking for new talent to add to our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply to one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!

Today, we’ll be discussing ways of reducing stress while on the road. Being a truck driver comes with unique challenges and can be stressful. You’ll be dealing with traffic, different weather conditions, and long hours. It can be a lot to handle for some, and this can contribute to stress. Minimizing chronic stress can lead to a happier and healthier life. Luckily, there are things you can do to make sure you keep the stress at bay while you are on the road! 

Relax!

One of the most important things you can do to reduce stress is to relax. This can be done however you see fit: Go for a walk, listen to music, watch a movie, or even meditate! There are plenty of options. Finding a relaxing activity to keep you occupied can help clear your mind. A popular activity among truck drivers is listening to podcasts. There are countless podcasts out there, covering just about any topic you can imagine— True crime, comedy, history… The list goes on! If you enjoy literature, you may opt to listen to audiobooks instead. You can do this while driving or whenever you stop to take a break. If podcasts or audiobooks aren’t your thing, listening to your favorite music can help take your worries away! If you take some time out of each day to tend to yourself, reducing stress and even anxiety. 

Get enough sleep.

We’ve all heard about the importance of adequate sleep— It’s essential to our overall health and well-being! Adequate sleep has been proven to reduce feelings of anxiety and improve your ability to process stress. Additionally, getting a good night’s sleep can boost your mood. Lack of sleep causes your body to release more of the stress hormone known as cortisol, which triggers your body’s fight or flight response to danger. This, of course, can raise your anxiety levels. It is recommended that adults get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night.

As a commercial truck driver, your time to sleep may come at varying hours, and even in the daylight. So, how can you get adequate sleep in your truck? First of all, be sure that you have a comfortable pillow and mattress in the cab of your truck. Comfort is essential when it comes to rest! Additionally, when you stop to get some sleep, try parking away from other trucks if you can. This will increase the likelihood of a peaceful sleep, as you will be away from noise. You may also consider investing in curtains or shades for the windows of your truck, and putting a sunshade over your windshield. This will help block out light, whether it’s from the sun or artificial light. 

Eat healthy. 

A proper diet is essential for our health, but did you know it could help you reduce stress, too? Some foods can counter the impact of stress by lowering blood pressure. Studies have found that people whose diet consists of ultra-processed foods and added sugar are more likely to experience higher perceived stress levels. Eating the right foods will nourish your body and improve your resilience to stress! Nutrients from food can also improve blood flow in the body. Some of the best foods to relieve stress are:

• Oatmeal. This is a complex carbohydrate that reducing stress hormone levels in the brain. It helps release serotonin, a chemical that increases relaxation and calmness.  
• Salmon. Salmon is a fatty fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are oils that help keep cortisol under control while simultaneously regulating adrenaline levels. (If fish isn’t your thing, walnuts and spinach are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.)
• Berries. Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body return blood pressure and cortisol to normal levels. 
• Dark chocolate. Dark chocolate helps reduce cortisol levels. Since dark chocolate is also considered a treat or indulgence, it can also help your brain release serotonin. 

It is also important that you eat regularly to help your brain function at its best! Check out our previous blog about eating healthy on the road for more helpful tips. 

Take your time.

Any commercial truck driver knows the importance of efficiently traveling to and from a destination. With timelines in place, you may feel the need to rush to get to your destination. However, this may make you feel stressed. While it is important to deliver your load on time, it is also important that you take care of yourself and drive safely. Take time to choose the route that will work best for you, and don’t be afraid to make quick stops along the way to stretch, move around, and breathe. See our Truck Route Planning 101 blog for more tips on reducing stress from travel plans.

Exercise.

Exercising is important any time, but this is especially true when on the road. When a person sits for long periods of time they can develop a variety of health conditions, such as high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess body fat around the waist. There can be even more severe side effects, such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot that forms in the leg, and could be deadly.

If those weren’t good enough reasons to get exercising, how about this: Exercise also acts as a stress reliever! Any form of exercise, whether it’s aerobics or yoga, can help you reduce and manage stress. One reason for this is because it increases endorphins, which are the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitters. Ever heard of the phrase “runner’s high”? This is precisely due to the increased release of endorphins that occurs during exercise. But it’s not just running– Virtually any exercise can have the same effect. When you exercise, your mind is focused on the activity. Oftentimes, you will find that you’ve forgotten about the cause of your stress! Regular exercise has also been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Be sure to check out our previous blog on exercising on the road for more tips! 

We Are Here to Help

As you can see, these are just a few ways of reducing stress while on the road. While stress in life is unavoidable, being chronically stressed can negatively impact your health. Here at B.W. Mitchum, we encourage our drivers to take care of themselves, and our staff works together to ensure a positive environment.

In our last blog, we discussed winter driving tips for commercial truck drivers. Operating a large vehicle has a unique set of challenges, especially in the winter months. On snowy or icy roads, you’ll need to adapt your driving style in order to make it to and from your destination safely. We talked about having the right gear, performing a pre-trip inspection, and more. Want to hear about more about winter driving tips? Be sure to check out our last post!

We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. Are you currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry? Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply to join our team! Thank you for reading!

Today, we’ll be discussing winter driving tips for commercial truck drivers. Driving and operating a large vehicle is not as easy as it may seem. It presents unique safety challenges, and it may take some time to get used to. These safety challenges can become even more difficult in winter weather conditions. On snowy or icy roads, you’ll need to adapt your driving style in order to make it to and from your destination safely. Learn more about winter driving tips, and efforts to prevent an accident from happening. Let’s get started!

Have the right gear. 

First and foremost, be aware of the weather forecast in your area, as well as in the area you will be driving to. In order to do this, you’ll want to download a good weather app, or tune into a weather radio. This will help you prepare for the weather conditions you will face. Winter weather is known to bring freezing temperatures, as well as snow and ice. This means you’ll want to make sure you have adequate supplies on hand. This means you’ll want to dress appropriately and bring extra clothing just in case. Dressing in layers is always best, and make sure you bring a jacket that is sufficient for cold temperatures. You’ll also want to bring gloves and a winter hat. 

Other items you want to make sure you have in the cab of your truck include a flashlight, blankets, a bag of sand or salt, snow/ice scrapers and/or brushes, jumper cables, and tire chains. Stock your cab with plenty of water and non-perishable foods in case you stuck for long periods of time. Be sure to check out our previous blog containing a truck driving gear checklist so that you don’t miss any important items!

Always perform a pre-trip inspection.

You should always perform a pre-trip truck inspection, in any weather condition. However, it is arguably even more important to do so in the winter months, for several reasons. First of all, you need to check your tires for wear, pressure, and balance. If truck tires need air or need to be replaced altogether, this could cause trouble encountering icy roads– No traction is an accident waiting to happen. Additionally, you’ll want to check your wiper blades to ensure that they are working properly. Check your fluids and make sure they are not frozen. Top them off if necessary. Do a complete walk-around of the truck and trailer. Take note that nothing is out of place or needs to be repaired. 

You should also be sure that they are free of snow and ice before you depart. Be sure all of the lights on your truck are fully functional, as well as your defrosters. If you have parked your truck in a location where it has snowed overnight, be sure to use a snow brush or scraper to remove any snow or ice from your windshield and all other windows and mirrors so that you will be able to see clearly. Perform a pre-trip inspection every time you are ready to depart to or from a location.

Slow down.

Speeding is never a good thing, especially in snowy or icy conditions. While you should always follow the speed limit, the posted speed limit may be too fast for certain road conditions. Keeping your speed down will help you maintain traction, allowing you more time to react in case of an emergency. If you need to hit your brakes, moving at a slower speed will give you more time to stop. It is important to remember that due to size and weight, a large commercial truck needs more room to come to a complete stop than a normal passenger vehicle like a car. Additionally, the faster you are driving, the longer it will take to come to a complete stop. Going too fast on wet roads can cause you to hydroplane, so it is best to watch your speed to avoid winter driving accidents.

Give yourself extra space.

Speaking of the time it takes to come to a complete stop, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of space to stop if necessary. A normal passenger vehicle like a car generally needs approximately 316 feet to come to a complete stop, while a large commercial truck needs about 526 feet to safely stop. The stopping distance on a wet road is nearly twice the normal stopping distance, and that distance is even greater on icy roads. Leave plenty of room between your truck and the vehicle in front of you in case you need to come to a stop. 

Be cautious of bridges and overpasses.

Bridges, overpasses, and other elevated surfaces freeze faster than the regular road, making them more slippery than other surfaces. Surfaces could contain have black ice, may not be salted, and may not be properly treated to reduce freezing. Exercise extra caution in these areas. You should also be cautious when on entrance or exit ramps, as sharp turns can prove to be dangerous. 

Know when to stop.

The last of our winter driving tips is knowing when to slow down or stop. As a commercial truck driver, you are often on a tight schedule– You have loads to drop off by certain times. However, that does not mean that you should always venture out into a winter storm. If you feel that the weather or road conditions are too dangerous for you to drive in, pull over or find a safe way to exit the roadway and park at a truck stop until the weather clears up and it is safer for you to drive. Tune into a weather radio or check forecasts to know what to expect, and see if they offer any information on current road conditions. Always trust your instincts if you feel that road conditions are unsafe.  Call dispatch and ask if the delivery appointment can be rescheduled.

Safe Driving Is Part of Our Culture

While the weather is out of everyone’s control, following these safe winter driving tips can reduce the risk of accidents. Here at B.W. Mitchum, safety isn’t just something we practice– It’s part of who we are! We have on-call dispatch 24 hours a day, and our drivers, dispatchers, and staff work together to create a culture of safety.

In our last blog, we talked about 6 apps that every truck driver should download. These days, there’s an app for everything, and they can really make your life easier when on the road! We discussed a few of the most popular apps for commercial truck drivers, including apps that help with routing, gas station and fuel rewards, weather apps, and more! All of these can assist driving in difficult conditions. Interested in learning more about these helpful apps? Check out our last post.

We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. Are you seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry? Join our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply to one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!

Today, we’ll be talking about some of the best apps that every truck driver should have downloaded! These days, there’s an app for everything, which means there are plenty of apps out there that can make your life much easier while on the road. Whether you’re new to the job, or maybe you’re a seasoned driver who just hasn’t ventured too much into technology, you may find these apps helpful when it comes to your lifestyle and career. If you’re interested in learning about these recommended apps, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started.

Before we get into today’s topic, we would like to remind you not to use your phone while driving. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) restricts the use of all hand-held devices by drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Only hands-free devices are permitted. With that being said, do not use your cellphone while operating your vehicle– Keep your eyes on the road! Now, let’s get into these essential apps.

1. TruckMap

This free mobile app made specifically for truck drivers offers optimized GPS routes for commercial vehicles. TruckMap also offers turn-by-turn routing and navigation, and can highlight nearby weigh stations, diesel fuel, overnight parking, and rest areas. Within the app, you can customize your truck height and weight, route around truck-forbidden roads and highways, and avoid tolls. The app shows over 600,000 truck facilities, including Walmart, Pilot / Flying J, Love’s, and more. Drivers can also filter locations to find places with daytime or overnight parking, ATMs, restrooms, showers, laundry, and more. TruckMap also shows you local pinpoints within facilities, such as truck entrances and exits and loading docks. With a total of 4.7 stars from over 44,000 ratings, you may want to give TruckMap a try!

2. Pilot Flying J: myRewards Plus

This app, created by Pilot and Flying J, offers a rewards program made specifically for drivers. It helps you save time and money every time you stop at a Pilot or Flying J truck stop and offers exclusive app features and offers. You can earn up to 4 points per gallon, and these points can later be redeemed for parking, showers, food, and drinks. The mobile fueling feature makes the fueling process as touch-free as possible– You can start the diesel pump right from your phone! You can add your preferred card for payment and save it for future use. This is a great feature for extremely hot days, frigid cold nights, or any time you’re simply in a hurry.

The app also has a feature that helps you plan your route, find Pilot and Flying J locations, view fuel prices, and more. You can also reserve a shower right from your cab using the app! The app will send you a notification when your shower is ready, so you don’t have to wait in the store if you don’t want to. If that’s not enough, this app also allows you to reserve parking spaces directly from the app, so you can be assured you have a spot to rest. 

3. Trucker Path

Similar to the first app we discussed, Trucker Path is another one of the many apps designed for truck drivers that helps you find the closest truck stop, available parking, weigh station, fuel stops, and more. The app also offers weather alerts and lets you access real-time traffic conditions. You can also find helpful information and reviews from other truck drivers for over 40,000 truck stops across the United States and Canada. Trucker Path allows you to plan multi-day trips in advance, and also provides custom routes based on your vehicle’s dimensions, so that you can avoid low overpasses and bridges. It’s free to use, but you could update to the premium version if desired. The premium version provides arrival times, and weigh station status predictions, among other features

4. GasBuddy

GasBuddy is a free app that helps you find fuel stations across the country and view gas prices. According to their website, GasBuddy has helped drivers save more than $3 billion by providing real-time gas price information. GasBuddy also has a feature that lets you know when you are wasting fuel. Through the app, you can compare fuel prices from over 15,000 stations to get the best deal. You will also receive alerts when the price of diesel is about to increase, so you can plan ahead and fill up before the price goes up. It also offers a cashback rewards system and a Pay with GasBuddy payments card that offers cents-off per gallon, if you are interested. The app also includes a trip cost calculator, station outage tracker,  and a log to track your fuel purchases. 

5. The Weather Channel

When you’re on the road, the weather can be unpredictable. Weather conditions can significantly impact your route, affect your ability to drive, and change your estimated arrival time. The Weather Channel app provides accurate weather updates no matter where you are! You can track daily forecasts, receive live radar updates, storm alerts, and more. The app can warn you ahead of time when there are severe storms, heavy rain, heat waves, or other extreme weather. This app can help you see how upcoming weather will affect your day. With The Weather Channel app, you can be prepared for any type of weather along your route. 

6. Trucker Tools

The Trucker Tools app is an all-in-one resource that helps with routing, fuel, parking, rest areas, weight scales, and more. It provides information like gas prices and truck stop amenities, as well as load tracking and freight matching. Trucker Tools offers over 17 tools and features to help you easily plan your trip, including a truck stop guide and a routine and fuel optimizer. You can easily find nearby rest areas, Walmart locations, and medical care while using this app! New to the app is the Driver Loyalty Rewards Program, which lets drivers earn points from achieving milestones and building repeat business with preferred brokers. The points can then be redeemed for gift cards at over 200 U.S. retailers. 

As you can see, these are just a few of the many apps out there that can be useful for commercial truck drivers. What apps do you recommend as a truck driver? Let us know!

In our last blog, we discussed everything you need to know about trucking route planning. A well-planned trip is not only profitable, but also eases your stress level and increases your comfort and peace of mind. When you know exactly where you’re going and what you’re doing, you’re bound to feel more confident and relaxed. If you are interested in learning more about trucking route planning, check out our last post!

We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. If you are currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry, we are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply to one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!

In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing tips on how to effectively plan a trucking route. This is inarguably one of the most important aspects of being a commercial truck driver. After all, one of the most important parts of your job is delivering a load on time. Long trips can be strenuous and unpredictable– You never know what could happen out on the road, so it’s best to be as prepared as you can. A well-planned trip is not only profitable, but also eases your stress level and increases your comfort and peace of mind. When you know exactly where you’re going and what you’re doing, you will feel more confident and relaxed. Pre-trip planning helps increase the likelihood of a safe and smooth ride. Interested in learning more about effectively planning a trucking route? Stick around!

First, let’s take a look at some of the problems you may run into if you do not effectively plan your trucking route. These potential consequences can lead to stress and loss of profit, among other things:

• Breaking down with nowhere to go
• Being unable to find rest stops or food
• Running low on fuel
• Covering extra miles due to wrong routes or turns
• Damaging your reputation and/or the reputation of your company

Effectively Plan Your Truck Route

You want to avoid these issues at all costs. Accidents and mistakes happen, but planning your trucking route ahead of time will minimize these risks and help you make your deliveries promptly. Even if you are headed to a destination that you have been to before, you still need to trip plan. Roads and routes change, and so do traffic and weather patterns. A route that you took last week might not be the quickest and most efficient this week. So, how exactly can you plan your trucking route efficiently? 

Look at the big picture.

First, you’ll want to consider the total distance of the trip. Take a look at the overview of the trip and the route options available to decide which one is best for you. The total distance of the trip is not just the total number of miles between your starting point and your destination. You must also account for things that will add more miles and time, such as rest, eating, or bathroom breaks, traffic, road closures, finding rest tops or parking, border crossings, weather conditions, fueling, sleeping, and making deliveries. You should look at the entire route of the trip ahead of time and consider the distance between each planned stop. Then, you can factor in time for things that may further slow you down, such as construction or traffic. 

You want to pay attention to the cities you will be driving through, and the times you will be passing through them. If you drive through a large, bustling city during daylight hours, be prepared for traffic. It’s important to keep in mind that trip planning isn’t just about distance and time– It’s about preparing for the unexpected. For example, if your destination is 6 hours away, be sure to add some extra time into your planned route to account for potential delays, so you don’t have to stress or scramble at the last minute. Additionally, don’t forget to check if your route is crossing time zones! This may mean you need to leave earlier.

Check traffic patterns.

Traffic patterns are the average speed driven by vehicles on specific routes at specific times and days of the week. They can show you if a particular section of road is often congested, which can help you determine which route will be most beneficial for you. There are also specific truck traffic patterns that show the average speed driven by trucks, as they do not typically reach the average speed driven by cars. 

Locate essential services.

When planning a trucking route, you’ll want to locate essential services along the route, such as tire or repair shops. If you run into a mechanical problem at any point during your trip, know where these shops are located. After performing a pre-trip inspection, problems can arise without warning, so you will want to be prepared. In addition to mechanics, locate rest stops, gas stations, places to get food, and even hospitals in case of emergency. When you determine approximately when and where you will need to stop for gas, consider looking online ahead of time. Determine where you can get the cheapest gas so you can get the best deal and save money.

Stock up on extra supplies.

It is always a good idea to keep extra supplies in your truck. These items can include non-perishable food, spare clothing, and other basic essential supplies. Even if you plan for stops or are preparing for a short trip, always be ready for the unexpected. When you are driving through remote areas, and get stuck there, extra supplies will come in handy. Other items you may want to keep in your truck are a flashlight and batteries, a first aid kit, personal hygiene supplies, a cell phone charger, and water. Keep these items well-stocked before you leave for your trip.   

Be aware of the weather.

Check the weekly or daily weather forecast for the areas you will be traveling through on your route as. The weather can be unpredictable or can change at any given moment. Seeing what the weather may be like ahead of time helps you prepare during your truck route planning. For example, you may need to bring extra supplies such as a jacket or gloves. (You may want to keep these in your truck year-round, though, so that you never forget them.) When you pull over or stop at a rest area, check the weather for your location as well as your destination. Remember that weather conditions can also affect traffic and may prolong your trip. 

Practice good communication.

Even if you plan the ins and outs of your trip, unexpected obstacles can still get in the way. Or, sometimes, things go even better than expected. If you find yourself ahead of or behind schedule, communicate with dispatchers and staff. Let them know about any time adjustments that need to be communicated to the customer. In some cases, you may need to communicate with the customer yourself, so be sure to do so. Always pull over before making a phone call. Dispatchers, companies, and customers appreciate the communication!

As you can see, these are just a few of the ways that you can effectively plan your route. Good trucking route planning planning is key to making on-time deliveries. It plays a vital role in your success as a commercial truck driver. We hope you found this article informative! See you back on the blog soon for more insight on topics involving truck drivers. Are you seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry? Join our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply to one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!

Today, we’ll be discussing hobbies for truck drivers. It is no secret that being on the road can be lonely. As a commercial truck driver, you may be on the road for hours or even days at a time. This means you’ll likely have overnight stays or long breaks, and you may find yourself bored. After all, there’s only so much you can do in the cab of your truck. Have you ever thought about picking up a hobby while on the road? Finding a new hobby can be a fun way to spend your downtime and can provide an outlet for creativity. If you’re interested in learning about potential hobbies for truck drivers, you’re in luck– Let’s get started!

1. Photography

One benefit of being a commercial truck driver is that you get to travel. A lot. You get to travel so much, in fact, that you may visit multiple states in a day. This provides a great opportunity for photography! You can capture the beauty of the places you visit and share it with friends, or even with the world. You may consider opening up an Instagram account or a blog to share your photos on. There are a few different avenues you could take with this hobby.

For example, you may choose to take photos of only things that you find interesting, or you may want to capture the daily motions that a truck driver goes through and give viewers a glimpse into your life. If you think your smartphone just doesn’t cut it, you may decide to invest in a higher quality, professional camera. Whatever you decide, you may find that photography is a great way to keep yourself occupied on the road.

2. Learning a new language

Gone are the days of enrolling in school to learn a language. Today, there are a wide variety of free language learning apps available, such as Duolingo, as well as apps that require a paid subscription, if your budget allows. Many apps or other programs are audio-focused, allowing you to practice your new language while you’re on the road by using hands-free technology. And if you’d rather wait for a break, you can sit in your cab or pop in your headphones at a truck stop to practice. Whether you want to learn a new language to communicate with others or just for fun, this is one of the great and educational hobbies for truck drivers to pick up!

3. Collecting

Taking up collecting as a hobby is one way to make being on the road more enjoyable. Think about something relatively easy and straightforward to collect. Some good examples are magnets, postcards, t-shirts, keychains, and other small souvenirs. Since you’ll more than likely be stopping at various truck stops, you should be able to find these items easily.

For example, you can collect one magnet from every state you visit, or one postcard from every city or town. You can even get a different type of item from each place– They don’t all have to be the same! If you’re not into stereotypical souvenirs, you can choose anything you desire, such as teddy bears, spoons, hats, or maybe even novelty socks! Not only will this make life on the road a bit more exciting, but you’ll have great memories to look back on for years to come!

4. Exercise As A Hobby

Exercise is important for everyone, especially truck drivers. Driving for long periods of time can wreak havoc on the body, and exercising can help keep you in the best shape so that you can perform your job efficiently. You can even make a hobby out of it.

For example, try exercising when you take breaks at a truck stop, or before you get back on the road when you wake up in the morning. Start with the simplest of exercises, such as walking or running, and then slowly progress to more intense exercises like squats or jump roping. You can try challenging yourself a little more each day, and make a sort of hobby out of seeing what goals you can attain. Perhaps you want to start by doing 10 minutes of squats, and then add 15 minutes of walking the next day, and then 10 minutes of push-ups. You can also research different exercises that can be done while on the road and incorporate them into your routine. Check out our previous blog about exercising on the road for more ideas!

5. Starting a YouTube channel

Have you ever thought about being a YouTuber? If you’re comfortable being on camera, it might not be a bad idea. There are approximately 2.1 billion monthly active users on YouTube from all around the world and more than 800 million videos. Which is why we included it in our list of hobbies for truck drivers. With that being said, you never know who you might connect with. You may consider starting a channel where you document your daily life as a truck driver, share tips and tricks that may be helpful to other drivers, or just share interesting things you come across on the road. You can even document your collecting journey if you took that up as a hobby, too! There are so many possibilities, and it gives you a chance to be creative.

6. Listening to audiobooks or podcasts

There are thousands and thousands of audiobooks and podcasts out there across a wide variety of streaming platforms. This means there are hours upon hours worth of things to listen to. If you enjoy reading books, audiobooks are a great way to get your fill, all while your eyes are on the road! And if books aren’t really your thing, there are so many podcasts out there that you are bound to find something of interest. From true crime and comedy to interviews and health and fitness-focused podcasts, there is truly something for everyone. And with many podcasts having a large number of episodes, you’ll never get bored! If you’re not comfortable listening to audiobooks or podcasts while driving, you can always listen while you take breaks or as you wind down to sleep in your cab. 

So? What will you choose as your next hobby while on the road?

These are just a few of the possibilities when it comes to picking up a hobby on the road. This not only gives you a way to pass the time and occupy yourself, but also allows you to use your creativity. Have you started any hobbies as a truck driver? Let us know!

In our previous blog, we went over a truck driver gear checklist. While you are on the road, the cab of your truck is essentially your home. This means you’ll want to make sure you always have items on hand that you will need, even in case of emergency. You never know what might happen on the road, so it’s always best to be prepared! If you are interested in finding out what items should be on your personal checklist, be sure to check out our last post!

We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. Are you currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry? We are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply for one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!

Hello and welcome to the BW Mitchum Trucking blog! We’re bringing you the latest information on topics that matter to commercial truck drivers. BW Mitchum has been a leader in customized intermodal and domestic transportation, while still maintaining the core principles you expect from a 3rd-generation family business. We pride ourselves on our reliable and personalized customer service and provide whatever logistical support customers may need in addition to transportation, including warehousing, trans loading, and brokerage services. We are committed to continuing to provide the highest-quality transport services as we continue to grow. 

In our previous blog, we discussed some common mistakes that new truck drivers make. Some new truck drivers dive into the profession with a bit too much ambition and find themselves in predicaments. We talked about mistakes such as driving too fast, forgetting about your trailer, and not checking everything before you leave for your trip. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to check out our last post!

Today, we’ll be going over all of the gear you will need as a commercial truck driver. While you are on the road, the cab of your truck is essentially your home. You’ll be spending the majority of your time in your truck, so you want to make sure you have everything that you could possibly need! This includes items that you may not use very often, but you’d rather not be caught without. Like they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry! If you are interested in learning about all of the gear you should keep in your cab, you’re in the right place. Let’s get right into it.

As a commercial truck driver, life on the road is demanding and can be challenging. You never know what you might run into, which is why it’s always best to be prepared. Of course, you want your hauling journey to be as comfortable as possible so that you can get your job done efficiently and in a timely manner. Having all the right gear can certainly help you do just that. It can also be easy to forget things, so we recommend making a complete checklist of your own and utilizing it before every trip! 

First and foremost, you want to make sure you have essential items. These are items that you use on a daily basis, such as clothing, toiletries, and food. When it comes to clothing, you want to make sure that you bring enough clothes for the duration of your trip. How many days will you be gone? Make sure to bring clothing for each day, plus a few extras just in case they get dirty or otherwise uncomfortable. The type of clothing you bring will likely depend on your destination. What is the weather expected to be like? Be sure to check the upcoming forecast– You wouldn’t want to be stuck in cold temperatures without warm clothes. 

Some drivers may choose to keep weather-specific clothing items in their cab year-round, just in case of emergency. This is a personal preference and is entirely up to you. Here are some of the basic clothing items and accessories you may want to bring along with you on the road:

• Shirts
• Pants
• Underwear
• Sneakers and boots
• Socks
• Jackets and/or sweatshirts
• Hats
• Gloves
• Sunglasses
• Sleepwear 

You may also want to bring a laundry bag– Many truck stops have laundry washing facilities, or you may choose to use a laundromat. In any case, you may also want to bring your own laundry detergent.

Believe it or not, toiletries are sometimes overlooked. Although you use most of these items every day, you may be so focused on getting on the road that you forget. This means you may have to buy some of these items at truck stops, and that can be pricey. Because of this, many truck drivers prefer to pack their own toiletries so they can stay feeling fresh and clean on the road. As a commercial truck driver, being so busy and on the road most of the time can cause you to put hygiene on the back burner. However, keeping up with hygiene on the road can lead to a boost in confidence and good first impressions! It is important for you to take care of yourself so that you can do your job efficiently. Here are some of the toiletries you may want to bring with you:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Mouthwash
• Deodorant
• Razor and shaving cream
• Wet wipes
• Hair brush or comb
• Shower bag
• Shampoo 
• Bar of soap
• Towel and washcloth
• Shower sandals
• Toilet paper
• Any prescription medication you will need
• Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol 
• Moisturizing lotion
• Lip balm
• Menstrual products (for female truck drivers)

Today, most truck stops have designated bathroom and shower areas for truck drivers to freshen up while on the road. Some of these stops will provide you with shampoo and soap, but you may feel more comfortable bringing your own. Additionally, if the stop you choose does not provide these items, you’ll have to buy them, which can add up over time. It also may be worth bringing a couple of extras of some of these items, just in case.

Food is arguably one of the most important items to carry with you on the road. You can plan times to stop for meals along your route, but sometimes things don’t always go as planned. With that in mind, it is important to keep some food, drinks, and snacks in the cab of your truck. Truck drivers are prone to developing a variety of health issues, including obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which can be attributed to an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. We strongly encourage you to stock up on some healthy snacks! Here are some food items you may want to consider bringing:

• Granola bars
• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Water and other beverages that do not contain sugar
• Nuts and seeds
• Jerky 
• Energy bars
• Trail mix
• Peanut butter

These are just a few choices, of course, but you’ll want to stick to simple foods that are ready-to-eat and require little to no preparation. Depending on the foods you decide to bring, such as produce items, you may want to invest in a small cooler to keep in the cab of your truck to keep the items fresh. Additionally, you can look for foods that can be heated up easily in a microwave, such as oatmeal or instant rice. 

Besides the everyday essentials, you’ll want to bring emergency supplies as well. You never know what can happen on the road. In a worst-case scenario, you may be left to fend for yourself for a day or two. In case of emergency, you’ll want to make sure you have these items on hand:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Blankets/Emergency blankets
• Pocket knife
• Non-perishable foods
• Extra water
• Toolkit
• Flares
• Paper map/atlas

You should also keep a toolbox for trucking emergencies. This should include tools such as pliers, zip ties, a screwdriver, wrench set, and brake cleaner. 

In addition to these emergency items, you’ll want to have a complete first aid kit for both minor and more serious injuries. Your first aid kit should include the following:

• Adhesive bandages 
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic wipes
• Medical gloves
• Gauze rolls and pads
• Adhesive tape
• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Rubber tourniquet
• Instant cold packs

Remember, this is not a definitive list of items– You can add to your first aid kit as you see fit. You never know when you may need them, whether it’s for you or a fellow driver. 

Now that you’ve covered the basics, it’s time to think about some other items you may need or want, especially when it comes to keeping yourself occupied during a break. Again, these items can vary from person to person, but you may want to bring:

• Phone charger (and an extra one)
• Portable charger or power pack for smartphones
• Headphones
• Laptop or tablet
• Books, including puzzle or activity books
• Magazines or newspapers

The bottom line is: Bring whatever will keep you occupied on breaks or overnight stops. If you have a hobby, such as drawing, bring whatever supplies you need to do that on the road!

As you can see, a large part of being a commercial truck driver is being prepared! Unexpected things can happen on the road, and you don’t want to be caught without an item you need. We recommend creating and printing out a list of essential items and going through your list each time you make a trip, whether you are going to or from a destination. We hope you found this article informative, and we hope to see you back on the blog soon for more tips and insight on topics involving truck drivers. If you are currently seeking new opportunities in the commercial trucking industry, we are always interested in adding new talent to our team! Visit our opportunities page to learn more about our requirements and apply for one of our open positions. Thank you for reading!