Time management is key to maximizing hours of service
With the mandate for electronic logging devices (ELDs), the method of recording a driver’s hours of service (HOS) has changed a lot. However, the principles
Cliff Abbott
- About Cliff Abbott
- Cliff Abbott is an experienced commercial vehicle driver and owner-operator who still holds a CDL in his home state of Alabama. In nearly 40 years in trucking, he’s been an instructor and trainer and has managed safety and recruiting operations for several carriers. Having never lost his love of the road, Cliff has written a book and hundreds of songs and has been writing for The Trucker for more than a decade.
Posts by Cliff Abbott
Reducing fuel costs: Aftermarket aero products finding wider acceptance in trucking
It’s no secret that trucking gets a lot of attention for its use of petroleum and production of greenhouse gases. Cleaner-burning fuels, exhaust aftertreatments, and
Growing backlog: Long wait times for tractors and trailers hold back carrier growth
Let’s imagine: The trucking business is so good that rates are at or near record levels and shippers are competing for available trucks. It’s a
Salute to veterans: New Jersey carrier honors U.S. veterans with specially designed graphics
Every carrier is engaged in the business of trucking, but one Lincoln, New Jersey-based carrier is using its equipment to honor those who have served
Personal safety: Preparation and awareness are key to protecting yourself on the road
Trucking can be a hazardous job, both on and off the road. Many drivers are exposed to dangers after they leave the cab. Drivers often
Need for income results in successful team career for Jill and Dean Coulter
BROOKLET, Ga. — For some drivers, success in trucking is a dream they pursue. For others, trucking helps them realize other dreams. For Jill and
Continued shortage of critical parts: Difficulty obtaining components hampers Class 8 sales
After a June increase, sales of Class 8 trucks on the U.S. market dropped sharply in July to the lowest level since February, according to
Prepare for inspections to avoid delays, violations during CVSA’s Brake Safety Week
GREENBELT, Md. — The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) would like drivers to stop in for an inspection of their vehicle’s braking system. If you
Dash cams for fleets: Even for small fleets, in-cab video provides safety, training options
One trucking truth is that the larger your business grows, the less direct control you’ll have over it. Some truck owners are content to remain
The law of supply and demand: Good times continue for trucking, but could be slowing
Freight levels moderated in June, but only by a little, according to reports from several sources. Supply chain issues, like shortages of semiconductors (silicon chips)
Technology on the road: Electronics make the job easier but can be less safe
Electronics have revolutionized modern vehicles. Today, drivers have access to more information than ever before, thanks to technologies such as GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and specialized
2021 Rotella SuperRigs features stunning trucks, lots of camaraderie
HAMPSHIRE, Ill. — Shell Rotella SuperRigs was back in a big way July 29-31 at Love’s Travel Center in Hampshire, Illinois. While the 2020 event,
Regulation process: Drivers have rights and responsibilities when new rules are made
Everyone knows the trucking industry is governed by government rules and regulations. Most drivers are familiar with a long list of acronyms representing federal agencies
Trailer doors present a danger many drivers don’t think about
You’ve carefully planned your trip and arrived without a hitch, remaining vigilant about safety. The trip went without a hitch and you’re ready to back
Parts shortages, record material prices keep Class 8 truck sales ‘mushy’
Parts shortages and dwindling inventories are holding back what should be a robust new Class 8 truck market, according to Kenny Vieth, president and senior
Use available tools and resources to understand freight rates
Many drivers begin their trucking careers working for a carrier that pays by the mile. Some pay different rates for loaded and empty miles, but
Increase the chances of finding safe parking with planning and awareness
While the battle rages in Washington over what should be included in the latest infrastructure bill, drivers can rest assured that some version will eventually
Preparation, attention to detail help inspections go smoothly
Nobody likes them. Drivers go out of their way to avoid them, some changing their routes or schedules — or even taking time off —
Local, over-the-road, regional routes each offer pros, cons for drivers
Trucking provides a variety of opportunities for drivers, and each type of job has its own pros and cons. Many drivers begin their career with
Freight volumes down slightly but tight capacity keeps rates high
Shipping volumes are picking up for rail, ship and pipeline but declining slightly for trucking, according to reports from several industry sources. Cass Information Systems