Smart Moves for New Truckers: Gear, Loads, Fuel & Tech Tips

by hervy
(United States)

The sources offer several pieces of advice particularly relevant for new truckers.

One key area of advice focuses on **leveraging technology** to make trucking easier. For new truckers who may be navigating the industry for the first time, embracing the right technological tools can significantly reduce stress and improve efficiency. This includes:
* **ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices):** Instead of fighting the mandatory ELDs, new truckers should learn to use their features to plan smarter breaks, get warnings about potential Hours of Service (HOS) violations, understand their driving trends, and maintain clean logs for DOT inspections. Using ELD platforms with mobile apps and smart alerts can help avoid surprise violations without constant screen monitoring.
* **Smartphone Apps:** A smartphone can become a "dispatch center" with the right apps. New truckers should consider using apps like DAT One or TruckSmarter for finding loads (especially for owner-operators), Trucker Path for finding truck stops, parking, and weigh stations, and CamScanner for managing paperwork like Bills of Lading (BOLs), receipts, and invoices digitally. Avoiding manual processes for tasks like checking fuel prices by using apps is also recommended.
* **Dash Cams:** Investing in a dash cam that records in HD, uploads to the cloud, and has impact sensors and GPS stamps is presented as a crucial form of driver protection. Footage from a dash cam can be invaluable in case of accidents or false claims, potentially saving a new trucker's license and income.

Another significant area of advice for new truckers revolves around **finding profitable loads**. The sources emphasize that new drivers often face challenges with "shady brokers, bottom-barrel rates, and gatekeeping dispatchers". Key strategies for new truckers to find better loads include:
* **Knowing Where to Look (and Avoid):** New truckers should start with reputable load boards like DAT One (which has filters for new Motor Carriers - MCs) and TruckSmarter (which offers free instant offers and fuel discounts). If leased onto a company, dispatch should be a primary source for initial loads. It's advised to avoid Facebook "hotshot" groups with potentially fake brokers, low-paying Amazon Relay loads as a primary source, and brokers who demand extensive operating history when a trucker is just starting. Looking for loads that explicitly state "new authority okay" is a helpful tip for those running under their own DOT.
* **Chasing Profit, Not Just Miles:** A common mistake for new truckers is focusing solely on long mileage, assuming it equates to good pay. The advice is to prioritize short to mid-hauls with strong reload potential, freight lanes near major cities or intermodal hubs, and round-trip planning over just one-way outbound hauls. Securing two $800 regional loads with guaranteed reloads is often better than a single $1,200 load with no backhaul.
* **Building Broker Relationships:** Even as rookies, new truckers are encouraged to actively communicate with brokers by calling rather than just emailing. Introducing themselves, being honest, and inquiring about frequently posted lanes can help identify "lane loyal" brokers who may offer consistent loads once trust is established. While the initial rates might not be ideal, consistent and reliable service can lead to better-paying, pre-booked loads in the future.
* **Learning the Lanes:** Experienced drivers understand the importance of knowing the freight flow in their operating regions. By figuring out where freight originates and where it's going, new truckers can position themselves for more consistent work.

Beyond these specific areas, the sources also touch upon other relevant advice for new truckers. It's important to **stay informed about the trucking industry** and how economic and political events can affect drivers. The sources also highlight the importance of **fueling strategically** to maximize profits, which is crucial for all truckers, especially those just starting out and potentially operating on tighter margins. New truckers should use apps to compare fuel prices, consider discount fuel cards (while being mindful of fees and networks), and understand the impact of IFTA and state fuel taxes on their net fuel costs.

Overall, the advice for new truckers in the sources emphasizes a blend of embracing technology to streamline operations, being strategic in finding profitable freight, building relationships, and being mindful of costs like fuel to succeed in the industry.