A semi-truck simply known as a “semi” or “tractor” is the combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers to carry freight. A semi-trailer attaches to the tractor with a fifth-wheel coupling as known as a hitch, with much of its weight borne by the tractor. The result is that both the tractor and semi-trailer will have a design distinctly different from that of a rigid truck and trailer.
This category has tons of great articles about semi-trucks, trucking news, the best semi-truck brands from Freightliner to Peterbilt, Section 179, CB codes, trucker slang, trucker songs, movies and more.
When it comes to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and its plans to regulate the trucking industry, most ideas such as speed limiters are frowned upon by drivers who are willing to let FMCSA take as much time as it needs to get that underway.
Jack Van Steenburg, the Assistant Administrator and Chief Safety Officer of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) during the Trump Administration, pointed out a very interesting statistic when speaking at the Heavy Duty Trucking Exchange: despite there being 750,000 motor carriers within the United States, only about 19,000 (or 3%) have gone through the […]
We seldom write about Canada, so when we do, there is a big enough news story to justify doing so.It seems the Teamsters union cannot come to agreements with Canadian National Railway Company and Canadian Pacific Kansas City, leading to potential events that put the nation’s economy at the risk of a significant slowdown.DetailsBoth sides […]
Delaying regulations seems to be the norm in late 2024, with the EPA pushing biofuel volumes in its Renewable Fuel Standard program to 2026. Clean Fuels Alliance America, and association that advocates for the various fuel types that this would relate to, is now applying a lawsuit to the Environmental Protection Agency. Details Members of […]
Truckers knowledgeable about industry regulations constantly hear about the harrowing future of speed limiters, but it seems like that can is constantly kicked down the road until before you know it, it is in another state. That seems to be the case nowadays, as speed limiters are one of the regulations being tabled until 2025. […]
The Importance of Choosing the Right Semi-Truck Brand In the busy world of transportation, picking the right semi-truck is a big deal for businesses. Semi-trucks, also known as tractor-trailers, do the heavy lifting in moving goods across long distances, connecting businesses with their customers. Choosing the best semi-truck can make a huge difference in how […]
With the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) opting to increase the scrutiny for what counts as a State of Emergency, the news regarding them has slowed to a crawl. This makes it all the more surprising when two states on the East Coast announce one within a day of each other, for the same […]
By now you have probably heard that it will be illegal to operate a diesel-powered vehicle within the borders of the most populous state in 2042. This means that, among other fuel sources, electricity will reign supreme. But the American Transportation Research Institute did its own studying to find out just how feasible the green […]
Commercial vehicles haul approximately 70% of the nation’s freight and are invaluable when it comes to emergencies such as hurricanes and earthquakes that cut off vital infrastructure, requiring the delivery of important supplies such as blankets, drinking water, and petroleum fuels, but HW Electro, a Japanese car maker, has thought of a new thing its […]
We wrote yesterday about the fire that took place under a bridge along Interstate 10 in Los Angeles. Now, more details have unfolded.Those DetailsIn his latest statement regarding the I-10 closure, California Governor Gavin Newsom reports that investigators have determined that the fire of wooden pallets was caused by arson, meaning that someone did it […]
,000,000 in trucks, has a 25% average tax rate, and generates 0,000 in income for the year, the maximum your business can claim in deductions is 0,000. Fortunately, the additional 0,000 in deductions can be carried over to the next year. Software must have non-exclusive use. Purchasing tax preparation software from a retailer is eligible […]
Dogs in semi-trucks can be a great companion for you during long drives. Music, podcasts, and blogs about semi-trucks can only help pass time on the road for so long. If you’re feeling lonely and isolated from being on the road so much, a dog in your cab could be the solution for you. It’s […]
History Of The Owner-Operator The role of the owner-operator in the trucking industry has a long and complex history, closely tied to the broader economic and regulatory history of transportation in the United States. Here’s a brief overview: Early 20th Century: The trucking industry began to take off in the early 20th century as motorized […]
Welcome to our Comprehensive Trucking Industry Glossary. This extensive collection of terms and definitions has been curated to provide valuable insights into the unique language of the trucking industry. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking to familiarize yourself with common jargon, a seasoned veteran looking to brush up on terminology, or an external stakeholder aiming to […]
What is Commercial Truck Insurance? Commercial truck insurance is a type of insurance policy specifically designed for businesses that operate commercial trucks and vehicles. It provides financial protection to the business owner and driver in case of accidents, theft, or other incidents involving their commercial trucks. Commercial truck insurance typically covers various aspects such as: […]
What is a Service Truck? Service trucks are versatile and valuable assets for businesses across a wide range of industries in the USA. They are designed to transport tools, equipment, and personnel to job sites, while also providing on-site support for various operations. In this article, we will explore the most popular service trucks used […]
The world of heavy-duty trucks is vast and diverse, with many different makes, models, and configurations to suit various needs. In this article, we will explore the differences between various heavy-duty trucks, delving into popular makes and models, their unique configurations, and the price ranges for each type. We will also provide detailed specifications for […]
Commercial vehicles play a vital role in various industries, from transportation and logistics to construction and public transit. To better understand the diverse range of commercial vehicles and their specific functions, it’s essential to familiarize oneself with their classification systems. In the United States, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classifies commercial vehicles into eight distinct […]
As the transportation industry continues to grow, the importance of reducing gas consumption in semi-trucks becomes increasingly important. Reducing gasoline consumption in a semi-truck not only saves money but also reduces the carbon footprint of the trucking industry. Here are some tips for reducing fuel consumption in a semi-truck. 1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure Proper […]
The trucking industry has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, and it’s no surprise that technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry. With advancements in automation, connectivity, and data analytics, the trucking industry is poised for a transformative future. Automation Automation is a rapidly growing […]
Synthetic oil has been around for several decades, but it has gained popularity in recent years as a preferred choice for lubricating engines. Unlike conventional oil, artificial oil is made from chemical compounds designed to perform better in extreme temperatures and heavy-duty applications. 1. Better Engine Protection Synthetic oil provides better engine protection compared to […]
If you own or operate a semi-truck, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle in good condition. One of the most critical components of your truck is its engine. A well-maintained engine ensures optimal performance and can help you avoid costly breakdowns on the road. Here are some tips on how to […]
What is a Load Board? A load board is an online platform that connects shippers and carriers in the transportation industry. Shippers post their available loads on the load board and carriers can search for and book those loads. Load boards are commonly used in the trucking industry and are a convenient way for shippers […]
While America is experiencing a tumultuous winter as a whole, the trucking industry is having an average slow season. As to be expected, freight rates decreased to match demand after the holidays. DAT Freight & Analytics has the numbers. February 2023 Numbers Dry van hauling declined from $2.38 to $2.26 per mile. Flatbed decreased four […]
Truck driving is an essential job that plays a vital role in keeping our economy moving. However, it’s also a job that can take a toll on a driver’s health and wellness. Long hours on the road, irregular schedules, and the sedentary nature of the job can lead to a variety of health problems, from […]
What are the top 5 best headsets for truckers? A wireless Bluetooth headset is arguably the most important piece of equipment a trucker can have. Bluetooth headsets for truckers are designed with comfort and noise control in mind. Noise-canceling and background sound mitigation allow you to stay more focused on the task at hand, driving, […]
About International Trucks New International semi-trucks are becoming increasingly popular for transporting goods and merchandise nationwide. The new models boast high performance, improved fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge technologies that make them a great investment for trucking companies and independent contractors alike. International Truck Models for 2023 Medium Duty CV Series The CV series is a […]
What are the best semi-truck brands? As the trucking industry continues to grow, more and more companies are investing in semi-trucks to meet their transportation needs. With a wide range of brands and models available, it can be difficult to determine which semi-truck is the best for your business. We’ve compiled a list of the […]
Electric semi-trucks are gaining popularity, as they offer a more sustainable and efficient mode of transportation for goods. The EV semi-truck industry has been booming in recent years, with all electric semi-trucks rolling into the market, it’s important to understand the what your options are for the best electric semi-trucks. In this article we will […]
Semi-trucks play a crucial role in the transportation industry, and it is a job that requires great responsibility, skill, and dedication. The demand for skilled truck drivers is increasing, and the industry is offering attractive salaries to attract and retain the best talent. As a result, truck driving has become one of the best-paying jobs […]
When it comes to cab snacks, truck drivers and fleet operators have a variety of options to choose from. However, choosing cab snacks that are easy to store and won’t spoil quickly is important. Some popular options include: Jerky: Jerky is a great option for truck drivers because it is high in protein and can […]
What’s New? Research conducted along an East Coast freight corridor found that truckers are missing out on open parking spaces due to a lack of visibility of what’s available, and drivers’ perception, based on trucks already parked along the side of the highway, that all spots are taken. “The most influential factor — or the […]
According to the Energy Information Administration data report, released on Dec. 26, the average national diesel fuel price has gone down 5.9 cents in the past week, bringing the total average to $4.537 per gallon. Since Nov. 7 diesel prices have dropped 79.6 cents, from $5.333 a gallon to the current average of $4.537. This […]
It’s no secret truck drivers do not always get enough movement day-to-day. The best way to avoid blood clots and hypertension is by stretching! This non-comprehensive list of stretches is something you could do all from the comfort of your driver’s seat (but please, proceed with caution, and do not perform the stretches while the […]
What’s New? The Trucker Bathroom Accessibility Act was introduced by U.S. Reps. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) and Chrissy Houlahan (D. Pa.). If passed, the bill would require businesses with a restroom for either employees or customers to be open to delivery or pick-up drivers. The bill does not require businesses without a restroom to construct one, […]
What’s New? Starting Jan. 1, Michigan will increase its gas tax by 1.4 cents thanks to an automatic adjustment written into state law. According to Michigan legislation, and an automatic adjustment in the state law, Michigan state tax will increase from 27.2 cents per gallon to 28.6 cents per gallon. A law from when Gov. […]
On December 13th, scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California were able to use nuclear fusion to generate more energy than was used to conduct the procedure, marking the first step in the potential for the use of nuclear energy for everyday use. This has more implications on trucking than you may first […]
What’s New? On Dec. 2 President Joe Biden signed a bill to end the long-standing labor agreement between a freight rail station and its union workers. “The bill I’m about to sign ends a difficult rail dispute and helps our nation avoid what without a doubt would have been an economic catastrophe at a very […]
What’s New? The United States House of Representatives voted on Nov. 30 to pass a bill that would force the railroad and the unions to abide by the terms outlined in the September tentative agreement. The measure passed by a vote of 290-137 and now heads to the Senate. If approved, it will be quickly […]
What’s New? A strike could occur as early as Dec. 9 now that freight carriers union SMART-TD has rejected the tentative agreement negotiated in mid-September by Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and other officials. The Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers union and their 500+ Transportation Division members made the announcement on Nov. 21. Another […]
What’s New? Mental health issues in truck drivers are not a thing of the past, if anything it is more prevalent and more dangerous than it has ever been. According to the CDC, there are five major industry groups with the highest suicide rate, transportation workers rank at number five. We’ve compiled a list of […]
What’s New? Meta-analysis suggests about 40% of people below the age of 25 have hypertension, which in 2015, was about 1 billion people worldwide. Hypertension is the most critical risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease and accounts for 50% of all ischemic heart disease and stroke events. Many different things cause hypertension, also known as […]
What’s New? According to the CDC, 70 million Americans suffer from some sort of sleep-related disorder. Roughly 80 sleep disorders have been noted and the most common amongst truck drivers is obstructed sleep apnea. OSA is the most widespread sleep disorder in truck drivers according to Rodolfo Giacoman, fatigue management program specialist for Commercial Vehicle […]
What’s New? On Saturday, November 5, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union members approved the terms of the deal presented by the railroad. If you’ll recall, on July 15, President Joe Biden blocked a freight railroad strike in Omaha, Nebraska. This strike would disrupt the already fragile supply chain by delaying the […]
We at TopMark Funding have been busy. So busy, that we skipped a month on posting about monthly jobs in the trucking industry according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This month, we are getting it out of the way immediately so as to not forget. October (and September) 2022 Numbers October 2022’s first […]
What’s New? The American Trucking Associations Law Enforcement Advisory Board, which consists of 37 retired and active law enforcement professionals with over 900 combined years of experience, sent letters to the governor’s office and the state department of transportation of all 50 states. The letters urged the states to apply for additional federal funding to […]
What’s New? US Route 212 was awarded $10 million on Sept. 15 from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America federal funding account. Route 212 is a major corridor that connects Southwest Minnesota and Twin Cities. The corridor spans 161 miles in Minnesota and connects 22,000 square miles of Minnesota and South Dakota. The funds will be […]
What’s New? On October 11, the Biden Administration announced that $60 billion (yes, billion with a “B”) of federal funding would be used to repair transportation corridors nationwide. “America’s roads and bridges are the vital arteries of our transportation system, connecting people and goods across the country,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. On Oct. 13 […]
Background On July 15, President Joe Biden blocked a freight railroad strike in Omaha, Nebraska. This strike would disrupt the fragile supply chain by delaying the shipment of goods for at least 60 days. To combat this, President Biden appointed a board of arbitrators, the Presidential Emergency Board, to help the dispute with contract building […]
The trucking industry is ever-changing and the history of trucking is very extensive. What is even more extensive, is the recent influx in regulations pertaining to trucking and overall transportation. We’ve hand-crafted a list of the most influential and relevant regulations to the trucking industry. Some you may be familiar with, and some you may […]
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities in 2021 were estimated to be around 43,000, which is a 10.5% increase from an already high prior year. This news has led to the Secretary of the Department of Transportation to tweet about how safety standards on the road should be closer to […]
What’s new? Texas Department of Transportation has announced its plan to spend $85 billion on roadways, focusing on congestion, enhanced transportation safety, and improved highways over the next 10 years. The governor gave the stamp of approval on Aug. 30. The 188-page document outlines the planning and development for the Unified Transportation Program, which also […]
What’s New? On Thursday, Sept. 15 U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg announced that the Biden-Harris Administration has awarded $1.5 billion for highway, multimodal freight, and rail projects that will make the nation’s transportation and infrastructure systems safer and more resilient. “Today we are announcing transformative investments in our nation’s roads, bridges, ports, and rail […]
What’s New? Illinois Department of Transportation’s Data-Driven Decisions Tool has selected 13 projects for state investment improvements. The tool was used to determine which projects would benefit the most under the state’s Multi-Year Program (fiscal years 2023 to 2028). The analytics tool was used to assess current infrastructure projects adding highway capacity to a 6-year […]
What’s New? Early on Sept. 15, it was announced that the six Class I railroads and union workers reached a tentative deal with the management council for the rail carriers. The tentative deal prevented about 115,000 conductors, engineers, and other employees from staging a walkout. In a statement by President Biden, he said this deal […]
What’s New? According to the Energy Information Administration, data report released on Sept. 12, diesel fuel dropped 5.1 cents to $5.033 a gallon. The price of diesel fuel jumped on Aug. 29 to $5.115 after being below $5 for nine weeks. Diesel Gas September Predictions According to EIA, based on their Short-Term Energy Outlook Sept. […]
What’s New? The Department of Transportation is giving $513.2 million to 30 states as part of their Emergency Relief Program. The goal of the program is to provide relief to communities after extreme weather and wildfires. “From recent hurricanes that struck the Gulf Coast, to wildfires in California and floods and mudslides in numerous states, […]
What’s New? On Aug. 29, the EIA reported diesel fuel increased by 20.6 cents, ending the nine-week long streak of decline in fuel costs. This increase puts the national average over $5 per gallon. From June 27, after reaching a record high of $5.810, to Aug. 8, diesel prices declined about 10 cents per week, […]
On July 15, President Joe Biden blocked a freight railroad strike in Omaha, Nebraska. This strike would disrupt the already fragile supply chain by delaying the shipment of goods for at least 60 days. The appointed Presidential Emergency Board gave the 12 unions involved a 124-page report outlining the terms they suggest. Both sides have […]
Background On July 15, President Joe Biden blocked a freight railroad strike in Omaha, Nebraska. This strike would disrupt the fragile supply chain by delaying the shipment of goods for at least 60 days. To combat this, President Biden appointed a board of arbitrators, the Presidential Emergency Board, to help the dispute with contract building […]
House Bill 479 aims to increase fines for truck drivers who park in residential parking, increasing fines up to $2,000. Currently, the bill is waiting on action from Delaware Gov. John Carney after it went through the General Assembly unopposed. “Staff from the governor’s office usually reach out to the chief clerk of the House […]
What’s New? Aug. 30 – Gas prices have fallen for 70 days consecutively. This is the second longest decline in gas prices since January 2015, falling for 117 days. According to AAA, gas prices are averaging about $3.892 per gallon after reaching a record high of $5.016 per gallon in June. Diesel Gas 2023 Predictions […]
What’s new? An American Trucking Association study released on August 10, states that truck driver wages increased by 18% compared to 2019 average wages. Median compensation in 2021 stood at $69,687. This does not include benefits, but it does include bonuses. “In the truckload space, compensation was up 18% from 2019,” ATA Chief Economist Bob […]
As of Aug. 15, the average cost of gasoline has dropped 45 cents over the past three weeks, standing at an average of $4.10 per gallon. Over the past nine weeks, we have seen an 81-cent drop, which is still $1 more than this time last year. San Francisco had the highest recorded gas prices […]
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is expanding its commercial driver’s license program to focus on incarcerated women. “CDL training is a career field which is in high demand throughout the U.S.,” said Donald Murphy, a spokesman for the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ Information, Policy and Public Affairs Division, in an interview with Transport Topics. “Inmates […]
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 is a scaled-back version of President Biden’s Build Back Better climate change proposal. The Inflation Reduction Act aims to combat severe weather events for infrastructure projects and promote greener sources of energy for transportation networks. The total bill comes to a grand $740 billion and while the bill details […]
What’s New According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, diesel prices have dipped below $5 per gallon. The last time this was seen was in March 2021. After hitting its peak on June 20 with a nationwide average of $5.81 per gallon, we are seeing a decline in both gasoline and diesel prices. Diesel is […]
The Energy Information Administration report on July 25 shows diesel and gasoline prices decline for the fifth week in a row. Diesel prices hit a record high of $5.810 on June 20. Since then prices have declined by 54.2 cents. All 10 of the places EIA spoke with have reported a fall in diesel prices […]
The Energy Information Administration report on August 1 shows diesel and gasoline fuel prices decline for the sixth week in a row. Diesel prices hit a record high of $5.810 on June 20. Since then prices have declined by 67.2 cents. All 10 of the places EIA spoke with have reported a fall in diesel […]
On July 18, protesters blocked the Port of Oakland, as a response to Assembly Bill 5 (AB5), resulting in a 95% decline in operations. Owner-operated truck drivers make up 90% of the Bay Area port operations, but that quickly came to a halt when protesters blocked trucks from getting into the port. The original protest […]
The Interstate 81 Corridor Coalition wants to form a multistate team in order to apply for federal funds to improve truck parking along the interstate highway. Who is the I81CC? The I81CC was originally formed in 2011 to improve driving conditions for freight and passenger transportation along the corridor. This decision came after a roundtable […]
What is equipment financing? Equipment financing is an assist-based loan type for small businesses. It was designed to aid in the purchasing of machinery and the necessary equipment needed to run your business. The loan can assist in the purchase of anything from a cargo van to commercial vehicles to other types of commercial trucks. […]
With the end of the year and the power of the holiday season, the trucking industry has been able to enjoy the highest per-mile rates of the year, if not in recorded history. DAT Freight & Analytics has the numbers. By the Numbers Dry van hauling increased the most, jumping eight cents to a round […]
We wrote about how the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals stated the vaccine mandate was constitutional, and how it was now up to whether or not the Supreme Court would be willing to hear the case. We have our answer: the Supreme Court has agreed to a special hearing on January 7th. Details Were the […]
For the past year or so, the trucking industry has been on fire (in a good way). Now, like a torrential rain pouring on a blazing wildfire, a series of unfortunate, overlapping events in the current political landscape has the chance to pull the rug from under the current trucking industry.Port BackupWe have written about […]
What Every Business Owner Needs to Know Section 179 is a very simple part of the tax code. Even if you do not know its name, if you have ever done taxes for a business you own, you most likely have already claimed a Section 179 Deduction. In this article, we will go over Section […]
The Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo happened near the start of September. Normally we write about the trucking industry, but we provide business financing for all types of equipment, equipment that the ACT Expo had in spades that makes us excited for the future. From conventional day cabs to commercial cargo bikes, here is the […]
Truckers heading north on one of America’s most populous interstate highways may find themselves out of luck for the foreseeable future, as the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announced on September 21st that tractor-trailers are barred from using the northbound lanes through a construction zone in Wilmington.DetailsThe announcement comes as a reaction from observing approximately […]
Things might finally be returning to normal, as an event in the trucking industry was canceled for a reason other than COVID-19. NTEA The National Trucking Equipment Association (NTEA) has decided to cancel its 2021 Truck Product Conference. Usually at these events, industry leaders show off technological upgrades such as making the truck chassis slightly […]
58% of truck drivers are willing to admit to performing unauthorized parking at least three times per week. Minneapolis’ city council has devised a law that will probably make the citizens and tourists of Minneapolis very happy, but will make truck drivers furious.The LawOn Friday, July 23rd, the city council voted 12-1 for a truck […]
Anyone who has been in the trucking industry for longer than a year knows that demand for trucks (new, used, and components) is rapidly outpacing supply, at least for the short term. What better time to leverage your position than when you are needed most? Whether that was their plan or the timing just happened […]
Traffic is a silent killer, and if Congress wants to save lives and bolster the economy, reducing traffic is a way to do both of them at once. The American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) compiled and analyzed data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and found some interesting details on the effect that […]
Nobody can predict the future, but they can certainly make educated guesses about it.
If you are a citizen of 49 different states or the District of Columbia (New York being the sole exception), you can drive with a CDL within state borders at various ages between 18 and 21. Once a truck driver crosses state borders, however, it becomes a federal issue and the CDL holder must be at least 21.
You have driven your truck for as long as you can remember, but it is starting to make funny noises and the exhaust is a few shades too dark. It was bound to happen eventually; the engine is starting to show its age. Reaching into the pocketbook for either an overhaul or purchasing a different […]
In mid-April, Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Meera Joshi as the administrator to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Does this sound familiar? If the news sounds like a repeat from the beginning of the year, there is a slight change that makes this different than before. Technical Promotion Until now, Joshi […]
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is once again in sight. Like last year, the CVSA is putting a hefty focus on speeding, and with all of the data regarding speeding, it is easy to see why.
For a majority of the past year, we have been writing about how the pent up demand for trucking services due to the coronavirus pandemic has caused the trucking industry to rebound with terms such as “on fire” and “skyrocket on top of a skyrocket”. Frankly, we are running out of terms to describe how well the trucking industry is performing right now. Exploding? Volcanic?
While the numbers deviated slightly from the update in the middle of March, the massive jump in rates for all three forms of freight held steady.
On March 31st, the office of Joe Biden released the details for the American Jobs Plan. The entire infrastructure plan press release clocks in at almost 12,000 words. Reading it is a time-consuming project, but if you want to, you can view it on the fact sheet webpage. For those who have better things to […]
2021 is the new 2020. While many bills related to the trucking industry died in the legislative process in the previous year, many of them are getting a second wind with a new Congress and White House. One of these is an attempt to resolve the perpetual problem of truck parking, a problem that was […]
The way things have been, a fuel tax of 18.4 cents per gallon of gasoline and 24.4 cents of diesel fuel have been used for the Highway Trust Fund. These numbers, unchanged since 1993, are not enough for the infrastructure needs of the country.
Side guards might seem like another costly regulation for truckers, but they can help other drivers keep ahead.
TopMark Funding is located within view of a highway, and do not think we miss the heavy-duty trucks that come by! We see all types of trucks traveling on that road, from flatbeds carrying tubing to trucks hauling almost 80,000 pounds of tomatoes in an open-faced trailer.
We usually only post about the freight rates when DAT has solidified the numbers, usually a week after the month has passed. We have made exceptions for notable changes in freight rates, and here is another one. While we are only a little bit over halfway through the month, DAT is estimating freight rates to […]
The winter months after the holiday season are generally the slowest months of the year for the trucking industry, so it may not come as a surprise that the preliminary numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) that employment numbers in the industry are down. The Numbers Preliminarily, the BLS pins the total count […]
For the month prior, truck sales were either great or bad depending on if you looked at the increase from last year or last month, respectively. With February, truck sales have increased no matter the angle.The NumbersAccording to Freight Transportation Research (FTR), 44,000 Class 8 trucks were sold in February. This is a tiny 3% […]
Not a direct order of Biden but instead implemented by people he approved within the Department of Labor, the regulations regarding off-time pay is shifting back to what it was before the Trump administration. Off-Time Pay Should drivers traveling across the country be compensated for their downtime, considering they are never truly off when on […]
Recently, the folks over at PACCAR unveiled their newest upgrade to their 579 line of Class 8 trucks, aptly called “The New Model 579”. Peterbilt is hoping to innovate and change the way that truckers perform their jobs. Here is what Peterbilt touts as changes from the previous model. Aerodynamics While Peterbilt advertises eleven key […]
Approximately two weeks ago, we predicted that the Tesla Semi would not come out in 2021. This was not based on any confirmation, but a hunch that the streak of delaying the Semi’s release would continue. While the Tesla Semi is still slated for a 2021 release according to the company, it has hit a […]
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has released the preliminary job numbers in the trucking industry for January 2021. The results are slightly surprising, ending an eight month streak of job growth in the industry, the preliminary numbers suggest the first month of job losses since the dog days of the coronavirus pandemic back in […]
ACT and FTR differ on their numbers for Class 8 truck sales by a few hundred each month, but their general messages are the same. This prior month’s message being that the trucking industry is cooling off from the holiday season, but still shows promise of being on fire.The NumbersACT has sales for January set […]
In tandem with the previous two months of freight data, one form of freight deviates in direction from the others. This month, however, two dropped while only one rose.The DataOf the three forms of freight, the largest change happened with dry vans, dropping nine cents to have its rate the lowest since August. It is […]
If you have been following the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) news for a while now, three names might ring as familiar: Raymond Martinez, Jim Mullen, and Wiley Deck. These three were the deputy administrators of the FMCSA during the Trump Administration, for varying amounts of time. With the transition to the Biden Administration, […]
A little over a year ago, we wrote an article predicting how 2020 would go for the trucking industry. In the vaguest and broadest of terms, we were correct. Freight rates were on average higher than in 2019 (albeit slumped in the spring), and truck production did stall (though not because of a surplus of […]
One problem facing electric vehicles is different plugs and outlets for charging depending on the vehicle. PACCAR Parts wants to alleviate this problem for drivers, even if they are not direct customers of PACCAR brands such as Kenworth and Peterbilt.Universal ChargingWhether you have started making the transition to electric commercial vehicles or plan to do […]
For November, we wrote how flatbeds had their average per-mile rate reduced while the other two forms of freight increased. Poetically, it is now the refrigerated trailer to have its turn to reduce in rate.The DataWhile the numbers do not increase with the same intensity as they did in the middle of 2020, they do […]
Unless your name is Jeff Bezos or Elon Musk, there is a pretty good chance this was not your year. From a potential World War III in January, to the COVID-19 pandemic that started in March and is still going today, to the summer protests and blocked highways, this year had it all. We want […]
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) was planning to have its International Roadcheck this year in May, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, it was delayed. As we learned more about the virus and how to minimize transmission, as well as realizing it would be a while before it went away entirely, the CVSA decided […]
We wrote about what a Biden presidency would mean for the trucking industry in mid-November. In that article, our first point was that the Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT), Elaine Chao, would end her nearly four year term by being replaced. You have read the title of this article, so you know who […]
Hopefully this will be the last coronavirus article we at TopMark Funding will ever have to write, as the coronavirus vaccine has been authorized for distribution and application nationwide. But COVID-19 does not plan to go down without a fight, and as one last hurrah, it may just make the holidays a little more difficult, […]
Freight Transportation Research Associates (FTR) released their data on new Class 8 truck sales for November 2020 on December 2nd. We predicted the numbers would stagnate and be approximately equal to those found in October, at around 40,100. To say the very least, we were wrong. The Data FTR reports preliminary data that says that […]
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) releases two statistics each month: one is the preliminary numbers (estimate) for the month prior, and the other is a more accurate count for three months prior. The solid numbers for September came in with November’s preliminaries, and while the former is essentially what the BLS has suspected, the […]
Growth cannot last forever. After a long run of consistently rising freight rates, it appears flatbed rates are the first of the three to have a month lower than the previous month.Not to worry, however, as the flatbed rates only dropped one cent, so while flatbeds stumble, they are not tumbling down an impossible to […]
What do you get when you combine pushed back demand from the coronavirus pandemic with the demand of Black Friday? You get the highest demand for truckload shipments in recent history. Since FreightWaves created the Outbound Tender Volume Index (OTVI), it is at the highest it has ever been.OTVIFreightWaves describes outbound tender as:“…a load offer […]
The COVID-19 vaccine seems to be a rousing success, as companies developing them tout a 90-95% efficacy rate in testing. We have already written about one of the difficulties of distribution of the vaccine: keeping the vaccines cold. In that article, we lightly scratched on another problem that deserves more attention: the demand for reefer […]
If the coronavirus pandemic were a war, truckers would be the front line infantry, going out into the field to give people the supplies they need to either stay healthy (sanitizers and face masks), or to stay quarantined (food and entertainment supplies). With two different COVID-19 vaccines both showing a minimum 90% efficacy rate, it […]
It does not take an expert in economics to understand the fundamental balance between supply, demand and price. The trucking industry has been said to have a “driver shortage” for a long time now, but if the basic principle of supply versus demand holds, there would be a negative correlation between those employed and the […]
Cummins and Navistar go together like garlic and onions. They recently extended their eighty-year partnership even further. Now the two companies hope to work together in the race to get a hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty truck to market.DetailsThe Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) wants to actively promote the development […]
Unless all the election news has pushed older information out of your brain, you may remember that the FMCSA spoke at an ATA virtual conference about many topics, one of which was working to make self-driving commercial vehicles as safe as possible. But beyond safety, there are many more uncertainties to autonomous trucks. Will they […]
Not only is the holiday season the busiest season in trucking with increased shipping demand and often the highest rates of the year, it is also far and away the most dangerous. If your tractor breaks down on you in the summer, the only location to have any fear is in the desert. Winter, to […]
Fully electric Class 8 vehicles that can travel along the California coast in a single charge are still off into the future, but that does not mean that electric semi-trucks do not exist now. One example of such a machine is the Kenworth T680E, which will go into production and be for sale at Kenworth […]
A week after the publishing of this article, October 2nd, marked the third annual “That’s a Big 10-4 on Washington D.C.” event. Normally the event lasts multiple days, but because of today’s landscape between the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest during an election year, the event was compacted into a single day.The DetailsMissed the event […]
According to Freight Transportation Research Associates (FTR), around 20,500 new trucks were sold in the month of August. Now the September numbers are in, and if you have been following the truck sales for the past few months, it should not surprise you. The Data New trucks sold for September according to FTR totaled 32,000. […]
Trading upward does not necessarily have to entail purchasing a newly manufactured truck right off the factory lines. Sometimes, a swap can be as easy as getting the same make and model, just increasing the year. Some thrifty companies that would rather own their trucks than lease will own used trucks until they are ready […]
It does not take a trucking expert to understand that hauling double trailers takes a lot more skill and finesse than a single. How can drivers haul more freight while reducing crashes? The state of North Dakota plans to have its legislature discuss the topic in January. The Great Debate The way things are now […]
Every month for a while now, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been extending the State of Emergency by another month. The FMCSA has decided to take a more proactive approach, and as of September 11th the State of Emergency has been extended until the end of the year. The Details You can […]
We at TopMark Funding have talked about Nikola Corporation going public and how you can become a part-owner in the fledgling company. Now, it seems General Motors wants a piece of the action. The companies have announced plans to become part-owners of one another. The Details The companies became part-owners of one another by swapping […]
If you have been following trucking industry news before the coronavirus pandemic hit the forefront, you may remember that Congress debated the DRIVE Safe Act. Apparently that bill died in the halls of Congress, because truckers under the age of 21 still cannot haul freight via semi-truck across state lines. The FMCSA wants to give […]
Pardon the pun, but the trucking industry is on a roll. Trucking sales rose for yet another consecutive month. The Data Two studies, one from the Freight Transportation Research Associates (FTR) and the other from Americas Commercial Transportation Research Company (ACT), tell ever so slightly different stories. ACT estimates Class 8 truck sales for the […]
The DAT numbers are in for August, and it is a good time to be a trucker. Though the trendline slopes are still downward, that very well can change in the future, as August 2020 marks the fourth month in a row where all three categories of freight have risen from the previous month (Reefer […]
The numbers are in. We had written about June trailer sales at approximately this same time last month, and Freight Transportation Research (FTR) has released its latest data for new trailer sales. July 2020 shattered all expectations.By the NumbersIt does not take a trucking industry expert to imagine that the coronavirus pandemic caused new trailer […]
Cummins and Navistar International announced on August 10th their plans to continue working together in a partnership, as they have for over eighty years.Working in UnisonMost truck companies, such as Volvo and PACCAR, build their own engines in house, for both cost savings and to ensure all of the parts work together. Navistar International prefers […]
With all of the cancellations of physical events and adding of new virtual events in their stead, it may not come as a surprise to many that the Used Truck Association (UTA) is changing the UTA Convention, set on November 4th to the 7th, into a fully virtual event. What may be surprising is that […]
The demand for new trucks in 2020 was not reduced from the coronavirus pandemic, merely moved forward in time. According to Freight Transportation Research (FTR), North American Class 8 sales in July was approximately 20,000 units. That is 28% higher than in June, and to compare apples to apples, double the orders from July 2019. […]
If you have been in the trucking industry long enough to have bought a truck, you know about the Federal Excise Tax (FET), a tax that was implemented in 1917 to help finance World War I and has been chugging along ever since, for well over a century by now!The FET adds 12% to a […]
In the 19th century Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla duked it out to determine the future of electricity between DC and AC. Now, two companies, both named after the winner of that debacle, are battling it out to get their electric trucks out to market. Nikola Nikola Motor Company is the underdog in the competition. […]
We have written a lot about zero-emission trucks, but when it comes to hauling perishable goods such as frozen foods, tractors are only half of the equation. The reefer unit also needs to use energy in order to offset the second law of thermodynamics (that is, keep cold items cold). Wabash National, a manufacturer of […]
At the beginning of July, we wrote an article detailing some good news for the health of the trucking industry: new truck orders in June broke expectations. Following up, in comparison, new trailer sales completely shattered all expectations for that month. The Data According to Americas Commercial Transportation Research Company (ACT), U.S. trailer orders for […]
We at TopMark Funding have written before about the obstacles stopping autonomous semi-trucks from becoming the norm. One of the largest was the problem we called “Dynamic Adaptation”: how current autonomous trucks work fine in open, well-maintained highways, but start to struggle when dealing with less optimal scenarios such as road hazards and city streets. […]
If you are a trucker that keeps track of anything related to regulations, you know about the FMCSA’s ELD Mandate. As of December 2019, all non-exempt trucks (exempt trucks including ones that tow other cars, among others) are required to have a compliant electronic logging device (ELD) to track various factors of driving data. The […]
You might remember that at the beginning of 2020 we compiled annual reports from the American Trucking Associations (ATA) all the way back from 2003. The ATA generates a new report for the year prior in the middle of summer, and it is that time of year again: the ATA has a new report.Data AnalyticsThe […]
We wrote about this before, how trucking levels were on the brink of being above the price per mile before the pandemic hit. Now we can finally bust out that champagne: we are now above February’s rates!Above and BeyondNow at this point you are probably thinking this is hardly a cause for celebration; February is […]
At the start of the year, we wrote an article laying out our predictions for 2020. Nobody could have predicted the wild ride 2020 has been so far, but news has broken that yet another prediction we had has turned out to not happen: new truck sales are on the rise. The Data Two studies, […]
Another month, another update regarding average freight rates for dry van, flatbed, and reefer hauling. By coronavirus standards, rates are doing very well, and have passed pre-pandemic rates for dry van and reefer. By June standards, however, the freight rate still leaves a little bit to be desired. This point is best illustrated via graph, […]
You might remember us writing about the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) delaying the International Roadcheck due to the coronavirus. The CVSA has decided to not let COVID-19 get in the way of its next event, however: Operation Safe Driver Week.Operation Safe Driver WeekThe CVSA describes the event as a time where “law enforcement agencies […]
Autonomous trucks may still be a far way away from becoming the norm, but the journey of a million miles begins with one wheel rotation. A small handful of companies are working together to help lay the groundwork of making it a reality.The TeamThe companies that form this partnership of establishing an autonomous network of […]
In a unanimous vote, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved a mandate detailing what percentage of medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles sold in the state have to be zero emissions for the next decade and a half. The Details The Advanced Clean Truck rule, the first of its type, sets standards for truck and chassis […]
President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order No. 13924,85 FR 31353 on May 19th, 2020. This directed federal agencies such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to take action in fighting not just the coronavirus pandemic, but the economic damages resulting from the pandemic as well. The trucks are essentially the blood cells that […]
The two largest obstacles to making electric vehicles, especially big rigs, the dominating force in the market are range capacity and charging rates. But, there is a third you may have not even considered: heat generation. Charging Speed When charging a small car into a standard 120-volt electrical socket, the car charges at a rate […]
With Tesla delaying the Semi for another year, it appears to be that the Nikola Motor Company (also named after electrical inventor Nikola Tesla) is the frontrunner to get a fully electric semi-truck to market. Their chances just increased immensely when they finished performing a reverse merger with VectoIQ Acquisition that will also raise at […]
When it comes to electric semi-trucks, one of the largest obstacles is charging times. With a standard household outlet, the charging rate for an electric semi-truck can be less than one mile per hour. But there is, for all intents and purposes, a limitless source of energy in the sky that could be harnessed for […]
The month of May resulted in some interesting phenomena for the trucking industry: usually when it comes to dry van, flatbed, and reefer hauling, the rates all change in the same direction. This has been a crazy year, which leads to some crazy changes.For May, the reefer rate average rose, most likely due to the […]
The trucking industry is going through many technological revolutions right now; one of the most important ones is in the telematics field. If you are unaware of telematics being an influential force for commercial trucking, there is a very good chance that you use telematics in your business today. Elaborating further on the usage of […]
Originally Posted by FreightWaves SONAR Freight forecasters need to understand what drives the freight economy in order to forecast volumes, capacity, and rates. Much like the general economy, the variables that drive the freight economy are too numerous to count. However, we can narrow down the principal factors to a select few that really move […]
It might be hard to remember with the coronavirus pandemic suspension (which was recently extended another month to mid-June) that the FMCSA has been planning reform to its hours-of-service regulations. Now the final rule has been published. Despite nobody outside of the FMCSA truly knowing what was going to be in it, it turned out […]
In the 21st century, big rigs are becoming more and more integrated into the Internet to help trucking companies, both big and small, increase their profit margins and generally make life easier. Here are some examples of tech strategies that fleets and owner-operators alike can or should adopt to help run a tight ship. Benefits […]
So you want to advance your career in the trucking industry and earn a little extra money to improve your life. Any of these positions, with the right expertise, can be lucrative positions to have.10. RecruiterNot a job behind the wheel of a truck, but a trucking job nonetheless. With a driver shortage in the […]
[UPDATE] As of Tuesday, May 5, 2020, all locations are now up and running. The map has been updated to reflect this. Originally Posted By ATA Arlington, Va. – As professional truck drivers continue serving on the frontlines during the COVID-19 crisis, American Trucking Associations has partnered with Protective Insurance Company to expand the availability […]
We at TopMark Funding have not been giving you the statistics for average freight rates lately, as we have been writing extensively about more immediate topics such as the Coronavirus. Now that it appears the pandemic is reaching the declining end of the curve, we can get back into the swing of things for normal […]
By The FMCSA Friday, May 1, 2020 The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is assisting in the distribution of one million protective masks to the nation’s commercial truck drivers. FMCSA has been working with states, industry stakeholders, and motor carriers to distribute one million protective face masks for truckers which were provided by the […]
We understand business owners and drivers don’t have time to sort through all the different news coming out about COVID-19, so TopMark has made a detailed truckers guide to when each state will reopen. Updated regularly, this article will include the newest information on when each and every state plans on lifting or extending their […]
Anyone who has been on a long drive knows that sometimes, music just doesn’t keep you entertained for hours on end. Podcasts, which are basically episodic talk shows, are a great option for truckers to listen to while killing time on the long hauls. Since the days of talk radio have started to end, podcasts […]
For The Full Printable PDF Version >> ClickHow to Wear a Cloth Face CoveringCloth face coverings shouldfit snugly but comfortably against the side of the facebe secured with ties or ear loopsinclude multiple layers of fabricallow for breathing without restrictionbe able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shapeCDC on Homemade […]
Driving a truck isn’t just a day job. It’s a fulltime lifestyle that has its own culture, Whether you find yourself looking for a film to watch in the back of a sleeper cab or just at home, movies are one of the best ways to wind down after a long haul of driving. If […]
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently advised that everyone wear some type of face covering or mask while in public to slow spread of the novel coronavirus causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it has not been mandated on a federal level, the state of New Jersey and some cities and counties are now requiring them. […]
For most drivers, semi-trucks aren’t just their work vehicles; truck driving is a lifestyle. The career path even has a culture entirely of its own. Truckers have their own language, movies, jokes, music etc. So when it comes to trucker songs, there are few things better than being on the open road with your favorite […]
Truck drivers have now been exempted from an order requiring adults entering the state of Utah to fill out an online form about their potential exposure to the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 illness.On April 9, Utah Governor Gary Herbert issued an executive order on inbound travel. It established a requirement for all adults entering Utah […]
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Wednesday, April 8 extended its national emergency declaration to May 15. Originally enacted March 13, the declaration provides relief from hours of service regulations for drivers responding to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. The original declaration was to expire Sunday, April 12. The agency said the extension also covers liquefied gases to […]
Center for Disease Control [CDC] >>CDC COVID-19 Self-Checker CDC – Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow The Spread of COVID-19 FOR THE FULL PRINTABLE PDF VERSION >> CLICK 04/07/20 – CDC Launches New Weekly COVID-19 Surveillance Report CDC is modifying existing surveillance systems to track COVID-19, and posted the first of what will […]
What Are The Best Bluetooth Headsets? What are the best Bluetooth headsets for truck drivers for 2020? Truck drivers spend countless hours on the road. On average 8 to 14 hours per day depending on if your a short haul or long haul driver. In heavy traffic situations, you need to keep your eyes on […]
Are you looking for a semi-truck for sale and not sure where to shop? We’ve put together this list of the most popular online semi-truck and commercial vehicle classified sites. Here are the top 5 best semi-truck sites. From 5 to 1. Trucker to Trucker TruckerToTrucker.com is an online superstore for new and used trucks, […]
The COVID-19 Pandemic has had a massive impact on trucker’s daily routines. Physicians everywhere are warning people that a key battle against COVID-19 is won by washing your hands, not touching your face, and sanitizing surfaces you’re in contact with. Since over the road truckers spend most of their time in a truck cab, it is […]
In another episode of coronavirus hysteria, Mid-America Trucking Show organizers have announced that they are cancelling the 49th annual event due to the pandemic. The announcement comes two weeks before the event was to take place, March 26th, 27th, and 28th. “It is with a heavy heart and deep regret that we announce the cancellation […]
The Women in Trucking (WIT) Association has announced plans to launch a Driver Ambassador program with various trucking businesses to raise awareness and promote career opportunities for women in trucking. WIT has partnered with Schneider National and has named Kellylynn McLaughlin, a trainer with Schneider, to be the first Driver Ambassador for WIT. “Trucking is […]
If you have read any article about the transportation industry in the past few years, there is a high chance you have heard about a trucker shortage. Even the American Trucking Association (ATA) has been on record to say that there are not enough people hauling freight. “Over the past 15 years, we’ve watched the […]
Tires without air might not just be a luxury for push lawn mowers anymore. Bridgestone was at the 2020 Technology & Maintenance Council Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Georgia. It announced that it was working on air-free tires for trailers. The design, shown below, is most likely patented with its unique design of […]
Buying a semi-truck, whether you are buying it for yourself in the jump from company driver to owner-operator, or for an employee as you jump from owner-operator to fleet owner, will be one of the biggest decisions anyone makes in their trucking career. It is not a decision to be taken lightly. It costs money […]
Navistar officially started progress on spending $125 million to expand its engine manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama. They held a groundbreaking ceremony on February 11th, 2020. They also hinted that they will use the new space, to build their own powertrains, cooperating with Traton Group to make this a reality.Navistar International Plant ExpansionNavistar Big Bore […]
Credit Score and No Down Payment “I want to get financing for my business equipment. My credit is Poor/Fair/Good/Very Good/Excellent, and I want no down payment, or barring that, as low of a down payment as possible. What options are open for me? How high of a credit score is needed for no down payment?” […]
Paid CDL training, is it too good to be true? On the surface, getting paid to train in a CDL program might seem like a dream come true: you get paid to be able to get paid. The logic seems airtight, but like most major decisions in life, it is a good idea to take […]
To many in the trucking industry, a semi-truck that gets 10 miles per gallon (MPG) at a full load seems like a fantastic pipedream. Of course, in the early years of the trucking industry, when trucks received 2 to 3 miles per gallon, the idea of 5 miles on a gallon of diesel also seemed […]
What are the semi-truck financing requirements? We get asked this question every day. (Makes sense, we’re a semi-truck financing company). We’ve put together this article about semi-truck financing to answer the top 10 semi-truck financing frequently asked questions and you’ve been probably wondering about. What Are The Semi-truck Financing Requirements? What Credit Score Do You […]
In our last article, we talked about the change in total revenue and weight hauled over time in the trucking industry. To compile that data took deep-diving into the American Trucking Associations’ article posts, years into the past. Today, we at TopMark Funding are saving even more time than before, going deep into DAT Solutions’ […]
Millions of truckers employed across America have dedicated their careers to the trucking industry, hauling freight from coast to coast. As technology and regulations change around them with scares of driver shortages and self-driving trucks, commercial truck drivers may fear that the industry will upend them and terminate their livelihoods. We at TopMark Funding are […]
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So you want to obtain semi-truck financing, either for a lease or a loan. Chances are you have lots of questions about the process. Fortunately for you, we here at TopMark Funding have answers to help you get the ideal semi-truck financing for you and your trucking company. If you are interested in obtaining semi-truck […]
At the time of this writing, the year 2020 is still in its infancy. After the tumultuous time of change for the trucking industry in both 2018 and 2019, it is time to make sense of the industry’s health to see if there’s any trends that need addressing. Trucking Isn’t Going Away Amongst the news […]
Some know the Volvo Group as a maker of luxury cars; others know Volvo as a maker of heavy-duty vehicles. What you might not know is that in their heavy-duty trucks, they mostly use powertrains they have built in-house. As of right now, these are the components of Volvo diesel powertrains that are produced. Engines […]
It is no surprise that Detroit Diesel powertrains most frequently appear in Freightliner and Western Star trucks. After all, all three companies are owned by the same parent company, Daimler Trucks North America LLC. Founded in 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, Detroit Diesel manufactures six different engine models. Each member of the engine family is numbered […]
Founded in 1905, PACCAR Inc. touts itself as “a global leader in the design, manufacture and customer support of high-quality premium trucks.” Even if you are not aware of the name of their company, it is unlikely you do not know the names of their most popular brands in North America: Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks. […]
Founded in 1919, Cummins is a Fortune 500 company that sells Cummins powertrains for a variety of different applications, including heavy-duty trucking. They do not make their own big rigs, and instead you can find Cummins powertrains in a variety of brands, such as in a Freightliner, Peterbilt, Volvo and more. On their website, Cummins […]
Founded in 1919, Cummins is a Fortune 500 company that sells engines for a variety of different applications, including heavy-duty trucking. They do not make their own trucks, and instead you can find their engines in a variety of brands, such as in a Freightliner, Peterbilt, or Volvo. On their website, Cummins advertises engines ranging […]
Unless you are purchasing a truck for the brand name, the engine that goes into a truck should be your first priority in your purchasing decision. Here we break down the engines from various manufacturers to compare and contrast them so you may make an educated decision on the inner workings of your future vehicle. […]
What Every Business Owner Needs to Know Section 179 is a very simple part of the tax code. Even if you do not know its name, if you have ever done taxes for a business you own, you most likely have already claimed a Section 179 Deduction. In this article, we will go over Section […]
International is a subsidiary of Navistar International, a holding company founded in 1902 as International Harvester Company and based in the United States. International primarily makes trucks, but aside from sourcing some of their engines from Cummins, International also makes some of its engines in-house. They currently manufacture two engines, one for heavy-duty and severe-duty […]
Here’s your guide to semi-truck financing. Semi-truck financing is a vital piece of the trucking industry puzzle. Correctly leveraging your credit and having the proper equipment and truck financing is critical to managing cash flow, increasing revenue, and growing your trucking company. Whether you’re looking to buy a Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, or any other popular […]
The trucking industry is a huge industry with millions of drivers, with many federal and state laws and regulations. Just like many other large industries the trucking industry has several great associations. These trucking associations were formed to help effectively advocate for owner-operators, fleets owners and trucking businesses. We’ve put together a list of the […]
It is no surprise that Detroit Diesel engines most commonly appear in Freightliner and Western Star trucks. After all, all three companies are owned by the same parent company, Daimler Trucks North America LLC. Founded in 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, Detroit Diesel manufactures six different engine models. Each member of the engine family is numbered […]
Founded in 1905, PACCAR Incorporated touts itself as “a global leader in the design, manufacture and customer support of high-quality premium trucks.” Even if you are not aware of the name of their company, it is almost impossible you do not know the names of their most popular brands in North America: Kenworth and Peterbilt […]
With changes in technology come changes in regulation. The trucking industry is no different. By December 2019, all non-exempt trucks must have an ELD certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). In this article, we will talk about ELDs, their purpose, exemptions, and more important information. What is an ELD? An Electronic Logging […]
A trucking company that is not growing is essentially dying. Sooner or later, you will hit a wall where you cannot do anymore with your time. There are too many loads, too many negotiations, too much time purchasing assets. When that time comes, it’s time to expand your trucking business and add more trucks and […]
Here at TopMark, we like to celebrate the holidays the right way. Which way is that? By posting cool truck pictures. Every day until Christmas we will post one of our favorite classic and modern truck pics right here! You can see our latest additions at the top, while the older ones will be at […]
What Are the Best Job Websites for Truckers? You have your CDL, but you don’t know where to start your career. Your place of business downsized and let you go. You hate your current position and want to work somewhere else. Whatever your scenario, here is our list of job websites and job boards for […]
Understanding Trucker Lingo & CB 10 Codes The trucking industry like many other industries has its own language, terminology, lingo, and slang. Understanding trucker lingo while watching classic trucker movies like Smokey and the Bandit or Convoy will truly give you an understanding of what’s going on. If you’re in the trucking industry you should […]
Your Guide to Trucker Lingo & Slang Have you ever wondered about the cool lingo truckers use? Well, buckle up because we’re diving into the world of trucker slang! In this guide, we’ll uncover the colorful words and phrases that truckers use every day. From “10-4” to “bear in the air,” get ready for a […]
CB Slang for Cities We’ve covered CB 10 codes in a previous article, but there’s more to CB radio slang than just a string of numbers. Here is a list of terms for various cities across continental North America. Term – City The Big A – Atlanta, Georgia Air Capital – Wichita, Kansas Armadillo – […]
It wouldn’t be an 18-wheeler without 18 tires. Considering how tires are a large part of maintenance expenses, it pays to know more about them and how to use them properly for maximum benefit. Here is information regarding tires you might have never thought about, or may just need a refresher. Standard Versus Commercial When […]
What is Truck Insurance? Why Do You Need It? You decide to become a truck driver. You’re looking to finance or lease your new semi-truck. But before you can get approved for truck financing you need to have commercial truck or semi-truck insurance. There are several types of commercial truck insurance. We will cover everything […]
Truck Driver Jokes The best humor is more personal, such as hearing trucker jokes to help liven up the trip. Here is our list of the best jokes for truckers. Tell these to your spouse, your fellow team driver, or your dog. Have a trucker joke you want to share with your fellow truck drivers? […]
Navistar International Corporation (formerly International Harvester Company) is an American holding company that owns the manufacturer of International brand commercial trucks, IC Bus school and commercial buses, Workhorse brand chassis for motorhomes and step vans, and is a private-label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van, and SUV markets. The company […]
Western Star Trucks Sales, Inc., commonly designated Western Star, is an American truck manufacturer headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the German Daimler AG. Western Star produces a range of Class 8 commercial vehicles for both highway and off-road use. Western Star specializes […]
Mack Trucks, Inc., is an American truck manufacturing company and a former manufacturer of buses and trolleybuses. Founded in 1900 as the Mack Brothers Company, it manufactured its first truck in 1907 and adopted its present name in 1922. Mack Trucks is a subsidiary of AB Volvo which purchased Mack along with Renault Trucks in […]
Top GPS Units for Truckers Having a good GPS unit is crucial to finding your way to your next destination. Top-quality Global Positioning Systems have several great features such as weather, lifetime maps, live traffic updates, dashcams, and more. Your GPS should have a few key features to make it worth buying. Here’s a list […]
Volvo Trucks Volvo Trucks is one of the leading heavy truck and engine manufacturers in the world. Today, Volvo Trucks manufactures a broad line of on-highway and vocational Class 8 vehicles. Each new or used purchase is supported by a strong dealer network and by industry-leading parts and service programs to smooth your ride on […]
Peterbilt Motors Company, founded in 1939, is an American manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. A subsidiary of Paccar, which also owns fellow heavy-duty truck manufacturer Kenworth. For 80 years, Peterbilt has supplied the North American commercial vehicle market with the industry’s most rugged, reliable and efficient products. Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt manufactures on the […]
Lease vs Buying a Semi-Truck Semi-truck leasing is a popular alternative to purchasing a semi-truck, financed or otherwise. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of a semi-truck leasing, and why it is such a popular option. How much does it cost to lease a semi-truck? While purchasing a truck has a general range […]
Kenworth is an American manufacturer of medium and heavy-duty Class 8 trucks with offices based in Kirkland, Washington, a suburb of Seattle. Kenworth is one of three major truck divisions and brands under parent company PACCAR. Founded in 1912 by the brothers George T. and Louis Gerlinger JR as a car and truck dealership known […]
Since 1942 Freightliner has been manufacturing semi-trucks and heavy-duty trucks. Freightliner Trucks is an American truck manufacturer and a division of Daimler Trucks North America. The division is known mainly for the heavy-duty class 8 diesel trucks it offers, as well as class 5–7 trucks. Freightliner is the best selling semi-truck in America today. They […]
The American Truck Simulator Experience To celebrate the release of their Utah expansion, SCS Software, the company behind the development of American Truck Simulator, allowed anyone to try American Truck Simulator for free during a weekend. I gave it a swing and here’s what I found. The Game is Approachable From Many Angles When you […]
The Only Trucking Game You Need to Play? Some video games avoid realism, such as Big Rigs: Over the Road Racing. Other video games embrace it, like American Truck Simulator. American Truck Simulator was released in February 2016 to cash in on the video game simulator craze that included Farming Simulator, Train Simulator, and Flight […]
CB 10 Codes (And What They ACTUALLY Mean) Citizens Band Radio (CB Radio) was used for long-range communication before the invention of email and cellular phones. Primarily used by truckers wanting to communicate with each other to pass the time on long commutes, CB radio is still used today. Over the decades, truckers have developed […]
Invariably, a trucker is going to have to do some form of waiting outside of his truck. Whether waiting for truck repairs or waiting for food at a restaurant, give your ears a break from listening to podcasts and grab a magazine. Here are our picks for the top trucker magazines. #7 Fleet Owner Fleet […]
What is a Soft Credit Pull? In regards to credit checks, you have probably heard of soft credit checks and hard credit checks. What are the differences between them? Soft Credit Inquiries Are Private When a person or organization obtains a soft credit pull, only they (and anyone they tell) will know it ever happened […]
Whether in the back of a sleeper cab or in a motel room, a movie is a great way to wind down after a long haul of driving. These are our best trucker movies every trucker should watch. We have the top trucking movies listed from 10 to 1. Let us know what you think […]
Podcasts for Truckers Driving on the road can get, frankly, boring. Podcasts, episodic talk shows, can help mitigate that boredom and even make driving across the country fun. Here are our top picks of podcasts to help truckers get to point B. Podcasts About Trucking It is important to stay up to date within the […]
Step-by-Step Guide to Truck Financing Semi-truck financing is different from traditional truck financing and leasing. Traditional truck loans typically require your credit, business revenue, and time in business to determine if you’re qualified. When it comes to semi-truck financing, the big rig you decide to purchase becomes the collateral, which helps to limit the lender’s […]
What Every Business Owner Needs to Know The IRS tax code is extremely complicated, fortunately, Section 179 is not. If you have ever done taxes for a business you own, you most likely have already claimed a Section 179 Deduction and simply do not know its name. In this article, we will go over Section […]
You know Uber as the app you call when you need to hitch a ride. Professional truck drivers and owner-operators are now going to know it as something else. Uber Freight officially launched its app in late 2017 when they saw a need in the way the trucking industry conducts its business. From there, it’s […]
You’ve heard about the money to be made by becoming a truck driver. Stop at any truck stop and you’ll notice that there are countless trucking job magazines filled with advertisements from trucking companies looking for truck drivers. Many companies are advertising the possibility of making up to $100,000 per year as an owner-operator. It’s […]
When you hear the words self-driving semi-truck or driverless trucks you might think you’re talking about the future. You’d very much be talking about the present because driverless semi-trucks are here. As an owner-operator or a truck driver, you’re probably wondering what that will mean for you. Is autonomous semi-trucks or self-driving semi-trucks going to […]
The phrase “no credit check semi-truck financing” sounds like a dream come true for some people looking for a new truck. What it means is an individual was able to get a loan for their vehicle purchase without having the lender looking into their borrowing history. The big question here is… Does no credit check […]
Every truck should know the weight of diesel fuel. How much does a gallon of diesel fuel weight? When a normal driver passes a truck on the freeway, they don’t really think twice. They might think they want to speed up to pass it, or that they’re getting their view blocked. They don’t think about […]
Choosing your career is, obviously, a big decision. Your career isn’t just another job, it’s something you might do for the rest of your entire life. When you’re trying to see if you should start a truck driving career, you’ve got to know where to begin with such a big decision. Where do you start? […]
What Are The Best Semi Truck Brands We get asked this question all the time, what is the best semi-truck? Or what’s the most popular semi-truck? To help answer those questions we’ve put together a guide to the best semi-truck brands in the United States. We’ve also included a guide of the different styles of […]
How much money do truck drivers make per year? When you’re considering a job, perhaps the most important question of all is how much money you will make. The same goes for the trucking industry, and the answer is a little less straightforward than a simple salary amount. There are about 3.5 million truck drivers […]
Discover the extensive network of highways and interstates that crisscross the United States with our comprehensive list of the top 10 longest routes, ranked by total miles covered. For truck drivers and road enthusiasts alike, these iconic highways are more than just routes; they are lifelines that connect cities, facilitate commerce, and shape the American […]
What is a semi-truck? In North America, the combination vehicles made up of a powered truck and one or more semi-trailers are known as “semis”, “semi-trailers”, “tractor-trailers”, “big rigs”, “semi-trucks”, “18-wheelers”, or “semi-tractor trailers” and “semi-trailer trucks”. The tractor unit typically has two or three axles; those built for hauling heavy-duty commercial construction machinery may […]
The cornerstone of trucking is finding loads to haul and having a consistent list of customers to haul for. That being said, load boards can be a vital resource for truckers to find work easily without the stress of person to person networking, outreach, and contracts. So, what are the best load boards for truck […]
What are the most popular semi-trucks in America? This list is the top-selling brand based on market share and commercial vehicles sold in the United States. Read this article to learn more about the different trucking brands. Please comment below and let us know which is your favorite semi-truck brand. Freightliner Freightliner Trucks is an […]
Automatic vs Manual transmission for semi-trucks – What Do You Prefer to Drive? Perhaps the most crucial part of a semi-truck is its transmission. In 2018 for the automotive industry, only 2 percent of the cars that were sold were manual. While manual transmissions are much more prevalent in semi-trucks, there’s still a movement toward […]
We’ve put together a list of the top 11 trucking apps in 2019. These are the best apps for trucks. Every truck driver should have these apps. And most of them are for free! If you’re looking for the best trucking apps to make your life easier, we’ve got that list for you. Instead of […]
What are the different types of commercial trucks and vehicles? This article will cover the most popular and common commercial vehicles on the road today in the USA. Semi-Trailer Truck A semi-trailer truck more commonly known as a semi-truck or simply “semi” is the combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers to […]
