Month: July 2023

The trucking industry has been around for decades but has experienced significant changes with time. As technology continues to advance, the trucking industry welcomes new possibilities for improving the safety, efficiency, and comfort of truck drivers on the road. Here’s a look at the latest tech and how it aids in making CDL-A drivers’ lives easier while on the road.

Automatic transmissions

In 2023, technology like enhanced power steering and advanced braking systems are standard. However, it may come as a surprise to hear that more and more trucks are being outfitted with automatic transmissions. This tech eases the stress of managing a truck’s shifting, especially in critical situations. Automatic transmissions make a driver’s time on the road even safer by reducing the need to manually shift and allowing for more focus on the road, decreasing driver fatigue, improving defensive driving techniques, and enhancing the vehicle’s performance.

Collision tech

Keeping CDL-A drivers safe is a priority in the truck driving industry. So, it really comes as no surprise that safety tech has drastically improved over the years. Collision mitigation technology uses radar, video, and sensors to monitor real-time road conditions, including lane departure and more. If a potential collision is detected, drivers are automatically alerted and can make the necessary adjustments.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

While the transition to this tech was an involved one, it simplified the lives of drivers in several ways. ELDs create less paperwork and reduce the overall reporting time for drivers. They also take away some of the stress of staying FMCSA compliant and add driving time to your day since paper logs require you to round up driving time by 15-minute increments; ELDs allow drivers to record their hours of service (HOS) to the nearest minute.

Trucking apps

Nearly everyone has access to a smartphone or tablet and understands the convenience they can offer. For professional drivers, this convenience extends even further. Apps like The Weather Channel give drivers insight into driving conditions specific to their exact location at the exact moment, reducing stress and making their time on the road even smoother. Additionally, apps like Pilot Flying J give drivers access to shower reservations, special discounts, and more.

Driver comfort tech

As technology has become more and more advanced, there have been great strides in tech that make drivers’ lives more convenient and comfortable. Devices like Wi-Fi boosters, Bluetooth capabilities, and improved communication systems have helped keep drivers connected and aware. Other technologies like seats that reduce pressure points, ambient LED lights, and cab heaters/parked HVAC systems have made drivers’ time on the road more comfortable.

Explore driving careers with the convenience and comfort of Freymiller and make the most out of your time on the road!

It can be tough being on the road and wanting something to munch on that will quiet your rumbling tummy but also be easy to grab and healthy, too. We’ve done research on the most efficient, nutritious, and tasty snacks for CDL-A drivers this summer. Here are the top six snacks to keep in your cab.

Fresh fruit/vegetables

Summer is prime time for most fresh produce, making it the perfect time to grab it for an easy, on-the-go snack. Bananas, oranges, apples, peaches, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers are readily available at most grocery stores, leave little to no mess, and help you get nutrients essential to a balanced diet.

Jerky

While incorporating fresh produce into your diet is important, getting healthy sources of protein is just as essential. The best way to include more protein in your diet while also being totally snackable? Jerky!. It usually comes prepackaged in a resealable bag, and you don’t have to worry about a quickly approaching expiration date. You’re sure to find a flavor that suits your palate from beef to turkey, elk, and even buffalo.

Tuna packs

If you try to avoid more traditional forms of meat, tuna is an alternative way to increase your diet’s protein and even provide essential omega-three fatty acids. Tuna pouches simplify the eating process and make it a great snack option. These don’t require refrigeration and stay fresh for a while like jerky. Enjoy a lemon pepper, ranch, honey BBQ, or Thai Chili style flavor pouch, and expect to feel fulfilled until your next meal!

Mixed nuts

If we were ranking these, mixed nuts just might go at the top of our list. Easy to snack on, healthy, and available at most gas stations/grocery stores, these are ideal for snacking. Some mixed nuts packages even come with dried cranberries, raisins, and chocolate to balance out the flavor palate. If you prefer a more intense flavoring, some packages are seasoned to taste like buffalo sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.

Granola bars

Like mixed nuts, this food was basically made for snacking. They come prepackaged in groups of two to solve any troubles of portion control and are an easy way to get your daily serving of oats, which are packed full of heart-healthy vitamins and aid in regulating your central nervous system.

Popcorn

While we know this one can skew to the unhealthy side if you’re not careful, there are a lot of great options for popcorn as an on-the-road snack! You can buy it pre-popped, flavored anything from white cheddar to kettle corn and save the effort of popping it yourself. But, if you’re really craving a warm snack, a freshly popped bag of popcorn is the way to go! To make it healthier, skip the butter and top it with some flavoring powder.

The next step in fueling up for a good summer? Partnering with a carrier that cares about your success! Connect with us today to learn more about our driving opportunities.