Preparing for Summer, Mullet-Style
Believe it or not,
summer is slightly less than two months away, and with the weeks flying by, now
is the perfect time to start preparing for the challenges and opportunities
transportation professionals face during the warmer season. If you are an experienced
driver, the changing seasons are nothing new, and preparation may seem natural
and obvious. But, with impending CSA 2010 regulations,
currently unpredictable weather and an awakening economy, even the most
seasoned drivers should stop and clean out the cobwebs before the inevitable
heat arrives.
To jump-start the
season, we're taking a mullet approach to the summer: business in the front,
party in the back! By finding a balance between work and play, you can make the
most of the long, hot days just around the corner.
BUSINESS IN THE FRONT
Just like swapping out
sweaters for t-shirts once the heat hits, some aspects of summer preparation
for hitting the road come naturally. But, a good checklist and refreshed
awareness helps keep routine responsibilities from being overlooked and offers
new tasks that will ensure you are prepared for changes in the temperature -
and the industry.
Get your Truck Ready for Summer
Winter can be hard on your rig/s, but summer
brings new challenges. Make sure you do a complete evaluation of your truck -
from engine to tires - to help ensure you aren't wasting fuel and won't be
stranded once the heat strikes.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Traffic
Nothing stops an efficient haul like highways
backed up with vacationing families. Whenever possible, plan your trips to
avoid areas that will be backed up during key travel times, such as routes that
connect major cities to popular beaches.
Ensure You are Ready for CSA 2010
The regulations roll out in November, and new
clarification is coming out all the time. Because Getloaded.com is committed to
helping our members unravel and understand CSA 2010, each Friday
our blog will discuss a new section of the seven Behavior Analysis Safety
Improvement Categories (BASICs) truckers will be judged by, in addition to our
regular posts about trucking freight and the transportation industry. If you've
heard CSA 2010 rumors that make your blood boil or just don't know where to
turn for clear, concrete answers, check out our weekly posts to get the common
sense information you need.
Prepare for Natural Disasters
When it comes to Mother Nature, no amount of
professional experience can protect you from natural disasters. Whether you are
an owner-operator or carrier with multiple drivers, recognizing the threats to
your business is imperative. Think about what would happen if an Act of God
were to wipe out your assets - are you prepared for the ramifications that
could follow? The summer brings many types of extreme weather - from floods to
tornadoes - and now is the time to ensure you are protected. Before it's too
late:
·
Reevaluate your
insurance
·
Create a disaster
preparedness plan
·
Back up your data
You can find online advice and suggestions at
disastersafety.org and ready.gov/business.
PARTY IN THE BACK
Sure, you have to
protect your future, but planning for summer isn't all about business. There
are a lot of great truck-themed events coming up, too. The top three on our
radar are:
Walcott Trucker's
Jamboree
July 8 - 9
Walcott Trucker's
Jamboree is held at the largest truck stop in the world, I-80 exit 24, in
Walcott, Iowa. Whether you've not yet attended or are already a regular, come
enjoy two action-packed days filled with events like the Iowa Pork Chop Cook
Out and Tracy Lawrence in concert. Want to really be a part of the event? Prove
that your rig does more than haul freight by registering in the Super Truck Beauty Contest today. Entry is free
and glory is eternal.
Waupun Truck-n-Show
August 13 - 14
Held in Waupin, WI,
since 1989, the Waupun Truck-n-Show now gathers truckers from all over the
country. The event features the nation's largest truck parade, over 50
exhibitors and family friendly activities. On the second night, you can even
enjoy a dance with nonstop music from 7:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. Check out
www.waupuntruckshow.com to learn more!
Great American Trucking
Show
August 26 - 28
Popularly known as GATS,
this huge trucking trade show draws crowds from across North America with
educational seminars, vendors and concerts featuring some of country music's
leading stars. Stay up-to-date with industry developments while enjoying great
times in Dallas, Texas.
No matter where you find
yourself on the road this summer, don't forget to combine diligent preparation
with enough good times - and enjoy the mullet approach to life.
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