Author: Christina DeBusk

7 self-care tips to get you through the busy holiday season

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

The holiday season can be great in that it allows us to spend more time with the people we love. It can also be not-so-great by adding more to our already busy schedules. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in shopping for food and gifts, planning gatherings and cleaning before our guests arrive that taking care of ourselves often gets pushed aside.

However, practicing self-care is even more important when faced with the additional stress that holidays often bring. When we look after our health and wellness, it makes it easier to deal with whatever extra tasks are put on our to-do list. It also makes the days seem lighter because we don’t feel quite so weighted down.

Here are seven self-care tips that can help create this type of effect.

Manage your expectations

In a perfect world, the holidays come and go without any challenges. In reality, plans get changed last minute, guests arrive sooner (or later) than anticipated and the oven malfunctions in the middle of cooking your family’s favorite dessert.

Expecting that you will face some issues along the way can keep you from being surprised when they occur. It also allows you to bounce back more quickly because you knew they were coming.

Divide and conquer

A lot of people struggle with asking for help. At the same time, they’re also the first ones who are willing to help others—and they do this without a thought. If this sounds like you, remember that giving someone else the opportunity to help you enables them to feel as good as you do when helping others.

Divide your list into tasks that you need to do yourself and tasks you can pass off. Then ask others in your house or social circle to help with the things on the second list. This enables you to conquer more in less time, and you can use this saved time to do more of these tips, enjoy the company of those around you, or simply sit by yourself for a moment.

Don’t skimp on sleep

When you’re tired, it becomes harder to deal with even the tiniest of disruptions or hurdles. Being sleep-deprived can also cause you to snap at family and friends due to your patience being thin. The Sleep Foundation recommends that most adults get 7-9 hours of rest per night.

Aim to get this amount most (if not all) nights of the week. This may require going to bed earlier than you’re used to or shortening your to-do list so your days aren’t so long. But the payoff will be there in how much better you feel.

Set aside time for yourself every single day

This self-care tip may seem impossible during the busiest time of the year. Yet, you don’t have to set aside a lot of time to feel benefits to your mental health. Even five minutes doing something that makes you feel good is often enough to lighten your mood. Every morning when you wake up, give yourself five minutes to sit with your coffee quietly and organize your thoughts.

At lunch, spend five minutes doing breathing exercises to energize you for the afternoon. End your day by writing in a gratitude journal for five minutes to remind you of all the things you are thankful for.

Get active (even without exercise)

Exercise causes your body to release endorphins. These are hormones that help you feel good. But you don’t need an all-out sweat session to enjoy exercise’s mental health benefits. Really, any physical activity will do.

If you don’t like to work out, take the dog for a walk around the block a couple of times each day or head outside and build a snowman with the kids. Household chores also count as physical activity, helping you to feel better while also wiping items off your to-do list.

Keep up with your physical health routines

If you don’t feel good physically, it’s tough to feel good mentally. The brain and the body are so interconnected that when you take care of one, you’re taking care of the other. This means sticking to any doctor’s appointments you may have and also taking time off if you feel ill.

Stay up on your medications and don’t forget to take your vitamins. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, plan meals and snacks around foods that are high in nutrients and do a few stretches to relax your body at the end of the day.

Take time to breathe

When you feel the holiday stress start to creep up, take a few minutes to close your eyes and breathe in. Feel the air as it enters your nostrils slowly. Hold the breath in your lungs for a count of four. Then, release the breath out of your mouth, feeling the weight of the world exit your body with it.

Do this a few times and it can help you feel more centered. It also slows your brain and body down enough so that you can enjoy the holiday season a bit too.

Worried about holiday winter driving? Read our tips to stay safe this season here.

7 self-care tips to get you through the busy holiday season

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

The holiday season can be great in that it allows us to spend more time with the people we love. It can also be not-so-great by adding more to our already busy schedules. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in shopping for food and gifts, planning gatherings and cleaning before our guests arrive that taking care of ourselves often gets pushed aside.

However, practicing self-care is even more important when faced with the additional stress that holidays often bring. When we look after our health and wellness, it makes it easier to deal with whatever extra tasks are put on our to-do list. It also makes the days seem lighter because we don’t feel quite so weighted down.

Here are seven self-care tips that can help create this type of effect.

Manage your expectations

In a perfect world, the holidays come and go without any challenges. In reality, plans get changed last minute, guests arrive sooner (or later) than anticipated and the oven malfunctions in the middle of cooking your family’s favorite dessert.

Expecting that you will face some issues along the way can keep you from being surprised when they occur. It also allows you to bounce back more quickly because you knew they were coming.

Divide and conquer

A lot of people struggle with asking for help. At the same time, they’re also the first ones who are willing to help others—and they do this without a thought. If this sounds like you, remember that giving someone else the opportunity to help you enables them to feel as good as you do when helping others.

Divide your list into tasks that you need to do yourself and tasks you can pass off. Then ask others in your house or social circle to help with the things on the second list. This enables you to conquer more in less time, and you can use this saved time to do more of these tips, enjoy the company of those around you, or simply sit by yourself for a moment.

Don’t skimp on sleep

When you’re tired, it becomes harder to deal with even the tiniest of disruptions or hurdles. Being sleep-deprived can also cause you to snap at family and friends due to your patience being thin. The Sleep Foundation recommends that most adults get 7-9 hours of rest per night.

Aim to get this amount most (if not all) nights of the week. This may require going to bed earlier than you’re used to or shortening your to-do list so your days aren’t so long. But the payoff will be there in how much better you feel.

Set aside time for yourself every single day

This self-care tip may seem impossible during the busiest time of the year. Yet, you don’t have to set aside a lot of time to feel benefits to your mental health. Even five minutes doing something that makes you feel good is often enough to lighten your mood. Every morning when you wake up, give yourself five minutes to sit with your coffee quietly and organize your thoughts.

At lunch, spend five minutes doing breathing exercises to energize you for the afternoon. End your day by writing in a gratitude journal for five minutes to remind you of all the things you are thankful for.

Get active (even without exercise)

Exercise causes your body to release endorphins. These are hormones that help you feel good. But you don’t need an all-out sweat session to enjoy exercise’s mental health benefits. Really, any physical activity will do.

If you don’t like to work out, take the dog for a walk around the block a couple of times each day or head outside and build a snowman with the kids. Household chores also count as physical activity, helping you to feel better while also wiping items off your to-do list.

Keep up with your physical health routines

If you don’t feel good physically, it’s tough to feel good mentally. The brain and the body are so interconnected that when you take care of one, you’re taking care of the other. This means sticking to any doctor’s appointments you may have and also taking time off if you feel ill.

Stay up on your medications and don’t forget to take your vitamins. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, plan meals and snacks around foods that are high in nutrients and do a few stretches to relax your body at the end of the day.

Take time to breathe

When you feel the holiday stress start to creep up, take a few minutes to close your eyes and breathe in. Feel the air as it enters your nostrils slowly. Hold the breath in your lungs for a count of four. Then, release the breath out of your mouth, feeling the weight of the world exit your body with it.

Do this a few times and it can help you feel more centered. It also slows your brain and body down enough so that you can enjoy the holiday season a bit too.

5 things drivers can do to improve their mental health

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Mental health is a “major issue” in the driver shortage problem that many nations are now facing, according to a 2020 study in the International Journal of Logistics Research and Applications. Although, past research indicates that this is not a new revelation.

Driver mental health is a long-standing concern

A study conducted a decade ago noted that more than one four of the 316 truck drivers surveyed experienced loneliness and depression. One in five reported chronic sleep disturbances and more than one in 10 had anxiety and other emotional problems.

Some of these mental health issues are related to driving oftentimes being a profession that involves spending a lot of time alone. Others are likely a result of the nature of the job, which can include dealing with traffic issues all day, sleeping away from home (for long-haul drivers) and striving to meet tight delivery deadlines.

Our State of Trucking survey showed similar results—with 3 out of 4 drivers stating they think fatigue is a big problem within the industry.  

How drivers can improve mental health

While some of these issues will exist regardless, they don’t have to harm a driver’s mental health. There are many actions truck drivers can take to feel better emotionally. Here are five to consider:

  • Stay in touch with loved ones throughout the day. One way to not feel so alone when driving is to keep in touch with your spouse, parents, kids, and other family members when you’re on the road. Give them a call or send them a text when you stop for a break or lunch. This helps remind you that you’re not truly alone in this world because you have a lot of people who care for you.
  • Connect with other truck drivers. It can feel good to spend time with people who are experiencing the same issues or concerns as you. That’s part of what makes support groups so powerful. Connect with other truck drivers who understand how you feel. Meet up for lunch if you can or set aside a few hours on a day off to share how you’re doing. This helps build camaraderie while also making you feel better mentally.
  • Listen to inspirational podcasts. Instead of listening to news radio talk about all that is wrong with the world, turn on an uplifting podcast. You may even begin to look forward to your drive time because it allows you to listen to someone who can inspire you to feel better or to work toward the best version of yourself. One to consider is Gretchen Rubin’s Happier Podcast. The author of several New York Times bestsellers, Rubin shares tips for increasing your happiness in several different ways.
  • Admit when you are struggling. There is no shame in feeling depressed or anxious. In fact, these are two of the most common mental health issues experienced. Admitting when you are feeling a certain way is the first step. Talk to your spouse, a good friend or a member of your church about how you are feeling. Sometimes just letting it out is enough to make you feel better. It also gives the people in your life the opportunity to step up and support you so you don’t have to face these issues alone.
  • Know when to seek help. The good news about mental health is that many issues are highly treatable. In some cases, this might involve talking to a therapist to learn coping skills or identify your triggers. It may also involve taking medication to help correct chemical imbalances that may be contributing to how you feel. If you’ve tried to improve your mental health but nothing seems to work, or you’ve been struggling with depression, anxiety, or another issue for some time without relief, talking to a professional can get you on the road to recovery.

Convenient mental health help for truck drivers

When you spend your days on the road, it’s not always convenient to seek help. Nowadays, many mental health providers offer virtual visits. This enables you to get the help you need while on your lunch break, for instance, as opposed to trying to get a day off.

Many health insurance carriers even offer discounts for online visits. Your benefits administrator can help find resources covered by your policy. If you don’t have mental health or behavioral health coverage, online counseling services such as BetterHelp and Talkspace may be options to consider.

If you feel like you are going to harm yourself, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is always available simply by dialing 988. It is free of cost and provides confidential access to resources designed to better address how you feel.

Want more lifestyle and mental health content, please visit our content library here.

4 ways to prevent carpal tunnel in truck drivers

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

The carpal tunnel is a small tunnel or passageway found in the wrist that houses the median nerve. If this passageway narrows—such as through repetitive hand use or by keeping the hand and wrist in the same position for a long time, like when truck driving—it can result in carpal tunnel syndrome. 

With carpal syndrome, pressure is placed on the median nerve and blood supply is reduced to the hand. The result is pain, weakness, tingling and numbness. How can you prevent carpal tunnel syndrome when you drive truck for a living? Here are four options to consider.

Watch your hand and wrist position

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons shares that one of the main causes of carpal tunnel is “extreme flexion or extension of the hand and wrist for a prolonged period of time.” Look at the position of your hands and wrists while driving.

Are they flexed or extended unnecessarily? Modifying how you hold your wrists so they aren’t in extreme positions can help prevent carpal tunnel.

Wear a wrist brace

If you find that it’s hard to remember to check your hand and wrist position regularly, or you simply want a bit of reinforcement, a wrist brace can help. Wear the brace while driving to stop your wrist from being in a position that causes more pressure on the carpal tunnel.

The brace can also be worn at other times when your wrist position may be compromised, such as when sleeping or if using the computer for long periods.

Take regular breaks

The longer your hands and wrists are in the same position, the greater your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Taking frequent breaks gives the carpal tunnel and all the tissues around it time to relax.

Even if you can’t relax both hands at the same time, alternating one and then the other can give each wrist more time to recover, albeit at different times.

Perform wrist stretches

Another way to prevent carpal tunnel, according to the National Institutes of Health, is to perform exercises designed to stretch the wrist area. These can help reduce the tension and inflammation that causes this tunnel to narrow. Exercises to try include:

  • Wrist extension stretch: Extend your right arm in front of you, as if trying to stop an approaching car. Use your left hand to gently pull your right fingers toward you. You should feel a stretch on the underside of your forearm. Hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat 3 to 5 times, then perform the same stretch on the other arm.
  • Wrist flexion stretch: In this exercise, the right arm is extended in front like with the wrist extension stretch. However, instead of the fingers pointing toward the ceiling, they are pointing toward the floor (as if extending your hand for someone to kiss). Using the left hand, gently pull the fingers toward the body. Again, you should feel a stretch in the forearm, except this stretch will be more on the outside of the forearm than the inside. Hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat 3 to 5 times, then switch to the other side.
  • Wrist lift: Place one hand on a table or counter, palm down. Put the other hand on top of it so the fingers on the top hand are perpendicular to the fingers on the bottom hand. Try to lift the bottom hand while stopping the lift with the top hand. Hold for a few seconds and release. Do this exercise 3 to 5 times, then repeat with the other hand on the bottom.
  • Hand squeeze: You know those stress balls? They aren’t just good for getting your tension out. They also help prevent carpal tunnel by strengthening the forearm and wrist. Grab the ball, squeeze it for a few seconds and release. Do this exercise 5 to 10 times, then switch to the other hand.

Doing these four things can help prevent carpal tunnel while driving truck. Make them a part of your regular workday to get all the benefits that each provides.

Want more wellness and lifestyle content? Check out our content library here. 

Veteran transition programs: What they are and benefits they offer

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

In January 2022, almost nine million veterans were looking for full-time work according to Military Times. For those just finishing active duty, this is just one step of many in returning to the life they began to create before enlisting or being deployed. Veteran transition programs can assist with this, providing benefits to military service members and employers alike. 

What is a veteran transition program?

Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be an adjustment. Veteran transition programs assist with this process, helping service members who are leaving active duty as they re-acclimate to home, family, work, and everything else that comes with living outside of a military environment.

How these programs help veterans

One of the most basic ways these programs help veterans is by offering guidance and support. They also educate the veteran about the programs that are available to them as they after returning from active duty.

For instance, if a veteran is struggling with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the program could connect them with mental health resources. If the veteran needs housing, schooling, or job placement assistance, the program could help find resources for these needs as well.

Veteran transition programs aren’t just for the vets either. Many provide information, assistance, and resource connections for the veteran’s family members since having their loved one return from the military is a transition or adjustment for them as well.

Benefits to employers

When a service member has an easier time returning to civilian life, it shows up in their work. They aren’t as distracted by the struggles of reacclimating to society, enabling them to focus on their job functions. 

If a service member has a hard time making the transition, it can also show up in their mental health. They may battle feelings of depression, anxiety, and more. These issues can cause them to call in sick more often and negatively affect their productivity.
Veteran transition program options

Veteran transition program options 

Many different agencies offer transition assistance programs, sometimes referred to as TAPs. Among them are: 

  • Troops Into Transportation. Veterans interested in driving truck can work with Troops Into Transportation to earn their CDL. This program is approved for vets who qualify for the GI Bill and aims to get veterans hired before they even begin their CDL training. 
  • VA TAP. Offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this is a one-day online program that helps veterans learn how to navigate their benefits. It also informs the service member of other VA services and resources available for transitioning to civilian life. This includes community integration resources, mental health resources, and insurance and disability options. 
  • Department of Labor TAP. This one-day program is offered through the Department of Labor and helps veterans explore career options and/or prepare for a career or general employment.  In this TAP, vets gain access to information, tools, and training to help them take their desired career path. Depending on location, the veteran may also have access to one-on-one employee assistance.  
  • DoD TAP. The Department of Defense offers its own TAP that provides training, services, and opportunities for service members transitioning out of active duty. This program begins no later than one year before the service member’s transition begins and starts with a personal self-assessment. Once complete, pre-separation counseling commences, as does a one-day employment brief. The service member can also take an additional two days of instruction to learn more about employment, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities. 
  • VFW Transition & Employment Services. The VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) provides several resources for veterans. This includes information related to veterans’ rights, business outreach, employment, and more. The VFW also provides an extra benefit for vets who are interested in working in the skilled trades. Its Veteran Employment Tools (VET) Program provides a custom Snap-on tool kit to 20 veterans interested in starting a career as an automotive technician. 
  • USO Pathfinder Transition Program. The USO offers transition assistance that focuses on employment, education, financial readiness, mentorship, and increased access to benefits available to veterans in their communities. In this program, the service member works directly with transition specialists either in person or virtually to create a personalized transition plan. 
  • The Catalyst Program. Veterans and spouses learn how to translate their experience from the military into the benefits they bring to companies. The Catalyst combines traditional in-class education, on-the-job shadowing, business training and intense networking to allow for a successful transition out of the military for Veterans and spouses. 

How companies can assist with veteran transition 

Companies can help employees who are returning from active duty by making sure they are aware of veteran program options. Giving veterans the contact information for each program (such as a website link or phone number) can make it easier for the vet to make the connection. 

It can also be helpful to have a member of your human resources team who is knowledgeable about veteran issues, needs, and programs meet with the new veteran. A one-on-one approach lets the vet know that they are cared for by the company. It also gives them someone to reach out to if they have concerns or need additional help. 

Scheduling regular sessions with the veteran to see how they are acclimating to civilian life can further strengthen the employer-employee bond. If the company offers insurance or wellness benefits that include mental health counseling, making them aware of this option also gives them a professional to turn to if they are struggling in certain areas. 

At Centerline, we pride ourselves on helping veterans transition to the civilian workforce and finding them trucking jobs. We can help your company find qualified veterans to keep your company moving forward. Learn more and request drivers here.

Top truck stops in the U.S.

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

When you drive for a living, finding a good truck stop is like finding a restaurant that offers both great food and amazing service. You cannot wait to come back again. What U.S.-based truck stops can help inspire this type of feeling in professional drivers? It depends on what you’re looking for.

Multiple locations, numerous amenities

There are a few chain truck stops that have multiple locations with numerous amenities at each one. This can be beneficial if you get comfort from knowing what to expect whether you are stopping for a quick break or want to rest for several hours. Two chains to consider are Pilot Flying J and Love’s Travel Stops.

Pilot Flying J

Pilot Flying J offers more than 750 locations across 44 states. So, no matter where your routes take you, you’re likely to see one of these stops somewhere along the way.

In addition to getting more fuel or picking up some food and drink, many Pilot Flying J stops offer access to CAT-certified scales, ATMs, check cashing services, WiFi (subscriptions start at $19.99 per month), game rooms, public laundry facilities, showers and restrooms. Some locations have truck wash and Western Union services as well. You can also turn off your engine and still enjoy heat, air and standard electric in your cab with this stop’s Idle Air service.

If you’ve ever pulled into a truck stop to park for a while only to find that there isn’t room for your rig, Pilot Flying J helps prevent this by enabling you to reserve a parking spot in advance. You can also download the myRewards Plus app and earn free food, drinks and merchandise. The app also allows you to start the fueling process without leaving your cab.

Love’s Travel Stops

There are 590 Love’s Travel Stops spanning 41 U.S. states. Each location provides drivers access to fuel, food and drinks, electronics, WiFi (basic is free for rewards members with premium internet available at a cost) and a variety of travel items.

This truck stop chain also has an app you can use to find the nearest location, reserve a shower and save money on many of its products and services. The Love’s Connect App also enables you to activate the fuel pump from your cab.

Each Love’s location has technicians on hand for servicing your truck. They can provide a variety of preventative maintenance services, some of which include changing the oil, changing oil and fuel filters, testing the nitrite level in the truck’s coolant and inspecting the brakes.  

Unique truck stops across the U.S.

In addition to Pilot Flying J and Love’s Travel Stops, there are a few other truck stops in America that have earned a spot on the most sought-after or most popular places to visit when looking for a truck stop due to their individuality, uniqueness, and available services. Among them are:

  • Iowa 80 Truckstop (Walcott, Iowa): offers fuel, 900 parking spots, food and restaurants, laundry, private shower facilities, CAT scales, truck wash and maintenance, a den to socialize with other drivers, library, movie theater, barber shop, pet wash, workout room, dental office and chiropractic services
  • Bert’s Truck Plaza (Wellsville, Kansas): offers fuel, a large parking area, truck washes, a driver’s lounge, private showers, laundry machines, convenience store items, clean restrooms and fresh-cooked food
  • Jubitz Travel Center (Portland, Oregon): offers fuel, a convenience store, 24-hour access to scales, the ability to reserve a parking spot, WiFi, truck wash, driver’s lounge, movie theater, private showers, laundromat, dog wash, jacuzzi, barber shop, postal service and drug testing (both DOT and non-DOT)
  • Little America Travel Center (Flagstaff, Arizona): offers fuel, hotel accommodations, driver’s lounge, scales, access to shipping companies (UPS, USPS, and Federal Express), food, groceries, fax services, ATM, laundry, truck tools, truck maintenance and private showers with an oversized tub
  • Dysart’s Restaurant & Truck Stop (Bangor, Maine): offers fuel, food, groceries, showers, postal services, truck maintenance and repairs, a dog park and clean restrooms
  • Boise Stage Stop (Boise, Idaho): offers fuel, large shower rooms (with separate shower and tub), theater room, arcade, free satellite TV, laundry machines, and a convenience store with food, medicines, electronics, gifts and more
  • Big Apple Travel Center (Joplin, Missouri): offers fuel, authentic Indian cuisine, other food and drink options, showers, charging stations and WiFi

If your route goes through any of these cities or towns, you might want to try one of these truck stops out!

New DOT Regulations 2022: What’s changed this year?

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Every industry has regulations, trucking included. Staying current with new DOT regulations is important to getting and staying legally compliant.

This requires also staying updated on changes as they are implemented. The following DOT rules and regulations are new in 2022. 

Lower age of entry into the driving profession

Traditionally, people had to wait until they turned 21 to apply for a CDL. Under the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot (SDAP) Program, people between the ages of 18 and 20 now have this option.

The SDAP Program was established on January 14, 2022, and allows some individuals who are older than 17 but under the age of 21 to engage in a three-year driving apprenticeship. Applications are not yet being accepted for this program. Once it is put in place, individuals will be able to apply via a motor carrier approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

New training requirements for entry-level CDL holders

In the past, driver training was not required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) endorsement. However, due to new DOT regulations, this has changed effective February 7, 2022.

The FMCSA shares that entry-level driver training (ELDT) is now a requirement before an individual falling in the category of “entry-level driver” can take certain CDL skills and knowledge tests. This includes individuals who:

  • Are obtaining a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
  • Are upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A
  • Are seeking to obtain one of the following endorsements: school bus (S), passenger (P) or hazardous materials (H)

If you’re unsure whether ELDT is required for you or your drivers, the FMCSA provides a helpful scenario chart to help you know for sure.

Closed gap in drug and alcohol violation reporting

Technically, this change occurred on October 7, 2021. However, compliance with this final rule—which is also referred to as the Clearinghouse-II final rule, is not required until November 18, 2024. So, while it’s not a a new DOT regulation for 2022, it is worth mentioning here.

In October, the FMCSA posted an amendment outlining changes related to the access and use of the information contained within the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. The goal of these changes is to help improve highway safety by closing the knowledge gap that exists between the FMCSA and State Driver’s Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) when a driver receives a drug or alcohol program violation.

Under the FMCSA’s amendment, SDLAs cannot issue, renew, change, upgrade or transfer a CDL or CLP (commercial learner’s permit) for a driver with one or more drug or alcohol violations. Additionally, SDLAs must remove CDL and/or CLP privileges from the license of a person who is legally prohibited from having these designations for reasons related to drugs and alcohol violations until they’ve met all of the return-to-duty requirements.

Prohibition from asking about criminal history too early in the hiring process

This is another change that became effective last year, on December 20, 2021. But is important to mention here since this act was implemented a mere 11 days before the start of 2022.

Under the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (FCA), a federal employer hiring for jobs within the legislative branch cannot ask a job applicant about their criminal history before extending a conditional job offer. This means you can’t ask the candidate if they’ve ever been arrested or convicted of any type of crime until you’re ready to hire them.

The FCA was put into place to help formerly incarcerated people get a fair shake when applying for a job. That said, CDL drivers applying for a federal position can still be searched through the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, which may help uncover these types of offenses.

These are just some of the trucking regulation changes made in recent months. Staying current on modifications such as these can help you and your team remain fully compliant with all mandatory regulations, whether long-standing or if they’ve just been put into place.

Curious about more compliance changes in trucking? Check out our 2022 compliance guide here.  Or download our free DOT compliance checklist here. 

Safety incentive programs: Why your company needs one & how to get started

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Workplace wellness programs. Diversity and inclusion programs. Employee reward programs. The idea of creating one more workplace program may make you wonder where it all ends.

However, there is great value in creating a safety incentive program—especially for companies that employ drivers. Here, we talk about what this type of program looks like and the benefits it provides for transportation businesses. We also offer a few tips for getting a safety incentive program off the ground.

What is a safety incentive program?

As its name indicates, a safety incentive program is a program that incentivizes workers to take actions that promote safety in the workplace. Essentially, it provides some type of reward for actively engaging in workplace safety protocol.

In some cases, a safety incentive program is injury or illness-based. For instance, the company may reward employees if the number of workplace injuries stays below a certain amount.

The program can also be behavior-based. An example of this would be to reward employees who engage in the required safety protocol for a certain number of days in a row.

Safety incentive program benefits for transportation businesses

At a minimum, an injured employee is limited in their work abilities. Worst case scenario, they’re off work completely. So, incentivizing workplace safety is one way to keep more employees on the job.

Another benefit of a safety incentive program is that it reduces the costs that occur when safety isn’t a concern. If a driver fails to secure their load, for instance, your company faces a host of expenses. Among them are:

· Medical costs for your driver and anyone else injured should the load unexpectedly release

· Damage costs to your truck, any other vehicles struck, and any other property damaged

· Court costs should an innocent party sue your company for failure to enforce safe transportation protocol

Failure to make safety a priority can also harm your reputation. If you become known as a company that doesn’t seem to care about the safety of its employees or those potentially impacted by unsafe workplace practices, other companies may decide not to do business with you. Consumers might revolt as well, boycotting any company that uses your services—which tends to happen more regularly in today’s cancel culture.

Reinforcing employee safety can even help boost retention. If an employee feels that the company supports a safe work environment, your business becomes a more desirable place to work. Their family has greater peace of mind as well, safe in the knowledge that their loved one isn’t at great risk simply from clocking in for work.

How to create a safety incentive program

When creating a safety incentive program, it helps to first consider where any existing issues lie. Are workers in certain positions getting injured at a higher rate? Does the operation of a specific piece of equipment tend to be a regular safety issue?

Next, consider your areas with the greatest risk. Make a list of the departments or positions within your company that are the most susceptible to problems if safety is not enforced. Think also about the equipment that poses the greatest safety risks.

It can also be helpful to consider what workplace safety looks like in a perfect world. What actions would your employees be taking every single day if safety was a priority? Would your drivers not exceed a certain speed or wear their seat belts? What would their truck safety inspection look like before even leaving the lot?

Information collected from these three steps—considering your current safety issues, knowing where the company is most at risk and what a safe work environment looks like—will help dictate the actions and behaviors you want to reward. The next step is to decide what those rewards will be.

Ideas to consider include:

  • Branded apparel that recognizes the safety achievement (such as a jacket that, under your logo, says “5 Years of Safe Practices”)
  • Recognition at a workplace meeting or in the company newsletter
  • Income bonus payments for each year safety is achieved
  • Gift certificate to a local restaurant
  • Tickets for a major event

Come up with a few smaller rewards that employees can strive for regularly, such as monthly, quarterly or bi-annually. Also include bigger rewards to recognize those that maintain safe practices every year, every 5 years or every 10 years.

There are several benefits of taking the steps needed to create a safe work environment, such as ours at Centerline. A safety incentive program helps reinforce safety as a priority, making your company not only a good place to work but also a company that is admired community-wide. 

Not sure how to get drivers to motivate your drivers to follow your safety program? Here are a few tips to get you started. 

Want more safety tips? Download our free driver safety guide here.

Last mile logistics: What it is and how you can master it

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Last mile logistics is a supply chain management term that refers to the last leg of a product’s physical journey from a warehouse, distribution center, or transportation hub to the end customer (which can be a business or person). It’s common for companies to hire smaller carriers for this final portion of the trip.

For example, while Amazon may use a variety of transportation methods to move its goods from one fulfillment center to another, it often contracts with independent delivery organizations such as USPS, FedEx, and UPS to get these goods from the fulfillment centers into customers’ hands. These smaller carriers are responsible for making the final delivery of the parcel or package.

Although its name literally talks about the last mile, the distance covered in last mile logistics can be 20, 50, or even 100 miles or more. So, this supply chain term isn’t so much about the distance traveled as it is about the very last step in product delivery.

Why last mile delivery is important

One reason that it’s important for companies to think about last mile logistics is customer satisfaction and loyalty. It doesn’t matter how good other portions of your company are—maybe you make the highest-quality or lowest-cost goods—if you can’t get your products to the customers with speed and efficiency, they may take their business to a company that can.

At the same time, paying attention to last mile logistics is critical to your bottom line. An estimated 53% of total shipping costs are a result of last mile delivery. If these costs aren’t scrutinized and minimized when possible, they can rise even higher, eating up more of the company’s profits.

How to master last mile logistics

The use of delivery management software can help companies master last mile logistics. This type of technology can be used to increase transportation efficiency while improving the customer experience. It also provides the opportunity to see where a particular package is every step of the way, making it easier to see if a problem exists or to answer customers’ questions about where their parcel is and when it is expected to arrive. This is helpful when managing both on-demand and scheduled delivery services.

When considering last mile delivery options, companies can look to traditional services such as FedEx and UPS. Another alternative is to partner with independent couriers (self-employed couriers not affiliated with a specific delivery service), paying them to get your packages to the customers by transporting them in their own vehicles.

By hiring independent couriers, your company is provided the benefits of an on-demand delivery service. If your delivery needs are increased during the busy season, you simply hire more couriers. During downtimes, you hire fewer couriers. Yet, the one problem with this approach is that since the drivers don’t work with you directly, they may not adhere to your company’s standards.

One way around this, and a third option for last mile logistics, is to invest in a fleet of trucks and hire your own drivers. The benefit of this approach is that you have increased control over the delivery process. It also helps ensure that your packages are treated with the level of respect and care that you expect.

Finding the right drivers for this final delivery leg is important to upholding your company’s level of customer service. Centerline can help with this by connecting you with delivery drivers who understand the value of an effective delivery process—a process that meets the company’s needs while exceeding customer expectations at the same time.

Contact us today to learn more about our delivery driver solution or to discuss how we can help you make last mile delivery more efficient and more profitable.

Drivers: Are you regularly testing your eyesight?

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Part of being a responsible driver is making sure your truck is safe for the road. It’s also important to stay updated on the latest driving laws.

But one responsibility you may not be thinking about as a person who drives for a living is more health-related, and it is your eyesight.

Importance of eyesight and driving safety

To obtain a regular driver’s license, you must have at least 20/40 vision to be able to operate a vehicle without contacts or glasses. This means that if the average person can see a certain amount of detail at 20 feet away, you need to be able to see that same level of detail at 40 feet away.

The U.S. Department of Transportation shares that 20/40 vision is also a requirement for drivers of commercial motor vehicles. This is especially important as commercial vehicles are often bigger and heavier than other vehicles on the road. Being able to see any hazards or other safety issues in advance allows you, the driver, to take action early enough to potentially avoid an accident.

Other factors can impact your ability to safely navigate your driving routes. Research reveals that visual constrictions of 10 to 15 degrees can increase your accident risk, for instance, making it harder to see and quickly react to a person or animal that suddenly jumps on the road.

Individuals with color blindness may find it more difficult to know whether a traffic light is red, yellow, or green. Peripheral vision, depth perception, and night vision can also all impact driving safety.

Regular eyesight checks a requirement for truck drivers

After obtaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL), you might not give your eyesight another thought. However, a vision test is required to keep your CDL active. So, be prepared to take and pass this test every two years or your license may not be renewed.

Seeing the eye doctor regularly helps you know whether your eyesight is good enough to pass the vision test. It also gives you the opportunity to resolve any issues that may prevent you from securing or updating your driver’s license or CDL. You might need glasses or contacts, for example, to get your vision to the required standards.

Additional benefits of checking your vision regularly

Having your vision checked regularly isn’t just important to your safety while on the road or for meeting licensing requirements. It can also potentially prevent your eyesight issues from getting worse. The sooner you can tend to a problem, the better your ability to treat it effectively. Let it go too long and you may not be able to recover.

Plus, an eye exam does more than just test your ability to see. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares that it can also help detect whether an eye disease appears to be developing that could ultimately cause permanent vision loss. This includes looking for cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

If you have diabetes, this disease can also impact your ability to see by damaging the blood vessels found in the back of the eye. This is referred to as diabetic retinopathy and is the leading cause of blindness in adults in the U.S. according to the CDC.

Make your next eye appointment today

If you drive for a living, take a few moments and make your next eye appointment today. This ensures that you meet the requirements as set forth by your employer and the regulatory driving agencies.

It also helps recognize any vision issues when in their initial stages, potentially preventing you from losing your eyesight altogether.

Want more wellness content? Download our wellness drivers guide. 

7 benefits of being a local route truck driver vs. doing long hauls

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

If you’re considering a career driving truck, you have a couple of different options to consider. You can either be a local route driver, which generally involves delivering loads within roughly 150 miles from home base, or you can do long hauls.

The latter can mean going across the country, if not going out of the country, such as when doing deliveries to Canada or Mexico. If you’re not sure which option is best for you, here are seven benefits of staying local.

1. Better work-life balance

Typically, as a local route truck driver, you are home every night. This provides a better work-life balance than being on the road for several days or weeks at a time. You get to enjoy time with family and friends that you wouldn’t necessarily get as a long-haul driver. You also get to sleep in your own bed as opposed to sleeping in a hotel or the cab of your truck.

2. Shorter drive times

Since you’re delivering within your general area, your drive times are shorter. You can likely get to your destination within a few hours (or less) before you’re on to the next delivery location. As a long-distance driver, it’s not uncommon to spend entire workdays on the road with no stops other than for food, gas, and a quick bathroom break. This is something to consider if you’re prone to driving fatigue when behind the wheel for several hours at a time.

3. Smaller truck

While long-haul drivers may want a big cab for sleeping, local drivers don’t need all this space. Local drivers also usually have smaller loads, so they’re able to get around with a smaller truck. If you’re intimidated by long tractor-trailers, you may find it easier to maneuver something a bit smaller. You can also get through traffic easier in a smaller vehicle, in addition to having less trouble getting into and out of restaurant parking lots.

4. You don’t need your own truck

Another truck-related benefit of driving locally is that most times, the company provides the truck for you. This isn’t always the case when driving over the road as many long-haul drivers have their own truck and just transport the company’s trailers from one location to another. This cuts your start-up costs when first entering the field, also reducing the continued costs related to truck maintenance and repairs.

5. Repetitive routes

As a local driver, you will likely go to the same destinations over and over again. With repetition comes mastery. You learn the nuances and best practices of each place you deliver. This enables you to get in and out faster because you know what to expect and how to work with that particular customer. This isn’t always the case when driving long distances.

6. More familiarity with your local area

When you drive to far-away destinations, you don’t generally know the roads, nor do you know where to find the best restaurants, gas stations, or rest stops. That’s not the case as a local driver. You are already familiar with what’s available within your community, so you know which routes will likely be best, as well as where to target your stops along the way.

7. Flexibility

Driving locally means you have more flexibility with your work schedule. Since you aren’t trying to drive cross-country on a tight timeline, you generally have more wiggle room in your days. This can mean a better work-life balance or just less stress in your day-day.

These are just a few of the benefits of being a local route driver versus driving long distances. If this sounds like a career you’d be interested in pursuing, Centerline can help connect you to your perfect driving position. Click here to see available trucking driving jobs

Ways to help your drivers become more fuel efficient

Posted on by Christina DeBusk

Over the last year and a half, the cost of diesel fuel has more than doubled, jumping from $2.372 per gallon in November 2020 to $5.25 in March 2022 according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. If you have quite a few trucks on the road, this increased expense can take a huge chunk out of your bottom line.

Working with your drivers to help them become more fuel-efficient can reduce your costs at the pump. Here are a few tips that they can implement fairly easily to make each gallon of gas they put in their tanks go just a little bit further.

Check tire pressure

Before your drivers even put their trucks in gear, encourage them to check the pressure of their tires. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that for every 1 psi drop in tire pressure, gas mileage decreases by roughly 0.2%. Properly inflated tires are also safer while maximizing tire life. So, this one tip provides numerous benefits.

Look for lower cost gas stations

If you allow your drivers to fill up at any gas station they want, ask them to pay attention to prices. Some stations tend to always be a bit higher than others. Avoiding these can help reduce total gas costs. If your drivers use GPS, many systems have settings that can be adjusted to note where lower-priced stations are along the route. There are also several apps designed to scope out the lowest gas prices in the area. Gas Buddy is one that is highly rated.

Use cruise control whenever possible

Putting the truck on cruise helps keep the driver from constantly accelerating and decelerating, which uses more gas. When setting the cruise speed, ask your drivers to keep the engine between 1250 and 1350 RPM to help maximize fuel efficiency. If they drop their cruising speed by just one or two MPH as well, this can also help reduce the rate at which they burn fuel.

Avoid unnecessary stops and starts

A truck burns more gas when trying to accelerate. Therefore, keeping stops and starts to a minimum can help reduce the amount of fuel it uses. If the driver is stopping for gas, for instance, they can also use this break to use the restroom and grab some lunch. This reduces the need to stop again a short time down the road.

Enjoy the fresh air

Using the truck’s air conditioner also burns more fuel. So, if your drivers can just roll down their windows to help cool down the cab, this will help improve fuel efficiency. (Plus, sometimes it just feels good to get a bit of fresh air.) If it’s a really hot day or they’re driving in a high smog area, this may not always be a practical solution. But it may be an option on days that aren’t overly warm or when driving in a more remote area.

Keep fuel efficiency in mind

Above all, ask your drivers to simply keep fuel efficiency in mind as they go about their workdays. By always having a mindset aimed at reducing fuel consumption, they will actively look for ways to make each gallon of gas go a little further. Whether this means turning the truck off instead of letting it idle or using the shortest route possible to get from point A to point B, every little bit helps.