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As a truck driver, you want to always be pulling a load. This means that after you deliver a shipment, you want to be loading up a new load quickly and bringing it back home. This is truck driving 101. You know that not all loads are created equal and prices vary dramatically by state. If you are able to control more precisely where you deliver to, then it is best to pay attention to the best and worst states for outbound freight. Let’s take a look at the top and bottom 10 states in flatbed, reefer, and van over the past week (7 days), according to Truckstop . Flatbed - Top 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 Flatbed - Bottom 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 Reefer - Top 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 Reefer - Bottom 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 Van - Top 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 Van - Bottom 10 01/25/2026 - 01/31/2026 The idea here is not to boycott the low-paying states, but rather develop relationships with those who pay better than average in those states. By doing so you can guarantee that you will be hired for the job, and through patronizing those that pay better, you can encourage the industry as a whole to pay better. The data above is provided by Truckstop . Interested in learning more, get your first month of Truckstop’s Load Board Pro FREE, https://partners.truckstop.com/48if2i397cyz

What Truck Drivers Need to Know About the New Tax Law In July 2025, Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a sweeping tax law that locks in major tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and introduces new deductions, credits, and savings opportunities. Many of these changes directly impact owner-operators, giving truck drivers new ways to reduce taxes, plan ahead, and keep more money in their pockets. This guide breaks down the most important parts of the law in clear, driver-friendly language. Whether you’re a first-year owner-operator or a long-time small-fleet owner, here’s what the new bill means for your business. Key Tax Provisions for Owner-Operators Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBID) Is Now Permanent The 20% QBID has officially become a permanent part of the tax code. For owner-operators, this is one of the most valuable deductions available. It allows you to deduct 20% of your net business profit before calculating income tax, lowering your total tax burden significantly. The OBBBA also increases the income thresholds so more drivers qualify for the full deduction. On top of that, beginning in 2026, a new minimum QBID of $400 applies for anyone with at least $1,000 of business income. Making this deduction permanent is a big win for long-term planning. Whether you’re thinking about leasing on, switching to an S-Corp, or buying a truck in the next few years, you can count on the QBID being part of your tax strategy every year going forward. Tax Brackets Stay the Same — Permanently The seven-bracket system introduced in 2017 is here to stay. This offers stability and makes it easier for owner-operators to forecast their future tax situation. Income thresholds will continue adjusting for inflation, which helps prevent drivers from being pushed into higher brackets automatically. The U.S. tax system is progressive, meaning you pay a specific tax rate only on the income that falls within each bracket — not your entire income. That structure remains unchanged. Standard Deduction Increases The standard deduction has been permanently increased across all filing statuses. This gives most owner-operators a larger automatic deduction each year, reducing taxable income without needing to itemize expenses. However, the personal exemption is permanently eliminated. For many drivers, the combination of a higher standard deduction and an expanded Child Tax Credit offsets that loss. Choosing between itemizing and taking the standard deduction remains an important yearly decision — especially if you own a home, pay high state taxes, or donate substantially to charity. Temporary Increase to the SALT Deduction From 2025 through 2029, the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap increases from $10,000 to $40,000 per household. This is extremely helpful for drivers in states with high income or property taxes. The pass-through entity (PTE) SALT workaround also remains in place, allowing S-Corp and partnership owners to deduct state income taxes at the business level. That’s a major advantage for high-income drivers operating under these structures. The cap returns to $10,000 in 2030. Higher 1099 Reporting Thresholds Beginning in 2026: 1099-NEC threshold increases from $600 to $2,000 1099-K returns to the long-standing $20,000 and 200 transactions threshold This reduces paperwork for owner-operators, but does not affect your ability to deduct legitimate business expenses. Keep tracking and recording everything. Equipment Deductions: Huge Opportunities for Owner-Operators 100% Bonus Depreciation Returns Through 2030 One of the most important changes in the entire bill is the return of full bonus depreciation for equipment purchases. Drivers can deduct 100% of the cost of new or used trucks, trailers, and other qualifying business assets in the year they place them into service. This rule is powerful because: It applies to both new and used equipment It can create a business loss, which can be carried forward It allows large upfront write-offs during major purchase years For owner-operators, this means that upgrading equipment or expanding into multiple trucks could dramatically reduce your taxable income for several years in a row. Section 179 Expensing Section 179 continues to offer flexibility by letting drivers pick specific assets to fully deduct. The cap rises to $2.5 million, with phase-outs starting at 4 million. Section 179 cannot create a loss, but it helps tailor your taxable income more precisely in profitable years. Most owner-operators use a combination of Section 179 (first) and bonus depreciation (after) to optimize their tax strategy. New and Expanded Deductions Per Diem Deduction Is Now Permanent The per diem deduction for meals and incidental expenses becomes a permanent part of the tax code. Official rate: $80 per day Owner-operators deduct 80% of that amount Deduction equals $64 per full day on the road This gives drivers reliable, predictable savings every year. $6,000 Senior Deduction Drivers age 65 or older can claim a temporary $6,000 “below-the-line” deduction for tax years 2025 through 2028. Because it reduces Adjusted Gross Income directly, it can increase eligibility for other important credits and deductions. The deduction phases out at higher income levels, but for most senior owner-operators — especially part-time or seasonal drivers — this offers meaningful tax savings for four years straight. Auto Loan Interest Deduction From 2025 to 2028, you can deduct up to $10,000 of interest paid on a personal vehicle (not your commercial truck). The vehicle must: Be new Be purchased after December 31, 2024 Be assembled in the U.S. This deduction is above the line and applies whether you itemize or take the standard deduction. High-income earners may be phased out. Universal Charitable Deduction Beginning in 2026, taxpayers who take the standard deduction can still claim some charitable giving. Caps: $1,000 for single filers $2,000 for married filers There is a “floor,” meaning that only donations above 0.5% of your AGI count. This gives drivers who don’t itemize a way to support charities while still lowering their tax bill. Tax Credits for Families and Small Businesses Child Tax Credit Becomes More Generous The Child Tax Credit (CTC) now starts at $2,200 per child beginning in 2025. It is permanently indexed for inflation, so it will rise every year. A refundable portion of $1,700 remains available, meaning qualifying families can receive that amount even if they owe no income tax. This is especially helpful for owner-operator parents whose income may fluctuate year-to-year. Overtime, and Tip Deductions Several deductions have been expanded temporarily to support working families. These include: A temporary deduction for tip income (for qualifying spouses) A temporary deduction for overtime income (with income phase-outs) Most owner-operators are excluded from overtime and tip deductions, but these provisions may apply to spouses or non-driving employees. Trump Accounts A brand-new savings tool allows parents to invest up to $5,000 annually per child, with employers optionally contributing up to 2500. Children born between late 2024 and early 2029 also receive a $1,000 starter credit. These accounts help families set aside long-term savings for education or major life expenses. Additional Changes Owner-Operators Should Know EV and home energy efficiency credits will end earlier than previously scheduled Mortgage interest deduction cap remains at $750,000 Casualty loss rules expand to include state-declared disasters Moving expense deduction is permanently eliminated for most taxpayers These changes affect specific situations, but are worth knowing as part of the bigger tax picture. What This All Means for Owner-Operators Most owner-operators will benefit from the new tax law. Between the permanent QBID, expanded standard deduction, more generous Child Tax Credit, bigger equipment write-offs, and new temporary deductions, many drivers will see lower tax bills and more opportunities for planning. The return of 100% bonus depreciation and the expanded Section 179 limits alone make equipment upgrades far more tax-friendly. Combine that with the new senior deduction, charitable deduction, and family-focused credits, and the OBBBA provides substantial advantages for a wide range of trucking businesses. However, the law also adds new complexity. The best way to navigate these changes and maximize your tax savings is to work with a trucking tax expert. ATBS is here to help you understand how these provisions apply to your unique situation — and how you can take full advantage of them each year.

Many professional truck drivers choose to contract their services to carriers and fleets. The 1099-NEC (Non-Employee Compensation) is a tax form which allows the IRS to track any payment given by a company to independent contractors. Are you an owner-operator that needs help with your 2025 taxes? Click here! Where is my Form 1099-NEC? Form 1099-NEC has been used to report non-employee compensation since tax filing year 2021. Previously Form 1099-MISC was used to report this information. This form must be issued to the IRS and all independent contractors by January 31st of each year. This puts the responsibility on the carrier or fleet to provide the 1099 form to its contractors. Even if you do not receive the 1099, you will still need to report the income on your tax return. Tracking Down Form 1099 If you have trouble tracking down this form from your fleet, there are several things you can do. First, you can give the fleet or carrier a call. Typically, the group that handles your paycheck every week or month will issue your Form 1099. Be sure to track this information down at the beginning of February so you are ready to submit your forms and paperwork to ATBS in order to file on time. Second, you can get older 1099s electronically at www.irs.gov/transcripts . Finally, as a last resort, you can estimate your 1099-NEC income. Do so by reviewing your end-of-year pay stubs issued by your fleet or carrier. A simple amendment process is available if you overestimated your income. Remember, the IRS does not like it when you underestimate earnings, and may impose penalties for doing so. ATBS clients have their income reported or downloaded every month, so the tax filing process is streamlined. The Tax Organizer walks ATBS clients through the tax process and ensures every owner-operator tax deduction is considered. Notice, If you are a corporation, there is a possibility that you will not receive a 1099-NEC; work with your carrier if that is the case. The IRS exempts corporations from receiving the 1099 form because these entities are already subject to strict state and federal reporting and administrative requirements. Issuing a 1099 Some independent contractors will pay others to help them run their business. If you paid someone more than $600 in 2025, then you will need to file a 1099 for that person, and send a copy of this to the IRS by January 31st. A good bookkeeping practice to adhere to is to file a signed and completed W-9 for each contractor you hire. This provides the information you need for filing Form 1099 with your contractor and the IRS. ATBS clients have a dedicated team of bookkeepers who can properly categorize any payments made to independent contractors. Be sure to work with your ATBS business consultant to successfully file all forms with the IRS and independent contractors in a timely manner. Get Organized Form 1099 is an important element in every independent contractor’s life. Keep an eye out for it in January and ensure that all of your paperwork is organized for your tax preparer in February. ATBS prepares taxes for more than 15,000 professional drivers every year. We help owner-operators keep their money where it belongs -- in their pockets. Give ATBS a call today with all your tax-related questions at 303-218-2827.

Tax season is here, which means it’s time to start thinking about filing your 2025 taxes. Before you start, we’re here to make sure you’re up to date on some of the significant changes that have happened over the past year that could affect your tax return . In this article, we’re going to provide you with a list of a few things that have changed and a few things that are carrying over from the previous tax season. Are you an owner-operator who needs help with your 2025 taxes? Click here! Here’s a list of a few IRS updates and recent congressional acts and their tax implications affecting your 2025 taxes and beyond: IRS Per Diem Rates for the Transportation Industry The per diem deduction for meals and incidental expenses increased to $80 per full day and $60 per partial day as of October 1st, 2024, and the rate remains in place in 2025. The IRS allows for an 80% deduction of the above amounts. If you are tracking per diem, this means under the new rules the deduction for a full day has increased to $64, and the deduction for a partial day has increased to $48. One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) The One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law on July 4, 2025. To the average self-employed truck driver, this act in many ways will have little to no effect on the way you conduct your business currently. However, it does provide new opportunities for tax savings and things to watch out for over the next several years. Climate-Related Tax Credits Federal EV tax credits for new and used vehicles expired for purchases after September 30, 2025, under the OBBBA. Buyers who signed binding contracts and made payments on qualifying new or used EVs by that date may still claim the credit (up to $7,500 new, $4,000 used) on their 2025 tax returns, even if delivery was later. After September 30, 2025, these federal incentives are gone, but state/local programs and leased vehicle options (which have different rules) might still be available. For 2025, homeowners can claim two main federal energy tax credits expiring December 31st: the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (up to $1,200 annually for windows, insulation, etc., plus an extra $2,000 for heat pumps/biomass) and the Residential Clean Energy Credit (30% for solar, wind, geothermal, batteries). Both credits are nonrefundable, but the Residential Clean Energy Credit allows carrying forward unused amounts. You can claim the credit for improvements made through December 31, 2025. Health Insurance and Care OBBBA will return subsidies and repayment caps for the Affordable Care Act to pre-American Rescue Plan Act levels beginning in 2026. Owner-operators in need of health insurance can search the Federal Marketplace to see if they qualify for a subsidy. Be careful when applying for a subsidy to make sure your income levels qualify. Increase in SALT Deduction for Itemizers The OBBBA increases the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap significantly to $40,000 for itemizers (up from $10,000) starting in 2025 through 2029. This provides substantial relief, especially for those in high-tax states, but it phases out for incomes above $500,000 and reverts to $10,000 in 2030. The change encourages more taxpayers to itemize, and the full benefit applies only if total itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction. Bonus Depreciation Beginning in 2025, the OBBBA restores your business’s ability to take an immediate first-year deduction on any asset purchased during the year. For any qualified property purchased and placed in service after January 19, 2025, you will be able to depreciate 100% of the cost of the property in that year. Assets purchased and placed in service January 1-19, 2025, will only qualify for the previous 40% bonus depreciation. Student Loan Interest Deduction Adjusted for Inflation You may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest paid. The deduction is subject to income limitations, which have gone up for 2025. For joint filers, the deduction begins to phase out with a modified AGI of $170,000 and reduces to zero at $200,000. For single and head of household filers, the phaseout begins at $85,000 and reduces to zero at $100,000. For those married filing separately, the deduction is not allowed. Dependent Care Credit The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly changes dependent care benefits starting in 2026, primarily by increasing the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) limit to $7,500 (from $5,000) and expanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), making it more generous for lower and middle-income families with a tiered system up to 50% credit, alongside boosting employer tax credits for offering childcare. These updates aim to make childcare more affordable through both pre-tax employee savings and direct tax relief for families and employers. 1099-K The 1099-K is likely not going to affect the trucking business per se, but if your spouse has a business or you have a side business you may see one this year. Many platforms such as eBay, Venmo, Zelle, and Etsy, to name a few, will potentially be issuing these forms. The threshold for issuing 1099-Ks has been restored to the previous threshold of $20,000 and 200 transactions. Additional Deductions Additional Deductions is a new form for 2025-2028 tax years, created by OBBBA to claim four new below-the-line deductions: no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loan interest, and an enhanced deduction for seniors (age 65+), which reduces taxable income without affecting Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Taxpayers use it to calculate these specific deductions, even if they itemize on Schedule A, to lower their overall tax burden. Key Deductions on the new Schedule 1-A No Tax on Tips: A deduction for qualified cash tips up to $25,000, regardless of filing status, for specified occupations. No Tax on Overtime: A deduction for overtime pay up to $12,500 (single filers) and $25,000 (joint filers); however, most drivers will not qualify for this deduction. No Tax on Car Loan Interest: A deduction for up to $10,000 on interest paid on qualifying car loans for new cars assembled in the United States. Enhanced Deduction for Seniors: An increased deduction of $6,000 (single filers) and $12,000 (joint filers) for individuals aged 65 and over. The bottom line is that being aware of these changes can potentially save you money on your taxes. Many of these changes could be temporary, so make sure you’re taking advantage of them now while they are available. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (303) 218-2827 or email us at info@atbs.com. Taxes for truckers is what we do.

Section 179 doesn’t increase the total amount you can deduct, but it allows you to get your entire depreciation deduction in one year, rather than taking it a little at a time over the term of an asset’s useful life. This is called first-year expensing or Section 179 expensing. (Expensing is an accounting term that means currently deducting a long-term asset.) Example In 2025, Bill buys a $25,000 van for his delivery business. Under the regular depreciation rules, Bill would have to deduct a portion of the cost each year over its five-year useful life. By deducting the van under Section 179, Bill can deduct the entire $25,000 expense from his income taxes in 2025. So he gets a $25,000 deduction in 2025 under Section 179, instead of the normal deduction he would get using regular depreciation methods. The maximum Section 179 deduction in 2025 for vehicles 6,000-14,000 pounds is $31,300. What Property Qualifies You qualify for the Section 179 deduction only if you buy long-term, tangible personal property that you use in your business more than 50% of the time. Under Section 179, you can deduct the cost of tangible personal property (new or used) that you buy for your business. Examples of tangible personal property include computers, business equipment and machinery, cell phones, etc. Property Used Primarily (51%) for Business To deduct the cost of property under Section 179, you must use the property primarily for your business. The deduction is not available for property you use solely for personal purposes or to manage investments or otherwise produce non-business income. You can take a Section 179 deduction for property you use for both personal and business purposes, as long as you use it for business more than half of the time. The amount of your deduction is reduced by the percentage of your personal use. You’ll need to keep records showing your business use of the property. If you use an item for business less than half the time, you will have to use regular depreciation instead and deduct the cost of the item over several years. Another limitation regarding the business use of property is that you must use the property over half the time for business in the year in which you buy it. You can’t convert property you previously used for personal use to business use and claim a Section 179 deduction for the cost. Annual Deduction Limit There is a limit on the total amount of business property expenses that you can deduct each year under Section 179. The maximum in 2025 is $2.5 million with a phase out threshold beginning at $4 million. Once you're above $6.5 million, no Section 179 deduction is allowed. You don’t have to claim the full amount, it’s up to you to decide how much to deduct under Section 179. Whatever amount you don’t claim under Section 179 must be depreciated instead over the life of the asset. Advantages and Disadvantages of Taking Section 179 The main advantage of Section 179 is it lets you take a higher deduction immediately. By receiving a higher depreciation deduction today, a business will reduce its current tax bill. This deduction is especially helpful for new businesses that may be having cash-flow troubles. Section 179 lets businesses maximize deductions today and avoid delaying deductions to the future when the business may no longer exist. Two of the major disadvantages are as your income increases, it will move into a higher tax rate. By accelerating your business's deductions, you will have fewer options in the future to reduce your taxes when your business may be in a higher tax bracket. Another disadvantage of the accelerated method is that it has a greater risk of recaptured depreciation. You may decide to sell a long-term asset before it is considered worthless according to its depreciation schedule. If you sell the asset for more than its current accounting value, your profit will be considered recaptured depreciation. The IRS will take back your depreciation deductions as the asset did not lose as much value as planned. Your recaptured depreciation profits will be taxed as income. Accelerated depreciation systems have a higher cost of recaptured depreciation because they recognize more depreciation upfront. Proper planning can help you make the best possible decision on depreciation. Call your business service provider today to discuss your current situation and your future business plans in order to make a sound decision on depreciating your business assets.

As an owner-operator truck driver, your tax situation is unique. You file and pay taxes like a business owner while also being eligible for deductions that are specific to truck drivers. If you’re looking for more information on how to file and pay taxes as an owner-operator truck driver, we’re here to help. Below is a brief overview of how to handle and manage owner-operator taxes. Are you a self-employed truck driver that needs help with your taxes, accounting, or bookkeeping? Click here! Estimated Tax Payments As an independent contractor, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires you to make quarterly estimated tax payments based on your business profits. Your quarterly estimated tax payments include: Self-employment tax: The self-employment tax rate is 15.3%. It consists of Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%) taxes. Federal Income Tax and State Income Tax: This is calculated on your tax return. Those who expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes are required to make quarterly payments of self-employment and income taxes. When you are self-employed the payment of Social Security and Medicare taxes is your responsibility. This is unlike those individuals who are classified as an employee as these taxes would be withheld from a paycheck and paid by an employer. How can you estimate your taxes owed each quarter? There are two common methods for estimating tax: Safe harbor: Slightly simplified, this method is calculated by dividing your prior year's tax liability by four to arrive at the amount to pay for each quarterly tax estimate. Actual estimate: This method is a far more useful method to calculate quarterly tax estimates for those with fluctuating income. This method uses the business’ current year profit each quarter to calculate the amount to pay during each quarter. This ensures that you are keeping current with tax payments during your business’ growth throughout the year and prevents any surprises during tax filing. For new independent contractors, it is recommended to use the actual income method for estimating quarterly taxes. Put time aside on your calendar each quarter to work through tax estimates. Do not wait until the last minute as penalties can apply. Tax Deductions and Credits Lower Tax Liability When it comes time to file your taxes, you can minimize your tax liability by claiming every legal tax deduction and credit available. Understanding and recording all the deductions and credits appropriately will help you avoid penalties, reduce the risk of an audit, and minimize the amount you have to pay in taxes. Tax Deductions A tax deduction occurs when you have a reduction of taxable income, like an expense. The reduction of your taxable income results in less tax due. As an owner-operator truck driver, you have numerous tax deductions for your business including: Your truck payment Fuel Accounting and bookkeeping fees Office supplies Maintenance fees Uniforms Licenses and permits Communication Fees Insurance Any expense that you have record of and is “ordinary and necessary” for your business can be considered tax deductible. For our list of commonly missed owner-operator truck driver tax deductions, check out our Tax Deductions for Truck Drivers List . Tax Credits Tax credits work very differently than tax deductions. Tax credits will reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar while tax deductions reduce your taxable income. This means if you owe $5,000 in taxes and receive a $4,000 tax credit, you will only be responsible for paying $1,000 in taxes. A few common examples of tax credits are: Child tax credit Earned income credit Child and dependent care tax credit American opportunity credit Reduce the Risk of Audit on Your Business The IRS is tasked with selecting taxpayers for audit in two ways: The first is if they suspect dishonesty or practices that do not adhere to tax law; the second is a random selection of tax returns for audit to check tax compliance. To reduce the likelihood of a tax audit and reply to a random audit, it is important to claim tax deductions and tax credits for which you have documentation and support. Without supporting documents, the IRS may disallow the deductions or credits and charge interest and penalties. Keep receipts, canceled checks, electronic log books, and other valid proofs of payment documentation for a minimum of three years. Per Diem Per Diem (per day) is one of your largest tax deductions as an owner-operator, but what is it exactly? In its simplest terms, the Per Diem deduction is a tax deduction that the IRS allows to substantiate ordinary and necessary business meal and incidental expenses paid or incurred while traveling away from home. The IRS allows transportation workers, subject to the hours of service regulations that travel for business, to deduct their meal expenses from their income. The per diem rate is set by the IRS. The current rate (as of October 1, 2024) is $80 per day in the Continental US. You may hear the amount of the deduction quoted as $64. That is because the IRS only allows you to deduct 80% of the Per Diem rate. If you are an owner-operator, the rule is simple, you get to claim the tax deduction for each day that you are away from your “tax home”. On the days that you depart and the days that you arrive at home, you must claim a partial day allowance instead of a full day allowance. That is ¾ of the standard allowance. To learn more about Per Diem, click here . Depreciation and Section 179 Section 179 doesn’t increase the total amount you can deduct, but it allows you to get your entire depreciation deduction in one year, rather than taking it a little at a time over the term of an asset’s useful life. This is called first-year expensing or Section 179 expensing. (Expensing is an accounting term that means currently deducting a long-term asset.) You qualify for the Section 179 deduction only if you buy long-term, tangible personal property that you use in your business more than 50% of the time. Under Section 179, you can deduct the cost of tangible personal property (new or used) that you buy for your business. There is a limit on the total amount of business property expenses that you can deduct each year under Section 179. The maximum was increased in 2025 to $2.5 million. The phase-out threshold was also increased to $4 million. You don’t have to claim the full amount, it’s up to you to decide how much to deduct under Section 179. Whatever amount you don’t claim under Section 179 must be depreciated instead over the life of the asset. The main advantage of Section 179 is it lets you take a higher deduction immediately. By receiving a higher depreciation deduction today, a business will reduce its current tax bill. This deduction is especially helpful for new businesses that may be having cash-flow troubles. Two of the major disadvantages are as your income increases, it will move into a higher tax rate. By accelerating your business's deductions, you will have fewer options in the future to reduce your taxes when your business may be in a higher tax bracket. Another disadvantage of the accelerated method is that it has a greater risk of recaptured depreciation. You may decide to sell a long-term asset before it is considered worthless according to its depreciation schedule. Proper planning can help you make the best possible decision on depreciation. Additional Taxes Employee Tax Do you have employees working for your business? If so, you must collect taxes on behalf of your employees including: Social Security Medicare Federal and state income tax The amount of taxes to withhold from each employee’s wages starts with a calculation that begins with the employee’s Form W-4. The Form W-4 is prepared by the employee and provided to the employer. The taxes calculated and withheld from an employee’s paycheck must be sent to the federal and state government based on their specific rules. Excise Tax Excise tax is considered an indirect form of taxation because the government does not directly apply the tax during the income tax filing process. An intermediary, either the producer or merchant, is charged and then must pay the tax to the government. Excise tax can apply to businesses in a variety of ways based on your industry, the product or service you provide, and where you operate your business. A couple of common excise taxes that apply to trucking are: Form 2290 Federal Highway Use Tax (FHUT) Diesel Fuel Tires Purchases made on specific types of consumables or goods (such as fuel) and certain activities (such as a truck using a highway) are subject to excise taxes. Franchise Tax Franchise taxes are paid by certain entities (corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies) that do business in certain states. These may be considered “privilege” taxes as they allow a business the right to operate in a certain state or locality. Property Tax Property taxes are due if you own property or real estate and it must be paid to the local government. Gross Receipts Tax Gross receipts taxes are imposed by some states on businesses instead of a state income tax. In these states, gross receipts (revenues) of the business are taxed. Some states allow deductions for gross receipts tax and some states exempt certain types of businesses. ATBS can help you determine if you are responsible for this tax and if a deduction is applicable. Common Tax Questions Q: How much should I set aside for business taxes? A: It is recommended to set aside 25-28% of your weekly net income for quarterly taxes. Q: I cannot get my taxes done on time. What should I do? A: If you can’t get your taxes done in time, file a one-time 6 month extension. However please keep in mind, It is an extension to file not an extension to pay. Q: Will I receive a tax refund? A: This is very dependent on your individual situation, however, it’s not likely if you are an owner-operator. You should work hard to being owed as little as possible. Remember, if you are getting a refund, you have given the government an interest free loan. Q: Will my tax preparer send me my 1099-NEC form? A: No, your carrier will send you your 1099-NEC form. Q: I did not pay my quarterly tax estimates this year. What is going to happen? A: The IRS will charge underpayment penalties and interest for the tax not paid. For more common tax questions that we’ve answered, click here . Lease vs. Purchase If you’re leasing your truck, you can deduct each month’s payment from your taxes. This means if you purchased your truck, you’ll typically see a higher deduction in the first two years due to depreciation. However, because of the depreciation schedule, by the fourth year, you’ll have very little depreciation left. That means the driver who is leasing their truck will see a tax benefit compared to the driver who purchased. Additionally, the driver who purchased their truck will see a tax delay. This is because the tax will still have to be paid in later years, as it’s not eliminated by depreciation. Preparing and Filing Taxes Who is currently preparing and filing the taxes for your business? A non-specialized provider? A family member or yourself? A local accountant? If you are using any of the options above, you may be paying more tax than you need to. Continuously changing tax laws make it hard for any business owner to understand and accurately file and pay taxes. Filing accurately and maximizing deductions to reduce the tax burden starts with choosing a specialized business provider for your industry. Using ATBS to prepare your federal, state, and local taxes can translate to an easy and seamless tax preparation process. With ATBS, there are just three easy steps to file your taxes: Send ATBS all your business receipts Complete our tax organizer Be available for follow-up questions ATBS will take this information and make sure you receive every tax deduction you deserve while remaining in compliance with the IRS. We give each return personalized attention, including an extensive review process by a tax professional, to make sure it’s done right. Throughout the year, we’ll also provide you with your tax estimate amounts so you know how much to pay. Tax estimates are calculated on “actual profit” and can be accessed on a secure online portal anytime, anywhere. At ATBS, we have helped more than 150,000 owner-operators over the past 20 years run a better business. We offer a variety of services including bookkeeping, accounting, and tax preparation, which will provide you with the best outcome when filing your tax return. We also offer unlimited business consulting for our RumbleStrip Professional clients. A dedicated business consultant will help you keep your business “between the lines” just like rumblestrips on the highway keep your truck between the lines. If you’d like to learn more about ATBS services or want to get started today, give us a call at 866-920-2827 .

Looking to jumpstart your trucking business in 2026? Check out the articles that were read the most during the past year and become a more well-rounded truck driver and business owner! Per Diem Tax Deduction Tips for Truck Drivers The Top 25 Quick and Easy Meals for Truck Drivers The Complete Guide to Taxes for Owner-Operator Truckers How to Obtain MC Authority: A Step-by-Step Guide The Best and Worst States for Outbound Freight Owner-Operator Truck Driver Tax Deductions Everything You Need to Know About Chain Laws 1099 vs. W-2 Truck Drivers: What's the Difference? What a Truck Driver Needs to Know About Starting an LLC 12 Helpful Apps for Truckers

If you operate in the northern half of the United States, diesel winterization should be a priority to keep you moving through the cold season. Not knowing how to properly winterize diesel fuel is simply not preparing for your operating environment, much the same as not having chains or the wrong seasonal clothing. At certain temperatures, diesel will turn into a gel-like substance that will not flow through your fuel system. It not only gels in your tanks but also in your fuel lines and fuel filter. It can stop you in your tracks, prevent you from getting moving in the morning, and prevent you from getting heat in your cab/sleeper, which presents a serious safety hazard. Fuel Types and Gel Points It is very difficult to pinpoint a specific temperature at which diesel gels because so many variables come into play. Here, we're referring to general temperature ranges. There are basically two temperature points that concern us: First is the cloud point, which is the point at which paraffin wax just begins to precipitate out of the fuel. The fuel will start to become cloudy but the actual temperature can vary somewhat. Second is the pour point which is also referred to as the gel point. This is the point at which so much wax precipitates out of the fuel that it no longer flows. The gel point is generally ten to fifteen degrees below the cloud point. Let’s take a look at the different types of crude oil, diesel, and their temperature characteristics. All petrodiesel contains paraffin waxes, which are straight- and branched-chain hydrocarbons. It’s these waxes that become solid at lower temperatures. The amount of paraffin wax in your diesel depends on the type of crude oil used and the process to manufacture the fuel. Crude oil is typically classified as: Brent Blend: which is broken down into Brent Crude and Brent Light Sweet Crude. West Texas Intermediate: also known as Texas Light Sweet. OPEC Reference Basket: which is broken down further as Bonnie Light, Arab Light, Basra Light, Saharan Blend, and Minas. Dubai Crude. Diesel fuel comes in two blends: summer and winter. For the purpose of this discussion summer blend diesel is non-treated diesel. In this case, the paraffin wax will begin to precipitate out as the ambient temperature drops below +32°F. As the ambient temperature drops below 0°F, the solidifying wax particles combine into solids large enough to be stopped by filters. Summer blend diesel, also called No. 2 ULSD, will cloud and gel at higher temperatures than winter blend No. 2 ULSD, which is a mixture of No. 2 ULSD and No. 1 diesel/kerosene. It is the kerosene that lowers the gel point in winter blend diesel. The actual temperature at which your winter blend diesel will gel depends on the specific mixture you purchased. The higher the kerosene content, the lower the gel point. For example, the winter diesel in my town is only winterized to +10°F, and below that, anything is fair game. Some areas may winterize down to -20°F. It has not been my experience that the temperature to which diesel is winterized is published near the pump. Typically this information will take a little research. If you happen to be fueling in a part of the country that is running a petrodiesel/biodiesel blend then you should be aware that biodiesel will gel at a higher temperature than petrodiesel. Biodiesel comes in B2, B5, B20 and B100. That number represents the percent of biodiesel in the mix. Similar to petrodiesel, the approximate temperature at which pure biodiesel will gel depends on the oil it’s made from. Some typical oils include peanut, corn, soy, coconut, olive, and canola. Biodiesel from canola oil has the lowest gel temperature. A petro/biodiesel mix will have a lower gel point than pure biodiesel. A petro/biodiesel mix can be treated to lower the gel point just the same as petrodiesel. Managing Moisture in Your Fuel System All diesel has water suspended in the solution. This water comes from condensation that forms on the inside of a cold fuel tank that has warm fuel. You can also get condensation from temperature and humidity changes. Keeping your diesel as “dry” as possible by using a water separator is a good way to pull the water out of your fuel. As the temperature drops and the paraffin wax begins to precipitate out of the fuel, the water held in suspension will begin to form ice crystals that can cause excessive wear and damage to your fuel system and engine components. Additives and Prevention Options There are several ways to prevent diesel clouding and gelling. I’ve seen insulated fuel tank blankets used in some climates. The most common is to add a winter fuel additive. There are additives to address the moisture content by helping to “dry” the fuel, there are additives that lower the gel point of diesel fuel and there are combination additives. There are even additives that will thaw your diesel after it has gelled, but that can be somewhat difficult on the side of the interstate with the temperature in the teens or below as it requires removing the fuel filter, sometimes more than once. The method you choose is your preference. Most truckstop chains treat for the conditions of the region they are in. Check with your engine manufacturer to get their recommendations on fuel treatments, as some can cause damage to the new high-pressure common rail injection systems. Be Prepared for Changing Temperatures The point is to be prepared ahead of time and if you are operating in cold climates it might be wise to treat your fuel. It is much cheaper than a tow and recovery bill. It is also worth noting that it’s possible to buy fuel in a relatively warm climate in the morning and finish your day in a cold climate. Be prepared and proactive in keeping your diesel flowing.

Many people struggle to maintain a healthy weight. From fad diets to intense exercise programs, it can feel like there’s a new miracle solution every day. Americans spend millions each year trying to improve their weight and health, when the real steps toward success are often much simpler. Here are seven top tips to reach your long-term health and weight-loss goals. Stop Comparing Health looks different for everyone. One person may struggle with blood sugar levels while another deals with low iron. Our bodies need different balances to reach peak health, and our body shapes will always vary. Whatever the “ideal” body type of the moment may be, it may not be realistic—or healthy—for you. Focus on what helps you thrive, rather than changing your body to meet someone else’s expectations. Consult your healthcare professional to understand your own health needs and the steps to achieve your goals. Learn to Cook Whether you’re watching YouTube tutorials, grabbing a new cookbook from the library, or tuning in to a cooking show, anyone can learn to cook! It takes practice, but preparing your own meals is one of the most impactful steps toward a healthier diet. Truck stops continue to improve their healthy food options, but temptation is everywhere. Preparing your own meals gives you control over ingredients and portions—both key to long-term health and weight management. Move More Carve out just 30 minutes a day for a brisk walk or exercise. That’s only a half-hour out of 24 hours—totally doable. One study found that moderately overweight men who exercised hard enough to sweat for 30 minutes a day lost an average of 8 pounds over three months. That could be 32 pounds in a year. It’s Not Just About the Number Weight loss isn’t only about watching the scale drop. It’s also about recognizing your successes as well as the setbacks. Don’t let small disappointments derail you. Remember, weight loss is just one benefit of getting healthier. When you build muscle, the number on the scale can go up—but you might be losing inches around your waist. Measure success by how your clothes fit, how well you’re sleeping, and how alert you feel throughout the day. These are the signs that truly reflect improved well-being—not just a number on the scale. Find Inspiration Seeing others reach their goals is a good reminder that everyone starts somewhere. You’re not alone. You might even join an online community of people working toward similar goals. Love Yourself Someone once said, “You will never be truly happy with your success until you learn to love yourself—right now.” This may be one of the hardest steps, but appreciating yourself and your body as it is—even with imperfections—can help you recognize how special it is to be you. No matter your weight, gratitude for what your body provides makes success much sweeter. Give it Time Meaningful, lasting change takes time. Small steps may feel slow, but they help you build habits that stick. Over time, these habits make it easier to maintain both your weight loss and your improved health. Applying these tips in your daily life can put you on the road to a healthier, happier you. Work with your healthcare professional to find a plan that fits your needs, and learn to accept yourself along the way. Why not start today?

Life is full of all kinds of unexpected events. It’s because of these uncertainties that we need to make sure we are always prepared. Setting up an emergency fund can help to offset a financial strain. What is an emergency fund? An emergency fund is a liquid amount of cash that you can easily access if some sort of emergency pops up. I am not talking about money, you might need to take a last-minute trip to the Caribbean. Getting your emergency fund started. Getting your emergency fund started can be as simple as $100. As long as you are able to meet and exceed your breakeven point each month, you can continue to contribute small amounts over a long period of time. As you slowly build your emergency fund, you are going to want to make sure you monitor your spending and avoid debt. How big should your emergency fund be? If you talk to any financial professional, you will probably get a different answer from all of them on what the perfect amount is. Some people say your emergency fund needs to be as little as $1,000. Personally, I think it’s better to have a few months' worth of household expenses. This will help keep peace of mind in the event that something does happen. Where do you put the money? After you have made the choice to start your emergency fund, you need to decide where to put the money. The answer is simple. You need to stash it in a high-yielding savings account. A high-yielding savings account isn’t going to make you rich, but it keeps the money easily accessible if you need it in a hurry. It’s also better than just keeping it under your mattress. Wrapping it up. If you follow this advice and set up an emergency fund, then you should feel safe the next time an unexpected financial emergency pops up in your life.

2025 is almost over, which means it’s time to make sure you have minimized your tax bill for the year. There are many things you can begin doing now to make filing your tax return as easy as possible and reduce the amount you owe. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important tax moves to make before 2025 comes to an end. Whether you’ve been an owner-operator for all of 2025 or just part of 2025, we can help you get those complicated owner-operator taxes filed. Click here! 1. Buy Assets - ONLY if you Need Them If you are in need of a new truck or piece of equipment for your business, it may be worth purchasing it before the year ends. Purchasing equipment for your business could allow you to reduce your tax liability because of the depreciation rules. The tax code allows your business to take an immediate first-year deduction on any asset purchased during the year. This is because any qualified property purchased and placed in service between January 1st, 2025, and December 31, 2025, can be depreciated by 100% of the cost of the property. But before you go out and make a big purchase in order to take advantage of the new depreciation rules, there are a few things to consider. This deduction shouldn’t motivate you to purchase things that you might want but won’t help your business make more money. A higher deduction in the present means you will likely have a lower deduction in the future. If your business is growing, this can lead to problems when your business moves into a higher tax bracket. If an asset is sold for more than its adjusted basis*, then tax law states any excess depreciation that was deducted on the prior year's returns (up to the amount of the sale price) is considered taxable income. This means if you end up selling an asset for more than its adjusted basis, tax law requires the IRS to take back the depreciation deduction, and the recaptured depreciation profits will be taxed as income. *Adjusted basis is the original purchase price minus any depreciation deduction allowed on that piece of equipment. 2. Calculate your Per Diem Deduction Per diem is the tax deduction that the IRS allows to substantiate ordinary and necessary business expenses paid or incurred while traveling away from home. In simpler terms, it’s a deduction for meals and incidental expenses for the days you are on the road and away from home for a period of time that requires sleep or rest to complete your job duties. This deduction was eliminated for employees, also known as company drivers, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), but remains a deductible business expense for self-employed individuals or owner-operators. As of October 1st, 2024, the per diem rate increased to $80 per full day and $60 per partial day. For 2025, the deduction amount will remain at 80% for the amounts listed above. Taxpayers are required to keep track of their days on the road in order to claim the per diem deduction. ATBS recommends keeping a per diem calendar where you mark an “X” for full days and a “/” on partial days to keep tracking per diem simple. To prove your per diem, you will also need to provide DOT ELD logs with times, dates, and locations. To get a better understanding of per diem, check out our Per Diem Tax Break article . 3. Consider Electing to be Taxed as an S-Corporation Consider setting your business up as an LLC and filing Form 2553 to elect to be taxed as an S-Corporation. There are some advantages to filing as an S Corp, as long as you net enough earnings throughout the year. ATBS recommends not making this election unless your net earnings are consistently exceeding $70,000-$75,000 per year. At that point, tax savings will be greater than the costs to set up and run the corporation. As an S-Corp, you can minimize your self-employment tax by paying yourself a reasonable salary and withdrawing additional funds as distributions. Unlike a sole proprietorship, not all income (distributed and undistributed) from an S corporation is subject to self-employment tax. The self-employment tax rate is approximately 15% on all earnings from self-employment activity. Here is an example of how you can lower your self-employment taxable income when set up as an S-corporation. If you earned $60,000 of net income over the year, and pay yourself a reasonable salary of $40,000, you only have to pay self-employment tax (payroll tax) on the $40,000. 15% (the self-employment tax rate) of $40,000 is $6,000. This means that you are now only paying $6,000 of self-employment tax rather than $9,000 (15% of $60,000 is $9,000). Paying yourself a salary that is not considered “reasonable” may send a red flag to the IRS that could potentially trigger an audit. 4. Get Caught Up on Quarterly Tax Estimates If you have not been paying your quarterly estimated tax payments, it would be a good idea to make a larger than normal 4th quarter tax payment to try and catch up. This will help pay any existing tax liability due when you file your 2025 tax return. It will also allow you to avoid penalties for not paying enough taxes during the year. The 4th quarter estimated tax payment is due January 15th, 2026. Generally, most taxpayers will avoid a penalty for underpayment of annual tax if they owe less than $1,000 or if they’ve paid at least 90% of the tax due for the current year. However, it’s HIGHLY recommended you pay taxes every quarter. Failing to pay your quarterly estimated taxes can result in additional penalties that vary based on how much you owe. Don’t let yourself get too far behind, or it will become more and more difficult to get yourself caught up. ATBS recommends setting aside 25%-30% of your weekly net income for quarterly estimated tax payments. 5. Make an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) Contribution Contributions that you make towards a traditional IRA are considered tax deductible with some restrictions. You can contribute up to $7,000 per year across all IRAs in your name, and if you are over the age of 50, you can make an additional $1,000 contribution for a total of $8,000 per year. These contributions have to be made before April 15th, 2026. Additional retirement plans you can contribute to include a simplified employee plan (SEP) or a savings incentive match plan for employees (SIMPLE). A SEP has special rules attached to it, so if you have employees, make sure you understand the contribution rules. If you are the only employee of your company, then you can contribute 25% of your net income from self-employment activity, or $70,000, whichever is less. If you are a single truck owner-operator, or your company has fewer than 100 employees, you can use a SIMPLE IRA. Your annual contributions are capped at $16,500 unless you are 50 and older then it’s increased to $20,000 ($21,750 for those 60-63). For companies with less than 25 employees, the contribution limits increase to $17,600 ($21,450 for those over 50, and $21,750 for those 60-63). Find a trusted financial advisor to help you determine which method of investing for retirement is best based on your individual income needs. Additional Tips Max Out Health Savings Account (HSA) A health savings account (HSA) lets you set aside pretax income to cover health care costs that your insurance doesn't pay. You can contribute to an HSA only if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and aren't enrolled in Medicare. For 2025, the maximum contribution amounts are $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for family coverage. If you're 55 or older, you can add up to $1,000 more as a "catch-up" contribution. HSAs have no use-it-or-lose-it provision. Any funds still in the plan at the end of the year can be rolled over indefinitely. Send Books to an Accountant At the end of the year, one of the best ways to get ready for the upcoming tax season is to send your books to an accountant. This way they can begin getting everything in order early and let you know with plenty of time if they are missing any items. If you wait until later in the tax season, it could mean that your taxes may not get done before the deadline. Prepare 1099’s for Contractors The 1099-NEC form is used to report payments made to independent contractors for services. If you paid someone who is not your employee (W-2), such as a subcontractor, $600 or more for services provided during the year, a Form 1099-NEC needs to be completed. A copy of the 1099-NEC must be provided to the independent contractor and the IRS by January 31st of the year following payment. Avoid Paying Additional Taxes on Health Insurance The 2018 tax year was the last year there would be a penalty for not having health insurance. However, you could still end up owing more in tax because of Marketplace coverage. When you apply for health insurance through the federal or state marketplace or exchange, you need to accurately estimate your total family income for the year. When signing up for marketplace insurance, it is better to slightly overstate your 2026 estimated income than to understate it. If you underestimate your income you may owe back thousands of dollars in taxes. However, if your income is below a certain amount, you may be eligible to receive a subsidy to help you pay your monthly insurance premiums. When you file your taxes, you are required to calculate how much your household income actually turned out to be. If your income is above the amount you estimated, you may have to pay some or all of the subsidized assistance you received back to the marketplace as part of your tax liability. It’s recommended that you talk to a tax professional if you need any help with any of the above items. At ATBS, we specialize in owner-operator truck driver taxes. We can walk you through each scenario above to make sure your 2025 taxes are filed correctly. Give us a call at 866-920-2827 to get started!

Every truck driver should know how to conduct a pre-trip truck inspection. However, many don’t take the time to go through this inspection every time they hit the road. It’s critical to go through this process to make sure everything is operating properly. Failure to do so can result in consequences that can cost money and take you off the road, or worse. Here are five reasons why it’s important for you to perform your pre-trip truck inspection. Click Here to Download our "Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist" It keeps you safe The most important reason to perform a pre-trip inspection is for your safety . It can be dangerous to go out on the road with a load that is not secured, brakes that are damaged, wiring that is not connected, etc. Taking the 30 minutes to ensure that everything on your truck is working properly is worth it if it means you don’t hurt yourself or somebody else. Don’t get in a habit of skipping a pre-trip inspection because you’ve never had anything go wrong before. It is important to understand that every time you hit the road without checking your truck, there is a chance you’re putting yourself or someone else in danger. It’s the law As a driver, you’re required to ensure your vehicle is safe to operate and free from defects. Legally, you need to do this by indicating that you performed a pre-trip truck inspection while “on-duty not driving” duty status. If you do find an issue, you will need to complete a driver vehicle inspection report to avoid violations during an audit. It’s better to catch an issue before a DOT officer does. This will help avoid a violation and a decrease in your CSA score . Depending on the case, the DOT officer could issue a fine. It keeps you on the road There are a few ways that not doing a pre-trip inspection can keep you off the road. First, if the DOT catches something wrong with your truck, they can give you a violation and put your vehicle out of service until the issue is fixed. Likewise, if you don’t become aware of a minor problem for a long time, it can eventually become a major problem. It’s better to catch something minor early so that it can be fixed quickly. Lastly, having something wrong with your truck can lead to an accident that causes damage to your truck and injuries to yourself or others. If an accident happens, it can keep you off the road for an extended period of time, which further hurts your bottom line. It saves you money As mentioned earlier, doing your pre-trip inspection can help you catch a minor problem before it becomes something more serious. Chances are, a minor problem will cost less money, and fixing it as soon as it pops up will get you back on the road quicker. This way, you avoid losing money for the repair and losing money while you wait for your truck to get fixed. Also, it is better to catch an issue prior to hitting the road so that you can get it fixed at the shop rather than on the side of the road . Roadside repairs typically cost three to five times more than repairs in the shop. This will also save you from having to pay for a tow truck to help you get to a shop. It reduces liability It is important to keep in mind that your truck can be involved in an accident that causes serious damage and injuries. Even if it isn’t your fault, it is possible for you to be found liable for an accident if there is no proof that a pre-trip inspection was done properly. This is a big reason why it’s so important to perform your pre-trip inspection and keep track of whether or not you found an issue that needed fixing. If you find an issue and get it fixed, make sure you keep track of when and where the repair happened. It’s possible, and highly likely, for a lawyer to find you liable for an accident if there is an issue with your truck that could have been prevented by proper pre-trip inspection. How to perform a pre-trip truck inspection Here is a summary of what you need to look at when performing a pre-trip truck inspection. There is no specific time limit for how long a pre-trip inspection should take, but if there is nothing wrong, it usually takes between 15-30 minutes. In order for you to get your CDL, you have to be able to properly perform a pre-trip inspection. The engine and the front of the truck You should take a look at all of the components under the hood, including the critical fluids. These include power steering, coolant, windshield washer fluid, and engine oil. You also need to check the water pump, alternator, and air compressor. Lastly, make sure you review the suspension, brakes, and tires. Truck side and rear When checking the sides and rear of the truck, make sure you take a look at the air hoses, exhaust, and the catwalk. Also, make sure you review the drive axle, including the tires, brakes, and suspension. Coupling Device Make sure you specifically check the fifth wheel and kingpin. The tractor portions will include the skid plate, slide locking pin, and the pivot pin and release arm. You also need to check the trailer portion, which includes the apron, the bottom of the trailer, and the kingpin. Cab check and engine start The cab check should begin with you checking your seatbelt, the shifting distance, room for the clutch, and that the parking brake is on. Once you turn the vehicle on, check the windshield wipers, the gauges, the heat and defrost, and the vehicle lights. This is also the time to build air pressure for the airbrakes for the brake check. Brake check Drivers must ensure that all aspects of the brake system are in proper order. This includes the air brakes, parking brakes, and hydraulic brakes. Safety equipment check Lastly, you must confirm the cab includes a fire extinguisher, three safety triangles, and electrical fuses. Do I really need to perform a pre-trip truck inspection? Yes! Don’t get lazy when it comes to your pre-trip truck inspection. Take the time to go through the inspection to help mitigate problems on the road. There is always a chance that something could go wrong, even if you’ve never had a problem before. By performing your pre-trip inspections, you’ll save yourself time, money, and potentially your life or someone else’s down the road.