By Jake Krough Recently, it has become more common to see a female behind the wheel of a big rig. However, there is still a lot of room to grow in this area of the industry. Associations like Women In Trucking are continuing their push to introduce more women to trucking and break some of the norms in an industry that has long been dominated by males. I spoke with long-time Women In Trucking member Linda Caffee and asked her some questions about life on the road for female truck drivers. Linda has been driving as a team with her husband Bob since 2005 but has been driving trucks for many years longer than that. After our conversation, I was left feeling encouraged, knowing that we have women like Linda representing females in the trucking industry. What is life like for female truck drivers? When I first asked Linda about what life is like as a female truck driver she responded with “Awesome”. She went on to explain that women are a viable force in the trucking industry and that the number of women entering the industry continues to grow. Overall, Linda explained that life as a woman truck driver is not that different than life as a male truck driver. This is because the truck and the freight don't care who is driving, as long as it gets to where it needs to go. However, I did learn that women tend to do things a little differently. One of the main differences is that women tend to drive with more finesse, while men tend to drive a bit more aggressively. This is not always true but is a common trend that Linda has noticed. Another thing women do a little differently is talk to each other more compared to men. Women being more vocal is part of what has attributed to the number of women in the industry continuing to grow. Ultimately, Linda explained that it’s all about a woman's attitude and the way they carry themselves that will define what life is like for them on the road. How has the industry changed for female truck drivers? Overall, the trucking industry has become a lot more accepting of female truck drivers. Linda explained that some in the industry used to not be accepting of women truck drivers but now that sentiment is starting to change. Another big change is the way the new trucks are built. Trucks used to not fit people who were too short or too tall, but now they are built to be adjusted for anybody. This used to be a big disadvantage for women to be able to drive a truck. For example, Linda used to carry around a pillow to sit on in order to fit and be comfortable in the truck. Lastly, truck stops now have showers that can be used privately by both women and men. When Linda first started, someone would have to guard the door while a woman would shower. Now, not only are showers private, but they are also more homey and comfortable. Overall, the industry has changed to be more accepting of women drivers and other truckers have been embracing the change. What are the biggest advantages and disadvantages of being a female truck driver? Linda brought up that a lot of women thinking about getting in the industry are scared about being on the road because they might not get to see their family as much. It’s true that you may not be able to attend special family events due to scheduling conflicts, or you may be away from home at a time when your family really needs you. However, in some circumstances, you may be able to see your family more than you would in other professions. Also, truck drivers are almost always available to talk to friends and family on their headset while driving. Another advantage that was previously mentioned is that in terms of the work that needs to be done, there is no distinction between who is driving. When you are choosing a load, nobody knows whether it is a man or woman who is driving, and the pay is the same. The load and the truck don’t discriminate. One of the major disadvantages, according to Linda, is that women may have the tendency to become somewhat of a hermit in the truck. Women may feel more timid and not want to get out of the truck because there aren’t as many other women at truck stops. To combat this, Linda recommends that women truck drivers avoid dark truck stops, stay in lighted roadways, and walk with a purpose. This will help defer potential scare tactics by other drivers. Another way to help be less timid is to stay connected with other women in the industry through social media and other female truck driving groups. This allows you to build a network of women drivers to communicate with while on the road and potentially plan meet-ups to share experiences and support each other. How do you see the landscape changing for female truck drivers in the future? Linda sees the landscape continuing to get better for female truck drivers. The good news is that better trucks and accommodations are already available, which will help continue to bring more women into the industry. If a change towards fewer long-haul loads and more terminal-to-terminal loads takes place, it could be beneficial to woman truck drivers. This would make it more likely for women to do the job because they will have the opportunity to be home more often. Additionally, as women share their positive experiences on social media, it will likely encourage more women to give trucking a try. Every day, there are more ways to network with other women, ask questions, and share experiences. Oftentimes, when a woman learns how to drive a truck, they realize it’s not as hard as it may seem. This will help continue to change the landscape for female truck drivers. What can we do to attract more female drivers? As an industry, the main thing that we can do to attract more female truck drivers is education. This will allow women to realize that there are actually a lot of other women in the industry. Education will also allow females to get up in a truck and realize that trucks have become easier to drive. There are so many safety features now that it almost feels like driving a luxury car. Also, the high visibility inside of the truck makes driving one less intimidating. When you are driving, you can see everything in front of you and it helps you feel more in control with more time to react. Linda feels that she actually has more control over a truck than a car. Lastly, over the years, other drivers have gotten a lot better at sharing the road with truckers. Most of the time, cars treat trucks with respect and know how to drive around a truck. When you turn on your signal, cars are now more likely to give you a chance to get over. A truck has become easier to drive and it is not as intimidating as it once was. Sharing this information with potential women drivers is what will ultimately bring more of them into the industry. -- Much of this information comes from the experiences of Linda Caffee, who is just one of over 200,000 female truck drivers currently on the road. We understand that other women truck drivers will have different experiences and thoughts about the industry. For more information about Linda Caffee, click here .

As a society, it has become less common to have conversations with others face-to-face. This is true for almost everybody, including truckers. Because of this, online forums have become a great place for truck drivers to converse with others in the industry. These forums are commonly used to ask questions, look for answers, discuss industry topics or news, talk about personal interests, etc. If you are looking for a place where you can communicate with other truck drivers, here are five trucking forums that you should follow. Truckers Report  The Truckers Report forum currently has over 243,000 members, 321,000 discussions, and 6,700,000 messages. There are many categories including Good & Bad Trucking Companies, Owner Operators, Trucking Industry, Trucking Tools, etc. The forum allows you to see the title of the most recent post, who made the most recent post, and how long ago the post was made in each category. Many of the categories have new posts made every hour and the forum seems to remain very active.  Trucking Truth TruckingTruth was founded in January 2007 by 15-year trucking veteran, Brett Aquila. Brett created the forum to help people better understand the industry and make the best choices for their career. The forum is neatly organized with straight-forward categories. There is a general forum, a CDL training forum, and a Ladies of Trucking forum. You can also search for discussions based on a certain topic, and look back at some of the most helpful comments made on the forum over the years. Lastly, the forum has help videos where you can learn about the different categories and how to use the different features available when leaving a comment.   Freight Relocators The Freight Reolcators forum currently has over 13,000 members, 35,000 threads, and 530,000 messages. Within each forum, there are sub-forums that discuss topics that are even more specific to what you are looking for. The home page also allows you to see the latest posts across all of the many categories and the latest resources where members discuss different products or services that they are using to help them on the road. Class A Drivers The Class A Drivers forum currently has over 39,000 members, 26,000 threads, and 370,000 posts. The forum’s website lets you know how many users are currently active on the forum and what sub-category they are viewing. This way, you are able to go to an active thread with your comments and receive responses quickly. The sub-categories are given short and concise descriptions so you are easily able to tell what each discussion is about.  ExpeditersOnline.com ExpeditersOnline.com  is the leading expedite trucking website. They have a forum on their website that was established all the way back in 1999. The forum has over 22,000 members, 56,000 threads, and 730,000 messages. The forum allows you to see what's new, what members are on the website, and how long ago a message has been added to a specific thread or topic. If you are looking to get into expediting or are already an expediter, this is the perfect place for you to learn and stay up to date with all things expediting. Trucking Forums: What Should I Look For? These are just a few of the many different trucking forums out there. It’s easy to find other forums online with a quick search. When looking through the different forums, make sure they have active users, are easy to navigate, and that discussion topics are relevant to what you’re looking for. If you keep these things in mind, you will be able to find a forum that is best for you.

We'd all be sitting here naked and hungry! National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2024 is from September 15th-21st. Truck drivers will be celebrated for the commitments and sacrifices they continuously make to keep our country moving forward. Much of the general public doesn't realize how important truck drivers are in their lives. When we don’t see the processes that our daily necessities and luxuries go through, we can take them for granted. When we go to the grocery store we might see someone stocking a shelf, but we don’t see the truck driver who delivered those supplies. If truck drivers stopped working, the impact on our daily lives and our economy would be truly disastrous. Here are some examples of what the world would look like if it weren't for truck drivers: Imagine the first 24 hours without truck drivers Hospitals would begin running low of basic medical supplies Long lines would begin to form for fuel Mail and package delivery services would stop Within two to three days Grocery stores and restaurants would run out of fresh food Banks and ATMs would run out of cash Service stations would run out of fuel Cities and suburbs would begin to gather piles of uncollected garbage Within one week Lack of fuel would cause motor transportation to cease Lack of fuel would also mean that police, fire, and other rescue vehicles would be unable to provide assistance Hospitals would begin running low on oxygen supplies And finally, within one month Clean water supply would be gone And almost all manufacturers would have to shut down due to lack of components, leaving thousands out of work... This information should help us realize just how important truck drivers truly are. It's important to keep in mind that a truck doesn't deliver anything. It's the truck driver that delivers the much needed inventories and supplies that keeps the world turning. Truck drivers should not just be appreciated this week, but every week, for all of the hard work they do.

Motor Carrier Authority refers to the legal permission granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to operate as a motor carrier or trucking company in the United States. This authority is necessary for any company or individual planning to transport goods or passengers using commercial motor vehicles across state lines. The process of obtaining motor carrier authority involves completing an application, paying the appropriate fees, and complying with various federal and state regulations. This includes but is not limited to, obtaining a USDOT number, securing insurance, appointing a process agent, and implementing an alcohol testing program. Additionally, motor carriers must undergo compliance reviews and may be subject to safety audits to ensure they are operating safely and in compliance with federal regulations. Having motor carrier authority and receiving an MC number is crucial for companies in the trucking industry as it allows them to legally operate and provide their services to customers. Have questions about getting your own authority? Click here! Who needs MC trucking authority? The entities that require MC trucking authority include motor carriers and freight brokers who transport freight across state lines. Carriers, in this context, refer to companies or individuals that transport goods or passengers for hire using commercial motor vehicles. These carriers must obtain MC trucking authority before operating as common carriers, which means they transport goods for the general public. Freight brokers, often referred to as intermediaries, connect shippers with carriers. They do not personally transport goods, but they help arrange transportation services. Freight brokers must obtain MC trucking authority to engage in this activity. Who does not need MC authority? There are certain circumstances in which carriers or freight brokers are exempt from obtaining MC authority. One such exemption applies to intrastate carriers who exclusively operate within the borders of their own state and do not engage in any interstate transportation. These carriers do not require MC authority as they are solely focused on serving the transportation needs within their state. Another exemption applies to private fleets. These fleets are owned and operated by businesses exclusively for their own goods transportation needs. Since private fleets do not transport goods for the general public, they are not required to obtain MC authority. There are also specific situations where MC authority is not required for carriers. For instance, carriers transporting non-regulated cargo, such as certain exempt commodities, may not need MC authority. Additionally, carriers operating exclusively within a designated commercial zone may be exempt from obtaining MC authority. Is the MC Number and USDOT Number the Same? The MC Number and USDOT Number are not the same, although they are both important for carriers operating in the trucking industry. The USDOT Number is a unique identifier assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is required for all commercial vehicles involved in interstate or intrastate commerce, regardless of the type or size of the vehicle. This number helps track a carrier's safety record and compliance with federal regulations. On the other hand, the MC Number is specific only to carriers involved in interstate operations. Also, brokers require an MC number but do not need a USDOT number. While both the MC Number and USDOT Number serve as identifiers for trucking companies, they aren’t both required for all commercial vehicles. MC Authority Application Process The application process for obtaining operating authority in the motor carrier industry can be a complex and time-consuming task. The entire process can take anywhere from 20 to 60 business days, depending on the specific circumstances. Applying for motor carrier authority requires meeting certain requirements and submitting the necessary documents and fees. To ensure a smooth application process, it is important to follow these steps diligently. Step 1: Create a Business Entity To apply for your MC authority, the FMCSA will consider your cargo type, company type , and more. This is why the first step is to obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and establish yourself as an official business entity. Carriers and brokers must also be approved for liability and cargo insurance coverage . This is crucial because, without coverage, you cannot proceed with the FMCSA registration process. Step 2: Apply for Your USDOT and MC Number The Unified Registration System is used to apply for your USDOT and MC Number, replacing several older forms and creating a single online registration system. To obtain your DOT number, proceed to the Unified Registration System portal and follow the instructions. You cannot proceed with your MC authority application until you’ve obtained your DOT number. Once you've obtained your DOT number, you can start your MC authority application. Gather your truck information, including VIN, year, weight, etc., incorporation details, and license plates (if applicable). Keep in mind there is a $300 non-refundable filing fee. Step 3: File BOC-3 Paperwork BOC-3 stands for Blanket of Coverage and is a legal document that designates a process agent in each state where a trucking company operates. This process agent acts as the company's representative for important legal matters and is responsible for accepting legal and court documents on behalf of the company. To file BOC-3 paperwork, you will need to provide the necessary information about your designated process agent, including their name, contact information, and the states where they will be operating on your behalf. It is important to ensure that the process agent is willing and able to fulfill these responsibilities. Step 4: File Your Universal Carrier Registration (UCR) Permit The UCR permit serves as a verification of active insurance coverage. It ensures that your operating authority is up-to-date and valid in the states you operate in. Your MC number and DOT number are required for this step. Luckily you should have already secured liability and cargo insurance by this point in the process. However, this is still an important part of the process. Step 5: Paying the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) HVUT is an annual tax assessed on all heavy vehicles operating on public highways. This tax is essential for maintaining compliance with federal regulations and ensuring the smooth functioning of the trucking industry. To pay HVUT, you will need to file Form 2290 , also known as the Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return, with the IRS. This form requires you to provide information about your vehicles, such as the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and gross weight. The HVUT payment is based on the weight of your vehicle, what cargo you hauled, and how far you hauled it. The funds collected through HVUT are used for various transportation-related purposes, including the maintenance and construction of highways. Remember, paying HVUT is a vital step in maintaining your motor carrier authority and ensuring compliance with federal tax regulations. Also, you cannot register for IRP (International Registration Plan) until you have submitted your form 2290. Step 6: Register for an International Registration Plan (IRP) Carriers must register for an International Registration Plan (IRP), which is an agreement among 48 states and Canada. This allows carriers to register their vehicles in one location and pay apportioned license fees to operate in other jurisdictions. The fees vary based on the amount of time operated in each jurisdiction and can range from $1,500 to $2,000 per vehicle. By registering for IRP and obtaining apportioned plates, your trucking company will have the necessary authorization to operate across multiple jurisdictions. This streamlines the process and ensures compliance with regulations in each state. Step 7: Set Up an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Account IFTA is a similar agreement between 48 states and Canada for collecting taxes on fuel use. Quarterly returns must be filed in your home state to remain compliant with IFTA. Other states may require additional permits in addition to an IFTA license. To be certain all regulations are being met, familiarize yourself with the rules of any state you will do business in. Step 8: Enroll in a FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Once you have your MC authority, DOT number, and permits, you need to complete one more step. The FMCSA mandates all CDL drivers in your organization to join a drug and alcohol testing program. The FMCSA and USDOT have set rules for testing, substances, and frequency. The FMCSA provides instructions on staying compliant with their drug and alcohol testing requirements. Ready to Set Up Your MC Authority? In conclusion, obtaining MC trucking authority is vital for motor carriers and brokers in the transportation industry. This authority signifies compliance with federal regulations and ensures the safety and integrity of operations. Click here to download our list of industry partners who provide services for truck drivers with their own authority and take advantage of exclusive discounts . It is important to note that maintaining active operating authority and adhering to federal regulations is essential for remaining in business. If you have additional questions about getting your own operating authority or need help with the process, click here !

The days are longer and the temperatures are warmer – so it must be spring. For many of us, that means it’s time for some spring cleaning. But why stop with sprucing up your living space? This year, consider extending the “spring cleaning” concept to your finances as well. How can you tidy your finances? Here are some suggestions: “De-clutter” your portfolio As you go through your home during your spring cleaning rounds, you may notice that you've acquired a lot of duplicate objects – do you really need five mops? – or at least some things you can no longer use, like a computer that hasn’t worked for years. You can create some valuable space by getting rid of these items. And the same principle can apply to your investment portfolio, because over the years you may well have acquired duplicate investments that aren’t really helping you move toward your goals. You may also own some investments, which, while initially fitting into your overall strategy, no longer do so. You could be better off by selling your “redundant” investments and using the proceeds to purchase new ones that will provide more value. Get organized During your spring cleaning, one of your key goals may be to get organized. So you might want to rearrange the tools in your garage or establish a new filing system in your home office. Proper organization is also important to investors – and it goes beyond having your brokerage statements in nice neat piles. For example, you may have established IRAs with different financial services companies. By moving them to one provider, you may save some fees and reduce your paperwork, but, more important, you may find that such a move actually helps you better manage your investments. You’ll know exactly where your money is going, and it could be easier to follow a single investment strategy. Also, with all your IRAs in one place, it will be much easier for you to manage the required minimum distributions you must start taking when you turn 70-1/2. (These distributions are not required for Roth IRAs.) Protect your family’s financial future When cleaning up this spring, you may notice areas of concern around protecting your home – perhaps there’s a crack in your window, or your fence is damaged or part of your chimney is crumbling. Your financial independence – and that of your family – also needs protection. Is your life insurance sufficient to pay for your mortgage, college for your kids, and perhaps some retirement funds for your spouse? Do you have disability insurance that can provide you with some income if you become ill or injured and can’t work for a while? Have you considered the high costs of long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay? A financial professional can help you determine if your insurance coverage is adequate for all these needs and if you're paying too much. Look for recurring expenses Each year it seems like most of us are always signing up for at least one subscription based service. Log in to your bank account and browse through your statement. Do you see any recurring expenses that you no longer have a need for? If you do, then make sure you cancel them because that is money right back in your pocket. Knock out your debt If you have found yourself struggling with debt, then now is the perfect time to start working towards eliminating it. If you need a little help getting started with the process, take a look at The Avalanche Method . With this, you will prioritize your debts by their interest rate. Start by paying off the debt that has the highest rate and then move on to the next highest debt until you are debt-free. Another popular method is The Snowball Method , where you will start with the debt with the lowest balance and move on to the next highest balance until everything is paid off. Start your tax planning for next year Don’t wait until the end of the year to start planning for next year’s taxes. If you are a company driver that receives a W-2 make sure that your W-4 form is up to date. If you get married or have kids then your allowances will have changed. This is also a good time to start making charitable donations, which will help lower your taxable income. Consider putting these spring cleaning suggestions to work. They may help you keep your financial house in good shape for all the seasons yet to arrive. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Greg Hall, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. He can be contacted via email at greg.hall@edwardjones.com or via phone at 303-985-0045.

Constructing a personalized profit plan is one of the most important things that an owner-operator can do. This is your roadmap to financial success. A profit plan consists of two main items: revenue, and expenses. When determining revenue for a client, we run through quite a few different pieces of information that help give us a complete picture. We start by determining the number of miles a client thinks they will run on any given month. We then use their rate per mile to give us a good starting point. Other factors like fuel surcharge and miscellaneous pay will allow us to determine total revenue. Once we have determined the kind of revenue your business expects to make, it’s time to talk about the expenses you will encounter. Things like your truck payment, truck insurance , licenses, permits, and FHUT are all fixed expenses. These are things that you pay for whether or not your truck is running. In addition to fixed expenses, there are also variable expenses that can fluctuate from month to month. Things like fuel, maintenance, and fuel taxes are all examples of variable expenses.  Once we have helped you put together your profit plan, you will know exactly how many miles you need to run each month in order to break even. Once you hit your break-even point, from there it’s all profit in your pocket. It’s a good idea to review this profit plan several times throughout the year to see how you’re doing and make sure your numbers haven't changed. Are you making enough money to pay your quarterly tax estimates? Have you saved enough for that vacation you’ve been planning? Are you running the miles you thought you would? All of these are questions you should be asking yourself on a regular basis. If you haven’t created a profit plan for your business yet, call ATBS to get started. Your assigned business consultant will walk you through all the things that help make up your monthly revenue and expenses and guide you to higher profitability.

The freight market has been navigating rough waters lately, creating challenges for many owner-operator truck drivers. The upcoming 2024 election adds another layer of uncertainty, with hopes pinned on a potential market rebound post-election. However, it’s important to recognize that regardless of the election outcome, the freight market won’t transform overnight. Policy changes and economic shifts take time to ripple through the industry, making immediate improvements unlikely. Instead of waiting for the market to rebound, there are proactive steps you can take now to regain control, and positively impact your trucking business: 1. Diversify Your Freight Options Diversifying the types of freight you haul can be a game-changer. Instead of sticking to familiar routes and cargo, explore new opportunities in industries less affected by economic fluctuations. Consider looking into routes in areas of the countries that others aren’t willing to run through, as well. For example, taking on freight that others may shy away from, such as routes into the heavily populated Northeast, can set you apart from the competition. By being willing to haul in areas that are more challenging, or less popular, you can tap into a niche market with potentially higher demand. 2. Enhance Fuel Efficiency Fuel costs are one of the most significant expenses for truck drivers. By implementing fuel-saving practices, you can achieve substantial cost reductions. Regular vehicle maintenance, proper tire inflation, and adopting fuel-efficient driving habits are just a few ways to lower fuel consumption. Investing in fuel-efficient technologies, such as aerodynamic add-ons and low-rolling-resistance tires, can further increase savings. 3. Leverage Technology Embracing technology can give you a competitive edge. Utilize apps and software for route optimization, load matching, and real-time tracking to find the best loads, reduce empty miles, and improve efficiency. Telematics systems offer valuable data on vehicle performance and driver behavior, enabling informed decisions that can boost your business’s bottom line. For more resources, see our lists of the best fuel savings cards and apps  and the best overall apps for owner-operators  to maximize your efficiency and savings. 4. Focus on Customer Relationships Building strong relationships with your customers is key to ensuring a steady flow of business. Providing reliable service, maintaining clear communication, and going the extra mile can make you the preferred choice for shippers. Loyal customers are more likely to provide repeat business and refer you to others, creating a stable foundation for your operations. 5. Optimize Your Financial Management Effective financial management is crucial in navigating tough market conditions. Keep detailed records of income and expenses, create a budget, and monitor cash flow closely. Working with a financial advisor specializing in the trucking industry, like our team at ATBS, can help you make informed decisions. Reducing fixed costs, such as by renegotiating insurance premiums or leasing agreements, can further stabilize your finances. 6. Stay Informed and Adapt The freight market is ever-changing, so staying informed about industry trends is vital. Engage with industry associations, read trade publications, and attend webinars like our ATBS Independent Contractor Benchmarks and Trends Driver Webinar on September 18th , to stay current on the industry. Being adaptable and willing to pivot your business strategy can help you weather market fluctuations. Networking with other truck drivers and industry professionals can also provide valuable insights and support. 7. Invest in Professional Development Continuous learning and professional development keep you competitive. Whether it’s understanding new regulations, learning about truck technology advancements, or honing your business skills, investing in your growth can yield long-term benefits. Earning certifications in safety, compliance, or specialized freight can also enhance your marketability and unlock new opportunities. While the freight market’s future remains uncertain, owner-operators can take concrete steps to strengthen their businesses. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate current challenges and position yourself for long-term success, regardless of the political landscape.

At ATBS, we understand that sometimes it can be difficult to find your routine. We know that as an owner-operator, your days and weeks can look very different. However, here are the Top 10 Things an Owner-Operator Should Do Every Day! 1) A Pre-Trip Inspection of your rig. Not only is it mandatory, but it's a great way to start your day. 2) Make the bed. It makes everything look cleaner, and it's an easy thing to accomplish first thing! 3) Plan your meals and snacks for the day ahead of time. Remember to include healthy snacks like fruits & veggies. 4) Map your route and fuel stops. Since fuel is such a big expense, this is a great opportunity to keep more of your hard-earned money! 5) Smile when greeting your dispatcher, a toll booth operator, or even the TA clerk working the register. 6) Plan to move. Seek out a place to walk at the truck stop, find a workout facility nearby, or do a quick workout in the truck. 7) Buckle up! 8) Reach out to your loved ones. Using a headset of course! 9) Send the day's receipts and track your Per Diem in the ATBS Hub . 10) Drive carefully!

Establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) can offer a layer of protection and professionalism often sought in the transportation industry. From the perspective of liability, tax implications, and branding, structuring a business as an LLC has significant advantages for truck drivers. This article will provide a roadmap to establishing an LLC, detailing the pivotal steps involved and other crucial setup tasks to consider, guiding you through the journey of turning your truck driving operation into a formal business entity. Are you a self-employed truck driver who needs help forming your own business entity? Click here! The Benefits of Starting an LLC for Truck Drivers Starting an LLC (Limited Liability Company) can offer significant advantages for truck drivers and trucking businesses within the trucking industry. Below are some benefits of forming an LLC: Limited Liability Protection An LLC safeguards the personal assets of a truck driver, protecting them from the risks associated with business obligations. This means in the event of business debts or legal action, personal properties such as a driver’s home or personal savings would typically not be at risk. Tax Flexibility With an LLC, truck drivers have the ability to choose the most advantageous tax structure for their financial circumstances. They can opt for pass-through taxation, where profits are reported on personal tax returns, or elect to be taxed as a corporation if it benefits their financial goals. Credibility and Professionalism Establishing an LLC conveys a strong message of dedication to responsible and compliant business operations. For trucking companies, this level of professionalism can be pivotal in attracting clients and securing contracts, as it suggests a commitment to legitimacy and stability. In sum, an LLC provides essential shields and options for truck drivers and their businesses. This makes it a compelling choice for those in the trucking industry seeking to establish or grow their operations. Steps to Start an LLC Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) within the trucking industry involves several important steps: Choose a Base State Identify the state in which your LLC will primarily conduct its trucking business. This decision should consider tax structure implications and operational convenience. Name Your LLC Carefully select a unique and compliant name that meets state requirements and reflects your trucking business. Designate a Registered Agent Appoint a responsible party or service within your base state to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC. File Articles of Organization Submit the necessary formation documents to the state office, outlining key details about your trucking company. Obtain an EIN Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS, which is necessary for tax purposes and to hire employees. LLC Operating Agreement Draft an agreement that details the ownership structure, member roles, and operation procedures of your trucking business. By following these steps methodically, entrepreneurs in the trucking industry can establish a solid foundation for their company under the protective structure and flexible tax benefits of an LLC. Other Important Setup Tasks Starting a trucking business requires more than just registering your company as a limited liability company (LLC). After determining the appropriate tax structure and formalizing the entity, there are several other critical setup tasks that must be addressed to ensure operational readiness and legal compliance. Business Bank Account Setting up a dedicated business bank account is vital for managing finances, tracking expenses, and maintaining the financial integrity of your trucking company. This separation from personal finances also supports the limited liability status, helping to protect personal assets. Licenses and Permits Your trucking business must acquire the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally within the trucking industry. This may include a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), motor carrier operating authority (MC number), and various state-specific permits. Insurance Coverage Obtaining adequate insurance coverage is essential for protecting your business from potential risks. Required insurance may include liability insurance, cargo insurance, and coverage for any non-owned trailers. These foundational steps create a stable platform for your LLC trucking company to operate within the broader framework of the trucking industry. Tax Options as an LLC After forming an LLC, the business will have the option to be taxed as a C-Corporation, an S-Corporation, or neither and file as a Disregarded Entity, where the business income and expenses are reported on the owner’s personal tax return on a Schedule C. By electing to be taxed as a C-Corporation the business would be required to pay corporate income taxes and the shareholders would be required to pay individual income taxes on the wages and dividends that are distributed by the business entity. This is known as “double taxation” and makes this election unwise for any small business. A great option for a trucking business may be for the owner(s) to elect for their LLC to be taxed as an S-Corporation. The S-Corporation is considered a pass-through entity. This means the income is not taxed at the corporate level and the profits are distributed to the shareholders who pay tax on the percentage of business income allocated to them at the individual level. The individuals are responsible for paying income taxes but they do not pay self-employment (Social Security and Medicare) taxes on distributions. It’s important to note that S-Corporations are required to run regular payroll and pay themselves a W-2 wage. This should be deemed reasonable compensation, which the IRS defines as the wages for a comparable individual in the same industry, with similar experience, and located in a similar location. And, you must file a corporate tax return in addition to your personal tax return. Depending on the level of consistent income, it may be a tax advantage for an LLC to elect to be taxed as an S-Corporation. However, if that income level is not high enough, an LLC electing to be taxed as an S-Corporation may cost more than the savings received in taxes. A general rule of thumb that ATBS suggests is if the business will produce a net income of $80,000/year or more there may be some tax savings being taxed as an S-Corporation. This chart is a simplified example comparing the taxes for an LLC taxed as a sole proprietorship and an LLC taxed as an S-Corporation. LLC - Taxed as a Sole Proprietor LLC - Taxed as an S-Corporation Income $90,000 $90,000 Wages - $50,000 Taxable Income $90,000 $40,000 SE Tax or FICA $13,770 $7,650 TAX SAVINGS $0 $6,120 Here is a free e-Book that goes into much more detail on the different business structures. The decision of whether or not to incorporate your business and file your taxes as an S-Corp should be based on detailed business and tax analysis by your accountant . If you have any questions or want more information, please call ATBS at 866-920-2827, or visit our website at www.atbs.com.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) have been a heated topic lately among drivers, carriers, and the FMCSA. There are positives and negatives to each side, but the bottom line is that times are changing. Adapting to that change can be difficult, but it’s certainly possible. ELD Basics If the regulation is passed, ELDs will be mandatory for all drivers that are currently required to complete paper Records of Duty Status (RODS). Your carrier will be responsible for making sure the ELDs they provide have been registered with the FMCSA. Carriers will have 2-years from the date the mandate is passed to get ELDs installed in their trucks and ready to go. They may install them sooner rather than later to account for the extra training required for drivers during transition. Some notes about ELD and driver interaction: Driver should only log when the vehicle is stopped. Driver does not have to be prompted by the device when approaching a time limit. Driver will be prompted for entry if: If stopped for 5 minutes (will request duty status – the system will default to “on duty” if there is no driver entry). If no position is fixed at duty change (will request location). System must have a mute setting to be used when the driver is in the sleeper berth. ELDs can be programmed to alert the driver if the vehicle stops moving after 5 minutes (to confirm driving). Other automatic duty-status settings are prohibited. Roadside processes: You must be capable of producing a graph grid at a roadside inspection , or be able to print a copy of your log. There should be a one-step process for data transfer (either by web, Bluetooth, or email). The Upside of ELDs ELDs have the potential to make a driver feel as though they are constantly being watched. One positive side of this is that the driver will no longer have to fill out paper logs and worry about whether or not they are right, accurate, etc. This means less stress with tracking, and less chances for error. There will be an adjustment period, and maybe some initial frustration with flexibility. However, after a little time it could end up increasing the opportunity for a more stress-free work environment. Most importantly we have had many drivers and companies tell us that they ultimately became more productive, and drivers have made more money after ELDs were implemented. A great way to help adjust to this change is to make ELDs work for you, instead of against you. Some good advice comes from Jeff Clark – a former Team Run Smart Pro with Freightliner. “Be smart and plan. If you can take your 10-hour break at a shipper, then do it. The ELogs don’t start until you start them, either with a pre-trip or by moving the vehicle. Some regular customers might even allow you to open the doors and back into a dock overnight. Do whatever you can. With ELogs you become wary of starting your day too early. You don’t want to start your clock by driving to a shipper 2 hours before your appointment and waiting. Because of the 14-hour rule I now try to be there just 30 minutes early, instead of as early as possible.” You may have to change the way you handle your day and your schedule, but it is possible to make it work! Important Reminders Be sure to download your ELDs at the end of every month and save it to your computer. Create a folder on your desktop labeled “E-Logs”, then a new folder inside that for each year. Make a habit of saving each month of your E-Logs in that folder! Carriers are only required to save your logs for the past 6-months , so it’s important to maintain these records for yourself in case of a tax audit to verify and calculate your per diem days . The ELD change is inevitably coming, but how you choose to adapt to it will truly be what affects the outcome. Go into the change with an open mind, and make the effort to think positively. It will be an adjustment, and may be difficult at times. But working on it and making the effort to be flexible will make the change a little easier. Additional information and resources: http://www.regulations.gov (docket number FMCSA-2010-0167), here is a direct link to the rule where you can comment: http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FMCSA-2010-0167-0972

By Jake Krough In order for me to get a better understanding of what life is like as a truck driver, ATBS sent me on a three-day road trip with longtime owner-operator and Team Run Smart Pro, Henry Albert. I started in the Marketing Department at ATBS in May of 2018. My day-to-day duties include running our social media accounts, writing blogs for our website, and sending out emails. This is my first job out of college and I started with little knowledge about the trucking industry. I have learned a lot during my time here. However, because my job is all about connecting with truckers, ATBS thought it would be a good idea for me to go out and experience life on the road. Obviously, in three days I was not able to get a complete understanding of what it is like to live on the road. However, I was able to learn a lot and leave with a greater appreciation for what truckers go through each and every day. Since I learned so much in my short time on the road, narrowing this down was difficult, but, here are the five most important things I learned while on the road for the first time. I learned about the patience that is required While being on the road, I quickly learned about the patience that is required to be a truck driver. Whether we were waiting at the shipper to get loaded, waiting in traffic, or waiting to go back on duty after the mandatory 10 hours off duty, it seemed like there were a lot of things that kept us waiting to get to our destination as quickly and efficiently as possible. When I was on the truck, we waited at the shipper for about 19 hours before we got loaded up, and that was with everything being on schedule. We got to the shipper at around 6:30 p.m. and didn’t get loaded until about 12:30 p.m. the next day. A lot of this time was spent either in the cab or in the break room at the shipper. Henry had hoped we would be able to get loaded a little early, but unfortunately, we were not able to. However, we were loaded up at our scheduled time, so I guess there is nothing wrong with that! I imagine there are many times truckers are having to wait past their scheduled load times due to delays at the shipper or receiver. We also had to wait quite a bit going through downtown Dallas and Austin due to traffic. Henry told me before we made it into Texas that there is never a good time to drive through Dallas and Austin because there is always traffic. Even with Henry letting me know about this, it was still surprising that Dallas had traffic at 11:30 p.m. Luckily the traffic wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been if we were attempting to get through downtown during rush hour. As a trucker, the chances of you going through multiple major cities a day is significant, which means your patience will be tested frequently. Even though the amount of time we had to wait during these three days was relatively mild, I was able to imagine how much truckers have to wait on a day-by-day basis and how much patience is required. I learned about the difficulty of parking During my time on the road, there were two situations that I got to see the difficulty that comes with parking. The first scenario came when Henry decided to reserve a parking spot at the TA Petro in Hillsboro, Texas. He knew that we wouldn’t get into Hillsboro until around 12:00 a.m. and by that time all of the spots could be taken up. So on this occasion, he reserved a spot ahead of time. Unfortunately, when we showed up there was still plenty of free parking available. I understand the safety in spending the money to guarantee a spot and not risking going over the on-duty time looking for one. However, I can see where truckers would get frustrated if they spend money on a reserved spot when open spots are available. I can imagine the little gamble a trucker goes through each day when deciding whether to reserve a spot or banking on one still being available. The second scenario came on my last day in the truck when Henry needed to drop me off near downtown San Antonio in order for me to get to the airport. It took some planning in advance to decide where Henry was going to be able to park and drop me off. Henry was not going to be able to drop me off right next to the airport because maneuvering was going to be too difficult. We decided on a drop-off spot about 20 miles south of the airport in an area that Henry was familiar with. Even though he was familiar, it was still a challenge finding a place that was truck accessible. Through this scenario, I learned that truckers aren’t always able to pull off wherever they want like the driver of a car can. I see the planning a trucker has to go through even when finding a place to park for a short period of time. I learned about how to run your own authority successfully Through the many conversations I had with Henry, the one that really stood out was our conversation about what it takes to run your own authority . Henry has run his own successful authority for over 20 years. The three things that he said were most important were acquiring customers, understanding freight rates, and being different. First, we talked about acquiring customers. Henry let me know the difference between getting loads through a load board and actually having your own customers that you are hauling for consistently. Henry said that the first step in acquiring customers is giving them a deal in price or time of delivery the first couple of times you haul freight for them. Once you have given the shipper a deal, you have to provide over-the-top service to the receiver. The service that you provide should be so good that they start asking the shipper specifically for you to deliver their freight. Once the receiver has asked about your services, you have the power to negotiate. Next, we talked about freight rates. Henry told me that in order to be successful you need to look at the total trip and not just one way. This means that it is okay to take a load that you just breakeven on if the load that got you there, or the one you will return with, will make you good money. He said it was better to take a load that breaks even than to turn down a load while waiting for “good” loads. Any time you are not running, you are losing money. Henry also said that it’s important to understand that freight rates are controlled by supply and demand and not operating costs. This means that the rates of 10 loads that one person wants are going to be a lot better than the rate of one load that 10 people want. I thought that was a good thing to keep in mind and it made me realize how owner-operators constantly need to be thinking like business owners. Lastly, we talked about being different. Being different allows you to separate yourself from the competition and be somebody your clients always go back to. What Henry does to be different is simply wear a tie. This way he looks presentable to his clients and people trust him with whatever he is hauling for them. It really only takes something that simple to separate yourself from the others. I learned about how advanced trucks are becoming Henry drives a 2018 Freightliner AeroX 72” RR Sleeper Cab. It had a lot of the new technology that has increased the safety and efficiency of driving a truck . Henry has been in the trucking industry for over 30 years and has driven many trucks with varying degrees of technology. A few of the features that really stood out was the adaptive cruise control, the radar system, and the lane departure warning system. Henry is able to set the adaptive cruise control to a certain speed with parameters for how much faster or slower than that speed the truck can go. The truck has a GPS that works with the adaptive cruise control so that it can plan it’s route rather than just react. For example, the truck doesn’t just react, and speed up, when going up a hill. Rather, it is able to see that a hill is coming and plan how to get up and over the hill with the best fuel efficiency . This usually involves speeding up the truck a bit early and putting the engine in “neutral” once it knows it can make it over the hill and down the other side. The two other features that really stood out was the radar system and the lane departure warning system. The radar system is able to track the vehicle in front of the truck and let Henry know how far away the vehicle is and how fast it is going. The lane departure warning system is similar to rumble strips on the road. Every time the truck was starting to go out of the lane it was in, the lane assist would make a beeping noise to warn Henry. It was amazing to see how the technology worked together in the truck and imagine where advancements could take it in the future. Even though the technology in the truck may make it easier to drive, you still have to understand the features and how to use them to your advantage. I learned that trucking is hard work Above all, I left the truck with so much gratitude for what truckers do. Simply put, trucking is hard work. Being on the road by yourself, away from family, driving every day, and having to put up with the stress of trucking would not be easy. Because I was on the road for only a few days, I didn’t really feel all of those struggles that truckers have to go through. However, I was able to imagine what it would feel like if you were on the road during the majority of the year. Even though I imagined how hard trucking would be, I also imagined how exciting it could be. If you are in a role that you love, traveling places you enjoy going, staying on a schedule that works best for you, and making good money from it, the hard work would be worth it. I can also imagine the thrill of starting as a company driver, eventually starting your own company and finally having a goal of owning your own fleet. Working toward a goal like that would make getting on the road every day a little bit better. I did learn how hard trucking can be but I also learned how truckers can make the hard work feel a little bit better. Final Thoughts I’m going to remember all of the things I learned while on my trip and keep them in mind so that I can apply it to my work at ATBS. This trip has allowed me to become more knowledgeable about the trucking industry and will hopefully allow me to connect better with truckers through email, social media, and our website. I want to thank Henry for allowing me to be on the truck with him for a few days and maybe one day I will have the opportunity to do it again.

As an owner-operator, it’s critical to understand the business structure options available to you and when each is most appropriate for your business. The legal form under which you set up your business can have a significant impact on how you run your business, the costs of running your business, and how you are taxed. Understanding the advantages, and disadvantages, of each entity is critical. The small differences in the way each entity is set up, managed, and taxed can make a huge difference to you and your business. In this article, we’ll discuss the four most common ways for truck drivers to set up a business: Sole Proprietorship Partnership Corporation Limited Liability Company (LLC) Sole Proprietorship A sole proprietorship is a business generally owned by one person. Most owner-operators will start with this type of business. Advantages: A sole proprietorship is the least expensive, easiest, and least regulated type of business structure. There is no formal setup and it begins when you start earning revenue as an owner-operator. In the eyes of the law, the owner of a sole proprietorship is the business, and the business is the owner. Since you and the business are one and the same, the business ends when you quit operating as an owner-operator. Because of this, income taxes are fairly simple. The income and expenses from the business are included on your personal tax return. This means any business losses you suffer may offset the income you have earned from other sources. Disadvantages: This form of business does not protect you personally from legal liability. However, carrying the proper insurance should protect you from significant losses in the event of accident liability. It’s important to note that debt incurred by the business is considered debt of the owner. Sole proprietors also need to calculate how much self-employment tax they owe. They pay both employee and employer portions of employment taxes on your self-employed income, which can add up to a large amount depending on your net profit. In addition to paying annual self-employment taxes, you must make estimated tax payments if you expect to owe at least $1,000 in federal taxes for the year after deducting your withholding and credits. Partnership A partnership is similar to a sole proprietorship, but more than one person owns it. The individuals forming the partnership are taxed separately, as they would be if they were sole proprietors. A partnership is easily formed, but a written operating agreement or partnership is strongly recommended to clearly outline the role of each partner and the distribution of profits and losses. It should also formally spell out how you and your partner/ partners will resolve conflict. Advantages: Having access to extra start-up capital, gaining assistance or expertise in some aspect of your business, or having a co-driver who can help increase the miles driven. Disadvantages: Like a sole proprietorship, the partners are not personally protected from legal liability. In addition, it’s important to remember that each partner is held personally liable for the actions of the others in the partnership. Corporation The corporate structure is more complex and expensive to set up than most other business structures. A corporation is an independent legal entity, separate from its owners, and requires complying with more regulations and tax requirements. The biggest benefit for a business owner who decides to incorporate is the liability protection he or she receives. A corporation's debt is not considered that of its owners, so if you organize your business as a corporation, you are not putting your personal assets at risk. A corporation also can retain some of its profits without the owner paying taxes on them. In a corporation, there are initial formation fees, filing fees, annual state fees (like filing annual reports and paying unemployment insurance), additional costs for filing a corporate tax return along with your personal tax return, and monthly fees for payroll and filing payroll taxes. There are two main ways a corporation can be taxed at the federal level: C Corporations and S Corporations. C Corporation C Corporations are not recommended for owner-operator truck drivers due to the double tax on the business's earnings. Not only are C Corporations subject to corporate income tax, but any earnings distributed to shareholders in the form of dividends are taxed at individual tax rates on their personal income tax returns. S Corporation An S Corporation is created through a federal election using Form 2553. In short, an LLC or C Corporation would first be created and the Form 2553, currently filed with the IRS, would allow your business to be federally taxed as an S Corporation. With an S Corporation, the driver is an employee and receives a salary from the corporation. The difference from a C Corporation is that the profits of the business are not subject to tax at the corporate level. Instead, all corporate profits and losses flow directly to the shareholders of the S Corporation and are included on the shareholder’s personal income tax return. Your corporate profits are taxed at the personal level. The result of all this is that you can distribute the profits of the S Corporation to yourself without having to pay taxes on them again, so there’s no double taxation. Advantages: S Corporations give you the liability protection of a corporation without double taxation of a C Corporation. You will save money on taxes by not paying self-employment taxes (15.3%) on the net income of the S Corporation. However, you must make sure your net income is high enough to cover the extra costs and fees. Disadvantages: There’s a lot of talk at the truck stop and on the radio about setting up a corporation, but it’s not as easy as it sounds. If you don’t strictly adhere to managing the corporation “by the rules” then a legal concept called “Piercing The Corporate Veil” can occur and you become personally liable for all activities of the business. This includes all debts, lawsuits, taxes, and penalties. “The Rules” include things like paying yourself payroll (including paying all State and Federal payroll taxes) on a regular and normal basis, maintaining a separate checking account for the business, electing officials, holding regular meetings, etc. Following all the rules of being incorporated is extremely difficult and cumbersome. For most owner-operators, incorporating is not a good choice because the costs of incorporating are greater than the benefits of incorporating. Limited Liability Company (LLC) A limited liability company may offer benefits similar to a corporation. An LLC may offer the limited liability advantages of a corporation but has the tax benefits of a sole proprietor. Taxes for the LLC are prepared using a Schedule C on your personal tax return. This means there is no double taxation. An LLC is simpler and more flexible than a corporation. Formal meetings, records, and many of the forms needed to create a corporation may not be required when setting up and operating an LLC. Advantages: Taxes for the LLC may be prepared using a Schedule C on the individual’s personal tax return. This means double taxation is avoided. An LLC may also elect to be taxed as an S Corporation and receive tax benefits. The shareholders will report net income/losses using a Schedule E. However, an LLC generally does not have the same ongoing meeting requirements as corporations. Disadvantages: Every state treats LLCs differently, which means that an LLC set up in one state may not provide liability protection in another. What should you choose? For the vast majority of owner-operators, it makes the most sense to be a sole proprietor. However, if you have a lot of personal assets that you feel you need to protect, the LLC is probably the next best choice. Once an owner-operator starts making a net profit of around $85,000/year or more, it makes sense to form an LLC and elect to be taxed as an S Corporation so that you can save money on self-employment tax. Every case is unique, but at around $85,000 net income, an owner-operator can save around $4,200 in taxes by filing a corporate return. The additional costs for being incorporated are typically around $1,500 - $2,500. To learn more about choosing a business structure for your trucking business, please call 866-920-2827 to speak with an ATBS enrollment specialist today or download our FREE ebook on Owner-Operator Incorporation .