FTM Dispatch

Steep mountain roads and winter weather conditions can make truck driving and installing chains a challenge. But putting chains on a truck’s tires can make the difference between getting stuck on the side of the road and making a pickup or delivery on time.

Law school
Certain states require commercial truck drivers to carry chains during certain times of the year, even if the weather is clear. This is because conditions can change quickly in some areas, especially with elevation. Chains are more commonly used in the western and northern U.S. than other regions.

Clothes make the man/woman
Putting chains on is a cold and dirty process. Waterproof coveralls and mud boots are the ideal ensemble for chaining up. They make the process a little easier on drivers and they won’t have to change clothes after they finish. According to The American Driver website, “It’ll be the best expense you’ll ever make for winter driving conditions.”

My way or the highway?
There’s no specific process or only one right way for installing chains. Drivers should find what works for them. However, many of them, including Smart Trucking’s Catherine MacMillan, have found it best to lay the chains out alongside each tire, checking for damage or kinks. Damaged chains will put drivers in violation of many chain laws and improper installation will cause damage.

Train and practice, practice, practice
No matter which process they choose, carriers should encourage their drivers to practice chaining up in a warm, dry space.

Important Things to Know About Tire Chains while Driving Truck on Winter Snow

1. Keep to a Safe Speed
2. Avoid Bare Pavement
3. Chains Slip-on Pavement
4. Routine Inspections Are Necessary
5. Chained Tighteners Can Cause Problems
6. State Regulations for Using Tire Chains

Identifying your cost per mile helps your business by allowing you to see spending patterns and areas you can cut costs. It means you know what a fair rate is to move a load so you don’t operate at a loss. It also helps with a business plan if you’re getting your own trucking authority.

If you want to get the most out of your cost-per-mile for decision making, you need to understand your variable costs versus your fixed costs.

There are three key areas where knowing your cost-per-mile will put you ahead of the pack.
1. It will help you know if you should take a load or not.

2. It can give you a good idea whether or not you will be able to make money based on current rates brokers and shippers are paying.

3. Knowing how much your maintenance and repairs will cost can help you see trouble before it starts causing you lots of problems.

Driver turnover rate in 2020 was 82%. Check our blog and see what are 3 main reasons by our opinion why is this happening. Also see how this can benefit you or your business.

Here at FTM Dispatch we care about you and your business. That is the reason why our partner carriers are successful !

Why Are Truck Drivers Quitting | FTM Dispatch Truck drivers have been quitting their job at an alarming rate for many years now and trucking companies don't seems to care.

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