Taking the time to create a trip plan is key to having a successful journey. A good trip plan helps make sure deliveries are on time, can avoid stressful situations, and keeps you safe on the road. Below are some tips and information to keep in mind as you create your own individual trip plan.
Customer Pickup & Delivery Requirements
Ensure you can safely make pickups and deliveries on time. Review your pickup and delivery notes for appointment details, which can be helpful in adjusting your trip for time zone changes. Also, plan your trip to arrive at least one hour early, allowing extra time for unexpected events such as traffic delays, detours, or breakdowns.
Hours of Service
Understanding and adhering to the Hours of Service (HOS) can help you know if you have enough hours each day to meet your requirements. Check your electronic logging device (ELD) to see the number of hours you have available. PAM Transport has an entire team dedicated to helping Drivers understand how to properly log hours of service.
Route Planning
Mapping out your route is key to trip planning. Using the co-pilot GPS to search up our route for the best result on how to get there. While Apple Maps might be a convenient GPS for everyday use, it’s not tailored for specific truck drivers. A Road Atlas, or GPS programs developed for Tractor-Trailers such as Trucker Path and Rand McNally, are great resources that contain information such as roads not rated for heavy loads, weight restrictions, and bridges with low clearances.
Research your stops ahead of time, including locations for fuel, meal breaks, and rest. Before starting your journey, ensure you have planned your fuel stops. Truck drivers should monitor fuel levels consistently throughout the trip and maintain a steady driving speed to optimize fuel efficiency.
Weather conditions can have a significant impact on a driver’s trip. Check the weather forecast before hitting the road and plan accordingly. It’s important to consider hills and mountains along your route. Drivers should be prepared to navigate through hills and mountains safely, adjusting their speed and making sure their brakes are in condition to handle the descents.
Use an average speed of 50mph as a reference point when calculating your travel time. This takes into consideration road conditions, such as traffic, construction, inclement weather, auto accidents, driving breaks, and other potential factors that can impact average speed.
Identify parking options along your route in advance, as parking spots can fill up quickly. Parking can be a challenge at night and at truck stops near big cities. Drivers should know where they will be parking and not violate hours of service regulations. It’s important to have a plan b in case their first choice is full.
Know Your Customer
Before planning your trip, make sure you understand your customer’s requirements. Many delivery locations have designated entrances for trucks. Knowing these in advance can save time and reduce the hassle. Some customers require drivers to wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) check ahead of time if needed before arriving on site. Certain customers may require the use of specific apps for check-ins. Make sure you have the appropriate apps downloaded and are familiar with how to use them beforehand. Additionally, verify if load locks or straps are necessary for securing cargo.
Communicate
Keeping communication open between a driver and their support team is important for a safe and successful trip. Communicating with your driver manager when situations arise or when appointments that cannot be kept can impact not only the driver, but others as well. It keeps everyone updated, helps resolve any issues quickly, and ensures everything runs smoothly.
As you execute trip, drivers should review the plan and adjust as needed from the beginning of the trip to the end. By following these tips, you can do everything in your power to ensure a smooth and efficient trip.