Day: December 7, 2017

FMCSA Grant Helps Cover Costs to Train Vets to Become Semi Truck Drivers

Vets Get Funding to Train as Semi Truck Drivers from FMCSA
Vets Get Funding to Train as Semi Truck Drivers from FMCSA

Over the past few years, the trucking industry has been facing a driver shortage. In efforts to encourage more people to become truck drivers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is offering a grant for veterans to receive training.

Effects of Driver Shortage

The driver shortage doesn’t just affect the trucking industry. It has also had an effect on warehousing, with deliveries taking longer in general. This has kept warehouse employees busy moving warehouse items around and ensuring that there’s enough space to store items until they’re ready to be picked up.

From employees who stock warehouse shelves to those who operate a powered trailer dolly to move items around, those who work in the warehousing industry need to make sure that they’re able to keep doing their jobs safely.

FMCSA Grant

The FMCSA grant should help alleviate some of these problems. Under the terms of this grant, veterans who are eligible for the Trucking with the Troops program receive assistance with fees and tuition at Hawkeye Community College. The college offers a six-week or 16-week program that teaches veterans how to safely operate commercial vehicles, so that they can get their license and become truck drivers.

With the driver shortage in effect, this offers a solid opportunity for well-paying employment for those who have served in the Armed Forces. The grant is also available for spouses and children of veterans, making it more affordable for them to become truck drivers. This financial assistance should help increase the number of truck drivers who are on the road.

If you need a powered trailer dolly for your company, please contact DJ products. We offer several high-quality trailer products that help your employees work as safely as possible.

Feds Propose Banning Mexico-Based Rigs from Driving on US Highways in New NAFTA Negotiations

DJ Products Supplies Equipment for Shunting Trailers
DJ Products Supplies Motorized Trailer Dollies for Moving Semi Trailers

Long-haul trucking companies may need to add more motorized trailer dollies soon. The long, controversial history of the North American Free Trade Agreement could be adding another chapter.

Renegotiating NAFTA

During recent NAFTA negotiations, President Donald Trump’s team put forth an extensive list of demands to be met in order to keep the agreement in effect. One of the conditions was removing the Mexican long-haul industry from a NAFTA chapter on cross-border services.

While the U.S. Trade Representative’s office has remained mum on the content of their proposals, a number of sources close to the negotiations have reported this particular demand. It was described as a “broad industry exclusion” that was submitted during October’s round of talks.

U.S. and Mexico Trucking Industries: A Contentious Relationship

Even after NAFTA went into effect, the U.S. put up several roadblocks to Mexican truckers operating in the country. Initially, they could transport loads only a short distance across the border before transferring them to American truckers.

In 2001 a dispute resolution panel found in Mexico’s favor, but the U.S. refused to comply, causing Mexico to impose retaliatory tariffs. Finally, in 2015, the U.S. granted licensed Mexican truckers the right to haul cargo across the country.

If the new proposal goes into effect, it could be a step toward restricting Mexican truckers once again. Without the advantages and protections afforded by NAFTA, Mexico would have a hard time challenging future trucking requirements imposed by the U.S.

Motorized Trailer Dollies from DJ Products

Did you know that most injuries and damage to trailers occur in the yard? Visit our website to learn why motorized trailer dollies such as our Electric Yard Dog are your solution for safer and more efficient operations.

The Important Trends that Are Shaping the Hotel Industry You Are Sure to See in 2018

The Hotel Industry is Being Shaped By Some Important Trends
The Hotel Industry Trends Will You See in 2018?

In the hotel industry, some trends, such as powered housekeeping carts, are here to stay. Others have a shorter shelf life. Which one of these current hospitality trends will be part of the scene into the new year and beyond?

1. Co-Living

The hotel industry is increasingly putting a focus on the concept of community. One result is the rise in pod hotels, “poshtels” and other properties influenced by communal living options such as hostels.

2. A Complete Guest Experience

Not content to be simply an accommodations provider, Airbnb recently branched out into the tours and activities business. Watch for hotels to follow suit.

3. Redefining Loyalty

Loyalty programs are an integral part of hotel marketing strategies, but they run the risk of ultimately disenchanting members, such as what has happened with airlines. Hotels need to rework their programs to emphasize the personal touch and reward true loyalty instead of just dollars spent.

4. Back to Basics

Technology has transformed the way hotels operate and taken guest services to a new level, but it’s personal attention that defines the hospitality industry. Successful hotels will find new ways to offer genuine customer service to their guests.

5. Think Local

At one time hotels served as community centers, but their attention turned toward serving out-of-town travelers. In the future, hotels will again consider the local community and ways to provide solutions to their needs as well.

Improve Safety and Productivity with Powered Housekeeping Carts

You can’t afford to keep guests waiting, and powered housekeeping carts from DJ Products let your staff turn rooms quickly and efficiently with less risk of injury. Visit our website and use the convenient online chat feature for real-time assistance from our sales engineers.