Tag: Shunt Trucks

Long Haul Semi Drivers May See More Pay Raises as Job Market Tightens

Truck Drivers May See Pay Boosts This Year Due to the Job Market
Truck Drivers May See Pay Boosts This Year Due to the Job Market

Truckers’ pay rates have increased only a fraction as much as other work sectors in the last two decades. Now, carriers are increasing driver rates by several cents per mile and offering compelling sign-on bonuses to poach from their competitors.

For those managing warehouses, the pay raises create a domino effect. Business is good, but efficiency still rules. Even down to operating costs, such as how your terminal tractors can shunt trailers in and out of the docks.

According to a report by Transport Topics, third quarter 2017 driver wages rose 1.6% over last year, with pay hikes across the board:

– Dry van index up 2.5%

– Flatbed up 1.4%

– Truckload pay up 4 to 7 cents in the stronger markets

– Signing bonuses up to $14,000

Experts point to low unemployment, high GDP, and the likelihood of driver numbers holding steady as indicators that the transportation industry should expect to increase driver pay rates in 2018.

Boost Efficiency with TrailerCaddy Terminal Tractors

DJ Products developed the TrailerCaddy Electric Yard Dog to make it safer, easier, and more efficient to shift and relocate trailers at docks and warehouse terminals. Making things even better is the fact that any dock worker can operate the tractor; no CDL is required.

TrailerCaddy terminal tractors move tank, OTR, and semi trailers weighing up to 100,000 pounds using a long-life 48-volt battery. It’s a small machine that any yard spotter can use to precisely maneuver trailers wherever they need to go.

Let our automated tractors do the heavy lifting with pinpoint control. Warehouses can expect lower maintenance costs, fewer injuries, and maximized efficiency to keep transportation costs down even in a competitive job market.

Contact DJ Products to find out more about TrailerCaddy shunt yard trucks.

DOT Add Opioids to List of Drugs Drivers to Be Tested For January 1

Drivers Are Now Being Tested for Opioids
Drivers Are Now Being Tested for Opioids

With the increase in opioid abuse over the past several years, the Department of Transportation will be requiring truck drivers to be tested for them soon. This testing is being done to help ensure that truck drivers are able to safely operate their vehicles. It’s also being implemented as part of a nationwide effort to address opioid abuse.

New Drug Testing Rules

Starting on January 1st, truck drivers will be tested for four different kinds of opioids as part of routine testing. These include hydromorphone, hydrocodone, oxycodone and oxymorphone, which are all semi-synthetic opioids that are used as prescription painkillers.

The DOT will be adding this new testing panel to routine urine testing for those who operate commercial vehicles. Whether driving on the road or operating a semi trailer mover, it’s important for those in the industry to stay safe and not put others at risk on the job.

Support and Opposition to the New Rules

These new rules have been met with both strong support and opposition. Supporters are in favor of these new rules in order to reduce safety risks associated with truck driving and opioid abuse. They also believe that the new rules are necessary under the Department of Health and Human Services guidelines, which determine the types of drugs that federal agencies can test. Those who oppose the new rules cite concern that truck drivers who are taking prescription pain medication under their doctor’s orders could be unfairly punished.

If you need a reliable semi trailer mover for your business, contact DJ Products to learn more. We offer a wide selection of products to help keep your employees safe on the job. These products lower the risk of injuries and save you time, money and manpower.