As a driver, you know that time is money — quite literally. The faster you can deliver loads the better, but you also need to meet the requirements of your employer and the law.
How can you save time on your loads without skirting the lines of ethical and safe driving? It is possible, and we have some tips. Let’s get started so you can get back on the road ASAP!
Spend Time Now to Save Time Later
So, our first tip is about investing time, but I promise it pays off. Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax.”
Why waste four hours sharpening the ax when you could just get on with it? Because ultimately having the right tools in excellent condition reduces the amount of time and effort it takes to do your work.
As a driver, that means it pays to spend time and money making sure your rig is in excellent shape, that your electronics are in good working order, that you have all the paperwork you need, you’ve planned your resting stops, and that you haven’t overlooked any requirements.
It may seem counterintuitive, but spending an extra hour before you leave can save you five hours on the other end.
Know What to Expect at the Warehouse
Nothing is more frustrating than doing everything right and then having your time wasted because you didn’t know which entrance the shipper wanted you to use or that a road was closed.
Don’t let unexpected obstacles get in the way of your delivery and turnaround. Instead, use an app like Dock411 so you know what to expect. We have details on thousands of facilities, from where the bathrooms are to which warehouse is the drop point. You can also see reviews from other drivers and get tips from them.
Nothing saves time like knowing what to expect during delivery. Dock411 makes that easy.
Take Advantage of Split Sleeper Berth Rules
You need to take 10 hour breaks to reset your clocks, but they don’t have to be consecutive. You can split the time into two periods as long as both are at least two hours.
So, do you expect an unloading layover of at least two hours? Take advantage of it by splitting your sleeper berth time. You can take a shorter break before delivery and then take at least two hours of off-duty time during the unload.
If you have to be idle, it may as well count for something!
Get Your Loads Delivered Quickly
These tips will help you deliver your loads more efficiently and save time on the road. If you’re tired of unwelcome surprises at facilities, check out Dock411 today.
Our app provides truck drivers with detailed information about facilities so you can plan their trips more efficiently and avoid costly delays. You’ll be able to spend less time waiting around and more time on the road making money!
