In years past, most trucks on the roads had manual transmissions. The ability to shift gears was seen as a masculine trait, and only pansies relied on an automatic transmission. In 2020, things look a lot different (in more ways than one). For the trucking industry, our lives have been turned upside down with the stress of COVID-19. Worrying about whether an automatic transmission makes you less of a trucker should sound ridiculous – but the truth is, many truckers still wonder about it.

If we’re being honest, most people consider shifting gears to be a real skill only because they have such a hard time getting the hang of it. Many truckers see conquering the ability to drive a shift stick as an accomplishment, but truly it isn’t. Just because something is difficult to master or seems “cool” does not qualify it as a skill that you need. If you learned to drive your rig as an automatic, stick with an automatic. You are not missing out on anything in regard to manual versus automatic.

“But what about having the automatic restriction on my CDL,” you ask? Don’t be overly concerned about it. It truly isn’t that important in today’s age. Almost everywhere, trucking companies are changing their fleets to auto-shift transmissions. In fact, trucking companies that want manual transmissions have to put in special requests because automatic transmissions are considered the new normal. With the advent of the modern auto-shift transmission, trucking companies have found a way to shave off a little of their operating expenses. Remember, trucking is a commodities business. Every bit of money savings decision can mean more money in your pocket.

Let the thrill of the road and driving a huge truck be where you get your kicks. Driving a rig with an automatic transmission does not make you any less of a trucker. Get out there, put miles on your tires, and enjoy the ride.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Ask any old-timer who’s been on the road for a few years, and you’ll learn that being a truck driver is one of the best jobs out there. Unfortunately, some rookie truck driver mistakes can sabotage your career.

• Thinking it will be easy. People go into trucking as a profession for many reasons. However, assuming that trucking will be an easy way to earn a living is not a good reason. The first year, especially, is rough. CDL training is hard, and many people back out of trucking before they make it through the year. It’s helpful to remember that once you survive CDL training, all you have learned and the experience you’ve garnered will benefit you in your career.
• Becoming arrogant. It is great to have confidence, but arrogance can get you into trouble. Most accidents and issues occur from drivers who become cocky and make mistakes. Everyone will mess up, but when overconfidence has you doing things you shouldn’t be doing, your reputation and salary will suffer.
• Trying to be a perfectionist. Beating yourself up over stupid rookie mistakes will not help you succeed. Go ahead and accept that you will lock yourself out of your truck, get lost, arrive late, have a minor accident, and maybe even drop a trailer on the ground. It will be okay. Learn from your mistake and move on. Don’t let not being “perfect” keep you from driving. You’re in great company when you mess up because we all do it.
• Learn to compromise. Now, this doesn’t mean that you compromise your morals when you’re out on the road. If you’ve got a wife and kids at home, you stay faithful and refuse to compromise. But, you’ll often find that reality differs from your expectations. Learn to be flexible and to compromise on issues that aren’t that big of a deal. Trucking will leave you exhausted, but by learning the tricks of the trade, you will become focused.

A career in trucking isn’t easy, but it can be worth it. Take every opportunity to learn. While you’re still in your rookie season, be a good student. When you start hitting the road and your truck needs work, ask the mechanic lots of questions. Listen to ridiculous situations that other truckers get themselves into, and then make a commitment not to be “that driver.”

Remember, this is your career. It’s up to you to make it successful.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Summer is officially underway, and there will be more traffic on the roadways. Also, with the lifting of many COVID-19 restrictions, more and more people are finding themselves out and about simply because they have the freedom to do so. With more people on the road, and with the summer season underway, there are more safety issues to be aware of as you take to the highways.

Here are some helpful summer driving tips:

1. Wear your sunscreen. As you sit in the driver’s seat of your rig, you are constantly exposed to morning, daytime, and evening sun beating through your windows and windshield. Many people mistakenly believe that glass protects them from sun damage, but that is NOT the case. If you’ve ever noticed more freckles or sunspots on the left side of your body than your right side, it is because your left side is taking a beating from the sun. Wearing sunscreen, long sleeves, and a sun hat can help protect your skin from sun damage.
2. Keep hydrated. As the sun beats through the glass in your driving cabin, it will deplete your hydration levels. It is crucial that you always have water available to drink. Everyone should aim to drink eight, 8-oz bottles of water a day. It is also important to remember that soft drinks can deplete your hydration levels – water is always your best choice.
3. Watch out for crowded roads. As mentioned above, people travel more during the summer, especially on holiday weekends. As people travel, they are more likely to be on roads that they are unfamiliar with, and they tend to be more erratic in their driving. Keep a safe distance between other drivers, always being aware of those around you.
4. Keep your rig properly maintained. With crowded roads, you will often find that you use your brakes more. With all of the rainfall that we have seen in Georgia this year, you are probably using your windshield wipers more than ever in years past. You need to ensure that you are maintaining your tires, brakes, wipers, and other components of your truck to ensure that you are safe on the roads.

If you are looking for an affordable, short-term commercial truck lease, we invite you to visit our facility and to test drive our trucks or to call us at 678-212-1302 to speak with one of our representatives.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Roadside inspections are inevitable for truckers because they are considered a critical part of the trucking industry. The main goal of “Roadchecks” is to ensure that truck drivers are compliant with the laws and are operating safely on the road. Preparing now for the upcoming roadcheck of 2020 will help you be ready for the possibility of being stopped and inspected. It is crucial that you understand that failing a roadcheck will result in a loss of money. You will have to take time off of the road to address the issues brought up from your failed roadcheck, and this can be a massive setback to you and your company. Therefore, take the time now to prepare.

The majority of things that are checked fall under Level 1 Inspections. By following these tips, you can avoid violations when you are stopped for Roadcheck 2020:

• All sides of tractor and trailer
• Lights
• Wheels, tires (including tread depth and tire pressure), rims, and hubs
• Brakes
• Major safety components
• Proper load securement
• Proper paperwork
  
  
  • Identification
  • Drivers License/CDL
  • Medical Examiners Certificate
  • Vehicle Inspection Certificate
  • Record of Duty Status
  • Periodic Inspection Reports
  • Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate
  • Shipping Papers
• Hours of Service
• Electronic Logging Devices (make sure your device is functioning correctly)

You will learn whether or not you pass or fail roadcheck 2020 after it is complete. Passing means that no critical violations were found, and you will receive a CVSA decal to display on your vehicle to indicate that your vehicle passed. Failing means that critical violations were found, and your vehicle will be placed as “out of service.” You will not be able to operate your truck until the vehicle or driver violations are corrected.

Benjamin Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Taking the time now to prepare for an inevitable roadcheck in 2020 is the best way to ensure that you and your vehicle stay on the road.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

President Donald Trump has thanked American Truckers for their consistent and unwavering dedication to get needed supplies to businesses and consumers all across the Nation. “Thank God for truckers!” President Trump said on the South Lawn of the White House for an event honoring America’s truckers for their heroism, patriotism, and service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

While millions of Americans have been under shelter-in-place orders, truckers have had to keep on trucking. Peggy Dorf, an analyst with the freight marketplace DAT Solutions, wrote that “COVID-19 is causing the mother of all supply chain disruptions.” Emergency medical supplies like masks, soap, and ventilators need to be transported from manufacturers to medical centers. The raw materials required to produce those things need to get to factories. Grocery shelves need to be stocked, and restocked quickly, as Americans have faced a shortage in food and toilet paper across the country.

Truckers have kept American running! They are the unsung heroes who are getting all the toilet paper and food that Americans need to shelter-in-place. Many truckers are facing times of hardship on the road, but they have chosen to keep on for America’s best interest.

Many truckers rely on truck stops to get hot meals, showers, and camaraderie during their long hauls. Yet, right now, quarantine measures are preventing all of these. Many generous businesses and people have expressed their appreciation for the job that truckers are doing by supplying free meals, gift cards, and handing out thank you notes. Americans now realize that truckers are essential workers. Not just “essential” because of a global pandemic – but essential because of the services that they provide to Americans day in and day out.

Tucker Carlson paid tribute to America’s truckers on his primetime national TV program:

“America has only avoided collapse – not an exaggeration – because of one group: millions of truck drivers who are continuing to keep this economic engine running and its stores full.”

Here at Bulldog Truck Sales, we couldn’t agree more. Thank you, Truckers! God bless America!

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Buying or leasing a truck is a big step in your career. At Bulldog Truck Sales, we know how important it is for drivers to feel comfortable and “at home” in their truck when they are on the road for hours on end. Many drivers want to make sure that their truck is a personal reflection of who they are. Bulldog Truck Sales will help you get on the road safely, with all our trucks being DOT ready. Our one-year warranty that is included within the price of your truck will give you the peace of mind you need for your purchase. We offer different styles and colors to help you feel confident in your ride. Yet, after you make your purchase or lease, you may always want to personalize your truck to suit your style.

There are many ways to personalize your truck. If you lease your truck, you will need to customize your ride with non-permanent options; if you own your truck, your options are wide open. Here are some ways you can personalize your truck so that it reflects you:

Personalized accessories:

• Seat covers
• Steering wheels
• Floor mats
• Personalized bedding for your sleeper
• Navigation systems (or navigation mounts for leased trucks)
• Fuzzy dice

Upgraded personalization options:

• Custom wheel flaps
• Removable decals or window clings

Finding your truck does not have to be a long, hard search. At Bulldog Truck Sales, we can make the search easy. We have high quality, late model commercial trucks at affordable prices. We offer attractive terms with creative financing and lease programs available. Come in today to find the truck that is right for you.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

When it comes to being a truck driver, this occupation is more of a lifestyle than a job. Before even considering becoming a trucker, it will be important to understand the realities of the lifestyle and to discuss them with loved ones. Here’s what you need to know:

• You will be on the road upward of 300 days per year. This requirement will significantly limit the time you spend at home, and it will impact the relationships in your life. At the time you begin, you may only be able to return home once every three weeks.
• Once you start, it may be two years before you move into a regional driving position that allows you to return home weekly.
• You may be expected to work 70 hours over an eight-day period.
• Days can begin really early or can go very late. Many drivers like to drive with the light, while others prefer driving through the night to avoid heavy road traffic.
• Most drivers are paid by miles driven.
• Many truckers do not know what they will be paid until the end of the year.
• In the first year, most truck drivers estimate $35,000 in income, and $45,000 – $55,000 after that.
• Your salary can increase after a few years on the job if you become a trainer, or if you are willing to haul oversize freight or hazardous materials.
• Most drivers are expected to cover 125,000 miles per annum. That breaks down to around 2,500 miles per week or 500 miles per day. You must think about all those hours on the road before committing to a trucker’s life.
• There is an excellent opportunity to gain a unique view of the United States.

A trucker’s lifestyle is not for everyone, but it is for some. If you are interested in leasing a truck, contact Bulldog Truck Sales in Atlanta today.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Your truck requires three different types of tires. It is essential that you understand the position of your tires and how they handle to drive safely and perform better.

Steer Tires

Steer tires are the front two tires of your semi-truck. These are the most important tires on your truck because they are designed for the steer axle. Generally known as all-position tires, they perform well on drive and trailer axles. Steer tires influence handling, take a lot of scrubbing on curbs, and help to ensure a smooth ride. Tires in this position tend to wear out quickly. Since they are a significant factor for fuel economy, it is vital to have a premium steer tire. You want steer tires that will perform in all conditions for safety, comfort, and fuel economy.

Drive Tires

Sitting at the rear truck tractors on the drive or torque axles, drive tires are the most vital tire for good traction. Drive tires are located where the truck meets the trailer. These are the tires that are turned to make the vehicle move. These tires determine the truck’s grip on the road, so high traction tires are a must throughout the year to handle all types of weather.

Trailer Tires

These tires are specifically designed to withstand heavy loads and tough breaking. There are two common types of semi-truck trailer tires: bias ply and radial ply. Radial trailer tires have shorter cords that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, providing more flex and ground contact, which is good for traction, stability, and treadwear. The cords on bias ply trailer tires run at a 32-degree angle from the direction of travel and have stiffer sidewalls and shoulders.

The most important thing to remember is that your tires will wear down. The thinner the tread, the harder it is to stop. Make it a priority to check your tires regularly to inspect the tread.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Many people make New Year’s resolutions, goals, or choose a word for the year. Perhaps your goal for 2020 is to make a more substantial profit in your trucking career, and you’ve decided to roll into 2020 with a new ride. Here at Bulldog Truck Sales in Atlanta, Georgia, we are here to serve you with affordable truck leasing programs to get you on the road safely and in style.

Bulldog Truck Sales offers high quality semi-trucks for lease at affordable prices with attractive terms. Many people make the decision to get out of debt and stay out of debt when a new year comes around. It is truly an ideal goal to set. That is why Bulldog Truck Sales has a truck leasing program that is designed for those independent owner-operators who have experienced credit issues in the past. We specialize in providing affordable short-term leases to independent contractors with blemished credit. Our goal is to work with you to help you succeed as an independent owner-operator.

Our facility in Atlanta carries a large selection of late-model inventory. We have attractive terms to help you choose a new rig at a price that you can afford. All of our trucks are DOT ready and come with a one-year engine warranty that is included in the price. We want you to be successful, and we want to help you get into a truck that will allow you to earn money on the road. If you would like to visit our facility and schedule a test drive, call us at 678.212.1302 to speak with one of our representatives. You can complete a secure online application before you come if you would like to be considered for credit with Bulldog Truck Sales. We look forward to serving you and helping you get into a new rig for this new year.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Close to 100 million motorists are expected to travel 50 miles or more during the upcoming holidays. Family members who do not live close to one another enjoy gathering together during the holidays, and travel by motor vehicle is much cheaper than flying. With road congestion at its peak during the holiday season, the roads are often trickier to drive for truckers. Below are tips on how to navigate through holiday traffic and how to share the road with millions of others.

• Prepare your truck for long-distance travel. It is important to remember that you need extra precautions during high traffic. If your truck is sitting idle for hours in traffic, your engine can take a beating. Make sure to check your fluids, your radiator, your cooling system, and your wipers before heading out on the road. Simple maintenance can prevent many problems.
• Plan ahead. Before you hit the road, know your game plan. Know where you are going and how long travel time is expected. With extra vehicles on the road, it will be essential to know when your exit is coming up so you can prepare to merge. Unexpected lane changes cause thousands of accidents each year.
• Be aware of changes in the weather. Winter weather can wreak havoc on the highways. As weather conditions change – many of which change quickly – it will be vital to watch for ice, snow, and standing water. It is also important for truckers to take wind conditions into consideration.
• Slow down. With millions of more drivers on the roads, it is a good idea to simply slow down. Speeding becomes even more dangerous on crowded roads. Allow plenty of space cushion and reduce your speed.
• Buckle up. Safety belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45%. This is an easy way to increase your safety during holiday traffic.
• Drive respectfully. Yes, there are millions of bad drivers out there, but you do not have to be one of them. Take the high road and give respect to the other drivers around you. Chances are, your kindness will be paid forward.

The holidays are often a challenge to navigate with big trucks. There is nothing better than safe driving practices coupled with patience when you are behind the wheel.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales