Coffee—many people wouldn’t want to start their day without it. Coffee is such a vital part of the day that we can’t get our morning started until that first cup is in the system. While coffee isn’t the only vehicle for getting caffeine into the body, it is the most widely consumed. So, though there are energy drinks, sodas, and teas that can deliver quite a punch of caffeine, we’re going to mostly talk about coffee here. Read More
Following a truck closely to increase fuel efficiency is a dangerous practice. We look into the Mythbusters episode on drafting and the clear decision to choose safety over economy. Read More
We have entered the time of year in the Midwest when icy roads and parking lots can sneak right up on a driver. As experienced drivers know, asphalt can freeze fast in the right conditions. It’s time for that seasonal reminder about not only driving on icy roads but walking on icy parking lots and loading docks too. Read More
Driving for hours every workday or night requires the majority of an NTB driver’s attention. That being said, it can make the time seem to go faster if there is something to listen to in the background. Podcasts and audiobooks can be interesting, funny, informative, and entertaining. Read More
It’s important to think of feeding our bodies in a similar way to how we approach engine care. Immune health is currently at top of mind for many and we have some thoughts on maintaining the body to be healthy while on the road to start the new year right. Read More
It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving was last week and we are now deep into the Christmas season. With slowdowns in residential package deliveries this year, why not get started on your holiday shopping now? At NTB, we have an inkling of what drivers like to have in their cabs, so thought we’d offer some suggestions for some awesome gift-giving. Read More
Most NTB drivers have a goal of over 3,000 miles per week or 100,000 miles in a year because it’s a well-known fact that if your truck is sitting idle, you aren’t making money. Waiting for a load to be ready, a route from dispatch to be assigned or a traffic backup to clear can seem like wasted time when you get paid by the miles driven. However, hurrying to make up for lost time won’t necessarily have the intended result. At NTB, our message is to get there safely while getting as many miles in as possible. Read More
NTB Trucking has a new initiative starting in Lansing, Michigan—shared truck full-time positions. NTB has purchased new day cab tractors which will run as 12 on/12 off operations—two drivers per truck. These assignments, available immediately, will be 12-hour shifts with hometime every day. As is NTB’s guarantee for all drivers, these positions are five consecutive days followed by the same two days off every week. Read More
It happens twice every year—the switch from standard time to daylight saving time in the spring and back again come autumn. Add to that the decrease in daylight hours and driving between time zones and it can all be pretty disruptive to sleep patterns and mood. It can even be a bit confusing when it comes to logging time. Read More
With the move from paper logging to electronic logging devices (ELDs), recording driver data has changed a lot over the years. With the recent advent of ELDs, logging hours of service has been made much easier and more accurate. Read More
It goes without saying that avoiding a tire blowout with daily inspections and good maintenance is the best way to deal with potential problems before they happen. NTB Trucking wants our drivers and new recruits to have some good tools in their belts, including knowledge about dealing with the unexpected. Read More
Many NTB drivers prefer a neat truck cab with few items inside. Comforts might include fresh bedding every week, an extra pair of socks in case of rain, and a good book to read before nodding off during a sleep break. We have a few suggestions that can make a truck cab, which acts as a driver’s office and home, a bit more comfortable and homey. Read More
It’s starting to feel like fall in the Midwest and with that comes the last pushes by road crews to complete work before the snow falls, shorter daylight hours, and a wind-down of mind and body in preparation for winter. How does the coming of fall and winter affect NTB drivers? What are some good methods to ease into fall? Read More
So, you’re thinking about getting your CDL-A and starting a career in truck driving? It sounds great – the open road, new sights, and cities, the independence you’ll feel as you drive. While all of these benefits are part of it, there are some things you should consider to make sure you are a good candidate for a life on the road. Read More
Issues with braking are obviously a big deal. This year’s focus during Brake Safety Week will be on hoses and tubes. Read More