June 20, 2004
"Here's how I cut my idling time. Most drivers are unaware that they can burn approximately $6,000 or more worth of fuel during a year. Idling their trucks, truck drivers attempt to keep warm or cool through the various seasons; not to mention the costly repairs associated with excessive idling.

"During the cooler months I carry a couple extra blankets and a comforter for extra warmth. I test my batteries in the fall and replace as needed. Most batteries are only good for 2 years. Of course, one hard freeze can drop a battery output to nothing. If that happens, a driver had better hope there's someone around with jumper cables or maybe carry their own.

"During the summer, I start my driving day later in morning then in the cooler months. This will maximize my sleeping time during the coolest periods of the day, beginning in the later part of the evening all the way though the earlier to mid morning hours. I wake up before the heat of the day begins to set in although I may have to driver later into the evening hours to allow the residual heat of the day to dissipate. I mostly stay out of truck stops because of the heat caused by other trucks idling. Cites are more generally warmer then parking areas out on the interstates. Also higher elevations cool off sooner then the lower valleys.

"I hope that these suggestions may help some drivers. Please fell free to forward any suggestions of what you may be doing to cut your costs in your operation."


Fred is an OTR driver who has 24 years experience hauling a multitude of freight including dry van and refer. He has trucked in all 48 States as well as every province in Canada. Trucking as both a company driver and an owner operator, Fred brings to the GTA the kind of success story many drivers would like to experience including the last 15 years trucking with his own rig.
If you have a question for Fred just forward it to him through the contact page on the website.

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