10 Things I've Learned In 4 Years Of Trucking...

Very good observations - well put.

Running doubles , I can especially relate to #3. Since it's extremely slow and tedious to back them up, if I'm ever in a situation where I don't know the layout, I'll get out first to make sure I don't get trapped. Usually I'm going somewhere that I know, but this situation sometimes comes up for me at truck stops.

And yes, for all new readers and prospective drivers here, GPS UNITS CANNOT BE TRUSTED 100%. I've never relied on a GPS blindly, I learned from other drivers' mistakes, but I've seen my Rand at times try and tell me to do really dumb things. This usually happens in or near a major metropolis, like NYC. Thankfully, I've always had the route mapped out ahead of time, or already knew the way. I'll leave my GPS set up since it's easy to get to my digital maps that way, but I really don't need the navigation features anymore. I carry a paper atlas, but the Rand unit has all the maps too, and they're easier to scroll through by using your fingers - at least on the newest Rand unit.

6 String Rhythm:

Stupid question from a newbie. Is the Rand an app or a book? Thanks.

Karen

Stupid question from a newbie. Is the Rand an app or a book? Thanks.

Karen

Rand McNally publishes a map book, and sells a stand alone GPS and logging units, and they even have an Android app. The app connects to the logging device, from their website:

The HD 100 app works with the HD 100, Rand McNally's electronic logging device. The HD 100 plugs into the truck's diagnostics port and connects Hours of Service information wirelessly to the HD 100 app. HOS logs are available on the HD 100 app and via the Rand McNally Connect web portal.

Stupid question from a newbie. Is the Rand an app or a book? Thanks.

Karen

Rand McNally publishes a map book, and sells a stand alone GPS and logging units, and they even have an Android app. The app connects to the logging device, from their website:

The HD 100 app works with the HD 100, Rand McNally's electronic logging device. The HD 100 plugs into the truck's diagnostics port and connects Hours of Service information wirelessly to the HD 100 app. HOS logs are available on the HD 100 app and via the Rand McNally Connect web portal.

Michael:

Thanks!!! That definitely has my name written all over it. I need all the help I can get lol.

Karen

The Rand McNally HD 100 is actually an e-logging device. They make several models of GPS units designed specifically for Truck Drivers. Also, they make a Trucker specific Motor Carriers Road Atlas. Both are designed to avoid low bridges, roads not designed for trucks, low weight limit bridges etc. Google either one and you will see your options.

Ahmalia,

It is so good to see you back here at TT. I was thinking it had been such a long time since I had seen you post anything.

I also want to thank you for such a great post. Very informative.

Ernie

Very good observations - well put.

Running doubles , I can especially relate to #3. Since it's extremely slow and tedious to back them up, if I'm ever in a situation where I don't know the layout, I'll get out first to make sure I don't get trapped. Usually I'm going somewhere that I know, but this situation sometimes comes up for me at truck stops.

And yes, for all new readers and prospective drivers here, GPS UNITS CANNOT BE TRUSTED 100%. I've never relied on a GPS blindly, I learned from other drivers' mistakes, but I've seen my Rand at times try and tell me to do really dumb things. This usually happens in or near a major metropolis, like NYC. Thankfully, I've always had the route mapped out ahead of time, or already knew the way. I'll leave my GPS set up since it's easy to get to my digital maps that way, but I really don't need the navigation features anymore. I carry a paper atlas, but the Rand unit has all the maps too, and they're easier to scroll through by using your fingers - at least on the newest Rand unit.

6 String Rhythm:

Stupid question from a newbie. Is the Rand an app or a book? Thanks.

Karen

Hi Karen.

I was referring to my Rand GPS unit. It's the newest version, cannot recall the model number. I use it for the maps, not so much as a GPS.

The Rand McNally HD 100 is actually an e-logging device. They make several models of GPS units designed specifically for Truck Drivers. Also, they make a Trucker specific Motor Carriers Road Atlas. Both are designed to avoid low bridges, roads not designed for trucks, low weight limit bridges etc. Google either one and you will see your options.

Thank you so much for this! I have been wondering about routes for truckers. I know in some places in the northeast there are signs for truckers to take but not sure how in depth the signs go for instance if they direct you all the way back around or if you have to find your own way once you get off the main road. Good to know there are trucker specific route devices and atlas'. Another trucker mentioned their first few solo loads in NYC and ended up in the Bronx. I have done that myself in a rental. I could not imagine doing that in a tractor trailer! Those streets are ridiculous! The trucker also mentioned a parkway him and another rookie were stuck on (same day he got stuck in the Bronx) that roadside crews had to clear traffic so they could cross an icy field to get onto their correct road. Sounds like a fun but stressful adrenaline rush! :)

Stupid question from a newbie. Is the Rand an app or a book? Thanks.

Karen

Rand McNally publishes a map book, and sells a stand alone GPS and logging units, and they even have an Android app. The app connects to the logging device, from their website:

The HD 100 app works with the HD 100, Rand McNally's electronic logging device. The HD 100 plugs into the truck's diagnostics port and connects Hours of Service information wirelessly to the HD 100 app. HOS logs are available on the HD 100 app and via the Rand McNally Connect web portal.

Michael:

Thanks!!! That definitely has my name written all over it. I need all the help I can get lol.

Believe me when I say that if you are going to drive for Roehl you will need an atlas and your own GPS unit. I drove for them and left last May and I doubt they have changed their navigation system since I left. Theirs will get you close to where you are going to but then you have to rely on what they call close up directions which is basically info from other drivers who have been there which can be hit or miss.I don't think they want you to have your own GPS but I know most of the drivers do. Best of luck to you.

Resurrected this old topic, with lots of good advice and observations.

When in doubt, walk it,...besides we need the exercise!

Also remember: Watch your wagon. Right, G-Town? Those words I teach to all my students now.