National Freight Carriers

Posts Tagged ‘National freight carriers’

Things Are Heating Up

By Gwyne Presser

It’s Hot. Miserably hot. I know it’s summer in Colorado and it sometimes gets hot, but it usually isn’t 95+ degrees in June. If it is this hot now what is July and August going to be like? After walking outside to my car a few minutes ago I seriously considered moving to Alaska, but I love Colorado so I thought I would look up some ideas for how to survive this scorching heat. Here are some of my top picks:

Wardrobe selection is key. Wear light weight, light-colored loose-fitting clothing. Verses what I chose to wear today black pants and a black long sleeved shirt.

Put the Mountain Dew Down!! Don’t drink liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar – these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. If you sweat allot on a hot day, sports drinks are preferred over water because they will replenish sodium. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Drink more fluids regardless of your activity level. Don’t rely upon thirst as an indicator of your need for water; it’s not reliable in very high heat.

Check with your doctor if you have health problems that require you to limit fluid intake or you’re taking diuretics - ask him/her how much you should drink while the weather is hot. I am an HR Manager I had to include a disclaimer of some kind.

Mist Away. Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray to your face after being outdoors.

Spice Things Up. Eating spicy foods like hot peppers, fresh ginger and black pepper will help lower your body temperature through sweating. Hmmm, will have to try this and report back.

Hat Hair. You lose a major portion of body heat through your head, which is bad in winter but good in summer. So on hot days, don’t cover your noggin tightly with a hat.

Qualcomm Issues Helpful Tips

By Kelly Gallegos

Tip 1

If you unit is locked up and you have the manual keyboard the unit may sometimes be unlocked by pressing and holding the two shift keys down for one to two minutes. If this does not work we may need to send a soft reboot to your unit.

Tip 2

If your logs are not updating after they have been edited you can log off and then log back on this will force the qualcomm to update.

Tip 3

If you are having problems sending your macro 18 and 19 review the information that is entered into the macro. The macro will not give you a send button until you have filled out all of the information correctly. It can be something as simple as an invalid trailer number or no phone number entered into the macro.

GPS Routing & Accidents

By David Lemke

Some professional drivers have relied on non-trucking specific GPS units to route them. In following the advice of the device, they have unwittingly set themselves up for failure. They may think, “But my GPS told me to go this way!” and proceed on without consulting their atlas, taking heed of warning signs or using common sense.

Many states are cracking down on truckers who rely on satellite devices to direct them onto prohibited routes and end up crashing into overpasses that are too low for their rigs. Or they find themselves on roadways unsuitable for big rigs and they get caught in dead ends where they have to back out or try and turn around. That’s when accidents occur!

Don’t get caught by using a GPS device. Make sure you check your atlas, pay attention to all road signage and most important slow down and ensure there is enough clearance.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221

Don’t Drive Angry…

By Brandon Leonard

On the way home the other day I saw a car cut off an 18 wheeler (Couldn’t see the company). I was surprised to see that the 18 wheeler backed off and didn’t show that he was aggravated at all.

There are so many times that I see a car cut a big rig off and then the big rig will ride the cars bumper to try to intimidate them. This is very dangerous and can cause a very serious accident.

I just wanted to post saying when you are out there on the road, be courteous and if someone cuts you off just back off to a safe following distance and shake your head. BE SAFE OUT THERE!!!!!

Taking Ownership, Starting at Your DESK

By Douglas Webberley

On time is everything. It is our livelihood, it is our pay check, it is your job. The owners can cry, beg, and yes even yell, but it is your job to deliver on time and set appt’s that can be delivered on time. That is what you and I were hired on for. All the other stuff is for fun. Tthe driving part is fun. Talking to customer is fun, and so on.

If you are late it then become your attitude and your professionalism in working through this dilemma. If a planner has put in a wrong ETA or a CSR has put in a wrong delivery date and time, it is your job to be the point person on this and take the hit not the driver.

Bottom line, we all like our pay check and we all need a career and it doesn’t get any better than what we have. So make it the best you can and deliver and schedule for on time on time on time….. And yes it is sales job to sell power alleys that can give you on time and better CSA scores.

A New #1 Cause Of Distracted Drivers

By David Lemke

In the past, there was a common belief that the use of mobile phones was the top reason for distracted driving during truck driving jobs. A recent report by the SmartDrive Distracted Driving Index (SDDI) revealed that for 2010, it came second to a new top reason for possible cause of road accidents or crashes. The new number one is having an object in your hand while driving.

The SDDI used video cameras to record 34,466 truck drivers as they worked. The data showed that operating an mp3 player or even looking into some paperwork are high-risk distractions. Other causes for increased chances of road accidents are listed as follows:

44.5% Object in hand (PDAs, mp3 players, paperwork)

13.4% Talking on a handheld mobile phone

12.7% Beverage

10.1% Food

9.9% Smoking

9.1% Operating a handheld device

5.2% Talking/listening on a hands free mobile phone

1% Map, Manifest or Navigation

0.6% Grooming/Personal hygiene

When behind the wheel, avoid all issues that may lead to a loss of road concentration! Drive Safe.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221

ATTA BOY Roy

Written by Howard Rodarte

During a recent trip to the shop, Roy Long, driver in truck 2002, took advantage of an opportunity to show his pride in his truck. His truck was in the shop for some brake work. The wheels were off so Roy grabbed his pilish and rags and polished his wheels. He says its a lot easier to polish when they aren’t mounted.

Way to go Roy! I thanked him for taking care of his equipment, and asked him to come see me next week. I want to give him a Navajo shirt for the effort.

Pride of the Tribe.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221

Get the Low Down from Breakdowns

Written by George Ryan

DAILY VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORTS (DVIR’s)

It has been several months since Navajo has changed from reporting the requisite Pre and Post Trip Inspections (PTI’s) using Macro 50 and 9’s to reporting via DVIR’s (Macro 18/19). Since implementation we in the Road Services Department (RSC) – commonly called Breakdowns – have seen a substantial drop in the quantity of defects and malfunctions being reported on the road, along with fewer Navajo trucks being held “Out of Service” at Ports of Entry and DOT scales. There also has been a notable decrease in late deliveries due to mechanical malfunctions. And most notably there have been substantially fewer tires blown or replaced on the road since the DVIR was introduced. We attribute those things to an increased driver awareness leading to the overall improved mechanical condition of Navajo equipment.

However, as is the case with all new systems when first introduced, proper documentation and reporting has been a significant problem. Here are a few of the more common reporting problems and errors noted since January:

Multiple DOT entries for a single defect. A defect only needs to be reported to Road Services and the DOT once. Repeated reporting only clogs the system with unnecessary documents and it then becomes cumbersome to maintain.
- After the initial reporting of a valid DOT out-of-service problem the “defect” block need not be checked.
- However the defect should still be noted in the comments section.
Submission of a Macro 18/19 to communicate non-DOT defects or follow-up conversations with RSC.
- Non DOT defects should be reported using a Macro 22.
- Follow-up conversations with the RSC should be via a “reply” or “Freeform”.
Submission of a macro 18/19 with multiple defects noted per DVIR.
- If there are multiple DOT reportable defects found on a Daily Vehicle Inspection then there must be multiple Macros submitted.
- Only one defect per DVIR.
Failure to annotate completion of repairs.
- When the defect is not immediately repaired:
  - RSC complete a Macro detailing the repair order number, the repair facility, and the mechanics name. This Macro is then sent to the truck.
  - The driver must then verify the repair with “yes” or “no” and then “enter”.
- When the defect is immediately repaired:
  - The driver completes a Macro 52 (tractor) or 53 (trailer).
  - For example, when a TA completes the repair on a trailer clearance light the driver can immediately certify that repair utilizing a Macro 53.

In the event there are questions or comments, please forward them to the Road Services Department at otrmaint@navajo.com or 800-525-1969 extension 0792.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221

2012 – Colorado Truck Driving Championship (TDC) Competition June 2th, 2012

Written by David Lemke

Navajo in the Rockies

Last year Bob Edwards won 1^st place for 5 axle SB in the state championships. There was only a few of Navajo employees there to support our company drivers who were competing.For any Denver based management or employees or those who may be in town, please mark your calendar and attend this year’s event and support our competing drivers! We will have a tent, tables and chairs and drinks/food available.

Call or stop by and see Navajo Safety Department to get signed up!!! Bring everyone!!!

This year’s Colorado TDC will be held on June 2th at the

Adams County Fairgrounds.
9755 Henderson Road
Brighton, CO

Colorado Truck Driving Championships Rules and Procedures

The Truck Driving Championship Tests

Written Examination: Lasting one hour, this exam is valued at 80 points and consists of 40 questions. The questions are based on material contained in the “2012 Facts for Drivers” handbook, provided to the driver.

Pre-Trip Inspection: Drivers are required to find planted defects on a test vehicle within a specified time. The Pre-Trip Inspection is worth 100 points. No points are awarded for unplanted defects.

Driving Skills Course: The contestant’s ability to handle a vehicle and judge distance and clearance is tested on a course consisting of any six problems designed to simulate conditions that a driver encounters in everyday operations. The Driving Skills Test is worth 300 points.

Truck Driving Championship Classes

* 3 axle tractor semitrailer * 5 axle tractor semitrailer, flatbed * twin trailers

* 4 axle tractor semitrailer * 5 axle tractor semitrailer, tanker * straight truck

* 5 axle tractor semitrailer * 5 axle tractor semitrailer, sleeper * step van (non-CDL)

Driver Eligibility:

The contestant must:

(1) Work for a company that is a member of the Colorado Motor Carriers Association

(2) Regularly perform the duties of a professional truck driver (i.e. hostlers, mechanics are not

eligible)

(3) Must have a commercial driver’s license and all necessary endorsements required for the

class of competition (i.e. tanker or doubles – exception: Step vans)

(4) Must have been continuously employed by one employer for the 12 months prior to the state

TDC

(5) Must have an accident-free record of at least 12 months prior to entry in the state

championships

(6) Must meet DOT physical requirements

(7) Must represent the state in which they reside or are occupationally-domiciled

(8) Must not have won the state championship in both the preceding 2 years in the category of competition

For any Denver domiciled drivers that have an interest in representing Navajo Express at the upcoming Truck Driving Championships, Please contact Marlene Settlemire in the safety department. She will verify your eligibility and help you complete the required entrance forms!

THE ENTRY DEADLINE IS Friday, May 18, 2012.

No entry forms will be accepted and no refunds will be made after that date, unless prior

arrangements have been made.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221

We’re the Nations TOP Trucking Company for a REASON

By Don Digby Jr., President, Navajo Express, Inc.

It takes a lot to stay on top in the world of transportation. Dedicated transportation is achieved through outstanding customer relationships, and by hiring and keeping the best drivers in the industry. Navajo Express in Denver, CO is committed to building the nation’s top fleet.

Don Digby Sr. has purchased 100 new Kenworth T-660 trucks, scheduled to begin arriving in May. Adding to Navajo’s already modern fleet, offering no trucks older than 2010. We continue to work hard to keep our fleet up to date for our drivers. At Navajo, drivers are our #1 customer.

In addition to the new trucks, we also have 150 new Utility refrigerated trailers that we are taking delivery on now. It is an exciting time to be on the Navajo Team. Come check us out at www.navajo.com. Or if you’re in the Denver area, come by the office and check us out. If a career in truck driving is the path you’ve chosen, see why the Navajo companies is among America’s best trucking companies.

Look us up at www.navajo.com

: Truck Navajo Express

1-800-525-1969

Stop by and see us at

1400 W. 64th Ave.

Denver, CO 80221