Author: Amped-Marketing

Semi-truck rollover accidents are a serious concern in the trucking industry. These accidents not only pose a risk to the driver, but also to other motorists on the road. When a semi-truck rolls over, it has the potential to do a great deal of damage, even more so than other types of accidents. This is why it’s essential for drivers to understand how they can help avoid roll-overs. This article explores some practical steps that truck drivers can take to ensure safety on the road.

1. Understand The Risks Factors For Rollover Accidents

Rollovers are mainly caused by abrupt maneuvers, excessive speed, unbalanced loads, and poor road conditions. It’s essential to understand the dynamics of your semi-truck and the ways in which these factors can lead to rollover accidents.

2. Ensure Proper Loading

Improper loading of cargo can cause an imbalance that might result in a rollover accident.

To prevent this:

• Know Your Load: Understand the weight and how it’s distributed. Evenly distribute the load and ensure it’s secured to prevent any shifting during transit.
• Perform Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic checks during the trip to ensure that the load hasn’t shifted.

3. Maintain Safe Driving Speeds

Adhering to speed limits is vital, especially while negotiating turns and curves. Trucks are more susceptible to rollovers at high speeds due to their high center of gravity.

• Slow Down on Curves: Reduce your speed well before approaching a curve.
• Avoid Sudden Maneuvers: Abrupt steering can cause a rollover, especially when the truck is moving at a high speed.

4. Adhere to Weather Conditions

Weather conditions play a significant role in rollover accidents. Rain, snow, or icy conditions can make the roads slippery.

• Drive According to Weather: Adjust your driving according to the prevailing weather conditions.
• Use Appropriate Tires: Ensure that your semi-truck is equipped with suitable tires for different weather conditions.

5. Ongoing Training and Education

Continuous training and education about rollover prevention, safe driving practices, and handling techniques can contribute greatly to preventing accidents.

• Participate in Safety Programs: Engage in safety programs offered by your motor carrier.
• Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about the latest safety practices and regulations.

Staying Safe On The Road

Preventing semi-truck rollover accidents is not just the responsibility of the trucking companies but also the individual drivers. By following these best practices, drivers can contribute significantly to road safety, protecting themselves, their cargo, and fellow motorists.

At DSW, we prioritize the safety of our drivers, offering regular training and support to ensure that every trip is a safe one.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our commitment to road safety and how you can become a part of our responsible driving team.

When you’re on the road as much as truckers are, eating out can become both unhealthy and expensive. Truck drivers can combat this by preparing their own meals right in the cab of their semi-truck. In-cab cooking not only saves money but also promotes healthier eating. This guide provides a comprehensive look into in-cab cooking for truckers, offering useful tips and practical solutions for a better on-the-road lifestyle.

Benefits of In-Cab Cooking

Financial Savings

Eating out can add up quickly, and by preparing your own meals, you could save hundreds of dollars a month. That’s money in your pocket!

Healthier Choices

Fast food is convenient, but it’s often loaded with unhealthy fats and sugars. By cooking your own meals, you have control over the ingredients, allowing for healthier choices.

Essential Tools for In-Cab Cooking

Portable Cooking Appliances

Many truckers opt for portable stoves, slow cookers, and microwaves that can plug into the truck’s power source. These are essential for preparing hot meals.

Utensils and Cookware

Invest in cookware and utensils that are easy to clean and store.

Storage and Refrigeration

A small refrigerator and proper storage containers will keep your ingredients fresh.

Meal Planning for the Road

Preparing Ahead

Consider prepping meals or ingredients at home before hitting the road. It can save time and reduce the need for extensive cooking.

Simple Recipes

There are countless simple and healthy recipes available online, specifically tailored for truckers. Meals that can be cooked in a single pan or slow cooker are particularly popular.

Planning Stops

Coordinate your schedule with stops that have facilities to replenish fresh ingredients, such as supermarkets near truck stops.

Safety Considerations

Proper Ventilation

Ensure that your cooking area is well-ventilated to prevent fumes from building up in the cab.

Fire Safety

Always have a fire extinguisher on hand and be aware of the fire safety regulations associated with in-cab cooking.

Tips for Success

Keep it Clean

Maintain a clean and organized cooking area to make the cooking process more enjoyable and efficient.

Embrace Creativity

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and flavors. Cooking on the road can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Stay Healthy On The Road

In-cab cooking offers a feasible and advantageous solution for truckers looking to save money and make healthier food choices. With a bit of planning and the right tools, anyone can turn their semi-truck into a mobile kitchen. Remember, in-cab cooking is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle shift that represents a wise and sustainable choice for the modern trucker.

At DSW, our truckers include inverters and auxiliary power units (APUs) that make it easier to use cooking appliances and more in your truck. We support our drivers and strive to work as hard for them as they work for us.

To learn more about our open trucking positions, contact us today.

As a professional truck driver, encountering roadside inspections is a common part of your job. These inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain the overall integrity of the transportation industry. In this blog, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and advice on how to handle roadside inspections efficiently and effectively, helping you navigate through these inspections with confidence.

Be Prepared

The key to a successful roadside inspection is preparation. Before hitting the road, ensure that all your paperwork is in order. Keep your driver’s license, medical card, and commercial driver’s license (CDL) readily accessible. Make sure your vehicle’s registration, insurance documents, and permits are up to date and organized. Ensure accurate records of your driving hours and know how to share these using your electronic logging device (ELD). By having all necessary documents in order, you can demonstrate your commitment to safety and compliance, making the inspection process smoother.

Perform Pre-Trip Inspections

Regularly conducting pre-trip inspections is crucial for a truck driver. It allows you to identify and address any potential issues before they become a problem during an inspection. Pay close attention to critical areas such as brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels. Ensure that your load is secure and properly distributed. Keep a checklist handy to ensure you cover all necessary areas during your inspections. By maintaining a well-maintained vehicle and addressing any issues promptly, you’ll not only pass inspections with ease but also enhance safety on the road.

Remain Calm and Cooperative

When faced with a roadside inspection, it’s essential to remain calm and cooperative with the inspector. Treat the inspector with respect and professionalism. Answer their questions honestly and concisely. If there is a problem, listen carefully and follow their instructions. Demonstrating a cooperative attitude will help build a positive rapport with the inspector and can help lead to a smoother inspection process.

Stay Up to Date on Regulations

The transportation industry is subject to ever-changing regulations and compliance standards. It’s crucial to stay informed and up to date on the latest rules and requirements. Regularly review the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines, as well as any state-specific regulations. By staying informed, you can ensure that your vehicle, equipment, and documentation are always in compliance, reducing the likelihood of citations or penalties during inspections.

Learn From Each Inspection

Even if you pass an inspection without any issues, take it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Reflect on the experience and identify areas where you can enhance your preparedness or vehicle maintenance. Discuss the inspection with your colleagues or supervisor to gain insights and share best practices. Continuous learning and improvement will not only help you handle future inspections more effectively but also contribute to your growth as a professional truck driver.

Drive With A Safety-Conscious Company

Roadside inspections are a routine part of the truck driver’s life. By being prepared, performing regular pre-trip inspections, maintaining a cooperative attitude, staying up to date on regulations, and learning from each inspection, you can navigate these inspections successfully. Remember, handling roadside inspections efficiently reflects your commitment to safety, compliance, and professionalism as a truck driver. 

Are you an experienced truck driver who takes pride in your commitment to safety and compliance? If so, DSW is the perfect place for you to thrive in your career! At DSW, we are dedicated to providing our drivers with comprehensive training and equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to excel.

When you join our team, you become part of a supportive community that values your professionalism and recognizes your contributions. With competitive compensation packages, excellent benefits, and numerous opportunities for growth and advancement, DSW offers a rewarding career path for passionate truck drivers like you. 

Take the next step towards a fulfilling journey and apply today to join our team at DSW.

Securing your cargo properly is extremely important when transporting goods and materials in the trucking industry. It protects your valuable assets and ensures the safety of drivers and others on the road. 

Know the Regulations

To ensure safety on the road, it’s crucial for trucking companies and drivers to understand the rules for securing cargo set by regulatory authorities like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules outline the minimum requirements for securing different types of cargo, such as general freight, hazardous materials, and specific equipment like logs or metal coils. Understanding these rules will help you comply with regulations and avoid fines or penalties.

Distribute and Balance the Load Properly

Maintaining a balanced load is important for safe cargo transportation. Uneven weight distribution can make the truck unstable, leading to accidents or damage to the cargo. To achieve even weight distribution, place heavy items at the center and bottom of the cargo space. Distribute the weight equally on both sides and secure the load using appropriate equipment like straps, chains, or tie-downs, depending on the cargo type and regulations.

Use the Right Equipment and Techniques

Using suitable equipment and techniques is crucial to prevent cargo from shifting or moving during transit. Common equipment includes straps, chains, binders, winches, and edge protectors. Choose the equipment that matches the weight and type of cargo you’re transporting. Before each trip, check the equipment to ensure it’s in good condition, and replace any worn-out parts.

When securing your cargo, use a combination of direct and indirect tie-down methods. Direct tie-downs involve attaching chains or straps directly to the cargo, while indirect tie-downs use friction and blocking devices to secure the load against the walls or floor of the cargo space.

Use Appropriate Restraints for Different Cargo Types

Different cargo types require specific restraints to ensure stability during transportation. For example, use webbing straps for general freight and steel chains for heavy machinery or equipment. Hazardous materials have additional regulations and may require specialized restraints, along with specific labeling and placarding.

Understanding the characteristics of your cargo is important for selecting the right restraints and ensuring proper securement. We train drivers and employees in proper cargo handling techniques, including choosing and applying suitable restraints for different cargo types.

Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keep your cargo securement effective. Before each trip, carefully inspect your equipment for any signs of wear and tear, loose or damaged components, or degradation. Promptly repair or replace any damaged equipment to maintain the safety and integrity of your cargo. Be sure to continue to check your cargo during your daily pre-trip inspections. 

Stay Safe On The Road

If you’re looking for a trucking company that prioritizes safety, choose DSW. In addition, we offer competitive pay and benefits for our drivers. 

Contact us today to learn more about our open truck driving jobs.

Maintaining a good Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score is crucial for professional drivers operating in the United States. The CSA program was introduced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles on the nation’s roadways. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the basics of CSA scores and their significance, as well as provide tips for truckers to manage and improve their scores.

Understanding CSA Scores

The CSA program uses a comprehensive system to measure the safety performance of motor carriers and drivers. It evaluates safety data gathered from various sources, including inspections, crash reports, and violations. The data is then categorized into seven Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs). 

The seven categories are as follows:

1. Unsafe Driving: Covers violations such as speeding, reckless driving, and improper lane changes.
2. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Compliance: Focuses on violations related to driving and rest time regulations.
3. Driver Fitness: Evaluates driver qualifications, including licensing, medical certifications, and records.
4. Controlled Substances and Alcohol: Addresses violations related to drug and alcohol use by drivers.
5. Vehicle Maintenance: Assesses commercial vehicle inspections, repairs, and maintenance records.
6. Hazardous Materials Compliance: This applies to carriers transporting hazardous materials and their compliance with regulations.
7. Crash Indicator: Analyzes crash history, including frequency, severity, and contributing factors.

Each category contributes to a carrier’s overall CSA score, which is calculated based on the severity and recency of violations or incidents. Higher scores indicate poorer safety performance and could lead to interventions and increased scrutiny from enforcement agencies.

The Importance of CSA Scores

Maintaining a good CSA score is crucial for several reasons:

1. Compliance: CSA scores reflect a carrier’s compliance with safety regulations, which is a legal requirement. Trucking carriers with poor scores may face penalties, fines, and potential license suspension.
2. Safety Reputation: CSA scores are publicly available and can influence the perception of carriers by shippers, brokers, and insurers. A good score demonstrates a commitment to safety and professionalism, potentially attracting more business opportunities.
3. Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often consider CSA scores when determining premiums. Lower scores can lead to more favorable rates, reducing operational costs.

Tips to Manage and Improve CSA Scores

Now that we understand the significance of CSA scores, here are some tips to help truckers and carriers manage and improve their scores:

1. Stay Updated: Regularly check your CSA score and review violations and incidents. Understanding the areas that need improvement is the first step toward taking corrective action.
2. Implement Safety Programs: Develop and implement comprehensive safety programs that address each BASIC category. Carriers should train drivers on safe driving techniques, HOS compliance, and vehicle maintenance protocols.
3. Pre-Trip Inspections: Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections to identify and address vehicle maintenance issues before they lead to violations or incidents.
4. Maintain Accurate Records: Keep detailed records of driver qualifications, HOS compliance, vehicle maintenance, and roadside inspection reports. Accurate and up-to-date records demonstrate a commitment to safety and compliance.
5. Emphasize Driver Training: Invest in continuous training programs for drivers to reinforce safe driving practices, HOS compliance, and CSA regulations awareness.
6. Address Compliance Issues Promptly: When violations occur, address them promptly by taking corrective measures, such as driver counseling, additional training, or disciplinary actions, if necessary.
7. Utilize Technology: Leverage technology solutions like Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to ensure accurate HOS compliance, telematics systems for monitoring driving behavior, and maintenance management software to track vehicle maintenance records.

Grow Your Truck Driving Career With DSW

Truck driving is a fast-growing career field, with many trucking companies competing to get drivers to work with them. At DSW, we help our drivers succeed with benefits like tuition reimbursement, mentorship programs, and state-of-the-art technologies. Whether you have just graduated from a commercial driver’s license (CDL) program or already have trucking experience, we are the best choice to grow your career.

Contact us today to discover our current job openings.

When you’re a trucker, life on the road can be demanding. Long hours behind the wheel mean you need rest, nourishment, and facilities that offer more than the basic amenities. One crucial element to make your journey smoother is finding the best truck stops. How do you find the ideal one that meets all your needs?

Here are a few tips to help you find the best truck stops:

Understand Your Needs

Truckers’ needs can vary greatly. Some may require basic amenities like fuel, food, and a clean restroom, while others might need more advanced facilities like laundry services, shower facilities, truck servicing, or a comfortable place to rest. These needs also vary from stop to stop as you continue on your route. Understand what you require on your route and keep these factors in mind when looking for truck stops.

Use Truck Stop Locator Apps

In this digital age, technology is a trucker’s best friend. There are several truck stop locator apps available that can make the search process easier. These apps provide up-to-date information on nearby truck stops, including their facilities and reviews from other truckers. They can be instrumental in finding the best truck stops based on your needs.

Check Online Reviews

Before deciding on a truck stop, it’s always a good idea to check online reviews. Websites like Yelp, Google, and trucker-specific forums can provide valuable insight into the experiences of fellow truckers. This can help you gauge the quality of facilities, level of service, and overall environment of a truck stop.

Look for Amenities and Services

A great truck stop is more than just fuel and food. Look for places that offer a wider range of amenities and services, such as truck maintenance and repair services, truck wash, laundry facilities, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and/or pet-friendly spaces. Some truck stops also offer reward programs, which could lead to significant savings in the long run.

Safety First

Safety should always be a priority. Choose truck stops that are well-lit, have secure parking, and are located in safe areas. Look for truck stops with 24-hour security services. Remember, a well-rested and safe driver is a more effective driver.

Food Quality

For many truckers, the quality of food is an essential consideration. An ideal truck stop should have a variety of food options, including healthier choices. Some truck stops even feature local restaurants that offer a taste of the local cuisine. Good food not only satisfies your hunger but also gives you the energy to continue your journey.

Think Beyond Chains

While large chain truck stops offer consistency and a wide range of services, don’t rule out smaller, independent truck stops. Often, these places offer a unique charm and personal service. They can be a nice change from the norm.

Drive With DSW

Finding the best truck stops requires a bit of planning and research. But with these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to finding those gems that make life on the road just a bit more comfortable. Remember, it’s not just about the destination, but also the journey, and finding the right truck stops can make all the difference.

If you’re interested in finding a carrier that works as hard for you as you work for them, consider a career with DSW. We know our drivers by name, not by truck number, and offer competitive pay and benefits.

Contact us today to learn more about our open truck driving jobs.

Once you’ve finished commercial driver’s license (CDL) school and completed your on-the-road training, you’re ready to hit the road as a solo trucker. The first year as a rookie driver is often intimidating. You’ll be out for the first time without a trainer immediately available for any questions, and there are many new situations you’ll be facing. At the same time, it’s often exciting to finally have your own truck and be able to manage your own time on the open road. Staying calm and prioritizing safety can help you make the most of your first year as a rookie trucker.

Here are some tips for new drivers to help calm your nerves:

1. Slow Down

It’s important to meet deadlines for deliveries, and you should be planning your time effectively to do this. At the same time, being overly focused on getting everything done as quickly as possible is not the best strategy. For one thing, it compromises your safety. If you’re rushing, you’re more likely to make mistakes on the road. In addition, you’re more likely to get overwhelmed, which further increases your risk of causing an accident since your mind isn’t fully focused on driving.

Make a conscious effort to slow down. If you notice that you are getting stressed and rushing, take a few deep breaths. Remember that no matter how urgent it feels to back into the loading dock quickly or get through the mountain roads as soon as possible, your safety is more important than anything else. Take your time and make sure you’re doing things right rather than just doing them fast.

2. Find Relaxation Strategies That Work For You

Everyone has different strategies that can help them relax and minimize stress. Experiment to find the options that work best for you. Try to come up with a mix of strategies that you can use in the moment (such as taking a deep breath) and ways to unwind when you’re not behind the wheel (like mindfulness meditation or a favorite hobby). This can help you feel calmer in heated moments and reduce your overall stress level over time.

3. Review Your Progress

After every day on the road, take a moment to reflect. What did you do well? What could you have done better? Did you make any mistakes, and how could you avoid making the same ones in the future? This can help you shift your perspective from feeling overwhelmed at driving solo as a new driver into looking at how you can improve and grow.

4. Prioritize Your Health

Your health is strongly connected to your ability to manage stress. If you aren’t taking care of your health, you’re more likely to feel anxious. Be sure to prioritize getting enough sleep each night, eating healthy foods, and drinking enough water. Although this may not seem related to staying calm on the road, you’ll be surprised to notice how much of a difference it can make.

5. Get Help If You Need It

Although you won’t have a trainer in your passenger seat anymore, this doesn’t mean you don’t have any resources. There are many ways you can ask for help if you run into problems on the road. Look into company-specific resources, such as roadside assistance options or mentors you can turn to with questions. You can also talk to other truckers online and get support and advice – just be sure to take anything with a grain of salt.

Work With A Supportive Trucking Company

DSW is hiring for over-the-road (OTR) and regional positions. We work with experienced drivers and rookies and strive to work as hard for you as you work for us.

Contact us today to learn more about our open positions.

You can earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks with accelerated truck driver training. After this, many students have offers for jobs lined up. However, this doesn’t mean that your training is entirely complete. Most motor carriers require some form of on-the-road training with one of their mentors before you can hit the road solo.

This time period can often cause some anxiety for students. You’ll be sharing a truck with someone else, and you’ll be learning on the job how to operate a truck and be successful on the road. Although this time can be stressful, there are many ways you can make the most of the experience and prepare yourself for the rest of your career.

Here are some tips for on-the-road training for new truckers:

1. Manage Your Expectations

Some students go into on-the-road training expecting a full overview of everything they need to know about trucking. The truth is more complex.

You will be learning a great deal during this time period. You’ll gain a greater understanding of how your specific company operates and will get experience behind the wheel. However, you should expect to keep learning once you go solo, and throughout your trucking career. There are many situations that can arise on the road, and you won’t likely be exposed to all of them during the training period.

2. Pack Lightly

You’ll be sharing a relatively small space with another trucker, and it’s important to be reasonable with how much you take with you. It’s best to stick to the essentials for now. Make sure you have clothes, personal care supplies, food, water, documents, and any medication. It’s okay to bring a few personal items to feel more at home, but you’ll want to wait until you go solo to fully personalize your truck and bring any extras.

>3. Work Effectively With Your Trainer

Each trainer will have a different approach to teaching, and it’s important to understand how to effectively communicate with yours no matter what their approach is. Let them know what helps you learn best and be sure to ask questions if you don’t understand something. You have a valuable resource during this time, and you should take advantage of the ability to get feedback and learn more.

That being said, keep in mind that your trainer is balancing teaching you with making deliveries on time. Keep your requests reasonable, and work with them based on their needs as well.

4. Review Each Day

To get the most out of your training period, take a moment to review your performance after each day on the road. Ask yourself what you did well and if anything went poorly. It’s normal to make mistakes as a new driver, and the best thing you can do is learn from them, so you continue to grow.

5. Remember That Training Is Temporary

If you don’t get along with your trainer, keep in mind that this training period is temporary. Try your best to communicate effectively and work through your differences. Of course, there is a difference between disagreeing with your trainer’s methods and feeling unsafe. If your trainer is abusive, let a supervisor know right away and work with them to find a resolution.

Start Your Trucking Career

If you’ve earned your CDL and are ready to find a trucking company that works as hard for you as you’ll work for it, consider DSW. We have regional and over-the-road (OTR) positions available. We offer competitive pay and benefits and combine big carrier freight with a small company feel.

To learn more about trucking with DSW, contact us today.

With cannabidiol (CBD) becoming increasingly popular in recent years, many people have begun using this product. However, there are still many questions and misconceptions surrounding CBD, including whether or not professional drivers can use it. This blog discusses how CBD can affect drug test results and what to consider before using these products as a trucker.

Drug Testing as a Truck Driver

Drivers must understand the legal implications before deciding to use (or not use) CBD. 

Truck drivers are considered safety-sensitive workers and must undergo a drug test before operating a commercial vehicle. Truck drivers are also subject to random drug tests and tests following certain circumstances, such as testing after an accident, returning to duty, or if the driver appears to be under the influence. Typically, these drug tests will screen for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and other substances. 

Will CBD Show Up on a Drug Test?

CBD is not one of the substances drivers are tested for. However, while CBD products derived from hemp are legal in most states, they can still cause a positive drug test result. Some hemp-derived CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. This can cause a driver to test positive for marijuana, which federal regulations prohibit.

In most cases, CBD use is not a legitimate medical explanation for a confirmed positive marijuana result. A Medical Review Officer must verify the drug test, then report the positive test to the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This data will be available to all employers in the trucking industry and could affect future employment opportunities.

What Truckers Should Consider Before Using CBD

While truck drivers are not prohibited from using CBD products, there are a few aspects they must consider before using this substance.

Know The DOT’s Position

The Department of Transportation (DOT) released a statement about CBD use in 2020. They clarified that while they do not test for CBD use among safety-sensitive employees, CBD use is not an acceptable excuse for a positive THC result. The organization advises that drivers should exercise caution when deciding whether or not to use CBD products due to a lack of regulation in the CBD industry. 

Follow the Local Laws

One aspect to consider when deciding whether to use CBD products as a truck driver is that laws differ from state to state. While marijuana and its derived products are legal in many states, it is still illegal on the federal level. Before using CBD products, it is vital to research and follow the laws regarding CBD in your area.

Know How CBD Affects Your Condition

In addition, CBD affects different people and conditions in different ways. Some CBD users report experiencing side effects, including drowsiness, and truck drivers who have similar experiences should not operate their vehicles while using these products. If a trucker uses CBD and becomes inattentive while on the road, it may play a part in a motor vehicle accident, similar to driving under the influence, and could be evidence of negligence. 

Only Buy CBD From a Reputable Source

Finally, drivers who do choose to use CBD should only purchase products from reputable sources. The FDA does not regulate the CBD industry, and many products have disclaimers that state the company cannot make any claims on whether or not the product will show up on a drug test. For this reason, professional truck drivers should research and make sure the products they use are safe and effective.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line for anyone in the trucking industry using CBD is that while it is legal, there is no guarantee that these products will not appear on a drug test and affect the rest of your career. For many truck drivers, this is not a risk worth taking, but it is ultimately up to each driver to make the best choice for themselves.

If you are a safe truck driver ready to hit the road, DSW is hiring for regional and over-the-road (OTR) positions. We are a safety-conscious trucking company with a management team of former drivers who understand how to support your needs as a professional driver. 

Contact us today to learn more about our open positions.

Life on the road can be lonely for professional drivers, but having a canine companion can make the miles melt away. Whether you’re out on the open road for days or weeks at a time or just running a few local routes, having a four-legged friend can provide companionship and security. But what are the best breeds for trucking dogs? Read on to discover the benefits of driving with a pet and the best breeds for truck drivers.

Benefits of Trucking With a Dog

Truck driving with a dog offers numerous benefits for both the driver and their canine partner. Not only does it provide companionship, but it also helps reduce stress, boosts morale, and adds an extra layer of safety.

Reduce Stress Levels

Having a canine companion on the road can be a great way to reduce stress. Studies have shown that petting a dog can lower blood pressure, decrease stress hormones, and increase “happy hormone” serotonin levels. These benefits can be especially helpful on long drives when fatigue sets in, helping keep the driver alert and focused.

Boost Morale

Driving with a dog can also boost morale and add a bit of fun to long trips. Dogs are naturally social creatures, so having one in your truck can be a great way to break up the monotony of driving for long periods of time. Plus, they can be great conversation starters at rest stops along your route.

Increase Safety

In addition to providing companionship and stress relief, having a dog in the truck adds an extra layer of safety. Having a dog with you in your truck cab can help deter thefts and burglaries, as well as alert you to potential dangers.

The Best Trucking Dog Breeds

Many breeds of dogs make great trucking partners. A loyal, protective, intelligent dog can provide companionship and security on the open road. With some training, most breeds can make a great trucking dog. However, some are better suited to life on the road.

Some great breeds for trucking dogs:

1. German Shepherd

The first breed that comes to mind for many drivers is the German Shepherd. This breed is intelligent, loyal, and known for being an excellent guard dog. German Shepherds are also easy to train, so they can quickly learn the rules of the road. They are trusted companions who can help keep their owners safe while they drive their routes. However, these are a larger breed, so be sure to consider whether you have enough space in your cab and if you are ready to provide them with the daily exercise they need.  

2. Labrador Retriever

Another popular breed for truckers is the Labrador Retriever. This breed is known for being friendly and easy-going, so they make great driving companions. They are also highly intelligent. Labs are also very loyal and will always be there for their owners. Like German Shepherds, they are also larger, so you should keep this in mind. 

3. Chihuahua

If you prefer a smaller breed, a chihuahua is often a great choice for a trucking dog. They don’t require as much space as larger dogs, and they are known for being great road companions. 

4. Miniature Pinscher

This is another great choice for a smaller dog breed. Miniature pinschers are also very aware of their surroundings, making them a great guard dog without some of the drawbacks that come with a larger breed. 

Drive With a Pet-Friendly Trucking Company

If you want to bring your furry friend to work, trucking is one of the few careers where you can do so. DSW is a pet-friendly trucking company and understands the benefits of driving with your dog or cat. We are happy to discuss our pet policy in detail with our potential new drivers. 

To discuss our pet policy and the other benefits of driving with DSW, contact us today.