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Combating isolation and jealousy: advice for my trucker friend

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Image : Betterteam
Image : Betterteam

Dear friend,

I know that your career as a truck driver requires you to spend a lot of time away from your partner, and that must not be easy. I am aware that distance can cause feelings of isolation, loneliness, and uncertainty in a relationship, which can be difficult to manage. That is why it is important for you and your partner to work together to overcome the challenges that distance can present.

I understand that maintaining regular and meaningful communication can be difficult, but it is essential that you achieve it to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Distance can also make it harder to solve problems and make decisions together, which can lead to a loss of trust and respect in the relationship. To overcome these obstacles, it is important to communicate regularly and openly, to plan quality time together, and to find creative ways to maintain your connection despite the distance.

I know that jealousy can be a problem in a long-distance relationship, and it can be due to loneliness and insecurity. However, it is important not to let jealousy destroy your relationship. To overcome this, it is crucial to communicate honestly and openly with your partner. Talk about your feelings clearly and without judgment, and listen with empathy and understanding. Establish clear boundaries by discussing your expectations and needs, which can help build trust and reduce jealousy. You can also work with a counselor or therapist to develop communication and conflict resolution strategies.

Finally, I know that life on the road can be lonely, so don’t forget to surround yourself with people who support you and bring positivity. Don’t hesitate to connect with your fellow truckers during stops to feel accompanied. And finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself and enjoy your days off to relax and discover new things. Whether alone or with your partner, these moments can be very beneficial for your overall well-being. And always remember that you are loved.

Take care of yourself, my friend.

Ideal Food Service Corp acquires Distribution en Route as part of its growth strategy

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Ideal Food Service Corp has acquired Distribution en Route as part of its development strategy focused on acquisitions and organic growth. This acquisition will allow the company to strengthen its presence in the market and leverage its leadership.

Led by Petros Louladakis since 2018, Ideal Food Service Corp has managed to multiply its sales sixfold with a qualified team of 45 people, including key members from its acquisitions.

With this acquisition, Ideal becomes the largest independent full-line foodservice distributor on the island of Montreal. According to Petros Louladakis, this acquisition reinforces their presence in the fast food sector in Quebec and brings them closer to their long-term goal of becoming the largest distributor in Quebec.

Ideal Food Service Corp is a family-owned business that believes professional relationships are built between people rather than companies. The company is proud to offer the best national brands, including Viandor, Rendo, Nina, and Pronto.

How to minimize injury risks in trucking

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Image : Fleet owner
Image : Fleet owner
Image : Fleet owner
Image : Fleet owner

Trucking is a profession that exposes drivers to many injury risks. Here are the most common risks they face:

  1. Road accidents: Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, increasing their risk of accidents. Truck accidents can be very serious, resulting in injuries or even death. Additionally, night driving can be more difficult due to reduced visibility and increased fatigue.
  2. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): MSDs account for about 40% of all work-related injuries in the transportation industry. Truck drivers are at increased risk of developing MSDs due to long periods of sitting and loading and unloading cargo.
  3. Injuries related to loading and unloading: Truck drivers can be injured while lifting heavy objects, slipping, tripping, or getting caught in the cargo.
  4. Lifestyle-related illnesses: Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, often eating unhealthy foods and sleeping poorly, which can lead to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
  5. Stress: Truck drivers can experience significant stress due to the pressure to deliver goods on time, heavy traffic, and long hours of driving. Stress can have negative consequences on the mental and physical health of drivers.

It is essential for truck drivers to take measures to minimize injury risks. Here are some ways to do so:

Take regular breaks: Truck drivers should stop regularly to rest, stretch their legs, and exercise. It is important not to drive for long periods without a break, as this increases the risk of fatigue and accidents.

Recognize signs of fatigue: Signs of fatigue include drowsiness, frequent yawning, difficulty concentrating, and itchy eyes. Truck drivers should be aware of these signs and stop to rest if necessary.

Manage stress: Truck drivers can manage their stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. They can also find ways to distract themselves during the long hours on the road, such as listening to music or audiobooks.

Eat healthily: Truck drivers should make sure to eat healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid fatty and sugary foods. They can also pack healthy meals and snacks to avoid eating junk food on the road.

Stay in shape: Truck drivers can maintain their physical fitness by regularly practicing stretching and strength exercises to reduce the risk of MSDs. It is also important to take the time to do cardiovascular exercise, such as walking or running, to maintain overall health.

Receive safety training: Truck drivers should receive safety training to learn best practices for driving, loading, and unloading cargo. Employers should also provide adequate safety equipment to reduce the risk of injury.

By following these tips, truck drivers can reduce injury risks on the road and maintain their overall health. It is important to remember that safety should always be the top priority when driving a truck.

Truck driving: a surprising and exciting career choice for you, young adults!

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Photo : NACS
Photo : NACS

Hey there, young folks! Did you know that truck drivers are the unsung heroes of the economy? They play a crucial role in delivering goods and materials across the country and keeping businesses and consumers supplied with the resources they need to operate.

Being a truck driver may sound tough, but it’s also a thrilling and rewarding career with many opportunities for personal and professional growth. You get to enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with the job, traveling to different places, exploring new cities, and meeting new people. Who knows, you might even become the next travel influencer!

And the earning potential is also very interesting, with many truck drivers making good money. In fact, some drivers can even earn six-figure salaries, especially if they have specialized skills or work in high-demand areas. This means that truck driving can be a well-paying profession that provides financial security and stability.

What’s more, there are many opportunities for advancement in the trucking industry, with drivers moving up the ranks and taking on more responsibility, such as becoming a trainer or manager. Some even start their own trucking companies, which can be a lucrative and exciting career path. Imagine being your own boss and cruising down the road in your very own rig!

But it’s not just about the money and freedom. Truck drivers also take pride in delivering goods to customers and playing a vital role in the economy. If you’re the type of person who enjoys helping others and being part of something bigger than yourself, then truck driving can be a fulfilling and meaningful career choice.

And don’t worry if you’re new to the industry, as many trucking companies offer training programs and support for new drivers. Plus, they often provide good benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans, which can provide additional financial security. You’ll be well taken care of while you’re out there on the open road.

In conclusion, being a truck driver is a challenging but exciting profession that offers many benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. So, if you’re looking for a career that offers adventure, financial security, personal satisfaction, and independence, truck driving could be the perfect fit for you!

Join the industry today and become a part of the rock star team of truck drivers that helps keep our country moving forward!

Life on the road

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Whether you’re new to the trucking world or you have been hauling for 20 plus years maintaining a good relationship with your partner, friends and family is much harder than non-truckdrivers.  

While on the road there are many things that run through our minds like, money problems, relationship insecurities and like Alan Jackson sings “Who’s Cheating Who?”.  Sometimes, time can become long and repetitive just because you cannot talk to people in person. You get caught up in small details and that leads to a lot of worry and can consume you, and your world can become very small. 

Keeping peace in your household is sometimes hard, but trying to keep an open line of communication open is key. Luckily, now with new technology, it’s much easier to keep in touch by Facetiming and Messenger. It makes the end of a long day easier and helps with all the little worries. Nothing like a video chat with your loved ones, family, favorite pets to make you feel more relaxed and appreciated. 

If ever worries pile up and you feel like there is no solution, there are always ways to talk to someone who can help sort out your worries Crisis Service Canada at 1-833-456-4566. 24/7. Yes, its cliché and many do not talk about it out loud, but many people can benefit from reaching out for help, there’s no shame, only help! 

Having something to look forward too is also another great coping technique, make plans to go on a date with your partner. Even if it’s watching a movie and sharing snacks or discovering a new place to eat or go over to your best buddy’s place and play cards. On your time off just don’t sleep or hang around the house. Try something new, it will give you plenty to think about on the road. 

Stay safe! 

Q1 Carrier Rate Report 2023

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The freight transportation industry begins 2023 in a challenging economic environment, marked by high fuel and equipment prices that have eroded profit margins in 2022. Truck transportation demand declined over the course of the year due to persistent inflation, with plummeting spot market rates putting downward pressure on contractual rates.

Despite these difficulties, there are encouraging signs for the freight market. Inflation is expected to stabilize, and the situation is expected to improve in 2023. Financially well-positioned companies have an opportunity to gain market share, and interesting acquisitions for carriers looking to expand their operations may present themselves. Analysts predict a less eventful end of the year, and it is essential that carriers adopt an enlightened approach to face current market conditions.

In this context, current market conditions are manageable, provided that carriers adopt an enlightened approach to manage risks. The effects of these market conditions will not be felt equally by all companies, but those with a diversified and effective strategy are more likely to weather the storm. Business leaders must therefore be ready to make tough decisions to keep their operations afloat and seek growth opportunities, particularly by focusing on the most favorable markets and modes of transportation.

This is a challenging time, but with effective risk management, transportation companies can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger in the long run.

Source : FreightWaves

ISAAC will introduce the ISAAC Connect smartphone application at the Truckload 2023 event

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The complementary technology of ISAAC InControl helps drivers stay connected.

Today, ISAAC Instruments announced that its new ISAAC Connect smartphone application will be presented at the Truckload 2023 event of TCA from March 4 to 7 in Orlando, Florida.

ISAAC Connect is complementary technology to the main ISAAC InControl solution and its rugged tablet. The smartphone application allows drivers to stay connected with their carrier on their personal devices when they are not in the truck cab or when they are off duty.

With ISAAC Connect, drivers can view information on hours of service (HOS), check with dispatchers for changes in travel schedules, access messages, and review important documents or ISAAC Coach reports.

All information is automatically synchronized between the cab tablet and the smartphone application. This provides a unified communication channel for all work-related activities, separate from personal text and voice messages.

“Our customers have told us that they need to simplify communication even further to better meet the needs of drivers,” said Jacques DeLarochellière, CEO and co-founder of ISAAC. “For the 500 fleets and 50,000 drivers who use our technology every day, critical functions must be executed on a rugged cab tablet. For other tasks, however, the use of a personal device may be suitable.”

The goal is to give drivers better control over their communications outside of working hours, for example, when they want to start preparing for their first delivery of the coming week. Also, the new smartphone application allows drivers to communicate with the dispatcher at their convenience when they are away from their vehicle at a rest stop or shipper.

“ISAAC is constantly evolving to ensure that our solution meets the needs of carriers and drivers,” said Manon L’Espérance, Product Manager at ISAAC. “ISAAC Connect makes it easier for drivers and operations to access information when they need it to improve planning and productivity.”

ISAAC Connect will be available for Android devices on Google Play starting in March and on Apple’s App Store later in the second quarter.

Participants at the annual Truckload Carriers Association event can meet with ISAAC experts at booth 423 or schedule a demo by visiting the events page.

TFI International Acquires Axsun

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Image : La Presse
Image : La Presse

TFI International Inc. has announced its acquisition of Axsun Group, a North American intermodal and freight brokerage services provider. With multiple locations in Canada and the US, Axsun offers a range of intermodal services as well as over-the-road highway, drayage, logistics and warehousing. Under the leadership of President and CEO Steve Ramescu, the company operates a small fleet of approximately 20 tractors and 300 trailers, generating annualized revenues of around CAD$90 million.

Mr. Ramescu will continue to lead the business under TFI International’s Logistics segment, reporting to TFI Senior Executive Vice-President Steven Brookshaw. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Alain Bédard, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of TFI International, praised Axsun’s asset-light and technologically sophisticated approach to serving a demanding Fortune 100 customer base. He noted that the company’s existing business will complement TFI International’s service offerings in both Canada and the US, with many customers increasingly looking towards intermodal as a solution for their freight movement needs.

TFI International welcomes Axsun’s contributions to its continued growth and emphasis on service quality under its umbrella, and extends a warm welcome to Steve and his team.

Choosing the best transportation company for your professional trucking career

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If you’re searching for a job as a truck driver, it’s essential to find a transportation company that supports you in your work and ensures your safety on the road. During your job search, there are several key factors to consider in order to find the best company for you.

First, it’s important to consider all aspects of compensation when comparing hourly wages versus per-mile/kilometer wages, including bonuses and annual salary. You should also take into account other benefits offered by the company, such as social benefits and retirement plans, as well as quality of life and professional growth opportunities. By carefully examining all of this information, you can make an informed choice to find the transportation company that best suits your needs.

In addition to compensation, here are some key elements to consider when looking for a job as a truck driver: make sure the company adheres to regulations to ensure your safety and that of other road users. Also, check that working hours are reasonable and do not endanger your health. Next, make sure the equipment is in good working order and that the trucks are well-maintained and equipped with cutting-edge technology to improve your safety, comfort, and efficiency. It’s also important to choose a company that values its employees, offers an inclusive company culture, encourages training and professional growth, and offers attractive social benefits to provide you with a pleasant work environment.

Quality of life is an important element to consider. Make sure the company offers social benefits such as paid time off, wellness programs, insurance, and other benefits to allow you to maintain a good quality of life. Finally, look for a company that offers professional growth opportunities such as training, promotions, or opportunities to become an owner-operator if that is part of your future goals.

To ask the right questions during the interview, here are some examples:

• What is the hourly wage or per-mile/kilometer wage offered?
• What are the bonuses and annual salary?
• What social benefits are offered, such as retirement plans and wellness programs?
• How does the company ensure the safety of its employees?
• How does the company value its employees and encourage professional growth?
• What are the working hours and expected workload?
• What types of equipment does the company use and how are they maintained?
• What professional growth opportunities are offered by the company?

In addition to the previously mentioned elements, it can be helpful to ask specific questions to better understand the working conditions and expectations of the company. For example, you can ask what routes the company typically uses to ensure that you are comfortable with the routes and driving conditions. You can also inquire about how communication is done between you, as a trucker, and the dispatcher, to ensure that you are informed of the latest updates and potential route changes.

It can also be helpful to ask what a typical day or trip looks like, to better understand the expectations and challenges you may face. By better understanding the company’s requirements, you can better prepare yourself and ensure that you are able to meet the company’s needs.

By asking all of these questions, you can be sure to choose a transportation company that meets your needs and expectations, and that allows you to work in a positive and fulfilling environment. Good luck in your search for a professional trucking job!

Truck drivers in America face a number of health risks due to their job

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Truck drivers in America face a number of health risks due to their job, such as long hours of sitting, poor diet options on the road, and limited access to exercise facilities. Obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, musculoskeletal disorders, and mental health issues are some of the most common health problems among them. To mitigate these risks, truck drivers can take several steps to improve their health.

One of the most important steps is to get enough sleep, as lack of sleep can lead to fatigue and impair cognitive function. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night is recommended. Poor sleep quality can also increase the risk of developing health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Eating a healthy and balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly are also essential for good health. Even simple exercises such as stretching or walking can make a big difference.

Truck drivers can also take breaks every two hours during long hauls to help reduce stress and prevent fatigue. During these breaks, they can stretch, walk around, and get some fresh air. Maintaining proper posture while sitting for extended periods is also essential to avoid musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain.

Mental health is also important, and truck drivers should seek help if they’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. Stress-reducing activities like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can also help. Social support, such as staying in touch with family and friends, can also be beneficial.

In summary, truck drivers face a variety of health risks due to their job, but by taking steps to prioritize their health, they can reduce the risk of developing health problems that may impact their ability to work. By getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking breaks, maintaining proper posture, and taking care of their mental health, truck drivers can improve their overall health and well-being, and continue to perform their essential role in the transportation industry.

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