How to plan your day as a truck driver
As the saying goes “fail to prepare, prepare to fail”, with the same principles applying if you’re a truck driver. It’s always important to lay out your day ahead of schedule to ensure that you’re using your time efficiently. Planning simply helps drivers know where they’re going, when they’re going to get there and if there could be any issues along the way, here’s our top tips:
Check the weather
It may sound simple but checking the weather before you set off on your journey is always important. As we outlined in our previous blog, the changing weather conditions can make your job as a driver much more difficult, so knowing how you may need to prepare your vehicle can go a long way.
Plan fuel stops in advance
There’s not much worse than realising you’re running low on fuel when you’ve got no idea where the closest station is. There are plenty of apps out there which can tell you where all the fuel stations are, so pre-planning where you may need to fill up will save you a lot of hassle. Price can fluctuate between different stations also, so it’s important to do your homework before you begin your journey to see where you can pick up the best deal, and whether they accept your fuel card.
Plan your breaks
With a maximum of 56 hours weekly driving limit, along the course of your journey you will have to take regular stops. Depending on whether you’re taking a 45-minute break or you’re settling down for a 9 hour stop over, there are plenty of places up and down the UK that are suitable. Most service stations along the motorway have dedicated truck stop destinations, or you can book yourself in to local hotels that are close to your route. Pre-planning where you are going to take your stops can save you valuable time that you may have spent searching for a suitable location, helping you make sure your goods are delivered on time.
Use traffic warning apps
In the modern era, mobile phone apps usually know about upcoming RTA’s before we do. Therefore, it’s important you have an up to date application on your phone that can warn you about upcoming accidents on route. If this is done in time, it can allow you to find an alternative route that won’t make you sit in traffic for hours on end.
Manage expectations
A key part of your day should always be to keep your customers up to date with your movements. Whether that’s letting them know you’re running slightly behind schedule, or even that you’re going to be there earlier than expected, telling your customers your ETA can help keep their expectations in check. Customer satisfaction should always be at the top of your list as a business, so clear communication is always a good way to make sure they have the best experience possible.
Do you need help with your haulage? Call the team with your requirements to see how we can help.