Call us: (980) 580-6010

Start Your Trucking Company: FMCSA Authority Prep Guide

March 13, 2025

Thinking about hitting the road with your own trucking company? This guide is your no-nonsense roadmap to getting your FMCSA authority without hitting any bumps. We'll walk you through the essential prep work, from figuring out those hefty insurance costs and picking the right business structure like an LLC, to setting up your business addresses and handling the flood of calls and emails that come with starting up. You'll learn how to keep your personal life separate, manage your communications like a pro, and what to look out for when the FMCSA comes calling for your new entrant audit. This isn't just theory; it's practical, actionable advice to help you build a solid foundation, stay compliant, and get your wheels turning smoothly. Don't just hope for the best; prepare for success.

DOT Record & Truck Insurance: Clean Record, Lower Rates

March 20, 2025

Learn how your DOT record impacts truck insurance premiums. Discover actionable strategies to maintain a clean DOT record, reduce risk, and save money on commercial truck insurance.

Trucking Insurance 101: What Coverage Do You Really Need?

March 27, 2025

Don't Overpay for Truck Insurance

Fast quotes, honest advice, only the coverage you actually need.

🏆 Top 10 truck insurance broker

logrock Blog

Best Trucker Apps 2025: Navigation, Fuel & Parking

Running a trucking business or driving independently means constantly looking for an edge. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you the top trucker apps for 2025, designed to tackle your biggest headaches on the road. We cover everything from reliable truck-safe navigation with real-time updates on weigh stations and rest areas to smart solutions for finding and reserving truck parking spots, so you can stop circling and start resting. Plus, discover how to slash your fuel costs with instant diesel discounts and stay ahead of the weather with accurate, real-time alerts. These aren't just gadgets; they're essential tools for saving time, boosting efficiency, cutting expenses, and ensuring you stay safe and compliant on every haul. Because smart trucking starts with the right tools, and knowing which ones to trust makes all the difference for your bottom line and peace of mind.

Trucker Emergency Kit: 25 Essentials for Safe Road Trips

Every independent trucker knows the road throws curveballs – from unexpected breakdowns to sudden storms. This essential guide equips small trucking company owners and independent drivers with a comprehensive list of 25 must-have items for their truck emergency kit. Learn what to pack for mechanical failures, personal safety, and comfort during long delays. Discover how being prepared can save you time, money, and stress, turning potential roadside disasters into manageable situations. Don't let unforeseen challenges derail your schedule; stock up with these practical essentials and hit the road with confidence, ready for anything.

10 Ways to Save on Trucking Insurance Premiums

Trucking insurance can feel like a heavy load on your budget, but it doesn't have to break the bank. This post lays out 10 no-nonsense strategies to slash your commercial trucking insurance premiums without compromising the coverage you need to stay on the road. Learn how shopping around, maintaining a clean driving record, leveraging telematics, and even strategically adjusting your deductibles can put hundreds, if not thousands, back in your pocket each year. We'll also break down where your premium dollars actually go, giving you the transparency you need to make smarter financial decisions. Stop letting high insurance costs eat into your profits and discover practical ways to protect your business and your bottom line. Get ready to drive down those expenses and keep more of your hard-earned cash where it belongs – with you.

Trucker Cab Essentials: Gear That Tells Your Road Story

Step inside any trucker's cab and you'll find more than just equipment; you'll discover a personal narrative of life on the road. This post explores 12 essential items that tell your unique story as an independent truck driver or small fleet owner. From the vital coffee setup that kickstarts your long hauls to the trusty multi-tool that proves your self-reliance, each item—be it a dog-eared atlas or a photo from home—reflects your work ethic, planning skills, and the deep pride you take in your rig. We delve into how these everyday necessities transform your cab into a true mobile office and home, showcasing the resilience, preparedness, and individuality that define every professional on America's highways. Understand what your gear says about you and why it matters.

Trucking Milestones: First Haul, Breakdown, & Big Paycheck

This article takes a nostalgic look at the unforgettable "firsts" every trucker experiences, from the adrenaline of their initial paid haul to the gritty reality of their first roadside breakdown. It delves into those pivotal moments—like conquering a long-distance route, acing a DOT inspection, and finally seeing that first big paycheck that truly makes the business *yours*. For small trucking company owners and independent drivers, these milestones aren't just memories; they're the foundational experiences that build resilience, self-reliance, and the true spirit of the road. Discover why these moments shape not just a career, but a lifestyle, and how they prepare you for every mile ahead.

Bundling Truck Insurance: Save on Commercial Policies

Tired of high insurance costs eating into your profits? This straight-talk guide dives deep into whether bundling your commercial trucking insurance policies can truly save you money. For owner-operators and small fleet owners, understanding the ins and outs of combining coverages like primary liability, physical damage, and cargo is crucial. Discover how many truckers are shaving an average of 10-12% off their annual premiums by bundling. We'll walk you through the types of policies you can combine, highlight the often-overlooked drawbacks, and pinpoint exactly when bundling makes the most financial sense for your unique operation. Learn how to compare bundled versus unbundled quotes effectively to ensure you're getting the best value without sacrificing essential protection. This isn't just about saving a buck; it's about smart financial management for your trucking business.

Trucker’s Essential Documents: Legal & Safety Checklist

This essential checklist is for every truck driver, whether you're an owner-operator, dump truck driver, or hotshot hauler. It details the crucial legal and safety documents you need to keep in your rig to avoid major headaches during roadside inspections and ensure you're always running compliant. From your CDL and medical certificate to IFTA, IRP, and commercial insurance proof, this guide ensures you're fully prepared for whatever the road throws your way. It's not just about avoiding fines; it's about operating your trucking business like a true professional, giving you the confidence and peace of mind that you’re always covered.

Trucker Folklore: Lucky Routes, Roads to Avoid & Your Business

Every trucker has a story, and this post delves into the rich folklore of the road, mapping out routes considered lucky and those best avoided. Discover why some drivers swear by the smooth sailing of I-80 through Nebraska or the unexpected blessings on US-60 in Arizona. Conversely, learn about the legends surrounding roads like the infamous US-491 (formerly Route 666) or the nerve-fraying I-95 in the Northeast, known for its congestion and challenges. Beyond mere superstitions, these tales form a vital part of the trucking community, fostering shared wisdom and camaraderie among drivers. This article highlights how these enduring legends underscore the importance of preparedness, emphasizing that while luck might be a factor, having the right insurance coverage provides real peace of mind, no matter where your journey takes you. Understand the culture and practical implications of these road myths.

Affordable Trucking Insurance: Save Without Losing Coverage

Struggling to find trucking insurance that doesn't break the bank but still gives you the coverage you need? This no-nonsense guide cuts through the confusion, offering ten practical steps to slash your premiums without compromising your protection. Learn how to identify essential coverages, leverage your safety record and in-cab tech for discounts, and compare quotes like a pro. We’ll show you how to manage your operational risks, work with a trucking insurance specialist, and make smart decisions on limits and deductibles to keep your cash flow healthy. Stop gambling with your livelihood and start saving on insurance today, ensuring your rig and your business are truly covered.

Trucker Tips: Beat Fatigue on Long Hauls & Stay Alert

Life on the road for independent truckers means pushing limits and logging countless miles, but staying alert isn't just a luxury—it's a critical aspect of survival. This post dives into practical, no-nonsense strategies designed specifically to combat fatigue on those grueling long hauls. We go beyond just relying on coffee, exploring smart, actionable ways to truly fuel your focus. Discover effective caffeine-free tricks like strategic power naps, rolling down the window for fresh air, and specific snacks that can reset your system. We also emphasize why planning and taking proper breaks is your best defense against drowsiness, ensuring you’re always a step ahead. Learn to drive smarter, not just harder, maintaining your edge and keeping yourself, your rig, and everyone else on the road safe and sound. These aren't just tips; they're essential habits for a successful and secure trucking career.

Trucker Holidays: Celebrate & Stay Connected on the Road

Being an independent truck driver means embracing the open road, but it can also mean being away from family during the holidays. This article offers practical, heartfelt advice for small trucking company owners and owner-operators navigating the festive season from their cab. Discover actionable tips to keep the holiday spirit alive, no matter where your route takes you. Learn how fellow truckers decorate their dashboards, leverage digital tools for family connections, and even find special holiday meals at truck stops. We also explore the strong sense of community among drivers, showing how shared moments on the road can make the holidays less lonely. This isn't just about coping; it's about celebrating the unique resilience and dedication that defines the trucking lifestyle, ensuring you stay connected and feel supported, even miles from home.

Truck Insurance Costs 2025: Rates & Savings for Truckers

Navigating the rising tide of commercial truck insurance costs in 2025 is a top concern for every owner-operator and small fleet manager. This essential guide cuts through the noise, giving you a clear picture of what to expect, with average annual premiums ranging from $11,000 to $17,000 for many. We break down the real factors influencing your rates, from your driving record and cargo type to your operating radius and even your state. More crucially, we arm you with practical, no-nonsense strategies to fight back against increasing premiums. Learn how a clean MVR, investments in safety technology, bundling policies, and smart renewal timing can directly translate into significant savings. Don't let insurance costs eat into your profits; this post provides the actionable insights you need to manage risk effectively and keep your rig on the road without breaking the bank.