If you own your own truck, you know that diesel fuel is one of your biggest expenses. While you can’t control the price of diesel fuel, savvy truckers know that limiting time spent idling can save thousands of dollars over the course of a year.
We talked recently with Paul N., a veteran trucker who keeps his idle rate to an impressive 1% on the road. Whether you are a Halvor Logistics carrier partner or trucking on your own, here are Paul’s tips for cutting down on gas so you can push your profits up.
Turn off the truck
This seems like a no-brainer, but Paul says he often parks near trucks that are idling when temperatures are very comfortable outside. Instead of relying on gasoline to regulate cab temperatures or charge/run equipment, he recommends that you:
Make full use of the truck’s batteries
After a day on the road, truck batteries carry enough charge to run your electronics, including bunk heaters, fans, microwaves, tables and TV sets. If they can’t, it’s probably time to check your batteries.
Enjoy the fresh air
If you don’t already have screens for your truck windows, now’s the time to pick some up. They are an inexpensive way to cool down your truck without turning on the A/C.
Use a bunk heater in cold weather
If your truck doesn’t have a bunk heater, consider getting one installed. It can help keep you toasty warm during the evening without running up your fuel bills.
Be vigilant – but flexible
While Paul works hard to maintain a 1% idle ration, he doesn’t sacrifice the things that are most important to him. “I turn the truck on every morning to make coffee,” he says. “I’m not going to do without that.”