April 2012 Volume 32, Issue 4 Delivering daily news to Canada’s trucking industry at www.trucknews.com
Stirling Truck Show cancelled
STIRLING, Ont. – Organizers of the Stirling Truck Show have announced the show will not go on this year. Originally scheduled for June 16-17, and held Father’s Day weekend over the past six years, the show has grown “too big” for volunteers to run and manage, announced Dave Potts, chair of the Stirling Truck Show Committee. “Regretfully, the time has come to terminate the show as it has become too large of an event for volunteers to run and manage,” Potts wrote in a notice on the show’s Web site. “So, the show in its present form is over for this year. Hopefully there will be a show of some proportion emerge from the ashes next year. The committee would truly like to thank all those who supported us over the years and the many who have become our friends.” The show was organized by the Stirling & District Lions Club, with proceeds directed towards community work. “We are extremely proud of being able to, through our Chosen Child program, send a family to Disneyland for six days and to raise the much needed money for two other families with children needing intensive medical care,” Potts said. He went on to thank the volunteers who donated “countless thousands” of hours to plan and host the event. “Without them, there would have not been a truck show,” he said. Ontario show-goers will still be able to attend the Fergus Truck Show, held July 27-29. n
Fairness,
TORONTO, Ont. – The province of Ontario has published proposed changes to the licence renewal process for senior A/Z licence-holders. Under the proposed changes: only commercial drivers between the ages of 65 and 79 who accumulate three or more demerit points or are involved in an at-fault collision will be required to take a practical road and air brake test; the written test will only be required every five years while between the ages of 65 and 79; and the air brake test cycle will be aligned with the written knowledge test cycle, requiring a practical air brake test only when a road test is required. An annual medical will still be required. The proposed changes will be extended to D licenceholders as well, meaning they will have to take a written test every five years between the ages of 65 and 79 and will also require a road test if they accrue three or more demerit points or are involved in an at-fault collision. The Ontario Trucking Association lauded the proposal. “MTO’s proposed amendment reflects a balanced, fair approach to resolving this matter,” said OTA president David Bradley. “We are very happy for the drivers and we commend Transportation Minister Bob Chiarelli for his leadership in taking up this issue and for bringing swift attention to it so early in his tenure.” Other highlights of the proposal include the retention of changes , P LU S made in recent years to stream: N O line the licensing process, I T REAC n’t go far including : the existing s do : s d n road test fee of $14 will te C h a ng e n co , OBAC h g u be retained; an automatic o n e Page 3 0 s y transmission can be used a s off,
at last, for Ontario’s senior drivers
?
Ontario proposes changes to A/Z licence renewal process for seniors
ab o u t t ime : Long-overdue changes to Ontario’s A/Z licence renewal rules will allow most safe seniors to forego the annual road test.
Modular moves
See page 15
Chronicling the journey of some oversized modular homes through Northern Quebec.
e paid Patienc Bradley: OTA’s Page 34
Continued on page 16
Inside This Issue...
• Looking for a deal:
In an exclusive interview, Celadon executives outlined their ambitious growth strategy for Canada, which involves buying up troubled trucking firms. Page 42
• Green trucks that work:
We have a full report from the Green Truck Summit, which boasted a record crowd of more than 750 delegates. Pages 53-58
Our mufflers are stronger, last longer and save you $$$!
• TMC Report:
Comprehensive coverage from the annual Technology & Maintenance Council meetings. Pages 59-64
• Taxes can be so taxing:
Mark Dalton finally opens an ominous letter from Canada Revenue Agency. Page 76
See our ad page 68 905-795-2838
To view List of Advertisers visit us at www.trucknews.com
Careers 46-64
Ad Index 69 PM40069240
pg 1, 16-17 tn apr v1.indd 1
12-03-13 2:02 PM
fl-fleet03a-truckwash_cmyk_Poster.tif IMAGES:
Bleed Size: 22 x 16.75 Close Date: 3.11.11
App: InDesign CS5 Colors: 4cp
For the Freightliner Trucks Dealer nearest you, call 1-800-FTL-HELP. FTL/MC-A-1002. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Copyright Š 2010. Daimlerr Trucks North America LLC. All rights reserved. Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.
Freightliner Trucks.indd 2 11063_FTC 5035 - Leadership Ad_CLOCK_TNews.indd 1
09/03/11 9:23 AM
THERE’S NO SUCH PLACE AS OFF THE CLOCK.
You have to be on and smart even on the days you’re too tired to be on and smart. That’s the business. At Freightliner, we’re here to make your tough job a little easier and a whole lot more profitable. We build the most fuel efficient trucks in the industry, so you can choose a Freightliner once and reap the rewards daily. FreightlinerTrucks.com/DriverSpotlight.
Freightliner Trucks.indd 3
09/03/11 9:23 AM 3/2/11 1:50 PM
Page 4 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
Historical Comparison – Jan 12 Sales Class 8 truck sales are off to a booming start in 2012. The 2,113 Class 8 trucks sold in the Canadian market this January is almost double the total of the previous January and ranks among the best starts to the year seen over the past decade. Only the industry record years of 2005 to 2007 were better. The sales total was also about 600 trucks over the five-year average, another improvement over the past year.
Monthly Class 8 Sales – Jan 12 OEM
This Month Last Year
Freightliner
625
317
International
355
257
Kenworth
439
173
Mack
118
73
Peterbilt
229
145
Volvo
179
105
Western Star
168
84
TOTALS
2113
1154
Historical Comparison – YTD Jan 12 Class 8 Sales (YTD Jan 12) by Province and OEM OEM
BC
ALTA
SASK
MAN
ONT
QUE
NB
NS
PEI
NF
Freightliner
45
50
5
50
345
85
19
26
0
0
CDA 625
Kenworth
58
222
14
11
54
72
8
0
0
0
439
Mack
9
25
9
2
52
17
1
1
0
2
118
International
26
51
7
13
134
92
16
4
0
12
355
Peterbilt
33
82
9
29
34
35
7
0
0
0
229
Volvo
12
16
4
12
84
46
5
0
0
0
179
Western Star
42
61
5
5
30
12
8
5
0
0
168
TOTALS
225
507
53
122
733
359
64
36
0
14
2,113
The Western provinces accounted for 43% of Class 8 sales in January, with Alberta leading the way. Ontario accounted for 35% of the month’s sales. The overall national numbers after the first month point towards a very strong year for Class 8 sales but can sales figures be expected to remain at such high levels? Our recent Transportation Buying Trends Survey, conducted in partnership with CITT and Cormark Securities, found that two-thirds of carriers are optimistic about 2012 but their focus remains on updating their fleets, not expanding them.
12 – Month Sales Trend
Market Share Class 8 – Jan 12 YTD
3,200 2,800 2,400 2,000 1,600 1,200 800 400 0 February
Sales
1,470
March
April
May
2,002 1,942 2,154
June
July
August
2,677
1,956
2,425
September October November December
1,873
2,606
2,663
2,511
January
2,113
January marked the fourth straight month of sales above the 2,000 mark, reminiscent of the industry’s capacity boom years of 2005 to 2007. Our Transportation Buying Trends Survey found that 46% of Canadian carriers expect to purchase new Class 8 trucks in 2012.
Freightliner, last year’s Canadian market leader, has jumped out to an early lead with 30% market share. Kenworth wrestled the number two spot away from International last year and has started the year off with a solid lead in that spot. International’s market share is at 17%, distantly followed by Peterbilt, Volvo and a surging Western Star.
company product
company product A
© 2012 Chevron Canada Limited. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC.
company product
A
company product A
A
Source: Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association
Chevron Global Lubricants.indd 4
Go with Delo and you’ve got a partner all the way.
12-03-13 2:12 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 5
www.glasvangreatdane.com 1.888.GLASVAN (452.7826)
April 2012, Volume 32, Issue 4
ISSN 0712-2683 (Print) ISSN 1923-3523 (Online) Truck News, USPS 016-248 is published monthly by BIG Magazines LP., a div. of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd. U.S. office of publication: 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304-5709. Periodicals Postage Paid at Niagara Falls, NY. U.S. Postmaster send address corrections to: Truck News, P.O. Box 1118, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Truck News is published 12 times a year by BIG Magazines LP, a leading Canadian information company with interests in daily and community newspapers and business-to-business information services. Creative Directors: Carolyn Brimer, Beverley Richards Circulation Manager: Mary Garufi V.P. Publishing: Alex Papanou President: Bruce Creighton
When you need more than just a box, go for the whole package.
Advertising Sales
Inquiries: Kathy Penner (416) 510-6892 2013 GREAT DANE 53’ HIGH CUBE REEFERS 53’, Hendrickson Air Ride, 11 R 22.5 Tires on Aluminum Wheels, Stainless Front & Rear, Duct and Flat Aluminum Floors, Logistic Track, LED Lights, Single Temp, Dual Temps, Tridems & Full Stainless Models available. Thermo King or Carrier units.
2013 GREAT DANE 53’ STAINLESS STEEL REEFERS 53’, Tandem Hendrickson Air Ride, Accu-Sheild Aluminum Wheels, Stainless Steel Front, Rear & Sides, Heavy Duty Duct Floor, PunctureGuard Interior with Cargo Track, PC Rated Broker Light Package, CorroGuard under carriage protection, Install Thermo King or Carrier Reefer Unit.
2013 GREAT DANE 53’ HIGH CUBE DRY VANS 53’, Hendrickson Air Ride, High Cube Interiors, We have the model to fit your needs. Choice of Interior Lining: Plywood, Damage Proof SSL, High Impact Polyethylene or Composite Plate Walls with Logistics Posts on 16”, 24” or 48” centres. Buy the trailer that’s right for you!!!
NEW AUTOCAR “XSPOTTER” SHUNT TRUCKS 200hp Cummins Diesel Engines, Allison RDS-3500 Transmission, Heavy Duty Meritor “Easy Steer” Front Axle with shocks, 30,000 rated rear axle with traction lock, 100,000 lb Hydraulic 5th Wheel, Extra Large 78” High Cab with High Visibility Package, Full Driver Comfort & Safety Package, Canadian Harsh Climate Package.
2013 GREAT DANE 53’ DUAL TEMP REEFERS 53’, Hendrickson Air Ride, 11 R 22.5 Bridgestone Tires on Aluminum Wheels, Stainless Steel Front & Rear, Heavy Duty Flat Aluminum Floor, PunctureGuard Interior Lining with Logistic Track, Interior Lights, CorroGuard Undercoating, Thermo King Spectrum SB Dual Temp Unit with movable cold wall.
NEW ETNYRE “FALCON” LIVE BOTTOM TRAILERS SPIF Tri-Axle and Quad-Axles Available, Extra wide 42” Belt with Speed Control and Optional Reversing Feature, Cross-Slat Free design with Heavy Duty 100,000lb Chain System, Full Weather Proof Tarps, Steeper Bin Walls for less product bridging. Heavy Duty, Reliable Design.
NEW LANDOLL 930 TILTING TAIL TRAILER 51’, Tandem Air Ride, 35 Ton Rated, Aluminum Outer Wheels, 20,000lb. Winch, Wireless Remote Control, Fully Hot Dipped Galvanized, Steel Traction Plate over tail section. Tail section is load bearing, so whole deck can be loaded.
NEW ETNYRE MECHANICAL DETACH TRAILER 35 Ton, 29’ Lower Deck Length, 16” Deck Height, Fully Covered Front & Rear Deck, Side Mounted Outriggers, Tandem Air Ride, Aluminum Wheels, LED Lights. Prepped for 3rd Axle Flip. Extendable Detach also available.
NEW CHAPARRAL 53’ TRIDEM DEEP DROP 53’, Tridem Air Ride, Aluminum Wheels, 35” Deck Height, Lightweight All Aluminum Design, Heavy Duty Drop Neck, Wide Load Lights, Chain Hooks, 14 Winches, Only 12,520 lbs!!! Doonan Tridem Beavertail trailers in Stock.
Kathy Penner
Rob Wilkins Publisher
Associate Publisher
rwilkins@trucknews.com
kpenner@trucknews.com
(416) 510-5123
Brenda Grant
National Account Sales
(416) 494-3333 bgrant@istar.ca
Doug Copeland
Regional Account Manager
(416) 510-6892
Don Besler
National Account Sales Manager
(416) 699-6966
donbesleris@rogers.com
Laura Moffatt Research Director
(416) 510-6889
dcopeland@trucknews.com
Editorial
NEW EQUIPMENT SALES TEAM: Adam Stevens | Tom Pepper | Jason Ker I Greg Pepper l Jason Dutton l Mike Hignett
USED EQUIPMENT SALES
MIKE HIGNETT T 905.625.5843 | mhignett@glasvangreatdane.com
2011 GREAT DANE 53’ HIGH CUBE REEFER
2002 GREAT DANE 53’ HIGH CUBE REEFERS
2005 GREAT DANE 53’ AIR RIDE DRY VAN
53’, Tandem Air Ride, 22.5 Tires on Aluminum Wheels, Stainless Steel Front & Rear, Duct Floor, PunctureGuard Lining, Logistic Track, High Cube Interior, Broker LED Light Package, Carrier 2100A Reefer unit with Chrome Package.
53’, Tandem Air Ride, 11 R 22.5 Tires, Steel Wheels, Aluminum Exterior, Swing Rear Doors, Aluminum Duct Floor, High Cube Interior, High Powered Carrier Ultima 53 Reefer units with under 10,000 hours. Certified.
53’, Tandem Air Ride, 22.5 Tires, Swing Rear Doors, White Aluminum Sides, Logistic Post Interior, Heavy Duty Scuff Liner, Aluminum Roof, 110” Inside Height. Also Available: 2005 Utility and Wabash Vans.
(5) 2001 GREAT DANE 53’ TRIDEM HEATERS
2011 GREAT DANE 53’ REEFER
2005 UTILITY 53’ AIR RIDE DRY VAN
53’, Tridem Spring Ride, 11 R 22.5 Tires, Steel Wheels, Insulated Side walls, Swing Rear Doors, Wood Floors, Damage resistant metal interior lining, Carrier Solara Diesel Heaters with Low Hours.
53’, Tandem Air Ride, 11 R 22.5 Tires, Aluminum Outer Wheels, Stainless Steel Rear Swing Doors, Transtex MFS Side Skirts, Duct Floor, Interior Logistic Posts, LED Lights, Thermo King SB-210+ with 4,000 hours.
53’, Tandem Air Ride, 22.5 Tires, Swing Rear Doors, Stainless Steel Rear Frame, White Aluminum Sides, Logistic Post Interior, Heavy Duty Scuff Liner, Aluminum Roof, 110” Inside Height. Also Available: 2005 Great Dane and Wabash Vans.
2010 TROUT RIVER TRI-AXLE LIVE BOTTOM
(2) 2008 GREAT DANE 36’ MULTI-TEMP REEFERS
(7) 2008 OTTAWA & CAPACITY SHUNT TRUCKS
39’, SPIF Tri-Axle (Tandem Air Ride with Steer Axle), 11 R 22.5 Tires, Steel Wheels, 39” Wide Belt, Electric Tarp, Bin Liner, Flip Up Hi-Lift Door, Reversing Belt, Spray Tank. Certified.
36’, Tandem Air Ride, Roll Up Rear Door, (1) Curb Side Door, Heavy Duty Flat Aluminum Floor, (3) Rows of Logistic Track, Interior Lights, (1) Movable Coldwall, Maxon 3,500lb Rail Lift, Thermo King Super II Spectrum Multi-Temp Reefer.
Cummins 200hp Diesel Engine, Allison Automatic Transmission, 12/30 Axles, Traction Control, Hydraulic 5th Wheel, Automatic Greasing System, Road Legal Model, Well Maintained. Capacity’s feature Dura-Ride Suspension.
Inquiries: James Menzies (416) 510-6896
Adam Ledlow
Managing Editor adam@ TransportationMedia.ca
John G. Smith
Technical Correspondent wordsmithmedia@rogers.com
Julia Kuzeljevich
Contributing Editor
(416) 510-6880
julia@ TransportationMedia.ca
Brad Ling
Video Production Manager
Subscription inquiries
Anita Singh (416) 442-5600 (Ext. 3553) From time to time, we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or services may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact our privacy officer via one of the following methods: Phone: 1-800-668-2374 Fax: (416) 442-2191 E-mail: jhunter@bizinfogroup.ca Mail: Privacy Officer. Business Information Group, 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT: TRUCK NEWS, 80 VALLEYBROOK DRIVE, TORONTO, ON M3B 2S9 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069240
1.888.GLASVAN (452.7826) NEW EQUIPMENT 905.625.8441
USED EQUIPMENT 905.625.5843
MISSISSAUGA We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
pg 5 tn apr v3.indd 5
www.glasvangreatdane.com PARTS 905.625.8812
SERVICE 905.625.8448
WHITBY
ALLISTON
PUTNAM
Sales, Parts, Repair Centre 1201 Aimco Blvd. Mississauga, Ontario L4W 1B3
Truck Centre 5151 Everest Dr. Unit 7 & 8 Mississauga, Ontario L4W 2Z3
Parts & Repair Centre 1025 Hopkins Street Whitby, Ontario L1N 2C2
Parts & Repair Centre 4917 C.W. Leach Road Alliston, Ontario L9R 2B1
Parts & Repair Centre 3378 Putnam Road RR #1 Putnam, Ontario N0L 1B0
T 905.625.8441 F 905.625.9787
T 905.625.8441 F 905.629.4911
T 905.430.1262 F 905.430.0914
T 705.434.1423 F 905.434.0125
T 519.269.9970 F 519.269.3327
12-03-12 3:46 PM
Page 6 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
The end of the trucking tycoon? I was in Indianapolis in early March, covering the Green Truck Summit, when I checked my voicemail and found a message from Steve Russell, chairman and founder of Indianapolis-based Celadon Trucking. He wanted to talk about the company’s ambitious growth plan for Canada (see pg. 42) and the fact I was in his backyard struck us both as far too coincidental to ignore. I hopped in a taxi and headed over to see Russell and ended up spending the better part of the afternoon with him, discussing a wide range of topics. One of the things that’s been on my mind lately is the fact there seem to be few opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs to build a trucking company in this current regulatory environment. If you look at the major players today, few were created in the last decade or two and many pre-date deregulation. Opportunities still exist, particularly in underserved niche markets, but the odds are stacked against anyone launching a start-up trucking firm. It’s often been said that the barriers to entry have become more substantial in recent years. I tend to disagree with that. It’s still easy enough to buy a used truck and find some freight to haul. The barriers to entry haven’t changed substantially, but in my view, what has
Editorial Comment James Menzies
changed is the barriers to success have gotten far more difficult to overcome. Trucking companies today face an overwhelming list of societal, human and compliance requirements that didn’t exist in the past. At the same time, costs have risen and as a result, trucking operators no longer have any margin for error. Think about this for a second: a small fleet or one-truck operator that’s involved in an accident will need to generate $200,000 in revenue to cover the $10,000 insurance deductible, assuming they’re running a margin of 5%. Good luck with that. Another limiting factor when it comes to growth for a small company is the cost of new equipment. Russell grabbed a pen and paper and scribbled out for me the new trade-in formula: In 2006, he pointed out, a new truck cost $95,000 and a three-year-old truck was worth $50,000, so a company looking to upgrade would require a loan of $45,000, which was easy to get. Today, a new truck costs $125,000 and a threeyear-old truck is worth $50,000, so the
Something to chew on If there is one thing certain about our industry it’s that the people that are its lifeblood are not getting any younger. In fact, the average age in our industry is older than the national average. What should perhaps be of even greater concern, however, is that as we get older we are also not getting healthier. As was pointed out at a seminar I attended at the recent Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) convention, a staggering 86% of truck drivers in the US are overweight or obese, which is considerably higher than the national average of 66% (a shocking statistic in itself). I don’t have Canadian statistics to share with you but I doubt our stats would be significantly better. I debated whether to write this col-
The view with Lou Lou Smyrlis
umn. The rules I was brought up under basically said a person’s weight was nobody’s business but his own. And in these days of “political correctness” we are, and should be, sensitive to how our words affect others in the workplace. But does it make sense to continue keeping quiet when the numbers being revealed point to such a colossal issue? Did you know that being overweight and obese is linked to more than 60 medical disorders, including 12 types of cancer? For example, more than 90% of the obese
Did you know? How Canadian shippers feel about surcharges Surcharges have been in place for more than a decade to help the transportation industry deal with the persistent variability in the price of fuel. Carriers need a way to pass sudden and unpredictable extra costs along to their customers. Failure to have surcharges in place at the start of the previous decade was a major factor in causing the demise of one quarter of the small carrier base in Canada. Using surcharges is a practical solution that gets the job done, however the latest Shipper Pulse Survey shows that shippers are growing uncomfortable with the process. The Shipper Pulse Sur-
pg 6 tn apr v3.indd 6
company requires a $75,000 loan and nobody will write it. Fleets hang onto trucks longer and then find themselves with a seven-yearold truck worth $20,000 and need a $100,000 mortgage to upgrade to a new truck. The only option for many smaller companies is to start trading in two or three older trucks for one new truck and suddenly a 180-truck company becomes a 150-truck company and so on. How do you grow a fleet under those conditions? I asked Russell if he’d be able to replicate his success growing Celadon in today’s environment? He started Celadon in 1985 by leasing 50 trucks at a cost of about $30,000, which by today’s standards would equate to maybe $200,000. Today, he said, to start a trucking company with 50 units, you’d need at least $3-$4 million just to get started. Who, in their right mind, would make such a significant investment for such meager returns? I think of all the trucking companies today, and how most were built upon a similar foundation: one guy with a truck, a vision and a truckload of ambition. I found it somewhat sad that the same opportunities don’t exist today and may never exist again. The glory days of trucking seem to have passed,
which to me was a melancholic realization. Russell was less sentimental in his outlook. Look at Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, he said. He started from scratch and is worth $20 billion. There are still opportunities to build something substantial from nothing and to become incredibly wealthy, he said. “But as an asset-based trucking company? Not a prayer.” n
have Type 2 diabetes. As Linda Moran, director of business development at the Lindora Clinic pointed out at the TCA convention: “We have all been asleep at the wheel to allow this to happen.” Moran said it’s estimated that 70% of all health care costs are caused by unhealthy behaviours. Eating right is a particularly challenging task for drivers, thanks to the many fast food outlets available along the major highways and the huge portions being served at many truck stops. Many of the overweight and obese are embarrassed about their condition and have no clear understanding about how to change, according to Moran’s colleague, Ann Marie Coppen, PhD. But they have a desire to change and that’s a perfect starting point. Lindora has worked with carriers such as Celadon, Knight Transportation and most recently Bison Trans-
port and Brian Kurtz Trucking in Canada to help their employees manage their weight and employ healthy eating and exercise practices into their life over the long term. Lindora is also working with the TCA in its Weight Loss Showdown, which has 11 carriers across North America competing with each other to improve the health of their employees. Reducing body weight by just 10% can yield significant health benefits and lead to people no longer needing to be on blood pressure or cholesterol medication. Does it make sense to continue ignoring this issue when the answer is so simple? n
– James Menzies can be reached by phone at (416) 510-6896 or by e-mail at jmenzies@trucknews.com. You can also follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/JamesMenzies.
– Lou Smyrlis can be reached by phone at (416) 510- 6881 or by e-mail at lou@TransportationMedia.ca. You can also follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/LouSmyrlis.
Shipper opinions about fuel surcharges Fuel surcharges are necessary as long as fuel costs continue to be highly volatile
Carriers generally apply fuel surcharges correctly
45.6 % agree
Fuel surcharges are a way for carriers to squeeze additional revenues from their customers and improve their profits
61.1 % agree
Carriers should adjust their freight charges to market rates that include fuel surcharges and as a result simplify their billings
0%
10%
20%
vey is conducted by the Canadian Industrial Transportation Association this year in partnership with our sister publication Canadian Transportation & Logistics. The survey asks shippers for their opinions about fuel surcharges and we were surprised by the large number of shippers who were unhappy with how things work. In
30%
68.5% agree
40%
55.6 % agree
50%
the first question, while two-thirds of the group agree that fuel surcharges are necessary, just under 30% disagree. In the second question, just over half of the replies with an opinion disagreed that carriers generally apply fuel surcharges correctly. In the third question, more than 60% of the group see fuel surcharges as a
60%
70%
80%
source of profits for their carriers, rather than as a neutral cost pass through. Finally, more than half of the group thinks carriers should move to market rates that include fuel surcharges. n
12-03-13 12:11 PM
April 2012
contents
?
Question of the month Have summer truck shows run their course? page 78 Mark Dalton in...
Taxes can be so taxing
TRUCK NEWS Page 7
in brief
Introducing Tax Talk: An informational video series for O/Os and small fleets TORONTO, Ont. – Trucknews.com has produced a six-part video series called Tax Talk, featuring tax and finance advice for owner/operators and small fleets from Scott Taylor, vice-president of Transport Financial Service and a 25-year trucking tax advisor. The series, available for free in the Learning Centre window on Trucknews.com and also at Trucknews.com/videos, is sponsored by Michelin and based on Taylor’s popular Tax Talk column in Truck News and Truck West magazines. The videos each run about seven to nine minutes in length and cover topics crucial to the financial success of owner/operators and managers of small fleets. In Part 1, Taylor discusses the issue of incorporation. “The question of incorporating has been around for owner/oper-
ators in trucking for many years, and a big part of that is taxes,” he tells Truck News editor James Menzies in the first installment. “Revenue Canada is changing its focus on meals. For years, sole proprietors were allowed to, like drivers, use their logbooks for meal claims. Revenue Canada has decided that’s no longer going to be allowed. The way to get around that for an owner/operator is to incorporate and then you are also an employee of the corporation when driving the truck and using the logbook is a perfectly legitimate way to claim meals.” Taylor noted the recent changes at Revenue Canada have made incorporating much more compelling for O/Os who want to maximize their meal tax refunds. “In all these years I’ve done this, no one has ever brought into me thousands of dollars in meal
receipts – it just doesn’t happen,” he said. “So when you’re looking at $17/meal, three times a day at 80% now, that’s a lot of money you could be deducting and saving taxes on.” Sole proprietor owner/operators who don’t keep all their receipts could be leaving money on the table, Taylor warned. Part 2, dubbed Independent Thinking, explores the issue of how O/Os are determined to be employees or independent operators. Part 3, also available now, features best practices for record keeping. And Part 4, Keeping it Straight, shares tips on how to separate personal and work-related expenses. The sixpart series is updated weekly at Trucknews.com and then archived on the Web site’s video page at Trucknews.com/videos. n
Part 1
page 76
departments
Hyva the World leader in Telescopic Cylinders For over 30 years Hyva has proven it’s durability and unique features such as higher pressures, quicker cycle times, more lifting capacity and ease of maintenance. Let us do the lifting for you!
n ew pr o d u c t s : Great Dane has revamped its entire trailer line. Pages 72-74
Truck Sales 4 Opinions 6 7 In Brief Border 8-11 Canada 13 East 14 Quebec 15 16-18 Ontario West 21-22 Al Goodhall, Over the Road 24 Mark Lee, Opinion 26 Scott Taylor, Tax Talk 29 Opinion, Voice of the O/O 30 Bruce Richards, Industry 32 David Bradley, Industry 34 Chris Singh, Health 35 Karen Bowen, Health 36 Ask the Expert 38 Bill Cameron, Opinion 40 Fleet News 42-46 Load Securement 48-51 53-58 Green Truck Summit TMC Coverage 59-63 OEM/Dealer News 65-71 People 74 Profitability Dashboard 75 Rob Wilkins, Opinion 77
pg 7 tn apr v3.indd 7
Montreal, Toronto, Edmonton
Dealer enquiries Welcomed
HYVA Corporation Tel.: 1-630-227-9020
www.hyva.com 12-03-13 2:11 PM
Page 8 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
border
Energy independence must be part of US economic growth plan, Jeb Bush tells TCA By Lou Smyrlis KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Committing to energy independence is key to the long-term revival of the US economy, former Florida governor Jeb Bush, told delegates attending the 74th annual Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) convention. It is one of four pillars necessary to bring about the “profound change” Bush believes is necessary to deal with the “dysfunctional elements” of the US economy revealed by the Great Recession, which started in 2008 and has been followed by a slow recovery. The other pillars include a pro-growth immigration policy, outcomes-based regulation reform and a transformation of the education system. “We can turn our country’s decline around by focusing on longterm growth. But it will take profound changes,” Bush said. “The power of compounding can be our friend if we do a lot of the right things. But if we do nothing, it can be our enemy.” He added that while US growth is currently forecast at around 1.5-2% over the next decade, if policies were put in place to boost that growth to 4%, the additional $3.8 trillion of economic activity added by the tenth year would be larger than the current GDP of Germany. “Wealth doesn’t come from safe streets and good schools. Wealth creates safe streets and good schools. We have to restore our free market
system so that it’s safe for anyone to start a business,” Bush said. The first issue that must be addressed is US dependence on foreign oil, according to Bush, arguing that history shows great countries can only depend on foreign sources of energy for so long before the dependence leads to decline. “If we could cut our energy imports by half, we could be putting $150 billion into our own economy rather than subsidizing regimes that destabilize the world,” he reasoned. He pointed to natural gas in particular as a growing energy source that is easily available within North America, calling for incentives for people and business to convert to natural gas use. He also said the Arctic Wildlife Reserve should be opened up to energy exploration. He also called for an immigration policy that is “faithful to our heritage,” arguing that “it’s in our (US) DNA to absorb people from all over the world.” He said the US should open its doors to “aspirational, hard working people” – for example, highly educated, high achievers – and get tougher on those who come to the US illegally. He added that 20% of illegal immigrants to the US actually come with a legal visa and stay beyond the visa’s expiration because the US is not doing a good enough job of tracking them down and exporting them. For the US economy to grow at an
j eb b u s h
annual rate of 4%, it will require a 2% growth in its population, he said. American business is suffering from “insidious uncertainty” over the direction of regulation, which keeps business from investing, Bush said in making the case for legislative reform based on outcomes. “There is no shame in saying I want to be as wealthy as possible through hard work. We need to celebrate every time someone starts a new business in this country, not rush to regulate it,” Bush said. He said the US Congress should require a cost-benefit analysis be done before any legislation is drafted and also called for a sunset clause for antiquated legislation. He also called on Americans to look themselves in the mirror when it comes to pushing their politicians for legislation. He said that restoration of
personal responsibility would lessen demands on politicians to do something about every unfortunate event. “It’s time for us to realize that life is not always going to be perfect,” he said. The final pillar of Bush’s plan to revitalize the US economy involves transforming the US education system, the quality of which he said is dropping behind other industrialized nations. “We have lost our way on education,” he said. He called for reform along the lines of what he put in place in Florida while he was governor of that state and saw its high school graduation rate improve every year after being the worst in the country. He said there should be pay for performance for teachers and a rethinking of tenure combined with “high expectations for students, no excuses and consequences for mediocrity.” Bush also had a fair bit to say about how to best deal with the deficit, the seriousness of which he believed both major US parties were underestimating. “The only way to attack the deficit is to say everything is on the table,” Bush said, arguing that could include raising the retirement age. He also said Europe’s austerity measures, or “eat your broccoli” approach won’t work because it doesn’t also focus on growth. “Without growth this stuff doesn’t work,” he said. n
2nd
Generation 30%
less power consumption
Optional Ultimate In-Cab Heating System for YEAR ROUND COMFORT.
Allows auxiliary battery to assist starting battery for guaranteed starting.
Provides 115Vac / 12Vdc / charges auxiliary battery.
C.A.R.B. Approved
Manwin Enterprises Ayr, Ont 888.823.7611 manwin@bellnet.ca
pg 8 tn apr v3.indd 8
Wilson Instruments Campbellford, Ont 877.467.4440 wilsoninstruments@sympatico.ca
Smartway Verified Technology
Niagara Service & Supply Stoney Creek, Ont 800.268.5076 sales@niagaraservice.com
ITS Distributing Lakefield, Ont 877.322.7283 info@its-distributing.com
12-03-09 1:48 PM
ACTION
TORONTO
2332 DREW RD., MISSISSAUGA, ONT. L5S 1B8 Call: Murphy Barton, Vince Cutrara, Bruce Gair, Rob Moorehouse, Todd Warren, John Gwynne
905-678-1444
TRAILER SALES
Fax (905) 678-1566
MONTREAL
www.actiontrailersales.com
1100 RUE COURVAL, LACHINE, QUEBEC H8T 3P5 Call: Yvon Fortin, Mario Perrino, Michel Pouliot
New And Used Sales
514-633-5377 Fax (514) 633-6488
Rentals
TANDEMS/TRIDEMS • AIR RIDE
Long Term Finance Lease
ALUMINUM COMBO FLATS
Full Maintenance Lease Full Service Trailer & Reefer Shops Providing Maintenance And Parts
DROP DECKS
Over 200 Used Reefers In Our Yard . . . Ready To Roll!! UTILITY 53' x 102" x 13'6" Dry Freight Vans 13,180 Lbs. 110" Door Opening
“LATE MODEL TRADES”
UTILITY 3000R
hendrickson Air Ride Suspension, Logistic Side Posts – Alum. or Translucent Roof availABLE, Stainless rear Door Case, 12" corrugated steel Scuff Liner, 24" steel Threshold Plate. Priced Right!
53' x 102" High Cube Reefers, 1071⁄2" I.H. Front, 1091⁄2" I.H. Rear, 981⁄2" I.W. Recessed “E” Track, H.D. Duct Floor, Stainless Front & Rear, Vents, LED Lites – Weight 12.155 LBS. (Standard Model) H.D. Intraax Air Ride Susp. Alum. Wheels.
IN STOCK AND ARRIVING DAILY
(40) 2006/07 UTILITY 53' REEFERS
2008 UTILITY 48' ALUMINUM COMBO FLAT WITH CONESTOGA TARP KIT
hendrickson air ride suspension on 10' spread, michelin xte tires on aluminum wheels, 2 aluminum storage boxes 2' x 2' x 5', 20 WINCHES AND STRAPS IN SLIDING TRACK LIKE NEW CONDITION.
STAINLESS STEEL FRONT AND REAR, VENTS, “E” TRACK, H.D. ALUM. FLAT FLOOR, 46k HENDRICKSON SUSPENSION, CARRIER XTC STEALTH UNITS.
“REFRIGERATED STORAGE VANS” – SALE OR RENT
(3) NEW FULL STAINLESS 53' REEFER BOXES
(1) 2003 UTILITY 53' REEFER
(1) 2005 WABASH 53' REEFER
Several 48' and 53' Reefer trailers equipped with all electric refrigeration units, both overhead and swing rear doors available.
Extra light pkg., stainless wing plates, Hendrickson 46K air ride suspension, aluminum wheels, Michelin XT1 tires, duct floor, 1 row of recessed “E” track, loaded.
Thermo King SB200, Pre-painted black side panels, stainless radius corners, front panels, wing plates, rear doors & door case, front and rear vents, 1 row of recessed “E” track, Hendrickson air ride suspension, aluminum wheels.
Thermo King SB300 unit, air ride suspension, aluminum wheels, front & rear vents, stainless radius corners and rear doors, 1 row of recessed "E" track, clean trailer.
(6) “NEW” 53' UTILITY REEFER BOXES PRE-PAINTED BLACK SIDE PANELS
(1) 2006 GREAT DANE 53' REEFER
AIR FREIGHT HAULERS
(1) 2007 UTILITY 53' ROLLER BED VAN
Ancra Retract-A-Roll System, 6 tracks, Hendrickson air ride suspension, translucent roof, logistic posts, 11:22.5 tires 80% original, good clean condition.
Action Trailer Sales.indd 1
(1) 2004 GREAT DANE 53' REEFER
Carrier Stealth XTC unit, stainless radius corners, wing plates, rear doors, & rear door case, front and rear vents, heavy duty flat floor, 1 row recessed “E” track, Hendrickson air ride suspension, aluminum wheels.
Stainless front panels, radius corners, wing plates, and rear doors, front and rear vents, Hendrickson air ride suspension, Durabright aluminum wheels, 16" aluminum scuff liner, 1 row recessed "E" track, extra light pkg. heavy duty duct floor......loaded!!!
Thermo King SB310, high cube, flat aluminum floor, stainless radius corners and rear doors, Hendrickson air ride suspension.
12/03/12 11:01 AM
Page 10 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
border
Choose Your Insurance Broker
It’s an Important Choice We have insurance plans designed especially for the trucking industry.
Call or email us today! info@nationaltruckleague.com
1.800.265.6509
www.nationaltruckleague.com
Visit us at Truck World booth #1044
• WSIB Alternative • Travel Medical Emergency • Accident Downtime • Accident Business Expense • Health & Dental
TCA chair Salisbury says: ‘Put up or shut up’
By Lou Smyrlis KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The trucking industry must work to drastically improve its image if it expects to deal with a more favourable legislative environment, Gary Salisbury, chairman of the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) told delegates attending the association’s 74th annual convention. “We must start becoming the industry and the association of ‘yes’,” said the colourful Salisbury, who is also president and CEO of Fikes Truck Line. “We have to be proactive, whether it’s EOBRs or hours of work legislation,” he added, suggesting if the industry doesn’t like a particular legislative change it must be proactive in suggesting alternatives. Being an industry or association that takes a negative position on issues is not an effective approach, he said, and questioned why an industry that can be so innovative when dealing with shipment-related challenges seems to “go stupid” when faced with issues in its own backyard. “It’s time for this industry to put up or shut up. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work,” Salisbury encouraged the packed hall of motor carrier executives. One area that requires immediate attention is TCA’s image campaign, which has so far raised only $80,000 towards its goal of $250,000. Salisbury, who began his career as an owner/operator, and in the 30 years since then has worked in almost every aspect of the industry, including sales, dispatch and management, encouraged fleet owners to get a first-hand look at how policies and regulations being implemented are affecting drivers. Get your CDL and go on the road yourself or ride along with your drivers, he urged. “Understand your drivers. These are the guys who are making your living…You have people implementing rules who know absolutely nothing about trucking,” he said. n
www.glasvangreatdane.com 1.888.GLASVAN (1.888.452.7826)
3 models IN STOCK
BETTER EQUIPMENT. BETTER SERVICE.™
ma n d at o r y t es t in g : Medical examiners in the US may soon be advised to refer CDL-holders with a body mass index of 35 or higher for sleep apnea screening.
BMI of over 35 will require OSA screening: FMCSA
Meet the toughest lineup in the industry When it comes to dry van trailers, nobody gives you better equipment – or better choice – than Glasvan Great Dane. SSL durable, steel-lined post-and-panel construction: 16”/24” logistic options P-Series plywood-lined traditional sheet-and-post 12”/16”/24” logistic options Classic the most options for the most custom applications P-101 standard on 12”/16” logistic centres with a durable, poly-interior liner Composite Plate 24”/48” logistic centres and proven plate wall construction up to 20% stiffer and stronger • i-Van insulated panel press-built side wall for product-temperature integrity • • • • •
• • • • •
Up to 180 lbs. more steel in the rear-frame construction for dock impact. Available in single, 2, 3 and 4 axles for up to 95,000 GVWR. Interior liner options for durability, product integrity and weight savings. Anti-corrosion packages to protect your investment. Rackbuster interior protection for extreme high-cycle loads.
Come see them at one of our five Southern Ontario locations. Or visit us online at www.glasvangreatdane.com, or call toll-free: 1-888-GLASVAN (452.7826).
pg 10-11 tn apr v3.indd 10
By James Menzies TAMPA, Fla. – A senior official with the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has confirmed the agency will likely use a body mass index (BMI) of 35 as the threshold for mandatory sleep apnea screening for commercial driver’s licence holders. Jack Vansteenburg, assistant administrator and chief safety officer with the FMCSA, revealed at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings that a notice will be published “within the next several months.” He noted 40,000 medical examiners in the US will receive the notice and will begin sending drivers for sleep apnea screening. The 35 BMI threshold was taken from a recent Medical Review Board recommendation. “Age, neck size, crash history, gender and hypertension will come into play, but alone, the 35 BMI driver will be recommended to go for an initial screening,” Vansteenburg said. Tom DiSalvi, director of loss prevention at Schneider National, said during the same panel discussion that “In our own fleet, 23% of our associates have a BMI of 35 of greater and 60% of that population has at least moderate sleep apnea; it’s going to be a big number.” n
12-03-12 1:49 PM
April 2012
ATA, safety groups both sue over HoS WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Trucking Associations (ATA), not surprisingly, has announced it will challenge the “flawed” US hours-of-service rule that will place greater restrictions on drivers. Shortly after, safety groups that lobbied for the changes in the first place also filed suit, claiming the revisions don’t go far enough. The ATA, for its part, announced it has filed a petition with the US Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, asking the court to review the FMCSA’s recently published final rule. “We regret that FMCSA and the Obama administration have put ATA and its member companies in a position to take this legal action,” said ATA president and CEO Bill Graves. “The rules that have been in place since 2004 have contributed to unprecedented improvement in highway safety. The law is clear about what steps FMCSA must undertake to change the rules and we cannot allow this rulemaking, which was fueled by changed assumptions and analyses that do not meet the required legal standards, to remain unchallenged.” The ATA went on to say the FMCSA’s own analyses show that the costs created by the new rules outweigh any benefits, which are “overstated” to begin with. “We need this issue to be resolved in a credible manner, taking into account the undisputed crash reduction since 2004, so we can focus limited government and industry resources on safety initiatives that will have a far greater impact on highway safety,” Graves said. Meanwhile, self-described safety groups including Public Citizen, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety and the Truck Safety Coalition also announced they are suing the FMCSA over the new rules. While the ATA contends the revisions were unnecessary and will do nothing to improve highway safety, the safety organizations said the rules did not go far enough and chastised the FMCSA for retaining the 11-hour driving day. “Given the FMCSA’s mission to prevent truck-related deaths and injuries, it is appalling that the agency issued yet another rule that fails to adequately address truck driver fatigue and puts the public’s safety at risk,” said Henry Jasny, vice-president and general counsel, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “Unfortunately, industry pressure trumped public safety,” added Daphne Izer, founder of Parents Against Tired Truckers (PATT), part of the Truck Safety Coalition. Speaking at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings last month, Jack Vansteenburg, assistant administrator and chief safety officer with the FMCSA, defended the rules, suggesting the fact neither side of the debate was happy indicates fairness in the rule. “I think it’s an ideal rule,” he said. n
pg 10-11 tn apr v3.indd 11
Barrie 20 George St. Hwy 400 exit Dunlop (705) 737-1345
Guelph R.R.#3 Hwy 401 Exit 299 (519) 763-7630
Brockville 1000 Oxford Ave. Hwy 401 Exit 698 (613) 345-1419
Hamilton 562 Parkdale Ave. QEW Exit Burlington St. (905) 544-9631
Belleville 902 A & B Wallbridge Hwy 401 Exit 538 (613) 771-0707
Mississauga 2310 Anson Drive Derry Rd. & Torbram Rd. (905) 673-0248
Cambridge 370 Industrial Road Hwy 401 & 24 South (519) 650-0788
Ottawa West 1871 Merivale Road (613) 224-0224
Concord 261 Bowes Road Keele & Hwy 7 (905) 669-9460 Cornwall 1901 McConnell Ave. (at the Fifth Wheel) Hwy 401 Exit 792 (613) 932-9060
Ottawa East 2020 Bantree Road (613) 745-1991 Peterborough 785 The Kingsway (705) 876-4646 Windsor 2600 Howard Avenue (519) 969-9880
Kingston 255 Binnington Court Hwy 401 Exit 615 (613) 548-8488
Looking for a Cost-Effective Tire Replacement? RETREADINg IS THE ANSWER.
DID YOU KNOW? The lowest possible cost-per-mile is achieved with a good tire management program that includes the use of quality retreads. Retreads are also environmentally friendly. Tires are basically petrochemical products. It takes approximately 22 gallons of oil to manufacture one new truck tire. Most of the oil is found in the casing, which is reused in the retreading process. As a result, it takes only approximately 7 gallons of oil to produce a retread. Wide based truck tires save even more fuel.
Benson Tire is committed to the highest quality of retreading. Stop by one of our locations today and let us show you how we can save you money.
24 Hour Mobile Service Available! Contact 1-866-6BENSON
Belleville 902 A & B Wallbridge (Ten Acre Truck Stop) Hwy 401 Exit 538 (613) 771-0707 Kingston 255 Binnington Court Hwy 401 Exit 615 (613) 548-8228
Truck & Trailer SpecialiSTS
Brockville 1000 Oxford Ave. Hwy 401 Exit 698 (613) 342-2267 Cornwall 1901 McConnell (at the Fifth Wheel) Hwy 401 Exit 792 (613) 932-9060 Ottawa 2020 Bantree St. (613) 741-0878 Concord 261 Bowes Rd. (905) 532-9900
We’re fast... But We don’t rush!
12-03-12 1:49 PM
20 th
A
r s e ary v i n n
Your
One Stop Shop for All Your
Temperature Controlled Needs
try Indust! Firs 6500 Single temp/6600 Multi temp
Hybrid Reefer Technology
n Minimize Fuel Consumption! n Minimize Maintenance Costs with Reduced Reefer Parts! n Maintenance Contracts Available at Outstanding Rates!
Hybrid Diesel-Electric n Saves fuel n Sleep air and heating n 10,000 BTU/hr n Your solution to sleep apnea
n All electric n Battery-powered APU n Start assist n 6150 BTU cooling
Join The Fight Against Women’s Cancer Reefer Sales & Service is a proud sponsor of the Fight Against Women’s Cancer and for every pink ITW bulkhead purchased through us, we’ll make a donation to the Cancer Fund on behalf of the purchaser. Call your sales representative for details. ITW is one of North America’s leading suppliers of Quick Release Return Air Bulkheads and Reefer Sales & Service is their exclusive dealer in Canada.
The Duromax Plastic Return Air Bulkhead
n has the industry’s best air flow n allows immediate access to the refrigeration unit n measures 70” Height x 86” Width x 4 1/2” Depth n has a weight of 47 lbs.
Visit us at Truck World 2012 April 19-21 in Toronto at The International Centre.
Check out our New Website! www.reefersales.com Reefer Sales and Service 425 Gibraltar Drive Mississauga, ON L5T 2S9 (905) 795-0234 Fax (905) 795-0018
Reefer Sales.indd 1
Atlantic Carrier Transicold Reefer Sales and Service 295 MacNaughton Ave. Moncton, NB E1H 2S7 (506) 388-6000 Fax (506) 388-6001
624 Arvin Ave. Stoney Creek, ON L8E 5P1 (905) 643-0199 Fax (905) 643-0089
We’ll be in
Booth #3205
12-01-17 12:42 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 13
canada
Livestock haulers raise the bar for animal transport By Tyler Davie TORONTO, Ont. – Fewer Canadians are growing up on farms and a smaller portion of the province’s truck drivers is coming from that background and with that skill set. As a result, a smaller pool of people experienced in handling animals is available to properly transport livestock. The Ontario Trucking Association Livestock Transporters’ Division (OTA-LTD) is trying to develop a training program to ensure drivers know all they need to know about animal behaviour and to raise standards across the entire supply chain, says Deanna Pagnan, director of policy and government relations at OTA. “For this to work, it’s not going to just involve the transporters in training, it’s going to require the plant and the processors verifying, and even their end customers demanding it as well,” she says. “It’s a big campaign, but if we could have it by 2013 I would be happy.” But the most important part of any training program is for drivers to understand the best interest and welfare of the animals, says Randy Scott, OTA-LTD chairman and Hyndman Transport livestock dispatcher. “A driver can’t go into a curve at 60 mph when they’ve got a load of cattle on,” Scott says. “The cattle will move in the trailer.” To emphasize this point, Scott says drivers can picture a man back there. “The guy in the back is hanging on for dear life because he can’t go into that curve at that speed and the force will shift him to the one side.” This level of empathy with the animals should translate to all parts of the trip from loading to driving to unloading, says Scott. An animal under stress or pain shouldn’t be loaded in the first place, and if found to be sick or injured during the journey, offloaded to a veterinarian as soon as possible. “My driver is not a licensed vet,” he says. “If the vet says that animal’s okay, we can put her in a special compartment with lots of bedding. Otherwise, I don’t want her on the truck, because it’s going to hurt her more than she’s already hurting.” Not transporting animals stressed by injury or fatigue is one of the most fundamental Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulations. Scott says CFIA has been very active enforcing this regulation in recent years compared to before, and the message has been sent very strongly to drivers and producers. If a truck is inspected and found with a stressed animal loaded from a production facility, the transporter and not the producer will be fined. Although there’s no government standard of training, CFIA’s regulations would be covered in the program, says Pagnan. It could be based online with video, tailored to the species hauled by the transporters, and use the same database system as the Long Combination Vehicle (LCV) program. Certification and standards would be audited by spot checks. OTA is seeking advice from developers of the Canadian Livestock Transport (CLT) certification program. Originally the CLT program developed was by Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC), but federal funding allowed the program to become national. The certification has become
pg 13 tn apr v3.indd 13
mandatory at some processing facilities, such as St. Helen’s Meat Packers in Toronto. The OTA hopes to have the program adopted nationally, and CLT modules would be provided for OTA’s online platform, says Geraldine Auston, CLT project co-ordinator. The two organizations want room for provincial differences, but don’t want to duplicate programs or systems. Auston says trainers are present in the provinces that can act as auditors, retraining as regulations and best practices change. Certifications are currently valid for three years. But whatever changes with certification, it all comes back to the welfare and betterment of the animals, Scott says. And there have been some changes in the years he’s been hauling livestock. The transition to air ride equipment and bigger trailers means the animals are more comfortable than they used to be. “You put that animal in the back of a trailer and it’s on a spring vs. air, it makes a big huge difference,” he says. The trailers are also better ventilated with better air flow from front to back than when Scott started. Which is important as weather changes over the course of a journey from Alberta to Ontario. “You could be in southern Alberta and its -25 C, or you could get into Ontario and it’s zero so you’ve got to be prepared to adjust the ventilation,” he says. “Maybe take boards out of trailers, put the panels back in.” The newer trailers allow far more
THE TRUCK EXHAUST PLACE
control than when trains were still hauling livestock, as their cars were built and that was pretty much that. “They were vented, but there wasn’t really much control of how much hot air went in them or how much cold air went in them,” says Scott. The satellites in trucks also give transporters an exact location of where the animals are and conditions can be adjusted for their comfort. Hyndman still uses standard transmission trucks for all of its livestock hauling because as Scott says, “With the guys that are good at it, you’ll never notice that truck move.” Just as important to moving the animals along comfortably is stopping for breaks. With cattle, that’s a break within five hours of loading. But if done right, the time a driver stops to sleep can be a very comfortable period for the animals.
“A lot of times you can get up eight hours later, and 85-90% of them will be laying down in the trailer quite content,” says Scott. Seeing how animals go about themselves and how they would move about in a trailer is a key aspect of training at Hyndman and would be in any program OTA implements, says Scott. At Hyndman, younger drivers are paired up with older drivers on their earliest runs when possible. Trainees need to see the loading, transport and unloading happen with guidance to understand how to do it on their own, and OTA’s program could accomplish this through video. “The good guy (once out on his own) will make a phone call and ask ‘How many should I put in this compartment’?,” says Scott. “He probably already knows, he’s already figured it out, but just to confirm that.” n
Minister lauds OTA livestock initiative TORONTO, Ont. – The Ontario Trucking Association Livestock Transporters’ Division (OTA-LTD) has received commendation from Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board Gerry Ritz for its efforts to raise the bar of excellence in the animal transport industry. “OTA and CTA (are) indeed industry leaders in humane animal transportation,” read a letter from Ritz. “I wish to congratulate you on the ongoing efforts of OTA/CTA to help improve conditions for animals during transport.” The letter highlighted the value of the LTD’s recently released video which discussed the division’s efforts to promote an industry-wide training standard. The LTD is working with industry partners to develop a training program for transporters, designed to help ensure all animals are transported safely and securely by properly trained drivers. n
1
Canada’s # Truck Exhaust Shop Coolant Pipes
For Most Makes Truck Mufflers
FreighTLiner PiPes Y-Pipe
Turbo
Exhaust System Installations for All Makes and Models
inlet
intermediate
• Y-Pipes • Turbo Pipes
ing t a r b Cele rs!
a e Y 0
Built to Last
3
• intermediate Pipes
Providing Heavy Duty Exhaust Solutions Since 1982 THE TRUCK EXHAUST PLACE 1365 BONHILL RD., MISSISSAUGA L5T 1M1
(905) 670-0100 1-800-385-8801 www.totalexhaust.com
12-03-09 1:50 PM
Page 14 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
east
N.B. enforcement officers given speed guns FREDERICTON, N.B. – Commercial vehicle enforcement officers working in mobile units have begun enforcing speed limits for commercial vehicles in New Brunswick. “Our officers are our eyes and ears on provincial highways, working
with the trucking industry to keep the roads safe for all travellers,” said Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Robert Trevors. “They are already enforcing weight restrictions on the highways. Giving them the tools to enforce speed limits is a
logical next step.” Officers with mobile units recently received training and certification to operate speed enforcement radar devices from the RCMP, and 17 patrol units are equipped with the devices. The Department of Public Safety’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit has 58 officers who
enforce provincial weight and dimension restrictions, speed limits, and conduct commercial vehicle safety inspections on provincial highways. The unit also conducts several annual truck traffic safety campaigns throughout the province in co-operation with other law enforcement agencies. n
DEPENDABLE Truck & Tank LIMITED
www.dependable.ca
U N I T S S A F E T I E D
NEW
NEW
NEW
A L L
BRAMPTON, ONTARIO A L L
NEW 2011 WESTERN STAR c/w 5500 USWG propane complete.
2011 WESTERN STAR, 20,000 litre 4 compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping, bottom load, finish to your specs.
NEW 2012 FREIGHTLINER M2, AUTOMATIC c/w 3499 USWG Propane complete.
U
WATER TRUCK
N I T S
1999 INTERNATIONAL c/w 13,000 litre 4 compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping and metering equipment, bottom loading, Midcom, DOT certified, CSA-B620. Stock #T655
1999 INTERNATIONAL c/w 3500 gallon aluminum tank, pump hydrant fill, gravity bar, flusher, DOT Certified, Painted, Ready to go. Stock #T637
2002 STERLING, c/w gallon aluminum tank, pump hydrant fill, gravity bar, flusher, DOT Certified. Stock #T650
O N
O 2002 STERLING c/w 20,000 litre 4 compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping, DOT, CSA-B620, B/L rough in. Stock #593
2000 STERLING L8000, c/w 13,000 litre four compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping and metering, Midcom, DOT Certified and Safetied, CSA-B620 Certified. Stock #633
U
2002 STERLING, c/w 20,000 litre 4 compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping and metering equipment, bottom loading, vapor recovery, DOT certified and CSA-B620. Stock #T644
R
& C E R T I F I E D !
L O T 2000 STERLING LTS8000, c/w 19,000 litre four compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping and metering, Midcom, DOT Certified and Safetied, CSA-B620 Certified. Stock #592
3500 GALLON ALUMINUM WATER TANK.
Stock #T652
2002 STERLING c/w 13,000 litre, four compartment aluminum tank, c/w two sets of pumping and metering equipment, Midcom, DOT certified. Stock #S646
N O W ! 2000 INTERNATIONAL c/w aluminum 4 compartment tank, dual pumping, Midcom, DOT Certified, Tank fully inspected and certified. Stock #S502
2000 FREIGHTLINER, c/w 13,000 litre 4 compartment aluminum tank, dual pumping and metering., Midcom, DOT Certified, Tank fully tested and certified. Stock #S665
2006 STERLING c/w 13,000 aluminum 4 cpt. tank, dual pumping and metering equipment, Midcom, DOT certified, CSA-B620. Stock #S645
WE RENT TANKERS!
MANUFACTURERS OF ALUMINUM AND STEEL TANKS Call our Watts Line from anywhere in Canada
1-800-268-0871 pg 14 tn apr v3.indd 14
Ask for Mike Trotter
905-453-6724
We are looking for trade ins on propane delivery trucks!
12-03-09 1:51 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 15
quebec
The Fly-in/Fly-out hotel
b ig l o a d s : Transporting modules for the Fly-in/Fly-out hotel in northern Quebec is quite the ordeal.
three-week wait till the spring thaw restrictions pass: the first week of March for the heaviest modules on the A-40, the second week for heavy vehicles on the 138, then the week after that on the 389. n
HigH Tensile sTeel Dump Boxes • TRUCK & TRAILER SERVICE & REPAIRS • HYDRAULICS & CUSTOM HOSES • INSTALLATION OF PTO’S & PUMPS • HEAVY DUTY DIESEL EMISSIONS (MOBILE SERVICE)
• Light Weight
• AUTHORIZED INSTALLER FOR BEKA-MAX AUTOMATIC GREASING SYSTEMS
• Delivery Available
www.cottrill.ca
• Boxes Installed or Loose • Chassis Alterations by our Experienced Shop
See us at
Truck World Booth 3504
Call Herb 1-877-396-1414 252 Saratoga Rd., Kincardine, ON
THIS MONTH’S CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Answers on page 73
The 20- to 22-hour trip is a mix of good and nasty driving conditions, with some travel restrictions. Once on the four-lane A-40, the first, 250-km leg of the trip is clear sailing on the north shore of the Saint Lawrence to Quebec City. There are no time-of-day restrictions. The modules are not so big that any detours are required: most measure 12’ wide by 52’ long by 12’6” high and weigh 25,000 lbs (11,340 kgs). The largest measure 16’ wide by 40’ long by 13’9” high and weigh in at 45,000 lbs (20,412 kgs). Any modules over 12-ft. wide require escort vehicles, according to Jacques Sirois, president, Levio Transport. After Quebec City, the roads become smaller and the trucks are restricted to driving during daylight hours. First is the 438km leg on Hwy. 138 to Baie-Comeau. The driving is slower on this winding, hilly highway. It is here, near Les Escoumins, where that late-February storm stopped the Levio driver. At Baie-Comeau, drivers hang a left onto northbound Hwy. 389. It is on this leg of the journey that things get interesting. In fact, some say it is the most dangerous highway in Canada. The leg to Manac-5, the site of one of Hydro Quebec’s power dams, is paved, but the route is twisty and narrow. A map shows only two place names – Tour and Fraser – buried in the northern spruce. The trip is not so lonely when Groupe Direct or Levio run convoys. “We have put together convoys of up to eight tractor-trailers,” Sirois says. The going gets edgy after Manac-5: This last 250 kms to Fermont is unpaved and the forest grows right to the edges of the road. “The road is terrible. There are potholes and bumps, and it gets slippery. Sometimes the trucks can only go five to 10 kilometres an hour. This is a big contract, but with big costs,” Sirois says. Levio runs heavy-duty International, Volvo and Freightliner tractors, with engines ranging from 450 to 550 hp. It uses telescoping, hydraulic flatbed trailers. The conditions have caused
TN-106 Apr. © 2012 M. Jackson
By Carroll McCormick FERMONT, Que. – The driver slows his rig to a crawl as the snowstorm builds on the North Shore of the Saint Lawrence River, on this last Friday of February. Three hours east of Quebec City on Hwy. 138 he finally calls it quits, maneuvers his 25,000lb (11,340-kg) wide load off the road, shuts down and crawls into his bunk. As it turns out, it will be Monday before he can resume his 1,226-km trip from Terrebonne, just north of Montreal, to Fermont, in the wilds of northern Quebec just across the Quebec border from Labrador City. This is just the latest of over 100 loads of prefabricated modules that Saint-Nicolas-based heavyhaul specialist Levio Transport has moved for Terrebonne-based prefabricated building designer and manufacturer IME. Montreal-based Groupe Direct is also moving some of the modules. On the Monday that the Levio driver resumed his trip, Groupe Direct drivers cleared snow off module roofs, tied down their loads, adjusted their mirrors and left IME with five modules. Eight more modules waited their turn on trailers in the IME yard. A total of 208 modules will make the trip for this project: a 260-room accommodations/hotel called Fly-in/Fly-out. Projected for completion this June, Fly-in/ Fly-out will house workers for the giant iron ore mine that steel and mining company ArcelorMittal operates in nearby Mont-Wright. IME had been building modules at the rate of two a day in its 100,000 sq.-ft. factory since last November. It was shipping one a day, but by mid-February slowed the pace to three a week. The modules are packed with just about everything workers and staff need; ie., beds, mattresses, fridges, televisions, lazy boy chairs and kitchen equipment. “We try to pack everything in the modules. Wood and other products, like pool tables and linen are shipped separately or purchased locally,” explains Stephane DesRochers, business development, IME.
equipment problems such as an engine failure and transmission, differential and brake damage. Drivers will catch glimpses of Lac Manicouagan through the trees, pass through Relais-Gabriel, La Porte-des-Bouleau, MontWright before finally reaching Fermont. Here, cranes will relieve trailers of their loads and drivers can rest before their two-day drive home. The weather has been mostly cooperative this winter, but the spring thaw signals the end of whatever good can be said of that last 250 kms. The last of the modules are scheduled for transport by midMarch, but some will have a
1-800-741-9365 905-795-9009
PICK-UP & DELIVERY ANYWHERE! 407
Columbus Rd.
Mid-Way Blvd.
Dixie Rd.
Derry Rd.
N
Shipping Across Ontario & Canada (Most 4 Hour Drive-in Service Models)
401
6771 Columbus Rd. Unit #7 Mississauga, ON L5T 2J9
• New & Rebuilt Radiators • Air Charge Coolers • A/C Condensers
Cooling the truCking and transit industry
pg 15 tn apr v3.indd 15
Across
Down
1. 5. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 15. 18. 20. 23. 24. 25. 26.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 12. 14. 16. 17. 19. 21. 22.
Tire with new lease on life Post-accident insurance action Truck-buyer’s major concern Over-the-limit cargo, slangily (3,4) Carrier with Moncton headquarters “Put the pedal to the ____” Bean Town Truck maintenance and repairs Final month for income-tax filing Rig with semitrailer and pup (1,5) Trailer floor Tire type E on fuel gauge Suspension components
Auctioned truck, perhaps Three-axle assemblies ’60s 8-track-player button Truck-recall issue Urban-delivery driver’s reference (4,3) Litter-fighting ____-a-Highway program Stone-stoppers behind wheels (3,5) Driver’s on-air alias (1,1,6) Tulsa term, for some (3,4) Castrol diesel-engine oil Dashboard info sources Synonym for 1-Across tire type Truck-rental company LTL word
Try it online at www.trucknews.com
12-03-09 1:53 PM
Page 16 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
ontario
Safe Ontario seniors may no longer need to take annual road test to renew A/Z Continued from page 1
for road tests when necessary; and the use of diagrams will be permitted during the air brake practical test. Once A/Z licence-holders hit the age of 80, they will require annual road tests. The proposal has been published on the Ontario Regulatory Registry and comments are accepted via e-mail.
It could be nine to 15 months after the changes are approved before they go into effect. “That is standard procedure,” said Bradley. “We’ve got to remain focused on the end result, which is the removal of a source of great discouragement for many qualified and experienced drivers who just happen to be 65 years of age or more.” n
Ontario to extend wheelbase limits TORONTO, Ont. – The Ontario Ministry of Transportation has proposed to extend the maximum tractor wheelbase for trucks using anti-idling devices. A notice in the provincial regulatory registry indicates the province would: increase the maximum allowable tractor wheelbase from 6.2 m (244 in.) to 7.2 m (282 in.) for vehicles classed as SPIF 1 (Safety, Productivity and Infrastructure Friendly) designated tractor-trailer combinations – ie., single, tandem and tridem tractor/fixed axle semitrailer configurations. Currently, all other Canadian provinces allow a longer wheelbase tractor, although all but one (Nova Scotia) only does so by special permit. (There is no maximum tractor wheelbase requirement in the US). The changes have been greeted positively by the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA), which has been lobbying for longer wheelbases to provide truckers with greater flexibility in adding emissions-reducing equipment. DPFs, SCR systems and APUs can occupy up to two metres of frame rail space, the association contended in discussions with the province. The OTA says it will continue lobbying the province to expand the number of config-
c h a n g e s c o min g : Emissionsbusting equipment like SCR canisters and DPFs have eaten up a lot of frame rail space, necessitating the move to a longer wheelbase.
urations that qualify for longer wheelbase limits. “MTO is moving in the right direction,” says OTA chief David Bradley. “The additional vehicles we think should also be included are consistent with the intent of the proposed regulation and share the same characteristics consistent with the criteria used to determine those vehicles that should be approved for longer wheelbases. We are hopeful MTO will take a look at this so that more vehicles can accommodate the environmental innovations.” The proposed changes are subject to a 45-day comment period but could be implemented as early as this summer, the OTA announced. n
OTA survey shows industry optimism, but flat growth TORONTO, Ont. – Optimism among Ontario motor carriers rebounded somewhat in the first quarter of 2012 after a dip in confidence to close out 2011, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Ontario Trucking Association. The number of carriers who reported they were optimistic about the industry’s prospects over the next three months increased from 55% in the final quarter of 2011 survey to 67% in the Q1 2012 survey – the highest level since reversing a trend for three straight quarters where carriers expressed pessimism about the shortterm outlook. Although 67% was the highest percentage since the second quarter of 2011, it was still well down from the second and third quarters of 2010 when carrier optimism peaked at 73%. The number of carriers who said they were pessimistic about the industry’s prospects remained relatively flat, rising modestly from 5% to 8%. However, fewer carriers reported freight volumes were improving in all areas of domestic and international transport over the last three months. Only 24% of respondents indicated intra-Ontario freight volumes are improving compared to 36% in the last quarter, while the number who said volumes were the same rose from 57% to 65%. Inter-provincially, the number of carriers who reported improved freight volumes plummeted to 21% from 39% in the last quarter and a massive drop from the 60% high in Q2 2011. Seventy-two per cent said volumes stayed the same – a large increase over the 49% who said the same thing in the fourth quarter last year. Sixty-five per cent of carriers said southbound US volumes remained unchanged – the same amount from the last quarterly survey. Only 14% said southbound US volumes had increased, down from 21% three months ago. In the northbound US market, which has been relatively strong in recent years, the percentage reporting an
improvement in volumes declined to 30% from 35% last quarter and 51% in Q3 2011. Looking ahead, carriers are cautiously anticipating a rebound. Although most carriers indicated freight volumes would remain relatively similar in all categories when asked of their expectations, 38% did say they thought things would improve intra-Ontario (up from 33% last quarter), 40% said the same for interprovincial (up from 33%) and for northbound US, 34% expected an improvement (up from 28%). The percentage of those who expected southbound US volumes to improve was 26%, exactly matching the same rate in the last quarter. The majority of respondents reported that rates were “about the same” in each of the geographic markets – although there were improvements reported by some carriers inter-provincially (28% compared to 19% last quarter). While the number of carriers who indicated improvement on southbound rates was steady quarterto-quarter (19% from 21%), there was some softening in northbound rates. According to the survey, carriers continue to face across-the-board increases in all major operating costs compared to last year. Nearly 90% reported fuel cost increases over the past year, with 44% reporting increases of 10% or higher. Labour costs – the largest component of operating costs – are also on the upswing, with 67% of carriers reporting increases in driver wages, most of which being in the 2-5% range. Carriers continue to be split on whether they should add to their driver pool or not, according to the survey. Forty-six per cent of respondents said they plan to add more company drivers (versus 49% last quarter) while 50% said they have no planned changes. Similarly, 40% said they plan to add more owner/operators, although that’s down from the 51% who indicated the same thing in the fourth quarter. n
Stage CoaCh InternatIonal After An Accident, Do You Want A Get Well Card or A Check? With other plans, every month that goes by that you don’t have a claim means your hard-earned premium payments are gone forever!!! Join the thousands of Owner Operators who have discovered the better way. The “Personal Accident Compensation Plan” underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company pays you a monthly income if you can’t work due to an injury or illness and the Return of Premiums benefit guarantees to return 100% of the premiums you have paid, in claims or cash, tax-free!
Paycheck Protection That Goes To Work When You Can’t! Toll-Free: 1-800-265-4275 www.innovativeinsurance.ca
pg 1, 16-17 tn apr v1.indd 16
Call Today! – PayCheCK ProTeCTion For TrUCKerS Coverage Based on your Gross income
InCoMe taX retUrnS • Personal tax specialist for 31 years • Revenue Canada registered • Driver logs • Forensic audits • Corporate returns $150 • Personal returns $30 • Accounting/Bookkeeping
$31.50/hour • Referrals on request
David Carlisle Oshawa OntariO
905-240-1053 stagecoachinternational@bell.net
12-03-13 1:50 PM
l
SHEEHAN’S TRUCK CENTRE INC.
April 2012
accredited Test Facility
* An official mark of the Province of Ontario used under licence
1-800-254-2859
905-632-0300
4320 HARvESTER Rd., BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
Fax: 905-632-4557
Up to 5% better fuel economy with Volvo SCR engine t r iple t h e d o u b le s : More LCVs will be taking to Ontario highways this year, after the province agreed to expand the program.
Ontario promises to expand LCV program this year By James Menzies TORONTO, Ont. – The province of Ontario has agreed to double the number of permits it will issue to fleets participating in its long combination vehicle (LCV) program from two per carrier to four. New entrants into the program will be limited to two permits until they’ve demonstrated sufficient experience operating LCVs. The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) confirmed the changes to Truck News. David Bradley, CEO of the OTA told Truck News there are currently 54 participating carriers in the Ontario LCV program and as many as 100 new entrants could be accepted this year. The LCV program resumed from its winter shutdown on March 1. “This means we could see more than 300 LCVs operating in Ontario this year from the current maximum number of 108,” Bradley said. “Looked at one way, that is a 200% increase. For the most part, the reaction we have received from carriers thus far
has been positive and appreciative. I know that is not a universally held view. I can understand why someone, particularly if they have had experience with LCVs elsewhere, would prefer to have opened the doors wide open now. However, that was never really in the cards.” Some carriers, already having invested heavily in LCV-configured equipment and driver training have been eager to see the program expanded more rapidly. Bradley pointed out there are still issues involving the availability of emergency stop areas and the province has consistently indicated it prefers to take a controlled approach to growing the program. “Politics is the art of the possible and since the LCV program has been a public-private partnership from the onset, OTA is accepting of this approach and working with MTO within these parameters,” Bradley said. “We will be working with MTO towards continued growth in future years.” n
pg 1, 16-17 tn apr v1.indd 17
cummins and volvo Power Many colours To choose From
GREAT SELECTION OF 2013 MOdEL YEAR TRACTORS!
vOLvO vHd TRIAXLES WITH dUMP BOdIES • 465 h.P. 18 Speed • all aluminum wheels • 20 & 46 axles • loaded with options • hn suspension • 201⁄2' high tensile Bibeau box, • heavy double frame heated air tarp, air gate
THE EvOLUTION OF EXCELLENCE IN MEdIUM dUTY TRUCKS
SHEEHAN’S LEASING LTd.
SHORT TERM & LONG TERM LEASES ON VOLVO DAYCABS AND SLEEPER CABS
OvER 140 CLEAN USEd TRUCKS IN INvENTORY! 8 2008 VOLVO VNL64T-670’S
SEVERAL 2000-2010 VOLVO FLAT TOPS, MID ROOFS & CONDOS
CUMMINS PO
WER
Cummins, Detroit & Volvo Power, O/O & Fleet Specs. From $8,500.
w/61" Hirise Condo’s, 500 hp Cummins and 500 hp Volvo’s, engine brakes, 40 rears, air ride, alum. wheels, full fairings, bunk beds, fridge, 602,000-725,000 km’s, warranty. From $56,950 to $59,950. ea.
40 2007 VOLVO VNL64T DAY CABS
11 2008 VOLVO VNL64T-670 PRE EMISSION
Campaign calls on truckers to help end human trafficking in Ontario By Tyler Davie OTTAWA, Ont. – Persons Against the Crime of Trafficking in Humans (PACT-Ottawa) is installing point-of-sale displays stocked with free CDs, posters and beverage coasters about how truckers can spot human trafficking at truck stops from Windsor to Ottawa for the TruckSTOP campaign. “We see truck drivers as an untapped resource in helping to combat this issue,” says TruckSTOP coordinator Kim Howson. “They may be witnessing instances of trafficking without even knowing it.” Inspired by the work of organizations such as Truckers Against Trafficking in the US, TruckSTOP materials will help truckers identify sex and labour trafficking. Howson says signs truckers should watch for include people who look like they are being controlled or watched, fearing for their safety, tired or hungry, showing signs of physical or emotional abuse and not in possession of identification or travel documents. TruckSTOP launches in April with a second wave over the summer. Howson says the campaign will be evaluated in the fall with the help of truckers and industry groups, and PACT hopes to expand the program across Canada. All materials will be available for free at PACT’s Web site during and after the trial period of TruckSTOP. PACT is funded in part by the Department of Public Safety and the organization is partnering with the RCMP, Crime Stoppers, and the Canada Border Services Agency for the campaign. n
LARGE INvENTORY OF vN TRACTORS
w/61" hirise condo, 465 hp Volvo VED12 (non DPF/pre-emission engine) engine brake, 13 spd., 40 rears, air ride, alum. wheels, full fairings, bunk beds, fridge, warranty, 627,000-861,000 km’s.
w/465 hp Volvo VED12, Engine brakes, 18 spd., 14,600 lb front, 40 rears and super 40 rears, air ride, alum. wheels, full lockers, 600,000-1.m km’s. call for details. also same spec available in 430’s..
SEVERAL 2000-2009 STRAIGHT TRUCKS, GMC, HINO,
9 1999-2003 SINGLE AXLE TRACTORS
INTERNATIONAL and FREIGHTLINER
S/A TRACTORS
18-26' flat decks and Van bodies, reefers, Auto and STD, air or Hydraulic brakes. Call for details.
International & Freightliner, Cummins, Detroit & DT-466 power, air ride and spring. call for more details. From $8,950 ea.
Factory Licensed technicians • 26 Bays • Fast LuBe Pit aLignment rack • emission testing NEW & USEd TRUCKS
3 Sales
Mon.–Thurs. Friday Saturday
8:30 AM to 7 PM 8:30 AM to 6 PM 9:00 AM to 2 PM
NEW TRUCKS: USEd TRUCKS:
3 Parts
Mon. – Fri. Saturday
7:00 AM to Midnight 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
24 HOUR EMERGENCY
3 Service
Mon. – Fri. Saturday
7:00 AM to Midnight 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Kevin Sheehan • Murray evanS • Dave FraSSOn • euGene PeTrenKO SerGei STevenS • vOyTeK POliTaKiewicz • JOhn MurPhy (Sales Mgr.) DenniS Sheehan (uSeD TrucK MGr.) aDaM cziraKi • MiKe MurPhy
eugene Petrenko speaks russian & ukrainian voytek Spolitakiewicz speaks Polish
Trucks! y u B e W
www.heavytrux.com 12-03-13 1:47 PM
Page 18 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
ontario
Ontario weigh stations being rebuilt, relocated PORT HOPE, Ont. – The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario has finalized plans to close the westbound Hwy. 401 inspection station at Bowmanville and move it to the Zion Road area just west of Port Hope. The MTO has completed a preliminary design and named the 13-hectare site as the preferred location among four other potential candidates. The new station’s location midway between the Wesleyville and Newtonville Rd. exits on the 401 won’t affect any merging traffic, nor will it mean any great changes to the highway infrastructure. But it also means that trucks coming from Ottawa down 115/35 won’t have to worry about the Bowmanville coops being open after streaming onto the 401. MTO spokesman Bob Nichols asserts that the present-day Bow-
pg 18 tn apr v3.indd 18
On-Road Editor harry rudolfs
manville location does not meet the needs for inspections in that area and that there isn’t enough room available to upgrade the facility. The bigger site is needed as truck traffic in Ontario has grown by 64% between 1998 and 2008, he says. The new site will make it easier for officers to conduct the thousands of inspections that ministry officials complete every year at these stations. Located near Zion Road on the outskirts of Port Hope, the new inspection station will include 12 truck bays and a large triage area.
Some objections had been raised about moving the scale to locations in Durham County, but the Northumberland site has only three farms adjacent. According to MTO’s Nichols, a public information consultation outlining the plan held in Newtonville, Ont. on Jan. 23 “was well received by the public.” However, a dissenting view is held by John O’Toole, MPP for Durham. “There’s absolutely no reason they have to move the station,” he says. “All they have to do is move it a little further west. There’s plenty of room there. Engineers have told me this. What you’re seeing is waste in action.” Tom Halligan of Port Hope is a little concerned about the new location because it butts against his property. “I’m trying to keep an open mind,” he says. “It’s right
on my doorstep, in fact they’re going to take away a chunk of my land to build the thing.” He estimates that the MTO will want about three of his acres, according to the preliminary plan. “I know that the inspection station has to go somewhere, and as far as that goes I don’t have any objections. It’s the idling trucks and smoke from the exhaust that I’m concerned about,” says Halligan. The new inspection station will be located in an idyllic part of southern Ontario, in the rolling hills of Northumberland County. Halligan’s property actually sits above the proposed site. “I’ll be looking right down at it. They could hide it from me but I don’t think they’ll go that far,” he says. Besides aesthetic considerations, the plan also has to deal with possible environmental concerns like leaking fuel tanks and groundwater runoff. The MTO has engaged Dillon Consulting on developing a preliminary plan. Apparently, issues such as landscaping and noise reduction will be addressed during the detailed design process. According to Paul Acquaah, project manager for Dillon Consulting, “Snow drifts (also) come into play. In the area you get a lot a blowing snow. These are all things we have to consider.” Construction on the new station can begin after an Environmental Assessment, but is also dependent on the acquisition of the land and getting funding from the province. When the new facility is operational, the Bowmanville scale will be closed. This upgrade is part of the MTO’s overall strategy to modernize its inspection facilities province-wide. Indeed the old-style inspection stations have become obsolete. Prior to the 1990s, the primary focus of these stations was weighing vehicles. Since that time, enforcement has shifted to focusing on driver and mechanical fitness, requiring more space for inspections and detention. Meanwhile, work goes on at the eastbound Putnam Road inspection station east of London, Ont., which will remain closed until the fall. Redevelopment of the eastbound station is expected to be completed by September 2012. The westbound station will then be closed and replaced by midsummer 2013. Nichols advises that “More mobile patrols are being conducted on Hwy. 401 eastbound and rerouted to maintain effective enforcement (during the construction)” In case you’re wondering about the status of the westbound inspection station at Gananoque, it is no longer used and steps are being taken to decommission it permanently, according to Nichols. He adds, “There is an active planning study on the eastbound Gananoque TIS.” That facility is apparently due for a refit after 2015. Two other facilities also slated to undergo upgrading at that time are located in Northern Ontario: at Red Rock on Hwy. 11/17, and Heyden, Ont. on Hwy. 17. n
12-03-09 1:54 PM
THERE’S A NEW NAME FOR TOTAL FLEET SOLUTIONS – fleetHQ ™
Truckwise™ has always been there when you needed it the most. And now that it’s part of the fleetHQ network, you’ll have access to even more innovative products, information and services at more places across the country! Our trained tire professionals can help you reduce downtime and save money with solutions like 24/7 support, consolidated billing and tire performance tracking. At fleetHQ, your needs always come first! To join the fleetHQ network, look for the fleetHQ sign at former Truckwise locations, or visit fleetHQ.com/signup.
©2012 Goodyear Canada Inc. All rights reserved.
042537gytkcanFHQLaunchAdTrkNews.indd 1 Goodyear.indd 1
3/9/12 4:20 PM 12/03/12 3:10 PM
19th
Annual
Owner/Operator Award
We know Owner/Operators are at the heart of the trucking industry, investing both personally and financially in their businesses. We’re proud to take this opportunity to recognize the best among them. If you know an Owner/Operator who exemplifies professionalism while also demonstrating a clean driving record, a commitment to safety and a track record of community involvement, nominate them for this prestigious award by completing the application form below.
Co-founding sponsors of this award...
In addition to a ring fit for a champion, In addition2012’s to a ring fit for will a champion, honouree also receive 2012’s honouree will also receive $3,000 CASH and a VACATION FOR TWO up to $2,500!
$6,000 cash!
Nominations must be received by June 13, 2012
The Owner/Operator of the Year should be… Name: Address: Town/City:
Prov:
Home phone:
Bus. phone:
Postal code:
Email: Number of years in trucking/commodity hauled: Primary truck and engine: Number of vehicles: Contracted to (if applicable): How do youismaximize My choice based on:fuel efficiency?: My choice is based on: n Safe driving record n Industry/community involvement n Heroism Safe driving record ❍ Industry/community involvement ❍ Heroism ❍
n Going “Green” Initiatives Going "Green" Initiatives ❍
Explain:
(Include additional information on separate paper if insufficient space)
Nominated by:
Phone:
Mail completed forms to “AWARD” Truck News/Truck West, Attn: Kathy Penner 12 Concorde Place, Drive, Suite 800, Toronto, Ontario 80 Valleybook Toronto, Ontario M3B M3C 2S9 4J2 FORM MUST BE FILLED IN COMPLETELY AND NOMINEE MUST HAVE CLEAN DRIVER'S ABSTRACT
OO of the Year Award 2012.indd 1
12-03-09 9:43 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 21
WEST
Manitoba truckers to see shorter spring weight restrictions
Vancouver port using GPS to improve truck throughput
VANCOUVER, B.C. – Port Metro Vancouver has announced a new pilot project that will use GPS to better facilitate the movement of trucks in and out of the port. The Container Truck Efficiency Pilot Program is a sixmonth test the port hopes will improve efficiency for truckers and the port itself. “Port operations must keep pace with improved technologies that will save time, track movements and improve communication,” said Peter Xotta, vice-president, planning and operations, Port Metro Vancouver. “This is an exciting new program. Thanks to the volunteers from the local container drayage community, we will be able to determine how this technology will have a meaningful, positive impact on daily business operations on the terminal and for the trucking community.” The port is inviting 300 volunteers to take part in the pilot. They must hold an approved licence or permit in Port Metro Vancouver’s Truck Licensing System (TLS) to take part. Volunteers will receive training, installation and use of the GPS system at no cost, the port announced. The port is hoping the program: helps track and communicate important routing, operational and congestion info to vehicle operators in real-time; delivers traffic information that allows truckers to avoid congestion; and validates turn time and wait time at the terminal. The B.C. Trucking Association (BCTA) welcomed the initiative. “With an anticipated increase in container volumes and a looming driver shortage, we need to use every tool available to ensure port intermodal operations are as efficient as they can be,” said Louise Yako, president and CEO, BCTA. “We’re encouraged to see Port Metro Vancouver working in consultation with the container drayage sector, which is a vital link in the Asia Pacific Gateway.” To participate in the program, visit PortMetroVancouver.com. n
pg 21 tn apr v3.indd 21
road restrictions must be put in place, instead of using pre-set start and end dates, according to the announcement. The minister said the policy represents a “proactive approach to adapting to climate change.” A new formula to calculate thawing of the roads has been determined and if weather conditions allow, road restrictions could be in place as early as March 11, but will not last more than 56 days, according to officials. This maximum total of days the roads may be restricted is down from 70 days. Also, to allow trucking operators to better plan, they will be provided three days’ notice of the start and end of the restrictions, up from the current practice of two days’ notice. “Year after year, Manitoba municipalities see a marked in-
crease in heavy truck traffic on municipal roads during the spring weight restriction period,” said Doug Dobrowolski, president of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM). “The AMM supports the use of weather conditions as well as the reduction in the number of days the restrictions may be in place on provincial roads. Both these measures should help to reduce both damage to municipal roads and expense for municipalities.” As part of Manitoba’s highway and bridge renewal strategy, increased funding has been directed toward highway and bridge upgrades, which now mean greater weights can be allowed on a number of roads, Ashton said. For the latest information on spring road restrictions, visit www.gov.mb.ca/mit/srr. n
THE NEW DELO TRUCK ®
JUST ARRIVED WITH A LOAD OF KNOWLEDGE.
A Chevron company product © 2012 Chevron Canada Limited. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC.
t ec h n ic a l h e l p : Port Metro Vancouver hopes to improve the flow of trucks in and out of the port through use of GPS technology.
WINNIPEG, Ont. – Heavy truck operators in Manitoba will see a shorter period of spring road restrictions this year as a result of changes to provincial policy, according to an announcement from Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Steve Ashton. “Manitoba is a major trade route and our recent upgrades to highways and bridges are now helping trucking firms, industries and farmers reduce hauling costs so they can operate more efficiently,” said Ashton. “This latest improvement, prepared in consultation with stakeholders and heavy truck operators, will also benefit other truckers and farmers using our roads and highways.” The new policy will take changing weather conditions into account in determining when spring
Step inside Delo’s® all-new interactive experience. Learn more about lubricants, coolants and diesel engines. Get your hands on some of the engine parts that Delo helps protect and see how Delo with ISOSYN® Technology can help your business go further.
Come experience the Delo Truck at one of the following locations: TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Husky 11am to 3pm 6625 Kennedy Road Mississauga, ON 905-565-9548
THURSDAY, APRIL 12 The Sarjeant Co. Ltd. 11am to 3pm 15 Sargeant Dr Barrie, ON 705-728-2460
THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Crevier – Lubricants Division 2:30pm to 6pm 2320 de la Métropole Longueuil, QC 450-679-8866
MONDAY, APRIL 23 Lubrifiants Saint-Laurent Inc. 11am to 2pm 105 Boul Ste-Anne Pointe-Au-Père, QC 418-723-6347
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11 R.P. Oil Ltd. 10am to 3pm 1111 Burns East, Unit #3 Whitby, ON 905-666-2312
FRIDAY, APRIL 13 Performance Equipment 11am to 2pm 6950 Tomken Rd Mississauga, ON 905-564-8333
FRIDAY, APRIL 20 ADF Diesel 11am to 2pm 185 Paul-Gaugin Candiac, QC 1-800-854-1275
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 Les Pétroles M.B. Inc. 11am to 2pm 2094 du Labrador, Baie-Comeau, QC 418-295-1919
FRIDAY, APRIL 27 S.T.L Lubrifiants Inc. 11am to 2pm 208, rue du Parc Industriel, Saint-Prime, QC 418-251-1218
12-03-13 2:05 PM
Page 22 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
Centerline truCk lube inC. The Original Oil Change and Lubrication Specialists since 1986
Use SHELL
Rotella t Triple
and instantly receive an
a r t x e
10
$
OFF
your oil change Expires Apr. 30, 2012
Use
tection extra 15w40 and receive an instant
15 OFF
$
your oil change
Expires Apr. 30, 2012
oil change
special use mobil delvac 1300 s 15w40 cJ4
remember to grease your truck between oil changes! Receive one
free complete tractor lubrication and levels check coupon with every oil change at Centerline. VALID ANYTIME, NO EXPIRY.
A $25 DOLLAR s AVINgs!
nterline eive a Ce
Rec
$
Loyalty
N O P U O C OFF ge
1it0 han c l i o y r h eve
w
your next t s in a g a e. to apply Centerlin t a e g n a oil ch y. No Expir
Maintain your warran t y!
Synthetic Gear Oil chanGe
$399.99
Includes both differentials & transmission (filters extra if required)
Featuring
Synthetic Oils
NO Limit on Litres • Transmission and both Differentials Filled to the Full Mark
bulk diesel exhaust fluids
99¢/l
Easy access for quick top ups. SHELL
Rotella t Triple
400 15W40 LE
and receive a
free Jug of Delvac Oil Expires Apr. 30, 2012
Delvac 1300 S 15W40 CJ4
fleetGuard filterS
CAT, MACK, DETROIT, VOLVO, MERCEDES BENZ & HINO Original Filters Also Available
Centerline truCk lube inC. uses Only the highest QuAlity Oils, lubriCAnts And Filters. All PrOduCts guArAnteed. OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:00 AM-12:00 MIDNIGHT and SATURDAY 8:00 AM-4:00 PM Located on FIFTh Wh EEL TRu c k sTOP Exit 320, 401 West at h wy. 25 south – 40 c hisholm Drive, Milton
(905) 876-3339 pg 22 tn apr v3.indd 22
west
Sask. trucking firm to provide road reports SASKATOON, Sask. – A Saskatchewan trucking company has partnered with the province to deliver timely road condition updates for truckers and motorists. Saskatchewan’s Highway Hotline will begin providing road condition updates that come straight from truckers themselves. As part of a pilot project, Saskatoonbased Ridsdale Transport will provide the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure with road condition information on 12 routes between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. Conditions will be reported on Hwy. 1 between Swift Current and the Manitoba border, Hwy. 6 between Regina and Melfort, Hwy. 10 between Regina and Yorkton, Hwy. 11 between Regina and Saskatoon, Hwy. 16 between Saskatoon and Lloydminster, and Hwy. 41 between Saskatoon and Melfort. “We’re excited to have this new pilot project up and running with a Saskatchewan trucking firm that is dedicated to providing valuable information to Highway Hotline users,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter said. Ridsdale drivers will call in road conditions to their dispatcher when they’re at a terminal, switch point or other stop along their route. The dispatcher will then send out a report to the Highway Hotline office, which is manned 24/7 in the winter. “Our drivers and our company are on board with this project because it’s simple, it makes sense, and provides an important public service to our fellow motorists,” Ridsdale Transport director of operations Wayne Kowalyshyn said. n
AMTA wants wide-base single weight increase CALGARY, Alta. – The Alberta Motor Transport Association is working with the province to allow an increase in the allowable weight on wide-base single tires. An AMTA delegation met recently with Alberta Transport Minister Ray Danyluk to request an increase from the current 7,700 kgs/axle to 8,500 kgs/ axle – the equivalent to what is currently allowed on dual tires. AMTA executive director Don Wilson says the move would be of benefit to both the environment and productivity. “Moving to wide-base tires would result in productivity gains. At the moment, wide-base tires can only be used on equipment that is not fully loaded,” says Wilson. “The tires offer productivity enhancements – better fuel mileage – something which would reduce the industry’s contribution to greenhouse gases…The environmental benefits, coupled with being better for the Alberta economy, are just too significant to ignore.” Danyluk told the delegation that he was keeping an open mind. n
12-03-09 1:55 PM
Trim Size: 10.875" Live Size: 10.125"
MANAGING A FLEET IS A
NONSTOP COMMITMENT
YOUR seRvice sUppORt shOUldN’t be ANY diffeReNt
At International we know your job isn’t easy. So, we’re committed to make it easier. That’s why we’re introducing OnCommand,™ the most comprehensive suite of service solutions in the industry. With OnCommand, vehicle management is easier than ever. The Repair Advocate program connects customers, dealers and support groups to get trucks back on the road faster. Plus, our Parts Return Program lets you turn obsolete or surplus parts into credit towards new parts.
Trim Size: 16.5" Live Size: 15.5"
OnCommand also helps train your team to run more efficiently. With comprehensive training programs and web-based and instructor-led courses at regional locations, it’s the perfect way to keep your business running on all cylinders.
Get in on the conversation at InternationalTrucks.com/Truths
©2012 Navistar, Inc. All rights reserved. All marks are trademarks of their respective owners.
International.indd 1
12-03-12 3:37 PM
Page 24 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
over the road
The many benefits of taking pride in your profession As professional drivers, we have plenty to be proud about I started off the year questioning whether new technology being adopted by the trucking industry can have a positive effect on safety if it increases the amount of stress on a driver? I moved on to the driver shortage and its effect on an aging driver pool. Last month I wrote about incentive programs for drivers. The common factor in my columns this year has been the time pressure I feel as a driver and how new technology, heavy workloads, and the actions of others affect it. Add in the time demands of my personal life and it’s not surprising that I’m left feeling fatigued and stressed out. So what actions can I take on a daily basis to cope with these time pressures? It’s not within my circle of influence to make these time pressures go away, but I can find ways to cope with the resulting stress, it’s effect on my wellbeing, and have a positive influence on the people that make decisions affecting my time. The best thing I find I can do is to take pride in what I do each and every day; pride in the sense of the pleasure and satisfaction I take in my profession. Taking pride in my skills and experience is one of
pg 24 tn apr v3.indd 24
Over the Road Al Goodhall
the most powerful ways to have a positive influence, not only on my own attitude but on the level of respect I receive from my peers, my employer, the general public, and customers. When you earn respect for the level of professionalism, skill, and effort you bring to your work each day, the people you deal with place a much higher value on your time as a result. It’s a simple and powerful way to increase my influence over others whose decisions or actions have a direct effect on how my days play out. There are three simple ways I believe you can show off your professionalism as a commercial driver: show pride in your ride and the company you work for; show pride in your driving skills; and show pride in the level of customer service you offer. Showing pride in your ride and speaking in a positive way about the people you work for or the com-
pany you represent (that might be yourself) always gets peoples’ attention in a positive way. This is not a difficult thing to do. Other drivers notice, the company you are signed on with recognizes you as someone with a ‘positive’ attitude, as do your customers, and you carry a positive image down the highway in the eyes of the general public and enforcement. Showing pride in how you drive is the best way to get positive attention from the travelling public. Courtesy is something that is contagious. If pride in driving skill becomes a standard for all drivers within the company you work for, pretty soon that big company logo travelling down the road earns a whole new level of respect from all drivers. How you drive determines your safety rating, safety bonuses and reputation as a professional driver within your own company, again, earning you respect. How you drive determines whether the freight gets to the customer in one piece and on time. How you drive is the determining factor in how you are judged by other commercial drivers and all levels of enforcement. Showing pride in the level of customer service you offer is an area that can have the greatest overall impact on your available time and the value others place on it. Service, after all, is the prod-
uct that we are actually providing to shippers and receivers. If you do a dedicated run or local work, the ability to call on the same businesses repeatedly and deal with the same people week after week is a huge advantage when it comes to using your time efficiently. Stress is reduced when you know where you are going and with whom you are dealing. You are able to factor in the knowledge you gain from experience and know when to show up, when not to show up, how to access difficult facilities and so on. There is also a great feeling in getting a pat on the back in the form of a simple and genuine thank-you from the people you deal with on a regular basis. That’s something I missed when I was doing open board work. If you do open board work your company name will go a long way in getting you looked after when your fellow drivers take the same pride as you do in their daily responsibilities. So taking pride in what you do may not solve all the day-to-day problems or eliminate all the obstacles but in the long run it can pay big dividends. n – Al Goodhall has been a professional long-haul driver since 1998. He shares his experiences via his 'Over the Road' blog at http://truckingacrosscanada.blogspot.com. You can also follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/Al_Goodhall.
12-03-09 1:56 PM
Shell.indd 1
12-03-08 3:51 PM
Page 26 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
opinion
Newcomers to Canada need better training on our unique conditions As a British ex-pat, I can attest most drivers from abroad aren’t prepared for Canadian driving conditions. The driver shortage is on my mind again. I’ve spent a bit of time browsYou say tomato, ing through the trucking Internet foI say tomahto rums and being from another land, I look for those that are specifically for British ex-pats. There are quite a few companies conducting recruitment drives overseas right now. The lack of local drivers is sending them much further afield when vacancies arise. In conjunction with their province and the government, it is possible to import workers under a number of different schemes. This is how I came to be driving over here, so you would think it
pg 26-27 tn apr v3.indd 26
mark lee
safe to assume that I’m a big fan of these programs. Well, that is not quite the case. The biggest problem with going to the far corners of the planet to find drivers is the type of driver you’ll find. Now, the art of driving is fundamentally the same wherever you are in the world. The steering wheel and pedals do the same
thing no matter where you are, but that’s where the similarities end. Far too many people have come over as truck drivers and then as soon as the residency papers land in their post box, they quit trucking. This is a clear abuse of the system; they came over to truck, so failing to do so should trigger a revocation of their immigration status and they should be sent packing back to where they came from. Ru n n i ng over-the -road i n North America is very different to trucking elsewhere on the planet. It takes a certain type of driver to be able to spend weeks away at a time; someone who has been driving a city truck, home every night and never working a weekend is going to be very disappointed with the amount of home time they’ll get over here.
On this side of things, the ball lies in the court of the company recruiting from overseas. A licence to drive truck and a pulse is not enough, the ‘get some meat in the seat’ approach just ensures a revolving door of failed drivers. Driving conditions in Canada are unlike anywhere else on the planet, unless you come from one of the states that parallel the border. If that’s not the case, then a Canadian winter is going to come as a bit of a shock. First of all, there’s going to be snow and ice, but that’s only the beginning because snow in the Maritimes is different than snow around the GTA, around the Great Lakes it’s different again and then you get into the Prairies, where again it’s different, before you hit the rocks and once again find a different kind of snow and ice. Nowhere in the world will you find similar conditions, yet after a week at driving school you could be running coast-to-coast and finding out for the first time just how difficult things can get. Now, nobody is born with experience, every driver out there has been a rookie at one time, but a Canadian rookie has grown up here and is used to the weather, while somebody from Europe or Asia is not. There are usually two outcomes from this: the first is that they are totally terrified of the weather and drive at a dangerously slow pace; the second is that they don’t respect the weather conditions and try to carry on as normal, often with catastrophic results. You could say ‘That’s fine, they shouldn’t be over here anyway, it serves them right,’ which is just wrong on so many levels. It isn’t about racism, it’s about road safety, whether you like it or not, immigrant drivers are here and they’re going to become more common as the Canadian population and economy continue to grow. What is needed is a different driving test for non-Canadian nationals, maybe even a restricted licence that stops them from running out of province until they’ve put in a certain amount of time and passed a further test to prove that they have the necessary skills to complete a cross-country run in a safe manner – not just safe for them, but safe for every other road user too. Another alternative would be to send them out with an experienced driver. This already happens in a lot of cases, but far too often the inexperienced driver is left on his own up front, while the ‘trainer’ takes a nap in the sleeper. It’s almost impossible to train somebody while you’re asleep, unless you have special powers, so we need to put a stop to this. I suggest that all team-training operations be restricted to the same hours-of-service as a single driver. The vehicle could even be placarded to indicate that this is the case, then cops and DoT would
12-03-09 1:58 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 27
know that there should be two faces peering out of the windshield, not just one. Another huge benefit to a scheme like this would be that the experienced driver could then pass on the other parts of their experience to the rookie, things
like how to behave in truck stop parking lots, how not to block fuel islands, how not to abandon their truck in the middle of the yard at the shipper/receiver. In turn, spending time with newly arrived people from other parts of the world will broaden
the knowledge of the trainers and help them to understand some of the customs that they bring with them. This can then be explained to other drivers and we could come close to the point where we all live happily ever after in a trucking fairy tale world. n
– A fourth generation trucker and trucking journalist, Mark Lee uses his 25 years of transcontinental trucking in Europe, Asia, North Africa and now North America to provide an alternative view of life on the road. You can read his blog at www.brandttruck.com/blog.
LET US DO YOUR
YARDWORK
RESERVE YOUR FREE GUEST PASS TODAY.
BOOTH 1063
CAPACITY OF ONTARIO - MOVING AT THE SPEED OF BUSINESS At Capacity of Ontario, shunt trucks are nothing new. We’ve been full service leasing and providing contract maintenance and on-site support for our customers for years. Our model is simple; we pride ourselves on service and look to grow with our customers. CAPACITY of Ontario is a division of Altruck International Truck Centres, which has over 40 years of truck sales and service experience. CAPACITY of Ontario is strengthened with over 100 factory-trained technicians, 8 locations, 4+ million in parts inventory, not to mention 24/7 service support when you need it.
We are proud to represent CAPACITY, the toughest trailer jockey in the industry! CAPACITY has been producing shunt trucks for over 40 years and services some of the largest warehouse and distribution operations, intermodal, and seaport terminals in the world. We’re committed to providing the versatility your business requires to keep your trailers moving. We offer full maintenance lease programs, contract maintenance, direct purchase, financing solutions, rentals as well as full parts and service support to keep you moving at the speed of business.
CONTACT US AT 1.888.709.7757 | INFO@CAPACITYTRUCK.COM | WWW.CAPACITYTRUCK.COM
pg 26-27 tn apr v3.indd 27
KITCHENER
HAMILTON
GUELPH
CAMBRIDGE
BURLINGTON (SERVICING GTA)
GODERICH
12-03-09 1:58 PM
Another notch in our growing Award Belt Trucknews.com’s WebTV show Transportation Matters has won a silver award in the Best Video or Multimedia Feature category at the third annual Canadian Online Publishing Awards. The awards recognize excellence in online editorial and innovation by Canadian magazine, newspaper, broadcast and Web site publishers. The silver-winning episode was “Big Beer Run,” which originally aired last winter and chronicled Challenger Motor Freight’s 10-day trek across the GTA hauling six massive beer tanks for Molson-Coors.
www.trucknews.com/videos/
COPA Award tab.indd 1
12-03-09 11:46 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 29
tax talk
From tax prep to tax plan Start planning for next tax season today Is your tax return done? Will you file on time? Did you find that receipt? How much will you owe? Here’s a better question: Why do you put yourself through this every year? Taxes are a major business expense, one you should plan for. You don’t want a surprise tax bill bleeding money away from an opportunity to invest in something you really need, like new equipment or groceries. With planning and professional help, you can take the stress out of filing returns and minimize your tax obligation throughout the year while there’s still time to change course. Here are three steps to get you started:
Tax Talk Scott Taylor
financial statements. Make sure you have everything. There are 12 months in the year so 12 bank statements, cell phone bills, utility bills, etc., should be there. If you only have 11… Break up the year Organizing receipts and statements is the first step toward really managing your business. Your accountant can help further by provid-
ing statements each quarter, giving you a three-month snapshot of your finances. I can’t tell you how many times a client has found a major repair receipt under a truck seat after a review of the last three months’ financial statements clearly showed that a big expense item was missing. This probably would have been overlooked with only an annual review. With financial statements provided quarterly, you’re in a better position to take advantage of deductions and other tax-saving strategies before the year is over and it’s too late. This won’t guarantee you a lower tax bill, but it will guarantee you
the right tax bill. Right now, our clients are reviewing their tax returns without fear. That’s because we told the majority of them what their tax bill would be last October. They’ve had six months to prepare for this moment. So don’t get caught in the shoebox syndrome. Instead of holding your breath when you open up your tax return, hoping not to explode, you can breathe easier knowing how your business is doing throughout the year. Ask for help, get organized, and review your financial picture every three months. There are no surprises when you plan, prepare, and budget. n – Scott Taylor is vice-president of TFS Group, a Waterloo, Ont., company that specializes in accounting, fuel tax reporting, and other business services for truck fleets and owner/ operators. For help or information, please visit www.tfsgroup.com or call 800-461-5970.
Ask for help People put off tax planning because it’s complicated and they’re too busy working. That’s why you hire an accountant. While you’re out earning a living, it’s his job to help you find ways to reduce your tax bill, budget for expenses, decide whether to incorporate, plan for retirement, and avoid errors. When was the last time you filed your GST/HST refund in a timely manner? No accountant worth his salt is going to miss a deadline because he can’t figure out the paperwork or he got involved doing something else and forgot. Get organized There are three problems with sloppy recordkeeping. First, that missing slip of paper or logbook will cost you deductions you might otherwise have been entitled to. Second, it sucks up time that would be better spent looking ahead instead of looking for receipts. Finally, if you’re running a business, you are required by law to keep adequate records. They have to provide enough details to determine your tax obligations and entitlements. Also, your records have to be supported by original documents. I’ve been in this line of work for almost 25 years and I’ve sorted through a lot of shoebox filing cabinets. You may think your “system” is broken beyond repair, but I’ve seen (and fixed) worse. An accountant can work through the pile and explain what records to keep, where to keep them, and for how long. A good accountant will do that and create a filing system that’s designed just for you and your needs as an owner/operator or company driver. There’s an added cost of disorganization when that sack of receipts arrives at the accountant’s office a week before the filing deadline. Every tax preparer has a gun to his head at this time of year. Do you really think he’ll stop and analyze your income statement for possible missing expenses with the filing deadline closing in? Ask your accountant for a checklist of items needed to prepare your
pg 29 tn apr v3.indd 29
Fifth wheels made right. 55,000 lbs.
Max. Vertical Load
150,000 lbs.
Max. Drawbar Pull
6 YEAR/ 1,000,000 KM
Performance Guarantee
The Holland FW35 fifth wheel will always have your back. Known by fleets as the most versatile and proven fifth wheel in the industry, the FW35 sets the standard for fifth wheel function and value. The series includes the FW31 NoLube™, the world’s only completely grease-free fifth wheel. And, with the industry’s first Performance Guarantee of 6 Years/1,000,000 kilometers – why would you spec anything else.
FW35 with ILS
Visit us at Truck World, booth 2031 Visit www.safholland.ca or call 519.537.3494 © 2012 SAF-HOLLAND, Inc. All rights reserved.
12/03/12 3:55 PM
Page 30 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
opinion
An MTO senior moment? Okay, maybe it’s because I became an official senior citizen a few weeks ago, but I really can’t let this Ontario senior drivers thing go. And judging from the calls and e-mails I’m swamped with daily, a lot of you share my concern. Like everyone else, I was pleased when Ontario Transportation Minister Bob Chiarelli decided to re-open discussions on the licence renewal process for senior commercial drivers. We were prepared to explain to this new crop of bureaucrats and politicians how the discriminatory regulation is not only costly and time-consuming, but useless as a tool for catching drivers with failing faculties. Stakeholders were hastily brought together for a meeting at Queen’s Park where the Ministry tabled a proposal. While stubbornly maintaining that a renewal system for commercial drivers aged 65-79 is making our roads safer, MTO is considering a number of amendments to regulation 340/94
Voice of the O/O
Joanne Ritchie
that you can see on the Regulatory Registry (ontariocanada.com/registry); scroll down to ‘Current regulatory proposals’ and find ‘Commercial Driver Licence Renewal (for drivers aged 65+).’ The posting is open for public comment until Apr. 11. In a nutshell, MTO is prepared to: Scrap the annual age-based road test in favour of a driving test triggered by a “poor driving record”; change the written test from annual to every five years; align the written air brake test with the written knowledge test and require a practical air brake test only when a road test is required; and extend these requirements to Class D drivers.
So what’s my problem? We should be overjoyed, especially with the age discrimination factor out of the equation, right? Maybe so overjoyed that we’ll overlook the shortcomings of the proposal on the table? Before I get too carried away, let’s step back and put this in context. When we left off discussion four years ago, there was support on all sides for changes that took certain key principles into consideration: retaining medical reporting requirements, removing age-based road testing, a longer renewal cycle from age 65, poor driving record as the trigger for a road test, and uniform testing for all commercial drivers. The Ministry has let us down sorely on the last two principles, and that’s got me riled. First of all, MTO’s definition of a poor driving record is absurd: Three demerit points or an at-fault collision, with absolutely no consideration for a senior driver’s past record, which most likely spans several decades and millions of miles. Clearly more discussion is warranted to make “driving record”
THE
- ->
IS BACK AND BETTER !
<- -
ck World 2012 u Tr t a s u e e s e m Co 2 April 19 to 21 201 nto, ON tre, Toro International Cen 3005 Booth
• Industry’s Thickest Composite Wall • Snag-Free Wall • Unique Post Design for Easy Pane Replacement • Highly Exposed Components are Galvanized for Maximum Corrosion Protection
Maritimes 877 653 7093
pg 30 tn apr v3.indd 30
Montreal 800 361 7900
Quebec 800 463 2615
Toronto 800 956 2622
Western Canada 877 626 2622
www.manac.ca
a meaningful barometer of the Ministry’s stated objective to identify and test drivers engaged in “highrisk behaviour.” Secondly, the concept of a uniform testing policy for all commercial licence classes, including D, is apparently out the window, particularly with respect to medical fitness to drive. And lastly, there’s a lot of bobbing and weaving in MTO’s justification of the changes that leaves me scratching my head. On the Regulatory Registry you’ll find a document under ‘Additional information’ that gives details on the current requirements, the proposed changes, and the Ministry’s rationale for the amendments. What you won’t find in this document is a claim that the Ministry’s data shows an increased risk of collision due to age-related factors. That claim, in fact, was made when the proposal first appeared on the Web site. When I challenged it, asking what analysis was done, and by whom, to attribute collisions to “age-related factors” I was told they’d “get back to me.” No phone call yet, but the document has been quietly revised. Oops. The reference to “age-related factors” becomes critical when you consider MTO’s justification for the senior driver renewal process in the first place, ie., “the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators has recommended that aging factors be taken into account when considering licensing privileges (ie. slowed reaction time and reduced physical strength, eyesight and hearing).” What they neglect to say is these are medical standards intended as a guide in establishing minimum medical qualifications for all drivers. And yes, the standards recommend the above aging factors be taken into account, but by a physician during a medical examination, not by a CERCO employee administering a road test. Uniform testing? Under the proposed changes, Class D drivers would be subject to the same testing with respect to the written and driving tests, but incredibly, there is no requirement for a Class D driver to undergo any medical examination until age 80. This, by the way, is contrary to the recommendation of annual medical testing for both Class A and D drivers under the same CCMTA medical standards the Ministry is using to justify testing of old Class A drivers. So if an old Class D driver doesn’t need an annual medical to check for “aging factors” why are they testing Class A drivers? To put this in perspective, in 2010 there were 2,224 Class A licence holders in Ontario age 65 and over, compared to 74,175 Class D drivers in the same age group. Ironically, there’s probably a good number of those Class D licence holders who are actually Class A drivers who either “failed” or didn’t bother to renew their licence. And forgive my senior’s moment, but did I miss MTO’s explanation of how the current entry level road test is going to make those old codgers with three demerit points safer? Watch ‘The Age Page on OBAC’s Web site (obac.ca) for our official comments, and if you share my concern, let MTO know through the “public comment” process. n – Joanne Ritchie is executive director of OBAC. Eh? What’s that she’s saying? E-mail her at jritchie@obac.ca or call toll-free 888-794-9990.
13/03/12 3:51 PM
Genuine Quality. Lower Prices. Every Day. ™
Genuine Cummins Parts Meet Every™ Need. Some manufacturers offer discount pricing on lesser-quality parts, claiming that “they’re built to fit your equipment.” But when you buy a Genuine Cummins new or ReCon® part, you’re getting a component that is built and tested to original equipment specifications, so it doesn’t just fit right – it works right. And it’s backed by a full Cummins warranty. We’ve lowered everyday prices on commonly used Genuine Cummins Parts for your N14 and NT engines. Call or visit today, and see how much further your money can go with our new, lower prices. ©2012 Cummins Inc., Box 3005, Columbus, IN 47202-3005 U.S.A.
Cummins Inc.indd 1
12-03-09 2:59 PM
ABS Trailer.indd 1
12-03-12 9:26 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 33
industry
We need to stop eating our young They say the future is in our own hands. I can only offer qualified support for that philosophy because I believe the future of this industry is in the hands of two different groups, segregated by the demographics of age. And further, if we don’t find a way to bring the two together, everyone stands to lose. The stats are there for anyone who cares to read them. Commercial drivers are aging and they are leaving the industry faster than they are being replaced by that younger demographic – the group that the industry says it both wants and needs. Even if we found a magical formula today to replace retiring drivers, getting the numbers up isn’t enough. It will be a long time before we replace the years of experience those retirees have taken with them. And, by the way, there is no magic formula so we are stuck with both issues. And this problem is not limited to the commercial driver issue. Young people are not beating down the doors of the trucking community, crying out to be a part of it all. Although this industry needs to fill the same type of positions as any other business, we can’t attract the people to do it. The positions we need to fill, apart from those that make the trucks operate, run the gamut of sales staff, accountants, engineers, office clerks, warehouse personnel, billing clerks, to…well, you get the picture. Trucking operations, whether private or for-hire, are competing with other industries for the people we need – and we are losing that competition. The most commonly accepted axiom for this malaise is that the industry has a poor image, and not many parents encourage their offspring to seek out a career in trucking. If that is truly the core problem then the industry can do something about it – and to that extent the future is in our hands. Companies that want their drivers to be part of the ‘family’ on a longterm basis are miles ahead of those that treat drivers poorly and accept high turnover rates as normal business. They are taking direct action, and it works on many levels. Those companies are also selective when hiring staff, recognizing that they can keep their best people if they treat them well. This goes far beyond a paycheque. It includes mentoring and training programs that put their new hires on a path of continuous learning and providing opportunities for them to really contribute to the company. Senior people in this industry tell me that when it comes to encouraging young people to succeed in trucking, we simply do not do very well. “We eat our young,” one senior executive told me in conversation recently. “We do not encourage them to be part of what for many is an exciting business, and we don’t listen to their ideas.” It would take a strong-minded individual to take a pragmatic look at that statement and honestly assess whether it’s true within their own company. It would take an even stronger individual who, having found some truth in the statement, does something about it. On one level, change can happen if the industry’s current leaders want to take the initiative; if they go beyond acceptance of the situation and begin
pg 33 tn apr v3.indd 33
Private Links Bruce Richards
the process of making their own company an inviting place for younger people to work. On another, broader level, we need support. Last month I wrote about what I consider to have been a short-sighted decision by the federal government – specifically Human Resources and Skills Development Canada – to put an end to the Sector Council program. Under that program HRSDC had been supporting the work of the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council (CTHRC) with verifiable results. CTHRC developed research reports on industry demographics and TW2012_TrkNews_half_Jan_12_Layout 1 1/10/12 licensing practices that identified sig-
to PMTC members for those interested generated a very diverse group of young people who attended the kick-off meeting. They offered their thoughts on what they wanted from this industry and what they felt they could contribute. The enthusiasm was contagious and very encouraging. The PMTC’s initiative won’t be enough on its own to generate an influx of young, bright minds to the trucking industry. But, just for a moment, consider the potential for groups like this to influence the industry if they have a forum to contribute new ideas, or even old ideas with a new twist. If you fit that younger demographic mode and would like to be part of this group, call us at the PMTC. If you are already part of a similar group call us and let’s see what we have to share. It’s not only your future – we’re in this together. n
nificant gaps and trends. Additionally, CTHRC developed practical training tools for those at the entry level and those who manage them. These were only some of the positive results of this collaboration between government and industry. That collaboration was, in my view, helping to lead the industry toward better human resource practices, which, over time, ought to have led to an industry that young people would at least consider joining. Now we are on our own – back where we started from, but hopefully with a little better appreciation of the human resource challenges and the tools available to meet those challenges. One small step that holds promise for PMTC was the recent launch of our Young Leaders program. We don’t even have an official name for the group yet,1but the early results are 12:56 PM Page promising. The response to a call-out
– The PMTC is the only national association dedicated to the private trucking community. Direct comments to trucks@pmtc.ca.
April 19 - 21, 2012 International Centre Toronto, Ontario ◗ The Green Route
Featuring
◗ New Product Showcase ◗ Free Daily Seminars ◗ See more than 300,000 sq ft of new trucks, trailers and equipment.
Endorsed by:
Vocational Truck & Equipment Expo A special focus on medium duty, vocational trucks, equipment, chassis, bodies and services.
Platinum Sponsor:
www.truckworld.ca Grand Prize Sponsor:
Truck World App powered by
Lanyards provided by:
Endorsed by:
Produced by:
12/03/12 11:59 AM
Page 34 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
industry
Never surrender Effectively lobbying government requires patience. And a willingness to do more than just complain. There is an old saying that goes: ‘To keep going when the going is hard and slow – that is patience.” Another is that “Persistence is the habit of victory.” A great quote from Winston Churchill once proclaimed: “It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried.” He also said, “Personally I’m always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.” And since you can’t avoid Confu-
Brought to you by
Industry Issues David Bradley
cius when you’re compiling quotes and maxims: “It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.” My predecessor, Ray Cope, told me when I was very new to the job to “never miss the opportunity to
put your industry’s case forward.” Over the many years that I have been a lobbyist for the trucking industry, I have regularly reminded myself of these pearls of wisdom and have often taken solace in them. Nothing comes quickly or easily in this game. The process itself can be frustratingly and mind-bogglingly slow. I did not come from government when I joined the industry back in the 1980s. It was a real eye-opener to have to deal with the industry’s regulators and legislators on a daily basis. I came to the realization very quickly that you’ll be a very frustrated and unhappy person if you think things can be changed quickly, especially just because you say it should. From time to time we see groups popping up in the industry that don’t understand this. They are doomed to failure. There are a lot of dedicated, intelligent people in government (both
elected and in the civil service) but the sheer weight of the legislative and regulatory process can grind down even the most enlightened individual or idea. Nor can you simply show up to the odd meeting or write the occasional pithy letter or critique this or that policy or regulation in a column in a trade publication, if you want to be heard or used as a sounding board. I learned (and I didn’t always like being taught) that there is no way you can be successful unless you are prepared to stick with it, to battle every day. I suppose that is true in any business or any pursuit, really. The trucking industry has provided me with a real role model in that regard. I learned that success takes patience and persistence in equal measure. I have also learned that democracy does work, if your cause is right, if your case makes sense and you are persistent. You can and will eventually prevail. Of course, having the backing of those you profess to represent is also essential, and a little luck never hurts either. But, in the end it’s plain hard work – doing something about a problem – not just complaining about it or blaming someone else that will win out in the end. I can’t imagine where the industry would be today if CTA and the provincial associations hadn’t persisted during the decade and more that it took to get the federal hoursof-service regulations rewritten. I can’t count the number of times we were rejected in trying to restore the 80% tax write-off for driver meals, before we were finally listened to and our effort rewarded. In Ontario, it took 30 years to get an LCV pilot up and running and now the program is no longer a pilot, but a full-fledged program with controlled growth. It had been almost a decade that OTA had been working with MTO to give Class A drivers 65 years of age and over a break on licence renewals when the province’s new minister of transportation, Bob Chiarelli, introduced proposed regulatory changes in February. These are just a couple of examples. All of the provincial associations have their own examples of where perseverance has paid off. Of course, it must also be acknowledged that you have to have a willing partner in government, if you want to change things. That doesn’t mean you always have to agree or that an association must be subservient to government. But, the relationship should be one of mutual respect. Associations do have to understand where government wants to go and determine how best your industry can fit into those plans. You must also come to grips with that fact that your issues – as important as you may think they are – are not always high on the government’s agenda. That’s where patience and persistence, as well as the energy and ability to work within the system, comes in and it starts all over again. n – David Bradley is president of the Ontario Trucking Association and chief executive officer of the Canadian Trucking Alliance.
pg 34 tn apr v3.indd 34
12/03/12 12:00 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 35
health
Sleepwalking can be dangerous Could lead to injuries in the truck cab I recently had a patient come into my clinic complaining of wrist and shoulder pain. As it turns out, the patient fell out of his truck in the middle of the night when he was sleepwalking. This is the first case that I have encountered in my career of a truck driver injuring themselves from sleepwalking. In light of this, I decided to research the topic in more detail. The medical term for sleepwalking is somnambulism and refers to the act of getting up and walking around while asleep. Although sleepwalking can occur at any age, children between the ages of four and eight are most likely to suffer from this condition. Individuals who are sleepwalking usually have a glazed or glassy-eyed expression on their face. Common behaviours during sleepwalking include sitting up in bed, walking around the house opening and closing doors or turning lights on and off. In some cases, people will perform common activities such as housework or even driving a car. Often, sleepwalkers will speak or mumble but may also scream very loudly. Sleepwalking usually occurs one to two hours after falling asleep. Scientists have concluded that sleepwalking most often occurs during deep sleep and as a result, it rarely occurs during naps. The frequency at which sleepwalking occurs varies from person to person. It may occur nightly for some individuals or only once for others. Presently, the causes of sleepwalking are not well understood. It is thought that there are many factors that contribute to this condition. Stress, fatigue, anxiety and certain medications may increase the risk of sleepwalking. Sleepwalking is also associated with underlying conditions that affect sleep such as migraine headaches, head injuries and restless leg syndrome. It is important to note that alcohol and illegal drug use can also trigger sleepwalking. Sleepwalking on its own is not a serious medical concern. How-
Ready to
Back behind the wheel Dr. Chris Singh
ever, it can become very dangerous if the sleepwalker leaves their home or truck just like in the case of my patient. If sleepwalking occurs too frequently, it may lead to daytime fatigue. The diagnosis of sleepwalking is quite simple. Your doctor will determine the severity and cause by conducting a detailed medical history and by performing a physical examination. If necessary, your doctor may refer you for a sleep study. During a sleep study, cameras and sensors will monitor things such as your breathing, eye movements, heartbeat and brain waves. Your doctor will then interpret the results of the sleep study in order to determine the presence of any sleep disorders. In the majority of sleepwalking cases, treatment is not necessary. If you witness someone sleepwalking, gently and calmly lead them back to bed. Contrary to popular belief, it is okay to wake a person who is sleepwalking. However, the person may be startled and disorientated when awakened. If you live with someone who sleepwalks frequently, it is important to create an environment that is safe. Locking windows and doors, blocking staircases and removing any tripping hazards are a good place to start. From there, survey your home and use common sense to identify and eliminate any possible threats. Truck drivers should follow the same guidelines with their trucks. The good news is that sleepwalking usually goes away on its own with time. Until next month, drive safely. n – Dr. Christopher H. Singh runs Trans Canada Chiropractic at the 230 Truck Stop in Woodstock, Ont. He can be reached at 519-421-2024.
You need a dispatch program that will help! Our LinkDispatch program will: Improve Customer Satisfaction & Retention Give You A Competitive Advantage Maximize Productivity Increase Profits If you’re ready to grow your business, control costs and make more money, call us today!
800.263.6149
Canada’s Best Dispatch Program
Fast. Reliable. Affordable.
www.transcore.ca
s i e d i s State Only s ’ a d a n Ca ™ P O H S P O T S E N O ! s r e k c For Tru PERMITS ORITIES & H T U A N & CANADIA • ALL U.S. RATION A REGIST T IF TION & P IR • REGISTRA Y IT IL C A F OD • FDA - FO G REPORTIN X S • FUEL TA HT PERMIT IG E OAD W L E L IB IS • DIV STATUS CARRIER D E D rEss N O B • Fast Exp A S C d n a IP • C-TPAT, P
ra
Call fo
EE FcoR on nsultati
SpecialiStS in truck & induStrial radiatorS Your Complete Cooling System Service • Rad • Air Charge Cooler • AC Condenser • We Ship Across Canada • FREE Inspection & Estimate
• Certified Technicians • All Work Warrantied
astic O.E.M. Replacement for Pl nk Ta l Open Monday to ta Me l de Mo l Al ks)
(905) 670-3696 • 1-800-716-3081 Fax: (905) 670-2283
pg 35 tn apr v3.indd 35
Britannia Rd.
5900
Shawson
Hwy 401
➤
5900 Dixie Rd., Unit 11, Mississauga, Ont. L4W 1E9
With over 40 years experience in the Transportation & Insurance Industry!
Saturday
Dixie Road
ost Truc 4 Hour Drive-Thru Service (M
N
Wayne Noftle • 1-800-401-9138 • Fax: 1-888-795-2258 6705 Tomken Rd., Suite 219 Mississauga, ON L5T 2J6
www.statesideconsultants.com
12/03/12 12:02 PM
Page 36 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
health
What to do if you’re first on the scene of an emergency Growing up, I was always taught I could count on a truck driver for help in any emergency on the road. I certainly found this to be true a while ago. While travelling on the 403 between Hamilton and Brantford, I got a flat tire. However, I was not concerned. I have changed many tires over the years. As a source of independent female pride, just a couple of years before, I changed a tire on the shoulder of the 407 on my way in to work and was still able to get there on time with no dirt on my business suit. Unfortunately, managing this recent tire experience was not so simple. Since the cable that held the spare under the back of the van had rusted, my tire would not come down. After crawling under the van a number of times to try and jiggle the tire loose, I finally gave up.
Preventive Maintenance Karen Bowen
Did I mention that my cell phone was dead? So there I was, stranded by the side of the road, wearing dress shoes, anticipating at least a halfhour walk to a gas station. Fortunately, a kind truck driver stopped and let me use his phone. Then when I couldn’t get a response from home, the driver gave me a lift into Brantford. He was my hero. Besides helping with breakdowns, truck drivers are also well known to assist at accidents and other emergency situations. Likely you have taken First Aid courses throughout the years to
practice using the supplies in the kit in your rig, including: splints, pressure bandages, slings and dressings. On the other hand, deciding what action to take with less obvious but more serious health concerns may be a bit more challenging. Let’s look at how to identify three common emergency health conditions, and how to best manage them if you’re the first on scene, after you call 911. Heart attack: A person having a heart attack will complain of uncomfortable pressure, fullness or squeezing pain in the center of the chest that has lasted more than a few minutes. This pain could spread to the shoulders, neck or arms. As well, the person may experience lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea and/or shortness of breath. To help, loosen all tight cloth-
Quality Manufacturer of Tank Trucks and Trailers for Years
94
All SizeS & ConfigurAtionS 20,000 L 4 comp't Tank Truck
StAte-of-tHe-Art CoMPuterizeD 75,000 Sq. ft. MAnufACturing fACilitY
1-800-263-8265 north America
416-661-9330 local gtA
61,000 L 6 comp't Petroleum B-Train
20 AlneSS St. toronto on M3J 3H4
PArtS new tAnk truCkS & trAilerS
PAINT & SANDBLASTING • ALL INSPECTIONS & CERTIFICATIONS • TREMCAR WARRANTIES CLEANING & REPAIRS ALL MAJOR PARTS BRANDS IN STOCK or AVAILABLE ON REQUEST TREMCAR AUTHORIZED PARTS DISTRIBUTOR
pg 36 tn apr v3.indd 36
Call Colin Nice Ontario Sales Rep 416-518-9459 colin@hutchtank.com
FACILITIES IN SASKATCHEWAN, QUEBEC, ONTARIO and OHIO
ing, especially around the person’s neck and chest. Give aspirin (unless allergic to ASA). Give nitroglycerin if prescribed. Raise the person’s feet to aid the blood return to the heart. Observe the environment to find a flat, hard surface on which to perform CPR if necessary if the person’s condition deteriorates. Stroke : A person having a stroke may show: weakness or numbness on one side of the body including either leg; dimness, blurring or loss of vision, particularly in one eye; severe headache with no apparent cause; or an unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall, especially if accompanied by any of the other signs or symptoms. To help this person, use the FAST method to help check for these warning signs. Face: Does the face droop on one side when trying to smile? Arms: Is one arm lower when trying to raise both arms? Speech: Can a simple sentence be repeated? Is speech slurred or strange? Time: Every minute counts. If the person shows any of these signs, seek help immediately. Shock: This can be caused by many things, including trauma, heatstroke, blood loss, an allergic reaction, severe infection, poisoning, and severe burns. Shock is serious. Because when a person is in shock, his or her organs aren’t getting enough blood or oxygen, if untreated, shock can lead to permanent organ damage or death. A person in shock can have these various signs and symptoms: Cool and clammy, pale or grey skin; weak and rapid pulse; slow and shallow breathing, or hyperventilation (rapid or deep breathing); below normal blood pressure; nausea or vomiting; dull, staring eyes; and/or, dilated pupils. A person in shock may be conscious or unconscious. If conscious, the person may feel faint or be very weak or confused. Oppositely, sometimes a person may become overly excited and anxious. If you suspect someone is in shock, even if this person seems normal after an injury, have the person lie down on his or her back with feet about a foot higher than the head; however, not if this will cause pain or further injury. Keep the person still. Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement). If absent, begin CPR. Keep the person warm and comfortable. Loosen all belts and tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Even if the person complains of being thirsty, give nothing by mouth. With all the rigs on the road everywhere, every day, it is comforting to know that from coast to coast, help is always at hand. Kudos to you and thank you, truckers. n – Karen Bowen is a professional health and nutrition consultant , and she can be reached at karen_ bowen @ yahoo.com .
12/03/12 12:03 PM
This is not a retread. This is a success story. For more than 50 years, application-specific Bandag retreads have rewritten the book on tread wear. Fuel efficiency. Reliability. And performance. Along the way, Bandag has allowed fleets of all sizes to write their own success stories. By helping them control operating costs and find newfound advantages over the competition. Visit bandag.com today and help your fleet write its own legendary story of success.
Š2012 Bridgestone Canada, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
TrkNwsTrkWest-BanSuccessAd-April2012.indd 1 Bandag.indd 1
3/2/12 12:30 PM 09/03/12 10:14 AM
Page 38 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
safety
Pre-trip inspections should include a driver’s state of mind It’s no secret that trucking can be a stressful career. Just-in-time delivery schedules, hours-of-service regulations, bad weather and traffic jams often seem to conspire against those who work behind the wheel. To compound matters, the challenges of every workday can build on the stresses of everyday life, whether they relate to an argument with a spouse or financial troubles. Each of these stresses can play a role in highway safety. The hours spent in a driver’s seat simply leave plenty of time to dwell on a wide array of issues, making it difficult to focus on anything else – especially when the feelings explode into anger. During one defensive driving seminar, for example, I approached a driver who had been cut off earlier in the day and asked him to describe the incident. He covered every detail from the red Suburban
Ask the Expert jason shiell
and its licence plate to the driver who was talking into her cell phone. He was able to discuss every action that he took from the moment the brakes were applied, and the anger that he felt. Then I asked him to describe the other cars that were around the truck at that very moment. His mind went blank, and it demonstrated the tunnel vision that can emerge when one is angry. Safe drivers choose to adopt a calm, professional attitude whenever they sit behind the wheel, but that decision requires them to measure their state of mind as surely as they measure brake stroke during a pre-
trip inspection. Indeed, any feelings of stress need to be addressed before the wheels begin to turn. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one of the first steps in resolving stress will involve identifying the underlying source of any problems, and taking real steps to solve them. That might mean turning to a financial expert to help with money issues, or a family counsellor to work through marital problems. Even physical activity and stretching exercises can offer a great release for the tension. But fleets play a supportive role of their own. A dispatcher or manager who answers a call from an angry driver will obviously need to address an immediate challenge, such as a shipper who refuses to accept a load. The first goal is to help diffuse the situation. But it will also be impor-
(613) 546-0431 Check out our Online Inventory! www.morgan-diesel.com
Diesel Truck ParTs inc.
FT
3 LE
1997 IH 4700 444E, 7 spd., 12/23 axles. For Parts
2004 VolVo For Parts
2005 PeTeRBIlT 357 ISC 8.3L, 8 spd., 20/40 axles. For Parts
1987 & 1989 mAck Dmm 8 x 6’s approx. 350,000 kms., E6 275 h.p., CRD 92, Mack 44 diffs.
LY ONEFT – T! S L 3 T FA AC
2007 IH 7400 Plough Truck For Parts
2007 VolVo D16 550 h.p., 117,000 kms.
AlumInum mecHAnIcs Boxes Fully enclosed w/slide-outs. $2500 each.
2000 IH 9200 eAGle Series 60, 13 spd., 12/40’s. For Parts.
BRAnD neW cummIns oIl PAns ISX, L10, M11, ISM, N14, BC III & IV. Also IH DT466 Pans.
lARGe AssoRTmenT oF cAT enGInes.
2000 IH 9400 Series 60 w/newer engine, 18 spd., 12/40’s, 3/4 lock out.
2003 Gmc c4500 Duramax diesel, automatic, Hyd. brakes, clean service truck, translucent roof.
2004 FReIGHTlIneR cenTuRY Series 60 14L, 10 spd., 12 & 40’s, 7000 kms.
kingston, ontario
1990 IH HIGHWAY coAcH
2007 Gmc c5500 For Parts
WE BUY TRUCKS Ask for JAMES or RON E-Mail: james@morgan-diesel.com
1248 mcAdoo’s lane
R.R.1 Glenburnie (kingston) on k0H 1s0
pg 38 tn apr v1.indd 38
Fax: (613) 546-4206
1995 FoRD l9000 For Parts
Monday to Friday 8 a.M.-5 p.M. Closed saturday & sunday CASH OR BANK DRAFT CREDIT CARD PURCHASES ARE SUBJECT TO A 3% PRICE INCREASE
tant to explore the root cause of the anger. The frustration expressed at the loading dock may relate to ongoing problems with a schedule, but the real issue with a specific delay may involve a missed family celebration. Issues like these will often be identified after the tempers of the moment have been calmed, and when appointments are scheduled for a talk after the truck is parked. Of course, the underlying issues can also reach much deeper than an individual situation. Illnesses such as clinical depression can also be taking their toll on an employee, and might be hiding in plain sight. According to www.depressionhurts.ca, the symptoms of depression can include sadness throughout the day, a loss of interest in favourite activities, excessive feelings of guilt, or trouble making decisions. There can be a feeling of fatigue, changes in sleeping patterns, or changes in weight. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can offer a great conduit to distribute information about illnesses like these, as well as any of the other factors that can lead to unwanted stress. Some fleets have even extended the reach of their EAP programs to include Employee Family Assistance Programs, helping to address the root causes of the widest-possible list of issues faced by a driver’s family. When working at one fleet, I assembled information on several emotional wellness issues such as dealing with elderly parents, financial wellbeing and mental health, and left all of it in the driver’s lunchroom along with contact information for the EAP provider. Every piece of literature or CD could be borrowed anonymously, without any questions asked. Mentorship programs can provide another source of support, guiding drivers through the lifestyle issues that are a reality in the trucking industry, and tend to be most effective when they involve someone other than a direct manager or a peer – giving people the confidence that they will not be judged when raising a problem. Collectively, they are the steps that will help drivers to address any stresses in life, and help them to remain focused on the road. Think of them as preventive maintenance for a healthy state of mind. n – This month’s expert is Jason Shiell. Jason is a senior risk services consultant for Northbridge Insurance, and has more than 20 years’ experience in the trucking industry as a driver, certified fleet driver trainer, risk manager and more. To our loyal Ask the Expert readers, you’ll notice a slight change. Markel Insurance, Canada’s leading trucking insurer for 60 years, is now part of a larger family: Northbridge Insurance. Going forward, Northbridge Insurance will continue to provide superior service and innovative solutions to the Canadian trucking industry. For more information, check out our new Web site at www.nbfc.com.
12/03/12 12:04 PM
LIGHT, STRONG AND EFFICIENT
ADVANTAGE #87 THE MACK PINNACLE RIDES ON A LIGHTWEIGHT-YET-STRONG CHASSIS AND IS DRIVEN BY AN MP ENGINE ENGINEERED WITH AN INCREDIBLE POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO TO HELP YOU MAXIMIZE PAYLOAD. ®
™
™
SEE ALL THE ADVANTAGES AT MACKPINNACLE.COM ©2010 Mack Trucks, Inc. All rights reserved.
MCKTRK_6436_BuiltPinDC_TNTW.indd 1 Mack Canada.indd 1
4/12/10 1:41 PM 12/04/10 2:21 PM
Page 40 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
opinion
So, you want to start a trucking company?
You’ve been an owner/operator for a number of years. You’ve made a good living and your equipment is either all, or mostly, paid off. Perhaps you even own your own trailer. You have made the decision to make the leap from being an owner/ operator to being an actual company owner. You’ve approached a few potential customers, with favourable results. You’ve mentioned your plans to friends and co-workers, and several are interested in working for you once you are established. You’ve calculated your cost of doing business, and your income and expense projections. You have prepared a business plan, including your projected growth plans. You could not be more prepared to make this lifestyle change. And you could not be more wrong. If you want to set out on your own, your first task should be to honestly examine your reasons for wanting to run your own company. Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? Have you, throughout your adult life, always had the urge to be your own boss, to enjoy the benefits of hard work and fight your way through the challenges? Or do you feel that you’ve been treated unfairly by your last couple employers and feel you could run a business better than they do? If the latter is true, you should probably stop right now, before you initiate a huge mistake. If you have worked for other companies and you feel that more than one of them treated you poorly – either financially or per-
Small Fleet, Big Attitude bill cameron
sonally – yet many of your co-workers were content with their treatment and earnings, it is time for some harsh self-assessment, because it would appear that the common denominator in this issue is you. Are you difficult, or just plain miserable to deal with? Do you argue with dispatch or refuse reasonable loads? Is management fully aware of your opinion that you could run this show better than they can? Small wonder then, that others were dispatched more generously than you were. If you are unable to change your attitude, you will find it difficult to retain employment. The same attitude will make it difficult to retain customers if you strike out on your own. If you are a legitimate entrepreneur and still eager to be the boss, reassess your financial projections. Knowing your operating costs is only a fraction of the battle. On your own, there will be no one to call at 9 p.m. for a cash advance for a roadside repair. Your paydays on the 15th and 30th are history. Your insurance company requires a payment of 10-20% before you ever turn a wheel. Your fuel costs will remain consistent, but they now come directly from your own pocket. All of your usual expenses (fuel, tolls, repairs, faxes, etc.) will be un-
changed, but your income changes drastically. Unless you find a rare quick paying customer, your receivables will start to trickle in 30-60 days after invoice. Even if you do your own invoicing weekly, your expenses will accumulate for upwards of 45 days from the time you haul the first load until any of your receivables begin to arrive. When starting a trucking business, you will need, either in cash or credit, close to $30,000 on-hand to survive until your receivables cycle into regularity. The same amount will be required when you hire your first owner/operator. A credit card is not to be considered a line of credit, either. Run up 45 days of fuel costs on a 28% credit card, and you are parked before you start. Still with us? You are to be commended for your attitude, work ethic, and preparation. Now for the shopping list of other details that are commonly forgotten. Know the value of the services you offer. If you worked for percentage pay at your previous job, you know what they charged. Is a single operator who’s able to offer a higher level of loyalty worth even more? Or does the fact that you have no availability of extra equipment make you worth less? Or, was your previous employer undercharging for its services? You need to find other small carriers who will hopefully give you rough guidelines as to rate structure, and compare their suggestions to what you already had in mind. When inquir-
ing to other carriers about brokered freight, keep in mind that most will be pocketing at least 10%, or a minimum of $100 per load. This will help to establish guidelines for your own rates. On the subject of rates, don’t be lazy. More than one single-truck operator has taken the easy way out, and given their customers a rate per mile, letting the customer calculate their own freight costs. This is fine if you only have a few destinations, and have found a rate that works for all of them. Doing this on the open board is business suicide. You will be guaranteed to be the first called for the 250-mile trips or US East Coast, where tolls are high and backhauls scarcely exist. Do you think the rate for Louisville, Ky. should be the same as to Boston? In this scenario, it is. Also, don’t make the critical mistake of starting out with lower than realistic freight rates. Concentrate instead on offering very good customer service, thereby justifying higher rates. Good service will eventually be rewarded, where low rates are nearly impossible to increase. There is too much to cover in just one column. Next month, I’ll continue this theme, including essential tips on finding customers, setting rates and controlling operating costs. n – Bill Cameron and his wife Nancy currently own and operate Parks Transportation, a four-truck flatdeck trucking company. The company was founded in 1999 with a 20-yearold truck, rented flatbed trailer and a big dream. Bill can be reached at williamcameron.bc@gmail.com.
canada’s largest tank trailer dealer SALES - SERVICE - PARTS for REMTEC, TREMCAR, J&L TANK inc. OAKVILLE BRANCH
Call Kevin Brown, Tony Jelicic 1-800-268-1456 • (905) 465-1355 Fax: 905-465-3780
MONTREAL BRANCH
Call Ron Laberge, Bob Kavanagh, Camille Pettinato 1-800-363-2262 • (514) 323-5510
Unit 8932 – 1989 AdvAnce B-trAin 62,000L, MC-360 7-compt’s, spring ride (Non-R.T.A.C.).
selection oF remtec & heil 50,000L to 54,000L 1 comp’t quad axle alum. sludge tanks, in time for spring. call
Unit 8886 – 2003 AlmAc 18500L, 4 compt's, DOT-406, aluminum, provision for bottom loading and vapor recovery, dual LC meters, very clean unit.
Unit 7824 – 1987 FrUehAUF 680 cu. ft. steel 2 hopper pneumatic, clean, spring susp., new safety & pressure test, excellent frac sand tank, in Oakville. call
Unit 8474 – trAnstech 20,000L 3 comp’t aluminum tank, would be a good water tank, ready to mount on cab & chassis.
Unit 5750 – 2000 tremcAr 6500 gal. DOT-407 insulated s/s quad axle tank, 2 baffles, manhole at rear, 3 internal sprayballs, Hend. A/R, alum. wheels, excellent condition. call
Unit K451 – 1997 KAlyn 48’ double drop flat deck, air suspension with detachable gooseneck. Available in Oakville.
new troxell 4000 cu. ft. storage silo, lease or buy.
Unit 8982 – 2003 remtec 57,000L 6 compt., TC-406 petro quad, all options, A/R, alum. wheels, new B-620 & safety, just in time for winter. call
Unit 9054 – heil 9200 USG, MC-306, 4 comp’t petroleum T/A, B/L, vapour recovery, new B-620 & safety. call
Unit 9023 – 1999 internAtionAl 4900 tank truck, DT-466 E engine, Alison auto, c/w 1998 Trinity 3400 USG MC-331 propane tank, very good overall cond., new safety & tests. hurry!!
Unit 8990 – 2002 Freightliner Fl-70 tAnK trUcK 3126 Cat, Allison auto, 7000L, 2 comp’t TC-406 tank, 2 reels, one meter, bottom loading, new B-620 & safety. scarce!
Rental Units and Service at both Branches
www.tankmart.com
Tankmart International
OVER 200 NEw & USEd TANK TRAILERS fOR
SALE • LEASE • RENT Feature Unit of the Month
pg 40 tn apr v3.indd 40
call
Unit K358 – 1998 J&l 2600 cu.ft. Vac/Pneumatic, always in plastics service, two rear fill lines, ready to work.
Unit 9052 – 2202 Freightliner ActerrA water truck, 3126 Cat., 9 spd.,16/40 axles, A/R, Budds, Hutchinson 16,000L 2 comp’t natural alum. tank w/pump, super clean, under 400K, excellent construction site truck, new safety, in Oakville. call
12/03/12 3:40 PM
Castrol-Wakefield Canada
4/14/10
4:34 PM
Page 1
Page 42 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
fleet news
The ‘Buyers of Last Resort’ l o o k in g t o g r o w : Is your trucking company in financial despair and close to bankruptcy? These guys just may want to buy it. Pictured is Celadon’s v.p. of operations Wayne Deno (left) and CEO Steve Russell.
Celadon looks to bring aggressive acquisition strategy to Canada Trust your work to TruckPro and
get a chance to win a • $500 • 00 • $500 • $500 • $5
ce
servi al TruckPro le at your loc Redeemab November 30, 2012. e centre, befor
$500 • $500
TruckPro
. – Heavy
h UAP Inc
ated wit
rk associ
is a netwo
Vehicle
ision.
Parts Div
$5
gift certificate* redeemable at your local TruckPro service centre.
TIFICATE
500
$
$500 • 00 •$500 •
500
$
R GIF T CE
A winner at every service centre!
By James Menzies INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Celadon has honed an aggressive acquisition strategy in the US that the company now hopes to bring to Canada, which could present new opportunities for overleveraged fleet owners while potentially growing Celadon’s relevance in the domestic truckload market. Senior executives at Celadon shared their bold growth strategy with Truck News in an exclusive interview at the company’s Indianapolis headquarters. Since 2002, Celadon has focused on acquiring carriers in financial distress, relieving ownership of their debt and paying “fair” value for trucks and trailers, which are then sold via Celadon’s own retail business. The company then takes on the majority of its customers and offers employment to any drivers who meet Celadon’s standards. Unlike most other acquisitions, Celadon pays cash so it doesn’t require bank approval and as a result, it can close a deal within days. While the strategy capitalizes on the misfortune of others, it’s a shrewd tactic that has contributed to the carrier’s driver pool, customer base and ultimately its bottom line. And in most cases, owners of the company being purchased are pleased to be relieved of their personal guarantees, officials said.
we can and pay the money to the underlying lenders, or to the owner if they own it. They’re released from their personal guarantees and they walk away happy,” Russell explained. Ironically, the scheme was developed when Celadon itself was in a state of desperation. In 2002, 70% of its business came from the big three Detroit automakers. “When you do a lot of business with one customer, you don’t own the customer, the customer owns you,” Russell said. “Our stock was at $2, we were on the balls of our ass, we owed a ton of money and were on the verge of bankruptcy. We decided we couldn’t hire 2,500 salespeople to sell more customers so we decided we’d make acquisitions. We couldn’t buy something that was six times EBITDA, because we didn’t have the money; we had to buy weak companies.” Since 2002, all but one of the 11 trucking companies Celadon has acquired have been in a state of financial duress. The company has picked up the pace in recent months, finalizing three acquisitions in 2011 and the Teton deal just last month. An investment banker was used in just one of the 11 acquisitions, Russell noted, and that’s because Teton had already solicited its services. The strategy is only effective when fleets are in a dire posi-
‘We’re not going to pay six times EBITDA, but it works for anybody who just wants to get out,’ Wayne Deno, Celadon
* Redeemable before November 30, 2012. Contest open March 15 to April 30, 2012. Drawing on May 4, 2012. Get contest details and entry forms at your participating TruckPro service centre.
Get a
10
%
discount** on the labour when you purchase HDPlus brake shoes and have them installed at TruckPro. ** This promotion is offered from March 15 to April 30, 2012, at participating TruckPro service centres. Labour not included.
Find your nearest TruckPro service centre at:
www.truckpro.ca The largest independent service centre network across the country
TruckPro is a network associated with UAP Inc. – Heavy Vehicle Parts Division.
7388 TruckPro - Promo 01 - TruckNews.indd 1
pg 42-43 tn apr v3.indd 42
The latest example of this strategy occurred in late February, when Celadon acquired troubled Teton Transportation of Knoxville, Tenn. Celadon chairman and CEO Steve Russell said his team first met with Teton on a Wednesday and had closed the deal the following Monday. “We can act quickly,” he said, noting Celadon’s strong financial situation and substantial cash reserves. “Although there are large carriers based near Knoxville, one would have thought they’d be a natural buyer, but I’d assume they likely would have required bank approval, and you can’t get bank approval in five days. We acted quickly, purchased the tractors and trailers and bought their Knoxville facility.” Celadon has retained about 80 of Teton’s drivers (it operated 180 trucks) and now has a facility in Tennessee from which to service a newly acquired customer base. Teton was in a desperate situation. Its CSA scores were abysmal and its insurance was coming due in early March. The only alternative to bankruptcy was to find a buyer – and fast. Russell admitted Celadon has become known as a “buyer of last resort,” but he makes no apologies. “We buy the tractors and trailers, take over the customers and sell the tractors and trailers at fair value. We sell them as quickly as
tion financially; and in the US, at least, there is no shortage of such fleets. “We’re not going to pay six times EBITDA, but it works for anybody who just wants to get out,” said Wayne Deno, vice-president of operations with Celadon. When asked if that’s the new reality for trucking companies looking to sell, he said: “I don’t think that it’s new, but it’s a reality.” Most of the ownership groups that have accepted Celadon’s terms have been pleased with the outcome, Russell added. Deno said it relieves them from the burden of having to offload their equipment, saves them from the shame of filing for bankruptcy and gives them the peace of mind in knowing most of their employees will be offered continued employment. Most drivers who meet Celadon’s criteria stay on, Russell noted, and in most cases they’re trading in older tractors for brand new trucks – the average age of Celadon tractors is just 1.6 years. Celadon is now setting its sights on Canada, where it hopes to find similar opportunities to grow its Canadian fleet of 250 trucks. When asked what excited him about the Canadian market, Russell launched into a rendition of O Canada – in English and French. “There have got to be compa-
12-01-24 17:50
13/03/12 10:40 AM
April 2012
nies in Canada where the owner is on personal guarantees, things are tough, fuel is going up, whatever,” Russell said. Deno added the company already has a facility in Ontario and needs to add scale to make it more profitable. “It’s a great place for us to try to grow a little bit,” he said. “Rates in and out of there seem to be decent, we have a terminal up there, we have fixed overhead, and we have allowed it to shrink to the point where we frankly need to put more trucks on up there to make it a good profitable business for us. Trying to grow intraCanada business internally, you have to find customers from Montreal to Toronto and at the same time find ones going back. When you do it through an acquisition, that all comes pre-packaged and as long as you can retain those drivers, you can do something.” The perfect match for Celadon, Deno said, would be a fleet with a southern Ontario base and a terminal in Quebec. Celadon execs would like the company to become involved in Canadian acquisition discussions, which typically involve publiclytraded mega-fleets TransForce and Contrans, and few others. When asked if Celadon was approached about the recent MacKinnon Transport van division sale, which ultimately went to Contrans but at first glance could have been an ideal fit for Celadon, Russell said “No.” Would he have liked to have been involved? “Sure. But I don’t think the typical Canadian company knows us as anything other than Celadon Canada; 250 trucks isn’t tiny, but it’s not big.” While Canadian fleets haven’t been knocking down Celadon’s door looking for buy-outs, Deno said “We like to think they think of Celadon Canada as a very small fleet and don’t think of us as a potential acquirer.” That could change, however, if Celadon gets its way, and the company seems willing to throw the full resources of its American parent behind any opportunities that come up north of the border. Russell and Deno agreed they wouldn’t hesitate to take on fleets with up to 300 tractors, assuming they’d retain 200 of those drivers. And they also don’t plan to stop at one such acquisition if the opportunity is right. Essentially, Celadon could double or triple its Canadian capacity in short order if it succeeds in finding companies willing to accept its terms. The repercussions for the industry are significant. Fleets on the brink of bankruptcy now have a new option, one that could free owners of significant debt loads and give them a clean break from the industry. The limited pool of potential buyers in Canada – consisting primarily of TransForce and Contrans – now has a new, well-financed participant with which to contend. And if Celadon’s strategy is successful, it could become a much bigger player in the domestic Canadian trucking market. The sharks are circling. n
pg 42-43 tn apr v3.indd 43
TRUCK NEWS Page 43
KINGTEC www.kingtecusa.com BOCK
Bitzer
COmpressOrs engines
DIESEL
refrigeration 5000 – 30,000 BTU
DIRECT DRIVE SEE US AT TRUCK WORLd BOOTh #3415
905-362-2112 YOUr COOL ALternAtiVe! SALES • INSTALLATION • SERVICE 6198 NEThERhART Rd., UNIT 2, MISSISSAUgA ON
Trucking insurance for hard-working professionals like you
Trucking Insurance Specialists Fleet & Owner-operator Programs Competitive Pricing Insurance for Your Specific Needs Personalized Service
1-888-657-3329 www.burrowes.ca Visit us at Booth #2836
Because Burrowes Insurance understands that your truck Is your source of Income we offer you all the advantages and protectIon you are lookIng for!
13/03/12 2:10 PM
Page 44 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
fleet news
Bison Transport wins TCA grand prize for fleet safety By Lou Smyrlis KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Bison Transport was named the grand prize winner in the large carrier division at the Truckload Carrriers Association’s coveted National Safety Awards. Erb International and N. Yanke Transfer, meanwhile, were winners in the 15 to 24.99 million miles category while Groupe Robert (and Bison Transport) won in the 50-99.99 million miles category. The judging process for TCA’s National Fleet Safety Awards began with the determination of the top companies in each of six mileage-based divisions. The division winners were selected based on accident frequency only. The top three winners in each division were then able to compete for the two grand prizes. The grand prizewinning companies were judged on their overall safety programs, both onand off-highway. During the judging, some of the factors considered includ-
ed safety program organization, employee driver/independent contractor selection procedures, training, supervision, accident investigation, inspection and maintenance of equipment, and outside activities, including general highway safety. In an effort to ensure the highest level of integrity in the contest, all grand prize finalists were audited by independent auditors not affiliated with TCA or the carrier. The annual awards, sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, culminated in a banquet at TCA’s convention at the Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, Fla. Rocha Transportation of Ceres, California, won the award for truckload companies in the small carrier division (total annual mileage of less than 25 million miles) while Bison’s award was for total annual mileage over 25 million miles. The two grand prize winners were selected from among 18 division winners in the National Fleet Safety Di-
vision Awards, announced in January. In order to be granted the prestigious grand prize, both companies had to demonstrate that they strive to meet stringent standards in their overall safety programs, on and off the highway, and were judged to be the best in their commitment to improving safety. For several years, orgainzers say, the essence of Bison Transport’s safety program has been captured in its mantra, “You’re Safe With Me.” This year, the theme was expanded for an internal campaign, “You’re Safe With Me Because…,” which constantly reminds employees of the company’s safety values and raises awareness about the importance of their actions. Drivers receive interactive, customized training that is tailored to their specific equipment and experience level. New drivers in training receive a salary rather than payment by the mile so they can focus on learning safe practices rather than worrying about
SAVE ON COLLISION REPAIR PARTS HOODS • BUMPERS • GRILLS FOR MOST MODELS PARTS FOR ALL MAJOR MAKES CLASS 5 TO 8 DOORS • CHARGE AIR COOLERS • FENDERS • HEAD LAMPS
NEW DOORS! FORD, GMC, INTERNATIONAL, KENWORTH, MACK
NEW PETERBILT
Charge Air Coolers
Reinforced Fibreglass 379 Extended Hoods Complete With Stainless Steel Grill
NOW OEM The Most Extensive STYLE BUMPERS Line Of Hoods, – A DAWSON Doors, Bumpers & Grills EXCLUSIVE!
(No Core Charge)
NOW IN STOCK!
Stainless Steel 15" Air Cleaners Direct Replacement for 379 Peterbilt, 900L Kenworth, $525 w/brackets. 13" For Freightliner Classic
In The Marketplace!
REPLACEMENT FENDERS
Aluminum Pete 379 Fibreglass Pete 379 Fibreglass FLD120
DAWSON
CASCADIA GRILLS Now Available HEADLIGHTS 4300 International
Call Dawson to Save Big On Collision Parts 1-800-938-4654 • 1-888-572-8040
TRUCK PARTS
Division of Dawson International, Inc.
www.dawsontrk.com
E-Mail: dawsontrk@juno.com
Guess who found a new job?
Getting a new job is life-affirming!
Are you stuck in a job, and looking for something new? Well, you too can find a job in 2012 on www.truckops.ca, a job website for transportation and supply chain professionals.
www.truckops.ca is brought to you by: Motortruck
Fleet Executive C A N A D A ’ S
pg 44 tn apr v3.indd 44
B U S I N E S S
M A G A Z I N E
F O R
F L E E T
O W N E R S
Job Postings Are Free!
Your ad will appear simultaneously on three jobs websites:
www.truckops.ca, www.transportplanet.com and www.hirelogistics.ca
meeting a specific mileage goal. Drivers who are safe on the roads are given numerous incentives to stay that way; in fact, Bison spends more than 30% of its actual accident costs to reward and encourage its drivers. When it comes to maintenance, Bison’s detailed computer program tracks every piece of equipment, whether owned, leased, rented, or exchanged with another carrier. It alerts technicians when repairs, service, or inspections are due, so company equipment is always in excellent working condition and drivers experience few on-road breakdowns. Owner/operators must provide monthly maintenance reports showing what work was performed on their vehicle, and Bison technicians can request their own inspection if they feel it is warranted. Bison Transport’s safety strategy appears to be paying off. It holds the highest safety rating available from the US Department of Transportation. As safety increased, accident costs decreased 32% in 2010 and an additional 17% in 2011. n
Small fleets crowned ‘Best to Drive For’ KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) and its partner CarriersEdge recently named the overall winners of the fourth annual Best Fleets to Drive For survey and contest. Motor Carrier Service (MCS) of Northwood, Ohio, was selected as the Best Fleet for Company Drivers, sponsored by Marsh Canada. For the second year in a row, Paramount Freight Systems (PFS) of Ft. Myers, Fla., was selected as the Best Fleet for Owner/Operators. Best Fleets to Drive For is an annual survey and contest identifying the North American forhire trucking companies that provide the best workplace experiences for their drivers. Nominated carriers are evaluated on the range and depth of offered programs, the overall effectiveness of those programs across key metrics, and the responses of surveyed drivers. The top finishers are identified as Best Fleets to Drive For, and the highest scoring fleet in each category is named overall winner. n
Volvo renews fleet safety contest
GREENSBORO, N.C. – Volvo Trucks plans to reward two North American fleets for their commitment to safety with the fourth annual $25,000 Volvo Trucks Safety Award. Michelin will also sponsor the trucking industry highway safety award. “Safety is paramount for both Michelin and Volvo Trucks, so we’re pleased to recognize the hard work and dedication to safety exhibited by the industry’s top performers,” said Ron Huibers, president of Volvo Trucks North American sales and marketing. The award is open to all US and Canadian fleets operating at least five Class 8 units with at least one Volvo. Prizes for over and under 20 million miles travelled will be awarded based on accident frequency rates and prevention programs. For info, visit www.volvotruckssafetyaward.com. n
12/03/12 12:05 PM
New name. Same commitment to Canada’s trucking industry. We brought Markel Insurance Company of Canada* together with its sister companies to form one new, united brand: Northbridge Insurance™ . Building on Markel’s 60-plus years of serving the Canadian trucking industry, Northbridge Insurance remains focused on creating greater success for our transportation customers, as a proud member of this dynamic community. Welcome to Northbridge Insurance. Welcome to the power of together. To learn more about Northbridge Insurance, please visit us at www.nbfc.com.
www.nbfc.com
™
™ The power of together and logos are trademarks used under licence from Northbridge Financial Corporation. * Effective March 1, 2012, Markel Insurance Company of Canada changed its name to Northbridge Commercial Insurance Corporation. 3132-002_ed1E
Northbridge Insurance.indd 1
13/03/12 9:32 AM
Page 46 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
fleet news
Orange turns green
looking for
Safety & ComplianCe manager • To recruit, train, direct and motivate staff • Ensure compliance with Canadian and US regulations • Accident investigation and resolution • Freight claim investigation and resolution Oversize, float and flatbed experience is an asset but not a requirement. Full benefits package. Salary to be based on experience.
reSpond to:
Leanne Cartwright E: lcartwright@scottwoodstransport.com T: 905.417.6171 F: 905.832.9933
Immediate Openings:
Stouffville Operations Manager Mechanical Engineer P. Eng. Dispatcher Billing Clerk AZ Truck Drivers Heavy Haul Licensed 310T Mechanic Heavy Equipment Welder
Brockville Operations Manager Dispatcher AZ Truck Drivers Licensed 310T Mechanic Fork Truck Operator
Resumes: employment@andersonhaulage.com P.O. Box 130, 36 Gordon Collins Drive Gormley, Ontario L0H 1G0 Tel: (416) 798-7737 Fax: (905) 927-2701 www.andersonhaulage.com
Immediate Openings:
Terminal manager aZ Truck Drivers Resumes: dennisfortiertransport@gmail.com Fax: 905-927-2701
Dennis Fortier Transport Inc. 16445 Sixsmith Drive R.R. #1 Long Sault, ON K0C 1P0
pg 46 tn apr v3.indd 46
Schneider National focuses on fuel-efficient equipment By John G. Smith TAMPA, Fla. – There should be little surprise that Schneider National burns a lot of fuel. With more than 12,000 tractors and 13,270 trailers, the truckload fleet that first came to Canada in 1989 is covering a lot of ground. Luckily, it has been able to reclaim much of the fuel efficiency that had been sacrificed in the name of tighter emission controls. Fuel economy dropped about 5% when exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems were first introduced in 2002, said vice-president of purchasing Steve Duley, during a recent presentation to the Technology & Maintenance Council. “The last nine years of emission changes have really created some challenges from reduced payload, fuel consumption and higher costs.” But even when the regeneration of Diesel Particulate Filters is considered, the engines built to 2010 standards have matched the best fuel economy seen before the days of EGR. “We’re pretty happy about that,” he said. The fleet widely recognized for its orange tractor-trailers hopes to become greener still, and continues to focus on a wide array of steps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce the size of its carbon footprint. Shippers are joining the company in its search. “They’re very aware of fuel costs, and certainly the surcharges they see are making them aware of it,” Duley said. A growing number of customers are even looking for steps to support their own sustainability programs, all in a bid to develop more environmentally friendly businesses. Any enhancements will obviously have a big impact since Schneider National is a big believer in standardized equipment. Freightliner is the brand of choice for 99.7% of all the trucks, and Cascadia models account for 24%. Detroit Diesel engines are found under 98% of all hoods, with the DD15 being the favoured engine 32% of the time. These have already been matched by a long list of standard spec’s chosen in the name of fuel economy. There are smooth-sided trailers, tires with a lower rolling resistance, optimized drivelines, low-friction driveline lubricants, fuel tank skirts, aerodynamic bumpers and mirrors, roof fairings, a minimized tractor-trailer gap, trailer tracking, Webasto cab heat-
ers, and side extenders on the cab. The covers added to tractor wheels may have improved fuel economy by less than 1%, but they represent a minor cost. “We’ve done enough repetitive tests that (we know) they’re a low-cost investment that generates a return,” Duley said. And while trailer skirts are prone to damage, they make a difference of their own. “The benefits exceed the costs even if it is a little bit of a challenge to keep the vehicle maintained,” he said. There are other opportunities to come, such as boat tails or additional skirts on the trailers. Since hood mirrors still sacrifice aerodynamics, he mused about the opportunity to mount cameras in their place. Fuel additives might also represent a future option. “We don’t use anything today,” Duley said, “but we do look at those from time to time.” And low-viscosity oils could deliver another percentage of fuel economy improvements depending on the engine. There is little question where the fleet plans to focus when it comes to tires. When given a choice between tire life and fuel economy, fuel economy will win out every time. “Fuel is just such a big lever that it always wins,” he said. Granted, the fleet has yet to embrace wide-base single tires because of challenges in getting them serviced. “From a weight standpoint and a fuel efficiency standpoint they are very strong,” he said. “You just have to have the right operating network.” This year, the fleet is introducing electric auxiliary cooling units, more aerodynamic tractors, and predictive cruise control. Ongoing tests also involve tag axles with traction control, automated transmissions, and tire inflation monitors. One of the biggest changes of all could come in the form of lower axle ratios, even though the fleet already incorporates direct drive transmissions and 2.64 rear axle ratios. The change would simply need to be accompanied by a focus on driveshafts and U-joints to make sure they can last six years or more. “We do believe the new (2014-18) fuel-efficiency standards overall are going to be helpful,” he added. “We ask our suppliers to help us find creative but also balanced solutions.” n
Now Hiring Great People Owner OperatOrS Up to $1.55/mile • $3000.00 Sign-on • Paid weekly • Ontario Quebec • Western Canada • Benefits Available
bonus
COmpany driverS
$0.45/mile • Paid weekly • Home weekends • 500 mile radius of the GTA • Dryvan work, 50% pre-loaded, pin-to-pin
Contact Charlie or Bryan at:
1-800-881-2103
12/03/12 3:42 PM
CMF_TruckNews APR12_10.875x16.5.qxd:Layout 1
3/9/12
1:29 PM
Page 1
Drivers and Owner Operators needed in many capacities, including our expanding Flatbed Division.
ASK ABOUT OUR TEAM GUARANTEE PROGRAM!
SEE YOU AT TRUCK WORLD! BOOTH # 2123
Call us today and put your career on the path of your choice: T 1 800 334 5142 F 1 888 876 0870 E recruiting@challenger.com W www.challenger.com Other opportunities:
Challenger.indd 1
We go the distance. Find us on
09/03/12 3:07 PM
Page 48 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
load securement
Taking a load off your mind Staying abreast of load securement legislation – and its varying interpretations – isn’t easy. Here’s the latest… By James Menzies TORONTO, Ont. – Load securement rules for flatdeck haulers are a constant concern; the rules are often in a state of flux and enforcement’s interpretation of the rules is not always consistent. There are also bad habits that have been ingrained into the minds of many drivers and are passed on to others. Take for example the widely held belief that a strap that’s twisted once atop the cargo it’s meant to secure experiences less vibration and therefore provides greater securement. “There’s no truth to that at all,” says Allan Boomer, sales
team leader for Kinedyne in Canada. “Straps are tested for tensile strength using a straight pull. When you twist a strap it’s not a straight pull anymore, so you’ve compromised the overall integrity of the strap. A lot of guys do that because of the vibration, but if they add one more click to the winch to tighten the strap a little more, the vibration goes away.” The load securement equipment industry has done itself few favours in dispelling industry myths and misconceptions. In fact, it could be argued industry suppliers have contributed to the confusion in recent years. One such
example occurred recently, when a Canadian supplier stamped a working load limit (WLL) onto a rubber tarp tie, insinuating it was suitable to use as a primary securement device. “You can’t rate rubber,” Boomer says, noting the WLL would no longer apply after a few days’ use, since rubber deteriorates with exposure to ultraviolet rays as well as hot and cold weather. “Unfortunately, people were paying triple the price they should for a tarp tie because of this illusion.” Brian Larocque, general manager of Ancra Canada, has encountered the same problem.
Ryder is currently looking for quality...
Company Drivers and Team Owner Operators (AZ) Company Drivers We offer: • • • • • •
Day Cab and Sleeper Activity Dedicated Runs Weekly Payroll Flex Benefit Plan RRSP Program Stock Purchase Plan
We require:
• 2 years’ valid AZ Driving experience • 2 years’ accident free • Clean CVOR and Driver’s Abstract • Clean Criminal Search • F.A.S.T. Approved or willing to obtain
Owner Operator Team Drivers You provide: • • • • •
Late model Tractor 2 years’ operating experience Clean CVOR and Abstract F.A.S.T. card Culture towards Safety & Customer Service
We offer: • • • • •
Attractive Remuneration package Regional dedicated routes Fuel Surcharge Program No touch Automotive freight Paid plates
Please submit your resumes/abstracts to:
Ryder Logistics and Transportation Solutions Worldwide Attention: Human Resources Phone: 1-800-339-2834 ext 2 fax: 519-681-9040 email: recruit32@ryder.com Ryder is an equal opportunity employer.
“One of the most common mistakes we see is the use of tarp ties and bungee cords as primary securement devices,” Larocque says. “These products are designed to hold down tarps, not cargo and equipment. Rubber should never be used as a tie-down, regardless of whether or not it has a load rating on it.” In fact, Larocque says truckers can be fined even for using tarp ties to secure accessorial equipment such as ladders. “If a driver uses a tarp tie to hold a ladder on his flatdeck, enforcement has every right to ticket him because he is not using proper securement equipment with a WLL,” Larocque says. “Even if he has a WLL on a tarp tie, enforcement still has every right to ticket this driver. Tarp ties, either rubber or synthetic, should not be used as a cargo or load restraint.” Boomer says the rules have since been clarified to indicate a WLL cannot be applied to a rubber tarp tie, but the misperception lingers. The industry has also struggled with an influx of inferior tie-down equipment, which is produced both domestically and offshore. Adherence to Automotive Manufacturers Equipment Compliance Agency (AMECA) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards is voluntary, and industry associations are reluctant to lobby for mandatory compliance since many of their members may not conform. “For regulators, forcing load securement suppliers to comply with a third-party certification such as AMECA or CSA would go a long way towards weeding out all the bad suppliers overnight,” Larocque says. “Waiting for the supplier and manufacturer associations to do it themselves will never happen. It is simply not in the best interests of the members who could not comply.” Instead, Larocque says he’d like to see the end users better police the industry, by demanding suppliers to provide test reports and third-party accreditation through AMECA. “Fleets and distributors can ask for this and demand it,” he says. Besides that, a keen eye can identify warning signs that a strap is not well designed. Boomer suggests examining sew patterns and looking for excessive holes in the material, which can weaken the strap. “Sew patterns are the biggest fault we see, where people put excess holes into the strap,” he explains. “Every time you puncture the webbing with a needle, you weaken it.” In some cases, Boomer says testing has shown inferior straps to break at as much as 1,400 lbs of pressure below the stated threshold. He also says some manufacturers are supplying straps that stretch as much as 10.8% under load. “On a 30-ft. strap, that’s three feet of stretch,” Boomer says. Yet, there’s a market for shoddy straps, as they’re typically available at a lower purchase price and flatdeck fleets in particular are looking for any way to save a buck given the difficult times they’ve been through in recent years. “There are two things you should never cheap out on,” Boomer insists. “Number one is your brakes, Continued on page 51
pg 48-51 tn apr v3.indd 48
13/03/12 3:09 PM
Join Celadon Canada and drive a 2013 International ProStar+! Enjoy reliable miles, driver friendly freight, guaranteed detention pay, a safety-minded culture and the strength of a growing international carrier. Just a few reasons why Celadon Canada was named one of the 20 Best Fleets to Drive for in North America! Cross border and Intra-Canada positions available. Company Drivers & Owner Operators welcome.
Call now or apply online! (800) 499-4997 | celadoncanada.com
Celadon.indd 1
12/03/12 1:08 PM
Page 50 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
BIG IRON TRANSPORT (1997) INC.
Proud and Professional for over 21 Years
348 Centre Street, Petrolia ON N0N 1R0
Hiring
Toll Free Tel: 800-465-5371 ext. 25 Toll Free Fax: 877-882-4138 www.bigirontransport.com
for Cross Border
Owner/Operators $1.09 to $1.12 per mile
LONG HAUL POSITIONS AVAILABLE We Require: Clean driver’s abstract and CVOR Must possess valid FAST card and/or passport 2 yrs min. driving experience Heavy Equipment experience Professional attitude
We Offer: Paid waiting time Paid tarping Satellite dispatch Newer equipment Benefit pkg. available
$2500
Sign On Bonus
equal to
$1.46 to $1.49 per mile
How did we do the math? Ask for our rate break down and package summary. • full Loads • Home on Weekends • Paid Plates & insurance
Looking for:
• Minimum three years experience • Clean Abstract • fAST Card • Professionalism
Call KellY at 800-387-5148 www.nolantransport.ca
COME JOIN US!
Synergy Transportation Systems is currently recruiting
Owner Operators
Ne w R ate s
for line haul runs and scheduled LTL runs to our terminals in the U.S. We have put together a pay package that will compete with the best in the industry. $1.44 PER MILE, $300.00 PER MONTH FLAT RATE INSURANCE ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING ELSE PAID
If you possess a professional attitude and are driven by success... give us a call and we’ll sit down and build a plan for you.
Call SHANE CUTLER 416-676-1224 scutler@synergytransportation.com
www.synergytransportation.com We would like to thank all of our Owner Operators and Company Drivers for their on going commitment to safety.
Drivers
OWNer OPerATOrs
.41 cents/mile
$1.467/mile
• $25 picks & drops paid • $30 border crossing paid • Health & dental benefits • $100.00 2nd trip bonus • Annual increases
• Paid picks & drops • Home each week • Fuel cards options with cash price • Paid HVT
Call
1-800-388-8947 x 270
AZ O/O’s
HEAD OFFICE: Brampton, ON
WAnteD IMMeDIAteLy
for the following locations:
If you were an owner operator for us In feBruary you would have earned...
.548 1plus
contract
Company drIvers
pg 50 tn apr.indd 50
905-677-0111
per mile
drops picks and clearances no hold backs no fee for plates no nY citY just a great also hIrIng
Based out of Southern Ontario for runs into Quebec and the Maritimes Based out of Mississauga for Ontario Highway Based out of Ajax for Local, Highway and Longhaul work Also looking for Cambridge Based Corporate Drivers for local and short highway trips Must have minimum 2 years experience and clean abstract Competitive Rates $1.23/mile Fuel capped at $0.70 per litre Contact Recruiting at
Contact us or drop by and see us at: 319 Bishopsgate Road, Burford, ON N0E 1A0 Toll Free: 800 667-5758 or 519 449-2714 Fax: 519 449-1510 Email: customerservice@jeffbryantransport.com
Si
Hiring Owner OperatOrs We Offer
We Require
$1 O/O on00 Bo 0
gn
nu
s
Paid Bi-Weekly • FAST CARD • Minimum 3 years experience Benefits available • Clean Abstracts • Paid plates • Paid tolls Must live in the Windsor-Toronto 401 corridor • Paid PC Practical Miles • $1000 deductible with Buy Down Also Hiring Cross Border Drivers at $.47 per mile Package • Fuel presently capped under $.60 per litre • •
$1.18-1.22 per loaded mile Please Contact: Steve Dixon mailto: sdixon@rideway.com
800/387-1478 x23 Fax 519/741-1883
www.rideway.com
12/03/12 3:44 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 51
load securement
A WLL alone does not ensure compliance Continued from page 48
because if they go you could kill somebody and number two is cargo control, because if it lets go, you could also kill somebody and lose your company.” He also notes multi-million dollar lawsuits are becoming the norm when accidents occur and personal injury lawyers can build a strong case against the trucking company if it wasn’t using certified straps from a reputable supplier. With the new Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) safety measurement system now in effect south of the border, there have been some reports of enforcement officers ruling a load to be out of service if just one strap is noncompliant, even if more than the minimum number of straps were used. Both Boomer and Larocque say this should not discourage drivers from throwing an additional strap or two onto a load. “There is nothing wrong with adding a few mores straps to the load, as long as they are properly marked with a working load limit and are not cut or damaged,” Larocque says. “If all you’re doing is adding more defective product, you are a potential target for a fine.” Boomer says it’s easy to underestimate the weight of a load or to receive inaccurate paperwork from the shipper, so throwing an extra strap or two over the load will in most cases do more good than harm. “The best practice would be to throw an extra strap or two on,” he says. “They’ve never given anyone a ticket for overdoing it.” Anecdotally, Boomer says most inspectors have indicated they won’t fine a driver for using a non-compliant strap, as long as they’ve used requisite number of legal straps to secure the load. The absence of a WLL tag or stenciled imprint is a frequent source of fines. WLL tags cans be removed – intentionally or otherwise – so it’s a good idea to purchase straps with both the tag and the stencil, Boomer notes. Canadian regulations have only begun approving the use of a WLL stencil in the past couple of years. “A lot of people are still confused by that,” Boomer says, noting Kinedyne straps come equipped with a WLL tag as well as a stencil. Another misconception is that the WLL tag must be secured by all four corners. “The illusion is that if all four corners are sewed on, the tag will stay on better,” Boomer says. “All you’ve done is perforated around the tag itself and the tag material and webbing material will expand and contract at different rates, so after one trip you’ve lost the tag.” Fleets and drivers should not be altering the tag or reattaching it, Boomer says. “If you’ve lost it, it’s done. You have to replace the strap.” Once a quality set of straps has been installed, there are ways end users can extend their life. “They can protect their straps from UV damage by removing them from the winches when not in use,” Larocque points out. “Using corner protectors and protective sleeves
pg 48-51 tn apr v3.indd 51
pe a c e o f min d : Using proper load securement equipment and properly maintaining it means inspectors will have to look elsewhere for potential fines.
will also go a long way.” Boomer also suggests laying the straps out on the flatdeck and running them through the truck wash
on occasion. “Some straps are webbed so loosely, the road grime gets in there and they wear out more quickly,” Boomer
says. “Occasionally at the end of a trip, wash them down and get the road grime and salt off them.” Interestingly, there are regionally nuances in how straps are cared for within Canada. Boomer says in eastern Canada, customers tend to leave their straps on the winch year-round while in the west, they’re often removed and as a result they last longer. Western Canadian customers favour fourinch straps, while three-inch straps are the norm in the east. “It doesn’t make any sense, it’s just preference,” Boomer says. Of course, the most effective way to extend strap life and at the same time avoid fines for non-compliance with Canadian and US load securement rules is to purchase quality equipment in the first place. “I would ask for a test report and third-party accreditation,” Larocque advises. “If the vendor can’t produce these, then how the strap feels or looks, or how the WLL tag is applied means nothing.” n
$1.48/mile single $1.52/mile team Canada $1.50/mile single $1.54/mile team U.S. Safety Bonus Program $1500 Sign on Bonus for singles $3000 Sign on Bonus for teams Paid Licensing Paid Insurance Excellent Benefits Steady Miles
13/03/12 3:10 PM
Scotlynn.indd 1
12-03-08 3:58 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 53
green truck summit
Record crowd gathers to talk ‘green’ trucks
“I feel like part of the team.”
Alternative fuels have moved beyond ‘science project’ stage, delegates say By James Menzies INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The general sentiment at this year’s Green Truck Summit, attended by more than 750 suppliers, regulators and environmentally-conscious fleet managers, was that alternative fuel vehicles have moved beyond the “science project” stage and are now delivering acceptable paybacks when placed into the appropriate applications. Dr. Steven Chu, US Secretary of Energy, kick-started the event with an appeal to fleets to diversify the sources of fuel they use to power their vehicles. “Suppose you were a meat eater and all you liked was beef, it was the only thing you ate,” he said. “If the price of beef goes up, you have to pay for it.” By contrast, an individual who enjoyed a wider range of food, say chicken, rice and vegetables, would be protected from volatile meat prices in much the same way a transport company that uses a variety of fuels to power its fleet is less exposed to surging oil prices, Chu noted. He seemed particularly fond of natural gas as a viable alternative fuel. “For an 18-wheeler, it’s no longer a debate whether you can use it,” he said. “Even though it costs 50-100% more than a conventional truck, that price will come down very rapidly because now there are competitors and the fuel costs roughly half as much (as diesel) per equivalent gallon.” Chu noted there are still challenges with natural gas, namely the weight of compressed natural gas (CNG) tanks. He said the US Department of Energy will fund research that will hopefully lead to a cost-effective composite tank that’s lighter weight and offers greater capacity. Chu also lauded recent developments in battery technology that make electric delivery vehicles more practical. He said in late February, Envia produced a 400 Watt-hours/kilogram (Wh/kg) lithium ion battery with double the energy of its predecessors, reducing the cost of energy from $600-$700 per kilowatt hour (kWh) to about $300 per kWh. “Our goal is to by 2020, to make electric vehicles considerably less money to own and operate than the conventional trucks we own today,” Chu said. John Boesel, president and CEO of Calstart, which organized the event along with the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA), said the US accounts for 5% of the world’s population, yet 25% of the oil consumed on any given day. “That’s a pretty challenging ratio to sustain, given the in-
pg 53-55 tn apr v3.indd 53
crease in population in Asia and elsewhere,” he said. He noted the US now spends more than US$400 billion a year to import oil. “That’s a lot of money that’s going overseas that if we were to keep here in this country would be very helpful for our economy.” Another benefit of adopting more environmentally friendly fuels is that many of the technologies are now being developed here in North America. As battery technology sourced from
“I like driving quality equipment.”
“Big national accounts mean job security.”
Immediate Openings
for owner operators and company drivers for transborder, vans and roll tites. Come and talk to us about joining our team of dedicated professionals. Lots of great reasons to join our team such as higher rates, employee rider program, lower insurance and a $2500 sign on bonus. AZ licence required, with 1 year experience. Call Karen at 905-790-6197 to speak English, Punjabi or Hindi Call 800-267-1888 or 613 961-5144 x123 Email: recruiting@itsinc.on.ca www.itstruck.ca Belleville Cornwall Brampton We are committed to employment equity and diversity.
Continued on page 55
A great place to work
IntroducIng
new company Pay Package HIRING COMPANY DRIVERS Tandem 43¢/mile Quad axle 45¢/mile Positions Available for Experienced AZ DRIVERS 2012 PROSTARS & 386 PETERBILTS Recognized as one of North America’s
Quad axle
$1.22 $1.20 $.585
Hiring Owner Operators
LOADED EMPTY PER MILE FEBRUARY FUEL SURCHARGE
• Operating mainly within a 1200 mile radius of the Toronto area • Home weekly • Consistent year round work • Stable environment
If you have a professional attitude and desire to succeed call
Tandem axle
$1.20 $1.16 $1.14 $.398
PER LOADED MILE U.S. EASTERN SEABOARD PER LOADED MILE ALL OTHER AREAS PER EMPTY MILE ALL AREAS PER MILE FEBRUARY FUEL SURCHARGE
Ken ellaCOTT
1.800.263.8267 www.laidlaw.ca
Fax: 519-766-0437
E-mail: kellacott@laidlaw.ca
MARITIME OWNER OPERATORS AND COMPANY DRIVERS
Please call: BETH TAYLOR at 1-800-561-9040 for details or fax your resume to: 506-633-4731 or email resume to: btaylor@laidlaw.ca
12-03-12 1:20 PM
The best training fuels the best drivers. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Schneider offers tuition reiumbursement and paid orientation. Through classroom learning and in-truck training, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll set you up with the tools you need to become the best driver you can be.
Upgrade to Schneider. Call 1-866-928-2125 Visit schneiderjobs.com
Schneider.indd 1
09/03/12 3:10 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 55
green truck summit
C.A.T. Inc., an international truckload carrier for more than 30 years, is expanding and has signed interesting new contracts. We need professional:
COMPANY DRIVERS
Continued from page 53
Online application at
www.mcgilliontransportlimited.com
OWNER OpERATORs
WANTED Immediately for OTR Flat Deck • 70% tractor only • 80% with trailer • We have a choice of either step deck or curtain side trailers, whichever you prefer Experienced OTR Flat-Deck drivers also considered
1-800-268-4620 pg 53-55 tn apr v3.indd 55
Full time and Part-time single
& OWNER OPERATORS We offer: t t t
China has become more expensive, “domestic mining becomes more viable,” Boesel said. He noted an example of a new rare earth mine being opened in California while another California company is now extracting lithium from existing geothermal wells. Doyle Sumrall, senior director of business development with NTEA, shared some of the organization’s research that indicated trucking companies and municipalities plan to continue greening their fleets. The benefits of doing so, he said, have never been more obvious. “We are getting a much clearer vision,” Sumrall said. “Our understanding of what these technologies are and how they work and how they can be applied is becoming clearer.” Still, the key to furthering the advance of clean trucks is to ensure the right technologies are being used in the appropriate applications, Boesel added. “We have seen technologies deployed by fleets in the wrong applications and then the fleet is unhappy.” With alternative fueled trucks proving themselves in the field, Boesel listed four things that must take place to build volumes to levels where purchase price is no longer a deterrent: Suppliers and OEMs must invest in the future and work continuously to improve performance and to lower the cost of their products; “outstanding” service and support must be available to fleets that deploy green trucks; fleets must be willing to invest in the technologies and account for high future oil prices in their economic models; and government and policymakers must provide support via incentives. n
Please visit us at Booth 5445
Our people make the difference
New Pay Package Up to 49¢/mile New Trucks have Arrived Come join us for a free lunch every Friday at our Coteau du Lac terminal t
Interest in ‘green’ trucks growing as fuel prices climb
If you have 2 years experience and a clean driving record
ContaCt the Closest loCatIon to your home
Contact our recruiting representatives
Coteau du lac, QC Francois (Frank)
Concord, nC andy
napanee, on Gary
1-855-JOBS-CAT
mississauga, on ryan
Kitchener, on Bob
laredo, tX rene
"This company does more than talk, they listen."
J. Davis – 11 year owner/operator
"You get treated fairly and are appreciated. I don't have to give up family for money."
M. Harp – 7 year coMpany Driver
Owner Operators
We pay up to $1.37
Plus Fuel Surcharge, Insurance, Plates.
alsO hiring cOmpany drivers Applicants must live within a 100 km. radius of our yard and must have flatbed experience
225 Huron Road, Sebringville, ON N0K 1X0
1-800-565-5557 or 519-393-6194 ext. 242 Fax: 519-393-5147 E mail: dianneb@woodcockbrothers.com
www.woodcockbrothers.com
Sign-On Bonus
We Hire tHe Best to Be tHe Best!
12-03-09 2:20 PM
Now hiring VAN OWNER OPERATORS • New Pay Package • Sign On and Safety Bonus • We Pay for Insurance and Plates
FLAT DECK OWNER OPERATORS • Safety Bonus • High Gross Revenue Paid • Home Every Night
COMPANY DRIVERS – LOCAL and LONG DISTANCE • Paid Company benefits • RRSP program • Competitive Wages We require Valid Ontario AZ license • Clean abstract • Clean CVOR Clean criminal search (or FAST card)
Contact Leesa Martin at 1-855-BRS-HIRE (277-4473) I
lmartin@brsmith.com
l
Fax 519-426-2661
www.brsmith.com
Bruce R Smith.indd 1
12-03-12 1:51 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 57
green truck summit
Success stories abound at Green Truck Summit By James Menzies INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Those who like green trucks, like them a lot. That’s the sense one got in attending the Green Truck Summit, hosted by NTEA and Calstart and attended by a record crowd of about 750 delegates. There was no shortage of success stories being shared among panelists and attendees, however the overriding message was that environmentally friendly trucks will only deliver tangible benefits when placed into the applications they’re best suited for. Doyle Sumrall, senior director of business development with NTEA said the industry has gained a better understanding of which applications are best suited to ‘green’ trucks, whether they be hybrids or powered by an array of alternative fuels such as natural gas, propane or electricity. One of those on-hand to tell a happy story was Tony Bizjak, a fleet manager with the County of Fairfax, Va. The fleet consists of about 6,000 Classes 1-8 vehicles, but the sore spot among them was the Class 8 fleet of 65 trucks that pulled walking floor refuse trailers and averaged a meager 4 mpg. Bizjak admitted it was a tricky application. Trucks had overhead clearance issues, spent a lot of time idling and handled unpredictable
loads; an 80,000 lb load of trash one day may weigh 100,000 lbs when soaking wet. The county spent five years trying to spec’ a more efficient truck for the application and went through five iterations before arriving at its new fleet of 2012 Freightliner Cascadias that have been fitted with an aerodynamic package that still allows them to travel under low clearance sections of the transfer station. The trucks have been equipped with Eaton UltraShift Plus automated transmissions. Drivers rejected the first generation UltraShift, Bizjak noted, but the most recent version met their high expectations. The engine was downsized from 15-litres to 13, air disc brakes were spec’d at every position, and the county worked closely with its local dealer and component manufacturers to spec’ all the appropriate parts. Drivers were consulted along the way and their input was taken seriously, Bizjak added. “The drivers love the trucks because they’ve had a hand in it,” he said. Taxpayers and beancounters are sure to like the new trucks as well. Bizjak said they haven’t been on the road long, but early indications suggest fuel mileage has improved from 4 mpg to about 5.5. A higher profile fleet that has Continued on page 58
If you are a transportation professional possessing – – – –
WE DR NE IVE ED RS !
a minimum of 1-year North American AZ driving experience current CVOR, Abstract and Criminal Search conversational English skills an excellent can-do attitude …
Ask about our Hiring Bonus!
WE NEED YOUR HELP IMMEDIATELY!
We are Musket Transport located in Mississauga and we are expanding our cross-border trailer division. Expanding business means we need at least
10 O/O’s and COMPANY DRIVERS
FOR CROSS-BORDER RUNS, OUT ONE DAY, BACK THE NEXT.
O/O - $1.31/mile plus fuel subsidy; Company Drivers – 42 cents per mile Company Benefits plan availaBle to all. Call Rob Smith at 416-275-1715 Email rob.smith@musket.ca • Fax 1-905-281-9637
TRANS-SEND FREIGHT SySTEmS lTD. Now HIRING CompANy SINGlES & TEAmS
for our Brand New 2012 Kenworth T660 Fleet Trucks We Offer: Call If: You want to join a winning team Sign On Bonus (owner operators) You want to enjoy your job Flexible Pay Package (owner operators) You take pride in driving quality equipment Weekly Home Time You are a qualified professional AZ FAST/CDRP TX, TN and Mid-West Runs approved driver Fuel Cards Competitive Wages (company drivers)
Also Looking for Qualified Owner Operators To Join Our Fleet
Please call Lisa for more information at:
1-800-265-7697
or stop by our terminal at: 1580 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario
www.trans-send.com
*At Trans-Send Freight Systems Ltd we know that our drivers are our SUCCESS*
THUNDERSTRUCK TRUCKING
Wyoming, Ontario
is now hiring Immediately Requires Owner Operators for Step Deck and RGN Double Drop Hauling Agriculture Equipment and others • With or Without own Trailer • Oversize Experience an asset • Clean CVOR • MUST be able to enter into USA • Percentage Rates Contact us at: safety@thunderstrucktrucking.com Phone: 519-845-1287 • Fax: 519-845-0978
pg 57-58 tn apr v3.indd 57
12-03-12 3:07 PM
Page 58 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
green truck summit
O/O’s WANTED
IMMEDIATELy
For Canadian and U.S. Runs
• Fuel Capped at $0.70 per litre
• $1.33/mile (U.S. Miles) • $1.23/mile (CDN Miles) • All Tolls, Border Crossings and Empty Miles paid • Paid Waiting Time • Some Dedicated Lanes still available
Must have minimum 2 years experience and clean abstracts.
Contact Recruiting at
905-677-0111
Electric vehicles having some difficulties in Canada Continued from page 57
enjoyed similar success by spec’ing more efficient vehicles is Frito-Lay, which runs a massive fleet of 1,092 tractors, 3,800 trailers, 3,518 medium-duty box trucks and 14,100 light-duty ‘route trucks.’ Michael O’Connell, senior director, fleet operations with Frito-Lay, said the company set a goal to reduce its fleet-wide fuel consumption by 50%. “When we talked about it for the first time, we thought it was a crazy goal,” he admitted. However, he said the company is well on its way to reducing its consumption of fossil-based fuels by 50%. “Our strategy is working extremely well,” he said. “We’re about 14% reduced over the last four years and we’ve grown our business. It works,
Our people and our equipment
set us apart
Laidlaw Carriers is Looking for Quality
OWNER OPERATORS Who Care to Fill Positions within Our Growing Company
LIqUID TANKER
and Pneumatic positions available Base plates, border crossings and all US tolls paid Competitive Fuel Surcharge Program FAST CARD and TWIC CARD an asset
Big Company with small Company values great lanes Competitive pay
Watch fOr us On trucker tV! coming to
april 14
PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE AND TRUCKING IS NO EXCEPTION Some lanes cross the border • We run the Great Lakes • We run the GTA Great mix of short and long • Company owned unloading equipment
Call Recruiting
pg 57-58 tn apr v3.indd 58
1-800-465-8265
Woodstock Ontario Cardinal Ontario Valleyfield QC
t o o c o l d ?: Frito-Lay deployed six electric delivery trucks in Canada, but cold weather posed some problems.
but it’s not easy.” One of the ways Frito-Lay has achieved its fuel consumption improvements was to deploy electric vehicles in its light-duty fleet. The company currently runs 176 electric vehicles and will surpass the one million mile mark with its electric trucks this month, representing a fuel savings of 750,000 gallons of diesel. Frito-Lay has deployed natural gas-powered tractors and will add another 50-60 units this year, O’Connell said. It has also outfitted its entire fleet with GPS, spec’d lighter-weight components and added aerodynamic equipment. One of the biggest contributors to its success, however, may be its Top Gun driver development program that educates all drivers on fuel-efficient driving techniques. This alone has contributed a steady 6% fuel economy improvement across the entire fleet, O’Connell said. Still, the journey has not been without its challenges. The electric vehicles were problematic in cold weather, particularly the six units that were deployed in Canada. “We have found there is cold, and then there is really, really cold,” O’Connell quipped. “Really, really cold is not good.” And while Frito-Lay does 75% of its maintenance in-house, it has found support for electric vehicles to be lacking. Before deploying any type of environmentally friendly vehicles, O’Connell advised fleets to provide technicians with the tools and training they will require to service the vehicles. “If you provide the tools and training, they’re willing to learn,” he said. “Don’t just dump the asset on them and tell them to take care of it.” Also sharing a success story was George Survant, director of fleet services with Florida Power and Light. He admitted purchasing green trucks can be intimidating for old-school truck guys who traditionally had essentially two choices to make: Gas or diesel; and big or small. “You have a whole host of new choices,” he said. Florida Power and Light has found success in spec’ing mediumduty diesel-electric hybrids, as well as passenger car hybrids. Collectively, the organization now has 375 hybrids in service and last year they reduced their fuel consumption by 584,000 gallons. “There’s real money on the table,” Survant said. n
12-03-09 2:28 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 59
technology & maintenance council
Tire pressure systems deliver fuel savings, extend tire life: US research By John G. Smith TAMPA, Fla. – A two-year US research program has concluded that systems which monitor or maintain tire pressures can deliver better fuel economy and longer tread life, and in some cases pay for themselves in as little as a year. “We saw an increase of 1.4% in fuel economy, which is a big deal,” said Chris Flanigan of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA’s) Office of Analysis, Research and Technology, which was responsible for the Tire Pressure Monitoring Field Operational Test Results. “These systems can provide a real quick turnaround on fuel savings alone.” Official results of the FMCSA’s work will not be released for a few months, but an audience at the annual general meeting of the Technology & Maintenance Council was given a sneak peak. The report will certainly offer a valuable testimonial for companies that provide automatic tire inflation systems and tire pressure monitoring systems, which are currently mounted on a mere 5% of the equipment rolling down US highways. There is little secret that tires are rarely inflated to the proper pressures. An earlier FMCSA study showed that only 28% of tires are inflated to proper pressures, and 34% are within five psi of the right levels. One in every 14 tires was underinflated by at least 20 psi. But systems like those tested in the latest study can help to spot these issues or even top up the air in the tires. The research itself involved two test fleets – Sheetz, a Pennsylvania tanker operation that runs on widebase single tires; and GFS (Gordon Food Service), a Michigan fleet that had traditionally struggled with curb-related tire damage. The tested equipment included the Meritor Tire Inflation System by PSI, the wheel-mounted Tire-SafeGuard Monitoring System, and the Integrated Vehicle Tire Monitoring System which is mounted on a valve stem and bolted to the wheel. The tire inflation systems were able to maintain pre-set pressures in trailer tires, and offer warning lights that could be viewed in the driver’s mirrors. And the tire monitoring systems delivered their data to monitors in each cab. Researchers tracked everything from mileage to fuel consumption, system status, visual tire inspections, tire pressure, tread depth, tire failures, in-service failures, tire replacements and system maintenance. The systems themselves were also exposed to a test track to see how they would perform in extreme situations. When one tire failed, for example, the automatic tire inflation system would not pull air from the other tires. The Sheetz test fleet covered 3.9 million miles, consumed 632,000 US gallons of fuel, and identified 160 worn tires and 38 tire incidents. At GFS, the test fleet covered 3.4 million miles, burning 520,000 US gallons of diesel. About 278 worn tires had to be replaced.
pg 59 tn apr v3.indd 59
The steer and tanker tires used in the Sheetz fleet lasted as long as they ever did, but the life of the drive tires was extended by about 30/32-inch per million miles. The control group lost about 154.5/32 of tire depth per million miles, compared to the test fleet where tires were consumed at a rate of 125/32 per million miles. Related results from the GFS fleet were not available because the equipment did not come back to the maintenance facility as often as expected. When asked if the monitors could deliver an added safety benefit, Flanigan admitted that accidents linked to catastrophic tire failures are “relatively few and far between.” But the equipment can help to reduce the calls for roadside tire repairs, which can be dangerous when completed next to a live lane of traffic, he said. n
Currently hiring u.S. Owner/OperatOrS $1.11 per mile loaded/unloaded with fuel At $0.60 per litre plus HST $75 per extra pick in U.S. $50 per extra delivery in U.S. Insurance, tolls, scales and faxes paid by company
Currently hiring u.S. COmpany DriverS $0.43 per mile loaded/unloaded $50 per extra pick in U.S. $50 per extra delivery in U.S.
We also need
All load from US are back to yard No GTA deliveries
Call Sam: 519-821-7999
Canadian Company drivers and U.s. HWy dispaTCHers/FreiGHT BooKers
Hiring@skylarklogistics.com
Hiring Company Drivers & Owner Operators for our Van & Specialized Divisions
• We pay $0.43 per mile • Direct Deposit • Paid weekly • Structured home time • Satellite dispatched • Paid for every pick & drop • O/O’s we pay up to $1.35 • Paid plates • Paid insurance
$2,500 COmPany PaiD
BOnuS!!
PRECISION SPECIALIZED DIVISION Exceptional Service for Exceptional Freight
• We pay $400 per day for our Heavy Haul loads • $0.50 per mile plus oversize bonus on all OD loads • Paid for every pick & drop • Paid to tarp • Paid hourly after 2 hours • Long haul & short haul available • Paid weekly • Direct deposit • O/O’s we pay percentage • Paid insurance
Call:
1-800-890-2558 x3100 Email: dispatch@precisiongroupag.com
www.precisiongroupag.com
12-03-09 2:30 PM
Page 60 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
FAMILY IS IMPORTANT TO YOU. IT IS IMPORTANT TO US TOO. Family owned and operated since 1959. Visit us at Truck World! Booth #2205
Steady, refrigerated transportation company in the food industry offering a variety of positions. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
Long haul to regional to local - all in one company! Transfers between terminals and positions with no lost seniority Quality miles and regular home time Excellent pay, bonuses and benefits
Starting wage based on experience! The Erb Group of Companies is hiring:
COMPANY DRIVERS & OWNER OPERATORS Baden, Toronto, Thunder Bay, North Bay, Ottawa, Montreal, Trenton, Barrie ,Winnipeg *Minimum one year driving experience
GOOD PEOPLE. GOOD LIVING. Apply online at www.erbgroup.com
t: 1-800-665-COLD (2653) e: recruiting@erbgroup.com
...Our people make it happen.
We believe in
In-cab use of CPAP devices a challenge Power requirements, storage remain two key issues By James Menzies TAMPA, Fla. – The effects the increasingly prevalent sleep disorder obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have on a professional driver have been well documented. However, there’s growing concern about the impact in-cab use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices – the machines used to treat the condition – are having on the power supply of a vehicle and the safety of drivers. A group of experts converged on the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings to discuss power management strategies for in-cab sleep apnea devices. Among the panelists was Tim DiSalvi, director of loss prevention for Schneider National, which is among the most proactive fleets in screening and treating drivers with the sleep disorder. DiSalvi said the fleet is having trouble finding a power solution for CPAP devices, which draw about four to six amps per hour, resulting in a total requirement of 40-60 amps over a 10-hour rest period. “The immediate solution was to idle the truck,” DiSalvi said. “That is one way to go, but obviously there are some challenges with idling restrictions and it just doesn’t make sense from a financial perspective to have to idle the truck when it’s not necessary.” Schneider doesn’t equip company trucks with auxiliary power units (APUs), as the fleet has yet to make a compelling business case for the equipment, and the truck’s primary batteries are in many cases unable to power the
CPAP machine for an entire 10-hour rest cycle without compromising startability the next morning or triggering a low voltage disconnect. “Early on, the batteries were draining down and causing the CPAP device to shut down in the middle of the driver’s rest period,” DiSalvi noted. Power inverters are one potential fix, and another option is to power the CPAP device off a separate battery, ensuring the truck is able to start in the morning. Paul Menig, CEO of Tech-I-M, said CPAP devices are adding strain to an electrical system that’s already pretty much tapped out. “Today’s engines require more electrical energy to be able to start, especially in cold conditions,” he explained. “Batteries are regularly drained by the comfort items in the cab. Truck OEMs are already challenged without taking on additional loads required by heated, humidified medical equipment.” Bruce Purkey of Purkeys Fleet Electric agreed, adding: “Over the last several years, we’ve had new anti-idling policies, rising fuel costs and increased electrical load demand. The result has been less available energy to start the vehicle every morning when we get ready to operate this vehicle. Fleet customers are now saying we have medical devices that can pull six to 10 amps and it has to run all night. Is this the straw that broke the camel’s back?” Nobody on the panel denied the im-
Do You Want More Than This? Come see the Caravan difference.
DRIVING home the truth ...we call it
RecRuItmeNt INteGRIty
COME VISIT uS AT TRuCk WORlD BOOTH #2414
NOW HIRING OWNER OPERATORS AND COMPANY DRIVERS
OWnER OpERatORs
1 Year minimum experience Must be US qualified with valid passport or FAST card
WE OFFER consistent Weekly mileage $1.17/u.S. mile + $0.04/mile eastern Seaboard bonus Attractive Fuel Subsidy Program $1,500 Sign on Bonus Scheduled Home time Solid customer Base with over 42 years Industry experience A Professional, Approachable management team
technology & Maintenance council
WE REQUIRE 2 years minimum AZ experience equipment: must be 5 years or newer Fast card and/or canadian Passport clean, current Drivers Abstracts/cVOR clean criminal Record Search Pre-employment Drug test Required
1-877-588-0057
Toll Free: 1-888-828-1727 or 905-338-5885 ext. 222 We Provide:
Paid Practical Miles Paid picks & drops Satellite dispatch Company fuel cards 1 Year Anniversary Bonus Referral bonus Call Paid waiting time Jayne Gunn Performance bonuses Eastern Seaboard bonuses Discounted fuel on-site (Owner Operators) Paid fuel surcharges (Owner Operators) headquarters:
recruiting@rosedale.ca • www.rosedale.ca
2284 Wyecroft Road, Oakville ON L6L 6M1
Hiring Owner Operators For All Terminals
500 Montée Labossière, Vaudreuil-Dorion QC J7V 8P2
pg 60-61 tn apr v3.indd 60
quebec terminal:
www.caravanlogistics.ca
12-03-13 2:46 PM
April 2012
portance of supplying power to CPAP machines; in fact it was noted a driver’s continued use of CPAP therapy is crucial to their safety. However, powering the devices remains an elusive challenge. Purkey suggested the CPAP machine should have its own power source so it doesn’t risk draining the trucks’ batteries or lose power overnight. He also said it should plug into a standard power outlet so it’s easy for drivers to use. Schneider’s DiSalvi issued a challenge to CPAP manufacturers: “Be mindful of the limited power that’s available and ensure the CPAP devices are efficient in their power usage.” Menig said he’s concerned suppliers will begin building multi-purpose CPAP machines with everything from alarm clock capabilities to iPod adaptors built in, increasing their power requirements. Randy Thinnes, representing CPAP manufacturer Res-Med, said he’s cognizant of the trucking industry’s concerns, and announced the development of a new device that runs entirely off 12- or 24-volt DC power sources. “A 12- or 24-volt DC converter replaces the AC power supply with no need for an additional inverter,” he said. He predicted the new offering will be a huge development for in-cab CPAP usage. “A fully DC device is huge,” he said. “It’s going to improve the efficiency, being able to utilize a single DC power source.” Not only are truck fleets struggling to find power for CPAP devices, they’re equally frustrated with the absence of a safe, secure place to po-
TRUCK NEWS Page 61
sition the device while in use. “These devices were originally built for use in the home,” admitted ResMed’s Thinnes. “There was never any concern for mobile applications.” DiSalvi noted “Our drivers will place it on top of storage bins, which is not ideal, especially in team configurations.” The machine has the potential to fall and break, and water can slosh from the humidifier reservoir into the electronics if the machine falls from its perch. Some team drivers have also received an unwelcomed shot of water up the nose from excessive movement of the vehicle, something akin to waterboarding and not exactly conducive to restful sleep. Storing the unit on the floor presents challenges as well, such as tripping hazards. “We have to at least find a way to store this,” said Menig. “We don’t want six feet of tubing and six feet of wires going around the floor of the cab as the driver moves in and out of the sleeper.” Some do-it-yourselfers have come up with their own installations, Menig said, but when bolting inverters or shelving units into an existing cabinet, he warned drivers or fleets to check with the OEM first to see if the cabinet walls can support the additional weight. “In our view, we would advocate for a particular space designed for the CPAP machine that would be secure, doesn’t include bungee cords, a secure location close to power and even an additional separate battery for the CPAP unit in the sleeper berth so it’s able to go from one truck to another without having to move an inverter,” DiSalvi implored. n
Hiring Owner Operators •
With Late Model Equipment Paying Competitive Rates $1500.00 Sign On Bonus
•
Now Hiring • • • • • • • •
COMPANY DRIVERS & OWNER OPERATORS ONTARIO - QUEBEC WORK ONLY
HOME MOST WEEKENDS GROUP INSURANCE PLAN INCENTIVES AND BONUSES LATE MODEL TRUCKS AND TRAILERS DEDICATED RUNS AVAILABLE GREAT CVOR PAID WEEKLY (DIRECT DEPOSIT) COMPANY UNIFORMS SUPPLIED
• All interested parties must have a valid AZ drivers licence • You must provide a clean drivers abstract and CVOR • Two years verifiable experience required
Contact Randy Scott by phone or Fax: 613-968-2945
1-800-565-1084 x230 or 613-968-7541
Looking for Flatbed Company Drivers H New contract H All loading and unloading fees paid H Benefits from day 1 H Fuel bonus available H Profit sharing H Dedicated Rolltite H New truck available after 3 months
Looking for Owner Operators H 85% Gross H LTL’s available H Fuel cards H Dedicated Rolltite *** Lease to own option with no money start up!
Call Jennifer
1-800-565-5598 ext. 25
We Offer:
Has immediate openings for
2 OWner OperatOrs
to run a 500 mile radius to pa, Ohio and Indiana
• A dedicated aluminum Roll-Tite trailer with a Quick Draw System • % of gross revenue paid • A guarantee $1.80 per mile and up on 500 mile radius round trips • Home every weekend • Low insurance, company paid buydown insurance • Repair assistance • A clean abstract • 4 or more verifiable years of steel experience
905-494-0354 ext 23
to run the U.S.
Dedicated Runs Now Available Call: 888-772-6542 Fax: (519) 827-9279 email: joe@doyletransportation.ca Website: www.doyletransportation.ca
Also looking for local drivers
pg 60-61 tn apr v3.indd 61
Toronto Based
Requires OWNER/OPERATORS Fleet average/mile $ 1.72 (Single driver O/O)
If You Have:
please contact: tracy at
Requires O/O and Drivers
Enclosed Car Carrier
Local & US Drivers
(includes fuel surcharge + auxillary charges)
WE SUPPLY
Paid heavy use taxes Paid insurance Practical paid miles loaded or empty Paid tolls + bridge crossings Floating fuel surcharge weekly Weekly pay - direct deposit Well maintained trailers Paid layovers Paid on/offs for vehicles Paid surcharge for paint Paid company apparel Coveralls + cleaning 90% Canadian/10% U.S. runs Performance & Loyalty Bonus Programs
O/O SUPPLIES Late model tractor w/PTO Remaining base plate cost (after first $ 500 paid by company) Proof of Disability Insurance Buy down insurance cost Fast card or application capable Clean abstract & criminal search Min. 5 years driving exp. Min. 3 years border crossing exp. Car hauling experience preferred Pleasant attitude & good work ethics
We RequiRe Clean, reliable tractor 2 yrs. experience Clean driving record Good work attitude We OFFeR Steady work Highest rates in the industry Weekends off Great work environment
Contact:
Andy Thorndyke, Vice-President 318 Rexdale Blvd., Toronto, Ontario 416-742-0854
12-03-13 2:46 PM
Page 62 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
technology & maintenance coun
10 REASONS we’re the Carrier for you:
Currently Recruiting
OWNER OPERATORS for ON - TX Lanes
Contact recruiting
1-866-569-7964
1. Lots of Long Haul Miles 2. Dry Van Freight 3. Competitive Rate Per Mile 4. Fuel Surcharge Program 5. Safety Bonus Program 6. Paid Plates, Insurance, Fuel Tax, Bridge Tolls, Road Tolls, Scales & Faxes 7. In-house Discounted Shop Rate 8. Weekly Direct Deposit 9. Access to Company Fuel Accounts 10. Personal Communication with Dispatch (No Satellite)
Visit our website: www.keypointcarriers.com
pg 62-63 tn apr v3.indd 62
Trailer blazers
Trailers represent the next frontier in fuel economy By John G. Smith TAMPA, Fla. – If you’ll forgive the obvious pun, the latest frontier in fuel economy involves some out-of-the-box thinking. Specifically, manufacturers and fleets alike are exploring innovative ways to include trailers in fuel-saving strategies. “You need to look at the tractor and trailer as a system,” stressed Sam Waltzer of the US Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay Transportation Partnership, during a recent presentation to the Technology & Maintenance Council. Since 64% of the trailers on US roads are van trailers, the program designed to promote fuelefficient business practices will offer its stamp of approval to any 53-foot van trailers that improve fuel economy by 5%. California already requires gains like these to be made on trailers built since 2011, and reefers in the western state need to improve fuel economy by 4%. T he gains themselves can come through a series of steps. Tires with a reduced rolling resistance, for example, will improve fuel economy by 1.5% on their own. Further improvements can come from a combination of aerodynamic fairings, side skirts and boat tails. Michael Roeth, executive director of the North America Council for Freight Efficiency, said that many companies like Challenger Motor Freight are already embracing several enhancements. The Ontario-based fleet was included in a 2011 study – along with Schneider National, Werner, Con-Way, Ryder, and CR England – to measure which fuel-saving enhancements were being adopted. Results tracked the use of 60 available technologies, and the fleets were using about half of the available options in 2010, compared to 30% in 2003. With the changes in place, each tractor-trailer saved about $4,500 in fuel each year, enjoying average fuel economy of 36.7 litres per 100 kilometres. Without the changes, they would have been lucky to hit 39 litres per 100 kilometres. There should be little surprise that fleets turned to the fuelsaving options when diesel prices spiked in 2008, but the businesses also continued to invest in the technologies when the prices dipped in 2009 and 2010, Roeth said. And while trailer features such as boat tails, trailer skirts, and systems to control the gaps between tractors and trailers have not been around long, there has
12-03-12 2:50 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 63
council
cost-saver: Fleets at TMC found side skirts save fuel, even when accounting for maintenance issues.
been a rapid increase in related interest. Challenger Motor Freight is also spec’ing every new trailer so it can be used in a Long Combination Vehicle, he added. “It was very impressive to us.” Enhancements simply need to be matched to the specific ways that vehicles are used. From 0-55 km /h, most fuel economy improvements come from the powertrain, said Sandeep Kar, global director, commercial vehicle research at Frost and Sullivan. From 55-95 km/h, the difference is made with tires. But above that, the differences come from aerodynamics. Another area to consider will be the “soft” technologies such as telematics, which can remotely control equipment like reefers. One in every 10 North American trailers already has some form of telematics hardware in place, and that is double the amount that existed seven years ago. These tools offer “the easiest and best ways” to address trends like green legislation and rising fuel prices, he said. Supported with $2 million in funding from the US Department of Energy, Navistar is using a series of wind tunnels, track tests and fleet evaluations to find options that would improve tractortrailer fuel economy by 15%. Since 2008, these tests have explored multiple trailer gaps, fairings, skirts and boat tails, and wide-base single tires, said Kevin Golsch, chief engineer, aerodynamics at Navistar. The best combination has so far reduced aerodynamic drag by 25%, improving fuel economy by 12.5% at highway speeds. In a related survey of 256 fleets and owner/operators, fewer than 10% were using a trailer aerodynamic device or wide-base single tires. But more than two-thirds of those who used the equipment saw better fuel economy than they originally expected. Any barriers seem to include installation costs, the downtime associated with damage, weight sensitivities or a lack of service locations. About two-thirds of those in the survey were worried about a lack of available products, but that has changed. “Thanks to CARB (California Air Resources Board), many trailer OEMs are now offering skirts and wide-base single tires as a factory installed option,” Golsch says. “We are going to be approaching a number of the trailer OEMs regarding factoryinstalled boat tails over the next few months.” n
PRESENTLY HAS THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS AVAILABLE • 4 Owner Operators for Michigan B-Trains
at $1.53 per mile minimum + F.S.C. • 2 Owner Operators for Ont / Mi on aluminum 5 axles • 2 Owner Operators for Ont / Mi on steel 6 axles • 2 Owner Operators for Ont / PQ / NY on aluminum 4 axles
INDEPENDENT OPERATORS • With their own trailers and insurance welcome. • We offer Ontario year round work.
All loads pay on per ton basis. PLUS Fuel Surcharge with a minimum per mile guarantee.
WE PROVIDE • All Base Plates • All Border Crossings • Heavy Users Tax (HUT) • U.S. Border Crossing Decal • All U.S. Tolls • All U.S. Licensing • Wetline installation
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS • Competitive Truck Insurance rates • Fleet Insurance – includes buy down, down time, towing and medical insurance plus optional truck payment insurance • Excellent fuel prices with company fuel and credit cards • Clean and well maintained equipment • Steady year round volumes • Dedicated Trailers • Pre-dispatched Daily • Optional Weekend Work
Call Vern at 1-888-209-3867 or 519-536-1192
Dump Trailer Division Based in Woodstock, Ont. and Beloeil, PQ.
Page 64 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
technology & maintenance council
Stability mandate on the way, officials claim What you need to know about deploying stability systems in your fleet By James Menzies TAMPA, Fla. – Panelists discussing truck and trailer stability systems at this year’s Technology & Maintenance Council meetings agreed it’s just a matter of time before the systems are mandated in North America, but the type of stability system required and the timing of a mandate have “yet to be determined.” Tom Weed, engineering supervisor, ABS, with Bendix said there’s plenty of reason to expect a stability system mandate from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: there are 200,000 systems on North American roads today and they work well; Europe has mandated stability systems; and NHTSA already has mandated stability systems on passenger vehicles. What’s still unclear, however, is what type of stability system will be mandated and when. There are two types of systems available on the market today: electronic stability control (ESC) and roll stability systems (RSS). Weed said roll stability systems can protect against vehicle rollovers, but they do not prevent loss-of-control events, where a tractor-trailer jackknifes. ESC not only prevents rollovers, but also uses additional
sensors to detect when a vehicle is about to lose control, dethrottles the engine and applies the appropriate brakes to bring the unit back in line. Roll stability systems take the same corrective measures to prevent rollovers. Weed noted rollovers tend to occur on dry road surfaces as a vehicle is turning; the tires typically have a good grip on the road surface and they resist the lateral acceleration resulting in a rollover. On the other hand, loss-of-control-type accidents tend to occur on wet and slippery road surfaces. Rollovers, Weed noted, are more predictive in nature and as a result, a stability system will typically intervene more often to prevent rollovers than loss-of-control events. Weed pointed out all stability systems can “only be effective within the limits of physics.” He added “They can’t make a bad driver safe, but they can help a good driver return home,” noting even good drivers make the occasional mistake. One believer in the technology is Todd Cotier of Hartt Transportation Systems. After suffering four costly rollovers in the past eight years (with losses ranging from $195,000-
$250,000 per incident, plus the loss of a new account), Hartt began spec’ing stability systems on its new vehicles. While it’s early – the new trucks have only been in service for about six months – Cotier said the fleet hasn’t yet suffered a rollover since putting the stability systemequipped vehicles into service. Cotier said he’s now working with providers to deliver notifications of intervention events to management in real-time, so it can quickly engage the driver and offer remedial training if necessary. That is not an unusual request, Weed noted. “Some managers want an instant e-mail when an event occurs,” he said. “It doesn’t give the driver time to build up a story.” Still, with stability systems becoming increasingly prevalent, there are some maintenance-related issues that have arisen. For one, technicians need to be trained on the systems and will have to be comfortable with PC diagnostic software programs, pointed out Matt Williams, manager sales, service and training with Meritor Wabco Vehicle Control Systems. He said diagnosing stability systems is more complicated than analyzing blink codes. “Technicians will need PC diagnostics to go in and get this onboard data,” he warned. “Technician training is paramount.”
Fleets will also have to determine exactly how much data they wish to receive and how they wish to receive it, as well as develop a plan for what they intend to do with that data. When certain components are replaced or serviced (a suspension or steering column, for instance), the systems have to be recalibrated. This can be done with the help of PC diagnostic software. One fleet manager in attendance wondered if it was acceptable to change tire types, and was assured tires are completely interchangeable as long as the size remains consistent. Williams stressed tractor stability system retrofits are not permitted, due to the high level of communication between the system and the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). Trailer retrofits, however, are possible. Weed advised technicians to contact the OE before modifying a vehicle and to avoid moving the yaw rate sensor and lateral acceleration sensor. Lastly, Weed warned fleets implementing stability systems into their fleet to train drivers and to avoid the temptation to “road test” the system by intentionally triggering interventions on the highway. “It’s not a good idea,” he stressed, adding demonstrations in controlled environments are available through the suppliers. n
LOADS SIMPLIFIED INC. Professional, Hard Working A Family Owned Company is Hiring
TEAM OWNER/OPERATORS ONLY To Run California.
OffERiNg • Percentage Work • Charging a Brokerage fee of
ONLY 7% UP TO A MAX OF $2500/MONTH
• All invoices Shown Upon Request • Paid Trip by Trip through Direct Deposit
ASkiNg • Well Maintained California Ready Tractor and REEfER Trailer (No Matter What Year or Colour) • Ability to Cross Border • good Clean Driver & CVOR Abstracts
At Loads Simplified Inc. we believe that an Owner/Operator is the SOUL of the trucking industry. Therefore, it needs to be Nurtured, Enriched and Empowered, Now More Than Ever! That’s exactly what we are doing; One Owner/Operator at a time...
Call: 1.800.611.LSi4(5744) Email: recruitment@loadssimplified.com www.loadssimplified.com
pg 64 tn apr v3.indd 64
WE ARE PUTTING THE MONEY BACK WHERE IT BELONGS: IN YOUR POCKET SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!
12-03-12 9:19 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 65
oem/dealer news
Link to continue offering Raydan products
Allison rolls out service program INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Allison Transmission has launched a new national service certification program in the US and Canada, to ensure customers receive quality maintenance and repairs. The Allison Excellence program implements key performance metrics for Allison’s authorized distributors that are designed to provide customers with “the fastest, most accurate and cost-effective transmission service,” the company announced. Allison said it already requires distributors to have all technicians factorytrained, to use Allison-specific equipment and to maintain a comprehensive inventory of genuine parts. The new level of certification will require distributors also to meet aggressive customer service standards focused on timeliness of repairs, inventory stocking and responding to customer feedback, Allison announced. “No unauthorized transmission repair shop has the combination of Allison training, equipment and parts to perform maintenance or make needed repairs and return Allison transmissions to proper working condition as accurately, quickly and consistently as does an Allison authorized outlet,” said Dennis Breedlove, Allison transmission director, global channel development and aftermarket programs. “Allison Excellence outlets understand that every hour a vehicle is out of service is an hour in which that vehicle is not producing or generating revenue for its owner.” The new program has been rolled out to more than 165 certified service centres and to nearly 3,000 factory-trained technicians in the US and Canada, the company announced. To find a certified distributor, visit www.allisontransmission.com/excellence. n
EDMONTON, Alta. – Having completed its acquisition of Raydan Manufacturing, Link Suspensions of Canada says it will continue to offer Raydan products. Link said in a release that its acquisition of Raydan expands its reach into the heavy- and mediumduty truck and trailer markets as well as other commercial and vocational markets. Raydan will operate as a division of Link Suspensions of Canada and will continue to produce its products and provide chassis modifications from its Nisku, Alta. facility. Link will provide engineering, manufacturing and management support from its headquarters in Sioux Center, Iowa, the company announced. Raydan produces the Air Link walking beam suspension, Easy Slider sliding kingpin system and the Air Link for tandem steer applications. “For more than 20 years, Raydan has filled industry requests for
twin steer and heavy-haul applications for specialty and vocational trucks and trailers on wreckers, fire and rescue vehicles and for military, construction, cranes, oil field service, and refuse applications,” said Ray English, Raydan founder and general sales manager for the new Raydan division. “We are proud of our accomplishments and capabilities, and we look forward to continuing our growth with Link.” “I am pleased to welcome the Raydan team to the Link family,” added Jim Huls, Link vice-president and general manager. “This acquisition further strengthens Link’s overall family of products and capabilities and will benefit our expanded customer base. Moving forward, Link and Raydan customers will enjoy increased access to engineering and manufacturing capabilities, exceptional sales and service support, tried and proven product lines, and a strong commitment to customer service.” n
GE T PA YO PE UR R
s d e fi i s s a Cl
classifieds CLASSIFIEDS classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds CLASSIFIEDS classifieds classifieds classifieds CLASSIFIEDS classifieds CLASSIFIEDS clas
CA$H FOR INVOICE$
Same Day Funding • Immediate load approval for Load Link users • Flexible Funding Options • 24/7/365 Service
Canada’s National Trucking Newspaper and Equipment Buyer’s Guide
SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Bad Debt Collection Service Equipment Financing Solutions
“Over 20 Years of Trucking Industry and Finance Experience”
1-877-653-9426
www.liquidcapitalmidwest.com riacobelli@liquidcapitalcorp.com
TOLL FREE 1-877-743-5888 www.a-ztech.on.ca
299 Mill Rd., Unit 1510 Etobicoke, ON M9C 4V9 Wally Loucks (416) 626-1794 Fax: (416) 626-5512
Lease To Own Commercial, Industrial and Residential, Garages, Workshops, Equipment Storage, Warehouses, Offices, Quonsets. Before you build CALL or WRITE 26 Years in the Building Business 299 Mill Rd., Unit # 1510, Etobicoke, ON M9C 4V9
Company_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Title_______________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________________________________________ City__ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Province___________________________________________ Postal_Code________________________________________ Telephone:_(_______)____________________________________ Fax:_(_______)_________________________________________ E-Mail_____________________________________________
BOOKKEEPING Let RLH & Associates help you complete your 2011 year end. We will:
Your Bookkeeping Specialist 416-575-2662 ritahalporn@sympatico.ca
SCUGOG AREA Property for TRUCKERS 4.5 acres, M3 and M4 Zoning. Now used as Truck Transfer Station. For more details call Miro direct. 416-948-9983 Miroslav Polacek Sutton Group thepolacek@sympatico.ca www.miroslavpolacek.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS ONLY
Copy only
$129.00
Canada
1_Year_ _
2_Years_ _
pg 65 tn apr v3.indd 65
$ ❏ 42.95_
(+_applicable_taxes)
1
4
USA
$ ❏ 107.95_
Foreign
❏ Charge Card
$ ❏ 107.95
(+_applicable_taxes)
❏ Cheque Enclosed
Visa_No:_____________________________________ Mastercard_No:_______________________________
❏ 65.95
Cda._Single_Copy_ USA_Single_Copy_ Foreign_Single_Copy_
❏ $ 8.00 ❏ $10.00 ❏ $10.00
Amex_No:____________________________________ Qebec Residents Add QST (7.5%) To Total
Expiry_Date:__________________________________ Signature:
Date:
AB, MB, PE, SK, QC, 3 Territories Add 5% GST; BC, NF, NB, ON Add13% HST To Price; NS 15%.
DO_YOU_WISH TO_RECEIVE_OR (CONTINUE_TO RECEIVE
❏ YES_____❏_NO
w/Picture
Ad runs one month Also Advertise On-Line at: www.trucknews.com
1
Serial_#_from_code_line_on_mailing_label
E-mail: kpenner@trucknews.com
$99.00
Send us your new address in writing on this form.
Have your own!
Phone (416) 626-1794
· Organize your paperwork · Track revenues & expenses · Prepare the file (Excel or QuickBooks) for your accountant · Provide forms for you to use and/or train you to do your monthly tracking
MOVING? REQUALIFY?
READING SOMEONE ELSE’S COPY?
Signature Date
PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS 2) How many vehicles are based at or controlled from this location? Please indicate quantities by type: —_No._of_Straight_Trucks_ ______ No._of_Trailers _ _ ______ No._of_Buses _ —_No._of_Truck-Tractors_ ______ No._of_Off-Road_Vehicles 3) Does this location operate, control or administer one or more vehicles in any of the following Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) categories? Please check YES or NO: _ 14,969_kg._&_over_(33,001_lbs._&_over)..._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ 11,794-14,968_kg._(26.001-33,000_lbs.)._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ 8,846-11,793_kg._(19,501-26,000_lbs.)..._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ 4,536-8,845_kg._(10,000-19,500_lbs.)....._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ Under_4,536_kg._(10,000_lbs.)................_ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO 4) This location operates, controls or administers: _ Diesel_powered_vehicles.........................._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ Refrigerated_vehicles..............................._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ Pickups_or_Utility_Vans............................._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO_ _ Propane_powered_vehicles......................_ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO 5) Do you operate maintenance facilities _ at this location?_...................................._ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO _ IF_YES,_do_you_employ_mechanics?........_ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO
6) Indicate your PRIMARY type of business by checking ONLY ONE of the following: a)_ ❏_ For_Hire/Contract_Trucking_(hauling_for_others) _ b)_ ❏_ Lease/Rental _ c)_ ❏_ Food_Production_/_Distribution_/_Beverages _ d)_ ❏_ Farming _ e)_ ❏_ Government_(Fed.,_Prov.,_Local) _ f)_ ❏_ Public_Utility_(electric,_gas,_telephone) _ g)_ ❏_ Construction_/_Mining_/_Sand_&_Gravel _ h)_ ❏_ Petroleum_/_Dry_Bulk_/_Chemicals_/_Tank _ i)_ ❏_ Manufacturing_/_Processing _ j_i)_ ❏_ Retail _ jii)_ ❏_ Wholesale _ k)_ ❏_ Logging_/_Lumber _ b)_ ❏_ Bus_Transportation _ m)_ ❏_ Other_(Please_specify)__ 7) Are you involved in the purchase of equipment or replacement parts?_._._._._._._._._._._._.___ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO 8) Are you responsible either directly or indirectly for equipment maintenance?_._._._.___ ❏__YES_ ❏__NO
CLIP_and_MAIL With Payment_to
80_Valleybrook_Drive, Toronto,_Ontario M3B_2S9
TODAY!
12/03/12 3:45 PM
Page 66 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
oem/dealer news
Volvo announces new approach to aftermarket support By James Menzies TAMPA, Fla. – Volvo Trucks has announced a new approach to aftermarket support for its products, including two years of free access to its MVASIST platform. As part of the overhaul, MVASIST will henceforth be known simply as ASIST. “We are announcing a new aftermarket support suite of services under the Volvo Trucks Support Services umbrella,” David Pardue, Volvo Trucks vice-president of aftermarket solutions told Truck News at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings. “This allows us to take previously separate, individual activities we’ve done in the past for parts and service and extended agreements and bring them together under one common umbrella.” Key to the organizational changes, ASIST will now be offered free
of charge for two years on new Volvo trucks. The ASIST communications platform allows fleets to better communicate their service requirements with dealers, in many instances eliminating phone calls and creating an online filing cabinet for service records. Pardue said fleets that have been using ASIST rave about it, but the uptake has been slower than Volvo would like because it’s a difficult concept for dealers to communicate to truck buyers. “We’ve had very favourable response from customers who use our ASIST software,” he said. “It’s largely been liked, but not understood. It’s a difficult sales message at the dealership so now we’re putting it out there (for free).” ASIST also is available as an aftermarket product for existing vehicles, Pardue added, and is sold on
a subscription basis once the initial two-year trial expires. Steve Hayes, a software platform expert with Volvo, demonstrated ASIST to Truck News at TMC. He said in the event of a breakdown, fleet maintenance managers typically waste a lot of time playing phone tag, waiting on hold, leaving or listening to voicemail and looking up service records written on notepads and stored in filing cabinets or boxes. “I don’t care how sophisticated they are, it’s the same process,” he said of small and large fleets alike. Hayes cited one study that indicated a common maintenance-related event requires five phone calls and 32.5 minutes on the phone, 20 minutes of which is spent on hold or listening to or leaving voicemail. Hayes pointed out Mail Contractors of America conducted in inter-
nal audit that found an average of US$300 is spent just managing documents when an event occurs. With ASIST, customers are able to customize the program to their own needs, so Volvo dealers can adhere to the customers’ preferences. It also provides records of all communications, which are conducted online, and displays the initial estimate and final invoice so fleets can be assured they are not overpaying for services. Hayes also said ASIST eliminates he said-she said disputes, which “are very common in the industry. They’re the roots of most complaints.” Pardue said Volvo is hoping that as more fleets have the chance to experience ASIST, they’ll see the benefits. He also said the changes now make big fleet-type access to resources available even to onetruck operators. n
12-L ISX G coming from Cummins Westport COLUMBUS, Ind. – Cummins has expanded its on-highway natural gas engine lineup with the Cummins Westport ISX12 G and an amended joint-venture agreement with Westport Innovations. The ISX12 G is built on the Cummins ISX12 and uses the same base engine and key components. It features Cummins Westport’s sparkignited combustion technology with stoichiometric-cooled exhaust gas recirculation (SEGR), first introduced on the 8.9-litre ISL G. The engine will run on either compressed or liquefied natural gas and is expected to be immediately certified to meet the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (ARB) emissions standards of 0.2 grams per brake horsepowerhour Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and 0.01 grams per brake horsepowerhour Particulate Matter (PM). The engine is expected to meet Euro VI and pending US greenhouse gas and
big ac t t o f o l l o w : This Pete won Best of Show in the 2011 Shell SuperRigs competition. Next year’s event will be helpd in Joplin, Mo.
Joplin Speedco to host SuperRigs contest JOPLIN, Mo. – The Shell Rotella SuperRigs show will be celebrating its 30th anniversary at the Speedco in Joplin, Mo. May 17-19. Cash and prizes in excess of $25,000 will be awarded to the top working trucks that show up, including coveted spots in the SuperRigs calendar. Organizers are also planning a truck parade through downtown Joplin as well as concerts and fireworks. Speedco will play host this year. It’s located off Route I-44 at Exit 11. The company will be holding a grand re-opening celebration during the event, after its facilities were badly damaged during last year’s tornado. Shell says it will reveal more details about its SuperRigs competition at the upcoming Mid-America Trucking Show. n
Great Selection of New VOLVO Trucks! (8) 2012 (7) 2013 VNL 670’s
(2) 2012 VNL630’s
(8) 2013 VNL 780’s
D13-475, 13 & I-Shift, 12.5/40’s, Air 52.
D13-500 & ISX 485, I-Shift/13 spd., 77" bunk, 13.2/40’s, Air 52.
D13-485 and 500 H.P., 13 spd., 77" bunk, 13.2/40, 54 & Air 54.
E-mail: Driving Success.®
00
$
Driver Medical Exams
. 60
ONTARIO DRIVERS WALK-IN MEDICAL CLINIC
Website:
sales@expresswayvolvo.com
fuel efficiency regulations. The ISX12 G is maintenance-free and will feature three-way catalyst aftertreatment packaged as a muffler, according to officials. Ratings up to 400 hp and 1,450 lb.-ft. of torque and an optional engine brake. “The ISX12 G will be well-positioned to lead in heavy-duty vocational and regional-haul markets,” said Ed Pence, Cummins vice-president and general manager of heavyduty engine business. The ISX12 G is entering the final stages of field-testing and will be manufactured at Cummins’ Jamestown engine plant in Jamestown, N.Y. in 2013. Partial funding in support of the ISX12 G engine development has been received from the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the California Energy Commission in conjunction with the Gas Technology Institute. n
www.expresswayvolvo.com
21 Queensway West Mississauga, Ontario (Directly Across From mississAugA HospitAl)
(5) 2008 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA MBE 450, Eaton 13, A/R, 228" W.B., 850K-1000K. $49,900.*-$57,900*.
(4) 2009 VOLVO VNL670
Volvo D13/485, I Shift, A/R, 212" W.B., Red.
2011 VOLVO
237K, Volvo D13/485, Volvo I Shift 12 spd. Make An Offer.
1-800-558-7364 or (519) 632-9777
WATERLOO
pg 66-67 tn apr v3.indd 66
Volvo D13/435, I Shift, 570K-777K. $52,900-$57,900.* *Plus Applicable Taxes
EXPRESSWAY TRUCKS 2943 Cedar Creek Road, Ayr, ON
(10) 2008 VOLVO VNL670
Jason Queenen
Dave Linsemen
Tony Cybulski
Colin Murphy
Jeff Osborne*
*In the Owen Sound/Palmerston area
9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 7 Days a Week No appointment necessary
(905) 897-9228
12/03/12 5:07 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 67
Transtex sues Green Ridge for trailer fairing patent infringement MONTREAL, Que. – Transtex Composite says it is suing Ridge Corporation for patent infringement over alleged violations of eight patents related to aerodynamic trailer side skirt technology. The company is seeking injunctive relief against the infringement as well as damages. “Intellectual property is something we take very seriously as we believe breakthrough innovations will occur only if IP rights properly protect significant investments in research and development,” said Patrick Beauger, executive vice-president at Transtex Composite. “Products infringing on our patents are being sold and we are taking action against such infringement.” Transtex Composite produces the Maximum Flex Skirt (MFS), which it says improves fuel economy by up to 7.3%. n
Daimler first to meet 2014 GHG/fuel economy standards PORTLAND, Ore. – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has certified DTNA’s complete portfolio of model year 2013 on-highway, vocational and medium duty vehicles as fully compliant with the new greenhouse gas 2014 (GHG14) regulations. The company achieved compliance a year ahead of schedule of the EPA and the Department of Transportation’s Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s first program for reducing heavy- and medium-duty truck GHG emissions. Under GHG14 regulations, trucks and buses built in 2014 through 2018 are projected to reduce oil consumption by 530 million barrels and GHG emissions by 270 million metric tonnes. The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration and EPA designed the GHG14 standards to address climate change, as well as to improve fuel efficiency and reduce oil consumption. EPA designed the GHG standard under the Clean Air Act, and NHTSA included the fuel efficiency standard as a part of the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA). “Through early certification to this new standard, we continue to exemplify our position as undisputed market leader,” said Mark Lampert, senior vice president of sales and marketing, DTNA. “This achievement is unmatched in the commercial vehicle industry, and we are proud to be pacing the industry in technologies that not only reduce greenhouse emissions, but also improve fuel economy for our customers.” n
Beaver Truck Centre named Canadian Volvo Dealer of the Year WINNIPEG, Man. – Beaver Truck Centre has been named the 2011 Volvo Trucks Canadian Dealer of the Year. The announcement was made at last month’s American Truck Dealers Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. “Barry Searcy and the Beaver Truck Centre team know the transport industry and are committed to providing customers with top-notch service,” said Brent Weary, vice-president of marketing and sales with Volvo Trucks Canada. “Barry is a visionary, who back in 1996, took a broken down property and transformed it into a state-of-the-art facility which has been designated a world class Volvo dealer.” Beaver Truck Centre offers a 19,000 sq.-ft. parts warehouse, 22-bay service department and employs more than 80 staff members. n
Wakefield Canada wins national award for being a great place to work TORONTO, Ont. – Wakefield Canada has been named among the Top 50 Best Small and Medium Employers in Canada. The company ranked in the top half of the list this year at number 20. The study, now in its seventh year, is published in The Globe and Mail. “We’re delighted to receive this accolade for a fourth straight year. This recognition is particularly important because it is based on the feedback that every member of Wakefield had an opportunity to provide during the employee survey process,” said Bob MacDonald, president of Wakefield Canada. “Our seventh anniversary will be
pg 66-67 tn apr v3.indd 67
celebrated this summer; we are delighted how far our company has come during this period and are committed to build an internal culture that continues to be recognized by our employees as a great place to work.” The national awards program recognizes top employers with between 50 and 400 employees. Rankings are determined primarily using the results from employee opinion surveys. The evaluation process also includes the assessment of organization practices and perspectives from the leadership team. This year, more than 250 companies across Canada registered to participate in the study. n
West Van acquires Toronto’s Blue Star Trailer Rentals TORONTO, Ont. – West Van has acquired Toronto-based trailer rental company Blue Star Trailer Rentals. Blue Star’s assets include approximately 1,600 rentable trailers, mainly 48-ft. and 53-ft. cartage trailers and specialty transport trailers. Blue Star was founded by Robert Kerr in 1985. After Kerr’s passing in 2010, Joel Rose, a longtime friend of Kerr and senior partner for Aird and Berlis, was appointed executor of Kerr’s estate. Rose managed the operation of Blue Star since 2010 and facilitated the acquisition and transition. In addition to expanding West Van’s service capability, officials say the Blue Star acquisition brings the company’s fleet size to in excess of 4,000 units.
“The two legacy trailer rental businesses are now one. The Blue Star acquisition was a natural fit in West Van’s expansion plan and we welcome the staff and clients of Blue Star into our family,” said Richard Gladden, CEO of West Van. “We welcome the addition of the Blue Star team, and the additional product lines they have in their inventory,” added Rick Kloepfer, president and COO of West Van. “We can now offer specialized heavy-haul equipment, along with shunt tractors and, of course, a variety of dry vans to all of our clients. This addition to our fleet as well as our new locations in Cornwall and Calgary will allow us to serve both our local and national clients better than ever.” n
ON-SITE KINGPIN REMANUFACTURING
• Superior Equipment • Exceeds SAE and DOT specifications/regulations • Only Company to test SAE J133 & J400
• Patented in U.S.A. & Canada • Guaranteed Workmanship • Fully Insured
CWB CERTIFIED COMPANY • CWB CERTIFIED WELDERS
KINGPIN GAUGES
Top Quality aluminum Kingpin gauges. Won’t stretch.
Re-manufacturing a kingpin gives the fifth wheel the proper bearing surface, extending the life of the fifth wheel and decreasing the abuse to the bolster plate and kingpin.
MOBILE SERVICE
Visit our Website at: www.kingpinspecialists.com E-mail: rkingpin69@aol.com Call us Toll Free @
1-888-221-7774 For the Dealer Nearest You
Toll Free Numbers For Your NearesT Dealer Quebec and the Maritimes 1-888-939-1011 Ontario 1-888-221-7774 Western (Alberta & Saskatchewan) 1-877-912-1209 British Columbia 1-800-427-5865 In the U.S. 1-888-221-7774
www.kingpinspecialists.com • rkingpin69@aol.com
12/03/12 5:09 PM
Page 68 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
oem/dealer news
Capacity to offer three eco-friendly engines by end of next year
LONGVIEW, Texas – Capacity of Texas has announced it is expanding its terminal truck lineup to include three eco-friendly options by the end of next year. They include a zero-emissions terminal truck powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology, a propane hybrid due out in late 2012 and a GM V8 propane engine that will be available by the end of 2013, the company announced. The company claims already to offer more engine choices than any other terminal tractor manufacturer. “The number of engines we offer is substantial. With Capacity, customers can customize the truck to for their operation and not have to build their operation around the limitations of other trucks,” said Jerry Looney, vice-president of sales and marketing with Capacity. The company currently offers the Cummins (QSB T3, T4i and ISB10), Cummins Westport (for CNG/LNG), Navistar MF7 ’10, Ford V10 Propane/Gas, Diesel and Electric Hybrid. n
Arrow Truck Sales offers greater protection on late model used trucks TORON TO, Ont. – Arrow Truck Sales is now offering a 90-day/40,230-km warranty on 2005 or newer Class 8 and medium-duty trucks. The ConfidencePlus program provides coverage on the truck’s major components, including engine, transmission and rear ends. It also covers the injectors and fuel pumps, Arrow announced. On 2008 model year and newer trucks, coverage extends to the turbochargers, radiator and electronic control module. Cumulative claims of up to US$10,000 are permitted during the warranty period with no deductible, the company announced. The coverage is available through US and Canadian Arrow Truck Sales dealers. “We’re extremely proud to offer this industry-leading warranty on the equipment we sell to our
customers,” said Steve Clough, president of Arrow Truck Sales. “ConfidencePlus is just one more example of the innovation in warranties that Arrow has introduced through the years to make our customers experience with purchasing pre-owned truck buying the best in the industry.” “ConfidencePlus is truly heads above other ‘standard’ warranties currently offered in the marketplace on pre-owned trucks,” added Ken Kosic, director of operations at Arrow Truck Sales. “In all my years in the pre-owned truck sale industry, I’ve never seen a program like this. You won’t find this much coverage on 2005 and newer model year trucks. It’s unprecedented and raises the bar on standard warranty programs. There’s no doubt about it, we stand behind the trucks we sell.” n
We have been supplying Parts, Service and Technical Support to Truck Shops, Dealers and Fleets since the early '80’s. GENUINE
now Offering Battery Boxes
in-Frame
Side Frame combined
powder coated Steel
Stainless Steel
t o p t ec h a c h ie v emen t : Ed Saxman, powertrain product manager with Volvo, pictured with the TWNA Technical Achievement Award at TMC.
dieSel particulate Filter Cleaning Service and Repairs ASH lOADeD
CleAN
clean
filters
$$
save $
DPf a rePlac fter-Marke t e now aMvent filters aila
ble
1850 gage crt. miSSiSSauga
RAD COOLANT PIPES
teXiS
Available in Aluminized or Stainless Steel
Built to Outlast OEM Pipes Pipes also available for Freightliner, Peterbilt and Western Star
Open SaturdayS & WeeknightS 8 AM - 8 PM FRI 8:30 AM - 3 PM SAT
8 AM - MIDNIGHT MON - THURS
905-795-2838 1-800-267-4740 Fax (905) 678-3030
Canada & U.S. Hotline
www.texisexhaust.com
pg 68 tn apr v3.indd 68
Volvo wins 2011 TWNA Tech Award TAMPA, Fla. – The Truck Writers of North America (TWNA) have awarded Volvo the 2011 Technical Achievement Award for its XE13 powertrain package. The award was presented to Volvo Trucks powertrain product manager Ed Saxman by TWNA Technical Achievement Award Committee chair and Truck News editor James Menzies at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings. The annual award, now in its 21st year, recognizes a product or service that clearly exhibits technical innovation, has a wide applicability in the trucking industry, offers significant benefits and is widely available. Complete vehicles do not qualify, but components and systems do. The Volvo XE13 powertrain package introduces the concept of ‘downspeeding,’ by combining a set of specifications – including Volvo’s IShift automated manual transmission – that collectively allow the engine to run about 200 rpm slower than the average truck sold today. That translates to a fuel savings of about 3% compared to a similarly specified truck with an overdrive transmission. “Volvo’s XE13 powertrain package brings the concept of running slow to a new level,” said Menzies. “Several members of the committee
have had the chance to drive a Volvo VN equipped with the new powertrain package and we were all very impressed with how it performed on the road.” “It’s an incredible honour to be recognized by the Truck Writers of North America,” said Ron Huibers, president, Volvo Trucks North American sales and marketing. “We truly appreciate their thorough evaluations of our XE13 package, a proprietary solution that provides just a glimpse at the future potential of Volvo Trucks’ integrated powertrain.” Saxman, who received the award on behalf of Volvo, added: “The benefits of ‘downspeeding’ an engine are intuitive – lower engine rpm results in less fuel consumed – but virtually impossible to achieve without a perfectly harmonized powertrain. The intelligence of the Volvo I-Shift and proprietary software used in the XE13 package has created an incredible paradigm shift, so we now see the transmission controlling the engine.” The six finalists for the award were: The Bendix EverSure spring brake; the Fontaine/Volvo integrated fifth wheel; Goodyear’s G392 SSD/SST DuraSeal wide-base tires; RigDig’s Truck History Reports; Spectra’s Hub Alert; and the winning Volvo XE13 powertrain package. n
13/03/12 11:03 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 69
advertisers’ product/service index ACCOUNTING INSURANCE Stage Coach International....... 16 Burrowes Insurance Brokers.. .. 43 Innovative Insurance............. 16 AIR CONDITIONING NAL Insurance.. .................... 24 Reefer Sales & Service............ 12 National Truck League.. .......... 10 Sleeping Well.. ....................... 8 Northbridge Insurance........... 45 ANNOUNCEMENTS LIFTS Trucker Radio.......................... 34 Hyva.. .................................. 7 Northbridge Insurance........... 45 Owner Operator of the Year........ 20 LOAD SECURITY AUXILIARY POWER UNIT Ancra.. ................................ 18 Reefer Sales & Service............ 12 LUBRICANTS BOOKKKEEPING Castrol/Wakefield Canada....... 41 RLH and Associates.. .............. 65 Centerline Truck Lube.. .......... 22 Chevron Global Lubricants.. .. 4,21 BUILDINGS Shell Canada Products Ltd....... 25 A-Z Technical Bldg. Systems.. ... 65
TRAILER PARTS & SERVICE Action Trailer Sales................. 9 Benson Trailer Specialists....... 11 Glasvan Great Dane.............5,10 Kingpin Specialists................ 67 Reefer Sales & Service............ 12 Trailers Canada..................... 78 West Van Rental.................... 75 TRAILER SALES (NEW) ABS Trailers......................... 32 Action Trailer Sales................. 9 Glasvan Great Dane.............5,10 Great Dane Trailers.. ..............80 Manac.................................30 Trailers Canada..................... 78 West Van Inc........................ 75
TRAILER SALES (USED) Action Trailer Sales................. 9 MEDICAL SERVICES Glasvan Great Dane.............5,10 Ontario Drivers Medical.. ........66 Trailers Canada..................... 78
BUSINESS CONSULTANTS C.U.T.C. .............................. 73 Stateside Transportation TRUCK LEASING Consultants.. ..................... 35 MOTORHOME FOR SALE Sheehan’s Truck Centre.......... 17 Transport Financial Services.... 69 Motorhome For Sale............... 73 TRUCK PARTS & ACCESSORIES ON-BOARD SCALES CAREERS Dawson Truck Parts.. .............44 Truck News/Careers........ 46,47,48, Air-Weigh............................ 74 Morgan’s Diesel Truck Parts.. ...38 .............. 49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56 Setco Canada.. ...................... 69 ............... 57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64 OWNER OPERATOR OF THE YEAR.... 20 Sheehan’s Truck Centre.......... 17 Truck News/Driver Link............ 77 Truckpro............................. 42 Truck ops............................. 72 RADIATORS XL Radiators.. ....................... 71 Atlantis Radiator Truck Auto TRUCK SALES (NEW) CHILD FIND/MISSING KIDS......... 71 Service.. ........................... 35 Expressway Volvo Trucks.. ......66 King Radiator....................... 15 CLASSIFIED........................... 65 XL Radiators.. ....................... 71 Freightliner......................... 2,3 International........................ 23 Mack Canada........................ 39 CLIMATE CONTROL REAL ESTATE Sheehan’s Truck Centre.......... 17 Reefer Sales & Service............ 12 Sutton Group.. ...................... 65 Volvo..................................79 CROSSWORD TRUCK SALES (SHUNTS, YARD REFRIGERATION Apr 12 Crossword Puzzle.. ......... 15 XTCC Reefervan.. .................. 43 TRACTORS) Apr 12 Crossword Solution.. ....... 73 Capacity of Ontario.. .............. 27 Glasvan Great Dane................ 5 SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE DISPATCH PROGRAM West Van Inc........................ 75 TransCore LinkLogistics......... 35 Stateside Transportation DUMP BOXES Cottrill Heavy Equipment.. ...... 15 ENGINES Cummins.. ........................... 31 EXHAUST Texis Truck Exhaust..............68 The Truck Exhaust Place.. ....... 13 FINANCING Riviera Finance..................... 71 FIFTH WHEELS SAF-Holland.........................29
Consultants.. ..................... 35
TRUCK SALES (USED) Arrow Truck Sales................ 77 SUBSCRIPTION TO TRUCK NEWS.. .. 65 Morgan’s Diesel Truck Parts.. ...38 Expressway Volvo Trucks.. ......66 TANKER SALES (NEW & USED) Sheehan’s Truck Centre.......... 17 Dependable Tank.................. 14 Hutchinson Industries............36 TRUCK SERVICE & REPAIR Tankmart International.. .........40 Benson Truck Service.. ........... 11 Centerline Truck Lube.. .......... 22 Cottrill Heavy Equipment.. ...... 15 TIRES & TIRE SERVICE Dawson Truck Parts.. .............44 Bandag.. .............................. 37 Sheehan’s Truck Centre.......... 17 Benson Tire.. ........................ 11 XL Radiators. . .......................71 Goodyear.. ........................... 19
TRAILER LEASING & RENTAL HEATERS Action Trailer Sales................. 9 Espar..................................26 Glasvan Great Dane.............5,10 Reefer Sales & Service............ 12 Trailers Canada..................... 78 Sleeping Wel......................... 8 West Van Rental.................... 75
TRUCK SHOWS Fergus Truck Show................ 70 Truck World......................... 33 TRUCK STOPS Flying M.............................. 72
AlphaBETICAL LIST OF ADVERTISERS A-Z Technical.. .......................... 65 ABS Trailers............................. 32 Action Trailer Sales ...................... 9 Air-Weigh On-Board Scales.. ..........74 Ancra......................................18 Arnold Bros. Transport.. ............... 51 Arrow Truck Sales...................... 77 Atlantis Radiator Truck Auto Service.. .. 35 Bandag................................... 37 Benson Truck Service.. .................11 Big Iron Transport...................... 50 Bruce R. Smith.......................... 56 Burrowes Insurance Brokers......... 43 Capacity of Ontario...........................27 Caravan Logistics.. ..................... 60 Career Opportunities.. .......46,47,48, ............... 49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56, ................ 57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64 C.A.T...................................... 55 Castrol/Wakefield Canada.............41 Celadon Canada........................ 49 Centerline Truck Lube................. 22 Challenger Motor Freight.............. 47 Chevron Global Lubricants.......... 4,21 Child Find-Missing Kids.. ........... 71 Classified............................... 65 Cottrill Heavy Equipment...............15 Crossword Puzzle & Solution... 15,73 Cummins Inc... .......................... 31 C.U.T.C.................................... 73 Davy Truck Sales........................74 Dawson Truck Parts.. .................. 44 Dependable Tank........................14 Dennis Fortier Transport.............. 46 Don Anderson Haulage................ 46 Doyle Transportation.. ................. 61 Espar..................................... 26 Expressway Volvo Trucks............. 66 Fergus Truck Show.. ................... 70 Flying M.................................. 72 Freightliner.. .............................2,3 FTI.. ....................................... 57 G&B Transportation.................... 61 Glasvan Great Dane.................. 5,10 Goodyear.. ................................19 Great Dane Trailers.. ................... 80 GTI Roll Transportation................ 62 Holmes Freight Lines.................. 50 Hutchinson Industries.. ................ 36 Hyva........................................ 7 Innovative Insurance....................16 International............................. 23 International Truckload Services.. ... 53 Jeff Bryan Transport................... 50 Keypoint Carriers....................... 62 King Radiator.............................15 Kingpin Specialists..................... 67 Laidlaw Carriers (Bulk/Dumps)...... 63 Laidlaw Carriers (Tank).. .............. 58 Laidlaw Carriers (Vans).. .............. 53 Liquid Capital Midwest................ 65
Loads Simplified........................ 64 LMB Transport.......................... 61 Mack Canada.. .......................... 39 Manac.................................... 30 McGillion Transport.. ................... 55 Morgan’s Diesel Truck Parts.. ........ 38 MotorHome For Sale................... 73 Musket Transport.. ..................... 57 NAL Insurance.......................... 24 National Truck League.. ................10 Navistar.................................. 23 Nine North Logistics................... 46 Nolan Transport.. ....................... 50 Northbridge Insurance.. ............... 45 Ontario Drivers Medical............... 66 Owner Operator of the Year Award...20 Precision Specialized.................. 59 Reefer Sales & Service.................12 Rideway Transport..................... 50 Riviera Finance.. ........................ 71 Ryder Logistics & Transportation.... 48 SAF-Holland............................. 29 Scotlynn Commodities.. ............... 52 Schneider National..................... 54 Scott-Woods Transport................ 46 Setco Canada........................... 69 Sheehan’s Truck Centres.. .............17 Shell Canada Products Ltd............ 25 Sleeping Well.............................. 8 Skylark Logistics....................... 59 Stage Coach International.. ............16 Stateside Transportation Consultants....35 Sutton Group............................ 65 Synergy Transportation.. .............. 50 Tankmart International................ 40 Texis Truck Exhaust.................... 68 The Erb Group Of Companies.. ....... 60 The Rosedale Group.. .................. 60 The Truck Exhaust Place...............13 Thorsons................................. 61 Thunderstruck Trucking............... 57 Trafalgar Supply........................ 61 Trailers Canada......................... 78 TransCore LinkLogistics.. ............. 35 Transport Financial Services......... 69 Trans-Send Freight.. ................... 57 Truck News/Truck Ops.............. 72 Truck News/DriverLink.. ............ 77 Truck News – Subscription.. ....... 65 Truck World.. ............................ 33 Trucker Radio.......................... 34 TruckPro................................. 42 Volvo...................................... 79 West Van Trailers....................... 75 White Oak Transport................... 63 Woodcock Brothers.................... 55 XL Radiators.. ........................... 71 XTCC Reefervan........................ 43 Young Transportation – American Division.. ................... 58 Young Transportation System........ 50
Drop by our booth #5449
pg 69 tn apr.indd 69
13/03/12 4:34 PM
Page 70 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
oem/dealer News
Seeking stability Skeptical about active safety systems? A demonstration on the snow and ice could change that. By James Menzies HOUGHTON, Mich. – This pretty, historic town located on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is as good a place as any to demonstrate safety systems co-developed by Volvo Trucks and Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems. The Keweenaw Research Center affords the opportunity to put Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology (VEST) and Volvo Enhanced Cruise (VEC) through its paces in a harsh, yet controlled environment. It was here that
a small group of truck journalists and certain Volvo customers found ourselves in mid-February for a demonstration of the latest Volvo safety systems. VEST, an electronic stability system that intervenes when collisions are imminent to prevent loss-of-control and rollover accidents by dethrottling the engine and applying select brakes, has been an unmitigated success for Volvo. Introduced in 1990, VEST is now standard on Volvo trucks and in December 2010, the com-
pany put into service its 50,000th VEST-equipped vehicle. Frank Bio, product manager, trucks, with Volvo, proudly noted “We produce over half of the trucks out there with enhanced stability technology.” VEST is useful because while some drivers are safer than others, no driver is perfect and there are certain instances where a driver deserves a second chance. Bio noted 93% of large truck crashes are chalked up to human error, and many of those could be prevented with a little intervention from an electronic stability system. On a blustery February day, we hit the icy, snow-packed surfaces of the Keweenaw Research Centre’s demonstration grounds to try VEST first-hand. Safety VEST I rode along with Jeff Drown, a Bendix test driver, in a Volvo VHD dump truck for a demonstration of VEST on a snow-packed
Since 1986
circle track. While Volvo trucks don’t typically have an on/off switch for the VEST system, for demonstration purposes the trucks we were riding in were rigged with a toggle switch that allowed the driver to provide system-on and system-off comparisons. We started out with the VEST system turned off and I was surprised – even in icy conditions – at how little effort was required to get us facing in the wrong direction. We had the track to ourselves on this day, but a similar scenario on the highway would be nothing short of terrifying. “Once the truck starts coming around, I have to react right away,” Drown explained as we slid through a corner. “You can see how slick it is right here, it’s not responding at all. We’re just at the mercy of the truck and it requires a lot more inputs, a lot more skill to keep it from going around.” We did another lap with the system turned on and it was far less exciting, but in some instances, boring is good. With the system on, Drown was able to maintain control of the truck and keep it pointed in the right direction with comparably little steering wheel input. The comparison was night and day. Adding VEC
4th weekend in July | Fergus, Ont www.fergustruckshow.com
SHOW & SHINE
TRUCK & TRACTOR
PULLS
TRADE SHOW
LIVE
ENTERTAINMENT
Largest truck show of its kind in North America
pg 70-71 tn apr v3.indd 70
Another system Volvo now offers is Volvo Enhanced Cruise (VEC), a collision avoidance system that warns a driver when a rear-end collision is imminent and, when cruise control is active, dethrottles the engine, applies the retarder and if necessary, applies the service brakes to prevent an accident. If the truck is equipped with an automated transmission – even the non-proprietary Eaton UltraShift – the system can even perform a downshift if required. The interventions are accompanied by audible alerts, which work whether or not cruise control is activated. Until recently, VEC would only apply the brakes when the vehicle was in cruise control, but the newly added feature Volvo Active Brake (VAB) changes all that. “Volvo Active Brake is the next evolution in the VEC system,” explained Fred Andersky, director of marketing for the controls group of Bendix. Volvo Active Brake is capable of applying two-thirds of the system’s braking power – up from one-third previously – through VEC, and it doesn’t require cruise control to be activated. “It does the same thing (as VEC), but independent of whether or not cruise is on,” Volvo’s Bio explained. The feature will be offered in May and built into any new Volvo truck spec’d with VEC. With Andersky behind the wheel and a brave soul piloting an ominously named “target” vehicle, we set out on the slick demonstration area to perform some maneuvers. Fortunately, the system worked as advertised, otherwise the folks at Bendix and Volvo would still be extracting pieces of SUV out of the front end of a blue VN780. The target vehicle obliging-
12/03/12 5:10 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 71
k eepin g it u pr ig h t : Volvo included its pink breast cancer awareness truck as part of a demonstration of its active safety systems.
We Ship Across Ontario
Open 6 Days A Week! . Rd n de id Gl
Kennedy
Rd. S.
s ele
e.
Av
d.
E.
e
St
#10 Hale Road, Brampton, ON L6W 3M1
Co
Hwy 401
.
Avenue Rd
ron
*
.
Rutherford Rd. S. ✸
Bram Ct.
Mon.-Fri.: 8 am-6 pm • Sat.: 9 am-2 pm
Water St.
.
Hale Rd.
ke R
n Blvd
Selb
y Rd
rt La
Frankli
Hea
Ainslie St. S
pg 70-71 tn apr v3.indd 71
Service & Repair For All Truck & Industrial Radiators & Charge Air Coolers
.
Another feature incorporated into VEC is stationary object detection, which warns drivers when a metallic object has stopped in their path. It could be a stalled car or a random object, such as an appliance that has fallen off a vehicle. In our case, an abandoned snowmobile served as the stationary object in our lane of travel. The system issues an audible alert that can provide up to three seconds of additional notice for a driver, allowing the driver to change lanes, ideally, or brace for impact in a worst-case scenario. VEC is built upon VEST, to provide a complete active safety package. “The (VEC) system is built on top of VEST for a couple of reasons,” Andersky explained. “First of all, when you build a collision mitigation system on top of a rollonly system, you’re not using all the brakes; you’re going to use the drive and trailer brakes but with a full stability system like VEST, you are going to use the driver and trailer brakes and also the
In the final round of demonstrations, a Bendix test driver showed how effective ABS and traction control are when coupled with VEST on a split coefficient surface. For our purposes, a strip of asphalt was conveniently laid out alongside a patch of glare ice. With the ABS system turned off, we didn’t have a chance, and were pointed in the direction from which we came as soon as a subtle brake application was applied. With ABS and traction control activated, not to mention VEST, the Volvo recognized it was on a split coefficient surface with asphalt on one side and ice on the other, adjusted the braking force on the sticky side accordingly and allowed us to come to a stop while still pointed forward. It was a remarkable demonstration, which highlighted the value of ABS and traction control. It is difficult to participate in a demonstration of VEST and VEC and not be convinced the systems work as advertised and have the potential to reduce collisions. Still, they’re not free. While VEST is standard on Volvo trucks, there are some savings that can be had by removing it when ordering a new truck. VEC lists for about another $1,500 to $2,000, although the price, as they say, is negotiable. To prove there’s real value in spec’ing the safety systems, Volvo has created a user-friendly crash cost calculator. Plugging in some rather conservative numbers and considering the average truck suffers 2.2 accidents per million miles, it’s clear there is a payback possible if the systems provide even a modest reduction in accidents. “Even as little as a 10% reduction in non-injury crashes can pay for VEST and an air bag in less than three years,” Bio said. And that’s to say nothing of the injury – or worse, fatal – crashes that systems like VEST and VEC can conceivable eliminate. n
Visit us at Truck World Booth #3433
Radiators Inc.
Showing off ABS
ler Rd
Stationary object detection
steer axle brakes, so you get more balanced braking distribution and of course more braking power. We also do it because it’s not just about collisions. Drivers face all sorts of situations and accidents can be pretty complex. So, helping with rollovers, loss-of-control (accidents) and collision mitigation really makes this a very complete active safety package.”
Hespe
ly drove ahead of us as we travelled at 38 mph with cruise control activated. When the SUV slowed down, our VN did too, even though Andersky’s feet were clearly not on the brake. The truck we were operating was set up to provide alerts when our following distance fell below 1.5 seconds, but the settings are fully configurable. When the speed of the vehicle in front of us picked up, the VN was able to resume its cruise speed without any driver input, as long as the service brakes weren’t applied. Lights on the Volvo dash also provided a visual cue for drivers when a safe following distance was compromised, but it’s hoped drivers don’t have their eyes glued to the dash display. If they do, that could be the reason for the alert in the first place. At slower speeds, drivers will receive only a single audible alert, an attempt to remedy frustrations over excessive alerts – a common complaint with Eaton’s Vorad system before it was acquired by Bendix and incorporated into its own system. “Drivers got a lot of beeps on the old Vorad systems and they became background noise,” Andersky said.
ati
on
Blv
d.
D Cambridge unda
sS
t. S
d.
Clyde R
S C
New Location .
Main
Main St
St. E
525 Clyde Rd., Cambridge ON N1R 5S7 Conce
905-487-1209 • 1-877-950-0099
t. ssion S
519-621-1209 • 1-888-991-1209
After hours call: 905-487-1209
After hours call: 519-621-1209
4 Hr. Drive-In Service For Most Trucks!
Steven O’Brien Missing Since: March 20, 1993 Date of Birth: May 14, 1974 Missing From:
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Height: 5’7” / 170cm Weight: 145lbs / 66kg Eye Colour: Brown Hair Colour: Dark brown Characteristics: Wears glasses
iF YOU HAve AnY inFOrMAtiOn ABOUt tHiS MiSSinG PerSOn,
PLeASe viSit OUr WeBSite
missingkids.ca
Or CALL US tOLL-Free
1-866-KID-TIPS (1-866-543-8477)
Or COntACt YOUr LOCAL POLiCe DePArtMent. ALL CALLS COnFiDentiAL. missingkids.ca is a program of and trade-mark of
Child Find (Ontario) Inc. is an affiliate of the Canadian Centre for Child Protection Inc. Together, they provide missing children services in the Province of Ontario.
12/03/12 5:11 PM
Page 72 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
new products
Great Dane overhauls entire trailer line SAVANNAH, Ga. – Great Dane has revamped its complete product line, introducing the Champion dry van, Everest refrigerated trailers and Freedom flatbed. The trailer manufacturer has dubbed its transformation ‘Evolution,’ and said the changes were necessary to keep pace with the rapidly changing industry. “The last two years have been filled with tremendous change for us as a nation and as a company,” said Bill Crown, president and CEO of Great Dane. “In addition to a turbulent global economy, our own corporate leadership team weathered an unexpected transition. Instead of allowing circumstances to determine our future, the team at Great Dane accepted these challenges as the perfect opportunity to revolutionize the trucking industry by setting a new benchmark for quality. This is just one part of our long-term commitment to continually raise the industry’s standards for products, sales and service.”
n ew c h a mp: Great Dane’s new Champion van trailer, part of a product revamp.
Great Dane says the new line of trailers represents its best-ever product mix. Each of the three trailer types will include three models. The Everest TL and Everest SS are designed for the longhaul truckload reefer market while the Everest CL is a high-spec offering for grocery and multi-temp applications, the company announced.
Great Dane offers free roadside assistance TAMPA, Fla. – Great Dane has rolled out a new emergency roadside service program as part of its AdvantEDGE platform, which is free of charge to members, whether or not they are Great Dane customers. The program provides full coverage in the US, Canada and even Mexico, drawing from a network of 20,000 service providers. It covers towing, tractor and trailer repair, tire failures, reefer unit repairs and other roadside failures 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the company announced at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings. “We had a tremendous reaction to the launch of our AdvantEDGE program, which provides customers with cost-effective, streamlined access to parts and service at more than 100 participating Great Dane distributors throughout North America,” said Dave Durand, v.p., aftermarket parts. “The availability of emergency road service is a crucial part of the safety and security of both personnel and freight for our customers. Now, AdvantEDGE members can rest assured knowing we are prepared to deploy assistance around the clock.” Brandie Fuller, vice-president of marketing with Great Dane Trailers, told Truck News the program has been made available to everyone, in hopes they will appreciate the service and turn to Great Dane for trailers, parts and service if they aren’t already Great Dane customers. “There’s no charge for the subscription,” she pointed out. Customers will pay only for the roadside service they receive. The program applies to all Classes 7 and 8 vehicles and trailers. The invoicing is handled through Great Dane’s AdvantEDGE program and estimates are provided up-front, Fuller noted. Customers can access billing records online and enjoy the consistent pricing available through Great Dane’s signature parts price protection program. Customers can enroll in the program or find out more by visiting www.greatdanetrailers.com/advantedge or by calling 877-506-9582. n FlyingM_ad_F_PRINT_r.pdf
5/13/11
3:58:26 PM
The Champion SE is spec’d for heavy-duty productivity for fleets, while the Champion CL is a versatile freight van that can be spec’d for various needs and the Champion CP boasts Great Dane’s composite panel technology. On the flatbed side, the Freedom SE is a heavy-duty all-steel f latbed trailer with available straight, drop or extendable bod-
ies. The Freedom LT combines steel and aluminum for lighter weight and the Freedom XP is an even lighter-weight option, coming in at 1,000 lbs less than the LT, the company says. The van trailers will debut Great Dane’s new EnduroGuard, a reinforced, corrosion-resistant rear frame for improved strength. The trailers will also feature LED lamps with dual-intensity lights. PunctureGuard will be the standard lining on refrigerated trailers, the company announced. Meanwhile, the company has redesigned its logo, adding a reflective background and polished chrome rim. “Changes to our corporate logo are subtle enough to rejuvenate its image but maintain brand recognition,” said Brandie Fuller, vice-president, marketing at Great Dane. “We’ve updated the oval with modern touches, but are moving back to all red markings on our products to honour the history of the brand, which has been red since 1951.” The new trailer line will be showcased at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky. March 22-24. n
Smaller, lower-cost version of SmartTruck undertray system unveiled at TMC TAMPA, Fla. – SmartTruck has unveiled a new low-cost version of its trailer undertray system. The UT-1 model was unveiled at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings, providing fleets with a lower-cost, smaller version of its CARB-approved fuel-saving device. SmartTruck says it has already started production and delivery of its new UT-1 system, which also consists of fewer parts. “The UT-1 System builds on SmartTruck’s growing history of performance and reliability to provide fleets a rugged, durable, CARB solution now at a low cost with less than one hour of installation time,” said Mitch Greenberg, president of SmartTruck. “The UT-1 System is becoming a very popular choice with many fleets looking for this type of aerodynamic solution.” SmartTruck says its UT-1 model delivers 5.5% fuel savings at high-
way speeds. It features a twocomponent design and can be installed by one person in less than an hour, the company claims. The system improves airflow underneath the trailer and also cools temperature-sensitive tires and brakes. The UT-1 also provides significant ground clearance to avoid yard and road obstacles. “The new system uses the same aerodynamic design approach as our UT-6 System – by using the airflow around the trailer to reduce the high-drag, low-pressure wake behind the trailer,” said Mike Henderson, CEO and chief designer, SmartTruck. “The UT-1 System can be easily upgraded to the UT-6 System by adding a single component, and both systems improve tire and brake cooling.” The system is distributed in Canada by Northern Aerodynamics Solutions. For more info, visit www.SmartTruckSystems.com. n
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Office: 519 652-2728 l Fuel Desk: 519 652-3392 l Restaurant: 519 652-2310 l E mail: flyingm@execulink.com l www.facebook.com/flyingmtruckstop
pg 72-73 tn apr v3.indd 72
13/03/12 10:45 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 73
Espar releases new heater controllers MISSISSAUGA, Ont. – Espar Heater Systems has released a pair of new heater controllers: the Multi-Max F1000 and the Digi-Max D1000. The Multi-Max F1000 serves the needs of the Hydronic line of engine coolant heaters, while the Digi-Max D1000 serves the needs of the Airtronic D2/ D4 bunk heaters. Multi-Max F1000
n ew c r ew c a b : Hino’s new Model 195 cabover crew cab will get the entire work crew to a job site in comfort, the company claims.
Hino introduces new COE crew cab Model 195 MISSISSAUGA, Ont. – Hino Motors Canada has come out with an all-new cabover engine crew cab configuration for its 2013 Model 195. The new truck is built on Hino’s 19,500-lb GVWR cabover engine chassis and will begin arriving on dealer lots in March, the company announced. Hino also plans to showcase the new truck at Truck World in April. The four-door, six-passenger cab provides ample interior room and features a magnetic suspension seat. The company says drivers 6’6” tall can fit inside the cab. The truck is powered by a 5.1-li-
tre Hino diesel engine with 210 hp and 440 lb.-ft. of torque. Standard features include: air conditioning, keyless entry and Bluetooth. “With the recent introduction of the new Hino COE models, Hino Motors Canada has been setting new company sales records,” said Eric Smith, vice-president of sales at Hino Canada. “The release of the Hino 195 Crew Cab is an exciting addition to Hino’s expanding product line to further its prominence in the marketplace. This new product is ideal for getting the entire work crew along with all the materials to the job site in one trip.” n
Trailer tail launched for roll door trailers TAMPA, Fla. – ATDynamics has introduced a trailer tail for roll door trailers, which the company says will save 4-5% in fuel at 60-65 mph. The new RollTail’s fuel savings were validated through SAE Type II testing, Andrew Smith, CEO and founder of ATDynamics said. “A lot of fleets have been asking for a roll door solution,” he told Truck News during a demonstration at the Technology & Maintenance Council meetings. “This involves zero driver interaction. You back right into the loading bay, it moves out of the way, you unload your cargo and when you pull away from the loading bay it goes back into shape. We have looked at different ways of doing this and it turns out we have an incredibly simple design.” Smith estimates there are about 100,000 trailers with roll-up doors in Canada and another 500,000 or so in the US. If the entire population of trailers with roll-up doors were to be fitted with RollTails, Smith estimated the trucking industry would save US$3 billion in fuel over the next decade. Smith told Truck News that work continues in Canada to have full-sized trailer tails approved for use. ATDynamics has a shorter system that complies with Canadian regulations, however the fuel savings aren’t as significant as with its standard size TrailerTail. As a result, Smith said most Canadian companies interested in running the system are opting for the full-sized version – which can deliver 5-6% fuel savings – while in the US and then folding in the system while in Canada. The RollTail is available as a retrofit device or for factory installation. Smith said two people can install the system in 45 minutes. He noted the device does not affect trailer loading or cube capacity and will be certified by the EPA SmartWay program as well as CARB. n
This month’s
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Company officials say the Multi-Max gives fleets complete control over their pre-heat coolant heaters, by no longer requiring drivers to program and run their vehicle’s coolant heater. By introducing a desktop programmer and a Micro SD card slot, the Multi-Max gives “tamper-proof” control of every aspect of every heaters’ operating parameters based on each vehicle’s individual work schedule. Programming takes less than five minutes, according to officials, with programmable features that include: as many as four distinct events per day, each with a different start and finish time, triggered on whatever day of the week that vehicle is in use; a high temperature disable set point; a maximum manual run-time; a low voltage disable set point; a preferred PM interval; and an exercise scheduler. Through the Micro SD card slot, those same settings can then be used to program one, or multiple vehicles’, heaters. Other features include a tricoloured LED light with a simple flash code that notifies drivers when the heater needs either routine or unscheduled attention and one-button
pg 72-73 tn apr v3.indd 73
Officials say the Digi-Max D1000 controller gives drivers maximum control and real-time information. Designers added a larger display screen to accommodate features such as constant heater status display, temperature set point, and a runtime countdown clock. The Digi-Max is also designed to help isolate problem shut-offs through a ‘Check Heater’ indicator and simplified diagnostic service messages, the company says. Additional tools and features designed for drivers include easier-to-operate controls through a larger screen and simpler menu, and descriptive fault code messages to help navigate service issues more quickly. Officials say maintenance technicians will appreciate the depth and quality of information they can access, which helps with quicker and more accurate diagnosis of service issues. They add fleet managers will appreciate the complete control the Digi-Max offers, via its maximum run-time limiter, customized PM schedule alerts, and a programmable low-voltage shut-off. n
jerry@jerryvandyke.com or 519-651-9051 ON Canada.
C.U.T.C. Trucking made Simple
www.trucknews.com
Digi-Max D1000
1988 PREVOST MOTORHOME MARATHON: This beautiful 40’ x 102” coach has a 1988 PREVOSTBYMOTORHOME BY MARATHON 8V92This engine and a 5-speed Allison transmission. It has traveled 188,000 beautiful 40' x 102" coach has a 8V92 engine and a 5-speed Allisonmiles trans-and we have owned it 12 years, 188,000 and are miles the second owner. As you itcan thisand coach looks mission. It has traveled and we have owned 12 see years are the and second is just like new.AsThe is this spotless and welland cared for.like Thenew. coach is inside licensed owner. youinside can see coach looks is just The is in spotless and well The coach licensed Ontario, Canada alwaysFor Ontario, Canada and cared alwaysfor.stored insideisand can bein seen in AYR, ON. and $109,000. inside and be seen in AYR, ON. $109,000. morestored information orcan email pictures, contact: jerry@jerryvandyke.com or 519-651For more information or email pictures, contact: 9051, ON, Canada.
is brought to you by
TRY IT ONLINE AT
on/off control designed for ease of use. “By taking the driver out of the programming process, running your coolant heaters means no more unnecessary idling, no more needless engine wear-and-tear, no more wasted time, and no more wasted fuel,” officials said in a release. “With the MultiMax F1000 as soon as your workers arrive on site, they’re guaranteed to climb into a warm, de-iced and workready vehicle.”
For more information call
Petra Voelker
INC
• Canadian Licensing • FMCSA (ICC Authority) • DOT Registrations • IFTA Registrations • Fuel Tax Reporting • Unified Carrier Registration • PARS/PAPS/ACE • Corporate Registrations • Regulations • IRP Registration • Bonded Carrier Status
866-927-8294 13/03/12 10:47 AM
Page 74 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
new products
Rand McNally has come out with a new software platform called Rand McNally Connect, which provides seamless integration between its FleetWatcher Web portal and third-party applications, including most major fleet management systems. The first customers to implement Randy McNally Connect will be those working with TMWSuite/Total Mail and TMW TruckMate. The goal is total integration between the FleetWatcher portal and a fleet’s existing fleet management system for improved monitoring of hours-ofservice, truck and trailer availability and dispatch options. For info, visit www.RandMcNally.com.
Truck-Lite has expanded its line of LED headlamps with a new 5”x7” version. The company says its new LED headlamp provides smooth, even light output while meeting or exceeding FMVSS-108 and CMVSS-108 DOT requirements. Truck-Lite says the transition to 12-volt LED headlamps for forward lighting requirements result in brighter, crisper and whiter light output while offering longer life and improved reliability. For more, visit www.truck-lite.com.
Fontaine Trailer Company is now offering its patented RASR (Routed Aluminum Siderail) standard on its 2012 line of Infinity platform, dropdeck and twistlock container trailers. The RASR is a one-piece aluminum extrusion that the company claims is lighter than steel while boasting improved impact damage resistance. It’s also faster, easier and more convenient to work with when securing loads, the company says. For further info, visit www.fontainetrailer.com.
Dana has announced it is expanding its lightweight Spicer Diamond Series driveshaft, making it applicable to about 60% of North American trucking applications. The Diamond Series driveshaft is a one-piece aluminum drive-
shaft that is constructed utilizing two patented manufacturing processes that allow Dana to reduce weight significantly without compromising strength, the company says. The technology earned Dana a Frost & Sullivan Technological Innovation award. The newest offerings now cover applications requiring driveshafts as long as 130 inches. • Phillips Industries has come out with a Sta-Dry Tracker swivel nosebox, which it says will significantly upgrade and improve the connection between the tractor and trailer, reducing downtime and saving fleets money. The new design will reduce the chance of damage to air and electrical cables, the nosebox, connectors and gladhands when maneuvering the truck and trailer in tight spaces, the company announced. The StaDry Tracker allows the cable to simply follow the movement of the truck and can accommodate turns of up to 80 degrees and will automatically disconnect if necessary, the company announced. For more, visit www.phillipsind.com. • Xantrex has come out with a second version of its Freedom HF Inverter/Charger, which the company says is one of the industry’s lightest, smallest and most affordable inverter/chargers on the market. A new 1,000W model is available with a 55A charger for large battery banks, and upgraded 1,000W/20A and 1,800W/40A models are also offered. Features
include an ignition lockout, which disables the inverter when the ignition is turned off to prevent battery drain, a quick-connect AC terminal block on both AC input and output for easy wiring and fast installation, and CFCI and hardwire options for greater flexibility. For more info, visit www.xantrex.com.
The Ontario Trucking Association is now offering all its Webinars for one all-inclusive price under its OTA-GE Webinar Season Pass program. Customers can pay an annual fee of $500 for access to all Webinars scheduled for the year. The OTA says it will be teaming with GE to provide up to 50 one-hour Webinars, equating to a cost of roughly $10 per Webinar. For more information, visit www.ontruck.org.
•
Walter Surface Technologies has come out with a Bio-Rust solution that it says eliminates rust on iron and mild steel. The product can be used anywhere rust forms, including steel prior to painting or coating, the company says. Maintenance workers in the transport industry can use it to clean “even the most intricate mechanisms,” the company claims. No special clothing is required as it’s userfriendly and safe. For details, visit www.walter.com. n
people
QuickLoad for the Quickest ROI NEW QuickLoad Trailer Scale!
Economical on-board weighing for air ride trailers Dramatically reduce your loading time!
www.Air-Weigh.com
pg 74 tn apr v3.indd 74
1-800-253-0276
Trailer Wizards has promoted Edmonton brand manager Gary Myroniuk to vice-president of the company’s prairie region. Prior to joining Trailer Wizards, Myroniuk was the branch manager of SSF Transport, the pool car division of the Kingsway Group of Companies. He then joined Lions Gate Trailers, one of the founding companies of Trailer Wizards, in 1987 where he continued to build the branch for over two decades. “We’re fortunate to have someone as experienced in the industry who relates so well to fleet owners, dispatchers, drivers and everyone in between,” says Trailer Wizards president, Doug Vanderspek. “Gary is a critical thinker with excellent business sense and we’re excited to watch him take on the role of regional growth in the prairies.” • Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has named Fred Andersky as its new director of government affairs. Andersky, who had served as the director of marketing for the controls group at Bendix, will now be responsible for managing the company’s government efforts with federal, state, and local legislators, as well as industry regulators. Andersky joined Bendix in 2005 as the marketing manager of electronics. In March 2008, he was promoted to director of marketing for the controls group and was responsible for helping grow the company’s safety technologies portfolio. • John Hammond has joined Fontaine Trailer as the company’s new
Canadian regional sales rep. “Canada is a big part of our growth plan, and we know it is impor ta nt to have a sales rep on the g rou nd to make it happen ,” sa id Hank Pro chazka, president of Fontaine Trailer C om merh a mmo n d cial Platform Business. “John has many years of experience in the Canadian trailer industry, and we are excited to have him on board.” Prior to joining Fontaine, Hammond was in charge of sales for a Canadian trailer manufacturer, where he established new markets and developed relationships with customers. Hammond will be based in Orangeville, Ont. • TransRep has announced the addition of Jeremy Drumm as its national sales representative. Drumm has an extensive background in representing brand name products and services including Hitachi Power Tools and The Shandex Group, according to company officials. “We have experienced steady growth in our customer base as we have expanded the services being offered by TransRep. Jeremy’s experience and enthusiasm will play an important role in our growth strategy,” said Kim Richardson, president of TransRep. n
13/03/12 10:49 AM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 75
profitability dashboard
Freight costs rise for tenth straight month
TransCore Canadian Spot Market Freight Index 2007-2011
2007
2008 2009 2010 2011
2012
% % Change Change Y-O-Y m-o-m
Jan
173
214
140
171
222
220
1%
Feb
174
217
117
182
248
Mar
228
264
131
249
337
Apr
212
296
142
261
300
May
280
316
164
283
307
Jun
288
307
185
294
315
Jul
219
264
156
238
245
Aug
235
219
160
240
270
Sep
206
203
180
234
263
Oct
238
186
168
211
251
Nov
227
143
157
215
252
Dec
214
139
168
225
217
TORONTO, Ont. – Results published by the Canadian General Freight Index (CGFI) indicate that the cost of ground transportation for Canadian shippers increased 1.1% in December when compared with November results. After the tenth consecutive monthly increase, the CGFI is now 8.1% above the December 2010 result. The Base Rate Index, which excludes the impact of accessorial charges assessed by carriers remained essentially the same in December versus November. Since December 2010, base rates reported by the CGFI have risen only 0.8%. Increasing accessorial charges (including fuel surcharges) are the primary driver of increasing freight costs for Canadian shippers. In December, the average accessorial charges assessed by carriers increased to 27.8% of base rates, up from 26.7% in November, and 24.3% in October. “During the winter months, it is not uncommon to see increases in nonfuel accessory charges as a result of seasonal shipping and winter conditions,” said Doug Payne, president and COO of Nulogx, which facilitates the CGFI. “While we expect these to decline in the spring, we are continuing to monitor the impact rising fuel prices has on shipping costs.” n
1%
TransCore Canadian Spot Market Freight Index 2007-2011
TransCore’s Canadian Freight Index starts 2012 with slight uptick TORONTO, Ont. – TransCore’s Canadian spot market freight index saw a steady start to the new year with volumes increasing 1% from December, while yearover-year it was off slightly by 1% from January 2011. Intra-Canadian loads accounted for 28% of the volume. Top regions for loads within Canada were: Western (53%), Ontario (23%), Quebec (18%), and Atlantic (6%). Equipment postings in January increased 11% from the previous month, while year-over-year capacity was unchanged from January 2011. The equipment-to-loads ratio increased from December, matching the volumes recorded in January 2011. TransCore’s Canadian-based Loadlink freight matching database constitutes the largest Canadian network of carriers, owner/operators, freight brokers and intermediaries and has
been available to Canadian subscribers since its inception in 1990. More than 13 million full loads, less-thantruckload (LTL) shipments and trucks are posted to the Loadlink network annually. As a result of this high volume, TransCore believes its Canadian Freight Index is representative of the ups and downs in spot market freight movement and provides a historical account of the domestic and cross-border spot market freight movement. The first six columns include monthly index values for years 2007 through 2012. The seventh column indicates the percentage change from 2011 to 2012. The last column indicates the percentage change from the previous month to the current month. For the purpose of establishing a baseline for the index, January 2002 (index value of 100) has been used. n
US truck tonnage settles after December surge WASHINGTON, D.C. – US for-hire truck tonnage plummeted 4% in January, but American Trucking Associations chief economist Bob Costello warned there’s no reason to panic. The ATA’s truck tonnage index was coming off a strong December in which tonnage surged 6.4%. The contraction in January still puts tonnage 3.6% ahead of January 2011 numbers, the association reported. For all of 2011, tonnage rose 5.8%. “Last month, I said I was surprised by the size of the gain in December. Today, I’m not surprised that tonnage fell on a seasonally adjusted basis in January simply due to the fact that December was so strong,” Costello said. He added December’s increase was the largest month-to-month gain since January 2005. “I’m still optimistic about truck tonnage going forward. In fact, while many fleets said January was normal, they are also saying that February has been pretty good so far,” he said. n
RBC purchasing managers’ index finds output, new order growth remain modest TORONTO, Ont. – The headline RBC PMI – a composite indicator designed to provide a single-figure snapshot of the health of the manufacturing sector – posted 51.8 in February, up from 50.6 in January, and signalled a modest improvement in Canadian manufacturing business conditions. Index readings above 50.0 signal expansion from the previous month; readings below 50.0 indicate contraction. The RBC PMI found that both new orders and output increased in February. The rates of growth were modest, however, and the second-weakest in 17 months of data collection. Meanwhile, Canadian manufacturers hired additional staff in February, in contrast to job losses in January, and the rate of input price inflation strengthened to a six-month high. “While we observed a modest improvement from January’s sharp slowing, the Canadian manufacturing sector’s growth rate remained tepid in February,” said Craig Wright, senior vice-president and chief economist at
RBC. “On a more promising note, the slight uptick in manufacturing employment is in line with our view that Canada’s broader labour market will shake off its recent slump and start to ramp up again in the months ahead.” Firms largely linked the improvement in Canadian manufacturing business conditions to greater client demand. Approximately 22% of panellists received a larger volume of new orders during the latest survey period, with growth modest overall. In contrast, new export orders fell for the second month running, with the rate of decline the sharpest since the survey began in October 2010. Reflective of larger new order requirements, Canadian manufacturers raised production and depleted stocks of finished goods in February. The monthly survey is conducted in association with Markit, a global financial information services company and the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC). The report is available at www.rbc.com/newsroom/pmi. n
CV net orders down, but healthy in February COLUMBUS, Ind. – North American medium- and heavy-duty Classes 5-8 commercial vehicle preliminary net orders for February were down from January, according to a report from ACT Research. The final numbers, slated to be released mid-March, will approach 22,500 units for heavy-duty Class 8 trucks and 12,800 for medium-duty Classes 5-7 vehicles. The preliminary net order numbers are typically accurate to within 5% of actual, ACT officials said. “February net orders were incrementally below expectations,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst at ACT Research. “However, healthy backlogs and strong orders over the previous four months continue to support our forecasts for 2012.” n
Step-deck and double drop
RGN floats Variety of Specs.
www.westvaninc.com 275 Carrier Drive Toronto, On M9W 5Y8
416-679-9339 • Fax: 416-679-8338
Also Available: storage and road vans, tandem, tridem and extendible chassis
SHUNT TRUCKS:
Daily, weekly, monthly rentals, and long term leases
Free one way trailer rentals to Calgary.
pg 75 tn apr v3.indd 75
13/03/12 2:47 PM
FICTION FICTION
Part 1
Part 2
Mark Dalton: Dalton:Owner/Operator Owner/Operator Mark
Licence renewed Taxes can be so taxing
Illustration by Glenn McEvoy
By Edo van Belkom
The story so far… Mark is looking for a load. Bud has a sweet one to California that won’t be ready for a few days. In the meantime, Bud asks Mark to help an older driver, By Edo van Belkom get his licence reCharlie Knowles, newed. Charlie’s realfrom character and There was another a letter the governMark agrees to help out. ment. This one, like the one before, was
from the Canada Revenue Agency. He • put it aside atop the pile of junk mail he’d Mark had out agreed help prepare just cleaned of histo post office box. Charlie Knowles for all the He kept the PO Box so he’d tests havehe a needed to complete in order to get his place where information he couldn’t get commercial driver’s licence renewed, over the phone could be sent, and so he but what that meant, Mark didn’t have could receive the mail he couldn’t get via a clue. Other than a physical every e-mail. The government might have offew years, Mark hadn’t been tested on fered an e-mail option, but he’d have to his driving ability since he’d first reopen to find out.that had been ceivedthehisletter licence and The tax people had been sending him some 15 years ago. How could he preletters for a while now. He’d put the first pare someone for something he didn’t couple in the round file without opening know anything about? them, then he onto mightthe have misplaced So and he logged Internet and achecked few others the way.Ministry To be honoutalong the Ontario of est, there had been many them Transportation’s Websosite, but of was unhe’d trackanything of where about they’d all went.liablelost to find driver As far as Mark concerned, he cence renewals forwas commercial drivers paid hisover. taxesAlthough on time,Mark filed wasn’t his GSTa 65 and computer genius,and he’dforused thereasons, Internet claims regularly, those before and could usually find what he the government had no reason to bothwas looking for, so his results were er him. And that’s how he looked at this puzzling. section for drivletter, as a There bother.was It allastemmed from a ers renewing their licences over 80, bad experience he’d had with Revenue and all kinds of ago help after with renewing exCanada years an accident pired licences and booking appointwhen he’d been unable to drive and had mentsreceiving for new tests, but nothing been disability chequesabout from what Mark wanted to Mark an insurer. Almost a yearknow. had passed wondered he’d missed something on before he if was informed that income the site, but to the best of his abilities tax wasn’t being taken off any of the he couldn’t find anything about the cheques and it was up to him to send MTO’s licensing policy regarding oldthe money to Ottawa. er commercial drivers. Once he filed his taxes the government Mark had hoped that the Web site sent him a bill over $5,000, which would help himfor understand the reasontook him months to pay. During that ing behind the policy, but the fact time that he constantly short money to live on he was couldn’t find anything – even using because dollar he had was the site’severy own spare search engine – made going to thethat government. him think perhaps the program By too the time paidministry off his bill, he was new,he’d or the wasn’t was on of hisit,taxes thejust next year, very late proud or it for was another so not filingkind a return was the easiest thing tax-grab of program like Drive to do because by to thebetime he real did reafile, Clean. There had some he’d fined $1,000 or more intointerest sonsbe drivers were required jump through ofhe hoops justThankfully because on top ofall thesorts taxes owed. their most recent birthday was he’d never gotten sick during that their time 65th? Mark wanted know whateven they because if he’d beentoout of work were, so he decided to call them up for a few weeks, the money crunch due and ask. to back taxes would have been even It took a while before he got conmore severe. nected to a humanthat being could It’s no wonder he’dwho come to answer his questions, but when equate letters from the governmentthe to rightnews woman finally came line bad to his bottom line on andthe found she was pleasant and professionthem easyboth to ignore. If he didn’t open it, al. he wouldn’t get any bad news, simple “How can I help you?” as that. But that way of thinking eventuMark decided to start slowly. “Yeah, ally began to change. my dad is a truck driver and he’s 64
right now, but his birthday’s coming up in a month, and he’s scared to death of losing his licence. That isn’t going to happen is it?” “Not if he renews his licence.” In“This time,year?” Mark realized he had to start “And year after 65.” business operatingevery his owner/operator “That doesn’t fair.meant He hasn’t like a professionalseem and that buyhad a problem in years…in fact was he’s ing a new truck. The only trouble never had an accident in his life.” that when he went to his bank for a loan, sir, but research they“That’s wantedadmirable to see tax statements for the has shown that older drivers are last few years to verify his incomemore and likely to develop medical conditions make sure he’d be able to pay back a that affect their ability to drive. After loan and the interest payment that went 65, drivers are one-and-a-half times with it. more likely to have an accident than And so, reluctantly, he had to file sevdrivers between 45 and 64.” eralShe returns and cycle started all sure. over knew herthe stuff, that was for again. And Mark could concede the fact that managed to break thehad cycle by asHe drivers got older they more working for a broker. health issues. So an eye test and a A broker made life easier for him in physical were probably a good idea, regards record keeping taxit.filing but that to didn’t explain the and rest of “So because to keep why do everything they have he to needed be road-tested himself too?” up-to-date was taken care of by theShe broker. In a few years he was back paused, as if thinking. “The lion track with the government anddevelwas cence renewal process has been oped with thea help of ready to buy new and truckconsultation and make the the people in the industry to enhance transition to full-time owner/operator. truck Still, safety. he didn’tThat trustincludes himself tore-assesstake care ment of a person’s driving of his finances on his own. ability.” He’d heard Markofsighed, he probably plenty storiesknowing about drivers who, wasn’t going to get anywhere with when money got tight, decided to this do woman. “You and know, a do lot nothing of drivers their own taxes then for to rentonly trucks andthemselves trailers tointake ahave few years to find the their tests, costing same jam Mark hadthem beenmoney in. and a day off work just to keep their licence.” Mark vowed not to head down that “That’s unfortunate.” road again and took on the services of “And if a driver has been on the an accountant who made sure his GST road 40 years without a problem, why payments were right and on time and should he have to prove he can still who taught him about a lot of expenses drive? That seems like age discriminahe eligible to claim, but just wasn’t tionwas to me.” taking the time toregularly keep track of his ex“The ministry reviews the penses or that he simply didn’t know renewal requirements. If you have conabout. cerns – as you obviously do – then I For example, Mark to neverthe knewOntario that he suggest writing could claimMinister, all of the or banking fees on his Transport your member of personal account. It wasn’t much, provincialbank parliament.” but“Write a few dollars every month could add a letter?” up “Yes, to a hundred or more dollars that he sir.” didn’t have to pay on by the of Mark hung up taxes the phone. ‘Soend be it,’ thought If there’s a test, then it the year. Mark. And then there was his personwas jobdidn’t to make Charlie al car.his Mark own asure car anymore passed it. but when he did, he’d never claimed any
mileage on it for things • related to his business, like a drive into the office to collect Mark met Charlie in some the parking lot or of a paycheque or file papers, a truck yard out by the airport. Charlie even a weekly trip to the bank to manwas his sitting in his pick-up at the far end age fortune. ofAnd the yard and when Mark then there was his GSTpulled refund.in, heThe wasted no time getting out his government wanted Markofand truck and hopping into Mother Load. drivers like him to file his GST claims He scaled the cab so easily and quarterly. Mark had enough trouble slipped in the open passenger side filing a tax return once a year, never door so effortlessly, Mark would have mind four times, so an accountant was a never have guessed the man was a
sound senior business citizen. investment. Especially so when a monthly GST refund on aasked truck “You Mark Dalton?” Charlie payment ofScottish $2,000accent. equaled nearly a in his thick $1,000 “You each don’t quarter. remember me?” What small business could operate Charlie looked at him strangely. fluidly without “Should I?” an injection of that much cash every few months? Mark smiled and related the story of Mark’s kept him from the early accountant days of hisalso truck driving career when he’dclaims been on recently making bogus his taxdivorced returns, andkind he’dwhich, let hisover personal the time, appearance might catch get out of hand. He’d looked like a the attention of an adjuster in Ottawa. bum, but Charlie had called him a losIn the past Mark had claimed haircuts er. “Do you remember that?” and sunglasses as business expenses, Charlie’s as sun he reasoning that eyes his hairnarrowed grew and the looked Mark over. “Aye, I remember. shone while he was driving. You a loser then. Thewere trouble was that his You hair still grewcould and be. I don’t know that much about you.” the sun shone all the time, not just while had considered thanking the he Mark was driving. The accountant also disman for shaking him up enough to get couraged him from claiming a hot tub (it his life back on track, but it didn’t seem helped him relax after a long haul) and the right time for it now. a dog (a security system) as business ex“How much you gonna charge penses. Apparently, hot tubs are luxury me?” item and lap dogs not car “What?” Markare said. He alarms. hadn’t Who knew? thought to charge anything. As far as was doing much more aware of heNow, knewMark he was Bud a favour. what legitimate business “Did were Bud tell you you’d have expenses to pay?” and“He considered the I’ve cost called of an accountant didn’t, but around to and diligent and tracking of of expenses to be the schools some them charge as important to the successful $3,000... and that’s just for aoperation refresher of his business as fuel-efficient driving course.” and“That’s properatruck Sure the lot ofmaintenance. money.” services of an or bookkeep“You bet it’saccountant a lot of money, especially might when cost I’ve him beena driving truck twice er bit of money, but it as long as the snot-nosed boy who’ll was a small price to pay compared to be money teaching hasreceive been as onathe planthe heme could result of et.” expenses or tax benefits he wasn’t even Mark but he aware of.was Andaware to top itofallthe off,insult, his accouncouldn’t help but smile. Charlie tant’s fees were a genuine businesswas exsuch aand character. Who else could insult pense there would be someone in someone was doing his corner who if there was ever something a problem nice the for government. them? “BudLike asked with now.me to do this. I wasn’t going to charge There had to be a problemyou withanyso thing.” many letters being sent. What passed for a smile appeared
theprice letter. is onReluctantly, Charlie’s Mark face. opened “Then the Dear he Mr.said, Dalton…the lettertobegan. right,” continuing stare at Markthrough could feel the bloodeyes. drain“And from Mark narrowed his face. Apparently, the Canada Revewhat about using your truck for the nue hadcharging been trying test?Agency You’ll be me to forcontact that, I him for some time and when there was suppose?” no Again, response fromhadn’t him they went ahead Mark thought about and an audit on his tax returnsuse. for whatdidtruck Charlie would Obviously man Without had no truck of his the last fivethe years. Mark’s inown and would have to rent one to do put, they disallowed a number of his exthe test. Renting a truck was a costly pense claims and as a result he owed endeavour, when would in excess of especially $20,000 on the itnew asbe for just a few hours. “I guess I could sessment. Thoughtfully, the government let you use myatruck.” had provided number for him to call “For free?” to arrange a payment schedule he was Mark didn’t like the word free. He comfortable with. was doing a favour forface, Bud but andknew that Mark couldn’t see his implied that Bud would return the it was white. His knees were weak and favour some day. But as far as Charlie he had to put a hand against the wall to was concerned, the use of truck would keep himself from falling over. indeed be free. “Yes,” he said at last. “You okay, sir?” an old lady said as “Free.” sheCharlie closed nodded. up her own post office box “Good. But you betwith a snap. ter get a trailer. I can’t exactly drop a “I’ve on justthe been trailer dayrobbed,” of the testheif said. there isn’t She looked around with wide one attached to the truck now, caneyes. I?” “How? By who?” Speaking of tests, Mark had been “By a sneak-thief the government interacting with Charlie for all of emfive ploys called Taxlike Man.” minutes and the he felt he was the one “Hmm,” she said, shooting him who was being tested – most of aalllook his of disgust “I’ll andmake shaking herhe head. “Tell patience. sure,” sighed at me last.something I don’t know.” n “Right then! Let’s get started.” ■ – Mark Dalton returns next month in Part – ofMark Dalton returns next 2 Taxes can be so taxing. month in Part 3 of Licence Renewed. Did you know that there are two full-length novels featuring Mark Dalton?: Mark Dalton Did you know that there are two full-length “SmartDriver” and Mark Dalton “Troubleload.” novels featuring Mark Dalton?: Mark Dalton For your free copy register with ecoENERGY for “SmartDriver” and Mark Dalton “Troubleload.” Fleets (Fleet Smart) at fleetsmart.gc.ca. Both For your free copy register with ecoENERGY for are also available in audio book format. Fleets (Fleet Smart) at fleetsmart.gc.ca
The continuing adventures of Mark Dalton: Owner/Operator brought to you by
MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA (CANADA) INC.
pg 76 tn apr v3.indd 1
12/03/12 12:06 PM
April 2012
TRUCK NEWS Page 77
opinion
TRUST THE BEST 61 YEARS EXPERIENCE 17 LOCATIONS OVER 2,000 POWER UNITS
CFMS is undergoing a transformation The organizers of the Canadian Fleet Maintenance Seminar recently announced that the event is no longer an event. Sad really, it was the first industry function I attended way back in 1980. In those days, it would easily draw four or five hundred attendees and the hospitality suites were buzzing (along with the delegates)! As the years went by, attendance started to dwindle. The old Inn on the Park, where it was held since its inception, gave notice that it would be ceasing operations. Despite the organizers’ revival attempts, it never really recovered after the venue moved. Last week, I was invited to attend a meeting to discuss plans for the Transportation Maintenance and Technology Conference (TMTC). Is it the CFMS reincarnated? At first glance, some will say so. Most of the organizing committee is the same, but what I really like about this group is its ‘clean sheet of paper’ approach. ‘No topic is off limits, no idea is foolish,’ was the meeting’s theme. This in itself was very refreshing. Too often we get caught up in the ‘That’s the way it’s done because that’s the way it’s done,’ scenario. This group is breaking away from that and is totally open to suggestions on things like timing, venue, panels, delegate value, etc., etc. In short, it’s a whole new ball game. I understand that Volvo’s prestigious Fleet Maintenance Manager of the Year Award will be presented at the conference. Tentatively being planned for the fall, stay
TRUCK SALES
Publisher’s Comment
.E
B
ia
an
t rit
Rd
e riv
2 u n it s avail abl e
tuned to these pages and our Web site for any developments. Speaking of developments, by now you would have heard about the new commercial licence renewal process for senior drivers. Some may say it hasn’t gone far enough. Frankly, I think it’s wonderful that we finally have a Transport Minister who’s not only willing to listen (many have pretended to) but this guy is also willing to act. For years, industry suggestions and recommendations have gone through one ear and out the other of our Transport Ministers. Hopefully Bob Chiarelli will continue to march along to his own drummer with a little help of course from the industry. We’ve started to receive nominations for the 2012 Canadian Owner/ Operator of the Year Award. Turn to page 20 of this issue for more information on who we are looking for. Remember, they don’t necessarily need to have saved someone’s life in order to be considered. Some of our past winners have won through their community involvement, business successes and mentoring practices. n
nD
ie
Da
tsu
so
aw
Sh
Rob Wilkins
Dix
ARROW TRUCK SALES
Rd
.
nR
d. 401
3 u n it s l eFt
2008 MACK CXU613
485 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 230 WB, 12,000-lb front axle. new Michelin tires. Starting from $44,900
2008 VOLVO VNL730
2008 VOLVO VNL670
Cummins ISX 450, 13-sp Fuller, 229 WB, 12/40 axles, full fairings. Starting from $60,950
Cummins ISX 500 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 219 WB, 40,000 lb rear axle, full fairings, workstation, 852,110 km $55,900
l ow k ms
2008 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA Det SRS60 455 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 228 WB, 12/40 axles, 10 alum rims, 90% orig rear tires. $52,950
4 u n it s avail abl e
2008 PETERBILT 330
Paccar PX8 24 hp, 6-sp Fuller, 254 WB, 8/17 axles, hydraulic brakes, 22' alum van body, translucent roof. $36,950
2007 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA Merc MBE4000 45 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 230 WB, 12/40 axles, air-ride seats, dif locks. $39,900
6 u n it s avail abl e
2007 VOLVO VNL670
Cummins ISX 400 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 214 WB, 12,500/40,000 axles, air-ride seats, bunk heater. $49,950
2007 FREIGHTLINER CENTURY
Cat C15 435 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 230 WB, 12/40 axles, dual power seats, new steers. $38,500
3
You Can Rely On Arrow to Start Off Right
Confidence+ 90 Days / 25,000 Mile Warranty / No Deductible!* Get a certified truck with Safety and Emissions included! Take advantage of our Quick, Hassle-Free, In-House Finance! Count on Professional Experts who really care about you!
– Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Truck News and can be reached at 416-510-5123.
*Conditions Apply Depending on Kilometers and Year of Vehicle
2006 PETERBILT 387
Cummins ISX 450 hp, 13-sp Fuller, 230 WB, 40,000-lb rear axle, lots of chrome, air-ride seats. $42,900
Hiring Heavy Truck SaleS conSulTanTS
1-800-875-9017 1285 Shawson Drive, Mississauga Ontario L4W 1C4 Fax: 905-564-3419
www.arrowtruck.com
FREE REGISTRATION FORM
COMPLETE & FAX TO 905-795-0539 We will enter your information in driverlink where companies and recruiters search for drivers. First Name
Last Name
Address
City
Prov/State
Postal/Zip
Home Tel
Cell
BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME: Home Tel
Cell
WORK PREFERENCES: Owner Operator Lease Purchase Local
Other
OWNER OPERATOR? Manufacturer
Hwy Team Driver Trainer Moving
Hwy Single/Company Driver Other
Year/Model
Engine/Size Other
Preferred Trailer Type (check all that apply): Flatbed
Heavy Hauling/Specialized
Moving Van
Tanker
Straight Truck
Super B
Reefer
Van
Tanker
Straight Truck
Super B
Reefer
Van
Other
Trailer Type Experience (check all that apply): Flatbed
Heavy Hauling/Specialized
CURRENT DRIVERS LICENSE:
Moving Van
Do you have a Commercial License?
Yes
No
Type
Exp Date
Prov/State issued
License# /yrs
Total Truck Driving Experience
Yes
Has your license ever been suspended?
No
Last Employer Name
Prov/State
Company City
Tel
Start/End Date
Job Description
Reason for Leaving
CERTIFICATION / TRAINING:
Can you lift 50lbs?
Yes
No
Name of School Name of Course Completed City
CROSS BORDER TRAVEL:
Prov/State
Start/End Date
I am able to cross the Canada/U.S. border to haul international loads I am willing to cross the border I am FAST approved Would you like to contacted by driver agencies?
Doubles/Triples Air Brake Adjustment Over-Size Loads Hazmat Air Brake (Drive) Tankers
Yes Yes Yes Yes
No No No No
By filling out and signing this application, I agree to abide Driverlink’s terms and conditions and consent to the use of personal information according to the Driverlink privacy policy. Signature: Date: Driverlink is proud to protect the privacy of your personal information as required under federal privacy laws. If you would like to see a copy of our privacy policy, please go to www.driverlink.com/privacy. If you would like a printed copy of our privacy policy, please call us at 1-800-263-6149 and we will be happy to mail one to you.
pg 77 tn apr v3.indd 77
TRUCK NEWS CAREERS
www.trucknews.com
14/03/12 12:34 PM
Page 78 TRUCK NEWS
April 2012
TSQ
?
BRADFORD, Ont. – The summer truck show has long been an industry mainstay, showcasing the best and – sometimes literally – brightest rigs on the road. But a struggling economy has taken its toll in recent years, as even some of the most popular shows of the year have seen their attendance numbers dwindle. A young upstart in the truck show game, the Stirling Truck Show, recently announced it would be bowing out and cancelling the show outright after only six years (full story on pg. 16). Is this a sign of things to come? Is the truck show, as we know it, becoming obsolete? We posed to the question to truckers at the Husky Truck Stop in Bradford, Ont., and also asked for suggestions how organizers can boost attendance. • Ben Mair, a driver with AMS Transportation Services in Dundalk, Ont., says most drivers simply can’t afford the time off to attend truck shows.
Truck Stop Question
Are the glory days of truck shows behind us?
adam ledlow
“I used to go to the (truck show) in Fergus all of the time. You know, but back then things were a little busier and the economy wasn’t as bad – but I haven’t been there for probably five years now.” • Rick Broughton, a driver with more than 30 years of experience at Hayward Logistics in Clear Creek, Ont., says the economy is mostly to blame for the current state of truck shows in Canada. “I think a lot of people would support the truck shows, but with the economy the way it is, it’s kind of hard to do that…plus to put the money into your show trucks too,” he said. “I would say if the economy
Ben Mair
“The money is just not there anymore. With the price of fuel, we are still making the money we were making 20 years ago,” he said. “And who can afford all of this fancy stuff on these trucks these days, you know? I know I can’t.
Rick Broughton
spun around, you would see more (people in attendance). I really believe that.” Like Mair, Broughton says he enjoys truck shows, but the last one he attended was the Fergus Truck Show about four years ago. •
James Pidgeon
• SALES • LEASING • SERVICE • PARTS
TRAILERS
47 Years In Business!
Over
TRAILERS CANADA
www.trailerscanada.com
100’s OF NEW TRAILERS IN STOCK! • DRY VANS • Z-PLATE VANS
• CONTAINER BOXES & CHASSIS
James Pidgeon, a driver with Canada Cartage out of Ajax, Ont., says he believes truck shows are alive and well, as there is still plenty of company-to-company comparison at truck shows, as well as owner/ operators looking to show off their pristine equipment. As for ways to increase numbers at truck shows, Pidgeon suggests holding truck shows at different times of year to help allow truckers that are working to make it back to attend. “Maybe make a few more (truck shows) so that the guys who are gone all of the time can get back to go to one,” he says. •
Spring Delivery! Did You Know Experienced LCV carriers can qualify for four permits when the program restarts in March. It will also be open to 100 more carriers. Only two permits for them until they become experienced.
(10) 2013 STOUGHTON AVW 53' x 102" TRIDEM VANS
72" Hendrickson air ride, Aluminum roofs, Havco Composite floors, Dymondply III plastic lining, Logistic posts on 16" centers, all LED lights, Galvanized rear frames.
(20) 2012 STOUGHTON AVW 53' x 102" HI-CUBE TANDEM VANS
Air Ride, Logistic posts, Aluminum roofs, Dymondply III plastic lining (some plywood lined) and all LED lights.
Only $7,995 each (2) NEW STOUGHTON S/A CONVERTOR DOLLIES
(200) 2013 Z-PLATE STOUGHTON 53' x 102"
w/brakes & taillights, A/R suspension & Bridgestone tires. MUST BE SOLD!
Hendrickson Vantraax A/R, Alum. Roof, Logistic Slots, Z-doors.
NEW
FLATS IN STOCK & ON ORDER!
2012 WILSON 51' x 102" TRIDEM AXLE ALL ALUMINUM AD1080 72" spread AA250 Intraax susp., alum. wheels, Michelins, tool box, sliding winches, alum. stick box, 10' upper deck & aluminum headboard. (1) 2013 WILSON 53' x 102" TRIDEM CFD900 COMBO DROP DECKS Aluminum Wheels, Michelins, Tool Box, sliding winches, coil package, 26 in-rail chain tie downs and all LED lighting.
KITCHENER (Head Office)
Conny Weyers Donald Miller Bruce McKie Isaac Pullen
pg 78 tn apr v3.indd 78
-
Box 188, 5185 Fountain St. N., Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 Fax: (519) 648-3631 Email: sales@trailerscanada.com Cell: (519) 654-7984 Cell: (519) 242-5537 Cell: (519) 575-0545 Cell: (905) 541-8702
Frank Jacques
2013 WILSON 53' x 102" TRIDEM COMBO FLAT CF 1090 72" Hendrickson Intraax Airride. Also available: (1) 53' x 102" TANDEM DROP COMBO w/rear axle slide.
NEAP
(2) 2013 CFD 900 48 x 102 CFD DROPS 10'1" spread, aluminum outer wheels, w/tool box, sliding winches and 24 in-rail chain tie downs.
1-800-799-4425 or (519) 648-2273 100’s of Used Trailers Available!
QUEBEC
Gerard Bourret – (514) 949-0880
PARTS
1-800-799-4425
info@gestionmatr.com Claus Kruse - (514) 943-1880 claus@trailconsales.com
Chris Pachereva or Rob Weyers Cell: (519) 240-1615
Frank Jacques, a driver with Hince Transport out of Hearst, Ont., says the younger generation of drivers coming in aren’t as interested in truck shows as the older guard. “Trucks are also changing and they don’t look as good. Like a truck like this, one thing goes and that’s pretty much it. Things are getting more expensive,” he says. As for Jacques himself, he says he’s never quite seen the allure of truck shows. “For me it’s a job. Friday I hand in my keys and see my kids. I don’t feel like spending a weekend around a truck show. You know, I love what I do, but I want to be home.” n – Do you have a topic idea for the Truck Stop Question? Contact Adam Ledlow on Twitter at Twitter.com /adamledlow or by e-mail at adam@transportationmedia.ca and we may feature your question in an upcoming issue of Truck News.
13/03/12 10:50 AM
Volvo Trucks. Driving Success.
®
PROVEN FUEL EFFICIENCY so you can get more out of every drop. “ Our Volvo trucks are delivering excellent fuel economy across the board, and we have the data to support it.” – Dean DeSantis, Heritage Transport Find out how to maximize your fuel efficiency at booth 1041 at Truck World, or volvotruckscanada.com. ©2012 Volvo Group North America, LLC
Volvo.indd 1
13/03/12 2:34 PM
To learn more, visit Booth at
#3650
TRUCK WORLD
April 19-21, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ Toronto, Ontario
in evolution, there are no shortcuts
www.greatdanetrailers.com
Introducing Great Daneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-new line of revolutionary trailers:
e v e r e s t r
e
TL
e
f
SS
e
r
s
CL
|
c h a m p i o n d
r
y
SE
v
CL
a
n
CP
s
|
f r e e d o m f l a t b e d s
SE
LT
XP
Great Dane and the oval are registered trademarks of Great Dane Limited Partnership.
Great Dane Trailersdelete this ad.indd 1
09/03/12 10:18 AM