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Warm Weather Tips for Commercial Truckers

With spring finally here, temperatures are heating up all across the country.  Warmer temperatures bring some safety considerations that don’t necessarily apply during the colder winter months.

Increased heat can lead to faster erosion of your brakes. It’s important to remain vigilant of your vehicle maintenance all year round.

The same for your tires. Extreme heat increases the risk of a tire blowout. If your tires are underinflated, the risk is even greater. Be sure to continue to do all your routine inspections.

Summer means travel and vacations… and increased traffic. Be alert and aware of other drivers on the road.

Nicer weather and damage caused by snow plows results in more work zones. With workers on the roadways and heightened fines for traffic violations, slow down and use caution.

Summer months tend to have some nasty storms, whether it’s a thunderstorm, tornado, or hurricane. Roadways can quickly become flooded, visibility can plummet, and winds can gust. Know what’s ahead of you and pull over to wait until the storm has passed.

And always remember… Safety first! Your life and the lives of everyone else on the road are far more important that your haul.  Use caution, be alert, and know your limits.

 

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Spotlight on Women in Trucking for Women’s History Month

It’s no secret the trucking industry has been facing a driver shortage for the last several years.  According to research from the Mineta Transportation Institute, women account for 50% of the employed population but only 15% of the transportation industry. Continuing to employ more women may solve more than just the driver shortage.

On average, female seat belt violations are 22% as compared to 78% for their male counterparts, 30% for speeding violations as compared to 70%, and 27% for signal violations as compared to 73%. The statics support the fact that female drivers overall are safer drivers.

The nonprofit WIT (Women in Trucking) has been advocating for female drivers since 2007. Women are needed in logistics and management as well as behind the wheel.

At Carbon Express, we value our female workforce and have had the distinct pleasure of working with Melissa Bencivengo, recipient of the 2019 Award for Women in Trucking. Melissa began her career with us just over two years ago and began with local and regional routes before expanding into the Midwest, Southern US, and Canada.  We are proud to have her on our team, and are always looking to hire employees with her eagerness and skill.

If you’re interested in a career with us, visit the careers link on our website to fill out an application, or give us a call at 973-328-0050.

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Safety Matters When Transporting Hazardous Non-hazardous Bulk Liquid

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous materials through various acts & laws. These and other federal laws and rulings have created guidelines that companies must abide by if they want to transport hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, or dispose of them in an efficient, economical, and environmentally sound manner. Regardless of who is doing the transporting, if something is mis-handled it becomes the original shipper’s responsibility. Safety must always be of the utmost importance.

Bulk liquid transportation is the process of moving liquid materials such as oil, chemicals, coal, sludge, or water from one place to another. There are three types of bulk liquid transportation: non-reusable liquid transported for off-site processing, non-toxic liquid transported for specific purposes, and hazardous waste liquid transported for disposal. There are several environmental policies applicable to the transportation of hazardous waste.

Due to their dangerous nature, the majority of hazardous waste materials require special handling and shipping processes. Moreover, the transporting of bulk liquid non-hazardous & hazardous waste is a major concern because it involves the transfer of thousands of gallons of highly concentrated toxic substances each year.

Since the early days of Carbon Express, SAFETY has been a priority for the clients we serve, for our family of drivers, AND for the general public. Steve Rush, the founder and CEO of Carbon Express considers “Customers #1 and Drivers #1A”. His 56-year commitment to that credo earned the company the honor of being one of the “Top Companies in 2021” to watch. Some of the safety features of their specialized transportation trucks include:

  • Tank Inspection with every washing.
  • Routine Inspection of truck and trailer, hourly wages for drivers means no rushing through critical maintenance steps.
  • Driver dedicated hoses, meaning the hoses on each truck are the responsibility of the driver, hoses are never swapped.
  • Mandatory damage reporting.
  • Avoiding sleeper trucks to keep drivers well rested and more focused.

Our history of Safety First speaks volumes about Carbon Express. If you need to schedule the transport of hazardous or non-hazardous bulk liquid waste, contact our sales team at 973-328-0050 to discuss your needs.

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Precautions for Transporting Hazardous Materials in Colder Temperatures

The leaves have changed, the temperatures are dropping, and cold weather is just around the corner.  Here are some tips for staying safe in cold weather:

  • Make sure your trucks are up to date on all regularly schedule maintenance an are using fuel that has been treated and blended for low temperatures.
  • Keep all drivers up to speed on winter driving with refresher courses if needed, even those drivers operating out of warmer weather locations as their travel may take them to snowy regions.
  • Drive slower than the speed limit when necessary. Snowy or icy road conditions may be too fast for the legal speed limit.  Take as much time as necessary to safely arrive at your destination.
  • Don’t travel in a pack. Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicles around you.  If it’s snowy outside and you can see the taillights of the vehicle in front of you, you’re traveling too close.
  • Always be prepared. It’s good practice to carry cat litter with you should your tires become stuck on ice.  Cat litter is environmentally friendly and will give you extra traction.  Carrying a hammer and putty knife can be helpful to make sure there’s no snow or ice packed around your air tanks.

 

It’s better to be prepared for any circumstance than to be stranded or suffer a breakdown during cold weather.  And with the changing weather patterns, even those drivers in more southern states should start considering cold weather preparations.

Our terminal network stretches from upstate New York down to central Florida, and we transport throughout the US, Canada and Mexico.  All Carbon Express drivers are intensely trained on how to transport hazardous materials in extreme temperatures. We take the safety of our drivers, the public, and our clients seriously all year round.

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BioDiesel Versus Diesel

With climate change and renewable energy sources being a priority for the last few years, the use of biodiesel has risen in popularity.  Made from modified vegetable oils and mixed with diesel, biodiesel is biodegradable and can be grown in the U.S., thus reducing our dependence on foreign oil sources.

Over the past six years, production of biodiesels has grown as both federal and state governments offer incentives to make the switch.  Blends are used most often as either B-5 of B-20, and smaller blends such as B-2 are used as additives to improve engine performance and longevity.

The Environmental Protection Agency indicates that biodiesel fuels emit 11% less carbon monoxide and 10% less particulate matter than diesel which reduces tailpipe emissions and the amount of soot released into the atmosphere.

One potential downside is the quality of available biodiesels.  Fueling stations must be diligent in their storage methods.  Since it’s made from vegetable-based products, correct storage temperature is imperative.  If stored too warm, mold will be able to grow; if too cold, biodiesel can thicken and flow rate will be greatly reduced.

At Carbon Express, we take environmental concerns seriously and do our part to reduce our environmental impact.  Our Green Fleet transports 17% more with every load. We transport more products at a lower cost for our clients while doing our part to help the environment. Let us show you how you can save money on your transportation budget and help the environment at the same time. Put our 40+ years of experience to work for you. Talk with one of our team today: 973.328.0050

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Flatbed Transportation Fleet

We’re proud to announce the recent addition of our flatbed transportation fleet.  For nearly forty years, we have been your trusted resource for your bulk liquid transport needs.  This addition enables us to transport both HazMat and Non-HazMat materials across the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Our bulk liquid fleet includes tankers for oils, solvents, flammables, corrosives, poisons, chemical, or petroleum products.  Whether you need stainless insulated, non-insulated, aluminum insulated or non-insulated, single or multi compartment… we’ve got you covered.

All of our drivers have both TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) Cards and HazMat Certifications so you can rest easy knowing your product is safe with us.

If you’d like more information, or need to transport Hazardous or Non-Hazardous materials, you can reach us by email at Orders@CarbonExpress.com or by telephone at 973-328-0050.  We look forward to working with you to safely transport your products wherever they need to go.

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Understanding Hazmat Placards

Have you ever noticed the diamond shapes signage on the back or sides of trailers and wondered what they mean?  The US Department of Transportation requires trucks carrying hazardous materials to display these placards as a way to inform first responders of the contents in the case of a crash or other emergency.

There are 9 main classes of hazardous materials:

  1. Explosives
  2. Gases
  3. Flammable and Combustible Liquids
  4. Flammable Materials
  5. Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide
  6. Poisons
  7. Radioactive
  8. Corrosive
  9. Miscellaneous

In addition to numbers, the second most recognizable characteristic of these placards is color:

  • Orange – explosive materials such as dynamite, fireworks, or ammunition.
  • Red – flammable goods such as gasoline, isopropyl alcohol, paint, or acetone.
  • Green – nonflammable substances such as compressed or liquified gasses.
  • Yellow – oxidizers such as ammonium nitrate, potassium nitrate, halogens, or nitric acid.
  • White – poisonous and biohazardous substances such as dyes, acids, aerosols, or medical wastes.
  • Blue – dangerous when wet such as sodium, calcium, or potassium.
  • Red and White – dangerous when exposed to air such as aluminum or lithium alkyls or white phosphorous.
  • Red and White Stripes – flammable solids such as matches or magnesium.
  • Red and Yellow – organic peroxides such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide or benzoyl peroxide.
  • Yellow and White – radioactive substances such that are commonly found in medical equipment.
  • White and Black – corrosive materials such as batteries, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, or sodium hydroxide.
  • White and Black Stripes – miscellaneous dangerous goods such as asbestos or dry ice.

These placards offer clear and easy to interpret information about the contents of transport carriers.  Carbon Express is extensively trained in the handling and transporting of hazardous materials, so there is no need to worry when traveling near and around trucks on the road.  We put safety first for our clients, our drivers, and the public.

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Tips for Staying Healthy on the Road During the Pandemic

Commercial Truck Drivers are essential during the Covid-19 pandemic, and staying healthy and safe is a top priority.  Take a look at these safety precautions we’ve compiled to keep your chance for infection as low as possible.

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Keep your nose and mouth covered with a scarf or bandana if a facemask is unavailable during pickups and drop-offs.  While gloves aren’t recommended to wear all the time, it’s a good idea to put some on when pumping fuel and also when using the keypad to pay.  Try to avoid paying with cash.  And of course, wash your hands as often as possible.
  • It’s a good idea to limit your takeout.  Bring along a cooler with plenty of ice and pack your meals when you can.  If that’s not feasible, try to avoid eating inside a restaurant.  When stopping at a convenience store, try buying in bulk to limit the number of stops you have to make, thus limiting your contact with others.
  • When you stay the night in a hotel or motel, practice good hygiene after touching anything in the room, and try not to walk around with bare feet.  You might even consider bringing your own blankets, sheets, and pillowcases if you’re able.
  • Use your devices to check for updated information from the CDC and WHO.  Social Media sites are well known for spreading false information.  And use programs like FitToPass to keep yourself in good mental and physical health on the road.

Of course, keep your distance from others, avoid social gatherings, be safe, and follow expert advice.

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How to Hire the BEST Commercial Transportation Company

Whether you need to move hazardous or bulk liquids, choosing the right company for your specific needs is vital.  The consequences of a poorly executed travel plan could be catastrophic for the trucking company, your business, and the environment.

Here are some things to consider as you make your decision:

  • Read reviews, and check to see if there are any complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau.  You want to be sure you’re choosing a company with a positive reputation for safety, professionalism, and overall services.  You need a company you can trust.
  • You’ll want to choose a company with a newer fleet.  The newer the fleet, the better the safety features and chances are the navigation equipment will be more up to date to give you the most information when planning your route.
  • It’s important to find a company with experienced drivers who are experts in their field.  A company with a high employee turnover might not value training and experience.

Give us a call at 973-328-0050 to discuss all of your transportation needs.  We take care of our fleet and our drivers so they can take care of you.

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If the Trucks Stop, the Country Stops

In the midst of all the Covid-19 closures, there is one industry that is still operating at full capacity, if not more.  The commercial trucking industry is responsible for delivering consumables to keep us fed, materials to keep us clothed, heating fuel to keep us warm, and medical supplies to keep us healthy.  The trucking industry handles more cargo than trains, ships, and planes.  And even when we factor in those modes of transportation, the goods won’t get from rail yards, ports, and airports without the trucks.  If trucking stopped, the economy would as well.

Truckers are on the road night and day bringing everything you need to try to maintain your expected quality of life regardless of the current pandemic, bad weather, or traffic nightmares.  Each product in your home, your office, or your yard has likely seen the inside of a truck.  The things we take for granted are only possible because truck drivers delivered the goods you needed when you needed them.

If the trucking industry were to ever shut down, hospitals would begin to run out of supplies, gas stations would run out of fuel, and mail delivery would end, all within 24 hours.  Waste and refuse would begin to reach unsanitary levels.  There is no allowance for a pandemic in the trucking industry.

Our drivers are heroes.  They are soldiers fighting an enemy that can’t see and going out there every day.  I am in absolute awe of their bravery.