e-log trip planning

Its not your FM... its the computer that spits that stuff out.

How to plan around it? Get a map.

 

GPS too. Its a great tool if you learn how to use it properly. Dont blindly follow it.

Mine is fairly accurate, but its ment for cars so always check for restrictions before you get on the road and know your route.... I added a few extra Points of Intrests that include nearly all the TAs, Loves, Pilots, Petros and Js.

It gives me a fairly accurate time frame for my arrivals.

I use it in conjuction with my Atlas, Macro 19 instructions.

 

I have real problems recommending a GPS to a new driver for a number of reasons... especially one that is optimized for a non-CMV.

First there's the problem of "blindly following" it. These things won't give you low clearances (career killer if you destroy a trailer - and it happens regularily), and routes that are restricted for trucks - expensive tickets.

Second, you really need to do your homework on every trip... that means knowing intimately your route, including and especially the low-level detail of the shipper and receiver areas. Its so easy to get lost in a poorly signed area (Jersey!).

Third, if you want to deviate from the fuel routes, the "bible" is the Rand-McNally Motor Carrier Atlas... you're going to need to refer to it in order to get your FMs concurrance. In order for you to do any high-value work, its required you have one. The reference material contained in it (beyond maps) is invaluable, and totally necessary.

Fourth, there's been more than one accident caused by a driver fixating on the GPS in traffic. Another career killer - see do your homework.

The GPS is a nice TOOL... used properly as a backup to confirm the work you've already done with the RMCA its a great help.

 

Are you trying to pick a fight with me too. Or did you just repeat nearly everyone of my points but with 10 times as many words. Quit acting like the professor speaking to 3rd graders.

Read what I posted again.

 

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Hang on, my popcorn is almost done.....

Ok, go! Not used to seeing you two get at each other!

As far as GPS, I started using one about half way through training. I currently use a small TomTom (not truck specific) and love it. As already stated, I use it as an extra tool, and it has come in very handy. What I like most about it is when I get real close to my customer, the QC will say something like "turn right on TruckerMike Ave." So I'll look on my GPS, and it'll tell me exactly how far away TruckerMike Ave. is. This especially comes in handy when streets stated on QC are not at stop signs or street lights. I also like how it constantly reads out how many miles I am away from my destination. Sometimes it doesn't follow the QC directions, but usually it does. And even when it doesn't, it'll catch up after it "re-routes" me.

 

I got one of the el-cheapo Tomtom's from WallyWorld - black Friday special. Its great for figuring out what the next street is in the dark, and like U2 said, mileage to destination. It's tried to send me to the wrong location a couple of times - not real happy about that.

 

Wake up on the wrong side of the sleeper?