My DS, C1,and USA Truck experience

bigmikectn · Nov 14, 2011

tech10171968 said: ↑

For what I've experienced, you were told right. Sloppy logbooks are a DOT magnet.

I use a program called "Eclipse Logbook"; their website can easily be found via Google. It's a free download, and there is a free 30-day trial with no strings attached. The bad news was that USA Truck has one and only one logbook form they want you to use; it's even got a barcode, so no making up your own spreadsheets or using a generic logbook (which is what Eclipse prints out).

The good news is that, if you buy the program, you can see if the company has your carrier "on file". If they do then this means, instead of printing out a generic logbook form, the software will print out your company's particular logbook form. Not all companies are on file, but it only takes one driver to send in a blank logbook page to the company to get his carrier on file. I've already done that for USA Truck, so no problems there in anyone else wants to use that software.

There are other logbook programs out there, but this one I've found to be the least pain in the you-know-what to learn to use. It will tell you if you're about to bust your 11-, 14-, or 70-hour rule and even does your recaps for you. Most DOT cops, once they see my laptop, won't even bother with my logbook; they know they won't find an error.
Click to expand...

Awesome. Thanks for the info. That sounds much better dealing with the actual log book. It gets tougher to keep them neat with my terrible penmanship and bi-focals.

I will check out the program. I am talking with a USA Truck recruiter right now. Hoping to come back to driving in January.

none · Jan 29, 2012

Great post.
Glad I read this far. Myself I have a choise, either C-1 in Fot Wayne. Or Sage in Indy.
Both are for free. If I go to Indy the motel will run about 200 per week. If I stay in the Fort it is free.
Not sure if it is worth the extra cost.

Log in or Sign up

Forums

Find Trucking Jobs

My DS, C1,and USA Truck experience

bigmikectn Medium Load Member

Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

Wait, employers can't reach you!

none Light Load Member

Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

Wait, employers can't reach you!

Log in or Sign up

Useful Searches

Find Trucking Jobs

My DS, C1,and USA Truck experience

bigmikectn Medium Load Member

Wait, employers can't reach you!

none Light Load Member

Wait, employers can't reach you!