For a new driver, the trucking industry can seem like a confusing and risky place to be. It’s easy to get lost in how to operate your truck or the types of insurance you need to worry about, and that’s where this article comes in! We’re going to go over some common misconceptions people have about trucking compliance, so you can better understand your needs as a trucker.

Misconception about trucking compliance

One of the most common misconceptions about trucking compliance is that it’s expensive and time-consuming. However, submission doesn’t have to be either of those things. Several simple and affordable compliance solutions can save you time and money in the long run.

Another misconception about trucking compliance is that it’s complicated and confusing. However, this isn’t the case. Several resources are available to help you understand the regulations and requirements. And, once you have a handle on what’s required, complying with the rules is relatively straightforward.

Finally, some people believe that compliance is optional. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Compliance is mandatory for all trucking companies operating in the United States. Failing to comply with the regulations can result in hefty fines and even the shutdown of your business. So, if you’re not compliant, now is the time to start.

How to comply with the law

Many things need to be clarified about what it takes to comply with the law regarding trucking. The biggest one is that you need to be perfect.

While it's essential to do your best to comply with the law, there is no such thing as a perfect record. That's why it's necessary to have a good compliance plan in place.

Your compliance plan should include having a detailed log of your service hours, maintaining accurate vehicle maintenance records, and being aware of the rules and regulations that apply to your specific route and load.

If you're ever pulled over or inspected, showing that you have a plan will prove that you're serious about complying with the law.

Laws that affect trucking and how they affect you

Many laws affect the trucking industry. Some of these laws are federal regulations, while others are state laws. These laws can affect how you operate your trucking business and your ability to get paid for your services.

Federal regulations that affect the trucking industry include hours of service regulations, which dictate how many hours a driver can work in a day or week. These regulations also mandate rest breaks for drivers, limiting the time a driver can be on duty without taking a break.

Other Federal regulations are vehicle maintenance requirements and drug and alcohol testing rules. Truckers must also comply with weight restrictions and obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate their vehicles.

State laws governing the trucking industry vary from state to state. Some states have their hours of service regulations, while others follow federal guidelines. State laws may also mandate additional training for truck drivers or restrict what types of cargo can be transported.

The best way to ensure compliance with all applicable laws is to consult an attorney or other legal expert specializing in the trucking industry.

Conclusion

The most significant misconception about trucking compliance is that it’s all about the rules and regulations. Sure, complying with the law is a big part of it, but there’s so much more to it than that. Compliance is about ensuring your trucks are safe and efficient and that your drivers are trained and knowledgeable. It’s about protecting your business, your employees, and your customers. When you take a holistic approach to compliance, you set yourself up for success in the long run.

About Vallon Consulting LLC: Vallon Consulting is A Full-Service Trucking Consulting Company that tackles some of the most critical challenges and obstacles in the trucking industry. Our diverse global team is passionate about helping carriers and fleet managers meet their goals and ensure business stability. We do this by providing services, solutions, resources, and education.

At Vallon Consulting, We Take A “No Carrier Left Behind” Approach. Our Mission is to provide services and resources that address our client’s unique needs. You can learn more about us online at www.vallonconsulting.com and stay tuned with industry updates by following us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.