Technical Support

Fleet Manager Responsibilities 

• Correctly record fleet information.
• Examine and analyze recorded data.
• Select the best vehicles.
• Manages truck maintenance schedules. 
• Recruit responsible and reliable drivers. 
• Maintain and manage a budget.
• Assign trucks to drivers.
• Handle drivers’ schedules.
• Create, implement, and manage policies for their fleet.
• Manage accident reports.
• Establish situational practices and procedures for potential issues. 
• Handle escalated customer service issues.
• Use GPS systems to locate trucks.
• Find ways to reduce costs while increasing profits.
• Comply with all of the U.S. Department of Transportation laws and regulations.
• Develop strategies to improve fuel efficiency.
• and more!

5 Mistakes a Fleet Manager Should Avoid Making

1. Avoid Getting Too Comfortable — The more time you spend in any occupational position, the easier it is to get comfortable in the role. At some point, the fleet may start to run relatively smoothly, and the operation, procedures, and policies are running themselves. It is easy for fleet managers to set the theoretical cruise control and coast. Getting too comfortable isn’t a good idea. Changes constantly occur in the fleet world; sitting back and watching is not an option. Fuel prices rise and fall; vehicle resale values fluctuate; laws, rules, and regulations always change; employee turnovers occur, and more. If you aren’t prepared, you could be left scrambling in these situations; effective resolutions and positive fixes come with a manager who stays on top of everything. Robert Zell, a highly successful businessman and company founder, said, “Complacency is the enemy of excellence.” Managers that thrive never assume anything, including that the fleet is under control, that all cost-savings are met, or anything else. Staying on top of industry news, implementing better procedures and processes, and a willingness to grow and learn is key.
2. Don’t Forget to Stay Current — If you think the tire on a semi going 65 mph spins quickly, look at how quickly things can change in the truck fleet industry. If managers are not paying attention, they will get left behind. Staying informed and in the know is crucial to being a successful fleet manager. Staying informed means knowing your fleet numbers, cost, and figures. It means knowing what suppliers are selling, what you are doing, and what your competitors are doing. It means being aware of issues and having solutions before a supervisor does. It means staying in the loop on industry trends and news. Thankfully, staying in the know is easier than ever, thanks to the internet and networking with industry peers. Just about every issue has been experienced by someone else, and their willingness to share ideas, solutions, and advice is just a click or phone call away.
3. Never Depend Too Heavily on Suppliers — A major advantage of fleet suppliers is that they can provide a service, product, or program for all things “fleet management.” Between maintenance, leasing, fuel, and more, there is a program; you need it, and it exists! It just makes sense to use these suppliers. However, relying too heavily on these suppliers could be harmful to your position as a decision maker. It’s not a good idea to turn over an entire fleet to suppliers since this could turn the fleet manager into a middleman, which isn’t at all what you want for your job. You always want to be managing in your role, not just coordinating how things are going. Outsourcing can be a smart move a fleet manager makes; however, doing it strategically and based on necessity is key. This really helps with job security. At the same time, you don’t want to make your role indispensable. This means ensuring you are hiring top-tier talent, keeping your team informed, and cross-training them. Then, your superiors will see your leadership potential and not assume that you need to only stay in your current role. They’ll trust you to take on more responsibility and train your replacement someday.
4. Avoid a Lack of Communication — Doing your job is just that – it’s your job. As nice as it would be to continually receive praise for your accomplishments, this isn’t always realistic because your higher-ups are very busy. Oftentimes, there’s a silent gratitude that isn’t always communicated but is ever-present if you’re doing a good job. So, while a gold star might not come every day, don’t think your higher-ups aren’t pleased just because they haven’t said anything. The best way to keep regular communication with senior management is to update them. Regularly fill them in on the important details. Don’t wait for them to ask for it; pass it along so they continually receive updates and know what’s going on with your fleet. With all a fleet manager is tasked with doing on a daily basis, you should have no issues finding pertinent and important information to present in a concise manner to those whom you report that (one) brings them up to speed and (two) showcases positive efforts and proof of success. Focus on results, not process, whenever possible. Fleet managers that offer simple and focused information via straightforward communication will show (in addition to telling) their management what is going on, keeping them apprised of everything they need to know at a glance.
5. Do Not Forget Your Crew Members Are People Too — You, a fleet manager, are human. It is important to remember that your fleet members are people, too. They have lives, feelings, and problems of their own. Make sure to listen to what they have to say. Hear their concerns and listen to their ideas. Your drivers are in the trenches and will have great insight that is worth considering. Unsuccessful fleet managers operate as machines or robots, with little to no care or concern for their team. As a fleet manager, it is important to encourage balance, health, and overall well-being. Be graceful and lenient where possible while expecting respect, honesty, and hard work.

5 Traits of a Good Fleet Manager

1. Always Prioritize the Team’s Safety — Fleet managers must put the safety of their team above all else. Staying on top of truck maintenance and paying attention to the crew’s mental and physical health (stress and fatigue levels included) can help prevent accidents. Managers should not wait for a close call or accident to occur before prioritizing team wellness. Fatigue and crash risk are directly related, so paying close attention to this while creating schedules is crucial. Even the slightest bit of drowsiness can cause an accident. Fleet managers must be proactive in many aspects of their job, especially safety.
2. Lighten the Load When You Can — Vehicle maintenance can be challenging and tedious, which is why great fleet managers make scheduling and reporting maintenance as easy as possible. The good news is today’s advanced and time-saving technology allows truck drivers to digitally perform routine truck inspections, a much faster process than a manual checklist. This easy investment will save your drivers countless hours on the road and simplify the process. Automating this process means managers and their drivers have less to worry about, thus lightening their figurative load. Moreover, investing in a digital inspection process will help ensure inspections and checks are regularly occurring, resulting in a safer and well-maintained fleet.
3. Truly Listen to the Team — The best fleet manager will consider them to be part of the crew, not someone who is in a higher-up position. They all work collaboratively and mentor one another. A great manager will create a space where open and honest communication can happen and will listen to their drivers’ feedback, both positive and negative. Managers should strive to create an environment where their team knows they can come to the manager when a problem arises, whether it is an issue with a vehicle, occupational stress, or something personal. Supporting the drivers is a huge part of being a fleet manager. The best managers are those who are understanding and empathetic whenever possible.
4. Make Expectations Crystal Clear — Being empathetic does not mean being a pushover; there is still a job to do and a delivery to make. Fleet managers need to make their expectations clear. A lack of clarity leads to confusion, leading to a less efficient and productive workplace. No employee enjoys the feeling of being unsure of their responsibilities, and when expectations are not clear, drivers cannot put their focus on executing their jobs. Confusion is scary and mentally exhausting, and any good fleet manager wants their drivers to be as focused and alert as possible. Over-communicating is best to ensure the driving team knows what they are doing.
5. Promote Positive Mental Health — It is no secret that life behind the wheel can be lonely and negatively affect a driver’s mental health and overall well-being. Great fleet managers should check in with their team regularly, promote balance, and always put the team’s mental health high on their priority list. Here are a few ways to boost the team’s morale while they are on the road:

• Encourage team interaction
• Communicate with loved ones
• Watch TV and enjoy other forms of entertainment

Be a Good Fleet Manager and Equip Your Fleet with EpicVue

6 Ways You Can Make Your Long Haul Truck Feel Like Home

1. Invest in Seat Covers and Cushions — Truck drivers spend most of their time sitting in the driver’s seat, so why not make it enjoyable? Seat covers are essential for those spending hours behind the wheel since they help protect interiors from spills, dirt, and wear. Add a little personality by choosing your favorite pattern, material, and color. Seat covers and cushions can also relieve back pain and promote good driving posture. While driving down the highway, you’re sure to feel vibrations from the road which can really aggravate the neck and spine. Seat cushions and covers can help absorb the shock and support your lower and upper back. For the best experience and additional support, opt for a cushion with massage balls and memory foam. These will make your seat as comfortable as possible, making those long hours on the road bearable.
2. Add a Mattress Pad — One of the best trucker accessories you can add to your sleeper semi is a mattress pad. For the safety of yourself and others on the road, it is essential for drivers to feel well rested, and a springy, hard mattress found in a lot of sleeper cabs won’t get you there. A comfortable mattress pad goes a long way in getting you quality rest. For additional touches of home and comfort, complete the space with your favorite bedding and pillows.
3. Put Up Decorations — A home or apartment feels bare without decorations, and your semi truck is no different. Adding little touches of your personality by hanging photographs, posters, artwork, and more will help the space feel much more like home and a place you’re happy to be. Moreover, having pictures of your loved ones posted where you can see them regularly can help you feel less lonely. Not an owner-operator? That’s okay! Using tape is always fine, but if you want something more substantial, there are other options. Thanks to renter-friendly materials like Command strips and hooks, you can easily make the truck you are driving feel like home without causing any permanent damage. You can also place personal knickknacks on the dash for you to see.
4. Utilize Textiles in Your Truck — Personalize your cab with window shades, curtains, and small area rugs. Little details like window coverings and rugs go a long way in making a space feel more comfortable and like home. These textiles help bring your space together and provide an added layer of privacy when you are unwinding or sleeping in the back.
5. Add Small Kitchen Appliances — Life on the road often means frequent visits to truck stops and eating out frequently. Not only does this add up financially, but it can also affect your health. Adding a mini-fridge microwave, toaster, and single-serve coffee maker will allow you to be much more efficient and keep healthy meals, snacks, and drinks on hand.
6. Entertainment Options — Entertainment is key to an enjoyable time while you’re away from home. Listening to your favorite podcasts, music, or audiobooks will help the time pass while you’re behind the wheel. When you aren’t driving, having a TV in a truck is incredibly convenient (and homey). But how do drivers watch TV in a truck on the road? EpicVue– the best of the best trucker accessories.

Watch TV in Your Long Haul Truck With EpicVue!

5 Things to Consider When Developing Your Truck Fleet Management Strategy

1. Invest in a Fleet Management System — You could be the most experienced and focused manager, but you will still have difficulties staying organized and productive without a quality truck fleet management system in place. Managers of old used to rely on elaborate systems involving paper spreadsheets, filing cabinets, and more to run their business, but there are simpler ways to get the job done. Join the digital age by digitizing your workflow and operations; you’ll find that processes are optimized, and your team’s performance is improved! A good system will allow you to keep track of the best routes, maintenance schedules, driver and vehicle efficiency, automating various tasks (such as routing and scheduling deliveries, billing and invoicing, sending jobs to drivers, etc.) and more so you can maximize the potential of your fleet.
2. Find Ways to Cut Maintenance Costs — It’s no secret that the economy is in an exciting place right now. Inflation is on the rise, and maintenance costs are not exempt. A solid semi-truck fleet manager must prioritize finding ways to reduce costs. Taking a defensive, preventive approach to maintenance is key. Improving fleet efficiency and ensuring that your rigs and necessary equipment are in tip-top shape and ready to go can help you stay ahead of maintenance issues. Consider utilizing a good fleet management system that can tell you about the vehicles’ engines and other diagnostic features to help extend the life of your trucks. These tools can help you quickly identify any problems with your trucks and avoid issues down the road when they become more serious, thus cutting maintenance costs. Another way to reduce maintenance costs is to base your trucks’ service schedule on accurate engine usage hours instead of an arbitrary calendar. This helps to eliminate unnecessary repairs and potential hours and revenue lost, allowing you to make the most of your fleet while still taking great care of them.
3. Find Ways to Save Money on Fuel — As a fleet manager, it almost always comes down to budget. And one of the biggest portions (we’re talking between 50% and 65%) of overall operating costs is dedicated to fueling costs. As mentioned above, having a good management system and GPS tracking in place can help you develop an excellent management strategy. You’ll be able to monitor your drivers’ driving performance, habits, and behavior and monitor fuel usage, which directly affects fuel consumption. By tracking and analyzing this information, you’ll be alerted to issues sooner than you may have been otherwise. Moreover, tracking this info will keep you apprised of any safety concerns, such as aggressive driving. Addressing these issues will help you reduce operational costs associated with your fuel budget.
4. Perfect and Optimize Your Drivers’ Routes — Customers and clients demand quick and on-time deliveries, so taking the perfect and optimal route is absolutely crucial. Your business’ reputation counts on it! Inaccurate arrival time estimates, delays, and inefficient routes will only lead to frustration. Hiccups and issues along the way are bound to happen and are an inevitable part of any industry, including trucking. But, by automating customer notifications and other processes, fleet managers can experience a lot less stress, allowing them to spend time and put their focus elsewhere.
5. Prioritize Your Drivers’ Health and Wellness — One of the biggest parts of developing a good truck fleet management strategy is prioritizing your team’s health and wellness. Feeling isolated on the road comes with being a truck driver; it’s part of the territory. So fleet managers who promote a healthy work-life balance and positive mental health are typically much more successful.

Here are some ways managers can prioritize employees’ health:

• Encourage Inter-Fleet Engagement — Get your team interacting with one another on their radios. Regular small talk and sharing stories from life on the road can help counteract feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Keep in Communication With Friends and Family — Encouraging regular communication with loved ones back home is essential. Remind your drivers to check in via text message or phone during required breaks. Fleet managers may also want to consider installing truck cabs with Bluetooth capabilities so that they can chat on the road.
• Watch Television on the Road — Life behind the wheel is mentally and emotionally challenging. However, watching TV can help fulfill human connection and interaction needs.

Include EpicVue in Your Truck Fleet Management Strategy

What is a Sleeper Cab Truck?

Do All Semi Truck Cabs Have Sleepers?

• Sleeping Area: This is the area where drivers sleep. Most trucks feature a twin-sized mattress. In some areas, this bed pulls down from the wall, while others have a loft area.
• Thick Blackout Curtains — If you want the best sleep possible, it’s best to limit light. Sleeper trucks typically feature blackout curtains on any rear windows and a dividing curtain between the sleeping area and driving area to keep out light.
• Storage Compartments — Storage can be hard to come by in a day cab. However, a sleeper truck might boast a few storage areas where the driver can keep their personal belongings, food, and more.
• Climate Control — Sleeping in a climate-controlled area ensures truck drivers will get the best sleep possible. A comfortable sleeping temperature is vital for well-rested, alert drivers.
• Kitchenette — Some sleeper trucks feature a kitchenette, including a microwave, hot plate, mini fridge and freezer, small dining table, and more.
• Electricity — Electricity is essential for sleeper cab trucks. It allows drivers to charge their phones, cook food, and watch TV.

Watching TV in Sleeper Trucks

Want to Watch TV From Your Sleeper Trucks? EpicVue Can Help!

10 Effective Exercises for Truck Drivers

1. Walking or Running — One of the best exercises you can do, especially for those with a sedentary lifestyle, is to walk or run for 30 minutes every day. A simple 30-minute walk every day can burn between 200 and 300 calories, improve digestion, and boost your metabolism. It also helps to strengthen muscles and bones, increase immunity, boost energy levels, and improve mood, sleep, and circulation.
2. Tricep Dips — Tricep dips are good for working the backs of your upper arms but require a chair or step. The running bar or sidestep on your semi's cab is perfect!
3. Step-Ups — Step-ups are a great form of cardio and strength training exercise. Use good posture to step up with one foot, bring the other foot up and step back down repeatedly for one to three minutes, then switch feet to feel the burn. You can also use the semi's running bar or sidestep.
4. Squats — Whether you're doing standard squats, side squats, sumo squats, or any other iteration of squats, you can get a decent thigh, calf, and glute workout from anywhere, with no equipment, in a small amount of space.
5. Planks — Planking is a great way to exercise your core. It also supports ideal posture and improves balance while strengthening the hamstrings and glute muscles. Start by planking on your knees and elbows, move up to your toes and elbows, then graduate to extending your arms and planking on your hands and toes. You can alternate bending your knees, switching hands, and doing hip dip side planks to increase difficulty.
6. Crunches — Crunches are probably the most popular way to target your abdominal muscles and a great way to work out when traveling. The cool thing about crunches is that there are many variations on the theme. Build your abs and core muscles by doing standard crunches, reverse crunches, bicycle crunches, scissor crunches, and more!
7. Jumping Jacks — Jumping jacks can improve aerobic capacity, improve metabolism, decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, decrease resting heart rate and blood pressure, and help to maintain a healthy weight. Aim to do 100 jumping jacks per day. 
8. Push-Ups — Push-ups are an effective and quick way to build upper body strength, specifically in your chest, arms, back, and core. They are the perfect way to work out when traveling because they do not require much space (you can do them anywhere!) and require zero equipment.
9. Lunges — Lunges are perfect for increasing muscle mass and toning the body, especially the legs and behind.
10. Stretches — Never underestimate the benefits of a good stretching session. Stretching can decrease the risk of injuries, improve your ability to do everyday tasks, increase blood flow, and more.

Get Through Your Truck Driver Workouts with EpicVue

Interested in streaming services or TV for Truckers? Here’s why truck drivers watch during their mandatory downtime.

The life of a truck driver is much different than most other occupations. Drivers spend countless hours behind the wheel and on the road, but what do they do when they aren’t actively driving?

There are many things drivers can do during their downtime. Between getting in touch with loved ones, playing tourist wherever they’re visiting, doing their favorite hobbies, and more, there’s a lot to do during their mandatory rest and recovery time. However, the most common thing they do is enjoy TV in a truck. 

Not sure why truckers watch TV while they’re on the road? We’re filling you in on everything you need to know. Continue reading to learn more below.

3 Reasons Why Truckers Watch TV During Their Downtime

Have you ever wondered why truckers watch TV during their downtime? Here are just a few reasons why:

1. Improved Work-Life Balance — The life of a truck driver is pretty surprising to a lot of people. Their schedules can be filled with deadlines that require driving through the night or waking up early to avoid traffic.
   
   This, coupled with countless hours away from loved ones and their regular routines, affects their sleep patterns and often results in excessive fatigue. Having tired drivers behind the wheel is an obvious hazard and a huge risk to themselves and anyone else sharing the road. 

Did you know that truck drivers are at the highest risk of overwork-related cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease? Because truckers are already at a heightened disadvantage both mentally and physically due to the nature of their occupation and work schedule, this fact is especially concerning!

Providing truckers with a decent way to balance their work and personal lives is crucial and directly impacts their levels of happiness and contentment. 

Drivers are much less likely to feel as though they are only living to work if there is some sort of balance. A balanced life means better, happier, more productive employees. A decent work-life balance means drivers are more positive and have a helpful, can-do attitude, and are more willing to provide quality work. 

But how does a fleet manager offer their drivers a balanced life in terms of work and personal life? A great way to do it is by offering their crew members perks like the ability to watch their go-to TV shows, regardless of where they are on the road. 

If truck drivers want to improve their work-life balance, watching TV during downtime is a great place to start.

2. An Ideal Time to Catch Up — As you can imagine, truckers can spend days and, in some cases, weeks away from their loved ones. So, when they’re home, that time with their friends and family members is incredibly valuable. For some truck drivers, the last thing they want to fill their time with while they are home is watching TV or movies. 

Sure, there are some people who love doing that together, but for others, the time at home is filled with things they cannot do on the road. 

Things like tending family gatherings, going to dinner, playing games, catching up with friends, and more tend to fill up the calendar, and watching shows takes the back seat. Being present with loved ones wins!

When drivers are on the road, there is mandatory rest and recovery time, and the perfect way to fill that downtime is by watching their favorite TV shows and movies and catching up on anything they missed while focusing on those they love. 

Once the text messages have been sent and video calls are done, drivers can kick back, relax, and catch up on all their favorite on-demand shows. 

3. Counteract Lonely and Isolating Feelings — It’s no secret that life on the road and behind the wheel can be incredibly isolating for truck drivers. Loneliness as a trucker during those long hauls (and even short ones!) is a real thing.
   
   These feelings of isolation can be shockingly overwhelming and can result in serious mental health issues. TV for truckers is a great way to counteract these negative emotions.

Being alone is not only about a lack of physical presence. It certainly is that; however, it is also a mental state. Having a TV in a truck can help fulfill the human need for personal connection and interaction.

Despite a driver being physically alone, the people on the screen can help counteract lonely feelings, keeping them company and feeling like they are a part of something.

Sure, there may be some people on long hauls truck drivers see periodically, like a fellow truck driver or a server or store clerk at their favorite truck stop, but, for the vast majority, the faces tuckers see on the road are not familiar ones. But the faces on their screens are familiar.

Want TV for Truckers? Get EpicVue!

Are you looking to get TV for truckers right from the comforts of their own cabs? EpicVue can help!

EpicVue allows truck drivers to kick back, relax and enjoy TV in a truck. Watching your favorite shows or catching up on the latest games or news on the road has never been easier! The comforts of home are available regardless of where you are with EpicVue, which allows you to stay connected.

Watching EpicVue during lonely long hauls can help counteract feelings of isolation. It is the perfect way for truck drivers to relax during mandatory downtime. Moreover, happy, healthy drivers are much more likely to stay with your fleet, significantly reducing the tedious and costly cycle of recruitment. 

EpicVue specializes in outfitting semi trucks with premium in-cab streaming services.

We offer your team members a tiny piece of home, comfort, and familiarity. EpicVUe allows them to unwind while watching TV from their own vehicle. This gesture is designed to create appreciation, commitment, and loyalty between drivers and their fleets. 

The benefits managers and drivers will experience make EpicVue well worth the small investment! Whether you are a part of a fleet or own your rig, EpicVue is a great addition to any truck.

Contact our team today to learn more!

Every experienced truck driver has a list of things that they absolutely need in their truck while they’re on the road.

When you’re going on a long trip, packing the essentials is, well, essential! And it’s no different for those in the business of long distance trucking. For truckers, packing can feel like a constant challenge. Drivers are extremely limited in what fits in their trucks. It is crucial that drivers be careful not to over-pack while still bringing enough to last you for the entire haul.

Another hurdle truck drivers face is if they happen to forget to pack something, truck stops might have the products you need if they’re lucky. And, if they don’t have what they need, getting to a store that has what they need can be a challenge in and of itself when driving an 18-wheeler. 

That’s why, today, we’re diving into the seven things every trucker should have in their semi truck during those long hauls. Continue reading below to learn more.

7 Things Every Truck Driver Should Have in Their Semi Trucks

1. Paperwork, Documentation, and Other Credentials — First and foremost, every truck driver should bring their permits, licenses, and any other necessary credentials on every trip. Drivers will need these documents when checking in at a weigh station or if they’re pulled over by law enforcement. Here’s what to bring along:

• CDL license
• Truck registration
• State permits
• Proof of insurance 
• Lon-form physical
• Logs
• TWIC
• Special certifications (i.e., transporting liquid tankers, hazardous materials, triple trailers, etc.)

2. Public Shower Sandals — It’s no secret that truckloads (see what we did there?) of people use the restrooms at truck stops, and the shower stalls they have are no different. This means there’s a huge potential for diseases to end up on truck drivers’ feet, such as athlete’s foot and other fungal or bacterial infections. Because of this nasty truth, drivers should do what they can to protect their feet: shower flip-flops! 

A dedicated pair of flip-flops will keep feet free from disgusting diseases and are easy to disinfect after showers. Moreover, they are shockingly inexpensive and can be discarded and repurchased whenever necessary.

3. On-the-Road Bathroom Supplies — Truck stops are glorious things for truck drivers, but they aren’t always available when nature calls. For those unfortunate moments on a long stretch of road with no stops for miles, truck drivers should have an emergency bathroom container complete with toilet paper, disinfectant wipes, and any other essentials.

4. Emergency Truck Kit — Every truck driver should bring along an emergency truck kit on every single trip. Long distance trucking comes with a lot of unknowns, and emergencies can come in all shapes and sizes; it’s not always a dangerous situation. Sometimes an emergency can be the air pressure gauge at the gas station is out, and you need to use your own. A safety kit should include items such as:

• Flashlight
• Jumper cables
• A complete tool kit
• Fuses
• A tarp
• Tire pressure gauge
• Bottled water
• Nonperishable food
• Gloves
• Flashlight and batteries
• Blanket
• Duct tape
• and more.

5. Emergency Road Essentials — These items could fall under the “emergency truck kit” above, but they deserve their own section because of their importance. Every truck driver should pack a high-visibility vest or jacket, road cones, and flares. 

A high-visibility vest or jacket is crucial for those nighttime, side-of-the-road stops. You never know when you’ll have to pull over on the side of the highway to check your load or tires. The fluorescent and reflective materials used in high-vis gear will help other drivers see you, keep you safe, and avoid potential accidents. For the same reasons, road cones and flares are a good idea, too! Road cones and flares will help warn other drivers on the road to mind their distance.

6. First Aid Kit — Like the emergency kit, every truck driver should bring a complete medical first aid kit on every haul. The kit should be inspected regularly to ensure everything is well-stocked and hasn’t expired. Make sure to include the following:

• A variety of adhesive bandages
• Gauze and tape
• Antibacterial ointment
• Compresses
• Pain relievers
• and more.

7. Entertainment Options — Long distance trucking is an exhausting profession. Thankfully, every trucker has a certain amount of mandatory rest and recovery time they must meet, depending on how many hours they’ve spent behind the wheel. All truck drivers should have a few entertainment options to help fill their time. Just remember to pack headphones and necessary chargers! Here are some ideas to fill that mandatory downtime:

• Podcasts and music
• eReader or book
• Portable movie player
• EpicVue, the best way to view streaming services on the road

EpicVue: A Must-Have for Every Truck Driver

Every truck driver, experienced or not, should have EpicVue in their semi truck.

There are many reasons why every trucker should have access to streaming services during their long hauls. Being able to watch a favorite show while away from home helps balance the intense feelings of loneliness and isolation that comes with life behind the wheel. Watching TV is the perfect way for truckers to relax during their mandatory rest and recovery time. 

Life on the road is undoubtedly lonely for truck drivers, so having a little bit of home — the ability to stream their favorite shows whenever and wherever they want — makes a huge, positive difference during their downtime. Our in-cab streaming services allow drivers to unwind from a long shift and watch what they want, when they want, from the comfort of their own cab. 

Are you a fleet manager? Team members who are happy, well-rested, and healthy are much more likely to stay loyal to your fleet, which significantly reduces the expensive, tedious cycle of recruitment and, as a result, will vastly improve your retention numbers. This awesome gesture is designed to renew appreciation and commitment between crew members and their managers. The benefits you and your drivers will see make EpicVue a worthy investment! 

Not part of a fleet? Not a problem! The professionals at EpicVue also specialize in outfitting owner-operator semi trucks with premium in-cab streaming services.

Contact our team to learn more about streaming services in semi trucks today.

Finding exercise equipment perfect for truckers can feel tricky, but we're filling you in on everything you need to take along during your long hauls.

Life on the road as a truck driver can make taking care of yourself, both mentally and physically, incredibly challenging. Days, sometimes weeks, are spent away from home and everyday routines, making getting in shape and maintaining your mental health and physique seemingly impossible! 

Regularly exercising when you're at home can be a mind-hurdle. But, when you're away from home and spending most of your hours behind the wheel, exercising on a regular basis can feel even more difficult. But by bringing along portable exercise equipment, truck drivers can get their sweat on and stick to their health goals.

Continue reading to learn more about the best truck driver exercise equipment to bring along on your long hauls.

6 Pieces of Effective Exercise Equipment Perfect for Truckers

There's only so much space in your truck cab, so finding equipment that is compact, inexpensive, effective, and portable is essential. Truck driving is sedentary in nature, so truckers must make a concerted effort and intentional choice to maintain their mental and physical health. Having a workout routine that meets your needs and lifestyle is crucial if you want to maintain a healthy, long-term truck driving career.

If you're looking for pieces of exercise equipment perfect for truckers and truck driver workouts, then you've come to the right place! We're breaking down some pieces of equipment that make on-the-road truck driver exercise actually plausible. 

Here are six pieces of exercise equipment and trucker workouts that you need to know about:

Kettlebell

Kettlebells are versatile pieces of exercise equipment and perfect for truck driver workouts. In fact, you can do a full-body workout inside or outside of your truck with kettlebells alone! They can be used for endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility training. Here are some ways you can use kettlebells:

• Kettlebell squat
• Kettlebell deadlift
• Weighted lunges
• Bent-over row
• Kettlebell swing
• Single-arm push press
• Weighted sit-ups

Adjustable Incline Bench

A portable exercise bench that folds flat is perfect for people living life on the road. An incline bench will allow you to get more out of your workouts and better work various parts of your body. You'll be able to perform countless types of truck driver workouts using the bench. Here are some ways to incorporate a bench into your workouts:

• Bench press
• Single arm row
• Bench pushups
• Bulgarian split squats
• Step-ups
• Bench dips

Smartphone

Sure, your phone can give your thumbs a great workout, but that's not what we're talking about. There are countless exercise apps you can download on your phone or videos you can watch on social media apps. Many of these workouts do not require any pieces of equipment and only use your body weight. Though, you'll find many videos that utilize the equipment you can bring on your hauls.

You don't even have to spend money on these (although there are plenty of workout apps that you can pay for monthly or yearly subscriptions). Who knows that one of your best pieces of exercise equipment is your smartphone or laptop?

Dumbbells

Utilizing dumbbells is a great way to compound exercise and work many of the muscles in your body. Moreover, this equipment won't take up a lot of valuable space in your truck cab! You can complete a full-body workout in 15 to 20 minutes just by bringing along dumbbells on your shifts! Here's what you can do with a pair of dumbbells:

• Dumbbell squat with bicep curl
• Tricep extensions with a forward lunge
• Double shoulder press sit-ups
• Dumbbell plank with arm raise
• One-arm dumbbell snatch

Pedal Exerciser 

A great way to get the blood moving throughout your body and get your legs moving is with a pedal exerciser. You don't have to buy huge pieces of equipment to get this workout under your belt. Nowadays, they have just the foot part with pedals that can fold. Type "under desk pedal exerciser" in your favorite search engine and find one that speaks to you.

Most exercisers have adjustable tension knobs that give you the option to change the intensity of your workout and customize it to your physical level.

Resistance Bands 

Resistance bands are perfect for trucker workouts because they are easily stored in your cab, are convenient and effective, and are inexpensive! You'll be able to complete many workouts that target your legs, chest, shoulders, arms, and core.

Resistance bands are ideal for strength training and even stretching. You can perform these exercises on a vertical and a horizontal plane, giving you many options for working your muscles.

• Lawnmower pull
• Bent over row
• Overhead press
• Tricep pull backs 
• Various lunges and squats
• Bicep curls
• Overhead pull apart
• Lateral walks

EpicVue Can Help Get You Through Your Workout

Exercise equipment perfect for truckers on the road is essential for a healthy lifestyle and career. These trucker workouts will allow you to achieve your fitness goals. If you're looking for ways to help the time go by faster during your workouts, turn on some premium in-cab satellite TV with EpicVue!

With vehicles outfitted with EpicVue, truck drivers can kick back and relax or work out while watching their favorite TV shows and catching up on the latest sports events and news. It doesn't matter where they are on the road; the comforts of home are available to truckers with our satellite TV that allows them to stay connected.

There's no doubt that long hauls can leave you feeling isolated and lonely, but watching TV while you're on the road can help counteract those heavy feelings. This is the perfect way for truck drivers to relax during their mandatory recovery and rest time in the comfort of their own trucks. 

Equipping vehicles with EpicVue helps create loyalty, appreciation, and commitment between drivers and their fleets. Moreover, healthy, happy employees are much more likely to stay with their fleet, significantly reducing the tedious, pricey recruitment cycle. The benefits you and your team will see make EpicVue well worth the small investment! Even if you aren't in a fleet and own your own rig, you'll find that EpicVue is a great addition to your truck!

With over 100 premium channels, you are sure to find something they want to watch, regardless of their preferences, during truck driver exercise routines. Contact us today to learn more!

Have you ever wondered how a truck driver watches TV in a semi-truck? We're filling you in on the best ways to do it.

It probably doesn't come as too big of a shock that the life of a trucker is a lot different than a typical nine-to-five job. Life on the road and being away from family and other loved ones is incredibly challenging. That, coupled with the intense pressures that come with delivery deadlines and constantly fighting traffic, is a recipe for exhausted workers. It's no wonder why rest and recovery time is so essential in the industry.

Finding at least a couple of activities or ways to relax and disconnect from the day's stresses is crucial for truck drivers. A lot of truckers take up hobbies like reading or exercising. Others choose to learn an instrument or a new language is also a great way to unwind. 

But, the best way for all to relax and settle in for the night, one that just about everybody can all get on board with, is watching TV. But how do truck drivers watch TV on the road? Well, there are a few ways they can do this. 

Continue reading to learn more.

How to Watch TV in Semi Trucks

There are many ways truckers can watch TV, movies, and other types of content during their time on a long haul. Some haulers prefer to keep it old school and off the grid by watching their go-to shows and movies offline. This method requires a TV, DVDs, a DVD player, and the necessary cables. Today, buying DVDs isn't too expensive. However, if you're an avid collector, you might spend a lot of money on your collection. Also, you'll want to remember that many new releases are not readily available on DVD. 

Another excellent option for truck drivers wanting to watch shows and movies on the road is streaming services. There are over 200 different streaming services you can subscribe to; however, you'll have a hard time catching up on the news, current sporting events, and shows that are airing in real-time. With most streaming services, you're left watching episodes of shows and movies that have been available for months or even years — content that you have likely already seen.

Not too long ago, watching TV — the same TV you would watch at home on your couch — on the road from the cab of a semi-truck seemed like it could never be a possibility. Thankfully, truck drivers can now watch their favorite TV programs and movies from the comfort of their trucks. 

How Watching Satellite TV in Semi Trucks Works

Giving a trucker the ability to watch premium in-vehicle satellite TV is an exciting option! To watch TV while they're on the road, they'll need some equipment:

• A satellite dome and receiver
• TV screen
• Cabling and mounting equipment
• Local area antenna 

The beauty of satellite TV is that it works from anywhere at any time! There's no worrying about fighting for WiFI bandwidth at busy truck stops or dead zones with little or no signal.

Great for Owner-Operators or Members of Fleets

Watching satellite TV while you're on a long haul is an exciting potential where awesome innovation and advanced technology meet. Whether you're an owner-operator or a fleet member, you can outfit your truck with satellite TV in a few mounting options.

Options for Satellite Mounting

It doesn't matter if you're smack dab in the city or the middle of nowhere; finding a signal isn't an issue with these mounting options:

• Roof Mount — Roof mounts feature three footings that are permanently attached to the top of the truck cab.
• Rear Mount — Rear mounts are permanently and securely attached to a slip bracket near the truck cab's rear.
• Window Mount — Window mounts attach to a small, temporary bracket that hangs from the driver or passenger window. The satellite dome and mount are taken down and stored inside the truck cab when it is not in use or the semi is moving.

Today's aerodynamic and sleek satellite dome designs and these great mounting options decrease wind resistance, thus eliminating any negative effects on your trucks' fuel mileage.

More on How to Watch TV in Semi Trucks

The ability to watch TV and movies during rest and recovery time during a long haul is an exciting concept for semi-drivers. It wasn't all that long ago that this idea would cost multiple thousands of dollars. Now, equipping your semi trucks with satellite TV is a simple and modest investment. Here's how it works:

• For obvious safety reasons, semi trucks must be stationary.
• Park your truck so the satellite dome has an unobstructed view of the southeastern sky.
• The trucker has an easy-to-use switch to turn the satellite on and off.
• After a few minutes to calibrate, your satellite will retrieve the signal.
• Turn on your receiver and TV and watch your favorite live or recorded television shows and movies!
• When drivers are sleeping or behind the wheel, they can use the DVR to record any shows they don't want to miss safely.

Want to Watch Satellite TV In Your Semi Truck? Get EpicVue!

Watching TV from the comforts of your semi truck has never been easier than it is with EpicVue. We specialize in outfitting your trucks with premium in-cab satellite TV. 

Life behind the wheel and on the road can be incredibly isolating; however, watching TV during those long hauls can help counteract those lonely feelings. It's the perfect way for drivers to spend their mandatory rest and recovery time. If you want your drivers to be happy and healthy and stay with your fleet longer, give them a piece of home with EpicVue.

With more than 180 premium satellite TV channels, your drivers will surely find something they'll want to watch, regardless of their TV-watching preferences. Contact us to learn more today!

Between rising operations costs, demanding customers, employee and supply shortages, and more, fleet management is becoming more and more challenging.

The stresses of managing a fleet can be incredibly overwhelming. Handling constant variables and changes with finesse is becoming more and more important to optimize your team's performance.

If you are looking to tighten your fleet's metaphorical screws and improve your management skills, there are several things you can do.

Continue reading to learn more below.

5 Ways to Improve Your Fleet Management

Implementing the following practices should get your fleet in tip-top shape and allow you to handle whatever the next wave of economic surprises might be. Here's what you need to know:

1. CUT MAINTENANCE COSTS

Like many other things in today's economy, maintenance costs have been on the rise, increasing nearly 30% year after year. So, finding ways to reduce these costs needs to be every fleet manager's top priority. Staying ahead of maintenance problems can help improve fleet efficiency and ensure that your vehicles and equipment are ready.

The key here is to take a preventive (not reactive) approach to maintenance. With a quality fleet management system in place, you can help proactively extend the life of your vehicles. These systems can tell you a lot about your trucks' engines and other diagnostic problems immediately, allowing you to handle any issues before they become more serious.

Base your vehicle's maintenance schedule on accurate engine usage hours and automatic service clears instead of an arbitrary calendar date.

This will aid in eliminating unnecessary repairs and allow you to make the most of your vehicles while taking the best possible care of them. This will also avoid equipment breakdown that leads to lost revenue.

2. SAVE DOLLARS ON FUEL

There's no question that fuel costs fluctuate and change like the wind. And there's no denying that a massive portion of a fleet manager's budget is dedicated to fueling expenses; it can account for nearly 60% of overall operating costs. Reducing fuel usage helps cut costs and is great for the environment.

With a sound management system in place and GPS tracking, you can monitor your drivers' fuel usage and assess their driving performance and behavior, directly affecting fuel consumption.

Tracking and analyzing this information alerts you quickly to issues you may not have noticed. Not only will this help you address problem areas concerning fuel usage, but it also alerts you to any safety issues, like aggressive driving.

Once these issues are addressed, you can significantly reduce legal and operational costs tied to an at-fault accident.

3. OPTIMIZE AND PERFECT ROUTES

Optimized and perfected routes are essential for your business' reputation. Customers demand quick deliveries within a specific time window, and inaccurate arrival time estimates and inefficient routes lead to disappointment.

A business known for its quality customer service and on-time deliveries is essential for growth and continued operation. With an advanced management system, you can keep your drivers on schedule, keep their routes as efficient as possible, and receive close to real-time updates.

Hiccups along the way are an inevitable part of the industry. However, automatic customer notifications can reduce a large amount of this stress.

4. AUTOMATE WORKFLOWS AND OPERATIONS

Are you still using a paper-based system? If so, it's time to toss them in the recycling bin and join the digital age.

A digitized workflow and operation will optimize your fleet's performance and vastly improve time management by reducing the risk of unavoidable human error and miscommunication. According to a McKinsey study, systems utilizing data analytics can reduce fleet costs by up to 12%.

Automating tasks, like invoicing and billing clients and customers, routing and scheduling deliveries, and sending jobs to drivers, can eliminate the need for the manager to do this, resulting in additional time and resources to put towards other needs.

5. PRIORITIZE YOUR FLEET'S WELLNESS

One of the best things a fleet manager can do is prioritize your drivers' health and wellness. This skill includes promoting positive mental health and a healthy work-life balance. Undoubtedly, life on the road can affect a crew member's well-being. Here are a few ways a great fleet manager can prioritize their fleet's health:

• Communicate With Loved Ones — Encourage communication with friends and family back home. Make sure they are taking their required breaks so they have the chance to check in with a quick text or call. Consider equipping your vehicles with Bluetooth technology so they can talk while they drive.

• Encourage Fleet Interaction — Get your crew engaging with each other on their radios. Frequent small talk and sharing their stories can help counteract loneliness.

• Watch TV — Being alone, mentally and physically, is hard. However, watching television can help fulfill human interaction and connection needs.

Want to Improve Your Fleet Management? Equip Your Vehicles with EpicVue!

Finding ways to improve your fleet management is essential. One of the best ways to let your crew know you care is to equip your vehicles with EpicVue.

EpicVue specializes in outfitting your fleet with premium in-cab satellite television. We offer your drivers a bit of home on the road. Watching TV with EpicVue allows them to kick back, relax, and watch their favorite shows in their own trucks.

This practical gesture not only lets your drivers get that much-needed R and R, but it also shows your crew appreciation. In return, you're much more likely to receive loyalty and commitment, making these benefits well worth the investment!

With EpicVue, your team can catch up on their favorite shows and the latest games or news even while they're on their route. The comforts and feelings of home are hard to come by during long hauls, but your drivers can get a bit of home, regardless of where they are.

With nearly 200 premium channels, your drivers will find something to watch, regardless of their unique preferences.

Contact us today to learn more!