Truck Driver Essentials : Amenities Every Truck Driver Should Use
Long-haul truck driving is a demanding job that requires skill, dedication, and professionalism. Often, truck drivers are required to command the cockpit for long hours over multiple days, across different geographies and terrains. Remaining alert and ensuring that their truck and cargo are safe at all times is an ever-present priority.
To make sure drivers always operate at complete efficiency, they need to stop to take regular breaks to refuel, inspect vehicle parts, and recharge.
Truck stops provide everything drivers need to remain prepared for their trip – providing basic amenities and resources to ensure they deliver their haul efficiently.
Here are a few great amenities every truck driver should make use of.
Large and secure parking
During long-distance hauls, especially overnight routes, drivers will likely become fatigued and will need to rest before they can safely continue their trip. Truck parking areas are large spaces where truck drivers are able to park their trucks and rest.
They are safe places where drivers are able to inspect their vehicles and cargo, eat some food, and relax in the company of other drivers.
TIP Secure Truck Parking is a great example of a safe parking facility for truck drivers. With 24/7 security, hundreds of parking spaces, and a driver lounge that has free Wi-Fi and showers, laundry services, and snacks, the service is complete with a restaurant too.
Additionally, there are TIP Trailer Services on site to assist with mechanical and body maintenance.
You can find the best parking facilities in Europe here:
*Please note that reservations are required.
CAT Scales
Experienced truck drivers will know that keeping the haul under a particular weight is not only essential, but it is also required by law. Fluctuating weight can hinder the ability to handle the truck safely and can lead to slipping and flipping.
Most reputable truck stops have CAT scales available for drivers to remain informed of their cargo weight through accurate information. This gives drivers peace of mind knowing they are operating within the law and ensuring road safety.
Service stations
Experiencing mechanical issues during a haul is common, especially when drivers have been on the road for many hours. Truck stops are the ideal place for drivers to inspect their vehicles and fix the problem.
If the issue is more complex or requires professional assistance, many truck stops have service stations with mechanics on hand to assist. Service stations ensure speedy maintenance and repair solutions that get drivers back on the road quickly so as to not jeopardise delivery time.
Shower facilities
Sitting in the driver’s seat for hours on end will result in sweat and discomfort. For long hauls and overnight carries, it is important for drivers to have access to shower facilities to clean themselves and wash off the day.
Not only is this important for hygiene purposes, but showering also serves to loosen the muscles and destress the driver to ensure they are relaxed and in the right headspace. Showers also make drivers more alert and recharged, and ready to get back on the road.
Restaurants
Long-distance driving can make drivers hungry. Hunger can start with frustration and impatience before leading to physical issues like fatigue, nausea and stomach cramps — resulting in drivers not being able to operate their trucks efficiently.
Restaurants ensure drivers have ample opportunity to provide themselves with nourishment to remain safe on the roads at all times. Truck parking facilities like TIP Secure Truck Parking and others offer fully operational restaurants for drivers to enjoy a wide selection of decent meals to rest and refuel themselves before continuing their trip.
Summary
These amenities play a crucial role in helping truck drivers deliver their cargo safely and efficiently. Long-distance driving is a demanding undertaking that requires a lot of patience and appreciation. Ensuring drivers are always alert, well-rested, and in control of their vehicle maintenance guarantees their deliveries are on time, every time.
About TIP Used
Ensure your drivers are rested and your vehicles are well taken care of at TIP Secure Truck Parking.
TIP Used – part of Europe’s leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP Group – is one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers in the commercial vehicle sector.
With over 55 years of experience, TIP Used is the most trusted and respected name in the industry, offering a variety of well-maintained used products from the best brands in Europe, including Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN and DAF. With 120 TIP workshop locations, you can also request any modifications to a vehicle before purchasing while enjoying extra services such as lifecycle maintenance and repair, as well as telematics.
Visit TIP Used to find the used trailer that best suits your haulage needs on a budget. One of the local Sales Managers will be happy to help you find the perfect transport solution to expand your fleet without compromising safety and quality.
