Summer is well on its way, and for professional truck drivers, the summer heat comes with safety challenges to be aware of. Beat the heat and stay safe with these summer tips:

Hydration on the Road

The summer heat can dehydrate you fast if you aren’t drinking enough water. Even for truck drivers who are sitting for long periods of time, it is important to stay hydrated!

Aim to drink eight glasses of water a day to help you feel your best. Consider investing in a reusable water bottle to take with you and fill it up on the go!

Watch Your Tire Pressure

Underinflated tires are much more likely to happen when the weather is hot and road temperatures have increased. The last thing you want is to have an accident or be stranded in the summer heat due to a tire blowout.

Make sure to double-check your tire pressure before getting on the road. It is also a good idea to regularly check during your pit stops.

Don’t Forget the SPF

Did you know that you are still being exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays when you are inside a vehicle? During the summer, it is especially important to apply sunscreen to avoid harmful sun exposure that can seep through your truck’s windows.

You could also consider wearing a hat or long-sleeve shirts to protect your skin in addition to sunscreen, along with UV-protectant sunglasses.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Severe weather can occur out of nowhere in the summer. Some states are more prone to sudden inclement weather than others.

That’s why it is important to be aware of local weather reports before you drive so that you can stay up to date if a storm is incoming. If you run into some rain, be sure to drive slowly and be cautious when making turns. Use your discretion and pull over if the weather does go south on your trip.

Stay cautious and keep these safety tips in mind while you are on the road this summer.

Looking to upgrade your truck in 2023? Visit our website today to view our current inventory!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

As a truck driver, there may be times you find yourself driving at night. While you must be cautious and safe every time you’re on the road, night driving comes with its own unique set of challenges for drivers.

Advantages of Night Driving

There are many perks to driving your route during the nighttime, including less traffic on the road, less construction going on and fewer distractions. This gives you ample opportunity to focus on driving and getting where you need to be on time.

Disadvantages of Night Driving

While driving at night has its perks, there are also downsides to driving when most other people are asleep. For starters, you may be disrupting your natural sleep pattern.

When you do need to stop for a rest, finding an area in a truck park may be challenging since lots of other drivers are already parked and resting. Additionally, it may be harder to see obstacles in the road without the light that daytime provides.

Considerations When Driving at Night

It’s no secret that driving in the dark can be challenging. Here are a few things to consider when you find yourself driving at night:

Take a short nap. If you aren’t a night owl, your body will naturally want to sleep when you need to stay awake. Consider taking a brief rest before embarking on your night route to re-energize.

Take a (cautious) walk. Getting outside and moving your body may be just what you need to get that much-needed burst of energy. Be cautious about your surroundings, only walk in well-lit truck stops and wear a visibility jacket if you choose to stop on the side of the road. A short stroll may be exactly what you need to keep trekking along throughout the night.

Lower the cab’s temperature. Many people would agree that cool air is a good way to keep them awake. Consider lowering the temperature within the cab and opening the window to let the evening air into the truck periodically. The sound of the wind outside can also help keep you alert when you begin to get sleepy.

Is it time to upgrade your truck to keep your business running? Visit our website today to view our current inventory!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Being on the road for long periods of time can be challenging for anyone. Even if you love your job and the ability to travel all over, there may be times when you’re feeling a little homesick.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make your time on the road feel more like home!

Keep in Touch With Loved Ones

It’s no secret that truck drivers can feel lonesome from time to time. Even if you’re an introvert and enjoy your alone time, it’s important to keep in touch with your loved ones.

Make a point to call your family and friends during your breaks and check in when you know something is going on. A simple phone call can go far!

Stay Active

We know that exercise has an array of benefits, and it may be even more important for long-haulers to keep an exercise routine. Since truckers sit for long periods, carving out time for movement can have numerous physical and mental benefits.

You can enjoy walking or jogging to explore your surroundings or get a national gym membership and check out gyms in different states.

Take Time to be a Tourist

If you’re driving along an unfamiliar route, take time to do some research. What sights are there to see? Where is the largest tourist attraction in the area? If possible, make a list and stop when you can. It may be fun to get out, walk around and see what other tourists enjoy in the area!

It may also be a good idea to write down or take photos of your travels. When you come close to that attraction on a future route, you can always stop by again!

Keep Your Mind Active

Long trips and winding roads can make you feel sleepy and groggy. Getting adequate rest and stopping when you need to is important, but when you’re in the middle of a route and want some mental stimulation, there are many options to choose from.

Many long-haulers enjoy listening to music, audiobooks and podcasts. As long as you can stay focused and safe on the road, listen to whatever you enjoy!

When you’re ready to upgrade your truck, we have a large inventory to choose from! Visit our website to view our complete inventory of trucks and car haulers..

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Being on the road often means you’re away from loved ones, your warm bed and other household amenities for long periods of time. This can make anyone homesick and feel like they’re worn down by their work schedule.

Instead of becoming stressed out when it’s time to make a living, consider incorporating these tips to help achieve a better work-life balance.

Why Is Work-Life Balance a Priority?

Having balance makes you a better employee in any industry. When you’re on the road, it is important to maintain your mental and physical health—not just for your sake, but for others, as well.

Work-Life Balance Tips

Incorporate a portable hobby into your travels. What do you enjoy doing? Can you bring it along with you on the road? The key here is to keep your brain stimulated while you’re away from home. Consider taking up photography to capture your travels, drawing beautiful scenery or learning a new language. Whatever hobby you choose to pursue, be sure to plan ahead so you have all the supplies you need when you set out on your next route.

Communicate with others frequently. It can be easy to feel disconnected from the “real world” when you’re out on the road. The next time you make a stop, give your spouse, a loved one or a friend a call. Just hearing a familiar voice and having a short conversation can boost your mental health significantly.

Bring along entertainment. Before you head out on your next route, be sure to have a stock of entertainment handy. Download audiobooks, try out a new podcast and bring a book or two with you. When it’s time to wind down after a long day of driving, a nice book may be exactly what you need to relax.

Plan your routes intentionally. If you have a new restaurant you want to try or an attraction you want to see, consider planning your routes around these places. Having some fun while on the road can help you stay engaged, entertained and interested on your routes.

Visit our website today for all of your trucking and financing needs!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Safety is of utmost importance as a trucker. There are concerns over keeping yourself safe, as well as others on the road.

Most long-haulers know the ins and outs of truck safety, but it is never a bad idea to brush up on ways to improve your safety routine.

Perform Truck Inspections Regularly

Before and after every trip, give your truck a good look-over. Vehicle inspections are required by the Department of Transportation for good reason and performing them as much as possible is beneficial.

Before heading out on your next haul and when you’re at a truck stop, take a walk around the vehicle. This can help prevent any mishaps from occurring along your route.

Be a Defensive Driver

Being on the road for long periods of time comes with lots of challenges. You are constantly faced with difficult drivers all hours of the day and night.

Practicing defensive driving is a great way to keep yourself and others safe on the road. Avoiding road rage, slowing down as needed and always checking blind spots is key when driving such a large vehicle.

Improve Alertness and Focus

It’s no secret that long-haulers have to be awake, alert and focused in order to get from point A to point B safely. Fortunately, there are many ways to increase alertness while operating a large truck.

Becoming sleepy on the road can be dangerous for not only yourself but many others. If you’re feeling tired and unable to focus on driving, be sure to take a few moments to rest at a truck stop.

Take Breaks as Needed

It may be tempting to go, go, go to reach your destination. In reality, trucking is a physically and mentally taxing occupation that should be treated as such. Be sure to spend time relaxing, resting, and focusing on nonwork-related things.

Remember that being safe on the road isn’t just important for you, but for many others, as well. Practicing defensive driving, staying alert, and taking breaks when you need to are great ways to improve your safety while on the road.

To view our complete inventory and learn about financing options today, visit our website!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Long-haul trucking is a career that requires long periods away from your home, family and friends. This can get lonely and can make you miss the amenities of your own warm, comfortable home.

Fortunately, there are many ways to make your truck’s cab feel like a second home while you’re out on the road.

Personalize Your Space

Just because your truck is your money-maker, doesn’t mean you can’t personalize your cab so it feels cozier.

Consider adding photos of loved ones with damage-free command hooks or hanging posters or artwork. You can also hang LED lighting to make the space feel like your home away from home.

Don’t Forget Entertainment

After a hard day’s work, you’ll want to relax before heading to bed. Just like at home, your go-to method to rewind may be watching television or a movie.

Consider adding a DVD player or TV to your cab—some even come with a TV hookup! For streaming services, you will need a Wi-Fi connection and can utilize a mobile hotspot if needed.

If you prefer to unwind with a good book, be sure to stock up on a few before heading out on the road. Think about what you enjoy doing for leisure at home and bring those items along with you in your cab.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Area

Getting a good night’s rest isn’t only important for your health but is also necessary for maintaining safety on the road.

A mattress pad can help you create a more relaxing space. Blankets and pillows can add comfort and help you feel more at home in your truck’s cab.

Add Appliances

Adding appliances to your truck’s cab can truly bring the conveniences of home on the road.

Many truckers opt for a mini-fridge and microwave so they can make their own meals without stopping all the time. Single-serve coffee makers also fit in a cab and can help you get your caffeine fix first thing in the morning.

Stay Organized With Storage Options

Clear, plastic storage containers can help keep your belongings from cluttering up your space. Since your cab is small and you’ll be spending lots of time in there, the last thing you want is to be surrounded by a messy space.

Also consider keeping plastic baggies handy, since leftovers can be stored in them and they are a better space-saving solution compared to Tupperware.

For all of your trucking needs, including sales and parts, contact us today!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

When you start a new job, making mistakes is common. Here are a few mistakes that new truckers tend to make—and how to avoid them.

Being Overconfident

It’s finally time to get on the open road—congratulations! You’ve worked hard to get here, and you should be proud of your accomplishments.

When you begin your first trucking job, continue being cautious, safe and well-mannered on the road. Being overly confident may cause you to not take safety precautions seriously and can lead to accidents and unsafe situations with other drivers.

Even though you’ve been trained and have acquired the proper licensing, you are still a newbie on the road and have a lot to learn.

Lacking Flexibility and Having Unrealistic Expectations

In the perfect commercial driving world, everyone would be cautious and courteous on the road. This is not the reality in any case, for any trucker.

While long hauling is a great job for many people, having an idyllic and unrealistic view of a trucker’s day-to-day experience can be dangerous and frankly, frustrating to the new driver. There are going to be high winds that shake your truck, inconsiderate drivers who will test your patience, and exhausting sweaty summer days.

There may even be times when you get to your destination only to find that the shipper has canceled their load. The key is to focus on things you can control, not things you can’t.

You will experience stress while on the road, but you can’t control every situation and have to learn how to brush some things off.

Neglecting Your Health

Truckers tend to work long hours in sedentary conditions. This is the perfect scenario for health concerns, such as obesity, to occur.

It can also be easy to eat prepackaged, unhealthy food options when you’re on the road.

How to Avoid These Mistakes

When you’re new to any job, making mistakes is inevitable. It’s part of the learning process and helps you become a better trucker over time.

Providing a solid foundation—and minimizing rookie mistakes—can set you up for success in your trucking career. Remember to stay humble and cautious on the road, and be flexible as needed.

As for keeping yourself healthy, there are many options to improve your eating on the road and consider moving your body during stops, instead of lounging in your truck.

Ready to upgrade your current truck? Contact us today to learn about our financing options!

Copyright © 2023 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

With winter upon us, truckers will face many challenges on the road. Weather conditions may make it difficult for long-haulers to see clearly while driving, avoid obstacles and keep their windshields clear.

To keep yourself and others safe this winter, here are a few winter driving tips that all truckers can use!

1. Keep Your Distance

You should be driving approximately seven to 14 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. Stopping distances for commercial vehicles vary based on many factors, but you should always make a point to leave an adequate amount of space between your truck and other vehicles on the road.

2. Clean Ice Thoroughly

Ice can easily build up on windows and mirrors in cold conditions. If you can’t see out of your truck, you aren’t able to keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road.

Before embarking out for your route and whenever you stop for a break, check your mirrors and windows and clean them off as needed.

3. Slow Down

Yes, you have somewhere to get to in a timely manner, but your safety is more important. Driving fast tends to decrease your wheel traction, but slowing down can help increase your traction.

4. Accelerate and Decelerate Gradually

On icy roads, trying to accelerate or decelerate quickly can cause your truck to jackknife. Since your tractor has to pull the trailer, starting and stopping slowly is the best way to navigate icy conditions.

5. Make Sure You’re Visible

Be sure to clean off your lights and make sure they’re on at all times. Keep your reflective tape and lights free of snow and ice.

6. Start Braking Early

Intersections could potentially be icier than roadways. Begin braking early to prevent slipping and alert vehicles behind you that you’ll soon be stopping.

7. Be Cautious on Bridges

Bridges tend to be more slippery than roadways themselves. They also tend to freeze first. Use caution and drive slowly when crossing a bridge.

Before you begin your next route, make sure you’re aware of what the weather conditions are expected to be. Prepare your truck so you can keep yourself and others on the road as safe as possible.

Ready to purchase a new truck? Visit our website to view our current stock of trucks and trailers!

Copyright © 2022 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Eating healthy isn’t the easiest thing to do when you’re spending long periods of time on the road. Between the fast food stops and gas station snacks, it’s easy to grab something quick and unhealthy when you start feeling hungry.

Instead of filling your body with greasy, unhealthy foods, use these tips to boost your health while on the road.

Keep Healthy Foods on Hand

Keeping healthy options in your truck—that don’t require refrigeration—is a great option when you’re in need of quick nourishment. Fruits, including apples, bananas and oranges, are great additions to your snack supply. Fruit can also aid in digestion and boost energy levels, keeping you focused for the long day ahead.

Another great shelf-stable snack option includes nuts and seeds. These may be messy in your cab, so opting for a larger nut, like peanuts or cashews, would be beneficial. Nuts and seeds offer high amounts of protein and healthy fats that keep you satisfied with only a small serving.

If you’d prefer to go the protein bar route, choose options that are on the healthier side. There are some pre-made bars that are made with whole foods, while others are filled with processed ingredients. The key here is to choose the correct bar to keep handy in your truck.

Keep Portions Small

When you feel a snack attack coming on, it’s easy to eat, eat, eat until you feel full. Chances are, you’re actually eating more than you need to.

This can cause bloating, digestive upset, and feelings of sluggishness. Since you’re driving for long periods of time, the last thing you want to feel is sleepy.

Instead, eat smaller portions and eat until you feel satisfied. Eating slowly can also help you recognize that satisfied feeling without going overboard. It may be beneficial to eat five to six smaller meals daily, instead of two to three larger meals.

Opt for Healthier Choices

Stopping at a fast food restaurant or gas station for a meal is inevitable. Instead of ordering something greasy, opt for a grilled chicken sandwich, salads, or protein boxes.

You can start small and add in a salad here and there, or order a burger without added bacon.

When you’re sitting for long periods of time, you want to make sure you’re putting healthy foods into your body. Making small changes can have a big impact on your overall energy, digestion, and health as a long-haul trucker.

Are you in the market for a new truck? Contact us to view our inventory!

Copyright © 2022 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Since truckers travel throughout different climates, it is likely that you’ll experience some chilly nights while out on the road. As the seasons change and the weather begins to cool down in most areas, it is important to keep warm in the nighttime.

With a few preparations, you can make sure you’re staying cozy in your cab so you can get a good night’s sleep.

Layer Up

The right clothing can help keep you nice and warm when the temperature drops. Layers are perfect since you can add and take away as needed. As a base layer, long underwear is a great way to maintain your body heat.

Be sure to bring thermal socks and mittens for those especially chilly nights. Choose pieces that can be easily taken off in case you find yourself too warm in the middle of the night!

Invest in a Good Blanket

Down comforters are a great way to warm up instantly. They also come in different options, so you can choose one that works well for both the climate you’ll be in and your personal preferences.

Some truckers bring along sleeping bags to use at nighttime. These work well but tend to be cold and take some time to warm up. Down comforters provide instant warmth and don’t have to be stuffed back into a bag.

Utilize Sunshades

Sunshades are a great multifunctional tool for drivers! They act as insulation in the evenings and can help maintain the warmth in your cab.

In the morning, sunshades prevent the bright sun from waking truckers up before their alarm.

Warm the Cab Beforehand

When you’re settling down for the evening, blast the hot air to warm up the cab. It’ll make your sleeping area cozy so you can get a good night’s rest. Remember to turn it down before you go to sleep to prevent waking in a puddle of sweat!

Getting a good night’s sleep when you’re out driving all day is important. Aside from the health benefits of sleep, truckers need to be awake, alert, and able to concentrate to stay safe on the roads.

Keeping warm when the weather gets chilly is a great way to create a cozy, relaxing environment so you can get a good night’s rest!

When you’re ready to upgrade your truck, give us a call. Check out our selection of trucks today!

Copyright © 2022 West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.