One thing you can count on is that once your truck starts to move, it will eventually need to stop. Hopefully, that stop is planned, of your own accord, and where you had hoped to come to a halt. Truck stops got their start in the USA as far back as the 1940s, with chain truck stops making their way onto the scene in the early 1970s. Deregulation, including the passage of the Motor Carrier Act of 1980, paved the way for further growth in the trucking industry. More growth meant more truckers and more truck stops. Those truck stops are a part of American history and certainly have changed over time. Fuel, parking, and driver care are crucial elements for an ideal truck stop in our modern era.
Fuel
The trucks in your fleet are well-oiled machines. It’s essential to feed them the best diesel possible. Putting quality fuel in your trucks can mean fewer mechanical headaches, longer overall engine life, and improved fuel economy. When looking at stops along your planned routes, do you look for a certain consistency? Love’s is an interesting case. Their high-quality fuel is consistent because they have their own fuel refineries. TA is also well known for always having top-quality diesel for every fill-up along your route. Plan ahead to ensure the highest quality fuel for your fleet.
Parking
After several hours behind the wheel, drivers don’t want to struggle with parking problems at a truck stop. Drivers need ample and comfortable places to park their trucks. Choose a location like Love’s or TA that provides reserved, practical truck parking. No one wants to have to perform a motorized miracle to squeeze their truck into an unusual, unprepared space. Parking should be seen as a critical part process. Parking troubles shouldn’t be on your list of concerns. Pick the right truck stop that prioritizes your business with proper parking placement procedures.
Driver Care
In 2022, a truck stop is more than a fuel stop. It’s a whole experience. Or it can be. It depends on which truck stops you choose as part of your route. High-quality showers are a nice amenity. Those showers could come in handy, especially if the truck stop has a fitness center or yoga location. Dental services can be found at select locations for those truckers who want to check their smile on the go. Let’s not forget the most important driver care amenity; pet areas. Love’s and TA prioritize what you prioritize, your pets. These truck stops provide a place for your furry travel companion to unwind and destress from the rigors of being on the road for extended periods.
No two drivers are the same. Figure out what is most important to you and do the research upfront. You won’t regret it when you arrive at the stop of your choosing to find all of the things you want and need.
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The England Carrier Services (ECS) division offers various services for carriers ranging from maintenance to support. As ECS members, carriers have access to nationwide discounts on fuel and tires from dedicated team members committed to finding the best price. ECS also provides factoring services with benefits such as same-day funding to a bank account or fuel card. These options allow carriers the freedom to focus on growing their business while saving time and money.