• Pre-trip maintenance includes checking fluids, replacing worn components, and rotating tires.
• Plan ahead for routes with possible traffic and tolls, weather conditions, truck stops and accommodations, driving hours, and fuel requirements.
• Pack essentials such as emergency supplies, non-perishable snacks and drinks, and tools
• Allot time for reviewing company policies, such as travel time and breaks.
• Adding leisure time to the itinerary to reduce stress and fatigue.
Whether you’re looking to make a long-distance trip for business or just need to transport goods a few hundred miles, adequately preparing your commercial vehicle is essential. Taking the proper steps before embarking on any long journey will save you from potential headaches down the line and ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips.
Pre-Trip Maintenance
At least two weeks before your planned departure, getting your commercial vehicle serviced is a good idea. Make sure all of the crucial components are checked and that fluids are topped off.
This includes oil, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and fuel injector cleaner. Brakes should also be inspected, with any worn parts replaced if necessary. This will ensure that your vehicle will get enough stopping power if needed.
It’s also important to check the battery terminals for corrosion and tighten them if needed. You should also have your tires rotated to extend their life and ensure that you have adequate traction for your trip.
Planning Ahead
When preparing for a long corporate trip with a commercial vehicle, it’s essential to plan ahead. This means doing research on routes so you can identify areas with tolls or heavy traffic that should be avoided when possible. You’ll also want to factor in the following:
Weather
When it comes to planning for a long corporate trip with a commercial vehicle, the weather should always be taken into consideration. Inclement weather, such as snow and ice, can create hazardous conditions on the road, particularly in areas where they are not used to dealing with such extreme conditions. It’s important to research the climate of your destination in advance and plan accordingly.
Truck Stops and Accommodations
When you’re taking a long corporate trip with a commercial vehicle, it’s important to plan rest stops. In addition to finding out where the nearest truck stops are, you should also research hotels or motels located along your route in case of an emergency or if you need to take a break.
Driving Hours
Make sure that everyone taking turns driving is aware of the hours they are allowed to go and stick to this schedule to avoid a potential fine or other penalties. Also, consider taking shifts to minimize fatigue.
Fuel Requirements
If you’re taking a long corporate trip with a commercial vehicle, it’s important to plan for the fuel requirements of your journey. This includes ensuring that you have a high-quality auxiliary diesel fuel tank installed and that it is full before beginning your journey. Additionally, make sure that you map out where refueling points will be so you can avoid running out of fuel.
Packing Essentials
Finally, when packing for the trip, there are certain essentials that must not be forgotten. An emergency kit should include things like:
- flares
- reflective triangles
- vests or jackets
- jumper cables
- an interior flashlight with extra batteries (in case of car trouble at night)
- first aid supplies such as bandages and gauze wraps
- bottled water
- tools such as screwdrivers and pliers
On top of that, it’s also advisable to pack some snacks and other items to make the trip more comfortable. There are non-perishable options that can provide sustenance for long trips, such as energy bars, nuts and seeds, dried fruit, crackers, and granola.
It’s also important to review any company policies related to travel and make sure that everyone at the party is aware of them. If possible, try to plan for a few hours of leisure time, as this can help reduce stress and fatigue.
Preparing commercial vehicles correctly before embarking on long corporate trips is essential — not only does it ensure safety, but it can help avoid costly repairs down the line due to preventable mistakes such as neglecting maintenance or leaving behind necessary items needed for an emergency situation. With some pre-planning and proper preparation, it’s easy to keep yourself and those around you safe while ensuring smooth sailing. By following these simple tips, you will feel confident knowing that everything is taken care of prior to taking off on your journey.
