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What if navigation routes me to the wrong side of a facility?
Stop at a safe place and contact the facility for its truck entrance. Do not attempt an unsuitable driveway or unauthorized turnaround.
Should I keep an offline route backup?
Yes. Carry accessible directions and key contacts for areas with poor service. Offline information still needs comparison with current signs and restrictions.
How do I estimate an honest arrival time?
Use actual progress, remaining legal hours, expected stops, traffic, and customer conditions. Update dispatch when circumstances change rather than preserving an unrealistic original estimate.
What should I check before a ferry crossing?
Confirm truck dimensions, hazardous-material restrictions, reservations, fares, schedule, and staging instructions. Allow time for queues and follow crew directions.
How do I plan fuel stops without unnecessary detours?
Compare authorized locations against the route, range, parking, and duty time. Do not rely on arriving with nearly empty tanks.
What is deadhead routing?
It plans movement without a revenue load. The same safety, route, and hours requirements still apply; confirm mileage pay and authorized destination.
How do I handle a detour not shown on my GPS?
Follow official truck-compatible detours and verify restrictions. Stop safely for clarification if the signed route appears unsuitable.
What if a customer’s directions conflict with posted signs?
Follow lawful restrictions and stop safely to clarify. A customer’s verbal direction does not override height, weight, or prohibited-route signs.
How do toll roads affect route planning?
Consider authorized routes, payment methods, axle classification, reimbursement, and permit requirements. Obtain carrier approval for material route changes.
What should I do before entering a mountain route?
Review grades, restrictions, weather, stopping opportunities, and escape ramps. Ensure the vehicle and your training are appropriate for the route.