How Truckers Can Tackle Soaring Gas Prices
It’s a no-brainer that saving money is just as beneficial as making it. As gas prices continue to soar, this couldn’t be more accurate. While people in the trucking industry may not have any say-so in gas prices, there are ways to manage fuel use that can help you save gas on the road. So, let’s focus on what you can control!
Given the weight of semi-trucks and the fact they generally get an average of 6.5 miles per gallon, fuel-efficiency is not really a point to focus on. However, there are other ways trucking companies can reduce fuel costs. Here are 10 tips to help with truck-driving fuel optimization.
#1 Practice Methods of Least Resistance
What’s the best way to save money on gas? Use less of it. One of the easiest and most obvious fuel-saving methods is using the “least resistance” method of routing and driving. For starters, avoid the extremes, such as excessive braking or gas pedal pumping.
When drivers practice habits of “least resistance” gas savings can add up. It can also reduce wear-and-tear on crucial parts, like brake pads, thus helping you keep your truck out of the shop and on the road where it helps you bring in more profits.
#2 Drive in a Higher Gear
Maintaining speed in a higher gear helps save fuel. Rather than repeatedly braking and accelerating, changing speed gradually equates to fewer gear shift changes. While you may have been driving for decades now, every truck is different. Spending some time getting to know a rig before you head out for a long trip will help you make the most of its gearing.
#3 Use Truck Momentum to Your Advantage
The weight of heavy vehicles quickly builds momentum. By gradually increasing speed prior to climbing a hill, less acceleration is needed to reach the top. Once you’re at the top, the weight of the truck naturally creates acceleration without the need for much, if any, gas.
Additionally, when approaching exits or stopping points, begin slowing down in advance. Braking reduces fuel efficiency and wastes the benefits of momentum, especially if you brake hard. Allowing the weight of your truck to naturally decelerate you as you prepare to exit a highway or come to a stop is a surefire way to save gas, and ultimately drive safer.
#4 Reduce Idling Time
Many truckers are in the habit of leaving their trucks idling, whether stopping for a quick break or stuck in traffic. However, long periods of idling will burn fuel. In fact, a single hour of idling will easily burn a gallon of gas in your semi. At today’s rates, that could equate to $4 to $8 or more.
If you’re in the habit of letting your truck idle for long periods of time, especially during lunch or long breaks, consider finding an alternative. Your comfort is definitely a priority, but with current gas prices, it’s probably more efficient to get a personal A/C or heater, which can plug into a rechargeable battery pack for plug-and-go comfort.
#5 Use Cruise Control
Driving slower and using cruise control on long stretches helps you maintain a more consistent speed. Remember: Hard braking and quick acceleration are the enemy to fuel efficiency! Cruise control is safer, easier, and saves money.
According to Energy Saver statistics, based on $3.15 per gallon of gas “for every 5 mph above 50 mph, it’s like paying an additional $0.22 per gallon.” With gasoline/diesel prices at an all-time high, that cost is even more substantial.
#6 Improve the Aerodynamics of Your Truck and Cargo
By making your truck as aerodynamic as possible, you can improve efficiency as you travel, especially at high speeds. This includes making sure truck cargo is evenly distributed and as low as possible, as well as re-adjusting roof-mounted air deflectors so air flows past the highest point.
Additionally, there are after-market modifications that can further improve aerodynamics including side extenders, roof and tank fairings, skirting, wheel covers and more. If you own your own truck, looking into these modifications can prove well worth the investment in the long haul.
#7 Use a Pricing App
The most conveniently located gas stations also tend to have the highest rates. Using an app that helps you find stations nearby with the lowest prices can save you big in the long run. Likewise, proper route planning can help you check for weather conditions, road construction, and peak congestion times in busy areas.
While it’s impossible to plan for every scenario, taking a few moments to plan your route before hitting the road not only helps prevent wasted time and gas, it can also help steer you clear of potentially stressful or dangerous situations.
#8 Schedule Routine Maintenance
Keeping your truck well-maintained can improve mileage and prevent unexpected downtime. Preventative maintenance like oil changes, engine lubrication, and replacement of oil, air, and fuel filters save fuel, keep equipment in tip-top shape, and alert you to potential problems. Likewise, proper alignment and tire rotations/repair prevent unnecessary wear and tear, improve handling, and increase fuel economy.
Get More Tips from the Experts
While it’s impossible to predict the future of gas prices, the tips we’ve shared can prove beneficial now and in five years. There’s no denying the recent rise in prices has a negative impact in profits and is affecting all Americans in some way. But the trucking industry as a whole is always facing challenges of some kind, as we always push through and persevere. Stay safe out there!
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