It’s another day at work and you’re hauling a load down the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Traffic is moving at a steady pace, you’re listening to your favorite trucking podcast and basking in the warm sunlight that’s hitting your windshield. Suddenly, there’s flashing sign, “35 mph. Slow down. TOLL PLAZA AHEAD.” A maze of brake lights flickers in the distance. Expensive toll roads can really ruin the moment, can’t they?

You think to yourself, “Again?! I just paid a toll 15 minutes ago!”

Highway tolls are an expensive nuisance for any owner-operator or truck driver in the United States. But, like fuel, taxes and tires, highway tolls are another unavoidable cost of trucking. Toll charges average around $2500 per year for truckers. Different states have drastically different tolls which may make hauling a load even more expensive for you (or not).

It’s important to have all the toll road information available before you start driving, so you won’t face any unpleasant surprises at toll crossings. Be aware of the costly routes and calculate them into your cost per mile before you hit the road.

Which toll roads can truckers expect to hit their wallet the hardest?

The 11 Most Expensive Toll Roads in America by the Mile

1. Chesapeake Expressway (Virginia): $1.05
2. 17-Mile Drive (California): 54.4 cents
3. Ford Bend Parkway (Houston, Texas): 53.3 cents
4. Chicago Skyway: 51.2 cents
5. Delaware Turnpike: 36 cents
6. E-470 (Denver, Colorado): 33 cents
7. SR-73 (Orange County, California): 25 cents
8. Texas State Highway 130: 14.6 cents
9. Triangle Expressway (Raleigh, North Carolina): 14.5 cents
10. Florida State Road 417: 14.3 cents
11. New Jersey Turnpike: 11.4 cents

Can expensive toll roads be avoided? Not always. As a small business owner, you may have to bite the bullet and use the expensive highway routes. Sometimes there is no sensible alternative. Toll costs aren’t the only expense to consider. Forget about the short-term financial gain and think about your operating costs in the long run. When factoring in fuel for alternative routes, truck and tire deteriorations, delays and extra time, sticking with pricey tolls on highways and turnpikes may be the better option.

Your shipping routes may not align with the most expensive highway tolls listed above, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. While certain state highway tolls are more expensive per mile, other states hit you with more toll road mileage overall, making it even more expensive for truckers to haul and deliver loads. You’re now aware of expensive tolls in the United States, but what states have the most miles of toll roads? If you’re a long-haul trucker, this list will not surprise you.

The 11 States with the Most Toll Road Mileage

1. Florida: 657 miles
2. Oklahoma: 596.7 miles
3. New York: 574.6 miles
4. Pennsylvania: 508.2 miles
5. Ohio: 392.2 miles
6. New Jersey: 356 miles
7. Illinois: 282.1 miles
8. Kentucky: 248.5 miles
9. Kansas: 236.1 miles
10. Indiana: 156.8 miles
11. Texas: 145.6 miles

Truckers passing through these 11 states are out of luck. The bad luck doubles in states such as Florida and Texas, who made our list for the most toll mileage AND house the most expensive toll roads. With so much road wrapped up in tolls, it’s tough to find a reasonable workaround. Then again, do you really want to drive down 1-95 in Miami during rush hour when you could just stick to the turnpike?

Thankfully, not every state charges insane highway tolls. As a matter of fact, almost half of U.S. states don’t include any toll roads in their infrastructure.

States Without Toll Roads

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Washington
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

If toll-free driving sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Although these states don’t have any toll roads, roughly half still operate toll bridges, toll tunnels and toll ferries. You may never fully avoid paying highway tolls in America, but we hope our US highway toll overview map helps guide your route planning.

And if you’re not already enrolled in a toll program, Florida’s SunPass or East Coast’s E-Z Pass, you should get on that.

Expensive toll roads, vehicle maintenance, fuel and tire costs are all part of what makes being a trucker a pricey profession. Fortunately, freight factoring helps truckers get paid sooner – within 24 hours of delivery. What’s even better? Factoring companies provide fuel advances (up to 50% of the load amount) to help cover costs before delivery like fuel and road tolls. Factoring helps you get right back on the road, whether it be the most expensive or cheapest one out there.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has suspended the hours of service regulations for truckers in 26 states until the emergency situation in Texas and Louisiana has been declared over or until September 24, whichever comes first. The hours of service rule for truck drivers was first published in 2011 to ensure drivers of commercial or motor vehicles are taking breaks after 11-14 consecutive hours of driving.

Truckers who are hauling gasoline, propane, jet fuel, diesel and any other disaster relief loads can now provide these items to those in need without worrying about the typical regulations. The FMCSA stated the suspension applies to anyone hauling or providing direct assistance to the emergency efforts in Texas and Louisiana. Along with fuel, types of loads truckers are delivering to these areas consist of FEMA mobile homes, emergency equipment, supplies and personnel. Some of the states affected by the suspension include:

• Florida
• Ohio
• Indiana
• Illinois
• Georgia
• Pennsylvania
• New York
• Kentucky
• Tennessee

FMCSA has declared this regional emergency, “in anticipation of a regional shortage of fuel products” directly related to Hurricane Harvey.

Hurricane Harvey has disrupted about 20 to 25 percent of the country’s oil refineries and pipelines, causing gas prices to rise. While some of these pipelines have partially reopened, it could be months before operations return to normal at some of the refineries hit hardest by the hurricane. In addition to those affected by Harvey, the threat of Hurricane Irma could wipe out gasoline demand if it impacts Florida this weekend as projected.

Besides for the hours of regulation, Florida has also suspended registration requirements for commercial and motor vehicles as well as waived the size and weight requirements for any vehicle transporting emergency equipment, services and supplies.

It’s important for truckers to be patient when delivering loads to these areas. The delivery locations may be crowded and unorganized, but helping out those in need by providing them with crucial supplies during tough times is rewarding. With potential victims in mind, the authorities are trying to be as prepared as possible when getting supplies to these areas affect by disaster.

In addition to their safety, truck drivers should be concerned about health and fitness. While taking weeks or even months long trips, there are lifestyle changes that truckers need to follow and make to stay fit. It’s important for truck drivers to ask themselves “How do I stay healthy on the road?” For some, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging because they may not have the resources that people in other professions have, but that’s not to say that living a healthy life isn’t possible. Choosing to be healthy not only keeps you slim, but keeps your wallet fat. That’s right, staying healthy is a way truck drivers can save money.  Follow these 10 tips and tricks to keeping a healthy truck driver diet.

Tips for Truck Drivers to Stay Healthy

1. Eat breakfast everyday

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, whether you’re a trucker or not. According to a study done by Consumer Reports, people who eat breakfast regularly tend to have better diets overall, consuming more fruit, vegetables, milk and whole grains. Eating breakfast increases your blood sugar which gives you energy to start your day. It also prolongs your need to eat lunch and keeps you moving throughout the day, which is important for truck drivers taking long trips.

Some healthy and simple breakfast ideas for truck drivers include oatmeal, fresh fruit, protein bars, or a mixture of different breakfast foods. Some OTR drivers suggest eating a larger breakfast, and then smaller portions throughout the rest of the day to stay healthy, while avoiding hunger.

2. Snack on healthy foods to reduce meal portions

Snacking on healthy foods throughout the day will help you cut down on meal portions. Healthy snack options that truckers can take on the road with them include:

• Hummus and veggies
• Hard boiled eggs
• Dried fruits
• Mixed nuts
• Jerky
• String cheese
• Dark chocolate
• Yogurt

3. Eat more salad and leafy greens

Eating leafy greens two times per day will increase your focus on the road. Leafy greens are a good source of Vitamin K which prevents certain age related conditions. They also help lower cholesterol and preserve your vision, an important aspect for truckers.

4. Drink a lot of water

Not drinking enough water can affect a driver’s alertness on the road. Drivers should be drinking at least 64 ounces of water per day to make sure their bodies are functioning to their full potential.

5. Don’t consume more than 2 cups of coffee per day

Coffee may help truckers stay awake, but consuming too much caffeine isn’t good for anyone. Following all of these other steps while getting an adequate amount of sleep should reduce the need for a lot of coffee. However, two cups of coffee per day is acceptable for drivers to take in.

6. Cut pop out of your diet

Soda dehydrates the body and is bad for your teeth. There are so many healthier beverage options including water, juice and tea. Not only is water the best option for hauling loads because it keep you hydrated, water keeps you feeling full longer. If you feel full while you’re driving, you won’t need to stop for food as frequently, saving you time.

7. Get enough sleep

Truck drivers should sleep for at least 7 hours per day in a dark and quiet place. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1 in 5 deaths on the roadway are caused by drivers who fell asleep while driving. Sleep is the key to health and safety, especially if you’re working long hours as a truck driver.

8. Take time to rest every two hours

To avoid restlessness while driving, take a short break every two hours. Pull to a rest stop and grab a snack or just stretch your legs and do some simple exercises. Small breaks every two hours can revamp your drive and give you more energy. You can take a few minutes to just touch your toes, roll out your neck or even do some jumping jacks to get your blood flow circulating properly.

9. Avoid fast food

Truck drivers are often temped with fast food because of its convenience. Try to avoid this unhealthy option at all costs. If you must go through a drive-thru, make a healthier food choice such as a salad or simply avoid the salty condiments and sides.

10. Exercise

Drivers should exercise at least three times per week to avoid obesity. 52 percent of drivers have an issue with obesity which is more than double the 21 percent of the general population. There are tons of workouts that truck drivers can participate in while on the road. While stopping for rest, drivers can take a short, 15-minute jog or fast pace walk. These exercises do not require any equipment and can be done anywhere. If you need some direction, there are tons of workout routines on YouTube. Some more exercises drivers can do include:

• 5 minute sprints
• 4 sets of 10 squats
• 4 sets of 10 heel rises
• 2 sets of 12 pushups
• 4 sets of 15 crunches
• 2 planks for 30 seconds each
• 4 sets of 12 abs—touch your feet with your chest
• 15-minute walk to cooldown

No matter how important a load, truck drivers shouldn’t neglect their health and fitness. Following these tips and health guidelines should be an easy way for truckers to contribute to healthy living.

Driving an 18-wheeler across the country can be exceptionally difficult during the winter months. Major snow and ice storms can be very dangerous for truck drivers to venture into to deliver their loads from place to place. It’s important for truckers to alter their driving to be extra cautious during dangerous conditions. Good maneuverability skills can save your life when sliding down an icy hill or off of the road.

There are many risks involved when driving in bad weather and knowing conditions are unsafe makes all drivers on edge and more cautious. Some of these risks include reduced visibility, icy roads, snow drifts, more ‘stop time’ and the unpredictability of other drivers. Truckers must be smart and know when they can push through to keep driving or when the conditions are too bad and they must take a break. Drivers who choose to be on the road during bad weather are not only putting their own lives in danger but other drivers as well.

Separate yourself from the rest of the pack by considering yourself a professional. Professionals exercise preventative safety skills to protect themselves and others at all times while on the road.  Refresh your memory of these 10 basic safety tips to be extra safe this winter.

10 Winter Safety Reminders for Truckers

Be prepared

Always be prepared for winter weather and any challenges that it may bring. Make sure to have an emergency kit in case you get stuck or stranded in freezing temperatures. Blankets, extra warm clothing and coats, a flashlight, healthy and energizing food, water, windshield washer fluid, ice scraper, jumper cables, traction mats and at least a half a tank of gas at all times. If you do happen to get stranded, it’s always best to stay in your truck until help arrives. Always have a plan on what to do if you run into this type of problem while driving through a winter storm.

Keep a safe distance behind other drivers

It’s important not to drive too close behind other drivers all the time, but especially in winter weather conditions. If the person in front of you comes to a fast stop, you may rear end them if you are following too closely behind. It’s often difficult to stop quickly when driving on snow and ice (slippery conditions), but keeping a safe distance in between you and other drivers helps to prevent accidents in snowy weather.

Make sure your trailer lights are visible

To ensure that other drivers are not tailgating you, make sure your trailer lights are not covered with snow or ice, decreasing visibility of you to other drivers. Always check your taillights before leaving a rest stop and keep tools handy for when you may have to dust them off. Not only is it helpful for other drivers to see your back lights but it’s the law as well. You can get pulled over and sighted if your rear lights are not visible.

Beware of ice on bridges

Bridges always ice faster than the normal roadways because the freezing air surrounds the surface from above and below. Bridges have no way to trap heat so ice forms extremely fast. Roads only loose heat from the top surface and will not ice as fast as open bridges. Drivers should be extra cautious when crossing a bridge in winter weather conditions. Even if it’s a sunny day and the roadways just look wet, be cautious of black ice at all times.

Drive slower than usual

Altering your normal driving speed during winter conditions is always a good idea. Driving at a slower speed will give you more time to react if something occurs. For example, if you were to start sliding or hit a snow drift, you’ll be able to maneuver your truck better the slower you are going.

Obey all road rules

Road rules and speed limits are important at all times, especially when driving conditions become more dangers. Speed limits are set because those rates were tested and determined safe for drivers. Other road rules such as using your blinkers and passing are important in blizzard conditions as well.

Don’t stop on the shoulder of the road

Especially when visibility is low, never stop on the shoulder of the highway. Other drivers cannot see you or may mistake you for a moving vehicle and can easily run into you. It’s best during the winter months to pull into a designated rest stop or get off at an exit if possible to keep you and other drivers safe.

Don’t be afraid to wait it out

If you’re debating getting off the road, you probably should. Driving in a snow storm can make visibility extremely low and you don’t want to put yourself or other drivers in danger. Stopping for a few hours to wait out the storm is worth it. Be sure to listen to weather reports and warnings and use your best judgement.

Also, if you decide to stop, make sure your vehicle is equip with anything you might need to wait it out.

Do not use the jake brake on icy roads

You probably learned this back in the day, but it’s always good to have a reminder of safe truck driving practices. The jake brake is a good tool to use to slow down in normal conditions, but not on snow or ice covered roadways. When your trailer is not straight on the road, too much breaking can cause it to spin out of control.

Make other drivers aware of your presence

You can be cautious at all times but an accident can happen in the blink of an eye from another driver’s actions. Radioing to other truckers that you are going to pass them in snowy conditions is a common courtesy that others will appreciate. If visibility is bad you may want to drive with your hazard lights on so other drivers can better see you.

Professional truckers are always prepared for winter weather conditions, but use these 10 tips as a reminder of how important it is for truck drivers to plan ahead for the winter months.

If you are in need of financing for your trucking receivables, contact Easy Freight Factoring for a free quote today. We help factor freight receivables for trucking companies of all sizes. Give us a call at 1-866-780-0916.