Month: November 2021

Diesel Prices and Trucking

Sometimes it feels like diesel is expensive enough to bedazzle your truck and buy it a pearl necklace, and this is especially true at present. Diesel prices are on the rise. This can spell trouble for the transportation industry and those that depend on it, which includes nearly everyone in the United States). When diesel is more expensive, it means that overall transport costs increase. This can pose a challenge to smaller and individually owned companies as miles stack up and a few extra cents per gallon can end up costing a pretty penny. 

The Cost of Transportation

Transportation of any kind either commercial or civilian is expensive, from travel via rail, air or wheels, it is almost all powered by fossil fuels in some way or another. In wheeled transportation, gasoline and diesel reign supreme. Diesel and gas come from the same source, crude oil, but they are very different in terms of properties. Gas is a thin fuel that has low density but is very combustible, making it perfect for moving smaller vehicles. Diesel on the other hand is thick, dense, and packs a powerful punch which is perfect for fueling trucks and other heavier machinery. It may seem like robbery that diesel is more expensive than gas, but diesel is far more energy dense and therefore holds a higher value.

Besides the regular costs of purchasing vehicles and maintaining them, diesel is the main cost for trucking companies. It is a necessary and recurring expense that really adds up, especially when driving frequency is increased. If trucks are moving, there is the constant expense that comes with fuel. When diesel is more abundant and less expensive, it makes transportation less pricey which helps drivers and their companies save money. However, the economy functions best with balance and moderately priced fuel and transportation usually saves the most money for all parties. 

Diesel Prices

Diesel prices have been rising for sometime now. According to the EIA (U.S. Energy Information Administration), diesel prices in the US are up $1.28 per gallon from last year and are still rising. However, diesel prices are not expected to stay this high. Predictions from the EIA show that crude oil (the source of diesel) will likely become less expensive in 2022 due to the possible action by Washington to open the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to stabilize costs. The action the government will take remains to be seen, but likely as we roll into the new year, diesel prices will fall.

The fall in diesel prices will possibly be promoted by the colder months as winter is usually good for diesel,particularly colder winters. As the freezing temperatures reduce the likelihood of car travel, which is bad for gas, but good for diesel as it becomes more profitable than gasoline sales. If there is plenty of supply for the demand, diesel prices will remain affordable.

Final Thoughts

Diesel prices have been steadily rising, but there is an end in sight. Soon they will likely fall to a more affordable level. This is very exciting as it means that businesses will be able to breathe easier and reduce their expenses. As we enter the new year, pay attention to political actions and the weather to see how diesel prices play out. A great source for diesel news is the U.S. Energy Information Administration for the most up to date energy news!

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Winter seems to come too quickly. It’s a beautiful season filled with opportunities to see the family, eat great food, and celebrate the holiday season, but winter is also one of the most dangerous seasons as there are all the usual hazards coupled with ice and snow. As the days continue to get colder, it is crucial that you are prepared for the challenges of winter, in both your home and work life as driving in near-freezing temperatures and potentially inclement weather can be hazardous.

Driving in Severe Weather

Considering the problems that can occur while driving is the first step to building safe winter driving habits. The first thing to take into account when you are planning on taking your next route is to make sure you are familiar with the weather in all locations you will be driving through. Some places will be warmer or colder than others, and it is crucial that you know which locations will have hazardous conditions such as snowstorms, icy roads, or freezing rain. Being familiar with the challenges you will face on the journey and continuing to check the news (or a dependable weather app) will help you be prepared. 

The most important thing to know when driving in potentially icy locations is that going slowly can save lives. Speed is very highly valued in the trucking industry, and it can be very hard to choose to slow down especially when most drivers are in a time crunch. However, in hazardous conditions, the most responsible thing to do is slow down to a comfortable and safe speed, being sure to follow any emergency directives from road signs even if this results in a delayed arrival. 

In addition to this primary guideline, you should also complete pre-travel checks of your truck to ensure it is well-equipped and functioning correctly for the trip. Other important tips for safe driving in any season, but especially the winter, include following traffic at a safe distance, staying to the right, checking your brakes often and keeping them clear of winter slush overnight, avoiding distractions, and making sure your headlights are clear. While you are driving, do your best to avoid panicking, even when you face scary situations. Staying calm and using common sense will help you through even the worst problems. You can always pull off the road and call for assistance if you believe the conditions are too unsafe to continue.

Stay Safe, Stay Warm

Icy conditions wreak havoc on the plans of drivers (both commercial and civilian) all through the winter season. While there are hazards on the road all year round, from animals and natural dangers, winter takes the cake as the most dangerous season of the year because it combines all the risks with ice and snow. However, many incidents are easily avoided by using common sense and making sure to follow the guidelines of going slowly when necessary and taking steps to ensure you are staying alert, aware, and prepared for any challenge winter throws at you.