When you search for information on fuel taxes by state, the early results could seem intimidating. You might find busy, complex charts with rows and columns of small text that’s difficult to look at. Then, once you find the information you’re looking for, you have to figure out how to use it (e.g., fuel planning, IFTA, etc.).

So, how can you quickly and easily find the state fuel tax info you need and use it to make the best financial decision for your company? Find out below.

The DOT physical is a comprehensive health examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Required as a compliance measure, DOT physicals ensure that commercial drivers are healthy and fit to drive. If you’ve failed your DOT physical, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. A failed test doesn’t mean it’s the end of the line for your driving career. Sometimes changing your DOT physical status from fail to pass is as simple as getting corrective lenses.

Here are some tips for moving forward after a failed DOT physical:

Cash flow can make or break a trucking company’s operations. Having a good cash flow means steadily bringing money in to be able to purchase fuel for the next load, pay your drivers on time and continue to pick up new business. Part of managing your cash flow is proper invoicing and collections. Your customers should be paying your invoices in full and on time, every time. If they’re not, it may be beneficial to take a look at your invoicing and collections process.

In the simplest terms, you need to report to an approved medical professional, pass a physical exam and obtain your clearance under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The following tips may help you better prepare for the physical.

You might be wondering if all commercial motor vehicles need to undergo an annual Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection. If your commercial motor vehicle (CMV) weighs over 10,000 pounds, the answer is yes: it will need to be inspected by the DOT.  If your vehicle needs to have an annual inspection, it’s wise to be prepared.

What is a DOT Safety Rating?

A safety rating is a publicly accessible and up-to-date record of a driver or trucking company’s safe driving and conduct. It is evaluated by the FMCSA, operating under the DOT.

Trucking companies and drivers will receive one of three potential safety ratings: Satisfactory, Conditional or Unsatisfactory.

Are you an owner-operator looking to build new efficiencies or grow your business? Or maybe a broker who needs to upgrade legacy systems to improve dispatch and keep up with today’s fast-paced, tech-enabled environment? Either way, if you’re in the trucking industry, you’ve probably at least heard about trucking dispatch software. Trucking dispatch software is technology that eases the stress and workflow for your dispatch team. Most programs will include a live dispatch board, shipment tracking with integrated GPS and scheduling capabilities.

Even the most diligent business owner can run into a situation where they need capital to address an issue or time-sensitive opportunity. A low credit score can make finding a working capital loan a challenge. Here are some options to consider.  

More Time

Before taking on a high-interest working capital loan,  consider some immediate short-term, cost-saving options. These may allow you to free up capital now so that you can survive the short-term needs.