Minimize Your Time at the Pumps
Most Carriers today have designated fuel stops setup for each load they dispatch. When to stop and fuel may make the difference of the time spent at the pumps. Many Carriers and Owner Operators utilize freight lanes, so they know in advance which direction they will be traveling. Finding the right time to fuel can be tricky, and it could depend on the location of your intended fuel stop.
If you are running the same freight lanes on a regular basis, you may already know when and where you will be topping off the tanks. Adjusting those times could mean a faster fuel time, and quicker access to the amenities your fuel stop has to offer.
Each truckstop has a peak time, and a slow time. Often we see fuel stops that are extremely busy in the early morning, early afternoon, and late evenings. By visiting your favorite stops between these times, you can greatly maximize your time, and get back on the road. When you are finished fueling, you should pull forward, or even park in the lot if you know you may take a few extra minutes inside. This allows for the next person to fuel, and be on their way as well. However, if the person in front of you has not finished their business, you should take a few minutes to complete your log book, take out the trash, etc, and wait for that driver to pull away from the holding area, then pull forward. Many times you will meet the driver in front of you coming out, as you are going inside.
More often than not you may notice that the checkout lines are long, and the cashiers are relatively new or overwhelmed. Helping the checkout clerk in any way you can will reduce time waiting, and produce a better flow of customers. There is no reason to be rude to the people behind the counter, as they, like you, have a job to do. Blowing a gasket on the cashier is not productive, and may cause a negative impact on you if you carry it with you when you leave. Leaving a fuel stop upset will only make the remainder of your day seem bleak and depressing. Being courteous will follow you throughout the rest of the day, and you will feel better about yourself knowing that you have done the right thing. Having someone say “Have a nice day” and meaning it makes a big difference.
By working together we can accomplish more, and do it in less time. Helping your fellow driver will leave you with a sense of pride and accomplishment. The brotherhood of Truckers has not yet entirely vanished, and small things can give new life to an old profession. Stopping to get fuel does not have to be a job. With a little courtesy and some civility, you can make the most of it, and still have a good day ahead of you.
Tags: Fueling Fuel
