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03/19/2025Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Power-Only Trucking
Power-only trucking can be a great way to run a flexible and profitable business. Instead of hauling your own trailers, you provide the power-only truck to move pre-loaded trailers for shippers or freight brokers. This setup can help reduce overhead costs, increase load availability, and create steady work opportunities.
But power-only trucking challenges can impact your bottom line. Simple mistakes can lead to:
- Wasted fuel
- Expensive repairs
- Safety risks
- Lost revenue
Fortunately, these issues are easy to prevent with some precautionary care. In this post, the experts at our trailer transport company will break down the most common power-only trucking mistakes and how to keep them from cutting into your profits.
Failing to Match the Power Unit with the Freight Properly
One of the biggest freight transportation mistakes is not matching the right truck to the load. Every load has unique requirements based on its weight, size, and type of freight, and not all trucks are equipped to handle every trailer.
Using an underpowered truck for a heavy load can strain the engine, transmission, and suspension, leading to excessive wear and higher fuel consumption. An overloaded or unbalanced trailer can also affect handling and create safety hazards.
Before accepting a job, always verify the weight and dimensions of the trailer and compare them with your truck’s capabilities. Make sure your equipment meets the load’s power and weight distribution needs, and check that the brakes, tires, and suspension are up to the task.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance on the Power Unit
While neglecting maintenance may save time and money upfront, it often leads to bigger problems down the road. For one, a neglected power unit is more likely to break down unexpectedly. Engine trouble, brake failures, and tire blowouts don’t just put your truck out of commission- they can also create dangerous situations on the road.
In 2023, the U.S. saw 170,716 reported large truck accidents, resulting in 86,842 injuries and 5,078 deaths.
To keep your truck running smoothly and avoid costly, dangerous breakdowns, stick to a consistent maintenance schedule. At a minimum, your routine should include:
- Oil and filter changes to keep the engine lubricated and running efficiently.
- Tire inspections and pressure checks to prevent blowouts and improve fuel economy.
- Brake checks to ensure stopping power and avoid dangerous failures.
- Cooling system inspections to prevent overheating, especially in heavy-haul operations.
- Transmission and differential fluid checks to reduce wear and tear on vital components.
- Suspension and steering checks to ensure smooth handling and stability.
Modern trucks come with diagnostic tools that can help detect minor issues before they become major problems. Pay attention to warning lights, unusual noises, or performance changes. Address any concerns as soon as possible.
Underestimating Load Weight and Capacity Limits
Some drivers make the mistake of assuming the shipper has provided accurate weight information, only to find themselves dealing with overweight violations at weigh stations.
Improperly loaded or overweight trucks contribute to thousands of accidents each year, with rollovers being one of the most common and deadly consequences.
Always verify the weight of your load before hitting the road. If a weigh station isn’t nearby, consider using a portable axle scale or checking at a truck stop with a certified scale. Be mindful of both federal weight limits (80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight for most commercial trucks) and individual state regulations, which may vary.
In case you discover your truck is overweight, work with the shipper to adjust the load or obtain the necessary permits for overweight hauling.
Ignoring Proper Load Securement
In trailer shipping, you may not be the one loading the truck, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore load securement.
It’s easy to assume that a sealed trailer means everything inside is properly restrained, but cargo can shift during transit. If it’s not secured correctly, it can lead to damaged freight, dangerous road hazards, or a rollover.
Worse, if unsecured cargo causes an accident, you could be held legally liable.
Even if the shipper loads the trailer, you are still responsible for the load’s safety once you’re on the road. Hence, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection before departure. Always check that:
- The load is evenly distributed to prevent imbalance and trailer sway.
- Cargo is secured with straps, load bars, chains, or braces—not just packed tightly.
- Any hazardous materials are properly labeled and secured according to FMCSA and DOT regulations.
- Doors and locks are fully functional and secure to prevent cargo theft or accidental openings.
Not Understanding Regulatory Compliance Requirements
Trucking regulations are constantly evolving. Failing to stay compliant can lead to hefty fines, delayed shipments, or being placed out of service.
Some of the most common compliance mistakes include:
Missing Permits: Certain loads, such as oversized or overweight freight, require special permits.
Expired Registration or Insurance: Failing to renew these on time can put you out of service.
Weight Violations: Even if the shipper provides weight details, you are responsible for making sure the truck stays within legal limits.
Incomplete or Falsified Driver Logs: Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are strictly enforced. Inaccurate records can lead to fines or suspension.
Stay informed about the latest federal and state regulations to avoid compliance issues. Keep your permits, registration, and insurance up to date and readily accessible at all times. You can also use an electronic logging device (ELD) to accurately track your driving hours.
Failing to Communicate with Shippers and Receivers
Poor communication can quickly turn a routine job into a logistical nightmare. If you’re not in regular contact with shippers and receivers, you risk arriving at a closed facility, waiting for hours at an unprepared dock, or dealing with incorrect delivery instructions.
Always confirm pickup and delivery details before heading out. Double-check appointment times, addresses, and special handling requirements. In case of delays, keep all parties updated, so they can adjust their schedules accordingly.
Overlooking Safety Protocols
Beyond preventing accidents, trucking safety impacts your finances, reputation, and long-term job opportunities. If a company decides you’re too risky to work with, you may lose contracts.
Here are a few power-only trucking tips for safety.
Hooking Up Trailers Properly: Double-check that kingpins, fifth wheels, and air lines are secured before pulling out. A bad connection can lead to disastrous trailer separation.
Conducting Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections: Checking brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and keeps your truck roadworthy.
Navigating Tough Road Conditions: Reduce speed in bad weather, keep extra following distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers that can lead to jackknifing or rollovers.
Using Proper Safety Gear: Wear high-visibility vests, gloves, and steel-toe boots when working around your truck, especially in loading areas.
Being Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch for pedestrians, forklifts, and other hazards at docks and rest stops. Many accidents happen outside the truck.
Ignoring the Importance of Fuel Efficiency
With fuel being one of the biggest expenses in trucking, inefficient fuel use can take a serious toll on your profits. Wasting fuel through excessive idling, aggressive driving, and poor route planning can cost you more than necessary.
You can improve fuel efficiency by practicing smooth acceleration and braking, maintaining proper tire pressure, and planning the most direct routes with minimal traffic congestion. Consider using fuel cards and tracking consumption to cut expenses over time.
Not Keeping Accurate Records and Documentation
Many truckers don’t hold on to receipts for fuel, repairs, tolls, and other business-related expenses. Without proper documentation, it becomes difficult to reconcile finances, track profitability, or dispute incorrect charges.
Inconsistent maintenance records can also lead to problems if you’re ever involved in an accident or DOT inspection.
We recommend using a combination of digital logbooks, accounting apps, and cloud-based storage solutions to organize your paperwork. Track all receipts, fuel purchases, load documentation, and invoices so that you always have access to clear, accurate records.
Overlooking Insurance Needs
Truckers often choose the bare minimum insurance to save money. Unfortunately, inadequate coverage can leave you financially exposed in the event of an accident, cargo damage, or theft. A single uninsured or underinsured incident could lead to major out-of-pocket expenses that could set you back thousands or millions.
Insurance requirements vary depending on the brokers, shippers, and loads you haul. Some contracts may require higher liability limits or specific cargo insurance coverage, so it’s important to review your policy carefully to make sure you’re fully protected.
See that your coverage includes:
- Liability insurance
- Physical damage insurance
- Cargo insurance
- Non-trucking liability
Final Thoughts
That covers the most common freight transportation mistakes to watch out for. As you can tell, all these pitfalls are completely avoidable with a little planning and attention to detail. Taking time out for these simple measures can help you run a smoother, more profitable operation.
At Trailer Transit Inc., we provide dependable, efficient, and fully insured power-only trucking services customized to various shipping needs. With decades of experience and a nationwide network, we make sure freight moves safely, securely, and on schedule.
Contact us today to learn more about our services.
