Category: trucking

Trucking 101: Everything You Need to Know About ExpressTruckTax

You might already know that ExpressTruckTax is here for your Form 2290 filing needs.

In fact, we’re the industry-leading e-file provider for IRS 2290.

But what else do you know? Find out other ways we can help you with truck taxes to take the paperwork out of trucking.

Truck Taxes

IRS Form 2290

Did you use ExpressTruckTax to file Form 2290 this year? If so, thanks for choosing us!

Our number 1 referral method is word of mouth, so be sure to tell your friends about your experience.

If you didn’t file with ExpressTruckTax, or haven’t heard of us before, here’s the rundown:

1.  ExpressTruckTax is an IRS-authorized e-file provider.

That means our system is authorized by the IRS to participate in the IRS e-file program. Not only are we backed by the IRS, but we run on cloud-based software, keeping your sensitive information safe and secure.

2.  ExpressTruckTax takes the paperwork out of filing.

No, seriously. You never need to touch a piece of paper to file IRS 2290, and you definitely don’t have to stand in those ridiculous lines at the IRS. Honestly, I hope no one is still doing that.

3.  ExpressTruckTax is here for you.

The ExpressTruckTax support team is a 100% US-based, live support team, meaning you’ll always get a real human on the phone who knows what they’re talking about.

Best of all, you’ll get your IRS 2290 stamped Schedule 1 just minutes after filing Form 2290.

IFTA Fuel Tax

So, maybe you knew all that, but did you know we can help with IFTA filing too?

Simply log in to your ExpressTruckTax account, or create one for free. Then, select the “IFTA” tab at the top of the home page.

IFTA filing has never been easier. It’s all the ease of Form 2290, but with IFTA reporting!

Don’t forget, your 3rd quarter IFTA deadline is October 31, 2019. File your IFTA fuel tax by Halloween to avoid penalties and interest.

Truck Drivers Are Our Priority

Now you know a little bit about how ExpressTruckTax can help you, especially with IRS Form 2290 and IFTA fuel tax.

We’re here for you. Our top-notch customer support team is available to help, whether you need to make a correction on your Form 2290, have questions about IFTA filing, or need clarity on truck taxes and deadlines.

We’re here to take some of the hassle and paperwork out of being a truck driver, but most importantly, we’re here for you.

Check out our other blogs to find more resources to help you succeed in the trucking industry.
Happy trucking!

GATS 2019 Trending Topics: AI in the World of Trucking

It’s no secret that AI is continuing to grow in today’s world.

With the rise of artificial intelligence comes the confusion and uncertainty that accompanies any unknown territory.

Because of that, this topic was a big focus for truck drivers at the Great American Trucking Show (GATS) this year.

If you couldn’t make GATS 2019, here’s what you missed regarding artificial intelligence in the world of trucking.

Artificial Intelligence and Trucking

GATS 2019

AI continues to be a big topic at GATS, with updates on how trucking technology will continue to affect American truck drivers.

Most of the fear surrounding AI comes with self-driving trucks, but those are still in their infancy.

More immediately, AI is making a positive impact on the trucking industry by increasing efficiency on the back end.

AI is also a great tool for decreasing error. Matt Bernstein, CEO of HubTran, points out, “Whenever you have manual processes, no matter how many checkers there are, there will be errors.”

Artificial intelligence plays a big role in reducing those errors for truck drivers.

GATS 2019 hosted a variety of different educational sessions addressing artificial intelligence, including a session titled “The Driver’s Role with Driverless Trucks”, featuring Pronto and Starsky Robotics.

Pronto brings to market safety systems designed for commercial trucking fleets.

Their Copilot products offer advanced adaptive cruise control, electronic steering and collision mitigation, and other innovative safety measures.

Starsky Robotics also works on autonomous strategies and has created technology that will handle the highway miles for commercial vehicles.

Trucking Technology

A report by MarketsandMarkets estimates that the AI market for transportation is projected to grow nearly 18% from 2017 – 2030.

With the rise of AI comes an increase in value for human skills.

GATS 2019 also focused on adding increased value and attention to things that are uniquely human.

As more jobs or activities become automated, people are freed from routine and predictable tasks.

Instead, they are challenged to manage new technologies and exercise greater critical thinking skills on a regular basis.

The Great American Truck Show hosted educational sessions focusing on the importance of these skills as well.

Growing AI in the trucking industry means continuing to grow human skills.
These skills include communication, empathy, trust, and judgment.

Staying Ahead With Your Trucking Business

Trucking technology can be a huge advantage if we let it.

Whether you’re a leased operator, owner-operator, or fleet manager, make the decision to use trucking technology to your advantage with a business management software.

TruckLogics is a trucking management software with features for managing dispatches, tracking income & expenses, scheduling maintenance, sending invoices, and so much more.

Just like ExpressTruckTax takes the paperwork out of filing, our sister product TruckLogics is aimed at taking the paperwork out of trucking.

Trucking technology is a huge asset for saving time and money. Get started with a free 15-day trial today!

The Best Trucker Tips For Shifting Seasons

With hurricane season in full effect, it’s a crazy time to be on the roads.

The weather is shifting, so we put together some truck driver tips and a trucker survival kit to keep you safe.

Trucking industry safety has been a huge focus recently, as trucking is listed one of the most hazardous jobs.

Safety regulations for truck drivers are enforced, but many times, driving conditions or other drivers are the main issue.

Stay alert on the road.

Take note of these trucker tips and remain focused in any weather conditions. Remember, your life is more important than your job.

If you ever feel that you do not have complete control over your vehicle, pull off the road.

Trucker Safety in Every Season

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season always comes with tons of unknowns. Storms are hard to track, and weather reporters never seem to have a definite idea of what will happen.

Because of that, it’s important for truck drivers to carry emergency items with them to use in the event of a sudden storm.

Your truck driver survival kit should include water, nonperishable food, extra clothes, a reflective vest, hat, waterproof gloves, waterproof jacket, extra socks, and boots. Include an electric blanket if you have one.

Remember, if your nonperishable food includes canned food, bring a can opener.
Also, pack a utility knife, flashlight, batteries, portable charger, hand-crank radio, matches/lighter, first aid kit, portable heater, and extra fuel in your truck driver survival kit.

Basic Driving Safety Tips

Always pay attention to weather forecasts. Know what to expect before you get on the road.

If you do end up caught in a pop-up storm or tornado warning, slow down, turn your flashers on, and find shelter as soon as you can.

If you must pull off on the side of the road, be sure to pull far off, especially if visibility is low.

Never stop under a bridge or overpass, as they turn into wind tunnels during a storm and lots of debris will pass through them.

Trucker Safety

Above all else, your personal safety is most important. Be aware that safety regulations for truck drivers might not always be enough.

Exercise personal judgment. If you must abandon your truck or personal goods, do so.

As the seasons change, hurricanes, storms, snow, and more arrive, and driving safety is compromised. Be sure that your truck is in perfect working condition at all times.

Keep up with truck maintenance to stay compliant with safety regulations for truck drivers.

Remember, you can do this with TruckLogics, a trucking management solution for all of your trucking needs. Take the paperwork out of trucking and stay safe on the road. Take advantage of your free 15-day TruckLogics trial.

Our American Truckers: A Look at the Life of a Dedicated Driver

It’s no understatement to say that truck drivers keep America running smoothly.

American Trucking Associations reports that nearly 71% of all freight tonnage in the US is moved by trucks.

Without the trucking industry, consumers wouldn’t receive the goods they need each day.

We rely on truckers for almost every aspect of our lives.

At ExpressTruckTax, we understand the hard work that is required to be a member of the trucking industry.

We also understand that this hard work is often underappreciated.

To rectify that, we’ve decided to share truck driver stories with the world.

An Inside Look at the Trucking Industry

Our American Truckers: A Series

Here at ExpressTruckTax, we know that America’s truckers have one of the country’s hardest and most important jobs.

That’s why we work every day to make life simpler for you.

We take the truck tax paperwork off your plate so that you can focus on what you do best: moving America forward.

We’ve also started a YouTube series to introduce the general public to the trucker lifestyle and help them understand the hard work of American truckers.




Behind the Scenes

The first episode of our American Truckers series features Billy Cagle, a Wadesboro, NC truck driver for the entertainment industry.

Cagle gave us a tour of his home and office, where he organizes the trucking paperwork that he gives to his accountant. He opened up about his life and gave us a glimpse into the career he’s known for so long.

Demetri, our Digital Marketing Specialist, says, “He was so welcoming… offered us water first thing upon arrival. We got to meet his 2 dogs, 2 parrots, 2 horses, and of course, 2 trucks.”

Cagle’s truck driver story started when he was young. “My father taught me how,” he remembers.

Before he could drive or operate trucks on the road, his father had him complete other work on trucks and trailers, teaching him basic skills. After he learned the industry, he began driving.

“Being on the road the whole time has been my life for 43 years,” Cagle says.

As a truck driver for the entertainment segment of the trucking industry, he could be on the road anywhere from 2 weeks to 4 months, depending on what he’s doing.

Most of his work involves hauling equipment for music tours. This often allows him to meet cool people and get involved in awesome events.

Cagle is married to his wife Anne. He spoke a bit about how being married fits into the trucking industry’s demands.

“My wife and I… we’ve been married, in November, it’ll be 36 years,” he says. “She comes from a trucking family too, which is probably the only reason it works… or me being gone is the only reason it works I don’t know,” he laughs. “Direct deposit honey!”

The Diverse Trucking Industry

Our American truckers form a huge community of diverse truck drivers with a wide range of unique truck driver stories.

Want to share yours?

Call us at 704.234.6005 and let us know that you’re interested in filming for our American Truckers series.

While you’re here, have you filed IRS Form 2290 yet?

The 2290 deadline is September 3rd, 2019, so don’t wait! File Form 2290 now with ExpressTruckTax to save time and money.

Take advantage of our instant error check, free mobile app, bulk upload feature, and more!

Plus, you’ll receive your stamped 2290 Schedule 1 just minutes after filing.

50 Years of Dave Nemo: The Best In Trucking Radio

Dave Nemo, trucking radio show host, and trucking industry legend is celebrating 50 years in trucking radio.

We decided to recognize this huge feat by sitting down with the man himself to talk about becoming an industry leader and to pass along the invaluable knowledge he has to offer.

Watch the full interview here:

50 Years of Dave Nemo: The Best In Trucking Radio

The Beginnings of Trucking Radio

Like everyone in the trucking industry, Dave Nemo has a story.

His starts at just 2 years old, listening to “The National Barn Radio Show” with his family every Saturday night.

Glued to the soundtrack, the show drew him to music, and radio soon followed. In the ’70s, Dave says, “Radio was a vehicle for music to be heard”.

In college, he was the campus radio station’s music director. Then, trucking worked its way into the equation unexpectedly.

After serving in the Vietnam War, he returned to the radio station where he worked after college, and discovered a need.

Truck drivers were multiplying, and yet, nothing was catered to them. The trucking industry was so unknown that insight for truckers on the road was non-existent. Instead, trucking radio was simply an attempt to keep truckers awake and alive.

Dave Nemo decided to expand on that.

Understanding the Trucking Industry

Beginning in a virtually untapped industry was a learning experience for Dave Nemo.

Gradually, he began to understand the population he was serving.

He recalls having an unexpected connection with drivers because so many were just getting back from war or on their way out.

Dave says, “It’s been an incredible experience getting to meet a population of the country that not a lot of people know about, and yet truck drivers and their families are everywhere. I think 1 out of 6 people in the country is involved in transportation.”

Those who work in the trucking industry form a community. There are no stereotypical truck drivers, but there is a trucking lifestyle. Those who drive are part of a unique family, moving our country forward with great pride and a sense of commitment.

As Dave says, “Trucking is an uncelebrated section of our population – I always compare teachers and truckers… the vital nature of what they do and the little recognition they get for it.”

Advice To Those in The Trucking Industry

50 years in trucking radio is a long time, and Dave Nemo has invaluable wisdom from it.

His advice for people moving forward in the industry or just starting out is to talk to as many people as possible. There are more options in the trucking industry today than ever before. Take time to find your niche.

For more trucking tips, listen to Dave Nemo’s show every morning, 7-11 AM EST on Sirius XM and Road Dog Trucking Radio.

Remember, in both radio and taxes, you have allies in the trucking industry.

Don’t forget, the IRS 2290 deadline is only a month away! Turn to ExpressTruckTax to file Form 2290 fast.

Use ExpressTruckTax filing to meet the August 31st deadline to avoid IRS penalties. Plus, when you file online, you’ll receive your Schedule 1 in minutes.

As the leading provider in the trucking industry, we understand that you have more important things to do than taxes.

That’s why we’re committed to making life easier for you.

Sign up for free today!

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4th

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4thWith a growing economy and rising consumer confidence, you can expect more than a few four-wheelers on the road this holiday weekend. This Independence Day the AAA has estimated 41.9 million travelers until Sunday, July 8th. This number is up 0.7 percent from last year’s estimate and the highest number since 2007 since before the great recession. At ExpressTruckTax we want you to always be prepared. Here is what you need to know about traffic July 4th.

The AAA says that the worst congestion can be expected around metropolitan areas as holiday travels are combined with regular commuters during the weekdays.

“This Independence Day will be one for the record books, as more Americans take to the nation’s roads, skies, rails and waterways than ever before,” Bill Sutherland, senior vice president of AAA Travel and Publishing, said in a statement from the company. “Confident consumers with additional disposable income will look to spend on travel this holiday, building on an already busy summer travel season.”

What You Need to Know About Traffic July 4thAt ExpressTruckTax we hope you will spend this Independence Day with your family and friends, however, if you find yourself out on the open road, we want to share our sincere appreciation. It is through the untiring resolve of those like yourself in the trucking community that we are able to celebrate. Your rigs brought us the fireworks, hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, charcoal, and grill that we all get to enjoy.

From the staff at ExpressTruckTax, we thank you for your dedication and determination in serving millions of Americans across the nation. ExpressTruckTax appreciates your continued efforts to keeping America moving. Happy Independence Day!

How To Cruise Your Way Through Tax Day 2019

Truck Driver Cruising Through Tax Day 2018

Tax Day 2019 is almost here! April 15th is the 2018 income tax filing deadline and, we want to make sure you have everything you need to avoid IRS penalties and interest.

Need more time to file? We have the solution to your last-minute tax filing crisis… 2019 tax extension Form 4868.

Here is the secret to cruising your way through tax day 2019.

How To Cruise Your Way Through Tax Day 2019

Whether you are still gathering your tax information or totally forgot today was Tax Day 2019, the IRS will automatically grant you an automatic six-month extension to file with Income Tax Extension Form 4868.

Tax Extension Deadline 2019

File tax extension 2019 Form 4868 for any of the following forms:

Form 1040, Form 1040A, Form 1040-EZ, Form 1040NR, Form 1040NR-EZ, Form 1040-PR or 1040-SS.

Once your income tax extension is approved by the IRS, you will have until October 15th, 2019 to file your income tax return penalty-free. Sa-weet!

Reasons To File A Tax Extension

Last-minute tax filing is never a good thing. The top three reasons to file a tax extension include:

1) You Will Make Mistakes
2) Refunds & Credits Will Be Missed
3) Tax Extensions Are So Easy

If you fail to file your income tax return you will face IRS penalties and will find Uncle Sam knocking on your truck door first thing in the morning 🤷🏽.

Do yourself a favor and file for an income tax extension today with our sister product, ExpressExtension.

How To Apply For Tax Extension Form

Filing Income Tax Extension Form 4868 with ExpressExtension literally takes minutes and will extend your 2019 tax deadline date.

Create your free ExpressExtension account and click “Create Personal Tax Extension” from your account Dashboard. If you owe taxes, you will need to estimate your total income tax payment for the filing year. You can use your prior year tax situation as a reference, but give the most accurate approximation as possible.

When you have everything ready, our step-by-step instructions will help you file your tax extension online in minutes, and we will do the rest, so you cruise your way through Tax Day 2019!

The Ultimate Trucker Gifts

ExpressTruckTax wishes truck drivers a merry Christmas

Y’all Christmas is only a few days away, so you better finish up your shopping before you run out of time. Make a list, and check it twice, then remember to get the trucker in your life something meaningful even if they’ve been naughty or nice.

December is one of the busiest times a year for truckers as they drive all over the nation delivering presents to make Christmas possible! The driver in your life deserves a relaxing break to celebrate the holidays with you and their loved ones, so get them something great. Check out our list of the perfect trucking gifts for both the male and lady truckers.

The Best Trucking Gifts

1. Hands-Free Devices

We know you want to check up on the trucker in your life when they are on the road, but holding phones and other devices can be really distracting. Consider getting them a wireless headset so they can talk to you, hands-free. You could also get them a dash mount for their phone and wireless headphones.

2. Warm Gear

Winter is here and many states have experienced snow. Even Atlanta got a good dump! Your trucker will be up early in the morning and late at night doing pre-trip inspections in the cold. Make sure they can stay warm with utility gloves and a nice hat or coat.

Also, it’s cold OTR. Make sure they stay warm in the cab once they park with a space heater or electric blanket. The blanket doesn’t even have a lot of space because they’re available in throw sizes.

3. Coffee

Trucking is exhausting, your driver needs coffee to get moving and keep moving. Help them out by giving them the gift of instant coffee in their rig with a portable coffee maker. Also, get them a heavy duty thermos like a YETI one to keep their coffee warm for hours. Some truckers would like a mug the size of a gallon and you can also get ones with your photo on them for their favorite sports team.

4. T-Shirts

Truckers like to ride in comfort and style, that means they don’t need just any t-shirt but cool ones to flaunt at the truck stop. You can get trucking shirts with funny sayings like, “I just dropped a load.” You can also get them shirts for their favorite trucking shows like Ice Road Truckers or for awesome truck shops like Jack’s Chrome Shop.

5. Gift Cards or Cash 

ExpressTruckTax thanks truckers for their hard work
Harper, the famous trucking corgi. 

You can give the trucker in your life the ability to pamper themselves by allowing them to shop for themselves. With a gift card or cash, they will be able to get excited and go shop for what they really want. We know truckers are always wanting something cool from Wal-Mart or new tools from the hardware store.

6. Don’t Forget Their Pets

Many drivers take furry pals along on the road and they are more than best friends forever. They’re partners in trucking adventures. If your trucker has a dog, cat, bird or more, include them. Get them a new bone, catnip toy, sweater, bed, blanket, etc. Items that keep the pet entertained are best. The possibilities are endless and your trucker will really enjoy seeing their spoiled buddy included in the holiday festivities.

Happy Holidays From ExpressTruckTax

Here at ExpressTruckTax, we seriously appreciate all the hard work you do all year long to deliver essential needs all across the nation. We hope you get the chance to relax this holiday season with your loved ones. While your holiday is filled with classic traditions and laughs we hope the perfect trucking gift is included.

Please tell us what you want for Christmas in the comment section below and visit ExpresstruckTax for more trucking blogs.

How To Combat The Driver Shortage

ExpressTruckTax supports truckers

There is a major driver shortage facing the trucking industry and with the upcoming ELD mandate a lot of truckers, including the road veterans who love their job may quit.

If the driver shortage grows at an even more rapid rate the nation could face economic disaster because truckers are the backbone of our economy. With a current driver shortage of 48,000 drivers that’s only increasing we hope carriers are doing something to combat the issue. We even have a few ideas on how they can do so.

Fighting The Driver Shortage

1. Make Trucking More Inviting To Women

Women are an untapped working resource in America. While 47% of women make up the workforce only 6% are in trucking. That’s an incredibly low number, even though statistically women are better drivers. They have a lower rate of getting into accidents and often benefit from lower insurance rates because of it.

One thing that might turn women away from the industry is its reputation for being super manly. For example, if the true road warriors get hurt, they don’t notice. They simply rub some dirt in it and go about their days. Trucking can seem so manly at times it may be intimidating.

That’s why there are groups like Women In Trucking that show off women drivers, advocate for them, and show ladies that they have what it takes to become awesome truckers. Use their example to bring more gender diversity to the industry.

2. Should the Industry Lower The CDL Age?

Currently, if you’re under 21 you can only get your CDL for intrastate trucking. That means you can only deliver loads within your state until you turn 21. This makes things tricky for young drivers because local jobs tend to go to older, more experienced drivers.

If a younger person wants to become a driver the 3-year gap of having to wait after high school could be extremely demotivating. Plus, they might find another career path while they’re waiting.

But is 18 too young? Some experienced drivers say that there is no way an 18-year-old can handle the trucking lifestyle, while others say, if they are serious and mature enough to handle it then they should be able to.

3. Improve Health Conditions

Depending on how you handle it, trucking can be an extremely unhealthy profession. Sometimes drivers don’t make enough pay to get healthier food options, so they spend what they can on unhealthy fast food options for every meal.

Also, if they drive too many hours and need to sleep, they don’t have any time to work out. Plus, most carriers don’t provide drivers with good health benefits, so they don’t even have the tools they need to check up on their health.

ExpressTruckTax supports female truckers

Things like raising pay, reducing OTR hours, providing good health benefits, and providing health education could make a major difference. Obesity, heart conditions, and sleep apnea are only a few of the major health risks facing the industry.

Free health screenings, work out equipment in the cab, seminars about how to eat healthier on the road, and more could really improve trucker health and as a result, less people might be scared away from becoming a driver.

We Support Truckers

Our nation only functions because of the hard work that drivers do every single day and night. The growing shortage could cause a major economical disaster, but hopefully, carriers are getting prepared to combat it.

Please share your ideas about how to combat the shortage in the comment section below and visit ExpressTruckTax.com for more trucking blogs.

What To Consider Before Getting A Trucking Pet

ExpressTruckTax explains the responsibilities that come with trucking pets

The open road can be a lonely place. Somedays you might not see or talk to another person for hours. That’s what some truckers love about the job, but it can really bother others. In order to combat the loneliness of the road sometimes people turn to getting a trucking pet.

Nothing lights up the world like a fuzzy companion that’s happy to see you and excited to spend time with you, even on the road. However, with pets comes great responsibilities. Be prepared to handle all the tasks that come with getting a pet. Before you make up your mind on what to rescue we have a few things for you to consider.

Consider This Before Getting A Trucking Pet

First of all, when you get an animal consider the fact that they have to potty, so you will need to make sure that they have a place to go. That means either finding a safe place to let your dog out to go, which you will find yourself frequently doing with a puppy, or providing a place in your rig.

If you would like a cat secure their litter box. You don’t want it to go flying if you have to slam on the breaks. Also, keep in mind that you will need to scoop the litter once or twice a day or get some odor blockers. Some truckers swear by having birds as pets, which tend to go where they want unless you train them to go on command, which is actually possible.

Next, consider energy levels. Do you want a super energetic kitten that may pounce on you or an older, more relaxed cat? Can you handle an energetic dog breed like a German shepherd? Will you have time to pull over so they can run off some of their fuel?

Some people may think smaller dog breeds have less energy, but that’s not always the case. Beagles and yorkies are smaller and very energetic. Low energy dog breeds include bulldogs, pugs, basset hounds, and more.

Also, animals come with pointy objects like claws and teeth. If you get a puppy you will have to protect your rig when they are teething. Anything looks like the perfect chew toy during that phase, but you can distract them with bones and toys. Also, if you fear a car might destroy your seats you can distract them by purchasing scratchers for them to use.

You will also need to plan ahead for your pets. You will need to take enough food and water for them during your trips, also you will have to make space for their beds and toys. Don’t forget their medicine if they need any. Plus, will you be able to stop during your trip to head to the vet if you need to?

If you have to leave your truck for a little while then you will need to leave it idling for your pet’s comfort or you will have to make sure that you can take your pet with you into a public location. Having a leash and a crate to carry your pet in will help them be more welcomed in public locations.

Last but not least, think about how a new pet would make you feel. If the idea of a pup wagging his tail on a daily basis or cat purring while you head to your destination makes your heart swell then what are you waiting for? Go ahead and head to the local shelter to find your perfect trucking pet.

Happy Trails With Waggin’ Tails

If you feel lonely on the road a pet is a great way to cheer up. There’s nothing like a companion on the road. We’ve heard excellent stories of truckers and their corgis, pugs, chihuahuas, cats, lizards, and even their spouses on the road!

Just be sure that your carrier actually allows pets and that you can handle the responsibilities that come with them.

If you have a trucking pet please share a pic and tell us all about him/her in the comment section below and visit ExpressTruckTax.com for more trucking blogs.