If you’ve ever been in a situation where you need tire chains or cables, you know how important it is to get them on properly. Whether you're driving through deep snow or icy conditions, knowing how to install tire cables can make a huge difference. Here at Anderson Trucking Service (ATS), we only want drivers to use chains or cables to get them to a safe location; if the roads are bad enough to require chains or cables, we want drivers safely off the roads. Let's walk through how to put on tire cables, as well as explain the differences between tire chains and cables, and when to use each. Step 1: The Right Tire Chains or Cables Before anything, you need to make sure you have the correct tire cables for your truck. This means two things: · Right Quantity: You’ll need to ensure you have enough tire cables for all the drive axles that require them. This could mean placing cables on just the rear axle, or both axles. · Right Size: Semi-trucks come in various tire sizes, so you need to make sure the tire cables are sized correctly for the tires on your rig. Check your tire specifications and verify that the chains or cables match those measurements. Step 2: Find a Safe Spot to Install By the time you need tire chains or cables, the conditions are probably pretty rough. Finding a flat, safe spot to pull over is key. Ideally, you'll want a place that's away from traffic and has enough space to work. Step 3: Lay Out the Tire Cables Once you’ve got your tire cables ready, lay them out on the ground next to the tires. It's important to get the orientation right: · Inside vs. Outside: Tire cables have a clamp mechanism that tightens the cable around the tire, and this mechanism should be on the outside of the tire (facing away from the truck). · Top vs. Bottom: Make sure the cables are oriented correctly so they will fit snugly around the tire once installed. Step 4: Drape the Tire Cables Over the Tire With the cables oriented correctly, drape them over the tire. It might feel challenging, especially in deep snow, but it’s good to make sure that the tire cable covers the tire evenly. Once you’ve got it positioned, tuck the cable as far as possible under the tire. Step 5: Move the Truck Forward Now that the tire cable is draped over the tire, it’s time to move the vehicle forward a few feet. This step helps pull the cables into place and allows you to finish tightening them. Step 6: Secure the Tire Cables With the cables in position, it's time to secure them: · Inside Connection: Start by securing the inside of the tire. Thread the wire through a slot and hook it into the tightest notch you can reach. This will keep the cable snug against the tire. · Outside Connection: Do the same for the outside of the tire. Pull the cable tight and use the ratcheting mechanism to secure it in place. Step 7: Drive Forward and Retighten Once the cables are secured, move the truck forward just a few more feet. This helps to further settle the cables into place, and you’ll likely need to retighten them. It’s common for cables to loosen after the first drive, so stopping to check the tension is important. You may need to adjust them once or twice to ensure they’re tight enough to provide good traction. Tire Cables vs. Tire Chains: What’s the Difference? While both tire chains and tire cables are designed to provide traction in snowy or icy conditions, there are a few key differences between the two: · Durability: Tire chains tend to be more durable and are better suited for longer distances. They’re built to handle more wear and tear over time. · Purpose: Tire cables, on the other hand, are generally meant for rare, short-term use. They're best for situations where you need to cover a small stretch of road but don't expect to be driving in hazardous conditions for long periods. Final Thoughts: Linking it All Together Installing tire cables might not be something you do every day, but knowing how to do it properly can save you a lot of time and trouble when you’re caught in tough driving conditions. With the right tools and a little patience, you can get your vehicle moving safely again, even in the snowiest of situations. Check out the Diesel Diaries podcast for an inside look at the trucking industry. It features truck driver guests, compelling stories, and the latest trends on the road.

Do you prefer silence on the road, or would you rather listen to something that keeps you engaged and awake? If the answer is the latter, then this article is for you.

Let’s face it: Not everyone has $150,000 burning a hole in their pocket to buy a shiny new truck outright. That’s where leasing comes in — a chance to take the wheel of your own rig without having to sell a kidney or start a GoFundMe to get the funds. But is it the right move for you? Let’s break it down (hopefully not like your truck might if you skip maintenance). Who’s the Right Fit for Leasing? Leasing isn’t for everyone. The drivers who crush it in a lease program usually have some solid trucking experience under their belts. You’ve been around, you know how the industry works, and you’ve survived at least one parking lot showdown over a stolen spot at the truck stop. Bonus points if you’ve got a financial cushion for when things go sideways (because they will—this is trucking, not a Disney movie). If you’re new to trucking, it might be smart to hold off on leasing until you’ve had time to learn the ropes. Jumping into a lease with no experience is like playing poker with your rent money — it’s risky, and you might end up eating ramen for months. What to Look for in a Lease Not all leases are created equal, and some are about as trustworthy as a Craigslist ad for “lightly used brake pads.” Here’s what to keep in mind: Pay Structure: Understand how different programs compensate drivers. For example, one lease may pay 70 percent of gross revenue but have higher expenses, while another pays 62 percent with fewer costs. Expenses: Look for hidden fees, such as trailer rentals, maintenance charges, or plate costs. Insurance: As a lease driver, you'll need to secure your own health, dental, and vision insurance. Programs tailored for truckers can help mitigate costs. Maintenance Costs: Prepare for repair expenses and potential downtime. Even new trucks can require unexpected maintenance, and downtime can impact your earnings. Fuel Efficiency: Opt for trucks designed for better fuel efficiency to reduce operating costs. While aesthetic features like long-nose designs may be appealing, they often increase fuel consumption. Perks of Leasing: The Bright Side Leasing isn’t all doom and gloom. Here’s why it might be worth considering: Freedom: Leasing allows you to operate as an independent contractor, giving you control over your schedule, routes, and decisions. Income Potential: Many lease drivers earn more than company drivers, making it a lucrative option for those willing to put in the effort. Access to New Equipment: Leasing often provides access to newer, more reliable trucks equipped with modern safety and efficiency features. Lower Upfront Costs: Compared to purchasing a truck, leasing requires little to no money down, making it accessible for drivers starting out. Why ATS’s Lease Program Stands Out At ATS, we like to keep things simple, transparent, and as hassle-free as possible. Here’s what makes our lease program driver-approved: Well-Maintained Equipment: ATS provides some of the best trucks on the road, featuring modern safety features and excellent fuel efficiency. Transparent Costs: ATS keeps fixed costs competitive and manageable, ensuring drivers have a clear understanding of their expenses. Supportive Environment: From recruiters to leasing managers, ATS staff work to ensure drivers have the resources and support needed to thrive. Flexibility: ATS offers both short-term (one to two years) and long-term leases, with options to purchase at the end of the term. Is Leasing Right for You? Leasing is a great way to level up your career without drowning in debt. But it’s not for everyone. If you’re ready to take on the risks and rewards of being an independent contractor — and you don’t mind the occasional curveball — leasing could be your ticket to financial freedom. Ready to Roll? If the ATS lease program sounds like a good fit, check out our Lease-Purchase options or talk to one of our recruiters. They’ll help you compare programs, answer your questions, and maybe even throw in a few dad jokes. Because at the end of the day, we’re here to help you succeed.

Did you decide the grass was greener on the other side and switched trucking companies recently? How do you know if the grass really IS greener on the other side? There’s nothing worse than thinking you found the perfect trucking company only to find out that everything you were told about the company was either a lie or the company was significantly misrepresented. Just when you think you’ve found a stable, top-paying trucking company to grow with, you find out that it’s no better than the company you just left.

Burnout is inevitable in almost any career. And no, we aren’t talking about burnouts in NASCAR. We’re talking about the type of burnout that makes it incredibly difficult to show up to work each day and do your job effectively.

In this episode of Diesel Diaries, we explore personal journeys, trucking industry challenges, and valuable safety tips for winter trucking. Meet Robert Racchi and John Kastner Racchi recently joined ATS as a safety manager, bringing decades of experience as a driver and business owner to the table. His journey from military service to trucking leadership is both inspiring and informative. With nearly five years at ATS, Kastner oversees safety technologies, including Lytx systems and driving simulators. His technical expertise, combined with a great sense of humor, makes him a favorite among drivers. Winter Safety Essentials: Be Prepared As winter sets in, the team offers safety tips for navigating cold and icy conditions: Maintain Your Bunk Heater: Additives and preventative maintenance can keep your heater running smoothly. Stock Up on Essentials: Blankets, Sterno cans, and hand warmers can be lifesavers in emergencies. Drive Smart: Slow down, increase following distance, and know when to pull off the road. Learning from Real Incidents The team reviews real-life video clips of trucks navigating dangerous conditions, analyzing what went wrong, and providing actionable insights. Understanding road conditions and avoiding risky moves are key takeaways from the discussion. Looking Forward To wrap up, Lori invites drivers to share their questions about market trends, economic challenges, and strategies for staying successful in the new year. The team plans to address these topics in upcoming episodes. For audio listeners and more episodes:

Looking for a new trucking company to drive for? A key aspect of your research should be freight — what kind you’ll haul, specifically. If you don’t like the freight you’re hauling for whatever reason — you have to unload it, you have to tarp it, it’s complicated to secure, etc. — you’re not going to enjoy your job very much.

CB (Citizens Band) radios have been a staple for truck drivers for decades, providing a reliable, low-cost way to communicate on the road. While drivers certainly don’t use them like they used to — stats show that less than a third of truckers use them today — CB radios are a helpful tool that you may want to utilize.