What does it take to survive 2.5 million safe miles on America’s highways? For ATS specialized driver and Army veteran Bill Hodges, the answer comes down to preparation, honesty, and knowing that no load is worth a life. In a recent episode of the Beyond the Road podcast, Bill sat down to share his journey from the military to the trucking industry, his experiences through storms and downturns, and the advice he wishes every driver knew. From Army Veteran to Million-Mile Trucker Before joining ATS in 2014, Bill spent 15 years in the U.S. Army and another 1.5 million miles driving flatbed with his first carrier. His military background gave him the discipline and problem-solving skills to handle the unexpected — skills that have served him well across his 2.5 million safe miles on the road. “Veterans are self-starters,” Bill explained. “We’ve been in charge of people, dealt with stress, and learned to keep calm under pressure. Those traits carry over into trucking.” Surviving Freight Downturns The trucking industry is cyclical. Bill lived through the 2008 crash and compares it to the past few years of freight slowdowns. His advice to drivers is simple but powerful: Control your debt: Keep payments manageable in slow times. Budget weekly, not monthly: Pay can fluctuate. Maintain your credit score: It’s your backup plan when freight slows. Consider a secondary income stream: For rainy weeks or months. “Be upfront with your family,” Bill said. “If money is tight, they need to know so they can adjust. Honesty reduces stress at home.” The Driver–Fleet Manager Relationship According to Bill, one of the biggest factors in a driver’s success is their fleet manager. “Your driver manager can make or break your career. Communication is everything. If you break down, let them know immediately. If you’re struggling, talk it out. Hiding problems only makes them worse.” Weathering the Storms — Literally Bill has survived hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms while hauling specialized freight. His weather safety tips include: Check the radar before moving. “We delayed departure once because of a thunderstorm warning. An hour later, winds hit 60 mph. If we’d left earlier, it would’ve been a disaster.” Never be pressured by a paycheck. “The biggest danger is telling yourself you ‘have’ to move when roads are unsafe.” Stock your truck for emergencies. Food, water, and cold-weather gear can be lifesavers if you’re stranded. Know when to stop. “No load is worth a life.” One of his wildest stories? Delivering plywood to New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina, where his load was used to board up a Home Depot. Lessons for Reaching 1 Million Safe Miles Bill insists that million-mile safety awards don’t happen by accident. They require discipline, planning, and self-care. His key lessons for drivers aspiring to 1 million safe miles of their own: Take care of your equipment. Never skip pre- and post-trip inspections. Keep a funded maintenance account. Repairs are inevitable, so plan for them. Know your numbers. Understand your cost per mile, fuel strategy, and profitability. Stay healthy. Monitor blood pressure, get exercise, and bring a pet for companionship and stress relief, if you can. Keep in touch with family. Strong relationships at home keep you grounded on the road. Why Drivers Should Listen After 2.5 million safe miles and a lifetime of service, Bill’s message to other drivers is clear: plan ahead, communicate openly, and always put safety first. “Accidents are called accidents for a reason,” he said. “But if you make the safe decision whenever you can, you’ll stack up safe miles. That’s what it takes to make it in this industry.” For more interviews with trucking professionals, compelling stories, and the latest trends on the road, check out more episodes of Beyond the Road!

A lot’s been happening at ATS — and there's plenty of good news and exciting updates to share. In the past few months, we’ve brought back in-person training, boosted lease pay, and added new tech to make your job easier (and greener). Here’s what’s new from Q2 and the first half of Q3.

In trucking, a lot of attention goes to the numbers: The miles, money and hours. But there’s a quieter conversation that deserves more airtime: how you carry yourself while doing the job. Phillip, an ATS driver speaking from decades of industry experience, offers a refreshingly honest take on work ethic, patience, and the values that keep a driver grounded. This isn’t about rules and policies, it’s about purpose. And for those who take pride in their role, the message is clear: doing things right still matters. The Reward Comes After the Work Pride in the job doesn’t come from cutting corners. It comes from showing up with intention, executing the task, and knowing you gave your best. Compensation is important, and no one denies that. But when the task is done well, the reward feels earned. That kind of satisfaction can’t be measured in cents per mile. Chasing Excellence There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be paid fairly. But when money becomes the only focus, everything else starts to erode including safety, teamwork and even personal integrity. The perspective shared here reflects a grounded mindset: it’s not money that causes problems, but the way some pursue it. When drivers step on others to get ahead, rush unsafe, or ignore protocol, the risks go up for themselves and everyone else. Working toward a goal is good. But protecting the path that leads there like the company, the equipment, and the team is what makes that goal sustainable. Adjust, Don’t Settle No job is perfect. Weather, equipment delays, and customer changes are all part of life on the road. There’s wisdom in learning to adjust and move forward without losing sight of the bigger picture, staying safe, and finishing strong. The idea isn’t to ignore challenges, but to approach them with patience and maturity. The safest drivers aren’t always the fastest, but the ones who know when to slow down and do it right. Every Mile Sends a Message What’s written on the back of a truck isn’t just decoration. It’s a reflection of the company and the person behind the wheel. It sparks conversations, turns heads, and says something about how seriously a driver takes the job. When people ask about a carrier, they’re often responding to what they’ve seen on the road: behavior, cleanliness, and messaging. That reputation matters. Every time someone operates equipment with the company name on it, they’re sending a message — and drivers play a major role in defining that narrative. Company and Customer: Both Matter Everyone should finish a job with dignity. That includes the carrier, the customer, and the driver. When one wins at the expense of the other, no one really comes out ahead. Instead of asking, “What can I get today?” the better question is, “How do we all walk away satisfied?” That kind of thinking builds stronger teams, stronger companies, and better long-term opportunities for everyone involved. The Real Win Is Peace of Mind There’s a kind of sleep that only comes after a job well done. It doesn’t come from hitting numbers or chasing the next load. It comes from knowing you didn’t leave anything undone or unsafe behind you. It’s the confidence that comes from integrity. Doing the right thing when nobody’s watching. Finishing the day with nothing to hide and nothing to fix tomorrow. That’s the kind of win that sticks. Work with pride. Drive with purpose. And always do it the right way. For interviews with trucking professionals, compelling stories, and the latest trends on the road, check out episodes of Beyond the Road, the ATS podcast!

A pre-trip inspection is more than a DOT requirement — it’s your first line of defense against mechanical failure, missed loads, or a roadside violation. At Anderson Trucking Service (ATS), two seasoned trucking professionals teamed up to walk through a full trailer inspection, sharing tips, reminders, and safety insights that every commercial driver can benefit from. This isn’t theory. It’s the kind of real-world knowledge that comes from years of experience working with drivers, customers, equipment, and safety teams across the country. Here’s a breakdown of what they covered and what you should look for every time you get behind the wheel. Start at the Front: Air, Coupling, and Structure They begin at the front of the trailer, starting with the glad hands and air lines. You’re checking for cracks, worn seals, and anything that might lead to an air leak. From there, move on to the kingpin and fifth wheel, where a secure, visible lock-in is critical. Remember, it’s not enough to hear the click: you’ve got to get under the trailer and confirm the jaws are wrapped around the kingpin. Next, check the landing gear, making sure all bolts are tight and nothing is bent or cracked. A quick scan of crossmembers and the primary frame will help you catch any structural issues early. Bolts missing? Rust at key joints? Those are red flags that can get you sidelined. Securement and D-Rings While inspecting the trailer structure, make sure D-rings and other securement points are in place and undamaged. Improper or compromised securement can affect how a load shifts — and how the trailer handles under weight. One important note: check the dunnage. It should be wider than it is tall to keep it from rolling or slipping under pressure. It’s a small detail, but one that can make or break load safety. Lights, Tape, and Turn Signals Lighting is one of the most common inspection fails. Every light needs to be operational, turn signals, brake lights, marker lights, and four-ways. And don’t forget the reflective tape down the side of the trailer. Federal regulations require at least 50% coverage, and it should be clean and unbroken. A clean light is a bright light. Whether you’re hauling in Texas heat, through Minnesota snow, or on a dusty job site out west, road grime can make lights harder to see. Wipe them down regularly to maintain visibility, especially at night. Tires and Air Pressure Tire condition and pressure are make-or-break items on a pre-trip. Don’t just thump them with a hammer. Use a gauge and check for consistent pressure between duals. Mismatched tire pressure causes uneven wear, reduces fuel efficiency, and increases your risk of a blowout. In this inspection, both tires read 113 PSI, right in line. That level of precision may not always be possible, but you should never see a difference of 10, 15, or 20 PSI between tires. Also inspect the: • Wheels for cracks or bent edges • Lug nuts for tightness and signs of movement • Hub seals for leaks • Slider locks for full engagement Brake System and Suspension From the air canisters to the slack adjusters, everything in the brake system needs to be intact, connected, and secure. Listen closely for leaks. Any hissing or escaping air could indicate a problem with the hoses or fittings. The professionals in the video highlight the importance of checking: • Brake shoes for wear (look for manufacturer wear bars or cutout designs) • Slack adjusters and S-cams for full range of movement • Cotter pins and retainers for proper installation • Airbags for dry rot or cracks • Push rods for correct connection and secure mounting If any of these components are loose or damaged, braking performance suffers. That’s a risk no one wants to take. Rear Trailer Components As you move to the rear of the trailer, don’t forget to check: • DOT bumper for cracks or missing bolts • Mud flaps and mounting brackets • Brake and turn lights • Slack adjusters on both axles A final note from the team: be mindful of the hub area. Loose hub bolts or missing lubrication can cause a catastrophic failure, including wheel loss. It’s not common, but when it happens, the results are serious. How Far Should Brake Lights Be Visible? According to one experienced ATS team member, you should aim for brake light visibility at 650 feet. That’s the same distance you need to come to a complete stop at highway speeds. If your lights are dirty, cracked, or dim, you’re not just risking a citation — you’re compromising your safety and that of the motoring public. The Little Things Make a Big Difference The professionals performing this inspection emphasize one big takeaway: the small details are what DOT officers and serious carriers notice first. Clean lights, working signals, intact reflectors, and fully inflated tires make your truck inspection-ready at a glance. But they also help protect your load, your license, and your bottom line. Why It Matters Whether you’re hauling wind components in the Midwest or steel beams in the South, every pre-trip inspection gives you the chance to take control of your day before the road does. The DOT isn’t the only one watching. Your career, your safety, and your paycheck depend on staying alert, informed, and ahead of the game. Drive safe. Inspect smart. And keep it tight.

Explaining the camera system Why ATS uses Lytx Triggered and coachable events Tracked behaviors Understanding points and scores The ATS grace period At ATS, we believe that setting expectations clearly from the start is key to your long-term success as a professional driver. One of the tools we use to support our drivers and promote safe, consistent habits is the Lytx camera system. We understand this technology can seem confusing, and even frustrating, if you’re not familiar with how it works.

New intervention and retention policy Technology upgrades Safety lane changes In-person training restarts Here at Anderson Trucking Service (ATS), we put drivers first — always. The overarching theme of everything we’ve been trying to work on lately is to dramatically shift our culture so it’s less talk about putting drivers first and more about doing. Check out some of the things we’ve been doing the last few months to prioritize your success as a driver, including the new safety program, upgraded in-cab technology, a new safety lane initiative, and reinstating annual in-person visits.

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.

Meet Melvin, a flatbed driver at Anderson Trucking Service, as he reacts to the music video Mr. Truck Driva by Young Guy. With a laid-back vibe and a trucker’s perspective, Melvin shares his thoughts on the video, the song’s message, and how it connects to the everyday life of a driver. The Message Behind the Music More than just a catchy beat and some Jake brakes, the song strikes a chord with Melvin. “The message is definitely relatable,” he says. At its core, the song tells a story many truck drivers can understand: the balancing act between work, money, and personal relationships. Melvin breaks it down: “I don’t think women like a broke man… but at the same time, there should be a balance between your job, your money, and your family.” He shares a bit of advice that shows both heart and experience: “Always put your woman first before the money. If you’ve got a good woman, stay with her. You can get money from a lot of different things, but a good woman — that’s rare.” It’s a reflection many drivers will appreciate—navigating long hours, life on the road, and keeping relationships strong through it all. Music for Every Mile Melvin doesn’t just have opinions about Mr. Truck Driva — he’s got a whole music strategy for his day on the road. For him, music is a key part of staying grounded, focused, and connected throughout the day. Here’s how he breaks it down: • Morning: Gospel music is his go-to. Artists like Lee Williams and The Canton Spirituals help him start the day with a strong, soulful foundation. “Good Southern gospel music,” he says, with a nod to its calming and uplifting energy. • Midday: As the day moves along, Melvin eases out of gospel and into something smoother — R&B or blues. Names like TK Soul and Luther Vandross make the list. • Evening: By nightfall, it’s time to transition into rap. Artists like Lil Durk, Moneybagg Yo, and King Von take over. Still, he makes sure it’s a gradual shift. “I can’t dive right into the rap immediately,” he jokes. For Melvin, music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a daily rhythm that reflects his mood, mindset, and values. It helps him keep the day moving, no matter how many miles he’s got ahead. At the end of the day, Mr. Truck Driva is more than just a song. It’s a shoutout to the men and women on the road, and Melvin’s reaction reminds us just how much those lyrics reflect real life in the driver’s seat. Want to hear more from drivers like Melvin? Explore more videos and stories from real ATS drivers in our Learning Center, and if you’re ready to start your own journey with Anderson Trucking Service, fill out your information HERE to connect with a driver consultant.

Karol, a van division lease driver at ATS, shares her journey in the trucking industry and the reasons she chose the lease program over being a company driver. With 18 years of experience in trucking — eight of those at ATS — she values the flexibility that leasing offers. Unlike company drivers, who have limited control over their home time, lease drivers have the freedom to decide when and for how long they take time off. For Carol, this flexibility is a game-changer, allowing her to balance long stretches on the road with meaningful time at home. Leasing vs. Owning: Understanding the Differences While some lease drivers aspire to become owner-operators eventually, Karol knew from the beginning that full ownership wasn’t her goal. Leasing allowed her to enjoy the benefits of truck ownership — like independence and financial control — without the long-term commitment. When her lease ends, she simply returns the truck, avoiding the responsibilities of selling or maintaining an aging vehicle. For those considering becoming owner-operators, leasing is an excellent starting point. It provides valuable experience in truck management, financial planning, and operational decision-making before fully committing to truck ownership. ATS makes the process straightforward, ensuring drivers understand their responsibilities, such as maintaining the truck but not being financially responsible for trailer repairs unless damages are caused by negligence. Financial Discipline: The Key to Success Karol emphasizes that financial discipline is crucial for success as a lease driver. Unlike company drivers, lease operators are responsible for truck payments, insurance, and maintenance — even during time off. That’s why budgeting is essential. She personally sets aside extra funds in a reserve account to cover fixed costs when she takes time off. New lease drivers must also be aware of market conditions and make strategic choices when selecting loads. Freight availability varies by region, and running inefficient routes can significantly impact profitability. Using tools like the ATS load board helps lease drivers compare market rates and optimize their routes. Smart Truck Management and Maintenance A lease driver’s truck is their livelihood, and proper maintenance is the key to keeping it running efficiently. Karol compares it to owning a personal vehicle — neglecting maintenance leads to costly repairs down the road. Preventive maintenance, like routine servicing and minimizing idle time, extends the truck’s life and reduces unexpected breakdowns. Driving habits also play a significant role. Aggressive driving, excessive idling, and ignoring minor maintenance issues can wear down the truck prematurely. Simple actions — such as checking tire pressure, avoiding rough handling, and fixing small problems immediately — can save thousands in repair costs over time. Thinking Long-Term: Planning for Market Changes Karol advises new lease drivers to approach their business with a long-term mindset. The trucking market is unpredictable, and drivers must be prepared for fluctuations. While a strong year might bring high earnings, the next year could be slower. Many drivers fail because they assume a good market will last forever. Instead, successful lease drivers plan ahead, save money, and adjust their spending habits to prepare for downturns. Support from family is also crucial. The trucking lifestyle means missing important events like birthdays and anniversaries. Without understanding and support from loved ones, the challenges of lease driving can become overwhelming. Taking Responsibility: The Owner-Operator Mindset Although leasing isn’t full truck ownership, Karol believes drivers should treat it as if they're running their own business. Small repairs, such as fixing a mud flap, can be done without waiting hours for roadside assistance. Carrying basic tools and having a proactive approach to maintenance can keep drivers moving instead of being stuck at truck stops waiting for service. Additionally, financial preparedness is non-negotiable. Some drivers make the mistake of spending all their earnings without setting aside emergency funds. If a truck breaks down, expenses like hotel stays, food, and transportation can quickly add up. Without savings, a minor issue can spiral into a financial crisis. Debunking Lease Myths Many people question whether leasing is worth it. Karol acknowledges that some drivers view it as a “fancy fleece” designed to take advantage of them. However, she firmly believes that lease driving is what you make of it. Drivers who plan ahead, understand their financial responsibilities, and operate their trucks wisely can find great success in leasing. Ultimately, the decision to lease or remain a company driver comes down to personal preference and readiness. Leasing isn’t for everyone, but for those who want more control over their schedules and finances, it offers a valuable opportunity. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’re considering leasing at ATS, take the time to research, plan, and prepare for the challenges ahead. If you’re ready to take control of your trucking career, check out our lease options and fill out your information to speak with an ATS recruiter. Leasing isn’t just a job — it’s a business, and success comes to those who treat it that way.