West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. on West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc.

Top Reasons Car Haulers Are a Popular Transportation Option | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:01:53 UTC

When you are on the road, you know you have a job to do and that can (and should) take your entire focus. Getting from location A to location B in one piece will ensure your safety as well as the safety of whatever you are hauling!

Using a car hauler is one of the safest and most efficient ways to transport cars across your community or even across the country because they are uniquely designed to transport multiple vehicles safely during a single journey. Check out some of the other benefits that you are providing for your customers below!

You Are Protecting the Cars From Damage

It can be tough out there on the road, and that certainly holds true for cars especially. Rock, loose gravel, slippery roads and other road hazards can cause dings, dents or even accidents during the journey. When a car can still travel but has the ability to get up off of the road, it will be safely protected from the elements and will be secured during the entire journey.

You Are Reducing Vehicle Wear and Tear

It doesn’t matter if the cars you are hauling are brand-new or have been around the block more than once, no one wants to put excess wear and mileage on their cars if they don’t have to. Every mile driven can impact a car’s ability to function, and different factors like the environment or the road can cause strain on the engine or other internal components.

Pulling the car off of the road for the long journey can reduce the need for costly repairs and maintenance for the owner in the long run.

You Are Safeguarding Their Investment

Car haulers are efficient because they can carry multiple different cars at once, thus minimizing time spent on the road for multiple different people. You don’t have to make multiple trips, each car owner doesn’t have to be on the road for endless hours and you can get it all done in one fell swoop! Car haulers also give owners peace of mind that their car is being taken care of and will be delivered when you say it will.

The specific brakes, suspension and secure ramps ensure that their car is locked, loaded and ready to make the trek without worry. Your own hauler is most likely also equipped with safety features like wheel chocks or specific tie-downs that can further ensure the safety of the cars.

You are providing an incredibly helpful service to our community, whether or not you think about it on a daily basis. Stay safe and stay motivated to provide the best service possible to your customers!

Expanding your fleet? Check out our inventory at West Coast Enterprises.

New to The Road? Tips and Tricks For Truckers | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:35:51 UTC

Welcome to the world of long haul trucking, car hauling or any career that you have just accepted that will bring you onto the open road and across the country. This profession has so many benefits and positive attributes that it can make a fulfilling and lucrative career for just about everyone.

However, that doesn’t mean that just anyone off the street can get behind the wheel and be successful right away. We offer up some simple tips and tricks below to help you start off on the right foot so you can settle in for many years of success on the road.

Become the Expert

We have all seen car haulers and semi trucks rolling down the road, but that doesn’t translate into knowing all about them. Take the time to get to know your equipment and become the expert on your specific rig. Even if you have been hauling for years, each truck is different from one another and will need a little extra TLC to understand completely from wheel well to headlight.

Go over each winch, strap, trailer ramp and anything else that could potentially malfunction on the road. You should also understand where and how to look for signs of wear and tear on your equipment. If you can catch a strap that is starting to wear early, you can replace it without worrying about causing a serious incident or accident later.

Be Prepared For the Job

Just like each car hauler or truck is different, each job you take on is different. Be sure you completely understand the task at hand before loading anything onto your truck and have extensive conversations with your customer(s) about what their needs are before you get started.

After you understand the weight load, the specific cars you are hauling and any special considerations, select the right straps, ratchets and tie downs to ensure a secure ride to your destination. You should also fully understand the distance you are traveling so you can make your own plans for breaks, stops or even lodging ahead of time. The worst time to be caught without a plan is when you have someone’s precious belongings tied down behind you!

Address Issues Right Away

This one may seem obvious, but it might surprise you at just how many truckers will power through a potential issue just to shave off a few minutes or hours off of their travel time. If you notice something like an oil leak or a shuddering when your transmission shifts, it is best to address these issues immediately rather than trying to limp along until your destination.

Getting the problem fixed, even if it takes a little extra time in the process, will always be in favor of your customer. Take pride in your rig and take pride in knowing that you are transporting important possessions, so stop when you need to and tackle repairs right away.

We wish you a safe and successful career on the road! If you are ever ready to switch trucks or are interested in checking out our inventory come visit us at West Coast Enterprises.

Top Winter Driving Tips for Big Rigs | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:01:54 UTC

Watching the seasons change from behind your windshield can be so refreshing, which is part of what makes life on the road exciting. While many of us prefer to drive in perfect conditions, we can’t always control where our schedule takes us next.

If your next journey takes you north and you find yourself encountering snow and slippery roads, knowing what to do and how to adjust your driving can help keep you safe.

Be Seen

Depending on the size and intensity of the storm, visibility could be diminished and it can be really hard to see other cars or trucks on the road. That also means that those cars will have a harder time seeing you, too! Stop regularly to clean off snow from your mirrors, lights and reflective tape so you don’t take anyone by surprise.

You should also be aware of brake lights around you and ahead of you. If someone is hitting the brakes, it is probably for good reason.

Give yourself plenty of space between your vehicle and other cars so you have ample time to slow down or make the decision to change lanes if needed. If and when you change lanes, use extreme caution and watch for cars that become hidden in the snow cloud kicked up by your lane change.

Don’t Be Slick

We can’t control the conditions on the road, but we can all control how we drive on them. Some roads may be just wet and sloppy and others could be sheer ice, and oftentimes you don’t get an advanced warning before the conditions change.

Watch your acceleration speed on any entrance or exit ramps, and slow down when you go over bridges, especially if you have to stop while in the middle of one. Bridge surfaces tend to freeze first because there isn’t any ground beneath to act as insulation.

Try not to drive in the ruts of other vehicles, as their wheels could have packed snow down hard enough to become icy. If you encounter wide-open stretches of road and the wind starts to pick up, slow down and travel carefully, especially if you are hauling an empty trailer. A single gust of wind could be enough to upend your truck or cause you to slide and jackknife.

What to Pack in a Winter Emergency Kit

Winter weather is unpredictable and can quickly lead to a serious situation or end in a crash. If you end up stranded on the side of the road for any length of time, it is essential that you have a few emergency items on hand that can keep you warm and safe until help arrives.

Keep a handful of reflective triangles in your bag so you can quickly set them out in front of your rig if you are stationary. Just use extreme caution when walking around outside of your vehicle when it is slippery, as it will also be slippery for other passing cars and you certainly don’t want to get hit.

A warm blanket, flashlight, ice scraper and shovel are all also essential items to have on hand that will help you navigate your environment until help can get to you.

We hope you have a safe and uneventful winter hauling season! If you are ever in the market for a new truck or car hauler, West Coast Enterprises is the place to be.

Driving Through the Mountains With Confidence | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 14:01:44 UTC

One of the best parts of operating a semi or car hauler is all of the places that this job can take you. We get to see oceans, plains, large cities and the beautiful mountain views across the country. While all of these sights are exciting and can keep you entertained along the way, it is important to change up the way you drive in order to stay safe.

This is especially true when it comes to mountain driving! The steep grade and unpredictable nature of the mountains can create some pretty dangerous scenarios if you are not careful. Refresh your memory on these simple safety tips before you begin your next climb into the skies:

Watch the Grade

As you enter mountain country, watch for signs alerting you to grade changes. Most steep hills or climbs will come with a grade warning, but don’t just judge a hill by looking at it.

The threat of overheating is probably the biggest hazard while climbing a steep grade, so turn on your engine fan and keep an eye on your temperature gauge. Go slow to give your engine the time it needs to function without overheating.

What goes up must come down! As you make your way over the hill and find yourself slowly coming back down, give yourself the time you need to stay in control by going slower. Your truck is carrying a massive amount of weight, and that can make it much harder to slow down quickly when you need to. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your reduced speed.

Control Your Traction

While you can control your speed, it can be harder to control your traction because we can’t control the elements. If your schedule takes you through the mountains when it is icy or slippery outside, take extra safety precautions to avoid jackknifing or serious spinouts. Put on your tire chains before even starting your climb and then pull over to take them off after you are out of the mountains.

If you do end up having to drive through snow, create your own tire tracks and avoid driving through the ones created by other drivers. Those ruts can quickly become compressed into slippery ice that can make you lose control.

Knowing When to Wait

We can all pride ourselves on our abilities to navigate through tricky terrain or the elements, but we all also need to know when to call it quits for the time being. If the conditions become too hazardous or a storm is predicted to hit right when you are going to be in the middle of your mountain journey, making the right decision and pulling off the road to wait it out is sometimes the best choice.

After all, arriving late is better than risking it all to get there on time. Keeping these tips in mind can help you stay confident and in control no matter what the mountains throw your way on your next journey. Stay safe out there, truckers!

We can help you find the perfect truck or hauler. Check out our inventory at West Coast Enterprises today.

Packing and Transporting Your Cargo the Safe Way | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:02:10 UTC

Safety is always your No.1 priority while you are on the road, but safe driving practices start before you even begin each journey. Knowing the ins and outs about your truck and hauler, while also understanding weight limits, is crucial for your safety and for the safety of the other drivers on the road.

Refresh your memory below about weight limitations and gain some helpful tips for getting your cargo from point A to point B in one place—and in one piece.

The 411 on Weight Limitations

We all know that trucks don’t have an infinite amount of weight they can carry, and it can even be dangerous to carry over the recommended limit no matter how long your trip is.

Overloading your truck can also be illegal. Commercial vehicle weight limits exist for a reason, and you could experience legal consequences if you are pulled over with an overloaded truck.

Be sure to know your truck’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and incorporate all parts of your truck in that weight. Don’t forget that fuel, passengers, cargo, additional parts and extra tires can all add into your final weight.

Loading Up Your Cargo

Before you add the first pallet or whatever you are hauling, make sure you have enough room in your truck bed to fit the entire load. Assess the situation and determine if you can hand-load the cargo or if you need the assistance of mechanical equipment to get it all inside your rig.

Balance the weight of your cargo so that your truck is not top-heavy or end-heavy. Anything that gets loaded out of balance can throw off your entire truck’s center of gravity and that can lead to dangerous accidents or tipping hazards.

Securing Everything Down

One of the most important aspects of cargo loading is making sure it won’t go anywhere while you are on the road. Tiedowns have to be the proper strength and type in order to provide the best protection, so do your research to determine if ropes, straps, chains or tensioning devices like ratchets should be used.

Once everything is secure, your entire truck should be reinspected one final time before heading out on the road. We want you to stay safe and deliver your important cargo on time, but safety is always key.

If you are in the market for a new hauler, you know where to go! Check out our inventory at West Coast Enterprises today.

A Refresher on Driving Hours | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:02:54 UTC

The hours can run into each other while on the road, and whether you are an avid podcast listener or you love to drive in the peaceful silence, it can be easy to get distracted and not keep an eye on the clock. However, driving until you are exhausted is dangerous!

That is why there are rules and regulations set in place to keep you safe while on the road. An overworked driver can lead to accidents and even life-threatening situations. Refresh your memory on the different driving hour regulations and breaks so you can stay in compliance while driving.

Property-Carrying Drivers

If you drive a truck loaded with freight or goods, your max driving limit is 11 hours at a time, only after you have taken 10 consecutive hours off duty. In addition, all drivers must take a 30-minute break once they have been driving for eight cumulative hours without an interruption. If you are driving along and realize that you are getting close to this limit, it’s time to pull over.

In addition, there is also a limit on the number of hours and days that you can work in a row. For example, if you work for seven consecutive days, you cannot drive more than 70 hours total without taking a break. After those seven days are up, a rest period of 34 or more hours is required before getting behind the wheel again.

What to Do During the Rest Period

If you are an active person and don’t like to sit and wait idly by for the time to pass, we feel you! The trucking life is exciting and you are constantly on the move to the next location, so it can be hard to slow down and rest. However, resting is so important for your health and safety, as well as the safety of the other people on the road with you.

If you have reached your 11-hour limit, pull over and consider taking a nap or getting some solid sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to slowed thinking, reduced attention span and even risky decision-making. Just be sure to lock your doors and secure your cabin before catching those ZZZs.

The 30-minute required breaks can be a bit easier to navigate! Getting out of your truck and stretching your legs at a rest stop can help reduce your risk of developing a blood clot, and it is also just good for your body to stretch out and move regularly. Plan out your route before you even get going and find some fun pull-off zones or scenic overlooks that you can enjoy while taking your required rests along your journey.

In need of a new truck or hauler?. Check out our inventory today.

Top 5 Tools Every Trucker Should Carry on the Road | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 13:01:59 UTC

The wide open road can be freeing while you are driving to and from your destinations, but it is unpredictable. Things can go wrong or awry at a moment’s notice and leave you stranded or in a situation that requires a quick solution.

Having certain tools and equipment with you at all times can help you navigate the uncertainty of life on the road. These five tools are things that every trucker should have ready to use at any time:

1. Air Pressure Gauge

We know that many truckers are professionals at keeping their tire pressure in check and can tell if air needs to be added by simply thumping the tires, but having an air pressure gauge is key!

Having a reliable way to read your tire pressure will ensure that all of your wheels are running smoothly. If just one of your tires has too much or too little air pressure, it can lead to blowouts and a serious problem.

2. Duct Tape

Duct tape can fix the world, it seems! Strong tape can offer quick fixes while you are on the road.

A piece of duct tape can help temporarily splice wires, hold together broken pieces of equipment and even patch together clothes in your jeans or shirt! Clear duct tape is also helpful to have on hand in case any of your stickers or registration tabs start to come off while you are traveling.

3. Crowbar

A crowbar is a useful multipurpose tool to have while you are on the road. You can use it to remove nails, pry open crates, jiggle loose a stuck ramp or even to pull rocks from your tire treads.

4. Shovel or Broom

If your job takes you to the northern states in the winter time, having a shovel or broom is key if you have to drive through a snowstorm. Snow can quickly build up around your tires or underneath your trailer, and it can sometimes cause your truck to not drive properly.

You can also use the broom handle or shovel to knock down those snow piles and to chip away at any ice buildup.

5. Flashlight

Having a flashlight on hand is important for staying safe while navigating issues at night.

If you are broken down on the side of the road or need to pull over quickly, having a flashlight ready to use can help fix your issue quickly and get back in your car. It also offers some protection from other drivers, as the flashlight beam can alert them to your presence on the road.

We can help you find your next truck or car hauler. Check out our inventory today.

Top Tips for Dealing With Aggressive Drivers | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 13:02:00 UTC

We all know what it is like out there on the road these days. While many people are kind and courteous to large trucks and car haulers, there are also people who aren’t as nice and can cause serious safety concerns with their hazardous driving.

It can be easy to drive with emotion when people are being rude or downright aggressive, but that can lead to dangerous or even deadly situations in the blink of an eye. Our team offers some helpful ways to deal with aggressive drivers so everyone makes it home safely at the end of the day.

Avoid Confrontation

The first instinct of many people is to react and make faces, yell or use hand gestures to get their point across when they are cut off or put into a dangerous situation out on the road. We really recommend you avoid having any sort of reaction other than maintaining control of your vehicle. Angry drivers want to intimidate you or could even be seeking out conflict. Remain in control and let the other driver move past without incident.

Interacting with the other driver could escalate the situation to where the person wants to slow down or drive next to you to harass you some more. You never know what sort of weapon could be in the car, so focus on what matters and let him or her pass quietly.

Contact Authorities

Thankfully, most people will react in a quick burst of anger and then just drive off. However, if they choose to stick around to mess with you or seem to want to make you angrier for some reason, it is within your best interest and the interest of those around you to call the authorities.

He or she certainly is not driving safely and keeping an eye on the road, so the lives of other people driving are at risk. Calmly call 911 to report the aggressive driver and give them the license plate number.

Don’t Get Out of Your Truck

We all know that emotions can get the best of us, but escalating the situation by pulling over or stopping your truck can lead to serious consequences. Take a deep breath and continue driving safely.

If they follow you, do not drive home, but instead, head to the nearest police station and call them while you are on the way so they are ready. If you are stopped at a stop sign or stoplight, don’t engage with the person if he or she gets out of the car and is headed your way. Stay calm and wait for your opportunity to move on.

Stay safe out there on the road, fellow truckers! Getting home safe is always the most important part of your job.

Are you in the market for a new truck or car hauler? Check out our inventory today.

Ways to Stay Entertained on the Road | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 13:01:54 UTC

Working as a truck driver, you are bound to spend many hours on the road by yourself. For when there’s nothing on the radio, here are a few ways you can stay entertained on your next road trip.

Listen to Podcasts

Podcasts are great if you enjoy listening to something lengthier during your ride. With more than 5 million podcasts globally, there is something out there for every niche interest. Browse comedy, true crime, political, sports, health and wellness channels, plus so much more.

If you are able to find a podcast you love, binging their episodes can be a great way to pass the time on your drive. Check out this list of the best podcasts of 2023 and see if any pique your interest!

Make a Call

It is nice to have your alone time on the road, but sometimes it can get lonely. Who have you missed the most during your time on the road? Use this time to call a family member or a friend that has been on your mind during your road trip.

Whether it’s catching up with an old high school buddy or talking to your daughter about her day, spending quality time on the phone with those you love is a great way to pass the time.

Listen to an Audiobook

Regardless of whether you are much of a reader, audiobooks are a great pastime and alternative to listening to music or podcasts. Get lost in a mystical fantasy world or learn a new language with audiobooks on platforms like Audible.

There are a ton of genres to explore on the Audible app that suit a variety of interests.

Meditate

Driving alone can be the perfect time to try out a quiet meditation or breath work exercise. If you’ve never tried meditation before, following along with a guided meditation can be helpful. Apps like Calm offer short and long meditation practices designed for commuters.

Breathing techniques, like the box breath method, are also excellent strategies to help you stay focused and present while driving.

Does your truck need an upgrade? Take a look at available stock on our website.

Summer Safety Tips for Truck Drivers | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 13:01:44 UTC

Summer is well on its way, and for professional truck drivers, the summer heat comes with safety challenges to be aware of. Beat the heat and stay safe with these summer tips:

Hydration on the Road

The summer heat can dehydrate you fast if you aren’t drinking enough water. Even for truck drivers who are sitting for long periods of time, it is important to stay hydrated!

Aim to drink eight glasses of water a day to help you feel your best. Consider investing in a reusable water bottle to take with you and fill it up on the go!

Watch Your Tire Pressure

Underinflated tires are much more likely to happen when the weather is hot and road temperatures have increased. The last thing you want is to have an accident, or be stranded in the summer heat due to a tire blowout.

Make sure to double-check your tire pressure before getting on the road. It is also a good idea to regularly check during your pit stops.

Don’t Forget the SPF

Did you know that you are still being exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays when you are inside of a vehicle? During the summer, it is especially important to apply sunscreen to avoid harmful sun exposure that can seep through your truck’s windows.

You could also consider wearing a hat or long-sleeve shirts to protect your skin in addition to sunscreen, along with UV-protectant sunglasses.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Severe weather can occur out of nowhere in the summer. Some states are more prone to sudden inclement weather than others.

That’s why it is important to be aware of local weather reports before you drive so that you can stay up to date if a storm is incoming. If you run into some rain, be sure to drive slowly and be cautious when making turns. Use your discretion and pull over if the weather does go south on your trip.

Stay cautious and keep these safety tips in mind while you are on the road this summer.

Looking to upgrade your truck in 2023? Visit our website today to view our current inventory!

Night Truck Driving Safety Tips | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:01:56 UTC

As a truck driver, there may be times you find yourself driving at night. While you must be cautious and safe every time you’re on the road, night driving comes with its own unique set of challenges for drivers.

Advantages of Night Driving

There are many perks to driving your route during the nighttime, including less traffic on the road, less construction going on and fewer distractions. This gives you ample opportunity to focus on driving and getting where you need to be on time.

Disadvantages of Night Driving

While driving at night has its perks, there are also downsides to driving when most other people are asleep. For starters, you may be disrupting your natural sleep pattern.

When you do need to stop for a rest, finding an area in a truck park may be challenging since lots of other drivers are already parked and resting. Additionally, it may be harder to see obstacles in the road without the light that daytime provides.

Considerations When Driving at Night

It’s no secret that driving in the dark can be challenging. Here are a few things to consider when you find yourself driving at night:

Take a short nap. If you aren’t a night owl, your body will naturally want to sleep when you need to stay awake. Consider taking a brief rest before embarking on your night route to reenergize.

Take a (cautious) walk. Getting outside and moving your body may be just what you need to get that much-needed burst of energy. Be cautious about your surroundings, only walk in well-lit truck stops and wear a visibility jacket if you choose to stop on the side of the road. A short stroll may be exactly what you need to keep trekking along throughout the night.

Lower the cab’s temperature. Many people would agree that cool air is a good way to keep them awake. Consider lowering the temperature within the cab and opening the window to let the evening air into the truck periodically. The sound of the wind outside can also help keep you alert when you begin to get sleepy.

Is it time to upgrade your truck to keep your business running? Visit our website today to view our current inventory!

Tips for Enjoying Your Time on the Road | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Mon, 01 May 2023 13:01:41 UTC

Being on the road for long periods of time can be challenging for anyone. Even if you love your job and the ability to travel all over, there may be times when you’re feeling a little homesick.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make your time on the road feel more like home!

Keep in Touch With Loved Ones

It’s no secret that truck drivers can feel lonesome from time to time. Even if you’re an introvert and enjoy your alone time, it’s important to keep in touch with your loved ones.

Make a point to call your family and friends during your breaks, and check in when you know something is going on. A simple phone call can go far!

Stay Active

We know that exercise has an array of benefits, and it may be even more important for long-haulers to keep an exercise routine. Since truckers sit for long periods, carving out time for movement can have numerous physical and mental benefits.

You can enjoy walking or jogging to explore your surroundings, or get a national gym membership and check out gyms in different states

Take Time to be a Tourist

If you’re driving along an unfamiliar route, take time to do some research. What sights are there to see? Where is the largest tourist attraction in the area? If possible, make a list and stop when you can. It may be fun to get out, walk around and see what other tourists enjoy in the area!

It may also be a good idea to write down, or take photos of, your travels. When you come close to that attraction on a future route, you can always stop by again!

Keep Your Mind Active

Long trips and winding roads can make you feel sleepy and groggy. Getting adequate rest and stopping when you need to is important, but when you’re in the middle of a route and want some mental stimulation, there are many options to choose from.

Many long-haulers enjoy listening to music, audiobooks and podcasts. As long as you can stay focused and safe on the road, listen to whatever you enjoy!

When you’re ready to upgrade your truck, we have a large inventory to choose from! Visit our website to learn more.

Maintain a Work-Life Balance as a Truck Driver | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 13:01:51 UTC

Being on the road often means you’re away from loved ones, your warm bed and other household amenities for long periods of time. This can make anyone homesick and feel like they’re worn down by their work schedule.

Instead of becoming stressed out when it’s time to make a living, consider incorporating these tips to help achieve a better work-life balance.

Why Is Work-Life Balance a Priority?

Having balance makes you a better employee in any industry. When you’re on the road, it is important to maintain your mental and physical health—not just for your sake, but for others’, as well.

Work-Life Balance Tips

Incorporate a portable hobby into your travels. What do you enjoy doing? Can you bring it along with you on the road? The key here is to keep your brain stimulated while you’re away from home. Consider taking up photography to capture your travels, drawing beautiful scenery or learning a new language. Whatever hobby you choose to pursue, be sure to plan ahead so you have all the supplies you need when you set out on your next route.

Communicate with others frequently. It can be easy to feel disconnected from the “real world” when you’re out on the road. The next time you make a stop, give your spouse, a loved one or a friend a call. Just hearing a familiar voice and having a short conversation can boost your mental health significantly.

Bring along entertainment. Before you head out on your next route, be sure to have a stock of entertainment handy. Download audio books, try out a new podcast and bring a book or two with you. When it’s time to wind down after a long day of driving, a nice book may be exactly what you need to relax.

Plan your routes intentionally. If you have a new restaurant you want to try or an attraction you want to see, consider planning your routes around these places. Having some fun while on the road can help you stay engaged, entertained and interested on your routes.

Visit our website today for all of your trucking and financing needs!

Keeping Yourself Safe as a Long-Hauler | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:01:08 UTC

Safety is of utmost importance as a trucker. There are concerns over keeping yourself safe, as well as others on the road.

Most long-haulers know the ins and outs of truck safety, but it is never a bad idea to brush up on ways to improve your safety routine.

Perform Truck Inspections Regularly

Before and after every trip, give your truck a good look-over. Vehicle inspections are required by the Department of Transportation for good reason, and performing them as much as possible is beneficial.

Before heading out on your next haul and when you’re at a truck stop, take a walk around the vehicle. This can help prevent any mishaps from occurring along your route.

Be a Defensive Driver

Being on the road for long periods of time comes with lots of challenges. You are constantly faced with difficult drivers all hours of the day and night.

Practicing defensive driving is a great way to keep yourself and others safe on the road. Avoiding road rage, slowing down as needed and always checking blind spots are key when driving such a large vehicle.

Improve Alertness and Focus

It’s no secret that long-haulers have to be awake, alert and focused in order to get from point A to point B safely. Fortunately, there are many ways to increase alertness while operating a large truck.

Becoming sleepy on the road can be dangerous for not only yourself, but many others. If you’re feeling tired and unable to focus on driving, be sure to take a few moments to rest at a truck stop.

Take Breaks as Needed

It may be tempting to go, go, go to reach your destination. In reality, trucking is a physically and mentally taxing occupation that should be treated as such. Be sure to spend time relaxing, resting and focusing on nonwork-related things.

Remember that being safe on the road isn’t just important for you, but for many others, as well. Practicing defensive driving, staying alert and taking breaks when you need to are great ways to improve your safety while on the road.

To view our complete inventory and learn about financing options today, visit our website!

Tips for Making Your Truck’s Cab Feel Like Home | West Coast Enterprises

West Coast Enterprises Truck and Trailer Sales, Inc. — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 14:01:35 UTC

Long-haul trucking is a career that requires long periods away from your home, family and friends. This can get lonely and can make you miss the amenities of your own warm, comfortable home.

Fortunately, there are many ways to make your truck’s cab feel like a second home while you’re out on the road.

Personalize Your Space

Just because your truck is your money-maker, doesn’t mean you can’t personalize your cab so it feels cozier.

Consider adding photos of loved ones with damage-free command hooks or hanging posters or artwork. You can also hang LED lighting to make the space feel like your home away from home.

Don’t Forget Entertainment

After a hard day’s work, you’ll want to relax before heading to bed. Just like at home, your go-to method to rewind may be watching television or a movie.

Consider adding a DVD player or TV to your cab—some even come with a TV hookup! For streaming services, you will need a WiFi connection and can utilize a mobile hotspot if needed.

If you prefer to unwind with a good book, be sure to stock up on a few before heading out on the road. Think about what you enjoy doing for leisure at home and bring those items along with you in your cab.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Area

Getting a good night’s rest isn’t only important for your health, but is also necessary for maintaining safety on the road.

A mattress pad can help you create a more relaxing space. Blankets and pillows can add comfort and help you feel more at home in your truck’s cab.

Add Appliances

Adding appliances to your truck’s cab can truly bring the conveniences of home on the road.

Many truckers opt for a mini-fridge and microwave so they can make their own meals without stopping all the time. Single-serve coffee makers also fit in a cab and can help you get your caffeine fix first thing in the morning.

Stay Organized With Storage Options

Clear, plastic storage containers can help keep your belongings from cluttering up your space. Since your cab is small and you’ll be spending lots of time in there, the last thing you want is to be surrounded by a messy space.

Also consider keeping plastic baggies handy, since leftovers can be stored in them and they are a better space-saving solution compared to Tupperware.

For all of your trucking needs, including sales and parts, contact us today!