10 Things to Look For When Buying a Used Reefer Trailer When buying a used reefer trailer, it is important to inspect your trailer to ensure you are buying quality equipment that will help your trucking business turn a profit.  Here are a few checkpoints to consider before you sign the dotted line and purchase a used semi reefer trailer.   Service Records Check to see if the reefer trailer you are purchasing comes with service records.  Ensuring the equipment, you are purchasing was well cared for before you owned it is important for the life of the unit and the box ..read more

FICO VS VantageScore In the United States, two companies dominate the credit scoring industry. FICO®, the oldest and the industry leader, and VantageScore®, the score used by Credit Karma which has been growing in popularity since it was created in 2006. FICO In the transportation industry, FICO® scores are the main scores used by all the top lenders. Base FICO® scores range from 300 to 850, and the main factors that impact a score can be separated into five categories: Payment History Credit Usage Length of Credit History Types of Accounts Recent Activity The finance software th ..read more

Purchasing a Truck or Trailer from Pedigree Truck & Trailer Sales has its advantages including significant tax deductions on the current years taxes if you purchase before 12/31. We reached out to Abacus CPA’s LLC who offer Tax Solutions for Transportation Professionals. They put together this handy chart listing the Pro’s and Con’s of purchasing vs leasing. Abacus recognizes that real value is in the planning. It’s empowering. You know where you stand at all times and what decisions you need to make. Pedigree Truck & Trailer Sales and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accoun ..read more

You may already know the importance of regular preventive maintenance for your semi-truck or trailer, but what about the tires that keep you rolling in the first place? Choosing the right tires is a top priority, but maintaining them after purchase is just as essential. When you invest the time and resources into keeping tires in good condition, they’ll reward you with lower fuel costs, and properly inflated tires can reduce risk of truck breakdowns. Read on for tips on getting the most out of your tires. Recommended Tire Pressure for Trucks Simply keeping your tires properly inflated goe ..read more

Regular semi-truck maintenance is crucial for getting the best value out of your big rig. Preventive maintenance can lower the long-term cost of ownership by reducing the need for costly repairs while helping you avoid time-consuming breakdowns and stay safe on the road. And your diesel engine, in particular, deserves an extra helping of TLC during maintenance appointments, and from drivers in their day-to-day operations. After all, the engine is what makes the truck go in the first place. If it fails, the whole vehicle is out of commission until it can be repaired. Here are a few simple tips ..read more

Your semi-truck is your office, and it’s also your home when you’re on a run. While you’re focused on making on-time deliveries, avoiding traffic hazards, and logging your miles, there are many things you can do to have a pleasant driving experience. What can you bring along to stay comfortable and connected? Here are a few semi-truck cab accessories and supplies that will make life on the road more enjoyable. Wear the right gear. When you’re driving all day, you’ll appreciate a quality pair of polarized sunglasses to prevent eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. Make sure you’ve got a pair of ..read more

As fall approaches, the U.S. freight market, including the demand for trucking, remains strong in the second half of 2018. Freight hauled by trucks is projected to grow 3.4% this year, according to the American Trucking Association. The ATA’s U.S. Freight Transportation Forecast predicts that freight moved by all modes will increase from 15.18 billion tons in 2017 to 20.73 billion by 2028. A growing economy means robust demand for freight, with carriers able to charge more for their services. Challenges include a continued shortage of drivers and trucks, along with high fuel prices. Here are s ..read more

The need for more truck drivers has become well-known in recent years, resulting in increased career opportunities and earnings potential for new and experienced drivers alike. But did you know there is also a shortage of trucks for hauling goods, which is also creating challenges throughout the industry? According to one recent estimate, in May 2018 there were 6.6 loads to be shipped for every one truck available, down from a 10:1 ratio in January. With trucks accounting for 70% of all U.S. freight volume by weight, carriers and shippers alike are feeling the pressure. Let’s take a look at wh ..read more

  When it comes to semi-trailers, a tire is never just a tire. Tires are typically the biggest equipment cost for semi-trucks in general, and trailer tires in particular play a big role in getting the best performance out of your rig. Keep reading for five key factors to help you get the best value when purchasing tires for your semi-trailer. #1: Fuel Efficiency and Trailer Tires Trailer tires play a bigger role in fuel efficiency than those in other axle positions. Trailer tires account for 40%-50% of tires’ overall impact on fuel efficiency Drive tires contribute 30%-40% Steer tires co ..read more

Preventive maintenance (PM) means you are taking proactive steps to ensure your equipment is in top condition. As a fleet owner, preventive maintenance means you’ll spend more time on the road and less time in the shop. Benefits of a Preventive Maintenance Program Preventive maintenance (PM) means you are taking proactive steps to ensure your equipment is in top condition. As a fleet owner, preventive maintenance means you’ll spend more time on the road and less time in the shop. Besides maximizing vehicle availability, there are many other benefits of preventive maintenance over a more r ..read more