Blogger on Haulage activities in Nigeria

  Truck and tractor-trailer drivers operate some of the largest and most complex vehicles on the road. Due to their size, these vehicles have significant blind spots — areas around the truck where other vehicles or pedestrians are not visible in the mirrors. These blind spots, often referred to as “ No-Zones ,” pose serious safety risks if not properly managed. Understanding and mitigating these blind spots is essential for safe driving and accident prevention. Where Are the Blind Spots? Front Blind Spot Located directly in front of the truck’s cab. Drivers often cannot see vehicles or obstacles within about 20 feet in front. 2. Rear Blind Spot Located directly behind the trailer. Can extend up to 200 feet behind the truck. Rear-view mirrors do not cover this area, making reversing particularly dangerous. 3. Side Blind Spots On both sides of the truck, particularly the right side (passenger side). Can extend across multiple lanes. These are the most dangerous blind spots due t...

  In recent weeks, Nigeria has been shaken by heartbreaking accidents involving Dangote trucks. One of the most painful incidents was the death of a young lady who just graduated six days before the crash , and another occurred near Apostle Johnson Suleman’s church. These tragedies have again raised urgent questions: Why do these accidents keep happening? and what can be done to stop them? image: sahara reporters Why Do These Accidents Happen? Truck crashes in Nigeria are often the result of: Poor driver training – many truck driver...

  When it comes to the safety and reliability of trucks and tractor-trailers, electrical system monitoring is just as important as engine performance and braking power. Two often-underestimated tools that contribute significantly to road safety are the voltmeter and ammeter. These instruments help drivers monitor the health of a truck’s electrical system, which powers essential components such as lights, ignition, communication systems, and emergency equipment. Understanding the Voltmeter and Ammeter Voltmeter : This instrument measures the voltage (electrical potential difference) of the vehicle’s battery system. It helps detect whether the battery is being overcharged or undercharged. Ammeter : This device measures the current flowing to and from the battery. It shows whether the battery is charging (current flowing in) or discharging (current flowing out). Together, these tools give drivers real-time insight into their truck’s electrical status, helping to prevent breakdown...

  When it comes to truck safety, few systems are more vital than the air brake system . Among its components, one often overlooked yet critical part is the wet tank , also known as the primary air reservoir. For truck and tractor-trailer drivers, regularly draining the wet tank is not just a maintenance step — it’s a safety essential that can prevent brake failure, reduce repair costs, and even save lives. What is the Wet Tank? In heavy-duty trucks with air brake systems, the wet tank is the first air reservoir where compressed air from the compressor is stored. As the air passes through the system, it carries moisture and oil vapor  — byproducts of air compression. The wet tank acts as the first line of defense , collecting most of this moisture and oil before it reaches other parts of the brake system , like the service and emergency reservoirs. Why Does Moisture Accumulate? Air compression naturally creates condensation . Even with an air dryer installed, some water, oil...

  In today’s fast-evolving transportation industry, the road to safety, efficiency, and profitability doesn’t stop at a driver’s license. As logistics demands grow, vehicles become more advanced, and roads get busier, the need for consistent retraining of truck drivers becomes not only beneficial — but absolutely essential. Retraining isn’t just about correcting bad habits; it’s about adapting to new realities , enhancing safety , and boosting performance . For any serious logistics company or independent truck owner, regular driver retraining is an investment with long-term returns. Why Is Retraining Necessary? 1. To Keep Up with Changing Technology Modern trucks are equipped with cutting-edge systems — GPS, automated gearboxes, collision warning sensors, and digital dashboards. Without proper training, even experienced drivers may misuse or underutilize these tools, leading to inefficiency and even accidents. Example : A driver unfamiliar with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) m...

  In Nigeria’s booming haulage and logistics industry, the availability of spare parts is as essential as fuel. But beneath the surface of this vital sector lies a dangerous threat silently crippling businesses and endangering lives: fake truck spare parts . For truck owners, fleet managers, and investors, the use of counterfeit parts may seem like a cost-saving measure — but the hidden costs far outweigh the temporary gain. In fact, fake parts are one of the leading causes of road accidents, mechanical failures, and financial losses in the Nigerian trucking industry. Understanding the Fake Spare Parts Menace Fake or substandard spare parts are unauthorized copies of genuine vehicle components, often made with low-quality materials. They look like the real thing, but lack the durability, precision, and safety standards of original parts. From brake pads and suspension systems to filters, clutches, and engine components — counterfeit versions flood Nigerian markets, especially...

  In the world of trucking and haulage, most of the spotlight goes to the truck itself and the driver behind the wheel. However, there’s a silent hero behind the scenes who can make or break the success of any transport business: the mechanic . For many fleet owners and truck investors — especially in Nigeria and other developing economies — recognizing the value of a skilled and trustworthy mechanic is often an afterthought. But the truth is, a good mechanic doesn’t just fix trucks — they protect your investment, improve safety, and boost long-term profitability . Why Every Truck Business Needs a Good Mechanic 1. Minimizing Downtime, Maximizing Uptime Every day a truck sits in a workshop or on the roadside due to breakdown is money lost. Deliveries are delayed, clients are disappointed, and drivers remain idle. A reliable mechanic ensures: Quick diagnostics and accurate repairs Preventive maintenance that prevents breakdowns in the first place Faster turnaround time to get th...

  The haulage and trucking business is one of the most attractive sectors for investors in Nigeria. With the country’s growing demand for logistics — from agricultural produce to industrial goods — trucking offers huge potential for returns. However, many beginners jump into the industry with unrealistic expectations and little preparation. The result? Losses, frustration, and abandoned trucks on the roadside. If you’re considering investing in the trucking business, especially in Nigeria, understanding the common mistakes can help you make smarter, more profitable decisions. 1. Going in Without Industry Knowledge The Mistake:  Many new investors believe all they need is a truck and a driver to start making money. They don’t understand the operations, regulations, or daily realities of haulage in Nigeria. The Fix: Learn the Business First. Attend logistics or transport business training. Speak with experienced fleet owners. Understand the Routes, Risks, and Returns. What’s ...

For years, the Nigerian haulage industry has faced a heavy burden not from the weight of the goods it carries, but from the unofficial hands collecting fees along the roads . Truck drivers, already navigating treacherous highways and enduring long hours, have also had to deal with an exhausting and unregulated web of informal tax collectors  — local government agents, road union enforcers, and outright touts demanding payments at almost every checkpoint. The Strain of Informal Tax Collection Ask any truck driver traveling from Lagos to Kano, or Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, and they’ll tell you: every state border and local council junction is a potential stop-and-pay point . These payments — often illegal or poorly accounted for — add layers of cost, frustration, and delay to an already complex business. google search Some key effects of this informal system have included: Loss of income for truck drivers , who often bear the brunt of these payments from their pockets. Unpredictable de...

  When people think of truck driving, they often picture long highways, heavy loads, and endless hours behind the wheel. What’s often overlooked is the tourist aspect of truck driving  — a unique opportunity to travel, experience new places, and see the world in ways most people never do. For young people looking for a career that blends adventure, skill, and stability, truck driving offers more than just a paycheck — it offers a lifestyle of exploration . Truck Driving: The Road as a Classroom and a Playground Truck drivers are modern-day explorers. Their job takes them across states, countries, and even continents. Each route introduces them to new sights, cultures, landscapes, and people. Scenic Routes : From coastal highways and mountain passes to bustling cities and quiet rural roads, truck drivers often experience some of the most beautiful and diverse parts of a country. Cultural Exposure : Stopping in different towns and regions allows drivers to experience local food, cust...

  Truck driving is more than just getting from point A to point B. It requires careful planning to ensure safety, efficiency, and overall well-being. Proper trip planning can prevent delays, reduce risks, and improve driver health , making it a critical part of every truck driver’s routine. 1. Enhancing Road Safety Safety is the top priority for every truck driver. Poorly planned trips can lead to fatigue, rushed driving, and unexpected road hazards , increasing the risk of accidents. Effective trip planning helps in: Identifying Safe Routes  — Planning the best roads to take helps avoid accident-prone areas, low bridges, or roads restricted for heavy trucks. Managing Driving Hours  — Following Hours of Service (HOS) regulations prevents fatigue and ensures the driver is well-rested before long trips. Weather and Traffic Considerations  — Checking weather forecasts and traffic reports helps avoid dangerous driving conditions such as storms, fog, or roadblocks. 2. Improving Ef...

  Truck driving is a crucial profession that keeps goods and people moving efficiently. However, not all truck drivers perform the same job. Two major categories in the trucking industry are passenger truck drivers and Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers . While both require skill, experience, and responsibility, their roles, vehicle types, and job demands differ significantly. 1. Vehicle Type and Purpose Passenger Truck Drivers: These drivers operate trucks designed to transport people rather than cargo. Common examples include buses, shuttle vans, and certain types of transport coaches. Their primary responsibility is ensuring the safe and comfortable transportation of passengers from one location to another. HGV Drivers: HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers operate large trucks and tractor-trailers designed for transporting heavy cargo, such as goods, raw materials, or fuel. These vehicles typically weigh over 3.5 tonnes and include articulated lorries, tankers, and flatbeds....

Truck and tractor-trailer engines are the powerhouse of the transportation industry, driving the global economy by delivering goods across vast distances. These engines are marvels of engineering, designed to withstand extreme conditions, heavy loads, and long hours of operation. However, their reliability and performance hinge on one critical factor: proper inspection and maintenance. Neglecting this aspect not only jeopardizes safety but also impacts a company’s bottom line. Here’s why maintaining these engines is essential for both safety and profitability. The Engine: A Complex and Vital Component Modern truck and tractor-trailer engines are highly sophisticated machines. They are built to deliver immense torque and horsepower while maintaining fuel efficiency and complying with stringent emissions standards. Whether it’s a diesel-powered semi-truck or a heavy-duty tractor-trailer, these engines operate under immense stress, often running for hundreds of thousands of miles over the...

Truck drivers rely on various instruments to monitor the performance and health of their vehicles. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked tools is the pyrometer. A pyrometer measures the exhaust gas temperature (EGT), which plays a vital role in maintaining engine efficiency, preventing damage, and optimizing fuel consumption. Understanding its importance can help truck drivers enhance performance and avoid costly repairs. Why is a Pyrometer Important? Prevents Engine Damage Excessively high EGTs can lead to severe engine damage, including melted pistons, burnt valves, and cracked cylinder heads. A pyrometer allows drivers to monitor and control exhaust temperatures, preventing catastrophic failures. Optimizes Fuel Efficiency High EGTs are often a sign of inefficient combustion. By monitoring these temperatures, drivers can adjust driving habits or engine settings to ensure better fuel economy, ultimately saving money on fuel costs. Enhances Performance Truck drivers who haul hea...

  The trucking industry is undergoing a massive transformation as automation and artificial intelligence reshape the way goods are transported. While some fear that self-driving trucks will replace human drivers, the reality is that technology is more likely to create new roles rather than eliminate jobs entirely. Truck drivers must prepare now by acquiring new skills to remain relevant in this evolving industry. Emerging Technology-Focused Roles for Truck Drivers As automation advances, traditional driving jobs will evolve into technology-driven roles. Here are some of the key positions that will emerge: Fleet Management and Remote Monitoring  — With autonomous trucks handling long-haul routes, drivers can transition into fleet management roles, overseeing multiple vehicles remotely to ensure smooth operations. Autonomous Vehicle Technicians  — Truck drivers with mechanical knowledge can upskill to become AV technicians, responsible for maintaining and repairing self-driving ...