Transportation & Logistics

The freight transportation industry is huge in Canada, with trucks accounting for around ninety percent of all shipments in 2017, approximately nine percent by rail, and the rest by air. With progress over the years, the industry has grown considerably, with many companies shipping to multiple locations worldwide.

Knowing a few basic details about Canadian freight shipping can help new businesses choose the right company for their specific requirements, helping them save money and time. For instance, depending on the products you ship, you might need a reliable customs broker in the country you are shipping to with contacts in the Department of Agriculture, FDA, and others.

So, refer to the ensuing information to learn more about these pivotal details and begin transporting goods to and from Canada at the earliest possible.

Check certifications and experience

Any reputable Canadian logistics provider will provide you with numerous essential licenses and certificates, from the vital Partners in Protection certificate (PIP) to the crucial Transport Canada registration. These ensure border security, eliminate bootlegging and smuggling contraband, ensuring freight companies maintain the highest possible security levels and industry standards.

Moreover, using a local company with at least a decade or more experience will help as they know the fastest and safest land, air, or sea routes to use for your shipments. Also, they can suggest the appropriate modes of transport for your specific products, ensuring they reach the correct destination on time.

Types of transportation options

Even if you are looking for a trustworthy local freight trucking company in Canada, it is better to opt for one that ships goods internationally. You may need these services when you expand your business. So, an essential thing to check is the transport types they provide, allowing you to choose from various reasonable options.

Ideally, it is safer to trust Canadian companies that provide vetted and licensed trucks, intermodal rail transport, and ocean and air shipments. Also, consider enterprises that help you transport LTL (less than truckload) and full truckloads, depending on your current requirements, assuring you of high-volume capabilities.

Average cost

Typically ocean freight charges in Canada can range from $2,000 to $3,000, with significant exports consisting of crude petroleum and gas and imports including delivery trucks, cars, and computers. However, these estimates change all the time depending on market conditions, with various transportation methods costing different amounts.

You can also ask a local company for a quote by entering your name, company name, email, and contact information. You must not fail to include commodity details such as type, dimensions, weight, and delivery destination.

Generally, it is prudent to opt for a Canadian logistics company that includes fuel charges instead of adding FSC later to the quoted price. They rarely charge additional fees besides what they mention for the transport, allowing you to save considerable finances.

Additional Assistance

Reputable Canadian freight shipping companies will provide extensive support and assistance to ensure your goods are transported safely across the border. So, besides the essential carriers, they will help you navigate taxes, complicated packaging requirements, customs duties, and other vital documentation that typically accompanies international transportation.

They will also track your shipments until delivery, ensuring each reaches the intended destination safely. Therefore, find a Canadian company that provides door-to-door service to major cities worldwide, standard door-to-port or airport services at affordable rates with additional assistance along the way.

In the past, when gas prices have increased, auto transport cost has also gone up. This is because the amount of gas that is used to transport a car is directly related to the price of fuel. There are still ways to save money on car transportation, you just have to look for those opportunities and strategically plan your car shipping needs.

1. The High Gas Prices are causing a Decrease in the number of Cars being Shipped

According to a recent report, the high cost of gasoline is having a major impact on the number of cars being shipped around the country. In the past year, the number of cars shipped by rail has decreased by nearly 10%. The decrease is even more pronounced for trucks, with a 15% drop in shipments. The report attributes the decrease to the fact that it is now more expensive to ship cars by rail than it is to ship them by road.

As a result, many automakers are opting to keep their vehicles closer to home, rather than incurring the extra cost of shipping them long distances. While this may be good news for local dealerships, it could have a major impact on the used car market, as fewer vehicles will be available for purchase.

2. Car Shipping Companies are Having to Raise their Rates to cover the Increased cost of Fuel

Car shipping companies are finding themselves under pressure as the cost of fuel begins to rise. In order to stay in business, they are being forced to raise their rates. This is due to the fact that fuel prices have a direct impact on the cost of running a car shipping company.

The higher the price of fuel, the more expensive it is to ship cars. As a result, car shipping companies are being forced to pass on these increased costs to their customers. While this may be unfortunate news for consumers, it is important to understand that the car shipping companies are simply trying to stay afloat in an increasingly difficult market.

3. Some companies are Refusing to Transport Trailers that are not Full

If you’re looking to get your car shipped, you may be able to snag a discount if you’re willing to wait a bit. Some companies are refusing to transport car shipping trailers that aren’t full of cars, which means they often offer discounted rates to people who want to get their cars shipped.

Of course, this also means that you’ll have to be flexible with your timeframe, as the company will likely prioritize full trailers over partially full ones. But if you’re not in a rush, it’s definitely worth checking into. You could save yourself some money and help out a company at the same time! Win-win.

4. Reduced Travel dates during Difficult times of the Year with Harsh Weather.

When it comes to shipping a car, timing is everything. Carriers try to avoid travel during difficult times of the year, when weather conditions can be harsh and gas prices are high. As a result, prices for car shipping tend to be lower during the spring and fall. However, this doesn’t mean that car shipping is impossible during the winter months. In fact, many carriers are equipped to handle even the most challenging weather conditions.

So if you’re planning to ship a car during the winter, be sure to work with a reputable carrier that has experience shipping cars in all kinds of weather. With a little careful planning, you can ensure that your car arrives safe and sound – no matter what Mother Nature throws its way.

5. How much are Car Shipping costs increased by Fuel Prices?

As any driver knows, fuel prices can have a big impact on the cost of driving. When gas prices go up, it can be pricey to fill up the tank, and that can lead to increases in the cost of transportation. But how much do fuel prices really affect auto transportation costs?

It turns out that fuel prices have a significant impact on transportation costs. According to a study by the American Trucking Associations, every one-cent increase in the price of diesel fuel adds about $400 million to the trucking industry’s annual fuel bill. And since trucks transport about 70 percent of all freight in the United States, that means that higher fuel prices can lead to higher prices for many goods and services.

Of course, not all transportation costs are directly impacted by fuel prices. But since fuel is such a big part of the cost of running a truck or ship, it’s likely that increases in fuel prices will be passed along to consumers in the form of higher transportation costs. So next time you see gas prices on the rise, be prepared for some potential increases in the cost of transportation.

conclusion

As you can see, fuel prices have a big impact on the cost of shipping cars. Car shipping companies are being forced to raise their rates in order to stay afloat, and some companies are even refusing to transport partially full trailers. However, there are some ways that consumers can save money on car shipping costs.

For example, timing is everything when it comes to shipping a car, and prices are typically lower during the spring and fall. Additionally, many companies offer discounts for people who are willing to wait a bit longer for their car to be shipped. So if you’re planning to ship a car, be sure to keep these tips in mind! With a little careful planning, you can save yourself some money.

In this age of freight and shipping uncertainty, having a reliable international shipping partner is paramount. You must ensure your goods reach their final destination – your reputation depends on it.

However, with so many shipping partner options, it’s not always easy deciding who to choose. If you need a hand with this complex process, consider these helpful tips to narrow down your options.

Choose a Professional Company

Whether you’re looking for the best eCommerce fulfillment Australia has to offer or a company that can handle all international orders from Europe, it can be tempting to simply go for the most competitive price.

However, shifting your priorities to focus on professionalism, reputation, and service guarantees will give you much-needed peace of mind. Companies that hit these criteria are in this industry because they know how it works, and the same can’t always be said for businesses that provide a cheap service.

Identify Companies with Experience

The international shipping industry is more challenging than ever before, and companies must troubleshoot a range of problems daily to meet their clients’ needs and expectations. Consider aligning yourself with a company with several years of experience, staffed by experts who know how to handle whatever is thrown their way.

Typically, they highlight this information in the ‘about’ section of their website. However, if you know that a company has been around for several years, this can also be a good sign that they have the level of experience you’re looking for.

Confirm their Networks

Where you’re exporting your goods might impact your decision surrounding which international shipping partner you align your business with. Pay attention to their shipping channels and where they send the most freight.

Some shipping partners work more closely with some countries than others, which means you might experience better customer service with a shipping partner familiar with your freight route.

Ask Around

Word of mouth means a lot, with it often being described as a business’s most powerful advertising tool. If you’re not familiar with international shipping partners, talk to someone who is.

Another business owner or individual might be more than happy to endorse a company they use and will likely give you the reasons why they recommend them. Once you have a few options, you can research them online to learn more about them before making your final decision.

Read Reviews

It seems simple, but checking the online reviews of various international shipping partners could help you choose the best company for your needs quicker than you think. Some companies are more highly regarded and recommended than others, and both satisfied and unsatisfied customers are more than happy to share their experiences with the world online.

Check their Services

Not all international shipping partners offer the same services. Some describe themselves as port-to-port service providers, while others extend their services to truck shipping and railway. You might even find that some partners only assist with ship freight rather than ship and air freight.

Pay close attention to the services offered to ensure they align closely with your needs. While you might think your products will arrive at their destination in a matter of days, choosing the wrong company or transport method might see the arrival time stretch out to weeks.

Choosing an international shipping partner is not always a straightforward process, and it can be costly to make the wrong choice. Consider the tips above, and you’ll be aligned with a reputable partner sooner than you think.

Being a newbie in any field can be challenging, and it can get hard to find your best way to proceed with the role assigned. But it can get a lot easier when you have pros and seniors there to advise you for every step you take in service. Hence to make your truck driving job easy, here are some tips for new truck drivers. These tips will work best for you in different jobs, also the ones listed in CDL jobs.

Tips from Pros to the New Truck Drivers

1. You will Never Get it Perfect Right Away

Like everything else you do in life, it will be impossible to be 100% perfect on your first day at work. You won’t know everything about this role when you become one of those pro haulers. You will be learning many things with time and by giving your hundreds and thousands of hours on the wheel. And after that, you will be one of the pros and will be able to ace your job.

2. You will go through a Lot of Mental Pressure

People who come to this industry may think that they will be sitting for hours in one place and simply be shifting the pedals. But this isn’t even the tip of the iceberg. Instead, the insiders claim that there are mental hurdles such as loneliness, stress, and a lot bigger challenges at your door to challenge with. By facing all of these, you will be able to become a great asset to the trucking industry.

3. Know what you want

A few truckers come to this business without any particular goal for what they want from this field. It will help you have some specific goals in your mind before you search for truck driving jobs in CDL jobs.

4. Be Organized

While someone who hasn’t started their work may not think about this, there is a lot to keep track of when you are hitting the road. Even after the EDL revolution happened in the industry, truckers need to document all aspects of their activity, such as saving receipts. This will help have a system in place, and it will also keep your cab as neat as possible.

5. Don’t put Blind Trust in your GPS

GPS devices surely have made the lives of many truckers a lot easier, but helping them plot the best routes, these maps are still a step behind. There are many stories where experienced drivers get guided down the roads when they have no idea where they are headed.

6. Build a Strong Relationship with the Dispatcher

The new truckers mostly have a low man over the totem pole kind of treatment. This is natural for all businesses. If you build a rapport with a strong relationship with the dispatcher, they will most likely be willing to assist you as you are devoting yourself to this industry.

7. Build Plans Always to Stay Healthy

Health is wealth is mostly believed by people who aren’t healthy. People with no illnesses take their health for granted, and hence if you step into this field, make sure you have a proper plan for remaining healthy. It can be a physical toll on your body with time, and hence you will have to make the most suitable plan for you.

These are truck drivers’ tips that you should know about and make sure you are keeping yourself and the people around you safe. You can get your job hunt started from CDL jobs and will surely secure a strong position.

The important things to remember when buying a car are 1. Do your research, 2. Be smart at the dealership, 3. Get pre-approved with your loan, 4. Shop for the best car loan, 5. Look at both new and used cars.

So, you have decided to buy a new car. That is always an exciting time. Whether this is your first time or you are an experienced car owner, there is always something you can learn to make the process a lot easier for you and your wallet.

Do not end up with a car you regret by following these tips on finding the best auto loan rates.  

Do your Research before Buying a Car

When you get to the auto lot, you will be distracted by all the bells and whistles a salesperson would put in front of you. They are trained to make you feel you need to buy more than you need. Don’t fall for that common mistake.

Instead, why not go into an auto dealership with an idea of what you want? You can find most details about car models online. You can visit consumer reports or manufacturer websites to get a good idea of what they offer. 

When doing your research, make it a goal to find the features you would consider non-negotiable. That could be very subjective and dependent on your situation. Some examples of features that others deem important are:

1. Car seating capacity
2. Miles per liter
3. Complete safety features
4. Blind-spot monitoring
5. Cargo space

There are so many aspects of a car, from performance to aesthetics. The idea is to find a vehicle with the right features that fit your needs. If you have a large family, a wagon could be a good idea. If you frequently carry plenty of things, an SUV or pickup truck are great options.

Everything boils down to what you need and what car can provide those needs. Armed with that knowledge, you will not get distracted by shiny things a dealership would offer you. Instead, you are focused on finding the right car.

Be Smart at the Dealership

Dealing with a salesperson is like playing chess. You have to play it smart and be patient. That way, you do not seem overeager and make mistakes. If you do, they can play you like a fiddle and you end up with an overpriced car that does not fit your needs.

They would tend to ask you questions like if you are looking to get a loan or trade in a car. Do not give too much information right off the bat. That gives them leverage to work with. It creates a complicated dynamic that they can navigate easily while you get overwhelmed with information.

What you want to do instead is ask for the price of a vehicle you are looking at. Then keep things simple. Discuss things one at a time. If the price they give is too much, move on to a different model. 

Once you are settled on a price and car model, discuss the terms one thing at a time. Be vigilant as well with everything they offer you. Ensure that you need it before you tick the box. Add-ons can contribute up to a 300% increase in the total price.

Get a Pre-approved Loan

You would not want to go into a car dealership, fall in love with a model, then find out you cannot afford it or there is a problem with your credit. Before you shop for a car, go and get a pre-approved loan first.

There are many advantages to this. First of all, you unveil any problem with your credit even before committing to a new loan. Another advantage is it gives you a hard ceiling on what you can afford to buy. That also helps in your decision-making on which car to choose.

A pre-approved loan also gives you the advantage of not using dealership financing, which is usually more expensive.

Getting pre-approved allows you to focus most of your energy on finding the right car for you and your family. But that does not mean you should go with just any lender you encounter.

Shop for the Best Car Loan

There is no shortage of lenders in the market. So much so that you can surely find a better deal than the first one you see. Use the internet to look for different lenders and contact them to see what they have to offer.

Get an estimate from several lenders. You can call them, send an email, or visit their office. No matter your approach, do not commit right away. Just let them know you are interested and see what they can do for you.

Once you have a couple of estimates, you can compare them side-by-side. Which gives you the best overall deal? What lender can provide you with terms fit for your financial situation?

The next step is to do your research about the lender. Read testimonials and user reviews to determine how well the company works with its customers. You also do not want to end up with a shady lender. It is best to work with known banks and financial institutions.

Consider Both New and Used Cars

When a car rolls off the lot, the value instantly decreases, even if it is a brand-new car. The depreciation rate on vehicles is very high. With that, you may want to consider used cars.

Price is the biggest advantage of a used car. You can get something almost as good as a brand new one in terms of condition for a fraction of the price.

The challenge is choosing. You need to know what signs to look for to determine if a used car is still good. You can bring a mechanic to check the car before buying it. You will never know if the vehicle has underlying issues, like leaks or engine problems, without doing a thorough inspection.

Buying brand-new is still better in ensuring the quality and longevity of the vehicle. But it does not hurt to widen your options by looking at and researching used cars. 

Conclusion

It is easy to get overeager when buying a new car. That could lead you to make all the wrong decisions. You will make mistakes if you do not prepare.

Remember to do your research, know what you want, and stick to the plan to end up with a car you will not regret.

Elastic logistics has become a popular paradigm for warehousing and transportation services as technological improvements and automation solutions become more prevalent throughout the supply chain industry.

Essentially, elastic logistics refers to the ability of businesses to be flexible and agile in the face of the altering demands of the supply chain industry. With this approach in place, an elastic supply chain provides the most flexible response to varying market demands, guaranteeing that operational infrastructure meets market variations cost-effectively at any moment.

So, what exactly is elastic logistics, and what are its benefits?

What is elastic logistics?

Elastic logistics refers to a business approach that is flexible and swift enough to scale up or down in response to changing market demands. This enables supply chain processes to expand or contract in real-time, based on anticipated (and even unanticipated) market events.

Typically, elastic logistics use mechanization processes in both picking and packing, including forcing warehousing and logistics to further make more supply-led decisions. This never-ending supply-driven expansion and contraction of warehouse activities allow for increased reliable financial control. In addition, the model of elastic logistics enables companies to operate supply chains more competently in the wake of market fluctuations.

All in all, the ultimate goal of any business lies in trying to minimize their expenses, control waste and have better control of their inventory requirements. Elastic logistics fall into this category of lean business. But, it also helps bridge gaps unlike many businesses that suffer in warehousing and middle- and last-mile operations.

Benefits of Elastic Logistics

• Optimizes transport routes for faster shipment delivery and increased transport efficiency
• Minimises the practice of over-developing and over-stocking
• Decreases the chances of risk
• Boosts order fulfillment
• Reduces price instability
• Increases efficacy at various checkpoints of supply chain
• Improves customer service

What Businesses need to implement Elastic Logistics?

Here are the key features businesses need to successfully implement the model of elastic logistics:

Artificial Intelligence

AI enables in predicting and estimating costs, risks, and demands. With the help of real-time data analysis, machine learning is one of the finest ways to anticipate the unexpected and determine demand with accurate detail. 

Big Data

Inaccurate or imperfect data can cause big data analysis to be essentially fruitless. This effectively defeats the purpose of elastic logistics as well as its scalability. Therefore, having ample quality, verified and accurate data is vital for business models to work successfully.

Blockchain

Blockchain technology is the best way to store all data. It can store every piece of data in sequence, allowing machine-learning robots to analyze, assist and predict in decision making. Besides, blockchain is emerging as the future of the supply chain, thanks to its ability to improve transparency as well as communication between all chain partners in the supply chain process.

People

An ever-growing fear among people is the probability of losing their jobs as the supply chain moves towards automation. However, the fact is that people continue to remain the most valuable resource companies have when it comes to supply chain improvement.

So, if businesses want an agile supply chain, they will require expert professionals who possess the know-how to make quick and effective decisions while also nurturing a strong working culture. When people work in sync with technology, elastic logistics can exceptionally thrive. 

This type of business model helps create greater sustainability by permitting warehousing and logistics teams to promptly deliver against tight deadlines, while also minimizing cost. Today, as many organizations are slowly heading towards improving their operations, the need to reduce costs and increase functional efficacy is greatly increasing to remain competitive. This is why elastic logistics is becoming a need for modern production.

Air freight shipping is the ideal solution to transport high-value shipments on a commercial air carrier. These goods are usually imported through a logistics company and make a practical option for shipping products of all shapes and sizes. Now, to import a large number of products for organizations or individuals, these freight shipping companies, such as DHL Express arrange and gathers the shipments of those items both globally and locally. DHL freight then takes up the role of the freight shipping carrier for importing those products.

To have a complete understanding of air freight shipping, it is broken down into three different types.

Three different types of air freight shipping

Commercial or passenger planes

Several passenger planes can also carry light cargo and earn a significant amount of money by delivering air freight. The belly of the plane can hold both palletized and containerized freight. Shipping via these passenger planes results in cost-effectiveness as these commercial flights travel to numerous destinations in a day. However, the number of restrictions for such goods is higher on these flights because the freight is being shipped on a passenger plane. Many airlines check the size and weight of such shipments and even the destination in many cases.

Cargo planes

Since cargo planes are designed to carry heavier freight, they can carry a lot more goods than commercial planes can. On average, cargo planes can handle about 26,000 cubic feet of cargo. These planes are not meant for carrying passengers and have fewer restrictions as compared to commercial flights.

DHL’s freight forwarding services provide plenty of options to match your budget, delivery necessities, as well as the weight and size of your freight.

Air charters

Air charters are generally used during emergencies or dire situations. In this type of shipping method, you rent a charter plane to only take your freight to the destination you want it to go to. While this type of freight shipping is the quickest and shortest way to send your goods, it can also incur a significant amount of money. This is because your air freight forwarders don’t have layovers or external interferences in most cases.

Benefits of air freight shipping

It’s safer and secure

Air freight is the most secure and safest option for transporting sensitive goods. So, unless your flight is facing inclement weather, air cargo travel is smoother and safer than sea or truck transport. This results in fewer damages.

It’s the quickest mode of shipping

Unless the weather conditions are unfavorable, air freight is the quickest mode of shipment. In air freight shipping, you have the option to get your shipment at the location you want it to be, including same-day service. It also helps deliver time-sensitive shipments without any delays.

It’s cost-effective

Initially, air freight shipping may appear to be expensive, but there are many factors that make it cost-effective.

• Air freight does not need heavy packaging or the need to be stored in a container.
• The packing costs are lower and container rental isn’t required.
• There is reduced overhead with air freight shipping.
• Since your freight gets expedited, it eliminates the need to warehouse or store it.

It’s accurate

Freight shipping is accurate. That’s because flights depart and directly arrive at the destinations at their set times. There’s no midway stopping to browse a tourist spot. Therefore, it’s easy to check the status of your freight. And since you’re dealing in hours instead of days, the opportunity of errors are lesser.

Things to keep in mind while using air freight

1. Social factors: The social as well as regional factors play a key role in determining the cost of air freight. Conditions such as work strikes, war, agitation, pandemics, and even terrorism activities can reduce the demand and make it costlier for air freight forwarders to work in that area.
2. Working costs: This depends on a number of factors and one important cause being the cost of fuel. If the fuel costs are low and are likely to stay low for some time, then it can majorly affect the working expenses. This cost gets reflected in the delivery rates.
3. Financial factors: Economic factors can directly impact your exports and imports. For instance, in bull economies, the interest rate for air freight shipping can exceed limits which can prompt more significant expenses. 

DHL for one makes sure that your shipment arrives safely and on time regardless of the kind of freight it is.

Whether you are shipping personal effects or a collector vehicle overseas, your shipment will get past a certain check post that will require you to fulfill certain rules and regulations of international shipping. As much as complying with those rules will help expedite your package, learning the costs involved will also save you from spending an extravagant amount of money.

It is because sometimes certain hidden costs can catch you by surprise. Therefore, it is important to plan and do thorough research before shipping.

Here are a few crucial elements to keep in mind if you want to obtain a better idea of where these fees might be applied.

Shipping Related Costs

• When you are shipping with express couriers, you may need to pay the overhead for the fuel surcharge. This varies monthly or weekly depending on the country and is measured as a percentage of the shipping fees. Thus, keep an eye on their fluctuations because they can have a big impact on your bills.
• Selecting value-added services for your shipments, such as insurance in the event of loss or damage or delivery outside of normal business hours can cost a bit more than your ordinary shipping needs.
• Sometimes, certain surcharges are applied depending on the pickup location. This is commonly referred to as a remote region surcharge indicating that these areas are outside of your chosen couriers’ typical collection path.
• Delivery retries, address correction costs, and occasionally even return fees are all areas where you may be charged extra. So, be very careful when you are filing your paperwork to avoid these unnecessary costs.
• When it comes to costs, it is best to go with a logistics and shipping company that is not necessarily the cheapest. When it comes to supply and logistics companies, pricing is directly proportional to the level of quality you should expect. While you do not have to break the bank and go with the most expensive choice, going for the cheapest one does not make sense either!

Package Related Costs

• Not all shipments are of the same nature and may require extra care or handling when shipping overseas. Such is the case when you are shipping fragile or dangerous goods. You will almost always be charged an extra fee, which is commonly calculated as a percentage of the shipping expenses or the value of the items.
• Some couriers charge an additional fee depending on the material and shape of your containers. Therefore, be prepared to spend a little extra in case your courier charges you for the material of the container you are shipping.
• Surcharges may apply if your package exceeds a courier’s specified dimensions or weight. You may be penalised for having an oversized item or a large parcel if the length of your parcel exceeds a certain limit.

Tariff Related Costs

Under-declaring the items of your shipments on the commercial invoice is a mistake you should avoid at all costs. If customs clearing agencies feel that the claimed value is less than the market value, they may request a fresh invoice, resulting in a slew of additional fees. The shipment may remain in customs if they do not get the amended commercial invoice in a timely way, resulting in warehouse storage fees. In addition, the courier may charge you a fee if your items are undervalued.

Now that you’re aware of the hidden costs and extra charges that can occur when shipping overseas, you’ll be able to budget for them appropriately. With DHL Express courier service, you don’t have to worry about the hassle and hidden costs when it comes to international shipping. Additionally, DHL also offers preferential rates to customers that meet the requirements of their business.

Winter has now taken full grip of the country, with many locations reporting snowstorm after snowstorm. Driving in unpredictable weather conditions takes a higher level of skill than summer driving. Drivers must re-learn how to drive in nearly every situation: blizzard, light snow, icy, and sleet/wet conditions. 

Driving in treacherous conditions takes a toll not just on the driver, but also on the car. The below-freezing temperatures can drain the battery and deflate tires. Snow, sleet, and salt can work toward turning small rust spots into large rust spots. Windshield wipers can tear when they glide over ice on the windshield, and brakes are used more frequently, leading to increased wear.

The first step in navigating winter roads like a pro is to be certain you have the best car insurance coverage by gathering car insurance quotes online. With the peace of mind of securing discount auto insurance from a reputable provider and knowledge that you are covered for any winter possibility, you can drive with more confidence while saving money. Ensure your policy accurately reflects the needs of you and your family.

Fully insured? Great, now let’s prepare by following these steps and tips.

Planning Ahead

Before getting started on any winter travel, stock your car with essentials that you might need if you are stranded or get into an accident. 

• Extra blanket(s)
• Hats, gloves, scarves
• Cell phone charger
• Nonperishable snacks
• Sand or kitty litter for traction
• Snow shovel and ice scraper
• Flashlight
• Jumper cables
• First aid kit

Allow Extra Time

Rest assured; it will be necessary for you to take extra time to get to your destination. Whether it is obvious that the weather and road conditions are bad or not, winter is fickle and can throw a mini blizzard your way on a whim. You can get caught in traffic, behind slower vehicles, behind a snowplow or be forced to drive especially slow because of ice. Take 45 minutes for a normal 30-minute drive.

Reduce Your Speed

Not taking road conditions like ice and snow into account can be a fatal mistake. Black ice may be present on bridges and overpasses, and you could very quickly lose control of your car. Losing control is less likely to culminate in an accident if you’re going slow enough to manage and process the startling shift.

Use a Lower Gear

If you start sliding on ice or snow, your vehicle will be less likely to accelerate if you already have it in a lower gear.

Never use Cruise Control

Save the cruise control for the summertime. The only good time to use cruise control is if you’re able to drive at a consistent speed. Situations such as snowy and icy roads, twisting roadways, or even heavy traffic are all times to keep it turned off.

Respect the Snowplow

It can be frustrating to get stuck behind a snowplow with no way around it but try and look at it positively. The road you are driving on is freshly plowed! If you must get around it, make sure there is ample space to do so, and don’t pull in front of the plow too close or quickly, as their blades extend farther than you might realize.

Watch the Forecast

Most activities can be forfeited or rescheduled for another day if the weather is supposed to be lousy. The best thing to do if bad weather is imminent is to stay home, warm and cozy, and enjoy the snow from your easy chair, instead!

Defrost First

The two most common reasons why people get into car accidents are reduced visibility and speed. Cold weather can cover windows in a thick fog, so take the time to warm your car and defrost the windows. This way, you know your visibility is not at all limited.

Know the Braking Basics

If the front wheels lock up, let the steering wheel turn freely, take your foot off the accelerator, and shift into neutral. Slowly begin to steer the vehicle the right way as the vehicle slows down. If the rear wheels lock up, take your foot off of the gas pedal and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front wheels to go. Anti-lock brakes will need steady pressure, while standard brakes require a gentle pump action.

Stay Calm

Cool heads prevail when something goes awry on the road. Don’t make any sudden maneuvers. Let up off the accelerator and take a moment to process the situation so you can make the best next step.