Susie Jones
Noticias • 5 min leer

Cuentos de camioneros: historias de la carretera

Creado: 22/08/2024

Actualizado: 22/08/2024

Queremos arrojar luz sobre la comunidad del transporte por carretera y conocer a las personas que están al volante.

Desde helicópteros que aterrizan delante de sus camiones hasta coches que circulan por el lado equivocado de la autopista, conozca mejor a los conductores que le entregan sus mercancías.

Alan

Alan conduce desde hace 23 años y decidió unirse al sector después de escuchar las canciones de Ally Thomson sobre conducción de camiones. Cuando se le pregunta qué es lo que más le gusta del trabajo, afirma que es "la soledad que aporta la conducción de camiones: hay una separación total de la vida doméstica."

Los camiones Volvo son sus favoritos, ya que viaja por todo el Reino Unido transportando mercancías de Amazon. Dice que ha transportado montones de productos interesantes, "la elección es ilimitada, basta con pensar en cualquier cosa que venda Amazon".

Para los conductores que aparcan por la noche, entretenerse durante el tiempo de inactividad es difícil. Sin embargo, los conductores experimentados como Alan han conseguido que su rutina nocturna sea perfecta. Afirma que "le gusta ver Sky TV a través del iPad" cuando está aparcado por la noche.

Para los conductores que luchan por mantenerse entretenidos al volante, hemos recopilado una lista de formas de evitar que el aburrimiento haga acto de presencia.

Aunque las largas horas en la carretera pueden parecer monótonas para muchos, Alan explica que siempre hay algo que le mantiene alerta.

"Creo que lo más loco que he visto conduciendo es un helicóptero aterrizando justo delante de mí", explica, muy lejos de la monótona reputación que ha envuelto al sector durante décadas.

Con 23 años de experiencia en el sector a sus espaldas, Alan nos ofrece algunos consejos que mantendrán tus perlas blancas frescas durante tus viajes.

Explica que "el consejo que daría a cualquiera que se inicie en el sector es que recuerde siempre tener el cepillo de dientes cargado".

Richard

Hace 36 años, Richard empezó su carrera en el sector del transporte y nunca miró atrás. Le picó el gusanillo de conducir cuando se unió a sus dos hermanos mayores para ayudar a repartir mercancías por todo el Reino Unido.

"Me encanta coger una carga y ponerme en marcha. Puedo decidir cuándo hago una pausa y dónde aparco. Estar en la carretera y viajar por todo el Reino Unido es genial", explica.

Durante su carrera, la vida en la carretera le ha llevado hasta Milán (Italia), un viaje agotador incluso para los conductores más experimentados. Cuando se le pregunta cómo se entretiene en sus viajes, afirma: "Me gusta escuchar música y ver películas en los ratos muertos."

¿El mejor camión para hacerlo? "Tiene que ser un Scania Next Generation 450S", afirma.

Para Richard, 30 años en el sector no han estado exentos de historias disparatadas y entregas insólitas: "He visto un coche ir en sentido contrario por una autopista, saliendo de una vía de servicio. Lo más interesante que he tenido en la parte trasera del camión es una carroza del desfile de San Wilfred".

Aunque le sigue encantando la carretera, Richard afirma que a veces tiene un precio. Ofrece una gran perspectiva de la realidad de esta profesión y consejos para quienes quieran unirse al sector.

"Piensa muy bien si ésta es la carrera adecuada para ti. Prepárate para largas jornadas y para perderte mucha vida familiar".

Sean

Crecer en una familia de conductores significa que Sean lleva el transporte por carretera en la sangre, y hace 20 años se puso al volante y siguió su carrera en el sector del transporte.

El trabajo tiene muchas ventajas, pero a Sean lo que más le gusta es la libertad que le ofrece. Esta libertad le ha llevado hasta Escocia para realizar un servicio cada seis semanas. En esos largos viajes, llamar por teléfono a los amigos y ver la televisión son su fuente de entretenimiento.

Además, las paradas de camiones han desempeñado un papel fundamental para Sean a la hora de combatir el aislamiento que supone conducir. A menudo un hervidero de actividad, las paradas de camiones permiten a Sean ponerse al día con sus amigos en sus viajes.

Estas paradas en boxes son la oportunidad perfecta para escuchar las locas historias de otros camioneros. Al igual que Richard, lo más extraño que Sean ha visto en sus viajes ha sido "un coche que iba en dirección contraria por una autopista en la oscuridad", una historia demasiado común entre la comunidad de camioneros.

Un DAF XF 530 es el camión elegido por Sean para transportar materiales de construcción por todo el Reino Unido. Aconseja a cualquiera que busque una carrera en el transporte por camión que "¡simplemente vaya a por ello!".

Dave

Dave lleva 30 años conduciendo camiones y ha viajado hasta Dinamarca y España. Cuando no está viajando en su camión favorito, un Volvo FH, le gusta ver telenovelas en la comodidad de su cabina.

"El comportamiento de algunos conductores me ha dado algunas historias locas que contar", explica. Sin embargo, cuando le preguntamos qué es lo más interesante que ha llevado en la parte trasera de su camión, Dave no nos dice nada: "es un secreto", afirma.

Después de 30 años transportando mercancías, Dave ha aprendido algunas cosas sobre el mundo del transporte. Ofrece un gran consejo a quienes buscan iniciar su carrera en el sector: "asegúrate de especializarte en algo".

Alastair

Relativamente nuevo en el sector, Alastair decidió dedicarse a la conducción de camiones para mantenerse ocupado tras su jubilación. Con cinco años a sus espaldas, lo que más le gusta es la variedad de la profesión.

Durante este tiempo, Alastair ha podido viajar por todo el Reino Unido y Europa: "He viajado a Inverness, Copenhague, Lisboa, Budapest y Roma", afirma.

Para no aburrirse, a Alastair le gusta escuchar "Radio 4, LBC y 5 Live".

Viajando por Europa, ha sido testigo de comportamientos inusuales por parte de otros usuarios de la carretera. Sin embargo, fue más cerca de casa, donde tuvo que maniobrar con su camión a través de "las manifestaciones de Londres". Fue probablemente lo más loco que he vivido", explica.

Para los fans de 007, Alastair comparte el momento en que tuvo que transportar algunos objetos de alto secreto.

"Lo más interesante que he tenido en la parte trasera del camión serían probablemente objetos de exposición de James Bond", afirma.

Aunque Alastair no lleva mucho tiempo en este sector, tiene algunas palabras para los nuevos.

"Un consejo que daría a alguien que esté pensando en incorporarse al mundo del transporte es que mantenga la calma".

Sean V

El amor de Sean por la carretera se remonta a las muchas vacaciones de verano que pasó con su padre viajando en su camión. Después de 30 años conduciendo, su amor por la carretera sigue creciendo.

"Lo que más me gusta de este trabajo es ver todos los sitios bonitos del Reino Unido y Europa", explica. Es un trabajo que le ha llevado a varios destinos: Roma es el más lejano al que ha viajado.

Cuando no está explorando los pueblos y ciudades, a Sean le gusta entretenerse viendo la tele, utilizando su iPad y, hasta hace poco, jugando en la comodidad de su propio taxi.

¿Lo más loco que ha visto en la carretera?

Desgraciadamente, Sean es otro de los testigos de un espectáculo demasiado habitual entre los camioneros: "un coche circulando en sentido contrario por la autopista", explica.

Durante los 30 años de carrera de Sean, afirma que los camiones DAF han sido sus favoritos para conducir, y que el artículo más interesante que ha transportado ha sido "equipo médico especializado".

El amor de Sean por el sector supera algunos de los aspectos negativos del trabajo. Sin embargo, para aquellos que quieran iniciar su carrera en el sector del transporte, Sean tiene estas sabias palabras:

"Si está pensando en incorporarse al sector, espere hacer muchas horas".

Regístrate hoy en SNAP

SNAP le facilita la vida conectándole con nuestra amplia red de servicios de transporte por carretera. Inscríbase hoy mismo

Compartir con

Otros también leen...

Header Image

viernes 08 noviembre 2024 • Noticias

DART CHARGE ACCOUNT - SIMPLIFIQUE SUS PAGOS

Miranda Blake

Understanding the intricacies of the Dart Charge system is essential to ensure a seamless and cost-effective experience when using the Dartford Crossing. Familiarising yourself with the payment options, account management, and potential pitfalls can save you from unnecessary fines and headaches. The Dartford Crossing, a vital aspect for commercial traffic, is managed by a sophisticated electronic payment system known as the Dart Charge. This innovative system was introduced to enhance the efficiency of toll collection, eliminating the need for traditional toll booths and enabling drivers to pre-pay or pay online by the end of the day.Wondering what exactly the Dart Charge is? It refers to the payment method used for the Dartford Crossing. The system was implemented to improve traffic flow and provide a more convenient payment experience for users.Drivers have three primary options when it comes to paying the Dart Charge:1. Customers can set up a pre-pay account, which offers automated billing and a discounted crossing rate. Such a hassle-free approach ensures that payments are made seamlessly, with the account being automatically debited for each crossing. For those who don't have a pre-pay account, the option to pay online, by phone, or at Payzone retail outlets is available. Payments can be made in advance or by midnight the following day. The Dartford Crossing is free to use between the hours of 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, providing a cost-effective option for nighttime journeys.Curious as to what the Dart Charge rates are? These vary depending on the vehicle class and whether the customer has a pre-pay account or is making a one-off payment. Here’s a breakdown of the current charges:You can also .Maintaining your Dart Charge account is crucial for avoiding fines and streamlining your crossings. Let’s explore the key aspects of account management.Establishing a Dart Charge account is a straightforward process. Customers can visit the , click "Start now," and select the "Sign in or set up a Dart Charge account" option. Alternatively, they can open a pre-pay account by downloading and submitting an application form.Accessing your Dart Charge account requires the email address registered on the account. If you've forgotten your password, the link on the sign-in page will guide you through the process of creating a new one.Changing your name, address, or the vehicle registration numbers associated with your account can be done by logging into your Dart Charge account, navigating to the "Account management" and "Profile" or "Vehicle management" sections, and making the necessary updates.Customers can review their crossing history and account statements by logging into their Dart Charge account. This feature allows you to track your usage and ensure that all payments have been properly recorded.If your Dart Charge account becomes inactive due to a lack of vehicle registration, valid payment method, or recent crossings, you can reactivate it by addressing the underlying issue. Similarly, a suspended account can be unsuspended by topping up the balance or making payments for any outstanding crossings.When it’s time to close your Dart Charge account, you can do so by logging in, navigating to the "Account management" section, and selecting the "Close account" option. Any remaining balance will be refunded using the same payment method.SNAP Account offers a convenient solution, providing several benefits for drivers and .The system automatically handles the payment for each crossing, eliminating the need to remember to pay or deal with Dart Charge directly.You’ll never receive a charge for late payment. This helps avoid potential fines or penalties associated with missed or late payments, providing peace of mind.We simplify your financial management by including the Dartford Crossing transactions on the same invoice as your other SNAP Account activities. Such consolidation makes it easier to track and manage your expenses.By automating the payment process, we save drivers valuable time. There’s no need to stop and make individual payments or remember to pay by midnight the following day, as is required when paying directly through the government's Dart Charge system.Our Dartford Crossing service is part of a broader ecosystem of road transport services. This integration allows users to manage multiple aspects of their journey, including parking, washing, and fueling, through a single platform.For businesses managing multiple vehicles, we provide an efficient way to control and monitor the Dartford Crossing expenses. The consolidated billing and automated payment system helps streamline accounting processes and reduce the administrative burden associated with managing individual crossings. By leveraging SNAP Account for the Dartford Crossing payments, drivers and fleet operators can enjoy a more efficient, reliable, and stress-free experience when using this crucial transport link.Want to learn more about how to save money on the road? Check out our article on along with our .

Header Image

viernes 01 noviembre 2024 • Noticias

ESTUDIO DE CASO: TWV PARK

Miranda Blake

Situated just 60 minutes from Calais is TWV Park, a haven for truckers looking for a restful night’s sleep. With an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google, TWV has been described by its customers as an oasis and a great place to park. The site offers a range of services including, showers, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 video surveillance. Emilie, from TWV Park, tells us a bit more. "We offer our customers all the comforts for drivers to rest peacefully. Bicycles are available to rent, and we host entertainment such as football match broadcasts, competitions, and music concerts. Nearby is a shopping centre, and a water sports centre for extra activities outside of TWV." Providing drivers with a wide range of facilities and entertainment is not the only thing the truck park does incredibly well. The safety and security of TWV is something the team has made great progress on throughout the years. "TWV is a secure car park with ESPORG Gold certification. The site has 24/7 security guards, fences, and 80 on-site cameras. All of which are monitored." Emilie explains. Back in June 2023, the site announced its Secure Truck Park project – a project supported by the European Co-Funding programme. This has enabled TWV Park to take further security measures to ensure truck drivers and their cargo safe. Truck stops play a pivotal role in providing a space for truck drivers who have spent long hours on the road something Emilie and the team are conscious of, when making decisions about the truck park. "To improve well-being, truck drivers need safety and comfort from a truck park," states Emilie. TWV does this particularly well when you look at the amount of choice and variety for drivers at the site. Emilie explains the truck park offers "kitchens with all the appliances, food trucks, and brasserie-style on-site meals." She states that other comforts, such as "sanitary facilities, phone charging access, and air-conditioning," are also available. TWV was one of the stops on our Truckpark Tour in 2023 a ten-stop tour throughout the UK and Europe to give back to the tireless truck-driving community. Emilie explained why they wanted to be a part of it. "When SNAP came to us about the tour, we thought it was a great idea to offer the drivers an extra activity in the park." The teams at SNAP and TWV were kept busy throughout the day, handing out free merchandise and having crucial conversations with drivers. "The event went really well, and the drivers were happy to see SNAP and the team at TWV. The drivers enjoyed the entertainment and goodies on offer and appreciated getting to have a chat," states Emilie. By joining SNAP, you'll put your location in front of 190,000 drivers and over 9,000 fleets. For truck stops like TWV, who are constantly striving to grow their business, SNAP provides the opportunity to do so. "We had no hesitations about joining SNAP and found the setup process easy. Since joining, we have had good communication with the SNAP team," says Emilie. To improve your profitability and optimise your site operations, head to .

Header Image

viernes 25 octubre 2024 • Noticias

DIRECTIVA SOBRE EL TIEMPO DE TRABAJO DE LOS CONDUCTORES: GUÍA PARA CAMIONEROS

Miranda Blake

As a lorry driver in the UK, it’s crucial to have a firm grasp of the complex regulations surrounding driver working hours and rest periods. The Drivers’ Working Time Directive (WTD), also known as the Road Transport Directive, is a set of rules that governs the maximum hours a driver can work, the mandatory breaks they must take, and the required rest periods they must observe. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and even the immobilisation of your vehicle.The Drivers’ Working Time Directive is a European Union legislation that aims to ensure the safety of all road users by preventing fatigue-related accidents. apply to those driving vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, regardless of whether the individual operates within the UK or across the EU.Under the WTD, truck drivers in the UK are subject to a daily driving cap of 9 hours, which can be increased to 10 hours a maximum of twice per week. After 4.5 hours of continuous or intermittent driving, drivers must take a break of at least 45 minutes. Alternatively, they can opt for a split break, where the first is at least 15 minutes, followed by a second of at least 30 minutes.There’s a weekly driving limit for UK lorry drivers, which is 56 hours, while the fortnightly cap is 90 hours. This means that if a driver clocks 56 hours in 1 week, they can only work for 34 hours the following week to ensure they do not go over the 90-hour fortnightly limit.In addition to the driving time restrictions, the WTD also imposes limits on the total number of hours a driver can work per week. Average weekly working time, including both driving and non-driving tasks, must not surpass 48 hours, calculated over a 17-week or 26-week reference period. Maximum working time in a single week is 60 hours, provided the 48-hour average is not exceeded.The WTD requires to take a daily rest period of at least 11 consecutive hours, which can be split into 2 periods with the first being at least 3 hours long. Drivers can also opt for a reduced daily rest period of nine hours, but this can only be done up to three times per week. Additionally, a weekly rest period of at least 45 hours is mandatory, although this can be lowered to 24 hours once in a 2-week period.While the WTD applies to the majority of UK lorry drivers, there are certain exceptions that may apply in specific circumstances. For example, those who do not drive more than 10 times within a 26-week period or 15 times within a timeframe exceeding 26 weeks may not be required to monitor their working time directive.Failing to adhere to the WTD can have serious consequences for both drivers and . Drivers caught in breach of the regulations can face fines of up to £1,500, and if they break the rules more than 5 times in 28 days, they may be taken to court and have their vehicle immobilised.For fleet operators, the onus is on maintaining compliance throughout the entire fleet. Neglecting to implement sufficient measures to monitor and enforce the WTD can result in the DVSA issuing a notice to improve, and in extreme cases, a requirement to cease operations until the issues are resolved.To effectively manage driver working hours and ensure compliance with the WTD, fleet operators should consider investing in tachograph-integrated fleet management solutions. These purpose-built technologies allow for efficient monitoring of driver behaviour and automatic logging of driving and working time data, making it virtually impossible for non-compliance to go unnoticed.By partnering with a trusted provider like , fleet operators can leverage cutting-edge fleet management tools and gain access to a comprehensive network of service partners, making sure that their drivers have the support they need to stay compliant and safe on the road.There’s also the in the UK to consider. It’s proving to be a big problem within the industry. The industry has seen a drop in HGV drivers – the pandemic delayed 30,000 tests for new drivers, and Brexit hit fleet companies hard – with many European truck drivers leaving the UK. A 2023 report from SNAP suggests the sector could reach a 'tipping point' in the next 10-15 years. It may prove that the Drivers’ Working Time Directive is just what the industry needs to make the profession desirable again and provide better balance for drivers. Learn more about what can be done to tackle the driver shortage by .