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EV Trucks are Here; PacLease is Ready
February 17, 2023
Over the past several years, there has been a lot of buzz about electric trucks and rightly so, they represent the future. Fifteen states have followed California’s lead and announced a memorandum of understanding that by 2050, any new medium or heavy-duty truck sold or leased in their state must be emission free. California itself has accelerated that to 2040. Those states hope to have 30% of trucks electrified by 2030. With the growing emphasis on emission reduction and the emerging electric truck market, PacLease has invested in a robust charging infrastructure, certified technicians, and Kenworth and Peterbilt medium and heavy-duty electric truck models at our U.S. based PACCAR Leasing company stores. This spring, our electric rental trucks will make their debut in Texas....
New Medium Duty Trucks Spec’d for Your Logistic Needs
January 31, 2023
When it comes to final-mile delivery, many companies grapple with an important decision: Should we do it ourselves, or should we outsource? Some companies chose to outsource to keep costs predictable, albeit at a higher total cost. But, in addition to the increased expense, there is also a bigger issue -- handing over control of logistics to another company. In an ideal situation, a company would have the perfect equipment, at a predictable cost, under its own control. At PacLease, we’re here to help....
What Your New Drivers Need to Know When Reporting Trip and Fuel Tax
September 23, 2022
As new truck drivers enter the industry, it is critical they understand what their responsibilities are before and after every trip they make. In addition to the pre-trip inspection, drivers must record their odometer at the beginning and the end of a trip, as well as any fuel they put into the vehicle. These data points should be recorded and eventually compiled to complete your company’s fuel taxation paperwork for all the states they drive in. Here some tips to consider if you are a new truck driver having to report on your trips and fuel:...
CVSA Brake Safety Week Has Been Announced for August 21-27th
August 02, 2022
This year’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Brake Safety Week is quickly approaching. From August 21st to 27th, inspectors will conduct North American Standard Level I and V Inspections on commercial motor vehicles throughout North America. The focus of this year’s Brake Safety Week is on brake hose/tubing chafing violations. In order to prepare, here’s what you need to know....
The Case for Leasing During Unprecedented Times
July 19, 2022
Parts shortages, inflation, labor shortages, fuel prices, and now rising interest rates have all contributed to creating the perfect storm for all of us working in the supply chain. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, no one could have imagined the onslaught of challenges the industry would face and continue to face. But here we are....
July 10th-16th is CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week
July 07, 2022
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Operation Safe Driver Week has been announced for July 10th-16th, 2022. Law enforcement will be on the lookout for commercial motor vehicle drivers and passenger vehicles adhering to risky driving behavior. Unsafe drivers will be pulled over and cited or given a warning....
Used Trucks Are Still Booming. Is ‘Used’ The New Normal?
June 30, 2022
Still booming. That's a phrase I never thought I'd be writing again when it comes to the global used truck market, but that's exactly what's happening. We've had an unprecedented boom in the second-hand market in recent years. Even with the supply challenges on diesels and the latest surge in oil prices, we're seeing nothing short of a record year for used trucks....
10 Step Brakes and Brake Component Check
May 31, 2022
Brakes and brake components are one of the most essential parts on any truck. Proper brake maintenance and inspections are critical to ensure adequate performance....
Keep Your Drivers Current on Safety and Regulatory Compliance Training
May 13, 2022
With an average of 300 billion miles logged every year, Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) drivers must pass stringent skills and knowledge testing by the State governments responsible for issuing Commercial Drivers Licenses (CDLs). Once a CDL is obtained, a driver must continue to maintain it. A serious traffic violation can affect a CDL holder’s ability to maintain their CDL certification, in addition to disruption of business operations. Nonetheless, Commercial Driving remains a lucrative and in-demand occupation....
What to Look Out for When Buying a Used Truck
April 27, 2022
The market for used commercial trucks is moving quickly. You’re broadening your search and working with a number of vendors, but are there other things you can do to find the right used trucks for your business needs? Here are the top things to look out for while you are shopping for your next used truck....
Help Stop Distracted Driving
April 12, 2022
April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month. Distracted driving is anything that takes the driver’s attention away from focusing on driving. Are your practices helping to keep your fleet and others on the roads safe? Distracted driving impacts thousands of Americans each year. Every driver has the responsibility to avoid distractions while operating a vehicle....
Four Things to Consider When Buying a Used Truck in a Hot Market
March 15, 2022
These are new and strange times that have led us to where we are now. With the onset of the pandemic, followed by the challenges of microchips and parts for vehicles, a large pent-up demand for trucks was inevitable. A scramble to find alternatives to keep business moving is underway… quickly turning used trucks into an even hotter commodity....
Top 3 Reasons When it Makes Sense to Buy Used Trucks
February 16, 2022
When it comes to buying used trucks, you can get a lot of bang for your buck. However, older trucks tend to need more maintenance and have more miles. At PacLease, these trucks have been regularly maintained by some of the best technicians in the industry with many trucks in our aggressive maintenance programs....
What’s Best for Your Fleet? Own, Lease or a Managed Maintenance Program
December 30, 2021
In a recent survey by the National Private Truck Council, there was an open-ended question that asked: “What is the primary reason your company operates a private fleet?” For most, the answer wasn’t surprising. More than 90% responded it was “customer service.” In the same survey, many respondents viewed their fleet as a core competency. This all means running reliable, top-notch equipment and hiring industry-best drivers. The question is, what’s the best way to make it all work?...
It’s Getting Cold Out There! Have You Done Your Winter Maintenance?
November 19, 2021
It’s not unusual for professional truck drivers to experience a range of weather on their routes. It is especially common when running routes through multiple states or provinces. With extreme weather occurrences across North America, it is imperative your drivers are prepared for all types of driving conditions. Planning ahead is essential and making sure your fleet is prepared for winter in regions with severe conditions is a top priority....
Grant Money to Jump-Start Electric Vehicles
October 11, 2021
As environmental impact has become a staple consideration of fleets across North America, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are now the leading solution for zero emission deliveries. Federal and state organizations are using grants to help incentivize early adopters of these zero emission technologies....
Thank a Driver! It’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week
September 09, 2021
Thank a Driver! It’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week...
At PacLease, It Takes a Team
August 30, 2021
Bo Schembechler said it best in his legendary “The Team” speech back in 1983, “No man is more important than the Team.” This holds true today in our world of sales. You may have the greatest group of individual employees, but the organization won’t succeed if they don’t work together. If you don’t know “Bo,” he was the head football coach at the University of Michigan from 1969 to 1989 – compiling a career record of 234-65-8. While sports analogies can be overused in the field of sales, this sentiment seems to fit perfectly with Team Selling. Implementing Team Selling in your organization can increase your chances of closing a deal up to 258% compared to selling solo. So why don’t sales organizations promote the idea of collaboration and “The Team”? Well, at PacLease, problem solving is a team sport and “Team Selling” is at our core....
Five Things to Consider When Building a Fuel Management Program
July 16, 2021
Putting a fuel management program in place can save you money and help your business grow. One of the leading operational expenses of a business that operates fleet vehicles is purchasing fuel. Fuel prices vary widely depending on where your fleet operates and the type of fuel that your fleet consumes. Fleet managers are constantly looking for ways to optimize fuel spend as they realize shaving a penny or two per gallon can offer the business tremendous savings quarter to quarter. Here are five things to consider when thinking about a quality fuel management program....
PacCentral Has You Covered 24/7
April 14, 2021
When your trip doesn’t go as planned, PacCentral is here for you. Established in May of 1999, PACCAR Parts opened the PACCAR Customer Center, also known as PacCentral, to PacLease customers. Located in Renton, Washington, the Customer Center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Offering roadside assistance for all PACCAR customers – including Kenworth, Peterbilt and PacLease. The PACCAR Customer Center has the ability to assist with jump starts, tires, trailers, towing, out of fuel (roadside), mechanical repairs, preventive maintenance services and most other services to drive uptime for our customers....
CVSA International Roadcheck Has Been Announced for May 4 - 6th
March 19, 2021
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck is quickly approaching. CVSA International Roadcheck will have an emphasis on lighting and hours of service. Are your fleet and drivers prepared?...
PacLease National Rental Program Has Fleet Relief When You Need It Most!
February 26, 2021
The PacLease National Rental Program offers nationwide fleets a premium rental support solution with the personalized service of a local customer. As fleets seek ways to become more nimble by incorporating technologies or services to improve their responsiveness, adapt to changes in their operating environment and ultimately improve bottom line revenue, the PacLease National Rental Program is a valuable tool for fleet managers....
PacLease Location Spotlight - PacLease Rental Trucks Keep Peak Season Sugarcane Harvest Rolling
December 16, 2020
Louisiana’s economy is a melting pot of different industries. Tourism in New Orleans, the Mississippi River and its many ports, oil and gas production throughout the state, plus the chemical plants are familiar to many across the country. However, one vital aspect of our state’s economy remains relatively unknown: sugar....
PacLease Location Spotlight - Spec’ing for Ag in the “Salad Bowl of the World”
November 17, 2020
The United States Department of Agriculture states that the agricultural sector accounts for an estimated 1% of the nation’s GDP. The Salinas Valley is the largest region in Monterey County and one of the most productive agriculture valleys in California. Considered the “Salad Bowl of the World”, it is estimated that roughly 70% of the U.S. produce is grown in the Salinas Valley. To keep the world’s largest “salad bowl” moving, we at PacLease help to run and maintain the transportation and logistics of the agriculture industry in Salinas – partnering with our customers to help them maximize their uptime and meet deadlines. Coast Counties Peterbilt PacLease in the Salinas Valley is home to one of our flagship franchises that has been in business since 1949. Coast Counties Peterbilt PacLease has been able to assist companies in the Salinas Valley agriculture industry to feed America....
Productivity: It’s all in the Specs
November 05, 2020
We have a saying at PacLease, and it’s pretty straightforward: “We’re focused on improving your service to your customer.” If we do that, we know we’re doing our job. The simplicity in that statement says a lot. It says we understand that in order for us to be successful as a service partner we have to make our customers successful. And, we do that by understanding your company and understanding your transportation ‘pain points.' We also outline your payloads and routes and see how specs can reduce weight, improve fuel economy, and increase driver satisfaction. Once we have a clear picture of your operation, we go to work to properly spec a truck that can improve your operation....
Disinfecting and Protecting Your Cab Interior
October 01, 2020
Help stop the spread of COVID-19 and prepare for cold and flu season by regularly disinfecting your truck cab. PacLease locations disinfect truck cabs after every service to help reduce the spread of germs. Protect your interior components by following the research of the PACCAR Technical Center (PTC)....
Maximizing Uptime!
August 27, 2020
Here at PacLease we know a thing or two about maintenance. Uptime is critical. Utilizing aggressive preventative maintenance programs with trained technicians and the most up-to-date technology maximizes this uptime....
CVSA Brake Safety Week Has Been Announced for August 23-29th
August 03, 2020
Brake Safety Week is coming up. To help your fleet prepare, here are a few points on brake system safety. Starting August 23rd, law enforcement agencies across North America will be conducting focused Brake System Inspections for Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Brake Safety Week....
Tires, Tires, Tires!
July 22, 2020
Is tire management a surprise in the transportation industry? Unfortunately, some fleets have a reactive, rather than proactive, approach when it comes to their tires. Their focus is on their core business, until they find themselves on the side of the road deflated with a breakdown. With the cost of tires being around $0.035 to $0.04 per mile, tire management is a must! And the five major components of an effective Tire Management Program are tire analytics, selection of a tire vendor, tire standardization, tire maintenance, and management of the casing program....
Are Your Drivers Prepared for the CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week – July 2020?
July 09, 2020
The CVSA has confirmed that Operation Safe Driver Week will be held July 12-18th. This year’s point of emphasis is the driver requirements category of a roadside inspection. Anytime your truck is pulled off the road for inspection violations, those are lost dollars that may have been prevented. We know how important it is to minimize downtime, and that drives us to keep your PacLease trucks in proper condition so that you pass roadside inspections with flying colors....
Truck Spec’ing – Get the Most Out of Your Liquid Haul
June 30, 2020
Spec’ing vehicles is a very complicated process, especially in a liquid bulk application. With new and improved products being introduced on a regular basis it is important to look at your spec with a fresh eye. Repeating the same spec year after year will not allow you to be as efficient as you should be. Whenever the conversation turns to specs for liquid bulk carriers - weight is the hot topic. Every pound of payload is added profitability. The more you move – the more you make. However, it is important to spec a balance of lightweight, performance, drivability and durability. PACCAR products are designed and built with the ability spec customized lightweight applications with durability in mind....
Keeping Your Truck Running at Peak Performance with PACCAR Genuine Parts
June 15, 2020
PacLease knows that vehicle maintenance is one of the most critical components to a successfully managed fleet. For our worldwide network comprised of over 40,000 vehicles, we’ve relied on our aggressive preventative maintenance programs, utilizing the most up to date technology and trained technicians to ensure your fleet remains in reliable and working condition with maximum up time throughout the term of the lease. Equally important in our ability to do this, are the parts that we use to maintain your vehicle. Which is why PacLease vehicles, are maintained with PACCAR Genuine parts....
New FMCSA Clearinghouse Rules Take Effect January 2020: Are You Prepared?
December 17, 2019
There's a new “Clearinghouse” you need to know about. And, it’s not magazines or million dollar sweepstakes. This one is specific to the trucking industry, and it’s huge. It’s the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse and it will support the DOT Strategic Goal of Safety when it goes live this January by ensuring drivers are qualified to operate trucks and buses. The new database, established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), will contain information pertaining to violations of the DOT’s controlled substances drug and alcohol testing program for holders of CDLs....
Need to Rent a Truck? PacLease Has You Covered.
October 22, 2019
For some the name PacLease is synonymous with full service commercial truck leasing, but that’s only one aspect of our business and story. PacLease Truck Rental and Leasing is capable of so much more. The “rental” part of our name can be easily over looked, but…did you know that PacLease offers local delivery trucks, as well as late model, high-quality Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks for regional and national use? From growth opportunities resulting from fleet expansion, or the seasonal flux that has you scrambling for extra trucks, PacLease Truck Rental and Leasing provides your fleet with relief when you need it most....
Keeping Your Fleet Cool in the Summer Heat
August 01, 2019
Summer is upon us in full force. It’s that time of the year when many people are out enjoying summer BBQ’s, weekend outings, and outdoor family fun. As the roadways significantly warm up over the summer months and become busier with summer travelers and road construction projects, it’s just as important to prepare and maintain your fleet equipment for summer driving as it is to winterize your fleet in the winter....
Managing Maintenance in the New Era of Technology
June 06, 2019
Customers deserve a superior leasing experience that allows tailoring your truck specs to your business needs with your business in mind. PacLease works with its customers to custom spec their vehicles. It’s the difference between “off-the-shelf” and a menu loaded with options. And that means you get a truck built specifically for the type of cargo, delivery areas, and duty cycle you require....
Are You Prepared for the CVSA International Roadcheck?
May 22, 2019
As we enter into summer, it is time to prepare for the CVSA International Roadchecks being held June 4th - 6th that is if you have not already been busy preparing your fleet. According to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, the roadside inspection program will inspect 17 commercial vehicles a minute over the 72-hour period across North America, which will equate to over 73,000 commercial vehicles. Will your truck be one of them? This international roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world and covers the United States, Canada, and Mexico....
Dealing with Record Cold in the Midwest
March 28, 2019
When the brutal temps hit, our company store in Hickory Hills sent out warnings to all of our customers about the dangers of operating equipment in this extreme cold. We knew that if they experienced any issues on the road, the tow companies would all be extremely busy trying to keep up with the volume of calls and stranded motorists. We informed them that at these temperatures, even treating your fuel with additive would not be sufficient and having a truck stall out and not re-start could be life threating for the driver....
Are You Sure Your Fleet is Adequately Insured?
February 26, 2019
Whether we like it or hate it, insurance coverage is a crucial component of operating a commercial fleet of trucks. Insurance regulations exist to protect you, your business, your assets, your customers, your drivers, and anyone else involved in any potential incident. PacLease knows that having proper insurance coverage is a measure of security for your fleet and a small part of the cost of keeping your business running....
Where Are We Going? Trends in Tolling for Commercial Fleets
February 12, 2019
Most trucking industry professionals and infrastructure experts agree that tolling isn’t going anywhere and will have an ongoing impact on commercial fleet operations across the country....
Is Your Cargo Secure?
January 08, 2019
It’s one of those things that you think to yourself “it’ll never happen to us,” and when it does, it causes all sorts of headaches. Properly securing your trailer’s load, whether it’s a dry van, reefer or flatbed, is a bigger issue than most people think....
Winter is Here: Be Prepared
December 28, 2018
The longest days of the year are here. And so are the toughest driving conditions – brought to you by inclement and below freezing weather. Are your drivers and trucks ready for the elements? Here are my top tips to keep your drivers and trucks running safely....
America's Infrastructure: Funding via Proposed Fuel Tax
October 23, 2018
As the need to repair the ageing infrastructure in the U.S. becomes imminent, legislators are proposing new bills and reforms to fund much needed projects. One potential source for funding is increased state fuel taxes. Many business groups support the proposed tax, as the funds will finance projects that will improve road conditions; making driving more comfortable, improving driving time, and reducing service costs caused by adverse road conditions....
Leasing for Tanker Truck Operations
September 26, 2018
When it comes to leasing there are many benefits to consider, and when you are in a complex industry such as tank operations, the benefits of leasing can help drive critical business efficiencies....
How Will Increased Tolling Affect Fleet Stability?
August 29, 2018
If you’re reading the trade journals – even newspapers – you’re no doubt noticing articles about the infrastructure. What will happen? And, what about toll roads -- will they be privatized? What does this mean for the transportation industry?...
CVSA Brake Safety Week
August 16, 2018
The focus of CVSA’s Brake Safety Week will be to conduct brake system inspections on large trucks and buses throughout North America to identify out-of-adjustment brakes and brake-system violations. Inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level IV Inspection, a Special Inspection focusing on large bus and truck brakes....
Using Data For Better Fleet Management
August 14, 2018
With all the changes in truck technology, there is data coming in from virtually every angle. How do you make sense of it all and how can you put the information to work for you?...
Truck Orders on Fire. What About Rentals?
August 10, 2018
One look at the July 16 cover story in Transport Topics says it all. “Class 8 Orders Soar 133%” June orders for heavy trucks hit 42,000 units, up from 18,104 a year earlier. That means a backlog for up to six months for those buying new trucks. Happily, for those wanting to get into new Peterbilt or Kenworth trucks through a full-service lease with PacLease, your wait isn’t near as long. PacLease has guaranteed build placeholders, which means slots are already saved, and trucks can be delivered in a shorter period of time....