Does bad weather impact truck deliveries? It certainly can, but Evan makes a way!
Logistics in freight transportation is a complex subject involving a myriad of factors that may or may not be in the trucker’s control. No matter how much planning goes into a truck delivery, some delays are possible. In fact, the U.S. estimates a loss of over 32 billion hours a year in traffic overall due to poor weather. Let’s take a look at how bad weather affects trucking and particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Heat of Summer
You might be surprised to learn how heat can delay transportation, but it does. An extreme of any form of weather can cause delays. The high heat can affect the pavement’s friction and visibility, as highway mirages can appear. Heat can also affect the quality of the freight and threaten damage, but refrigerated trucks are available for especially perishable goods.
Heavy Rain
Although it is the least uncommon and seemingly threatening of many weather phenomena, heavy rain accounts for the most vehicle crashes in the U.S., according to data provided by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA.) Trucks must slow down below the speed limit to avoid hydroplaning or not seeing a vehicle on the road.
Strong Winds
Strong winds can include merely windy weather to the effects of hurricanes. Maryland can have very high winds, so much so that the Chesapeake Bay Bridge can close due to them. Strong winds can be powerful enough to tip over semi-trucks; in the Mid-Atlantic region, this is unlikely but still a possibility.
Fog
If you get into hillier regions like Pennsylvania or drive after a heavy rain, you might end up driving through fog. It is hard to see past some distance in front of, behind, or around you. Trucks take more time to brake, and so truckers need to slow down enough to make the best decisions in these low-visibility conditions.
Hurricanes and Tornadoes
Of course, the Mid-Atlantic has its fair share of hurricanes and even tornadoes. The region risks at least one hurricane a year, and you never know if a tornado will pop up in parts of southern Maryland. Severe weather could possibly cause transportation to cease altogether temporarily.
Don’t Let Bad Weather Delay Your Freight Transportation
The show must go on, and truckers must complete their mission to supply hospitals, grocery stores, retail centers, warehouses, and more with valuable products. A smart logistics plan will account for the weather and help you plan ahead, and a trucking company like Evan Transportation will help deliver your freight on time.
For All Your Trucking Needs
Follow us here at Evan Transportation to get more updates on driving tips and the trucking industry. Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries, benefits, and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.