Truckers Strike April 1, 2008

[freightmaster]

Keep them trucks shut down and stand up for your fellow Americans!

 

[Flatbedpete]

We are still sitting until Monday

 

[HPI_Savage25]

Where I work at some of the truckers are not moving from the plant until Monday.

 

[gearjammer]

This site was totally buzzing on Mon., Tues., & Wed.. Here it is Thurs. and it is as dead as I have ever seen it. Please don't tell me that everyone has given up already. I am wondering what is going on. The media has backed off some, and it's starting to look like the lack of media has everyone giving up, getting quiet, and going back to work. I sure hope I'm wrong. Someone please show me that I'm wrong. Show me that this hasn't all been a waste of time and effort. We can't stop now. We need to be hyping things up and keep the ball rolling. Don't let things go quiet, if you do it will all dye and nothing will have been gained. Stand Up And Make Some Noise. Stand Up For Your Families !!![/quote

believe me this was no wast of time, if nothing else it has shown that you CAN get truckers to agree on issues, it got media attention not just nationwide but worldwide, the politicians are asking what needs to be done, it showed that the man and woman on the street overwhelmingly understand and support our actions, its put on notice the people that are ripping off the truckers that we are fed up with it, and I know for a fact that all these small unorganized groups that accomplished so much this week are now talking to each other and ORGANIZING, not bad for a weeks worth of work wouldn't you say!!!!

 

[IIronman]

This site was totally buzzing on Mon., Tues., & Wed.. Here it is Thurs. and it is as dead as I have ever seen it. Please don't tell me that everyone has given up already. I am wondering what is going on. The media has backed off some, and it's starting to look like the lack of media has everyone giving up, getting quiet, and going back to work. I sure hope I'm wrong. Someone please show me that I'm wrong. Show me that this hasn't all been a waste of time and effort. We can't stop now. We need to be hyping things up and keep the ball rolling. Don't let things go quiet, if you do it will all dye and nothing will have been gained. Stand Up And Make Some Noise. Stand Up For Your Families !!![/quote

believe me this was no wast of time, if nothing else it has shown that you CAN get truckers to agree on issues, it got media attention not just nationwide but worldwide, the politicians are asking what needs to be done, it showed that the man and woman on the street overwhelmingly understand and support our actions, its put on notice the people that are ripping off the truckers that we are fed up with it, and I know for a fact that all these small unorganized groups that accomplished so much this week are now talking to each other and ORGANIZING, not bad for a weeks worth of work wouldn't you say!!!!

 

[Tn. Trucker]

This site was totally buzzing on Mon., Tues., & Wed.. Here it is Thurs. and it is as dead as I have ever seen it. Please don't tell me that everyone has given up already. I am wondering what is going on. The media has backed off some, and it's starting to look like the lack of media has everyone giving up, getting quiet, and going back to work. I sure hope I'm wrong. Someone please show me that I'm wrong. Show me that this hasn't all been a waste of time and effort. We can't stop now. We need to be hyping things up and keep the ball rolling. Don't let things go quiet, if you do it will all dye and nothing will have been gained. Stand Up And Make Some Noise. Stand Up For Your Families !!!

It died down when the media died down. There needs to be more noise, more picketing, thats what keeps the media involved and the more people see other people in other states involved then people become brave. The biggest problem i have seen in talking to drivers is that they arre afraid that their going to be the only ones and you have no leverage if you don't have enough people participating. That's what happened in Nashville, Tn. on TUES. My husbands company drivers striked but the other container companies did not so all that happened was the other container companies hauled their freight. BUT they put a hurt on their company for that day.

 

[taebozz]

thank you Truckers for the Lone Star State

:tiphat: I'm from San Antonio, Texas and YES, the word has spread like wild fire. Everyone is stalking up on water, food, and Gas because in Texas "we the people" believe in and support the Truckers. My hat goes off to you guys and I will continue to support and pray you

FYI - This thread was given the title "strike" because that is what a large number of truckers are looking for. Make no mistake, this isn't a strike, this isn't being led by us or any individual person. It is being led by concerned truckers from all over the Country.

I am sure many of you already know about this, or maybe not. But in the interest of getting information out to those who want to be informed about what is going on, there is another movement being pushed on the CB Radio regarding Truckers shutting their rigs down on April 1st, in protest of the $4.00 Dollar per gallon fuel costs. This is commonly being called a "Fuel Shut Down".

We are half way through March, and I just heard about it a couple days ago, so unless those who are in charge of this, whoever they may be, really get busy in the next week or two, I don't expect to see much from it.

With this "shutdown", much like every other one that grows legs on the CB, it is done with good intentions, but unfortunately it is being done on short notice, and being done most likely without the support of the majority of the trucking industry. A huge portion of the trucking industry is new drivers, who are company drivers, and most of them don't have a good understanding about what these fuel prices are doing to the individual owner-operator, as well as the smaller multi-truck companies.

While I don't think this will do any good, I do applaud those who's efforts are genuine in this. I wish them the best of luck in achieving their goal, but the bottom line is only a small percentage of drivers out there listen to the CB these days, and many of those have it turned off until they run into traffic congestion.

Another problem with the CB rants regarding these shutdowns is that as soon as someone speaks up that doesn't support the idea of a shutdown, rather than being able to have a productive discussion on why it is happening, it quickly turns into namecalling, and then a mini-CB war between Owner Operators and Company Drivers. Once again, same crap, different month.

For those who do read trucking forums, and support having a shutdown, I have a proposal for you:
Rather than crusade on the CB radio to organize a shutdown of the trucking industry, and expect it to happen in a matter of weeks, get out there and direct all those you can to trucking forums, where everyone can communicate in a less combative environment. It doesn't have to be this forum, but make sure it is a forum where those who are behind the scenes are there to try to truly make a difference in the trucking industry, not a place where the goal seems to be nothing other than to provide a medium for whining and bashing companies.

On a forum, such as this one, you become more accountable for your actions, and less likely to spout off non-truths, because what you say is documented, and can be verified. It helps stop false rumors before they run rampant like you see happen on a daily basis with the CB.

Also, the new wave of people coming into the trucking industry using forums like this one to learn about the industry before getting into it. In addition, they are using trucking forums to communicate with other truck drivers. The use of message boards like these will only continue to increase, so take advantage of them.

Back to the "April Trucker Shutdown"

I participated in the last shutdown, which was also on very short notice. Just like this one, I heard about it shortly before it actually happened, just like everyone else. I hope those who participate see something positive from it, but I doubt it will happen.

• Educate
• Plan
• Act

Those three steps are just a minimal outline of what needs to be done before something like this will ever succeed.

Edit (3/18/08)... Since originally posting this thread, many dates for the shutdown have come up, and some truckers have already shutdown their rigs.

 

[Tn. Trucker]

There are more drivers who won't participate in the strike than are willing. Thats the whole problem because people are afraid. I think we should try a new approach with somethinkg drivers would be comfortable with. 1st. is that all drivers put a sign on their truck, i think they should all say the same thing to show a united front ,something to the effect of "ALL AMERICANS SHOULD PROTEST HIGH FUEL PRICES. " that way we will have support from the american public. 2nd. we could try to set up a date and time for a convoy to go by EVERY STATE CAPITOL and make some noise and get media attention. Things like these i think will get a better response because more people will be willing as long as their job is not in jeapordy and their not asked to loose days at a time off from work. Lets use our heads we're not stupid.

 

[Ahrzhule]

Reality Check

Hi all. This past week has been frustrating. I've been listening to radio and TV reports and most of what I am hearing are complaints of our government not doing anything for us with regard to high fuel prices. Now I know that the government and politics in general are often maddening and frustrating. But my suggestion is for those affected to research what they are talking about before making "shoot from the hip" and "whatever pops into your head" comments. Enough "take our country back" comments and the like and start making educated and objective statements so people will take us seriously.

Go on the web and research current world oil production and consumption and read in depth the nature of economics and the law of supply and demand. Currently the world is producing about 86 million barrels of oil per day. The U.S. is consuming about 1/5 of this. As the world becomes more industrialized this consumption will increase. Diesel is no longer cheaper to produce than gasoline with all of the clean air legislation. Bottom line...it is no wonder that diesel is at $4.00 per gallon.

Being and independent trucker I happen to being doing OK, not great like I was 4 years ago but OK. Collectively we can share our experiences and expose the "real" problems we are facing. As an independent I often deal with private freight brokers, brokerages owned by trucking companies and shippers. I'll make this short...some of them (not all) are cheating us. There is nothing we can do about "tight ass" shippers. However, the brokers that are charging shippers a fuel surcharge and not passing ALL OF IT to the trucker is what we need to address. Basically, a lot of shippers are probably paying legitimate rates including a fair fuel surcharge. In general, a lot of truckers are running freight for lower than desired rates. So therefore, there ARE some middlemen "brokers" that are making unfair profits, cheating their customers (shippers), putting some of us out of business and causing inflation for the American public. This is the reporting I want to be hearing on radio and seeing on TV. Finally, stop hauling that cheap ass freight..say no and hang up on "tight ass brokers" and make another call (or 20-100 whatever it takes). There ARE brokers you can work with. You lease operators go find a company that knows what they're doing and pays you fairly on a consistent basis.

Let's hear your ideas and suggestions. Here's one: Required by law disclosure of the shipper/broker agreement so at least we know what kind of money is being put out there. Don't know if that's legal or possible but its a start. Come on people, let's hear from you.

 

[truckerstrike08]

It's ok Wyatt just don't let it happen again LOL kiddin

 

[truckerstrike08]

Truckers And Citizens United

TRUCKERS AND CITIZENS UNITE
AGAINST HIGH FUEL PRICES

MEETING TO BE HELD
April 5, 2008
Saturday 2pm (eastern)

WHERE
Gables Truck Stop (I-81 exit 77) Manada Hill Exit


Everyone Who Is Effected By High
Fuel Costs Is Urged To Participate
(This Includes: Gas, Heating Oils & Diesel Fuels)

Details Will Be Discussed
On Next Course Of Action

***********************************

This DOES affect each and every one of us.

We are all digging deep in our pockets for gas, groceries, $$ to buy heating oil, etc.

If enough people ban together and draw the attention from the right people we will be heard,
this means we will make a difference.

Remember, the prices all trickle down to the consumer.

Even if you aren't in the trucking industry you are feeling the crunch.

Come on out and listen,
I think you will learn something!



LETS TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK!!!

STAND UP, SPEAK OUT OR GO BROKE!!!

www.TheAmericanDriver.com

 

[Tn. Trucker]

Truckers And Citizens United

TRUCKERS AND CITIZENS UNITE
AGAINST HIGH FUEL PRICES

MEETING TO BE HELD
April 5, 2008
Saturday 2pm (eastern)

WHERE
Gables Truck Stop (I-81 exit 77) Manada Hill Exit


Everyone Who Is Effected By High
Fuel Costs Is Urged To Participate
(This Includes: Gas, Heating Oils & Diesel Fuels)

Details Will Be Discussed
On Next Course Of Action

***********************************

This DOES affect each and every one of us.

We are all digging deep in our pockets for gas, groceries, $$ to buy heating oil, etc.

If enough people ban together anddraw the attention from the right people we will be heard,
this meanswe will makea difference.

Remember, the prices all trickle down to theconsumer.

Even if youaren't in the trucking industry you are feeling the crunch.

Come on out and listen,
I think you will learn something!



LETS TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK!!!

STAND UP, SPEAK OUT OR GO BROKE!!!

www.TheAmericanDriver.com

THERE IS A SLOGAN FOR EVERY DRIVER ON THE ROAD. TRUCKERS AND CITIZENS UNITE AGAINST HIGH FUEL PRICES. Good job. Lets involve the american people. It's time every person has a say and not just truckers.

 

[Tn. Trucker]

OK just went to fuel up here in North Florida and payed $4.14 a galllon. I'm not a trucker but I own a angus farm and I don't know how were going to run tractors or haul cattle to the market. So please let us none truckers know what we can do and were we can strike with you!

It dosen't matter if your a trucker ro not, your business is impacted by the fuel prices. Hang in there with us while we regroup. IT AIN'T OVER YET. It is time to fire up ALL americans and let them know we're sick of all our money going for fuel. I think we are on a better track now.

 

[Wyatt Earp]

We Need to keep this up don't stop now!!!!

 

[Tn. Trucker]

Our slogan is "TRUCKERS & CITIZENS UNITE AGAINST HIGH FUEL PRICES" Our theme song should be, Twisted Sister "WE'RE NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[freightmaster]

Hi all. This past week has been frustrating. I've been listening to radio and TV reports and most of what I am hearing are complaints of our government not doing anything for us with regard to high fuel prices. Now I know that the government and politics in general are often maddening and frustrating. But my suggestion is for those affected to research what they are talking about before making "shoot from the hip" and "whatever pops into your head" comments. Enough "take our country back" comments and the like and start making educated and objective statements so people will take us seriously.

Go on the web and research current world oil production and consumption and read in depth the nature of economics and the law of supply and demand. Currently the world is producing about 86 million barrels of oil per day. The U.S. is consuming about 1/5 of this. As the world becomes more industrialized this consumption will increase. Diesel is no longer cheaper to produce than gasoline with all of the clean air legislation. Bottom line...it is no wonder that diesel is at $4.00 per gallon.

Being and independent trucker I happen to being doing OK, not great like I was 4 years ago but OK. Collectively we can share our experiences and expose the "real" problems we are facing. As an independent I often deal with private freight brokers, brokerages owned by trucking companies and shippers. I'll make this short...some of them (not all) are cheating us. There is nothing we can do about "tight ass" shippers. However, the brokers that are charging shippers a fuel surcharge and not passing ALL OF IT to the trucker is what we need to address. Basically, a lot of shippers are probably paying legitimate rates including a fair fuel surcharge. In general, a lot of truckers are running freight for lower than desired rates. So therefore, there ARE some middlemen "brokers" that are making unfair profits, cheating their customers (shippers), putting some of us out of business and causing inflation for the American public. This is the reporting I want to be hearing on radio and seeing on TV. Finally, stop hauling that cheap ass freight..say no and hang up on "tight ass brokers" and make another call (or 20-100 whatever it takes). There ARE brokers you can work with. You lease operators go find a company that knows what they're doing and pays you fairly on a consistent basis.

Let's hear your ideas and suggestions. Here's one: Required by law disclosure of the shipper/broker agreement so at least we know what kind of money is being put out there. Don't know if that's legal or possible but its a start. Come on people, let's hear from you.

Wow! Your very first post and contradictory to the mission! Also BS! There is no oil shortage, its just GREED plain and simple!

 

[firecracker24]

Our slogan is "TRUCKERS & CITIZENS UNITE AGAINST HIGH FUEL PRICES" Our theme song should be, Twisted Sister "WE'RE NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i agree this is the kind of stuff we should have had before the "protest" began. one single theme that everyone can get under and understand the full extent of what we are doing.instead of having multiple groups saying and doing different things. i know it took alot from some drivers to particapate in the protest and i want to thank you.its nice to know that some people can still bond together when times get tough and show the support that this country needs.

 

[Tn. Truckers Wife]

I have changed my name to TN. TRUCKERS WIFE from shadowdr because i was using my husbands sign on.

 

[lunachic]

Very True

Hi all. This past week has been frustrating. I've been listening to radio and TV reports and most of what I am hearing are complaints of our government not doing anything for us with regard to high fuel prices. Now I know that the government and politics in general are often maddening and frustrating. But my suggestion is for those affected to research what they are talking about before making "shoot from the hip" and "whatever pops into your head" comments. Enough "take our country back" comments and the like and start making educated and objective statements so people will take us seriously.

Go on the web and research current world oil production and consumption and read in depth the nature of economics and the law of supply and demand. Currently the world is producing about 86 million barrels of oil per day. The U.S. is consuming about 1/5 of this. As the world becomes more industrialized this consumption will increase. Diesel is no longer cheaper to produce than gasoline with all of the clean air legislation. Bottom line...it is no wonder that diesel is at $4.00 per gallon.

Being and independent trucker I happen to being doing OK, not great like I was 4 years ago but OK. Collectively we can share our experiences and expose the "real" problems we are facing. As an independent I often deal with private freight brokers, brokerages owned by trucking companies and shippers. I'll make this short...some of them (not all) are cheating us. There is nothing we can do about "tight ass" shippers. However, the brokers that are charging shippers a fuel surcharge and not passing ALL OF IT to the trucker is what we need to address. Basically, a lot of shippers are probably paying legitimate rates including a fair fuel surcharge. In general, a lot of truckers are running freight for lower than desired rates. So therefore, there ARE some middlemen "brokers" that are making unfair profits, cheating their customers (shippers), putting some of us out of business and causing inflation for the American public. This is the reporting I want to be hearing on radio and seeing on TV. Finally, stop hauling that cheap ass freight..say no and hang up on "tight ass brokers" and make another call (or 20-100 whatever it takes). There ARE brokers you can work with. You lease operators go find a company that knows what they're doing and pays you fairly on a consistent basis.

Let's hear your ideas and suggestions. Here's one: Required by law disclosure of the shipper/broker agreement so at least we know what kind of money is being put out there. Don't know if that's legal or possible but its a start. Come on people, let's hear from you.

Well,
Here comes alot of ugly remarks from people, but u r right and I removed my post from truckstrike08, I thought of somethings put it to be posted and it was not, so if they don't like something....(censor) and that's wrong.
We r o/o and I would guess at least 85% of us r already under. This is not a strike it's a protest. and coming up with some solutions that might help trucker's, Which if u read the board has moved alittle away from it?
One Idea I have is for the Gov. to drop Authority, most of us don't have it because we can't afford it. Give us the right to work cross the state line like anyone else not driving a big truck can. 1 tag, like the C.D.L. Lower the Insurance limits, We pay tax's on fuel at the pumps anyway's. If we go under lease might as well drive for a company. in the end a co. driver makes more. I
remember in 04 my husband saying when fuel hits $2.00 he's parking well it did, And he did'nt.
At least if we can cross state lines we have the ability to compete. later on when things do get right in our economy they can start to bring Authority back. Well just my thought.

 

[Tn. Truckers Wife]

i agree this is the kind of stuff we should have had before the "protest" began. one single theme that everyone can get under and understand the full extent of what we are doing.instead of having multiple groups saying and doing different things. i know it took alot from some drivers to particapate in the protest and i want to thank you.its nice to know that some people can still bond together when times get tough and show the support that this country needs.

You sound like we are defeated. We have not lost yet, we are regrouping. If you go to WWW.THE AMERICAN DRIVER.COM you will see they are organizing , trying to get a representative from every state so we will know what we are doing. Hang in there.