National Book Month: Exploring the Rich Literature of the Trucking Industry

October is National Book Month, a time when book lovers across the United States celebrate the joys of reading and the power of storytelling. It's an excellent opportunity to dive into books that explore a wide range of topics, and one industry that has inspired a diverse collection of literature is the trucking industry. From memoirs to historical accounts and regulatory insights, there's a wealth of literature waiting to be discovered by those interested in the world of trucking.

At Tranztec, we've curated our top picks, grouping our favorites into handy subcategories.

General Information and Industry Insights

1. Trucking Country: The Road to America's Wal-Mart Economy by Shane Hamilton:
This book provides a detailed history of the trucking industry and its significant role in shaping the modern American economy.

2. Truckload Transportation: Economics, Pricing, and Analysis by Leo J. Lazarus:
For those interested in understanding the economics and pricing dynamics of the truckload transportation segment, this book is a valuable resource. 

3. Trucking in America: Moving the Goods by Colton Ryder:
A Nostalgic Reflection on the Rigs That Rolled the Roads of America in the Glory Years of Truck History

Management and Logistics

1. Trucking Business: 3 Manuscripts in 1 Book, How to Start a Freight Brokerage Company, How to Start a Trucking Business, Hotshot Trucking by Ronald Harris:
This combination book guides readers through starting and operating various businesses within the trucking industry.

2. Freight Broker Business Startup: The Ultimate Guide to Starting and Running a Trucking Freight Brokerage Business by Gus Bowen:
If you're interested in the freight brokerage aspect of the trucking industry, this book provides valuable insights.

3. The Lean Supply Chain: Managing the Challenge at Tesco by Barry Evans and Robert Mason:
Although focused on Tesco, this book offers insights into logistics and supply chain management, which are intrinsically tied to the trucking industry. 

4. Supply Chain Management: A Logistics Perspective by John J. Coyle, C. John Langley Jr., Brian Gibson, and Robert A. Novack:
A broader perspective on supply chain management, of which trucking is a crucial component.

5. Transportation: A Global Supply Chain Perspective by Robert A. Novack, Brian Gibson, John J. Coyle, and Edward J. Bardi:
A global view of transportation and logistics, examining the interconnectedness of supply chains.

Safety and Regulations

1. Transportation Safety and Insurance Law by William E. Kenworthy:
This valuable two-volume set has all the answers you need about federal regulatory schemes and the common law related to transportation safety in a highly accessible, quick-answer format.

2. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Handbook by J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.:
This book delves into the intricate world of federal regulations that govern the trucking industry, shedding light on its complex framework.

Narratives and Stories

1. The Long Haul: A Trucker's Tales of Life on the Road by Finn Murphy:
Finn Murphy offers a personal account of his experiences as a long-haul trucker, providing valuable insights into the industry.

2. King of the Road: True Tales from a Legendary Ice Road Trucker by Alex Debogorski:
This book narrates the adventures of an ice road trucker, providing a personal perspective on this niche within the trucking industry.

3. Truck by Katherine Dunn:
Dunn's novel offers a unique perspective on the trucking industry through storytelling.

4. Truckers: The First Book of the Nomes by Terry Pratchett:
Terry Pratchett's unique take on the lives of truckers in a fantastical world.

5. Truck: A Love Story by Michael Perry:
Michael Perry's book provides a relatable and heartfelt account of his deep connection to his truck and rural life.

6. Trucking Life: An Entertaining, Yet Informative Look at the Various Roles and Responsibilities of the Professional Truck Driver by Todd McCann:
The author, who has been a trucker since 1997, describes the trucking lifestyle through the use of stories and humor.

History and Evolution

1. On the Move: Transportation and the American Story by Janet F. Davidson, Michael S. Sweeney, and Michael Sweeney:
This book explores the broader history of transportation in the United States, providing context for the trucking industry's evolution.

2. Trucking in the Age of Information by Dale Belman, Chelsea White:
A comprehensive overview of the contemporary trucking industry and how it has adapted and evolved in the information age.

3. The Ice Road: An Epic Journey from the Stalinist Labor Camps to Freedom by Stefan Waydenfeld:
A historical account of trucking in a unique context, exploring the journey of those who escaped labor camps.

4. American Trucking: A Seventy-Five Year Odyssey by Robert M. Roll:
Roll offers a historical perspective on the American trucking industry, spanning seven decades of its evolution.

It is always a great time to pick up a book and read; but this October and National Book Month is an excellent opportunity to explore the rich literature surrounding the trucking industry, whether you're interested in its history, economics, personal stories, or even its fictional and supernatural aspects. With this diverse selection of books, there's something for every reader to enjoy and learn from within the world of trucking literature.

National Book Month is an annual observance in the United States that celebrates the joys and benefits of reading books. It takes place during the entire month of October. The purpose of National Book Month is to promote literacy, encourage people to read, and raise awareness about the importance of books and reading in our lives.