#trucker negotiation tips

[artisticdivasworld]

How to Earn Trust and Get Better Loads: Tips for New Truckers

Here is the sixth part in our series to help new truckers start off on a positive footing. We hope you are finding the information in these posts useful and that we are enabling our newest truckers to be successful in their businesses. When you’re new to trucking, one of the most important—and sometimes most challenging—parts of the job is building strong relationships with brokers and shippers.…

[stackkly]

Big Rig Parking 101: How to Locate Safe Overnight Stops for Oversized Vehicles

Introduction: The Growing Need for Big Rig Parking

If you drive a big rig, you know how critical it is to find a safe place to park overnight. Whether you’re hauling freight across states or just doing local routes, the need for secure, accessible, and legal parking is non-negotiable. The demand for big rig parking has grown significantly, but the availability hasn't kept up. That’s why knowing how to locate safe overnight stops is essential for every trucker out there.

This blog is here to guide you through the ins and outs of finding big rig parking near me—no jargon, no fluff, just real-world, actionable advice.

What Qualifies as a Big Rig and Why Parking Matters

A big rig typically refers to a combination of a semi-truck (tractor) and a trailer. These vehicles can be up to 75 feet long and weigh 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. With dimensions like that, not just any parking space will do.

Parking matters not just for rest but also for safety, legal compliance with HOS (Hours of Service) regulations, and cargo security. Simply put, you need the right kind of space that can accommodate both the size and the requirements of your vehicle.

Common Challenges Faced by Big Rig Drivers

Let’s be honest—parking a big rig is no walk in the park. Here are some of the common headaches:

Limited Availability: Legal truck parking spots fill up fast, especially near urban centers.

Safety Concerns: Not every open space is secure.

Lack of Information: Real-time data about available spots isn’t always accessible.

Cost: Some private lots charge premium rates.

Understanding these hurdles helps you prepare better and avoid last-minute stress.

Understanding the Importance of Safe Overnight Parking

Why all this fuss about overnight parking? Because your safety, the safety of your cargo, and your compliance with federal regulations depend on it.

Unsafe parking can lead to:

Theft

Accidents

Fines for illegal parking

Fatigue-related issues due to lack of proper rest

When you plan your overnight stops, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, safer ride.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Big Rig Parking Near Me

Here’s your easy-to-follow plan:

Step 1: Start early. Don’t wait until nightfall to begin looking for a spot.

Step 2: Use a GPS or trucker-specific apps that show big rig-friendly spots.

Step 3: Cross-reference with online forums or local driver groups for real-time updates.

Step 4: Call ahead if you’re considering private lots or facilities.

Step 5: Confirm amenities like lighting, restrooms, and security features.

Top Resources and Tools to Locate Big Rig Parking

Here are some of the best tools truckers swear by:

Truck Parking USA

Trucker Path App

Park My Truck

Google Maps with satellite view

DOT websites

These tools help you find everything from rest stops to big rig parking near me that might not show up in traditional GPS systems.

Best Practices for Choosing Safe and Legal Parking Spaces

Not all parking is created equal. Here’s what to look for:

Lighting: Well-lit areas deter criminal activity.

Surveillance: Look for places with cameras or on-site personnel.

Distance from the Highway: The closer to major routes, the better for accessibility.

Legal Signage: Always confirm it’s legal to park overnight.

These checkpoints can save you from costly fines and unsafe situations.

Tips for Parking at Truck Stops, Rest Areas, and Private Lots

Truck Stops: Big chains like Pilot and TA offer reliable options, but they fill up quickly. Aim to arrive before 6 p.m.

Rest Areas: Free and convenient, but be cautious of security.

Private Lots: More flexibility, but call ahead and ask about rates, security, and access.

How to Stay Safe While Parked Overnight

Your truck is your livelihood, and your safety is a priority. Here are some tips:

Lock all doors and secure your load

Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas

Use steering wheel and trailer locks

Keep personal items out of view

Check surroundings before exiting your vehicle

Long-Term Big Rig Parking: What You Need to Know

Sometimes you need more than just an overnight stop. Long-term parking requires careful planning.

Look for:

Gated facilities

Monthly rate options

Nearby repair or maintenance shops

Easy access to major highways

Having a go-to spot for long-term big rig parking can reduce stress and downtime.

Benefits of Pre-Booking Your Parking Space

Imagine rolling into a fully booked truck stop at midnight. Stressful, right? Pre-booking eliminates that.

Benefits include:

Guaranteed availability

Time savings

Reduced risk of violations

Peace of mind

Many platforms now offer this feature, helping you plan your routes with confidence.

Exploring Alternative Parking Solutions

With traditional spots filling up fast, many drivers are thinking outside the box:

Industrial areas with overnight permissions

Shared commercial spaces

Unused farmland or private lots

These might not be on mainstream maps, but they can be hidden gems if vetted properly.

Why Private Parking Options Are Gaining Popularity

As demand grows, private big rig parking options are stepping in to bridge the gap.

Benefits include:

Less congestion

Customizable space sizes

Often better security

Flexible hours of access

Drivers appreciate the peace and predictability these options provide.

How to Use Online Platforms to Secure Reliable Parking

Platforms like Stackkly.com make it easy to browse available spaces, compare features, and book instantly.

Key features to look for:

Detailed listings with photos

Verified reviews

Flexible booking options

Responsive customer support

These platforms simplify what used to be a time-consuming process.

Final Thoughts: Your Next Step in Finding Safe Big Rig Parking

Securing the right parking isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, compliance, and peace of mind. By using the tools and tips we’ve discussed, you can turn this often-stressful task into a routine part of your day.

So next time you’re wondering, Where can I find big rig parking near me?—you’ll have a game plan ready to go.

Bonus Tip: Explore Storage and Parking Rentals with Stackkly.com

If you’re frequently on the road and tired of the daily hunt for a parking spot, consider exploring more permanent or flexible options through platforms like Stackkly.com.

Whether you need a secure lot for a night, a week, or even longer-term storage for your rig or trailer, Stackkly connects you with available spaces in your area that suit your needs. It’s a hassle-free way to take control of your parking situation without breaking the bank.

While it’s not the only option out there, it’s definitely one worth checking out as you explore smarter ways to manage your big rig parking needs.

FAQs

1. How do I find big rig parking near me for overnight stays?

Start with a quick online search using big rig parking near me. You’ll get results for local truck stops, rest areas, and apps like Stackkly that let you compare and reserve oversized vehicle parking in minutes. Look for secure spots with good lighting and space to maneuver.

2. Is it safe to leave my rig overnight in public rest stops?

Public rest areas can be hit or miss. While some offer decent overnight parking for big rigs, others may lack security. It’s safer to use a verified parking platform that lists trusted locations with user reviews, gated access, and security cameras.

3. Can I reserve big rig parking in advance?

Yes, and it’s a smart move. Use platforms like Stackkly to pre-book secure big rig parking near your stop. This saves time and ensures you’re not left circling for hours at the end of your drive.

4. What should I look for in a safe overnight parking spot for my big rig?

Look for well-lit lots, gated access, surveillance cameras, and 24/7 accessibility. Bonus if it’s near fuel stations or has restrooms. Always check the lot size—your rig needs room to park, turn, and exit without a hassle.

5. Are there dedicated lots just for big rig parking?

Absolutely. Many property owners now rent out oversized vehicle parking spaces specifically designed for semi-trucks, trailers, and RVs. Platforms like Stackkly connect you with these spaces that may not show up in typical map searches.

6. What’s the best way to locate big rig parking near my route?

Use a parking marketplace app that filters results by route, rig size, and availability. You can even check real-time openings, prices, and features like security or long-term stay options.

7. How do I avoid No Parking zones or towing risks with my big rig?

Always double-check signage and local parking rules. When in doubt, stick to locations listed on verified parking platforms. These spots are pre-approved for big rig use and lower the risk of fines or being towed.

8. Can I find affordable big rig parking near urban areas?

Yes, although space is limited in cities, many hidden gems exist—especially private lots and residential driveways listed on rental marketplaces. Booking ahead can help lock in lower rates and stress-free access.

9. Is overnight big rig parking available at truck stops and travel centers?

Most truck stops offer overnight parking, but they fill up fast—especially near major highways. It’s smart to call ahead or reserve a parking spot for big rigs through a dedicated platform if you know your ETA.

10. What if I need long-term big rig parking?

Plenty of places now offer weekly or monthly oversized parking rentals. Whether you’re between loads or need to store your rig during time off, you can book secure long-term spaces on platforms like Stackkly with ease.

11. Can I filter parking listings by my rig size or trailer type?

Yes! Most modern parking apps let you filter by vehicle length, width, and type—whether you're hauling a 53-footer, driving a box truck, or towing a flatbed. This ensures the space fits without stress.

12. How far in advance should I book big rig parking?

Ideally, at least a few hours before you hit your stop. If you’re headed into a busy area or arriving late at night, book earlier in the day to guarantee a safe and legal spot for the night.

[abboudlawfirm-omaha]

How Can Road Traffic Accidents Be Prevented?

Road traffic accidents are a significant concern for everyone who takes to the road. Whether driving to work, taking a family trip, or running errands, safety should always be your priority. Preventing road accidents is not just about following the rules; it's about fostering a culture of awareness, responsibility, and caution. Let’s dive into actionable steps that can help reduce road traffic accidents.

Why Road Safety Matters

Every year, thousands of people are impacted by road traffic accidents. These incidents not only result in physical injuries but also lead to emotional and financial hardships. While legal professionals, like a Truck Accident Lawyer, can help you navigate the aftermath, wouldn’t it be better to avoid accidents altogether? Understanding key prevention measures can make the roads safer for yourself and others.

How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Collision

A Truck Accident Lawyer is invaluable if you’ve been in an accident, especially involving large trucks. They help you understand your legal rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation. But beyond handling the aftermath, these professionals also advocate for safety measures to reduce accidents.

Here are some common causes of road traffic accidents that a Truck Accident Lawyer often encounters:

Distracted driving, such as texting or eating while driving.

Speeding or aggressive driving behaviors.

Fatigue, particularly in commercial truck drivers.

Poor weather conditions and lack of preparation for them.

Failure to maintain vehicles properly.

Recognizing these factors is the first step toward prevention.

Steps to Prevent Road Traffic Accidents

1. Stay Focused While Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions like mobile phones, loud music, or multitasking. A focused driver is a safer driver.

2. Follow Speed Limits

Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. Always adhere to posted speed limits, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic or construction zones.

3. Maintain Your Vehicle

Regular vehicle maintenance can prevent mechanical failures that lead to accidents. Ensure your brakes, tires, and lights are in good condition before hitting the road.

4. Understand and Follow Traffic Rules

Traffic laws exist for a reason. Adhering to them reduces confusion and minimizes the risk of accidents. This includes observing traffic signals and lane markings and yielding when necessary.

5. Plan for Adverse Weather

Rain, snow, and fog can make roads hazardous. Slow down, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and use appropriate lighting to enhance visibility.

Why Prevention Is Better Than Dealing With a Truck Accident Lawyer Later

While having a trusted Truck Accident Lawyer can provide peace of mind after a collision, prevention is always the preferred option. Due to their size and weight, trucks often cause accidents with severe consequences. Safer driving practices can help avoid these traumatic incidents.

Key preventive tips for trucks and other vehicles:

Truck drivers should take mandated rest breaks to avoid fatigue.

Passenger vehicle drivers should avoid blind spots when driving near trucks.

Both truckers and everyday drivers should prioritize defensive driving techniques.

The Role of Technology in Accident Prevention

Modern technology is vital in reducing accidents. Many vehicles now have features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control, which can serve as an extra layer of safety if you frequently share the road with trucks.

Additionally, companies managing truck fleets can use telematics to monitor driver behavior and ensure compliance with safety regulations. A Truck Accident Lawyer often highlights these innovations when advocating for stricter safety standards.

Know When to Seek Legal Guidance from a Truck Accident Lawyer

Despite all preventive efforts, accidents can still happen. If you or someone you know has been involved in a road traffic accident, consulting a Truck Accident Lawyer is an important step. They can guide you through the complexities of:

Filing a claim.

Collecting evidence to prove liability.

Negotiating with insurance companies.

Seeking legal advice ensures that you’re not left navigating these challenges alone.

After a Road Traffic Accident? Abboud Law Firm Is Here to Help!

Don't wait to act if you’ve experienced a road traffic accident and need trusted legal support. The experienced team at Abboud Law Firm is here to provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to speak with a dedicated Truck Accident Lawyer and take the first step toward understanding your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

By practicing safe driving habits and staying informed, you can help prevent accidents and keep our roads safer for everyone.

[shipwithjason]

Hotshot Loads in Texas: A Guide for Independent Truckers

Hotshot trucking, a sector of the transportation industry that has rapidly gained popularity, particularly in Texas, involves the hauling of time-sensitive loads that are smaller than what a traditional freight truck would carry. These loads are often delivered using pickup trucks pulling flatbed trailers, and the drivers—commonly known as "hotshot drivers"—are usually independent operators. In Texas, the demand for hotshot trucking is high due to the state's booming industries, including oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing. This article explores the ins and outs of hotshot loads in Texas, offering insights into why the Lone Star State is a hotbed for this growing field.

What Are Hotshot Loads?

Hotshot loads typically involve transporting smaller, urgent shipments. These shipments can range from heavy equipment parts to construction materials, and they need to be delivered quickly to keep projects or operations on schedule. Hotshot loads are usually smaller than full truckloads (FTLs) and are often less than 10,000 pounds. Hotshot drivers usually operate with medium-duty trucks and pull flatbed trailers, making it easier to access remote areas or job sites that traditional big rigs might struggle to reach.

Why Is Texas Ideal for Hotshot Trucking?

Texas, being one of the largest states in the U.S., with vast land and a sprawling economy, is an ideal location for hotshot trucking. Several industries in Texas, including oil and gas, construction, and agriculture, require expedited transportation of equipment and materials, and this demand is a perfect match for the flexibility hotshot trucking provides. Here are a few reasons why Texas is a hotspot for hotshot trucking:

Oil and Gas Industry: Texas is a leader in the oil and gas sector, with numerous wells and rigs scattered across the state. The industry often requires immediate transportation of parts and equipment, making it a key player in the hotshot trucking market.

Construction Boom: With rapid urbanization and development, Texas has a high demand for construction materials. Hotshot drivers frequently transport these materials to construction sites where quick delivery is essential to meet project deadlines.

Manufacturing and Agriculture: Texas has a strong manufacturing base, producing everything from machinery to consumer goods. In addition, the state's vast agricultural sector often needs rapid delivery of supplies or equipment. Hotshot drivers can step in to deliver essential items to rural or hard-to-reach areas.

How Do Hotshot Drivers Find Loads?

Finding hotshot loads in Texas can be relatively easy thanks to several online platforms and load boards that connect drivers with shippers. These digital tools allow drivers to view available loads, negotiate rates, and book jobs. Popular load boards like DAT, uShip, and Truckstop.com are commonly used by hotshot drivers to find both intrastate and interstate jobs. Additionally, many drivers establish relationships with local brokers or businesses to secure a steady flow of work.

Texas also has a thriving hotshot trucking community, with forums and social media groups where drivers share tips, load opportunities, and resources. Networking within these groups can lead to regular, well-paying jobs and a strong reputation among shippers.

Regulations for Hotshot Drivers in Texas

Like any other trucking operation, hotshot trucking is regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). In Texas, hotshot drivers must adhere to state and federal regulations regarding load weights, hours of service, and safety standards. While Hotshot Loads in Ga often weigh less than 26,000 pounds (which means some drivers might not need a Commercial Driver’s License or CDL), any driver carrying loads over this threshold or transporting hazardous materials will need to obtain a CDL. Drivers also need to ensure that their equipment, including their trucks and trailers, meet the required safety and maintenance standards set by the DOT.

 

Hotshot trucking offers a lucrative and flexible option for independent drivers in Texas. With numerous industries requiring expedited and short-haul delivery services, hotshot loads are a reliable source of income for those willing to invest in the necessary equipment and follow the industry regulations. Whether it's delivering crucial parts to an oil rig in West Texas or transporting materials to a construction site in Dallas, hotshot trucking in Texas plays an integral role in keeping industries moving.

As demand continues to grow, opportunities for hotshot drivers in Texas are expected to expand, making this a viable career path for those looking for independence and a steady stream of work in the transportation industry.

[mitchellscaps]

Stay Ahead in Retail: Wholesale Trucker Caps That Drive Sales

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of retail, staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. One particularly lucrative avenue for retailers to explore is the realm of Wholesale Trucker Caps Australia. These stylish and versatile headwear options have proven to be more than just a passing trend, playing a significant role in driving sales for retail businesses.

In this blog, we will delve into the trendy appeal of trucker caps, consumer preferences, effective marketing strategies, and maximizing profit margins through bulk orders.

Valuable insights and tips to boost your retail sales through trucker caps:

Section 1: The Trendy Appeal of Trucker Caps

Trucker caps have solidified their place in the fashion and retail industry, becoming a staple accessory for many. Their enduring popularity can be attributed to their casual yet trendy appeal, making them a sought-after item for consumers of all ages.

Retail businesses have a wide array of versatile styles and designs to choose from when it comes to wholesale trucker caps, allowing them to cater to diverse preferences and fashion sensibilities. Whether it's vintage-inspired designs or modern, sleek variations, trucker caps offer retailers the opportunity to attract customers and boost sales through an accessory that has stood the test of time.

Section 2: Understanding Consumer Preferences

To effectively leverage the sales-driving potential of Wholesale Caps Australia, retailers must first understand consumer preferences in headwear. The appeal of trucker caps lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their functionality, offering protection from the sun and a laid-back, casual vibe.

By recognizing and catering to specific consumer demographics, retailers can tailor their trucker cap offerings to resonate with their target audience. Retailers must align their product selection with customer tastes, ensuring that their inventory reflects the styles and designs that appeal to their clientele, ultimately driving sales and fostering customer satisfaction.

Section 3: Marketing Strategies for Wholesale Trucker Caps

Effective marketing is pivotal in successfully promoting wholesale trucker caps to potential buyers. Social media, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertising are powerful tools that retailers can utilize to reach a wider audience and create buzz around their trucker cap offerings.

By showcasing the versatility and appeal of trucker caps through engaging content and strategic campaigns, retail businesses can effectively capture the interest of consumers. Real-life examples of successful marketing campaigns from retail businesses that have excelled in promoting trucker caps can serve as inspiration and guidance for those looking to make an impact in the market.

Section 4: Maximizing Profit Margins with Bulk Orders

Purchasing wholesale trucker caps in bulk quantities presents retail businesses with substantial financial benefits, allowing them to maximize profit margins and offer competitive pricing to their customers. Negotiating favorable pricing and terms with suppliers or manufacturers is a crucial aspect of securing cost-effective bulk orders.

Retailers can also benefit from insights into calculating profit margins and setting prices that strike a balance between profitability and offering quality products to their customers. By understanding the financial dynamics of bulk orders, retailers can make informed decisions that contribute to their sales and overall business growth.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the significance of wholesale trucker caps in driving retail sales cannot be understated. As retailers navigate the dynamic landscape of the industry, embracing the trendy appeal of trucker caps, understanding consumer preferences, implementing effective marketing strategies, and maximizing profit margins through bulk orders can set them on a path to sustainable success.

We encourage retailers to seize the lucrative opportunities presented by wholesale trucker caps and explore the resources available to further enhance their understanding and sourcing of high-quality trucker caps. Stay ahead in retail with wholesale trucker caps Australia, and witness the positive impact they can have on your sales and customer satisfaction.

Source - https://www.storeboard.com/blogs/shopping/stay-ahead-in-retail-wholesale-trucker-caps-that-drive-sales/5724651

[finefeatheredfabler]

Cowboys are frequently secretly fond of each other

So I’ve got that modern AU where Arthur is a karaoke-singing veterinarian that nobody asked for. 

It started out as a male!Reader x Arthur Morgan story, but I wanted to give the main character a backstory, so it’s male!OC x Arthur Morgan if you’re into that sort of thing. Click the title to read on AO3!

New veterinarian Eli Jensen accepts a job at a vet clinic in Texas and spends a night relaxing before he starts work. Little does he know, he may have found more than just a job in the tiny town of Tahiti, Texas. He may have found the love of his life - Arthur Morgan.

It was heavily inspired by @amistrio ‘s awesome FC5 fic i sought him who my soul loves (i sought him but found him not), go check it out!

CW: Anal sex, oral sex, one night stand

              The move had been a hard one. Born and raised in California, Eli never thought he would willingly move to Texas. Texas. "The Lonestar State," he'd been greeted as he drove across the state line from New Mexico. Recently graduated from vet school at UC Davis, he’d found himself scrambling to find a job in a difficult job market. Looking at rent costs in Cali and considering the size of his not insubstantial student loan payment, he decided he ought to look elsewhere for work.

              He had visited relatives in Texas once or twice, nice people, but way more conservative than he preferred. He doubted they knew he was gay, and it wasn't exactly like it came up in conversation, but the political signs out front had told him everything he needed to know about the social opinions of the entire neighborhood. Which is exactly why he was hesitant when he had first seen to the job offer online.

              "In search of recently graduated vet student for equine specialist residency. Relocation bonus and payment of first six months student loans will be included."

              It was almost too good to be true. He loved horses, far preferring the big animals to the tiny, delicate and often bitey little dogs that frequently belonged to California clients. Not only that, but the money was unarguably good, especially when compared to the cost of living. So, he’d picked up the phone and, a bit nervous, called the number on the online listing. He had to imagine that whoever had posted it wasn't particularly tech savvy. No one in their right mind published a phone number on the internet if they didn't want a billion spam calls.

              The phone rang four times before a timid voice answered.

              "G-good Faith Veterinary Clinic, c-can you please hold?"

              "Uh, sure." Tinny hold music jingled in his ear and he continued scrolling through job listings, too desperate for work to waste any time.

              "Goddammit Kieran, how long've they been on hold for?!" bellowed a loud voice in the receiver, making Eli wince and hold the phone away from his ear.

              "Oh, uh, uh, only a c-couple of minutes I think?"

              "Well, what do they want?"

              "I don't know, Doc, I had to put 'em on hold cuz Miss Jones showed up without an appointment again."

              "Well, tell Karen she's gonna hafta wait then," the gruff voice drawled. "Ah shit, I accidentally picked up. Er, hello, this is Doc?"

              "Hi, um, this is Dr. Jensen," he said, the new title still feeling odd in his mouth.

              "Uh huh, we got a mutual client you need records for?" he asked and Eli could hear him clicking on something over the phone.

              "Uh, no, actually I'm calling about your job posting."

              "The job posting? Oh, the job posting. Yeah, I reckon I could use another hand around here. How are you with horses?"

              "I worked on a ranch when I was younger, and I did well in my equine clinicals."

              "Mmmhmm. What's your GPA outta vet school?" he asked. Eli told him, blushing a bit. "When'd you graduate?"

              "This May," Eli told him. "Look, I know I'm pretty green, but the ad did say you were looking for a new graduate."

              "That I am. I'll tell you what, how about you call back in...uh, about two hours and we'll do the interview over the phone."

              "That....that'd be great, Dr, uh...?"

              "Eh, just call me 'Doc.' Alright. Talk to you in a bit." Click.

              Eli had waited the two hours and called back, disappointed when no one answered and he received the afterhours voicemail greeting for the clinic.

              "You have reached the Good Faith Veterinary Clinic. Our office is currently closed. If your animal is experiencing a medical emergency, please call Doc directly at…" Eli waited for the rest of the greeting to play, left a message and decided not to dwell on it. It was just another job that wouldn't pan out, he figured, grabbing a beer from the fridge. Another two hours later and a six pack of beer deep into his woes and his phone rang. He blinked bleerily, answering the questions he was bombarded with after a brief explanation from the vet that he had to deal with an emergency and it's why he was calling late. Eli knew, after he hung up, that he had been a little too friendly, a little too informal after that beer. He cursed himself and gave up any hope of getting that particular job.

              Five A.M. the next day, his phone rang. Groggily, he answered.

              "'Lo?"

              "Hey Eli. Gave it some thought. You're a real friendly fella, just what I'm lookin' for. Your references all spoke real highly of ya. When can you start?"

              Which was how Eli found himself in the tiny town of Tahiti, Texas, an hour or so outside of Austin. He still hadn't met his employer in person yet, but that would happen on Monday. Over the phone, he had negotiated a couple of days to get himself settled and found himself needing a break from staring at and unpacking boxes in the quaint house he’d managed to rent for a fair price. It was time to relax. Eli drove to a small bar he had noticed on his way in the first time he’d seen the house, only about a ten minute drive away. "Free beer with a purchase of beer," said a tongue-in-cheek sign out front. "Karaoke Night this Friday," another declared with "Dolly Parton was not discovered here, but hey, maybe you will be?" added in smaller print.

              Eli had never been one for karaoke himself, but he enjoyed watching. He made his way inside, feeling some combination of both over and under dressed. Nearly everyone in the bar was wearing plaid collared shirts or pearl snaps with jeans and boots, women and men alike. Nearly everyone was wearing a hat of some kind, some trucker's hats, others straight up cowboy hats. He’d never felt so much like a sore thumb in his AC/DC t-shirt, khaki pants and knock-off Doc Martins. No one but the bartender turned to look at him when he entered. Everyone else's eyes were glued to the man singing an old Marty Robbins song on stage.

              "Shiner, please," he said after glancing over what was on tap. The bartender handed it to him and he took it distractedly, handing him his card to open a tab as he also stared at the man on stage. He was tall, over six feet with a chest like a whiskey barrel and astonishingly blue eyes occasionally obscured by his dark brown gambler's hat. Eli could cut himself on his jaw and his hair...wow. His hair was a gorgeous blonde-brown and nearly reached his shoulders. He was wearing a light blue pearl snap shirt with subtle vertical stripes. It was tucked into form fitting jeans that Eli surveyed appreciatively. If he had written down a list of all the things that he looked for in a one-night stand, this guy would have ticked off every one of them.

              But...chances were this guy would drag him behind the bar and beat the shit out of him before he'd be interested in him as a partner. Still. He was nice to look at and his voice was gorgeous. He didn't make much eye contact with his audience, instead looking down at his boots as he sang, his long lashes and broad hat brim veiling those beautiful blue eyes.

              "One night a wild young cowboy came in wild as the West Texas wiiiiiind," he sang, suddenly meeting Eli’s eyes. The singer gave a tiny smile and he felt butterflies in his stomach. "Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing with wicked Feleena, the girl that I loved. So in anger I challenged his right for the love of this maiden, down went his hand for the gun that he wore. My challenge was answered in less than a heartbeat, the handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor..."

              The stranger finished the song to raucous applause from the audience and he graciously accepted a drink someone handed him, blushing and trying to ignore all the people who swarmed him. He managed to escape and made his way to the bar, setting down the now-empty beer glass and tipping two fingers to indicate he'd like another. He perched on the barstool next to yours, looking over at he with an appraising expression.

              "Don't think I've seen you around before," he commented. "Buy you a drink, friend?" he asked, noting his empty beer glass. Eli’s eyebrows rose. Giving a facial shrug, he answered.

              "Sure."

              "Whatever he's drinkin', please, Javier." A beer was sat in front of him and he took a long draw.

              "Thanks."

              "Course. So, what brings you around here?"

              "The karaoke," Eli joked. He chuckled. "You've got a real nice voice," Eli told him honestly.

              "'Ppreciate it," he said, taking a drink of his own beer. He held out a big hand for Eli to shake. "Arthur Morgan," he told him. Eli wasn't sure how this evening would go, nor was he sure of the man's intentions, but a desire for caution suffused him. If this guy became a problem...

              "Mark," he said, his middle name, a thing close enough to the truth to feel natural.

              "Nice to meet you, Mark." It was obvious Arthur wanted to say something more, but was uncomfortable. "You, uh, you sing?" Eli blurted a chuckle.

              "Absolutely not."

              "Huh. Said you came here for the karaoke," he teased.

              "To watch," Eli admitted, giving him a coy look. "And to enjoy." Arthur smirked, running a finger around the top of his beer glass.

              "Alright then, what kind of music do you like?"

              "Classic rock," he answered immediately. "AC/DC," he said, pointing at his shirt, "Led Zeppelin, Queen."

              "I like Queen," Arthur commented readily. Eli quirked a brow. He hadn't been expecting that.

              "Really? I didn't expect that." Might as well be honest. Arthur chuckled.

              "What makes you say that?"

              "I don't know. Big Texas dude. Figured you’d be more of a Kenny Chesney kinda guy."

              "Ah, come on, don't insult me," he chuckled. "And, I ain't from Texas originally. But I like Queen. I like a lotta music. Might sing some more for ya later." That sent an odd shock of desire through Eli as Arthur met his eyes with an intensity he didn't expect from someone who just wanted to be his friend.

              "For me, huh?" he studied him and Arthur did the same to him.

              "Sure," he said, but the way he said it sounded more like "shoa." Eli grinned. He liked his accent.

              "Speaking of, Arthur, you up for another?" asked the lean man who was working as both bartender and DJ.

              "Sure, Javier. Let me see the binder." The bartender handed Arthur a binder full of songs and he pulled it so that Eli couldn't see it, conspiratorially flipping through the pages. "That one," Arthur said, grinning. Javier met his eyes, smirked.

              "Alright then, amigo. I'll get it spun up." A few more singers went and Eli sat quietly next to Arthur, chatting about inane subjects. He owned a ranch, he told Eli, and took care of his dads, he said.

              "Wait...your dads?" Eli asked, to clarify. Arthur's lip curled.

              "You got a problem with that?" he asked in a voice low and threatening.

              "Absolutely not," he answered immediately, relief flooding him. Arthur relaxed. "I just wasn't expecting that in this area."

              "This area?" he asked, frowning.

              "Texas," Eli settled on in a helpless tone, after a moment's thought. Arthur laughed.

              "It ain't as bad as all the pamphlets read," he joked. Eli gave an amused chuckle.

              "Well, that's a relief." Arthur stared at him for a moment.

              "Another?" he asked. Eli was at least four deep at this point, having been enjoying himself chatting with the big singer for the past hour or so.

              "Why not?" he asked, accepting another. What is this? he wondered. Does he want me? He thought so. Maybe.

              "Arthur. You're up," Javier said, polishing a glass and then clicking something on his laptop. "You wanna do the intro?" Arthur laughed.

              "Shoa." He stepped up to the mic and the sound of guitar picking began. "Some of y'all may recognize this one. Willie Nelson made it popular. It's about, uh," he chuckled, "gay cowboys. It's kinda topical for me, cuz, uh, I'm a cowboy." There was a low chuckle from the crowded audience, as though they were all sharing a wickedly good inside joke.

              Orville Peck. Orville fucking Peck was who Arthur was choosing to cover? Jesus, maybe there was a chance here. A low streak of desire filled Eli. From the stage, Arthur caught his eye as he began to sing.

              "Well, there's many a strange impulse out on the plains of West Texas. There's many a young boy who feels things he can't comprehend. And a small town don't like it when somebody falls between sexes. No, a small town don't like it when a cowboy has feelings for men. And I believe to my soul that inside every man there's..."

              "Oh fuck," Eli muttered under his breath. From beneath his gambler's hat, Arthur kept seeking him out, though he wandered through the crowded bar with his beer, getting closer to the stage. He sat down almost directly in front of him, the words of the song vibrating through him from the speakers all around. Arthur's vibrato was beautiful, and his delivery of the song was entertaining, earning whoops and hollers from all over the bar. Clearly he was a crowd favorite here.

              Arthur stepped off the stage, handing the mic to the next singer before jerking his head in a "come with me" motion. Eli followed without hesitation, leaving his empty glass behind. He was a bit wobbly on his feet, comfortably buzzed, and he could feel the front of his pants growing a bit tight. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to calm down as he followed Arthur down a poorly lit hallway to the bathrooms. He closed the door behind him, latching it, and nearly before he could turn around, Arthur’s hands were on him, his mouth seeking Eli’s. Eli gave a soft whimpering moan as his hand palmed his ass, his other tugging the back of his neck so he could kiss him harder. He leaned forward, standing up on his tiptoes to push back into the kiss, his forehead knocking Arthur’s hat off. He seemed not to notice.

              Pulling back, his breathing ragged, he met those gorgeous blue-green eyes, which were soft in the dimly lit bathroom.

              "You got a condom?" Eli asked, his heart beating hard as lust coursed through him. Arthur fumbled in his pocket for a moment, pulling one out. Arthur turned him around to face the bathroom counter and he unbuckled his belt, sliding his pants and his underwear down. In the bathroom mirror, Eli could see Arthur biting his lower lip as he surveyed his backside. All those squats had paid off, he thought with satisfaction. Arthur’s belt buckle jingled and he slid his pants down as well, palming himself to urgent hardness. Glancing over his shoulder to get a good look at him, Eli nearly moaned. Arthur was perfectly in proportion, long and thick, the head red with desire, curving up and slightly to the left. Arthur rolled the condom on and kissed Eli’s shoulder. He was being oddly tender for a guy who was about to fuck him in a bar bathroom, Eli thought.

              Arthur slid his hand down his back and prodded at his hole with his finger, swirling the tip against the sensitive skin around the pucker of flesh between his cheeks. Eli pressed back into him, letting out a soft whine as Arthur spit on his finger and then pressed it inside of him.

              "Oh fuck," Eli whimpered as he began working him, his blunt fingertip bumping against his prostate, sending a shiver through him that made him curl his toes. Arthur was gentle, going slowly and Eli cursed himself for not being better prepared. He’d only gone to the bar to get a drink, but he knew he really should have been prepared. Lube, at least, he thought. Thankfully, he was buzzed enough to relax and the lubrication on the condom proved enough as Arthur pressed the thick head of his cock against his hole and then sank into him from behind with a rumble of pleasure.

              "Oh, God, you're tight," he murmured, grabbing at his hips and resting his forehead against his back. The thickness of him was beginning to hurt with the way he just stopped, filling him. Eli wiggled, spreading his legs a bit farther apart to ease the dull ache.

              "Fuck me," he asked him, "please." Arthur let out a sound that could only be described as a purr as he began a slow, steady in and out rhythm of thrusts within him. Eli threw his head back, letting soft moans and whines bubble out of his mouth as Arthur fucked him. "Faster," he pleaded, and Arthur obliged, making him have to grab onto the counter to keep his balance as he began a quick, rough pistoning into Eli, the head of his thick cock massaging his prostate as Eli palmed his own cock with his free hand.

              The slap of Arthur’s hips against his own was nearly overwhelming, desire coursing through him as this big man filled him, fucked him until he began to be sore with the girth of him. He growled and moaned behind Eli, clearly enjoying himself. He reached around his hips as his rhythm slowed again, stroking Eli’s cock with a confident hand, occasionally grasping at and massaging his balls until he whined.

              "Can't be in here all night," Arthur muttered in a disappointed tone, and Eli nodded, knowing they needed to finish and get the hell out of here. As though in answer, there was a knock at the door.

              "Fuck," Eli muttered.

              "Just a minute," Arthur called in a strained voice, his thrusts into Eli growing erratic and urgent and at last he felt him clench, heard him make a strangled noise in his throat as he came within him. Eli was nowhere near done, but it would have to wait. Arthur pulled out of him, and Eli yanked his pants up, tucking his uncomfortable erection into his waistband so that it wasn't obvious. "Sorry," Arthur muttered.

              "'S okay," he answered, still breathless from a damn good fucking he wished could have continued. "Shit, how do we get outta here?" he pointed out. Arthur laughed and picked up his hat.

              "Through the door," and with that, he stepped out, Eli following close behind him. The man waiting in line went a little wide-eyed and Eli resisted the urge to give a tittering laugh at his expression. "Follow me," Arthur directed him, and he obliged as the bigger man guided him through the crowded bar and stepped outside into the warm night. Arthur lit a cigarette, sighing out a massive cloud of smoke. He offered Eli a drag, but he shook his head. "Sorry about that. If you, uh, if you wanna come back to my place we can...?"

              His offer stood on the night air, Eli considering it amid the songs of crickets and the buzz of the halogen light above them. Eli shrugged.

              "Sure, why not?" Eli was strong and capable and only a bit smaller than Arthur. Plus, if Arthur had any intention of doing something bad to him, plenty of people had just watched them leave together.

              "Alright." Arthur reached out a hand, took his. Eli was surprised at the gesture, but it wasn't unwelcome. "I don't usually...uh..."

              "I do sometimes," he admitted, thinking of his college years and thanking his lucky stars he’d never caught anything from any of his one-night stands.

              "Want to follow me back to my place, or you want a ride?" Arthur asked.

              "I probly shouldn't drive," Eli admitted. He nodded.

              "That's fine. I can give you a ride back to pick up your car later." With that, Eli followed Arthur to his vehicle, a late eighties Bronco. The door squealed when he opened it, but the leather seats within were well-oiled. The vehicle was clearly well taken care of. Arthur started it up after a temperamental splutter from the engine. He patted the dashboard encouragingly. "You're alright, boah," he told the truck, and Eli had to resist a chuckle.

              The ride to Arthur’s place was pleasant. Eli cranked the window down and Arthur turned on some soft rock. They rode in silence, Eli staring up at the stars, surprised at how many he could see. Arthur pulled into a driveway over which was posted a sign.

              "Van der Linde Ranch," it said in cast-iron letters. The driveway was nearly a half-mile long. Eli was astonished at how big the place seemed, even in the low light.  Cattle could be heard bellowing distantly.

              "Nice place," he commented, seeing the large ranch-style house at the end of the driveway.

              "That's my dads’ place," Arthur corrected him. "I've got an apartment in the barn." He pulled up and put the Bronco in park before shutting it off. Looking over at Eli, Arthur met his eyes intently. "You still want to come inside?" he asked, as though he hadn't just ridden with him for nearly twenty minutes to get to his place with express purpose of fucking.

              "Sure," Eli said, and he followed him into the barn and up a set of stairs to a surprisingly nice apartment that took up the whole second story of the building. Eli followed him into the kitchen, looking around at his decor. A lot of blue, and a lot of paintings of landscapes and cowboys on horseback. The dude clearly longed for simpler times. He poured Eli a glass of water and he accepted it thankfully, meandering into his living room and looking over his bookcase. Lots of books about horses and cattle, several dimestore western novels, including all of Louis Lamour's work. There were several cowboy hats hanging on a rack and an assortment of western style boots cluttered the floor beneath it. The dude was the real deal, he thought with a small smile.

              "So, you, uh…?" Arthur started, scratching the back of his head awkwardly.

              "Sure," Eli said softly, setting his glass down on the glass coffee table and stepping up to him. He reached a hand up and cupped the back of Arthur’s head, pulling him down for a kiss. Arthur’s hands roamed over his body, cupping his groin and pushing him back onto his plush leather couch. For a few minutes, they just ground together, Arthur bringing Eli back to arousal, his big hands massaging his shoulders, his ass. Given that Arthur was in his mid-thirties at least, Eli was impressed when he felt him growing erect again too. He moaned beneath the bigger man as he thrusted through his pants against Eli. Unzipping Eli’s pants, Arthur pulled him out, surveying his cock for a moment in the way one would observe a painting at a museum. It was like he thought Eli was a work of art.

              Arthur pulled Eli’s t-shirt off and he laid beneath him on the couch, allowing Arthur to strip away his pants and underwear so that he was naked beneath Arthur’s massive body.

              "You are gorgeous," he told Eli.

              "You aren't bad yourself, cowboy," Eli grinned back, palming him through his jeans.

              "Mmmph," Arthur made a sound of pleasure and went to his knees between his legs, taking his cock into his mouth and sucking expertly.

              "Oh fuck," Eli mumbled, biting his own knuckle as the warmth and wetness of his mouth slid over him. Eli met those too-blue eyes and watched his thick pink lips sucked tight against his cock and felt himself twitch, spurting precum into his mouth. Eli worked his fingers into Arthur’s hair, setting his hat to the side and tangling in the soft locks as Arthur continued his ministrations, letting Eli pump into his mouth. Eli threw his head back and let open-mouthed whines pour out. After a moment, Arthur stood, holding up a finger to indicate that he would be back. He returned with another condom and slid it onto himself.

              "Want to go again?" he asked in a husky voice.

              "Yes," Eli answered immediately.

              "Come here, then," Arthur purred and Eli followed him to his bedroom, letting Arthur lay him down and kiss him tenderly. This time Arthur put Eli on his back, his legs resting on his shoulders as Arthur pressed into him, this time adding lube, which made everything feel smoother and even better than before. Eli huffed a small whine as Arthur’s cock pressed into his prostate and a sticky string of precum leaked onto his belly. This time as he fucked Eli, Arthur slid his hand up and down his shaft, matching the movements of his hips with his hand. Eli reached his arms up and scratched at the thick muscles of his back and his arms, grasping at Arthur as he panted, his hips rolling into Eli’s as he hung on for dear life. After what seemed only a short time later, Eli felt himself come undone, spurting cum over his chest and belly with a surprised look. This big country fella had really pushed all the right buttons for him, Eli realized, blushing. Arthur thrusted into him still, milking the last of his orgasm until he felt empty and exhausted.

              "Jesus, that was...really good," Eli said softly when Arthur pulled out and disposed of the condom, bringing him a warm wet rag to clean himself up. Eli did so and turned on his side as Arthur joined him on the bed.

              "If you wanna stay, that's fine, I just got work early in the mornin'," he said, "So you’d have to stay all day until I get back. It's Saturday, though, if you just wanted to laze around my place."

              "I've actually got a few things I need to do tomorrow," Eli admitted, curious about what Arthur did for a living that required him to work on a Saturday, but not wanting to ask, not wanting to get too attached. "Can you give me a ride back to my jeep? I'm pretty sober now."

              "Sure. Have another glass of water before we go," Arthur advised, and he did so, feeling his head clear even more, feeling oddly appreciative of Arthur’s concern for him. In the clarity of being sober, Eli was a little embarrassed, his cheeks going red as he gathered his scattered clothing and pulled it back on. He really liked Arthur.

              "I had a really good time," he told Arthur as he climbed out of his Bronco once they made it back to the bar.

              "I did too," Arthur said, taking his hand again. Eli frowned slightly. He wasn't sure he wanted to start anything with someone so soon moving to a new place. Hell, he hadn't even met his co-workers yet and he was barely moved in to his new house. Now wasn't really the time. But those big blue eyes. Jesus, Arthur was gorgeous. "If you ever want to...do anything like that again, or...maybe just get a coffee or a beer...?" Arthur pulled a leather bound book out of his glovebox, wrote down something and then tore a piece of the page out, handing it to Eli. There was a number written on it, and when Eli looked back up at him, Arthur’s expression was earnestly hopeful. Eli smiled.

              "I'll let you know," he said, a non-answer. Eli watched as he drove away and stared at the slip of paper. Where had he seen that number before? Well. Didn’t matter. He would probably never call.

              The rest of Eli’s weekend was spent unpacking boxes and organizing. There were a few things he needed to really make the house a home, but it would have to wait until his first paycheck. In the meantime, he reviewed a few of his textbooks and watched television, trying very hard not to think about the slip of paper stuck to the fridge with a magnet.

              Monday came too soon and Eli woke up early, pulling on a scrub top, a pair of jeans and a pair of leather work boots before climbing into his jeep and using Google Maps to find the clinic. It appeared nice on the outside, clean lines and a barn that looked oddly similar to Arthur's place. Damn. He really had to get that guy out of his head, he thought, stepping into the clinic lobby.

              "Good morning, do you have an appointment?" asked a beleaguered looking vet tech with a slight stutter. He had a wispy beard and was wearing a simple straw hat with his turquoise scrubs, giving him a gawky appearance.

              "I'm the new vet, actually, Dr. Jensen. Supposed to start today."

              "Oh! Well, welcome, welcome!" he greeted you, holding out a hand awkwardly since his other arm was pinning half a dozen file folders to his side. "I'm Kieran Duffy, it's sure nice to meet you. Let me go get Doc."

              The small man disappeared and Eli stared around the lobby, noting the decor. Landscapes. Cowboys on horseback. His eyes trailed to the massive diploma on the wall.

              "Texas A&M University To all to whom these presents may come greeting be it known that Arthur Morgan having completed the studies and satisfied the requirements..." The rest of the words blurred as shock filled him.

              "Oh shit," he mumbled, just as a big man lumbered into the lobby.

              "Morning, I hear our new...doctor...oh..." Eli stared at Arthur, feeling the blood drain from his face, remembering what Arthur’s lips looked like when he orgasmed, remembering what his cock looked like buried inside of him...Eli swallowed.

              "Uh, hey," Eli greeted lamely. "I'm Dr. Jensen. Dr. Eli Mark Jensen."

[christiandomme]

What are your baseline rules for any sub?

I actually only have two that are absolute bedrock: 

Honesty about your condition. 

My standard check in with my sub requires an update on physical/mental/emotional axes. 

I want to know what is sore or strained. I want to know how tired you are. Do you think a head cold might be coming on? 

I want to know if you are struggling with any negative thoughts or if you feel you’ve earned a reward or punishment I haven’t noticed. 

I want to know where you are emotionally. Euphoric? On the ragged edge of holding yourself together? I want to know whatever the raw truth is. 

I will use that information to decide how and if we play. If you’ve given yourself to me, you’ve also given me the right to all that information. I’m not looking to be in a dynamic where that transparency isn’t foundational. 

You are required to inform me if you drop. 

I’ve learned to include this in opening conversations. Even before a dynamic or formal negotiation is in place, I need this to be an agreed to stipulation. The only exception is if you have another partner that is in the bdsm loop and will better respond in person. Even then, I will want to know in the after action. 

I’ve had someone start dropping from a super casual conversation. Neither of us expected them to tip over into subspace and fall out the bottom in less than fifteen minutes but it happened. 

And I’ve had a sub start dropping after we thought he was out of the danger zone. I hadn’t left explicit instructions on what to do and trying to puzzle out an action plan is no easy thing when you’re dropping. He didn’t call me. We now have a permanent rule on how to handle that. From these two incidents is born rule #2.

Rule three is so much less weighty: no swearing

I know, I know. I just don't like it! And because I respect the agency of the loved ones in my life I make my preferences and comfort level known and they do with that info what they will. Which is swear like ex-Navy truckers, basically, lol. I don't try to berate or guilt them. But, Dom perks, I don't have to put up with it in my dynamics, so I don’t. This isn’t technically bedrock but it’s up there on ways I make a Dom space comfortable for myself.

Legitimately, everything else that’s not a hard limit for me is negotiable. I am a very flexible Dom ;-)

[meeksimpactlaw]

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At Morgan & Morgan, our attorneys are well-versed in these laws and how they may overlap, and are additionally expert in dealing with negotiations with multiple events concurrently. In every case involving truck accidents, our lawyers put together each case for trial — even if we work towards an out-of-court settlement, our trial preparations give us an edge in negotiations. Contact our Georgia truck accident lawyers or fill out our consumption georgia truck accident attorneys type as quickly as possible for a free preliminary session. After a truck accident, flip to representation with the skill and data to get results. Our founding attorney, Katherine McArthur, brings over forty years of expertise to the table.

[artificialqueens]

TROIKA (Trixie/Alaska feat. Katya) 1/9 - Spoky

A/N: And so it begins… @veronicasanders & @fryshook, Ta, mates.

Summary: You can’t choose who you fall in love with and sometimes it’s inconvenient; it’s challenging, cumbersome, difficult and pushes you in directions you previously thought impossible. This is a story about negotiating love when everything you thought you knew about family, relationships and sex proves to be insufficient.

TROIKA

May, 2015

Boystown was supporting its regular Saturday night buzz. Brian had seen two bachelorette parties before even reaching Halsted street and a boy in a purple tank-top had tricked him into accepting a flyer for a new massage parlour in Chinatown. The address was on the same street as Kimski, the odd Korean-Polish fusion restaurant Kim liked to visit hungover. Brian folded the leaflet and stuffed it into his rear pocket as he turned right from Newport avenue and continued his way to Roscoe’s.

It was surprisingly warm for early May and he’d been wandering around in the streets of Chicago, making sure to arrive fashionably late to avoid the line. He crossed Roscoe street with couple of quick leaps and lifted his hand as a thank you to the cab driver that had slowed down to wait for him. Muffled music was echoing from the bar as he reached the familiar red telephone booth next to Roscoe’s Tavern and took notice of the small but surprisingly diverse group of men who had gathered to smoke next to it.

“Hey, dude,” one of them approached Brian as he passed. “You don’t happen to have a lighter?”

“Sorry,” Brian said and shook his head apologetically. “Don’t smoke.”

“Worth a shot, thanks anyway,” the man said, shrugged and turned back to his friends as Brian proceeded to the entrance.

“Ticket and ID?” the bouncer asked in deep bass and Brian paused to find the VIP wristband Kim had given him earlier. “Isn’t that Trixie?” He could hear one of the other guys drawl as he searched through his wallet. Where had he put the damn thing?

“Who’s Trixie?” a deeper voice asked and Brian chuckled as he pulled the silver paper wristband out of his wallet, flashed it to the bouncer with a half grin and pulled his sleeve up to put it on.

“You know, the Barbie from Drag Race, with the weird makeup. She was eliminated yesterday, again.”

“Look, babe,” a new voice joined the conversation. “I promised to come to see this show with you, alright? But that doesn’t mean that I actually care.”

Fair, Brian thought, and refreshing. Maybe he could date the guy? He was tempted to turn around and take a better look.

“But she’s famous!”

“You the Barbie?” the bouncer chortled at Brian as he extended his neck to look at the crowd standing couple of feet away. Clearly amused, he brushed over his thick moustache while eyeing the men behind Brian.

“I’m afraid so,” Brian admitted quietly and lifted his wrist up to show that he was appropriately tagged for the party. He tried his best to insinuate with his eyebrows that he didn’t want to deal with the Drag Race fan behind him.

The bouncer got the hint.

“Well in that case,” the man joked and opened the door, “Welcome to Roscoe’s!” he announced as he pushed Brian inside, closing the door behind him. The guy who had recognised Brian as Trixie had no time to react.

Brian shook his head at the encounter as he stepped into the crowded bar and studied the familiar space; the red walls and dark wood, the ugly lamps that reminded him of cracked in half egg shells hanging from the ceiling. Choices. The staff had yet to take his advice to reduce the random, and apparently steadily growing, selection of paper decorations that hung above the bar in faded rainbow colours. Stepping into Roscoe’s felt like coming home. A home you were about to sell at a severely reduced price after a messy divorce, but home; and it was crammed with interested buyers.

Brian glanced around. Roscoe’s was never this packed when the local Chicago queens performed, and Trixie would probably never attract a similar audience, but it was nice to dream. He wiggled his way to the bar between the warm bodies, muttering off-handed apologies and trying not to step on anyone’s toes along his way. He could feel people getting annoyed at him and someone shoved his shoulder, trying to hurry him along. As he finally reached the bar top and sighed in relief, he heard an amused snort at his left.

“Don’t get your hopes up. The twinks are not here to make money.”

Brian glanced up and was faced with a hefty, older man in a light blue shirt. His bushy grey eyebrows were drawn into an annoyed frown and he was tapping his debit card against the bar with steady slow clicks.

“Sorry?”

“The staff,” the man said and pointed at the other end where the young bartenders had gathered to watch the performance.

Brian rolled his eyes and stretched his neck to see the stage himself. Jinkx Monsoon stood tall in her heels and carrot orange curls as she dragged the final note of Creep before thanking the audience that roared in appreciation. Brian also caught a glimpse of a pink banner above the stage; the clearly hand painted cursive “JUSTICE FOR TRIXIE” causing the corners of his mouth to curl upwards in approval. Alaska and Jinkx clearly knew their audience.

Brian had seen pictures and videos of Alaska’s shows previously, but this was the first time he witnessed one of her Trixie-banners in person. It made him feel somehow appreciated, as if an older sister, who you knew would fucking murder you if you stepped into their room without permission, was standing up for you against The Plastics. It was nice to get some recognition and while Trixie Mattel would never be crowned America’s Next Drag Superstar, watching Alaska step onto the stage and take over the entire bar with her mere presence was enough to convince Brian that the crown, and the title, were not everything. There would be other opportunities, other platforms.

Someone tapped him lightly on the shoulder and he turned back to the elderly man on his left. The man was holding a drink and nodded his head towards the bar.

“Turns out, they do want to get tipped.”

With his Coors Light finally in hand Brian found a spot in the audience, readjusted his trucker cap and laughed at the joke Alaska Thunderfuck had cracked on the stage. She really was brilliant and sometimes Brian thought she should’ve won season five, but maybe America just hadn’t been ready for yet another freak show after Miss Needles? He took a sip of his beer and frowned at the two girls that were leaning to each other, crying dramatically.

“I can’t believe we’re actually here!”

“I know, we’re so blessed and this is so amazing. I love her so much and I hate that they’re not doing a meet‘n’greet but, like, at least we – hey! Are you listening?”

Brian closed his eyes briefly, reminded himself that the monetary value of a dollar bill from a whiny straight girl was equal to the dollar bills from everyone else, and concentrated back on Alaska. Her long blonde, bird’s nest of hair, her black paper dress and the magnificent voice that cracked on purpose, making the audience laugh. Brian had to wonder if the queen ever took singing seriously. As the number ended and as Alaska disappeared backstage Brian watched Trannika Rex take her place. It was good to be back in Boystown, surrounded by familiar faces. He turned to walk back to the bar, only to be interrupted in mid step by none other than Shea Couleé.

“Girl!” Shea drawled her greeting as she pulled Brian into a loose hug. “Good to see you!”

Brian couldn’t even remember when he’d last seen the queen. It had been way too long.

“Well, you know. If the other RuGirls take the risk of being seen with you, I figured I could too,” Brian said and blew an air kiss in the direction of Shea’s left cheek, carefully avoiding her makeup.

“Don’t start, Firkus,” Shea chuckled. “You know you can’t keep up.”

Brian knew it to be true and gladly moved to a safer ground. They exchanged some newsworthy updates on who was dating who, who was getting most gigs and what was going on in the Chicago drag scene in general. Brian had just avoided a question about Drag Race when Shea was called back to work.

“You should come backstage,” Shea invited. “The others would love to see you.”

Brian hesitated. He knew that at some point he would have to get more acquainted with RuGirls beyond his season and he really wanted to catch up with the Chicago girls, so as Shea pulled him along, Brian gave in. It would be better to get over his insecurities right now, before he would actually have to work with the famous queens, which was actually a real possibility. The thought of it still freaked him out slightly.

Brian stepped into the dressing room one step behind Shea and was immediately introduced to Jinkx and Alaska as Trixie Mattel. He stayed for the brief and required pleasantries, but quickly made his way to the safety of his old friends as the other two RuGirls kept joking back and forth in Golden Girls references.

“Are they always so intimating?” Brian asked Shea, causing the queen laugh loudly.

“Says the clown currently on Logo,” Trannika snorted. “You’ll be equally intimidating in no time.”

“Doubt it,” Brian said and shivered. He couldn’t imagine Trixie becoming as famous or successful as Jinkx or Alaska, hell, Trixie hadn’t made it to even top five! He would be ever so lucky if he could land some more gigs for a while and make enough connections to find a well-paying job behind the scenes of the industry. That way, he wouldn’t have to worry about money and could continue drag as a hobby. He glanced back to Alaska and Jinkx, and concluded that while they played the same sport, Alaska and Jinkx had established their place in the Major League, while Trixie still dabbled with the minors. Quite literally, if one looked at her fanbase.

Kim’s dress emergency interrupted Brian’s train of thought and he followed in slight amusement as Shea rushed to her bag for some safety pins before the fabric could tear further.

“Anyone got translucent nail polish?” Kim asked, holding the fraying chiffon with pursed lips.

“What?” Brian asked, turning at Kim with knitted brows. What did she need nail polish for?

“Yeah,” Alaska interjected from the other side of the room. “I think I do.”

Brian was surprised that Alaska had listened into the conversation and felt a little self-conscious that she might’ve heard his earlier comments as well. He watched her find a half used 15ml top coat nail varnish from her suitcase and hand it to Shea, who snatched the bottle with a cheerful “Thank you”.

“See,” Shea sneered, looking down her nose at Brian as she passed. “That’s what we call professionalism. Take notes, honey.”

Brian spread his hands in an exaggerated ‘What the fuck’-gesture and raised his brows at Shea, his mouth open. “What did I do?” he asked, bewildered.

“It’s more about what you didn’t do,” Kim explained as she offered the fabric to Shea to fix.

Brian snorted and rolled his eyes while taking a sip from his beer. He was often the butt of the joke for Shea and Kim and as Trannika was still staring at her phone, he wouldn’t get any help from there, either. He was also suddenly very aware of Alaska in the room, even if she had returned to her conversation with Jinkx. They were talking about their previous show together and how they should throw more shade at their season five sisters.

“- still bitter about that,” Alaska laughed brightly. “She really wanted to make it to the top.”

“Oh honey, she can top me,” Jinkx cackled, sending Alaska to a round of giggles. “Top me until I’ve had it-” she waited for Alaska to pick up the cue, “- officially!” they roared together.

Brian chuckled quietly at their antics and followed with curiosity as Jinkx sighed, getting a little somber.

“Seriously, though,” she said, looking at the floor. “I hope she gets over it. For my sake.”

Alaska nodded at the statement and placed her hand on Jinkx’s knee in comfort. “Another drink?”

The suggestion made Jinkx smile and she turned to the Chicago queens.

“Ladies!” she announced brightly, catching everyone’s attention. “Cocktails, anyone?”

“We’re up in a minute,” Kim declined, nodding to Trannika, who was still on her phone.

“Yeah, like five minutes ago,” Trannika corrected and Shea and Kim turned to her swiftly.

“What?!” they chorused in panic. Trannika gave them a tired look over her phone, cocking her eyebrows mockingly.

“Jesus fuck,” Shea laughed in relief. “You got me.”

Trannika rolled her eyes and dropped her mobile into the bag that was lying in her feet.

“We do need to go, though,” she added and started to walk towards the stage, pulling Kim with her.

“Cosmos or Margaritas?” Shea asked and got up from the floor while rolling the nail polish bottle shut. She walked to Jinks and handed the borrowed item back to Alaska with another “Thank you”.

“I’m feeling adventurous,” Jinkx smirked and got up, hooking her arm around Shea’s. “Let’s get something new!”

Shea grinned widely and took a step towards the exit. “I know just the thing,” she said cunningly and looked at Alaska. “And you, mam?”

Alaska chuckled and shook her head.

“Her loss,” Shea snorted and lead Jinkx out of the dressing room.

Brian stared after the pair and took yet another sip of his beer. He decided to believe that his half full bottle was the main reason why he hadn’t been included in the invitation, rather than Shea just being a shady bitch. It was probably both, and he sighed in frustration. He was extremely aware of the silence between himself and Alaska and browsed his collection of appropriate small talk topics. He got nothing, though, and the silence stretched; he couldn’t think. It was getting more awkward by the second. He blamed it on the alcohol and Alaska’s intimidating aura.

He cleared his throat and stood up. “Right, then,” he said, intending to come up with an excellent but probably obvious excuse to leave. I’m tired, work tomorrow, long day, you know the gist, or something along those lines, but before he had time to come up with anything remotely acceptable, Alaska asked him a question.

“When did you start doing Trixie?”

Brian blinked. Of course! That’s what you talked about with other drag queens, drag! Why hadn’t he thought of that?

“Umm,” he said frowning. When had he started doing drag? Why had he started doing drag? What was drag? Before he could sink further into his existential crisis, he took a seat at one of the stools nearby, hoping that the position would calm down his nerves.

“I was eighteen and needed to like, fill in for this guy in a play,” he said, trying to remember the details. “I guess it started from there.”

Alaska nodded and Brian blinked. Oh, right. It was his turn to ask something. That was how conversations worked.

“How about you?”

Alaska chuckled. She took a better position on the sofa and kicked off her heels, wiggling her toes in relief as she launched into a long explanation about her fascination with drag as a form of performative art, but also as a medium to explore gender and connect with people in the gay community. Brian started to slowly relax as he listened to her talk and soon realised that he was nodding along, agreeing with a lot of things Alaska was saying.

“-and you never make enough from just tips-”

“Tell me about it-”

“-right, exactly! And it was just fun, you know-”

It was interesting how quickly Alaska made Brian feel at ease and as they eventually branched out to different topics, Brian suddenly realised that he was having an actual conversation with the Queen Supreme; a conversation beyond the conventional drag-lingo and trade-talk laced with pop-culture references. The discussion was actually more along the lines of a drunken Uber ramble about emotions and the purpose of life, but neither of them were plastered, which made the situation ever so slightly more absurd.

“It’s not that I don’t want to get ‘married’,” Alaska explained, putting actual quotation marks around the word with her fingers. “I just don’t see why we need to call it marriage. I’m all for stable, loving, equal relationships and rights. I just think we need little more imagination over what is family, and what kind of relationships work within the community.”

“But if someone wants that? A monogamous, committed relationship with kids and a mortgage?”

“Well that’s their choice,” Alaska agreed, nodding, while removing her makeup with some wipes. “I just think that this obsession with marriage has left a lot of other important issues undiscussed and that it leaves out a lot of queers who don’t, like, fit into the system,” she continued and pulled a tight, black t-shirt over her head, serving average Joe gay club realness.

“So, you’re saying that they don’t deserve to be stoned to death for not leading STD-ridden pink fluffy flamboyantly homosexual unicorn lives?” Brian asked, raising his eyebrows in fake outrage as he threw a bottle cap in the air and caught it, as if ready to throw it at the next offensively hetero gay-guy that stepped into the room.

“No!” Alaska shrieked a laugh and leaned to the dresser for balance. The way Alaska laughed, the total surrender to the feeling as her knees bent, her mouth opened and her eyes formed two feline lines made Brian smile. It was was contagious, the way in which she laughed, gasping for breath, voice slightly higher and a lot more hoarse than what Brian would’ve expected. Just looking at her struggle through made Brian want to do it again, to say something funny to keep her entertained. The feeling was similar to the one he’d experienced with Katya, but while with Katya he felt more like an equal, that they were laughing together, making each other laugh, with Alaska it was definitely him that made her laugh.

Alaska got up and dropped her knee high boots on top of her suitcase while still trying to calm her breath. She stepped closer to Brian, slightly too close to Brian’s liking and as he was about to lean back she extended a long, slender arm towards him.

“Justin,” he introduced himself. “Nice to meet you.”

Brian took the offered hand and gave it a firm squeeze. “Brian.”

Justin’s skin felt cold against Brian’s and he was surprised to realise that Justin’s hands were actually bigger than his. Alaska looked so small and gangly on stage that Brian had managed to forget that underneath the makeup and hairspray there was actually a man with testosterone boosted bone-structure.

“I know,” Justin smiled and Brian realised the handshake was getting slightly longer than what was necessary.

The comment took Brian by surprise and he had blurted out a “You do?” before he had time to catch himself.

Justin chuckled, finally releasing Brian’s hand and leaving behind a tingly feeling that Brian promptly wiped against his thigh.

“I looked you up, was kinda hoping you’d make it to the top.”

“Aww,” Brian drawled, “I bet you say that to all of the girls.”

He took a sip of his beer and hoped his blush wasn’t showing despite that he could feel his neck and cheeks warm up. Justin grinned in response, shaking his head slightly before he suddenly extended his hand to Brian once more.

“Come on, Barbie doll, let’s go dance!”

Brian blinked. It had been almost two hours since the show had ended and without a meet and greet most of the overly fanatic fans had probably disappeared. Jinkx had left the venue without problems thirty minutes ago, but Brian wasn’t sure if it was the wisest decision to go dance in Roscoe’s tonight. The possibility of the evening turning into an unorganised, free meet and greet was a little too real.

“I dunno, man,” Brian hesitated. “Like, I’m in, but do you, like, do you think they’ll actually leave you to it?”

Justin pursed his lips and let his hand fall back to his side. Brian could see the man was disappointed and for whatever reason felt like he needed to fix the situation. Fortunately, he knew the perfect place if one wanted to shake off some race chasers.

“Ok, wait,” Brian said, swiping out his phone. “I’ve got an idea.”

Seeing the hopeful smile rising on Justin’s lips made Brian feel better. He found Shea’s number from the contact list and lifted the phone to his ear. Luck was on his side and the queen picked up after one short ring.

“Hey, yeah- Look- Look- Listen! Can we leave Justin’s- Alaska’s, stuff in the backroom if we grab a cab to Rogers Park?” Brian asked and lifted his hand up as a sign for Justin to wait as Shea made some enquiries.

“Awesome, thanks girl,” Brian ended the call with a wide grin. “I know a place.”

*  *

A cab ride from Boystown to Rogers Park on a Wednesday would’ve taken a quarter of an hour, so Brian wasn’t too upset when the taxi driver pulled next to Touché just twenty minutes later. Justin insisted paying and stepped to the street, clearly excited.

“A leather bar?” he exclaimed seeing the crowd at the entrance and stared at Brian his mouth open. “Giiirl, you don’t look like the type!”

Brian slammed the cab door closed and turned to Justin, raising his eyebrows as if offended. “And what type is that?”

“You know,” Justin grinned and gave him a quick once over with a shrug. “A little Green Acres.”

Brian flipped the tall queen the finger and sneered before turning towards the bar, only to realise that the line consisted of women, only women.

“Shit,” he swore and glanced at the poster at Touché’s window. Of course he’d picked the only lesbian night of the month to drag Justin out of Boystown. What now? The only viable option seemed like Dino’s but he’d never been in the damn place. “I’m sorry, man, I think it’s a ladies night.”

Justin glanced at the line and pursed his lips.

“They’re a little more lax at Jackhammer tonight.”

Brian turned to the woman smoking nearby and noticed her Touché staff t-shirt as she smiled at Brian comfortingly.

“Yeah?” he asked, renewed hope lighting his face.

“Yeah, because of us,” the woman snorted and nodded towards the poster. “Worth checking out at least” she finished, eyeing between them. Brian was sure she had concluded Jackhammer wasn’t really their scene, and she was right. It wasn’t.

“Yeah alright, thanks,” Brian nodded and pulled Justin with him as he started to walk down Clark Street.

“Jackhammer?” Justin asked, taking a couple of leaps to catch up with Brian.

“Another leather bar,” Brian explained, adjusting his red trucker cap. They would never get in dressed like this. “Come on, let’s try.”

Brian turned right at the first corner and walked to the surprisingly short line. As they reached the door the bouncer gave them one look before an assertive: “No.”

“Come on, man, we’ll go straight down.”

Brian didn’t know what had made him volunteer Justin for the experience of the Hole without any preceding consultation, but as he bouncer lifted his eyebrows in challenge Brian got more determined.

“Please?” he asked, tilting his head at the man. “We just came from Boystown and Touché is seized by horny lesbians.”

The bouncer rolled his eyes and opened the door reluctantly. “I don’t want to see you upstairs.”

“Roger that,” Brian nodded, grabbed Justin’s wrist and pulled the man inside.

Jackhammer catered to a totally different audience from Roscoe’s. Instead of superfluous Axe deodorant and stingy cheap hairspray, from the moment you stepped into the bar you could smell the mixture of testosterone-laden sweat, dried up alcohol and rubber.

Brian led Justin left from the main bar, towards the narrow metal stairs that lead down to the cellar, or like most affectionately referred to the place, the Hole. There was a man in a full rubber body suit and knee high boots guarding the entrance.

“You need to strip,” Brian said to Justin, who raised his eyebrows in question. “It’s a fetish thing. Leather, rubber, sports gear or underwear,” he explained and started to unbutton his shirt.  

“You’re joking,” Justin said through a laugh, eyeing Brian in amusement.

Brian just raised his eyebrows, gave Justin a tired look of a ‘Really girl?’ and opened his fly.

“I take my earlier statement back,” Justin smirked as he pulled his top off.

Brian decided not to point out that he rarely visited Jackhammer, the Hole even less. He’d just wanted to get Justin out of Roscoe’s and Touché had popped to his mind. He hadn’t had any initial intentions to take Justin anywhere near as adventurous as the Hole, and if that made him vanilla, or ‘a little Green Acres’, as Justin had put it, so be it.

Without respecting Justin’s commentary with a reply, Brian proceeded with his undressing. He tried not to stare too much as Justin stripped down to his purple Calvin Klein briefs and revealed the narrowest hips Brian had ever seen, decorated with an admirable bulge underneath. Brian was suddenly grateful that his own checkered boxer shorts hid successfully, not only his chubby butt but also his averaged sized genitalia.

They stuffed some money into their shoes, following the lead of the men lining up in front of them, and deposited their clothes before stepping into the sparsely decorated cellar.

The air felt heavy as the crowd moved with the music, the volume leaving some room for conversation. At their left there was a man strapped to a Saint Andrew’s cross and a strong bear was spanking him with a crop as he moaned for the crowd’s entertainment. At their right, the space expanded to another room and a dark hallway. Brian could smell the sex.

“Drink?” he asked Justin who was taking in their surroundings, his lips slightly ajar. Brian could see Justin’s breaths getting shallower and his eyes clouding with admiration of the amount of exposed, naked skin. Brian smirked at Justin’s reaction and concluded that he hadn’t made a completely wrong judgment call by bringing him here. He grabbed Justin’s wrist once more and pulled him to the bar, trying to avoid the sweatiest bodies, intentionally brushing against some of the attractive ones.

“Two Jack and Cokes,” he ordered without checking Justin’s preference and felt a hand on his shoulder. He started to turn but halted as he felt Justin’s lips on his cheek and pulled back after the accidental collision.

“Becks Blue, if they have,” Justin said, licking his lips and Brian could feel his warm breath against his cheek. He nodded, but as he turned back to the bartender the man had already disappeared.

Brian didn’t come to the Hole often because Josh, his promiscuous ex, did. Like Justin just moments ago, Josh had also referred to Brian as vanilla at their first encounter. Brian didn’t necessarily object to the observation but neither did he understand why one might accept a leather harness and a rubber suit but disapprove of a pink, tulle dress or a pair of size 13 stilettos in the wardrobe. Obviously, they had eventually broken up for more pressing reasons than preferred play outfits but ever since Brian had avoided Jackhammer. The bartender was back and placed two plastic cups in front of them.

“And a Becks Blue,” Brian completed the order. He could feel Justin’s hand slip away from his shoulder and turned to look.

Justin was leaning back, looking at his left with slightly squinted eyes. He licked his lips and raised his chin to reveal and bring attention to his neck and prominent collarbones. The sight made Brian’s cock twitch and it wasn’t even him that Justin was cruising. The fact that Brian was leaning against the dirty bar top to get them drinks as Justin was getting eyefucked by a stranger made Brian simultaneously annoyed and jealous. Annoyed at his own insecurities – he’d never picked up the art of cruising – and jealous of the fact that Justin had already set his eyes on someone. Brian downed half of one of the drinks in his reach to calm down his reactions; the arousal as well as the peeking jealousy. Then the bartender was back and placed a bottle of Becks onto the bar top. Brian blinked at the silver label that red “alcohol free” in bright red and chuckled at the absurdity that Alaska Thunderfuck was sober. He turned to Justin, placing his hand on the man’s waist.

“Here,” he said and handed him the bottle. “You don’t drink?”

Justin smiled in response. “Not excessively anymore, no,” he said and took a sip.

“Come on, Barbie, let’s dance.”

Dancing in the Hole is a little different to dancing at Roscoe’s. There is a real chance that the couple next to you are fondling each other’s dicks that might, or might not be hidden by their jockstraps. It is not unusual for someone to grab your ass in admiration or to reach out to feel your biceps at passing. If you make your way into the dark hidden corners, you can witness slow blowjobs and leather daddies getting rimmed. Alternatively, if watching is not your thing, you can partake to a discussion of the contemporary political climate or Game of Thrones while getting fucked to the rhythm of Air’s Sexy Boy.

The Hole was definitely not the most conventional of queer spaces and as such, it was a little out of Brian’s comfort zone. Surprisingly enough, Justin seemed completely at ease as he surrendered to the beat.

*  *

An hour or so later, Brian stepped out of the bathroom, drying his wet hands on his boxers, and made his way back to the bar for his third drink. He’d left Justin in the crowd three songs ago, but figured the man could handle himself for a little while longer. Having learned from his earlier mistake he avoided touching the bar top as he waited for the bartender and suddenly felt a large, warm hand on his waist.

“It’s hard to get your attention.”

The voice was definitely not Justin’s.

Brian turned to look and took in the short but beautifully built man. Large, dark tattoos covered his well-formed chest and shoulders and there was a clear appreciative glimmer in his gaze as he studied Brian.

“It is?” Brian asked and wanted to smack himself. He sounded like a lost cub on his first night out in the BearCity.

The man smirked and nodded as he stroked Brian’s side. Then he leaned closer, as if going to whisper something, but halted midway before backing away. “I’m sorry,” he said squinting his eyes. “Didn’t realise you were taken.”

Brian blinked, confused at the way in which the man took a step back, his warm hand disappearing from Brian’s waist, only to be replaced with a lot colder touch.

“No harm done,” Justin drawled and pressed his entire upper body against Brian’s side as he wrapped his right arm around Brian’s shoulders.

Brian felt like an outsider following the situation and couldn’t quite get to the bottom of it. Was Justin seriously cockblocking him right now? He threw an annoyed glance at him and opened his mouth but didn’t get a turn to speak up as Justin crashed their mouths together in a clumsy, forceful kiss.

Brian froze, staring at Justin cross-eyed. His heart was hammering in his chest and he didn’t know what to do with his hands, which left them hovering in mid air. Justin had closed his eyes and while Brian was pretty certain the man was not in a regular habit of hooking up with his colleagues, Alaska did have a history of RuGirl kai-kai. Brian had dismissed Justin as a potential hook up, despite their light flirting on the dance floor, which Brian had at the time dismissed as a show for the other men. Additionally, Brian hadn’t thought of himself as Justin’s type the slightest. Now, however, he felt the need to reconsider. Maybe Justin really was into his midwestern single-dad aesthetic? Brian was just about to open his lips, wrap his arms around Justin’s incredibly narrow hips and pull the man closer, when Justin stepped back.

“I’m sor-”

Brian didn’t let him finish but tilted his head and brought his lips gently back against Justin’s, pulling the man firmly against him, chest to chest. He could feel Justin tense and hold his breath as Brian traced his lower lip with his tongue. Brian’s heart was pounding, making him slightly dizzy and he thought he’d misjudged the situation completely as Justin dithered. Well, fuck. But then slowly, almost shyly, Justin parted his lips and leaned into the kiss. He smelled of cigarettes and tasted of stale beer, neither of which made it to Brian’s list of favorites things, but the way in which Justin’s slimmer frame pressed against him and the way in which his hold got stronger, rougher; and particularly the way in which he trapped Brian’s lower lip into gentle bites at times, those Brian might add to the list.

The kiss ended with Justin pulling his head up and pressing his forehead against Brian’s as they tried to calm their breaths.

Brian didn’t know what to say or where to go from there, his hands still wrapped around Justin’s waist; their bodies pressed together, Justin’s cold fingers in Brian’s neck. He could feel Justin’s arousal against his thigh and licked his lips, not quite certain if he himself was responsible for it, or if it was the Hole and the men in it, possibly even just the atmosphere. He had to say something, though, preferably before the silence between them got too awkward.

“What were you going to say?” he asked.

“Oh, um,” Justin hesitated and bit his lip, refusing to meet Brian’s eyes. “Nothing.”

Brian swallowed. Justin’s body language revealed that ‘nothing’ had definitely been something , but Brian had no way of knowing what and asking again was out of the question. So he decided to ignore the uneasy feeling the situation left him with and was about to turn to the bar to get his drink, determined to ignore, and eventually hopefully forget, the entire encounter when Justin surprised him yet again.

“Do you- Umm… Do you wanna get out of here?”

Despite his shock, or maybe because of it, Brian nodded.

*   *

The hotel Justin was staying at was nicer than what Brian had expected. The walls were white and the floors wooden, and while there was a lot to be desired from the receptionist that kept sneering at them as they had waited for the elevator, at least the flowers at her desk were real.

The silence between them had moved beyond awkwardness as neither of them had volunteered to break it since the second cab ride of the night, both choosing to enjoy the silent sexual charge; the brief moments their eyes met as they caught each other looking, wondering what the other was thinking, imagining, hoping for – wanting .

As the elevator finally reached the seventh floor, Brian glanced at Justin who gave him a look of pure lust over his shoulder before leading the way.

It took Justin two tries to get the key card to work, but when it finally did, the opened door seemed to release something raw, something previously restrained. He grabbed Brian’s collar and dragged him inside with a lot more force than what Brian had anticipated from a man his size and as their lips met in the darkness, Brian could taste Justin’s cigarettes.

Ignoring the foul flavor, Brian fumbled the wall for a light switch but failed as Justin pulled him further into the room and pushed him on the bed. Straddling his lap, Justin proceeded to open his shirt and groaned into his mouth through hungry, rushed kisses. There was determination and emergency in Justin’s movements and as he thrust a condom and a travel sized lubricant at Brian, Brian paused.

“Fuck.”

Brian didn’t realise he had sworn out loud before Justin stopped and looked down at him, perplexed.

“What?” he asked out of breath, straddling Brian’s lap. “What’s wrong?”

Nothing was wrong, per se, and Brian bit his lip. How the fuck hadn’t Justin picked on any of the cues? How in the name of Lucifer and the seven fugly dwarfs had Brian failed to convey his preference to the man? Surely, surely, he didn’t come across domineering enough to fool anyone? Or maybe he did? Jesus fucking Christ on crutches. Who even wanted anal sex drunk? Admittedly, he himself did, but after he’d yielded to the fact that his only possible hook up for the night was none other than Alaska Thunderfuck out of drag – not that he was complaining – he’d contented himself with the upcoming frottage and blowjobs; two bottoms could still have fun, no?

Brian swallowed and looked up at Justin. He looked confused and Brian wondered if he could pull it off. He could just simply keep his mouth shut and go with it, because he was really hard, and because he really wanted to come, and it wasn’t like he didn’t know how to top, and now he could see Justin picking up on his train of thought… Shit, he would have to act quick.

“Oh,” Justin noted, realisation dawning on his face. “You prefer to bottom.”

It wasn’t a question and to Brian’s surprise, Justin didn’t sound entirely crestfallen. He grinned apologetically, because what else was he supposed to do?

“Okay…” Justin drawled and scratched his neck. “Not my first pick, but not a deal breaker either.”

Brian’s brain did a similar movement to a Toyota Corolla that hit a semi-truck going 70 mph on a highway.

“Huh?” he asked, pulling together all the remains of his abused intellect.

Justin chuckled through his nose and grabbed back the condom, as well as the lube, and smirked.

“Not a problem, honey.”

Brian blinked at the attitude change and before his intoxicated brain could fully register what was happening, Justin had gotten off of him, pushed him up on the bed, kicked his legs apart and was leaning over him to kiss him hungrily. Brian had heard rumours of versatile bottoms but had never encountered or experienced one, therefore assigning them to the category of a “lovely but completely false gay culture myth”. Tonight, however, as Justin proceeded to fuck him through the mattress, Brian secretly appointed himself as the gay Jamie Hyneman.

___________

A/N2: Liked it?

[artisticdivasworld]

How New Truckers Can Stay Competitive In this Market

One of the biggest hurdles you’ll face, as a new trucker, is competing in a crowded market and navigating the ever-changing freight rates. It’s no secret that the trucking industry is fiercely competitive, and it can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right approach, you can carve out a solid place for yourself, even as a new driver or owner-operator. The first thing to know is that…

[stackkly]

How to Find Safe and Affordable Truck Parking: Top Apps and Strategies for Drivers

Introduction: The Daily Struggle for Truck Parking

If you’ve ever ended your driving shift only to spend another hour hunting for a safe spot to park, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a long-haul trucker, local box truck operator, or independent semi driver, finding reliable truck and trailer parking near me can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. That’s why having the right tools and strategies can make all the difference.

Why Safe and Affordable Parking Matters

It’s not just about convenience. It’s about:

Compliance with Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules

Driver safety (we all know not every lot is well-lit or secure)

Protecting your cargo and equipment

Avoiding fines or towing from unauthorized parking

Having a reliable spot means peace of mind at the end of a long day.

Common Challenges Drivers Face

Here are some of the most frequent headaches:

Limited spaces at rest stops and truck stops

High prices in urban areas or near delivery hubs

Lack of amenities like restrooms, lighting, or fencing

Poor signage or restricted access areas

You might have even searched for truck parking near me or parking for semi trucks near me and been overwhelmed by unclear or outdated results.

What to Look for in a Truck Parking Spot

When looking for parking, consider the following:

Security: Is it fenced, gated, or camera-monitored?

Accessibility: Is the lot near your route or drop-off point?

Space Type: Does it allow for semi, box truck, or trailer-only parking?

Amenities: Showers, restrooms, laundry, fuel nearby?

Reviews & Ratings: Fellow drivers’ experiences can save you a headache.

Top Strategies to Find Parking Fast

Here’s what seasoned drivers do:

a. Book Ahead

Some apps and websites let you reserve your spot in advance — this saves time and stress.

b. Drive Off-Peak Hours

Try parking before 5 PM or after midnight when demand dips.

c. Talk to Locals

Warehouse managers, fellow drivers, or even convenience store clerks can clue you in on hidden gems.

d. Know Your Area

If you're regularly hauling to the same cities, scout spots in advance and build a go-to list.

Best Apps for Truck and Trailer Parking Near Me

Looking for tech to make life easier? These apps help find parking for trucks near me fast:

1. Trucker Path

Real-time parking availability

Reviews, rest stops, weigh stations

Free to use, premium version available

2. Park My Truck

Developed by the National Association of Truck Stop Operators

Pulls listings from truck stops, rest areas, and other providers

3. Truck Parking USA

Offers listings across the U.S.

Lets you filter by amenities and vehicle type

4. DAT One (by DAT Freight & Analytics)

Parking combined with loads, fuel prices, and routing tools

5. Google Maps + Keyword Search

Type in terms like truck storage near me or semi parking near me and check out reviews and hours

Using Google Effectively for Local Searches

Let’s face it — we all use Google. But here’s how to make it work smarter:

Use terms like box truck parking near me or where can I park my box truck

Sort results by reviews and filter by Open Now

Use Street View to scope out the lot before you go

Planning Ahead: Route Optimization Tips

Before you hit the road:

Use Google Maps or Waze to avoid congested routes

Identify parking options along your route and save them in your GPS

Apps like Sygic Truck GPS Navigation also include truck-friendly routing

Safety First: Red Flags to Watch Out For

Here’s what to steer clear of:

No lighting or fencing

No signage or unclear rules

Recent negative reviews about theft, damage, or tow-aways

No other trucks parked there — that’s often a red flag

If it feels sketchy, trust your gut and move on.

How to Save Money on Long-Term Parking

If you need parking for a week or more:

Negotiate rates with private lot owners or storage facilities

Book monthly passes instead of nightly rates

Use apps that offer long-term discounts

Compare locations: A spot 10 minutes away could be half the price

Some drivers even explore options listed under truck storage near me to find cheaper alternatives.

Bonus: Where Can I Park My Box Truck Safely?

Box trucks can be especially tricky to park. Here are some ideas:

Private storage facilities (search for box truck parking near me)

Industrial park lots — often have space after business hours

Shared economy platforms — local homeowners or businesses with extra space

Truck parking marketplaces (like Stackkly, more on that in a bit)

Make sure to always check local ordinances. Parking a commercial vehicle overnight in a residential zone can get you ticketed.

Final Thoughts and a Smart Tip for Drivers

At the end of the day, finding truck parking is a daily challenge, but with the right mix of tech, strategy, and local know-how, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

If you’re still struggling to find a good spot consistently — whether it’s for your semi, trailer, or box truck — consider browsing platforms like Stackkly.com. It’s a storage and parking marketplace that connects drivers with available spaces, including residential and commercial lots. It might just be the smart, affordable option you didn’t know existed.

Safe travels and happy parking!

FAQs

1. How do I find truck and trailer parking near me without overpaying?

Start by using apps like Trucker Path or Truck Parking Club to compare options in real time. You can also check out Stackkly.com for verified truck and trailer parking near you at affordable rates. Look for spots with upfront pricing, security, and flexible terms.

2. What’s the easiest way to find truck parking near me late at night?

Your best bet is using apps that update availability in real time. Stackkly.com and Trucker Path let you filter by availability, amenities, and location—even when you're on the move. It’s much easier than calling around or guessing where to go.

3. Is there parking for semi trucks near me that’s secure?

Yes, there are! Look for listings that mention gated access, surveillance cameras, or 24/7 monitoring. On Stackkly.com, you can filter listings by security features so your rig stays safe while you rest.

4. Where can I park my box truck overnight without getting towed?

Check for commercial-friendly lots on parking marketplaces like Stackkly.com. Type in box truck parking near me and review the lot’s rules. Always avoid residential areas and retail parking lots—they’re high-risk for tows.

5. What’s the difference between truck parking and truck storage near me?

Great question. Truck parking is usually short-term—ideal for daily or overnight stops. Truck storage, on the other hand, is long-term and often more secure. If you’re parking for a week or longer, search for truck storage near me to find suitable options.

6. How do I know if a parking spot is legal and allowed for my semi?

Always look for listings that clearly state semi truck parking is permitted. Stackkly.com verifies each location and includes details like vehicle type, space size, and access hours, so you’re not guessing.

7. Are there any free parking spots for trucks near me?

Some rest areas and truck stops offer free parking, but it fills up fast. Apps like Park My Truck can help you spot free options. Just know that paid spots often offer better security and more availability—especially if you’re hauling valuable cargo.

8. Can I reserve parking for trucks near me ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s actually the smartest move. Most parking platforms, including Stackkly.com, let you book your truck parking spot in advance so you’re not scrambling later. Pre-booking gives you peace of mind and saves time on the road.

9. What features should I look for in a safe truck parking space?

Look for gated access, lighting, 24/7 surveillance, and ideally, staff onsite. Bonus points if there's restroom access or nearby fuel. These details matter whether you’re booking for one night or for long-term truck and trailer parking near me.

10. Is it hard to find parking for semi trucks near cities or urban areas?

It can be tricky due to space and zoning restrictions. But don’t worry—platforms like Stackkly.com specialize in hard-to-find locations, even within city limits. Just search semi parking near me and filter by proximity.

11. Where can I park my box truck during the day for a delivery route?

Search for hourly or daily box truck parking near me on parking platforms. These listings often cater to delivery drivers and include easy in-out access. Make sure to check the clearance height and entry hours before booking.

12. How far in advance should I book a spot during busy trucking seasons?

During peak times (like holidays or major shipping seasons), it's smart to book your truck and trailer parking near me at least a few days in advance. Early booking helps you avoid stress and gives you the best chance at snagging a secure spot.

13. Are there monthly or long-term truck parking options available?

Yes, definitely. If you’re staying in one area for a while, search for long-term or monthly listings on Stackkly.com. These are typically more affordable and often come with added security perks compared to daily rates.

14. What if I need both parking and storage? Can I find both in one place?

Absolutely. Many listings offer both parking and storage for trucks. Just enter truck storage near me or parking for semi trucks near me and look for locations that mention 24/7 access, surveillance, and long-term leasing options.

15. How do I avoid scams or unsafe lots when booking truck parking online?

Only use trusted platforms like Stackkly.com or Truck Parking Club. These platforms verify locations and allow users to leave reviews, so you know exactly what you’re getting. Avoid sketchy spots without photos, clear pricing, or contact info.

[myallywynn]

Shipping your first container..?? Here are some tips to help you

THE FIRST TIME..!!

In anything that we do in life, the first time is a scary thought – first time on a bike, first time driving a car, first time swimming, first date, first kiss ……………….. etc..

So why should shipping your first container be any different..??

It could be a scary thought if you are a first-time exporter or importing for the first time, but like everything else, if done and handled correctly, shipping your first container can be a good experience as well..

Here are some tips to assist you in shipping your first container..

Product/Market

Understanding your product and the market that you are going to ship your container to is KEY.. This is key because each market works differently even for the same product.. If you are shipping wine for example, it may require a permit for import into a specific market but may not be required in another market..

Conduct a research of the market that you are going to ship to.. This will help you reduce risks and increase your success rate..

Is the market easy to deal with, or are their linguistic or cultural barriers, what would be the demand and how long will it hold..

Many trade departments in governments around the world provide research assistance for new markets as part of their trade promotion initiatives.. Use them wisely..

Part of knowing the market also involves choosing a route to market.. Route to market means identifying what is the best means to get your cargo to a specific market and what is most beneficial for your product.. To some markets it is most beneficial to sell directly whereas to other markets it may be beneficial to use a distributor or sales agent..

Terms of Sale

Ensure that you make your terms of sale CLEAR with your buyer and without any ambiguity.. Discuss it down to the smallest nitty gritty and smallest cost, make sure you cover it all and that it is all in writing with the agreement of both parties..

Do your due diligence on the buyer especially if you are selling on C or D terms from within the Incoterms® rules stable, because a lot of risks and costs are that of the seller under these terms..

Re-check and verify ALL information you can on the buyer especially information relating to their general reputation, products handled, financial and trade references..

Ensure that all your commercial documentation is aligned with these terms of sale and reflects the correct information so as to avoid any delays at export stage or at import stage..

Understand who pays for what in a sea freight shipment as you could end up paying for charges that you need not have really paid for under the terms of your sale or contract of carriage..

Pack your cargo properly

Know and understand the characteristics, distinctiveness and vulnerabilities of your cargo because only once you know the this, you can identify which type of damage your cargo may be susceptible to or cause and take preventive measures to avoid cargo damage..

For example, if you are shipping cargo that is sensitive to movement like glass, certain machinery, artwork, vehicles etc then you need to know what type of damages can occur due to the movement of the sea, truck etc and take suitable precautions to protect your cargo against such damages..

A few important factors to consider when packing your cargo is to

plan the stowage of the cargo in the container

ensure that all container weight limitations of the container are met as per the markings on the container as there are consequences of weight misdeclaration

distribute the weight equally inside the container taking care not to exceed permissible weight concentrations per square foot of deck

avoid concentrating heavy weights at one side or one end

stow heaviest items on the bottom for stability

box, crate or place on cradle the heavy items

ensure that incompatible cargo is not mixed in the container (like mixing clothing with chemicals)

ensure that cargo that is susceptible to leakage or spillage is not stowed on the top of other cargo

observe hazardous packing guidelines

The Essential Guide to Cargo Damage provides you further information on how to pack your cargo..

If you have any doubts on the best practices to pack your container, you should use a professional packing warehouse or packing company to do this job and ensure that your cargo withstands all of the above and reaches its destination safely..

Roles of the various parties

Which brings us to the role of service providers or vendors who will be assisting or handling your shipments..

Apart from the above mentioned packing warehouse, there are several entities that you may be employing, contracting or using to assist in shipping your container

Truckers

Clearing Agents

Freight Forwarders

Shipping Lines

Surveyor/Tally company

Insurance Agent

Fumigation company

Weighbridge for SOLAS VGM

These are just a few entities depending on the type of cargo being shipped and container used..

Using the right vendor for the right job makes a HUGE difference and can be the difference between the success and failure of your shipments..

Understand the role of each of these entities so you know who to contact if anything does go wrong or you are stuck at some point in time with your shipments..

Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each of the entities and in some cases you may use multiple vendors (say truckers) to carry out the movement..

Rules and regulations

There are several rules and regulations involved in the export of goods.. While you might have looked at it or studied it pre-shipment, the acid test is when you start with shipping your first container..

YOU have to make sure that all rules and regulations relating to the cargo (permits, licences, acceptance etc) are checked and confirmed, ensure that country regulations both at POL and POD are followed and that the carrier’s regulations for the carriage of the goods are complied with..

If you are shipping hazardous goods, those special regulations needs to be followed as there are several consequences of misdeclaration or improper shipping of goods..

Documentation

A KEY aspect of any export.. Documentary requirements related to your shipment must be followed strictly to avoid additional costs..

Incorrect, delayed or incomplete documentation is one of the major pains that new exporters face all the time.. Don’t make this mistake.. Create a check list of all documentation required for your shipment way before you start with it..

Some of the standard documents you need to familiarise yourself with for your shipment may include

Commercial Invoice

Packing List

Certificate of Origin

Letter of Credit

Bill of Lading

VGM Certificate

Customs Clearance and Port Documents

Export Permits/Licences

Phytosanitary Certificates

Payment terms and forex

Read and learn all about the various types of payments and its implications..

There are several forms of payment each with its own element of risk.. A graphical representation of the element of risk in relation to the buyer and seller is shown below..

The buyer and the seller must come to an understanding on which form of payment terms suits them both and work according to that..

When in doubt, obviously consult a reliable Trade Finance consultant or your bank..

Another point to consider is the impact of Rate of Exchange on your shipments.. Constantly monitor the same and where possible, schedule your shipments so as to get maximum benefits out of Rate of Exchange fluctuations or stability..

Cost Savings

Understand where and how to save costs

Although cheap is not always best, saving costs when shipping your goods is also important.. There are various processes and procedures involved in shipping but that doesn’t mean that you cannot save a few $$$ in the process..

It pays to get into this habit right from your first container..

For example, know the free time that your trucker offers for the packing of your goods at the warehouse and plan your warehouse operation/planning accordingly so you can complete the packing within that time..

Many shippers do not pay attention to this aspect and end up paying truck detention or standing time unnecessarily simply because they didn’t check with the trucker on this aspect or did not convey same to the packing station.. This delay could impact also other areas like stacking the container at port in time etc..

If your packing area or cargo source is a little far out of the port area and may need additional time for transportation, you could negotiate with the shipping line for additional container free time to avoid demurrage or detention..

Understand what a freight quotation involves and covers and also read up on strategies and tips on securing the best sea freight rates that can help your business..

Depending on the importer, type of contract of sale or Incoterms used, you could use an Express Bill of Lading instead of a Negotiable Bill of Lading or an Electronic Bill of Lading can save you costs of couriering..

The risk and costs associated with losing an original bill of lading could be quite damaging especially if it is the first container..

There are also various technology platforms that could assist you in reducing costs, cutting down time frames and increasing shipment efficiencies.. I have reviewed a few such platforms on this site..

In some cases you could also save costs by shipping goods on FCL than on LCL/Groupage basis even if the container is not full or will not be full.. LCL is not always cheaper than FCL even if you don’t have enough cargo to fill a container..

Protect yourself

Cargo Insurance

This is one area where several new shippers go wrong by shipping their goods on the assumption that if they take all precautions and follow guidelines, everything will be fine and that they don’t need to insure their cargo..

Or the assumption that when they hand over the goods to the freight forwarder or carrier, the goods are insured..

Wrong..

Cargo insurance is the responsibility of the seller or buyer depending on the Incoterms® used.. In a lot of the cases, while there may be every intention by the buyer or seller to insure the goods, incorrect interpretation of the terms of sale or Incoterms chosen could lull you into thinking that the other person has insured the goods or it is the other person’s responsibility to insure the goods..

You may also have faced a situation wherein you might have been misguided by your service provider(s)..

If your cargo is not covered sufficiently by insurance and cargo damage or total loss happens due to any of the above movements, you as the buyer or seller will be sitting with the loss..

In your own interest and the interest of your business, you need to ensure that your cargo is sufficiently covered by cargo insurance..

In this very useful article, Muthu Jagannath says that while insured cargo interests are able to deal with both Salvage and General Average expeditiously through their insurers, uninsured cargo interests generally face difficulties as they would not only have to make various arrangements but also provide securities as may be demanded for Salvage and General Average..

These securities can run into thousands or millions of $$$ which clients may not have..

  Conclusion

International trade, and shipping your first container could be quite daunting, but there is definitely assistance at hand and there is a lot of experience in this area – both from seasoned exporters through export forums, Governmental initiatives or from experienced logistics services providers who can guide and assist you with your requirements..

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.. So chin up and go ahead and ship that first container and conquer the world of exports.. All the best..

If you are about to ship your first container or willing to share some of the experiences you had in shipping your first container, please do so in the comment section.. 

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[truckinsurancepros]

New Venture Trucking Insurance: 9 Tips to Reduce Insurance Costs

One of the most exciting times in a trucker’s career is when you first get behind the wheel of your very own rig. The open road becomes your office and the prospect of profit your co-pilot. But before hitching up your first haul, you will need to purchase new venture trucking insurance. 

Over the years, companies offering new venture trucking insurance have tightened their guidelines. This has made it more difficult for new drivers to secure coverage at competitive premiums. While many rating factors are out of your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your insurance cost; even as a new driver. 

The first step is to understand what insurance companies look for when they rate up a quote. With a little elbow grease and preparation, you could save hundreds of dollars on your new venture trucking insurance, increasing your profitability right out of the gate. 

Coverages to Consider

There are many new venture trucking insurance policies available. For the most part, you will be required to carry insurance to protect yourself as the operator, your motor carrier, and damage to your rig. The coverages to consider include:

Primary Trucking Liability – This coverage pays for bodily injury or physical damage you cause to others resulting from an at-fault accident. 

Physical Damage – This insurance will pay for repairs to your rig if it is stolen or damaged in a collision (not your fault), vandalism, fire, or act of nature. 

Motor Truck Cargo – Loads hauled for others are covered under this policy. The limits required will be determined by who you haul for. 

Non-Trucking Liability – This coverage protects you if you cause injury or damage to others while not under dispatch, regardless if you have a trailer hitched or not (bobtail insurance only covers you without a trailer)

Medical Payments – Payment is provided if you or anyone in your truck is injured as a result of an accident (coverage is limited). 

While insurance will be one of your most expensive operational costs, it is one of the most important products you own. Without new venture trucking insurance, even a small incident can derail your new career before it ever begins. 

9 Ways to Save

As a new driver, you aren’t completely at the mercy of whatever the insurance companies quote. There are several variables you have control over that can help reduce your new venture trucking insurance premiums. Individually the credits may seem small, but find enough discounts and together they could add up to some substantial savings.  

Limit Your Radius – How far you drive impacts your premium. Drivers delivering loads locally (usually within a 100-mile radius) generally have lower rates than long-distance and interstate truckers. This is a function of fewer daily hours on the road and slower speeds.  

Limit Your Load Type – Heavier, hazardous, and specialty loads often command higher shipping charges. The tradeoff is your new venture trucking insurance costs will also become higher. Make sure what you haul can overcome the associate increased insurance premiums. 

Manage Your Credit Score – Maintaining a high credit score can lower your insurance costs in two ways. First, higher credit scores can attract more potential insurance companies to quote your insurance. More competition equates to lower premiums. Second, the better score you have, the better payment terms you will be offered. 

Gain Experience – Most insurance carriers want to see at least 2 years of experience before providing preferred rates. However, ask your insurance agent if there are any credits available for receiving additional driver training. 

Review Your Insurance –Two years is typically the starting point of when new venture trucking insurance premiums begin to fall. But it doesn’t hurt to ask periodically (every 6 months approximately) if additional credits may be available for safe driving.  

Install Telematics – Insurance carriers love data. A few of them are providing discounts to drivers who install telematics hardware or software. If the insurance carrier sees you are a safe driver, credits may be offered after specified amount of time. 

Shop Your Insurance – If you are working with a professional, independent insurance agent, they will market your insurance policies every year. If you purchase coverage from a direct writer, be sure to request an independent insurance agent to provide competitive quotations every year. 

Monitor Your SAFER Score – Insurance companies can use your SAFER score to apply credits against your premium. Like your credit score, it is important to actively monitor your SAFER score for accuracy to ensure no erroneous violations appear on your report. 

Buy / Lease a Newer Truck – Newer rigs will cost more and are more costly to repair. However, if your first truck is too old, insurance companies may consider you a higher risk driver. Consider purchasing or leasing a rig that is 10 years old or newer. 

Some of the ways to save on your new venture trucking insurance may not be possible today. Remain mindful of the discounts you may miss out initially and ask about them when your insurance policies renew each year. 

Finding New Venture Trucking Insurance

As a new trucker, it may be tempting to jump into purchasing your insurance online or calling a 1-800 number. Although you may obtain the coverage you need to be legal, you may miss out on being properly protected. Contact a professional, independent insurance agent who specializes in the trucking industry. Their expertise can help negotiate the best pricing and terms with multiple insurance companies and make sure your insurance program won’t have a gap in coverage.

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[a-alex-hammer]

TradeLens momentum grows with addition of two major ocean cargo carriers

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Most everything that touches our lives took a long trip across the ocean. When you think about the fact that 90 percent of the goods we use every day — from toothbrushes to furniture — were transported as ocean freight, the scale and importance of the global shipping industry takes on new meaning.

Blockchain is helping to modernize the shipping industry, which for years has dealt with isolated systems that require reams of paperwork to get freight from its point of origin to its final destination. Maersk, a leader in global shipping, found that a simple shipment can go through nearly 30 people and organizations, including more than 200 different interactions and communications.

In an effort to transform this complex and far-reaching industry, several years ago IBM and Maersk embarked on a pilot to digitize global trade and share the resulting information. As a result of those learnings, last August we announced TradeLens, a blockchain-enabled platform that promotes information sharing, collaboration and trust among trading partners. In less than a year, TradeLens entered production and is now operating with more than 100 participants who are tracking and sharing over 500 million shipping events and documents. The platform uses open standards, open governance and open APIs to ensure the entire industry can benefit and drive continued innovation, while at the same time providing much-needed security and data privacy.

New members set the stage for the next wave of TradeLens growth

TradeLens has now reached a major tipping point: two of the top ocean cargo carriers, CMA CGM and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, have joined the platform. By joining forces to rapidly expand the geographic reach and scope of TradeLens, shippers like Procter & Gamble can get a single real-time view of all of its containerized cargo, regardless of whether its cargo is carried on a Maersk, CMA CGM or MSC ship. The 10 ocean carriers now on the network are assured that their data is not visible to their competitors. Privacy is paramount.

It’s a real milestone for TradeLens in demonstrating that major carriers are ready and willing to get involved. They realize that digitization of global supply chains is a must and by working together, we can drive that change. The collaboration with CMA CGM and MSC means that the TradeLens community now has the clout to tackle some of the industry’s trickiest challenges. Negotiable e-bills of lading is high on that list.

TradeLens brings together ocean carriers, port and terminal operators, inland transportation providers, customs authorities, cargo owners and freight forwarders. As TradeLens grows, the benefit to all grows through greater visibility, consistent information, better collaboration and shared insights. Industry experts say modernizing the shipping supply chain using this kind of technology has the potential to add billions of dollars of value creation to the global shipping industry through new innovative services, greater efficiencies and lower barriers.

CMA CGM and MSC plan to bring their terminals on board and offer the platform to their customers to further extend its reach. They join other ocean carriers like ZIM and PIL along with 40+ ports and government authorities like U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Customs Administration of the Netherlands, the Ports of Houston and Rotterdam, as well as inland shippers, freight forwarders and logistics providers.

Open and Secure 

Open APIs and standards, including The Linux Foundation’s open source Hyperledger blockchain technology, are at the core of TradeLens, and a tool kit for developers will make it easy to build and innovate on the open platform. TradeLens is also working with openshipping.org to align its APIs with the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT) standards.

With influential ocean carriers joining, TradeLens is better positioned to get insight into other key requirements for continued innovation and interoperability. For example, TradeLens plans to support the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) efforts on interoperability and standards in container shipping.

This open approach makes it easier for players in the supply chain to publish and subscribe to information that needs to be shared. In just one example, it’s not uncommon for a transport plan to change, with cargo being redirected or delayed. That kind of information can quickly and easily be shared via the TradeLens APIs.

At the same time, TradeLens is designed for security and data privacy, which are essential to the success of a business network that includes not just partners, but competitors. TradeLens uses IBM Blockchain technology to give trading partners a shared view of transactions without compromising details, privacy or confidentiality. Consistency checks indicate that documents have been verified and not altered, providing an immutable record of transactions.

How It Works 

Access to near real-time, trusted supply chain information enables truckers and drayage drivers to plan better, reduces port and terminal congestion, minimizes customs and inspections delays, allows everyone to react to supply chain disruptions as they occur and ultimately streamline shipment deliveries. Shippers, transportation and logistics companies and authorities can quickly access trusted and essential information via the blockchain, reducing the amount of paper documentation and improving costly and time-consuming operations, such as freight audit and invoice handling.

On TradeLens, ocean carriers can operate independent blockchain nodes for data sharing related to their contracted consignments. Access controls let data owners prescriptively determine different levels of permission for data access. Data owners continue to control their data even after it becomes part of the blockchain network.

CMA CGM and MSC will operate their own blockchain nodes, host data and serve as Trust Anchors, or validators, for the network. Both companies will join the TradeLens Advisory Board, which will include other members to help guide future development and advise on standards. The participation of these additional carriers in our open governance is another proof point of our blockchain principles in action.

Equally important, the momentum of TradeLens is the latest proof point of the growing adoption of blockchain, which is increasingly used in banking, food safety, supply chain and other industries where trading systems must be digitized. Blockchain skeptics now have something new to think about in terms of the global reach and scalability of the TradeLens platform, which is tracking more than 10 million events per week and growing fast.

Blockchain is a team sport, and we hope that those who have been watching and waiting will now make a commitment to join us and help transform global shipping.

Learn more about TradeLens

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Source/Repost=> http://technewsdestination.com/tradelens-momentum-grows-with-addition-of-two-major-ocean-cargo-carriers/ ** Alex Hammer | Founder and CEO at Ecommerce ROI ** http://technewsdestination.com

[kamperestrada-blog]

Tips for Maximizing a Truck Accident Claim

Suffering injuries from a trucking accident, will leave most accident victims looking to maximize the compensation they are entitled to. Obtaining the compensation accident victims are deservant of requires strategically managing the claims process. Tips for maximizing an insurance settlement include:

Obtain Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible

In order to obtain a maximized settlement offer, it will be important that you are able to prove that you sustained injuries from the accident. In addition to receiving proper medical treatment for your injuries; seeking treatment from a medical practitioner generates medical documentation that can help justify your need for compensation. Medical documentation outlining your injuries and the expenses you have incurred, may ultimately result in a higher settlement offer.

Follow All Treatment Recommendations

Although incessant medical appointments can be time-consuming, following treatment recommendations is important to proving the extent of your injuries. The insurance company will be looking to undervalue your claim by minimizing your injuries. Failing to follow treatment recommendations may make it appear as though you are not as injured as you have claimed.

Gather Evidence

Proving negligence in a trucking accident claim will require that you and your attorney gather evidence to support your case. The evidence provided to insurance companies during the claims process will be key to maximizing your settlement offer. Evidence that may assist in the process can include:

Police Reports

Medical Documentation

Medical Expenses

Witness Information

Trucker’s Driving Record

The Trucks Maintenance Logs

Photographs from the Accident

An attorney will work with you to review evidence and gather any additional pieces of information that may support your claim.

Halt Communication with the Opposing Side

Following an accident, insurance adjusters or the defendant’s attorney may make attempts to contact you. They may be looking for you to make a statement on the record, or act quickly in presenting you with a settlement offer. It’s key that you not communicate with the insurance company or lawyers without legal representation. The opposing side may make attempts to get you to admit fault to the accident or even minimize your injuries. As a result, you stand to receive a settlement offer that is grossly undervalued.

Immediately Retain a Lawyer

It can be easy to put off contacting an attorney or even pursuing an accident case altogether. Victims of tractor trailer accidents are often left with significant injuries to contend with. Although it will be important that you are able to focus on your recovery, contacting an attorney early on is key to securing the compensation you deserve. An attorney can take the lead building your case and managing negotiations with the insurance company.

Each step to the insurance claims process stands to come with its own unique set of challenges. Speaking with a truck accident lawyer Central Phoenix, AZ trusts soon after an accident can help victims manage their case every step of the way. In the wake of a trucking accident, contact an attorney to help you face the horrific aftermath of your accident. Accident victims who have experienced damages from negligent trucking practices may be entitled to compensation.

Contact Kamper Estrada, LLP for their insight truck accident claims and tips for maximizing your claim.

[riederstravis]

Parking Shortages in Pennsylvania Plague Truckers and Endanger Motorists

The shortage of legal parking spots for truckers is endangering everyone driving on Pennsylvania highways. On the Pennsylvania Turnpike alone, there is a deficit of 890 parking spots for trucks; as a result, frustrated truckers have been leaving their vehicles wherever they can find room, usually alongside the highways.  This creates problems for both truckers and motorists who have to navigate a maze of large vehicles parked where they do not belong.  In addition, trucks pulling back onto the road from unsafe parking can easily cause crashes.

Since the Pennsylvania Turnpike is a popular route for many commercial drivers, the need to address the parking deficit is crucial for the safety of all drivers. The situation has become so bad that the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is finally attempting to deal with the issue and discussing the need to create more parking areas for trucks.

Other interstate roads crisscross Pennsylvania including Route 80, Route 81 and new roads running north and south through Williamsport Pennsylvania.   Some of these roads have little or no areas for parking or even refueling of trucks.

Any crash involving largely trucks is likely to be devastating and result in serious injuries or death. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 3,986 people died in large truck crashes in 2016. Trucks often weigh 20-30 times as much as passenger cars and have greater ground clearance, which can result in smaller vehicles winding up underneath trucks in crashes.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury or someone has died in a crash involving an illegally parked truck or any other vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. However, due to the complexity and issues involving these accidents, your case must be handled correctly and competently by an attorney experienced in truck crashes, or you may never collect the compensation you are entitled to. 

Clifford A. Rieders of Rieders, Travis, Humphrey, Waters & Dohrmann knows the courts and the system and what you need to do to win a good settlement or try the case. Our skilled and experienced Pennsylvania truck crash attorneys have represented any number individuals who have been injured or killed in vehicle accidents in Pennsylvania.

We offer a free consultation to discuss the facts of your individual situation, so contact us at our office or online today.

What is Being Done

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation runs a program called P3 which will be used to address the truck parking issues and create a pilot program. To start, the Turnpike Commission has pinpointed the six worst service stations for truck parking along the main turnpike. Those with the fewest parking spaces are:

Highspire plaza in Middletown, Dauphin County (9 truck parking spaces)

Lawn plaza in South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County (14 spaces)

Bowmansville plaza in Denver, Lancaster County (13 spaces)

Peter J. Camiel plaza in Elverson, Chester County (24 spaces)

Valley Forge in Wayne, Delaware County (7 spaces)

King of Prussia in King of Prussia, Montgomery County (26 spaces).

In total, there are 93 available spaces between the plazas, which are not enough.  Observers for the program visited these plazas between the prime resting hours of 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., and found 195 trucks parked throughout the six plazas. The most dangerous rest area was Valley Forge, with only seven available parking spaces. When visited, the plaza had 36 trucks parked around it.

To remedy the situation, the turnpike is instituting a pilot program to better manage existing truck parking spaces and provide information to drivers on where available spaces are located. The program will provide real-time information to truckers as they are traveling so they can see what spots are available at the two closest service plazas.

Remember that not all roads are governed by the Turnpike Commission in Pennsylvania.   There are many interstate roads in Pennsylvania such as Routes 80, 81 and north/south roads that are being expanded through Williamsport, Pennsylvania.   Some of these roads are more dangerous because they are not governed by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

Common Injuries from Truck Accidents

Injuries from trucks and other large vehicle crashes are often severe and may include catastrophic and devastating injuries such as paralysis, brain trauma, broken bones, disfigurement, emotional damage and post traumatic stress syndrome, and, of course, death. If victims survive, their lives may never be the same.

Damages crash victims may be entitled to include:

1) economic damages, which include compensation for past and future medical and hospital expenses, rehabilitation expenses, past and future wage loss and wage loss horizon, and other out-of-pocket expenses;

2) It is often said that economic damages are the tip of the iceberg.  Therefore, a person is entitled to claim non-economic damages, including loss of life’s pleasures until death, emotional distress, pain and suffering; and

3) physical impairment and disfigurement and, depending upon the case, other specialized damages.

Family members of victims may be entitled to compensation for wrongful death.

Contact an Attorney at Our Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured or someone has died in a truck crash, you should get immediate legal assistance to protect your rights at every stage of your liability claim.

The skilled and experienced Pennsylvania truck accident attorney Clifford A. Rieders of Rieders, Travis, Humphrey, Waters & Dohrmann has spent decades honing his skills and successfully representing Pennsylvania families who have suffered an injury or loss due to someone else’s negligence. Our attorneys offer personal attention and loyalty to every client, aggressively fighting for their right to compensation. Whether in settlement negotiations or pursuing a favorable trial verdict, we are thoroughly prepared and committed to achieving a just outcome.  With our competent staff, we offer strength in numbers while providing top-notch personal service.

Cliff Rieders is a Past President of the Pennsylvania Association for Justice, formerly Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association.  Rieders has won numerous awards and recognition from the Pennsylvania Association for Justice, and he received the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority recognition award.  Cliff Rieders was a founder of the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority and served on same for 15 years.  Rieders was a Law Clerk in the federal court system for one of the most well-known and longest serving federal judges in the country, the Honorable Malcolm Muir.  Cliff has received the George F. Douglas Amicus Curiae Award, as well as the Milton D. Rosenberg Award from the Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers. Rieders is on committees and organizations that write the law in many fields of practice. He is a Nationally Board certified specialist for Civil Trial and Civil Practice and Procedure, a cum laude graduate of New York University as well as Georgetown University Law Center.

One of Cliff Rieders’ books specifically involves the Financial Responsibility Law which governs many considerations with respect to auto/truck and other vehicle collisions in Pennsylvania.

Rieders is admitted in Pennsylvania, New York State, District of Columbia and numerous federal courts including the Supreme Court of the United States.  Rieders is a life member of the American Law Institute which publishes recommended legal principles utilized throughout the United States.  Cliff Rieders is the lawyer that other lawyers call for counsel and advice in the medical and hospital malpractice and pharmaceutical/vitamin supplement fields.  Cliff Rieders does substantial work in multi-district litigation in connection with pharmaceutical products and medical devices.

At Rieders Travis, we offer a free consultation to carefully examine the individual facts in your case and determine the best way to handle it. Don’t delay. Contact us today by calling or using our online contact form to set up your free consultation.

Based in Williamsport, we serve clients throughout the state of Pennsylvania, offering a free consultation on all personal injury matters. More than that, we offer you experience, knowledge, compassion, and a long history of results.

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