The CB platform allows truckers in a localized area to connect with each other to share and discuss information as a group even though they may know the identity of the other people. The technology is simple to use with a peer-peer format thereby needing no network infrastructure. All the driver has to do is push-to-talk and all other trucks in range with a CB will be able to listen and respond. You can imagine what a powerful asset this is could be for professional drivers who spend 10-15 long hours/day on the highway. It is for this reason that CB penetration in trucks is 70+% in Europe and the USA.
The information communicated on the road is diverse
- Accidents and hazards: notify if you observe any emergency situation which requires their immediate attention: accidents that just happened (you may be asked to give more information), vehicles broke down on the road or on the side of the road, etc
- Traffic conditions or delays: knowing about a delay a few kilometres down the road allows a trucker to stopover and take a break until traffic clears.
- Directions and shortcuts: Drivers can ask their peers for directions and shortcuts when they are in new areas. Even though GPS is available in many trucks CB allows real human intervention to get additional details and real local insight. If a driver takes a shortcut and saves time it has a direct financial benefit to him.
- Local business search (shippers, receivers, truck stops, TSL, Dhabas, etc.): local business around a highway can also have a CB station thereby making it simple for a driver to find and contact them with a simple push-to-talk action.
- Weather conditions: report any fog affecting visibility, high winds, winter conditions, heavy rain, etc. In difficult weather conditions CB allows several truckers to co-ordinate and self-manage the situation to avoid accidents and/or delays.
- Location of official services/posts: CB allows truckers to communicate regarding the location of the various official stations on the road. This allows them to better anticipate, prepare for and manage the various related processes.
Additionally remember trucking is a lonely job even with a helper. CB allows truckers on the road to chit-chat, break the monotony, share a laugh or experience with fellow truckers.
CB Radio users can also benefit in environments where multiple truck contractors are working in localized area since CB becomes a standard for communication among disparate organizations. For example:
- Port authorities/container stations: There may be a sign telling drivers which CB channel to monitor to hear possible instructions to driver.
- Trucking Customers: Customers (shippers and receivers) will often need to contact a driver on the CB with important information: when they're ready to load and when the trailers loaded or unloaded to maximize payload and minimize downtime.
