Automotive Trucks information on net.

Pickup trucks are very useful in moving luggage and other household goods while moving from one house to another. Though originally designed to haul cargo, pickup trucks have become immensely popular for luggage transport also.

There are many companies who rent out pickup trucks, depending on individual requirements. Before deciding which company to hire the pickup truck from, you need to be sure of the services they provide. There are companies that provide ‘self-service moving,’ which means that instead of paying the mover to come and pack your luggage, you can do the packing and haul the luggage into the truck. This will reduce your expenses; otherwise, you will have to pay the packing and loading charges also.

Pickup truck rental companies also provide accessories such as loading ramps, blankets, and furniture pads, tie-down straps, and a dolly. You can use them to off load your luggage when you reach your destination. The rates are based on the actual distance traveled, space taken by the luggage, and its weight. You do not have to drive the truck, as the company provides a driver.

If you are not fully aware of the rules of the game, you may be hoodwinked into paying more freight charges than you actually need to pay. Since rents are based on the space your luggage occupies, you should see to it that it is accurately measured. Space should be measured on the floor, and not on the roof. Some companies may charge you for 24 cubic feet of space, including the roof, whereas your luggage occupies only 20 feet.

Besides being overcharged due to inaccurate space measurements, you may also be overcharged on the basis of the distance covered to reach your destination. Usually, the rental companies charge you for two ways, to and from the destination, on the plea that they spend fuel on the back journey as well. There are, however, some big companies whose offices may be located near your destination. So, in such cases, they may be charging you for a return journey they are not going to make.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:22 AM  0 Comments

Much like food, a book is best enjoyed when shared. This is probably the reason why book clubs sprout everywhere - readers get to share ideas, interact with other booklovers, and best of all, get books at specially reduced prices!

Why join a book club? One reason is social interaction. It can’t be any more obvious – a book club is every bookworm’s party. As a member or moderator, you can openly express your opinions, likes, and dislikes about a particular book that the club has agreed to read together. In some instances, you might even be introduced to the author of the book and get firsthand information on his or her reasons for writing it, clarify some sketchy areas, and even get the latest buzz on possible sequels.

Joining a book club likewise allows you to meet different kinds of people, because it is generally open to everyone – people of different ages, social backgrounds, etc. If you attend regularly enough, you will begin to meet people with the same interests as yours.

There are book clubs that specialize in certain genres of literature, such as classical, mystery, movie books, or romance. Join these ‘specialized’ types if you are more discriminating – you can form new friendships, meet more prospective clients, and maybe even find love!

Also, book clubs are often sponsored by publishers and book marketing groups, so members are usually given hefty discounts (as much as 50% off!) and early access to the newest and most sought-after releases. You can also borrow and exchange books with either the club itself (if it has its own collection) or with the other club members.

Finally, joining a book club can inspire you to go back to reading (if you are not yet a bookworm) or be even more passionate about books (if you already are). Here you can challenge yourself to read between the lines, grasp literature by its roots, and open your mind to new ideas. Joining a book club will let you rediscover the simple joys of reading – the joy of smelling paper, of opening an unread book for the very first time, and of totally immersing yourself in what it has to offer.

Ready to join a book club? Use the Internet to search for one in your area, or check the Yellow Pages. Happy reading!

# posted by Medical Information : 3:21 AM  0 Comments

Moving truck rentals are generally most expensive during the summer. In the winter one can get the cheaper moving truck rentals. However, the cost usually depends mostly on the company and its location, as well as the quality of its service.

If you are moving within the town then it is advisable to hire a truck during a weekday rather than a weekend. This could make a significant difference in terms of rentals. Hiring a moving truck is more expensive during the weekends.

If you know your plan for moving well in advance, it is best to reserve a truck as early as possible. This booking can be done online, over the telephone or by making a personal visit. Generally, one gets a better price on bookings in advance. If you are a regular customer of the truck rental service then you might get a frequent-customer discount.

However, certain truck rental services charge hidden costs which wipe out any savings from the cheaper rentals. Check out these charges before making a final decision, even if the initial costs are quite low.

Cheap truck rentals are also offered on one-way trips nowadays. This is due to growing competition in the market. There are a number of companies which are able to reap economies of scale due to their large-scale operation. So they are often in a position to offer cheap moving truck rentals. Several online and offline resources provide lists of cheap moving truck rentals. You can compare them and then take a final decision.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:21 AM  0 Comments

If you own a mobile car wash or auto detailing business then perhaps you have considered what to do in the Winter Time where you live when it is downpouring rain or totally covered in snow. It is rather hard to detail cars in the snow and no one wants a car wash if God is doing it for free or if you are just going to spray snow off the car and turn it to ice. After all the last thing a property management company wants to see is a portable ice maker in their parking lot and people slip sliding away to the local slip and fall lawyer with paper work in hand for the courthouse the next day, that is for sure.

Recently a gentleman told me; I know a few dozen Landscape companies that have trucks, equipment and for a small fee, they are out on the road with clean trucks and making a good impression. I also know of two general contractors that have their trucks detailed at least once a year if not more. I can see the slow time would be the winter, but we do have a large garage that we can work out of if there are clients that need these services in the winter months.

Yes, these types of small businesses have lots of vehicles they make Excellent customers too. Fleet truck washing can definitely help an auto detailing or car washing business get thru the Winter Months and stay business and this makes a lot of sense. Contractors and Landscape business all need to keep their trucks clean, good points all of them. Well then, perhaps you should consider this in 2006?

# posted by Medical Information : 3:05 AM  0 Comments

There is a huge market for used pickup trucks for both sellers and buyers. The pickup trucks of manufacturing companies such as Volvo, Renault, Mercedes Benz, DAF, Farbs, Nissan and Iveco, are freely available in the market. Before deciding to buy a used pickup truck, it is important that you set your priorities. You also need to consider if you have a preference for a particular truck manufacturer, based upon your personal experience or the feedback of your friends. Yet even if you have confidence in a particular brand, it is better to study the other options available in the market. This is because, due to stiff competition, leading manufacturing companies take every possible step to ensure that their product meets consumer satisfaction. So you might get benefits that you had not really considered while setting your priorities.

You should take care to consider your business requirements and also your budget. Do you need a small pickup truck for its basic purpose, which is hauling cargo? Or do you need a full sized truck, which can tow a trailer and a boat also? If you have greater towing needs, go for a full-sized truck, or a multipurpose pickup truck that can serve as a car-cum-pickup truck. Keep in mind that the smaller compact trucks have better fuel efficiency than the heavier vehicles. Also, you need to consider the space, depending upon the size of items you have to move.

You should also check the performance capacity of the engine. Compact trucks have four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, while the bigger ones have six-cylinders and other configurations.

Once you have decided the buy a model, you should visit your local market to survey and get the quotations and also the associated warranties or guarantees, if any, along with the data of the running conditions. You can also search the Internet for information and competitive prices.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:04 AM  0 Comments

If you are planning to shift to a new place, be it across the state or to a new country, you obviously would want to take all the pieces of furniture and stuff you had collected, which you hold special to you, instead of selling them off and buying new ones. Well then what better way to do that than to rent a truck! You can decide on the size of the truck depending on how much stuff you have.

Make enquiries about truck rental companies:

Finding a good rental company may be difficult, as there are so many these days. Here are some points that one should keep in mind while renting a truck:

• See if the rental company has branches in the same city you are moving to. This way you will only have to pay for a one way move. Many companies do accommodate that, but they ask for upfront payment, so this way you end up paying the company for the return journey as well. You may not be aware of this, as you may assume that you are paying extra for the service charge incase they do not have a branch there. Make enquiries before you book.

• It is always advisable to book the truck well in advance once you have decided on the rental company. Sometimes you may not get the truck on the day you want, especially during the peak season. So always call in advance to reserve a truck for yourself, preferably a week or two in advance.

• Make enquiries about the rental charges in different rental companies to find out which price suits you best. Some companies may also charge more for new and well maintained trucks, than they do for old trucks. You have to decide based on that, which one you want. Some truck rentals may also offer special services as compared to other companies. Find out the distance to be traveled, as they may charge according to distance, and for every extra mile you travel, you may be charged extra.

• The size of the truck will be based on the number of rooms to be moved. Generally, a 26 foot truck will accommodate a 4–plus bedroom house, and a cargo van or trailer can be used for shifting small offices. It is always better to book a larger truck, this way you can be sure all the goods will fit in.

• The rental companies may also offer optional insurance plans such as cargo insurance, accident insurance, and loss and damage insurance. Find out about all the coverage from all different companies, and then decide which one you think is best for you. Make sure that you call your credit card companies before signing the agreement.

Go for it!

Rental trucks are convenient, and the good part is you do not even have to shell out a lot of money for your shifting. They are a cost effective way to move your stuff to your new place. It's as simple as renting a car to move about the city - you just have to decide on the rental company, and rent their truck to transport your belongings. The rental cost all depends on the size of the truck and the distance to be traveled. Some of the rental companies even have major branches in all the different cities, thus saving you money by just paying for the one way truck rental.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:03 AM  0 Comments

The best-selling car in America returns with an original engine design and a blue-collar transmission from the motor city. Ford's F-150 pickup comes in regular, extended, and crew-cab styles. All cabs have four doors. The standard minicab mimics the SuperCab extended minicab with average rear-hinged "partly doors." The SuperCrew crew minicab has four straight doors. Extended's and crews have a bring up work surface seat for 6-passenger capacity. Crews have a 5.5-ft-long consignment single bed. Other F-150s use beds of 5.5, 6.5, and 8 ft, depending on options. All come in flat-side Styleside outward appearance; the 6.5-ft single bed in addition comes as a flare-fender Flareside.

The 4.2-liter V6 engine has 202 horse power. Two V8 engines are available: a 4.6-liter with 231 hp and a 5.4 with 300. A 5-speed transmission now comes as a standard option.

Taking turns on redesigning its bread-and-butter pickups, Ford rolled out a brand-new version of the F-150 pickup in 2004 and then focused its thought on a makeover of its big-bubba Super Duty in 2005. This year, Ford is sleeping from its labors, with little changes of memorandum: The F-150 procession is toughened up with a Harley-Davidson trim pack up highlighted by a monotone black outdoor; 22-inch polished, sham aluminum wheels; and bags of eagle logos. Later in the representation year. And there are some chrome selection packages and other negligible doodads to expend change on.

We were disenchanted that Ford chose not to fetch out a original version of its defunct Lightning, which was rumored to revisit in 2006 with a supercharged V-8 cranking out 500 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The Ford Lightning has been a huge draw for the company. Even appearing in popular movies like the fast and furious to boost it's popularity.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:32 AM  0 Comments

Anyone with a small to medium sized fleet of vehicles is probably well aware of the costs associated with traditional fleet tracking systems. These costs are often prohibitive for all but the largest fleets, making it even harder for small and medium sized fleets to operate efficiently and cost effectively.

There are ways, though, for smaller fleets to use vehicle tracking to their advantage. The most important thing to do is look at all of the options available and find the technology that provides the most value for the money invested.

Look for innovative technology
When GPS tracking first became widely available, it represented a wholesale change in vehicle tracking technology. So, too, does the latest technological innovation represent the “next big thing” in vehicle tracking and protection.

You might think that the latest technology would be more expensive rather than less expensive compared to traditional systems, but this is not always the case. One example is the proactive vehicle tracking and protection system known as AutoAlert. It is the newest generation of tracking technology that monitors a vehicle proactively, 24/7, and can actually alert the vehicle owner right away if there is a problem.

This system uses a small tracking unit in the vehicle and a web-based interface that is accessible by mobile telephone, laptop computer, or PC. There is no additional infrastructure required and there are no monthly subscription fees. In this case, new technology not only performs better but it is also more cost effective.

Consider up front and ongoing costs
For the small and medium sized fleet operator, it can be difficult to get past the “sticker shock” of the up front costs associated with vehicle tracking systems. And quite often, this barrier is substantial enough to prevent those operators from moving forward with vehicle tracking. For those who can get past the up front costs, the ongoing costs represent the next challenge. Monthly subscription fees and ongoing labor for a central call center are the largest expenditures that can be foreseen.

These same operators will see quite a few differences in the costs associated with the newest tracking systems. The vehicle units themselves are reasonably priced and there is no need for new infrastructure, making the up front costs much less. As for ongoing costs, the biggest difference is seen in subscription fees. The newest systems, such as AutoAlert, do not require a monthly subscription fee and therefore cost much less to operate over the long term.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:32 AM  0 Comments

For those who are in the business of cleaning and detailing cars on-site or who run a mobile auto detailing or mobile car wash company there are certain things you need to know to insure you do not destroy the transmission in your vehicle.

Water weighs eight pounds per gallon and as it sloshes around that is quite a bit of kinetic energy moving around indeed so when driving a car wash truck towing a trailer with a 200 gallon water tank you know that when you come to a stop it rocks back and forth. This hurts the gears on the transmission whether you have an automatic or a stick shift.

So here is the technique we always used in our company (DetailGuys.com) to stop this. First you come to an almost complete stop slowing down and as the water starts to move forward you slightly let of the brake and thus it rocks the truck back a little slowing the vehicle and then you abruptly stop at the last second. What does this do you ask?

Well, as it starts to rock backwards you tap the brake. This halves the travel of the water backwards and then the two waves in the tank hit each other on the next cycle. Rogue wave inside of the tank going up and down and cancels it out, the shocks on the trailer take it from there and not the transmission. I always use to do this and those who do not will buy new transmissions in their vehicle every couple of years. Consider this in 2006.

# posted by Medical Information : 3:32 AM  0 Comments

Thousands rent a truck in the United States every day. There are many companies where you can rent a truck of your choice. For example Budget which has more than 32,000 trucks and about 3,000 locations across the US and they are not even the biggest company in this business.

The trucks of most truck rental companies in the US are of GMC, Ford, International and Isuzu make. The sizes of trucks available on rent are cargo vans, 10-feet trucks, 16-feet trucks and 24-feet trucks. Truck rental companies often claims that its trucks have an average age of two to three years.

Truck rental companies also provides hand trucks, packing paddings, adhesive tapes, ropes, packing paper, mattress bags, padlocks, boxes etc at a nominal cost. Most of the rental trucks have air conditioning, FM radio, power steering, automatic transmission, power brakes, walk off ramps, lift gates etc and they are really comfortable.

The rented trucks are often covered by roadside assistance. The internet websites of truck rental companies are full with information about types of trucks, prices etc. Most websites have a very user friendly interactive page where the pick up and drop off locations are mentioned. Online reservations and quoting rates are available on the sites.

An example, if a person is renting a Budget rental truck from Atlanta to New York (approx 1,100 miles) on a Wednesday and dropping off on the coming Monday that is for 5 days. It will approximately cost $650 for a 10-feet truck, $680 for a 16-feet truck and $830 for a 24-feet truck. A car carrier cost will be $50 extra. Out of the above mentioned rates $150 will be refunded as deposit.

The above rates do not include taxes. The extra miles will cost $0.56 per mile and an extra day will cost $56 per day if reserved before hand. If you add extra miles or days after pick up, the cost will be $0.70 per mile and extra days will cost $70 per day.

It is prudent to read the terms and conditions before renting and a cancellation has to be made at least 48 hours before pick up otherwise you will be charged extra for the cancellation.

At the time of a truck rental two things will be required, identification and U.S. issued driver’s license. Identification can be driver’s license, passport, Military ID, Social security card, phone bill, state issued identification etc.

The advantages of renting a truck are many. You are in charge of your goods, the trucks are in good condition, it has usually many locations and it provides a low cost moving solution.

# posted by Medical Information : 4:59 AM  0 Comments

The cover used for the bed of your truck is called a tonneau cover. Its main purpose is to give protection to the stuff kept in the bed of your pick-up truck. There are different types of tonneau covers available, and depending on the quality of the material used, the prices vary from around $100 to $2000.

The Different Types of Tonneau Covers:

Aluminum Tonneau Covers

Aluminum tonneau covers are the most popular ones. They are available under two different brands of aluminum; extreme flat, and laser life. Both serve the same, the only difference is that laser life is painted with a tough black coat to match the trim of your truck, whereas extreme flat is painted so that it matches the paint of your truck.

Retractable Tonneau Covers

These covers are designed so that they can retract automatically and roll up into the storage box. Though they are hard tonneau covers, you can stuff large items without removing the cover from the bed. They can provide the security of a hard top and are also very convenient like a soft top. The only thing is, you have to make some space for the canister in the front, and they are also prone to leaking. The installation may not be easy as it may require some drilling. They are a bit more expensive than aluminum covers.

Fiberglass Tonneau Covers

Fiberglass tonneau covers are popular as they are secure and are generally painted to match the body of your truck. The only setback is the weight - they are very heavy, so it gets very difficult to remove the cover from the bed when you are going to put in a large item.

Folding Tonneau Covers

Folding tonneau covers are the newest invention. These are very convenient to use as they can be folded when putting items in the bed. The only problem is they are prone to leaking, but surely if you do not mind that then they are great covers for your truck bed.

Vinyl Tonneau Covers

Vinyl tonneau covers provide the same protection as other covers, but the good thing about these is they are light weight. This makes it easier while installing the cover, and also when loading items into your truck. They can be easily removed when not needed. They are also cheaper as compared to other covers.

The Benefits of a Tonneau Cover:

A tonneau cover protects your luggage or other items kept in the bed of your truck. It increases the security of your personal belongings, as it conceals whatever is under it. A tonneau cover also improves the gas mileage of your truck approximately up to 8%. This way you can save on your gas bill. For more advanced security, a locking hard top tonneau cover can be used. This can be latched to the tail gate, and your belongings can be secured under lock and key.

While buying a tonneau cover, check on the functionality of it. See if the cover is easy to install or remove, and also how convenient it is to use. The durability and life of a tonneau cover depends mainly on how it is handled. If it is used extensively in hot sun, during snow or hard rain, its life may be shorter than it should be. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to take care of your tonneau cover.

# posted by Medical Information : 4:59 AM  0 Comments

For a truck owner, access to high-quality truck parts and services is important. Although trucks are known for their durability and versatility, it is inevitable that it will need some form of repair or refurbishment.

Most trucks are subjected to tough work, such as towing and hauling. This will unavoidably wear down some of the important parts and accessories necessary for the proper function of the vehicle. Rust, mud and the elements can also cause problems. When this happens, the best recourse is to pay a visit to the nearest truck parts service provider. Truck parts services are available at most auto shops. These shops offer a wide variety of services including repair, installations, part replacement, overhaul, paint jobs and other important auto services.

To maintain a truck in excellent working condition, an auto mechanic for any signs of trouble should regularly check it. Regular maintenance jobs, such as oil changes, wheel alignments and calibration are also indispensable to the well being of the vehicle.

Regularly having check-ups will help you keep track of your truck and prevent any breakdown or mishap. Perhaps a twice-a-year visit is enough to give your vehicle the proper care and maintenance it needs. Look for truck parts services that will give your truck the best possible care and maintenance at the best price. Most truck parts services have a comprehensive array of replacement parts and accessories in case your truck will need it.

It pays to have frequent visits to truck parts services and shops. At the first sign of trouble, have your vehicle checked by a competent auto mechanic. A visit to the truck parts service shop is an excellent preventive measure to avoid engine breakdowns and other problems.

# posted by Medical Information : 4:58 AM  0 Comments