lady truck driver using GPS technology

How GPS is Revolutionizing the Trucking Industry

Posted on by Ryan Clay

The trucking industry is one that has been around for many years, and it is one that is constantly changing. In the past, truck drivers had to rely on paper maps and directions to get them from one place to another. However, with the advent of GPS technology, that is no longer the case. GPS systems can provide truck drivers with real-time updates on their location and route, allowing them to avoid traffic jams and other delays. This has revolutionized the trucking industry, making it more efficient and reliable.

What is GPS and how does it work?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is a satellite-based system that can provide accurate information on the location of an object on the earth’s surface. GPS works by triangulating the position of a GPS receiver based on the signals it receives from three or more satellites. The satellite signals are transmitted to the GPS receiver, which then calculates the distance to each satellite. From these calculations, the GPS receiver can determine its exact location.

How has GPS changed the trucking industry?

In the trucking industry, GPS has been a game changer. It has helped to make the industry more efficient and has made it easier for companies to track their trucks and drivers. GPS has also helped to reduce the number of accidents and has made it easier for companies to find new routes.

GPS tracking systems have become standard in the trucking industry. Most trucking companies use them to track the location of their vehicles and to monitor driver behavior. GPS tracking systems can also be used to monitor fuel usage, engine hours, and other vehicle performance data.

The use of GPS tracking systems has helped to improve the safety of the trucking industry. In the past, accidents were often caused by driver error or by mechanical problems with the truck. However, with GPS tracking, companies can now monitor their vehicles in real-time and can quickly respond to any problems that may arise.

GPS has also helped to improve the efficiency of the trucking industry. In the past, drivers often got lost or took detours that added time to their journey. With GPS, drivers can now follow the most efficient routes and avoid traffic delays. This has helped to save companies money and has made it easier for them to meet deadlines.

How to Use GPS for Your Trucking Business?

If you own a trucking business, there are several ways you can use GPS to your advantage.

  1. You can use GPS tracking systems to track the location of your vehicles and drivers. This information can be used to ensure that your drivers are staying on schedule and that they are taking the most efficient routes.
  2. You can use GPS to monitor driver behavior. This information can be used to identify problem areas and to make changes to your training program.
  3. You can use GPS data to improve the efficiency of your business. By analyzing your data, you can find new routes and strategies that will help you save time and money.
  4. You can use GPS to improve safety in your business. By monitoring your vehicles and drivers, you can quickly respond to any problems that may arise.

If you are looking to improve the efficiency of your trucking business, GPS is a tool that you should consider using. GPS tracking systems can provide you with valuable information that can be used to make your business more efficient and safer.

What challenges does the trucking industry face?

Although GPS has been a great help for the trucking industry, there is still a problem that the industry is currently facing. This problem is a lack of qualified drivers. The trucking industry is facing a driver shortage of around 50,000 drivers. This shortage is causing problems for companies who are trying to deliver their goods on time.

The driver shortage is being caused by a number of factors. One factor is the retirement of baby boomers. As baby boomers retire, there are fewer people available to take their place. Another factor is the rise in the cost of living. This has made it difficult for people to afford the lifestyle of a truck driver.

The trucking industry is working to find solutions to the driver shortage. One solution is to use GPS tracking systems to monitor driver behavior. This information can be used to improve training programs and to identify problem areas. Another solution is to offer incentives to drivers who are willing to work longer hours. This may include bonuses, paid vacation days, or extra pay for weekends.

The trucking industry is also working to attract more women and minorities. In the past, the trucking industry has been dominated by white men. However, this is changing. Women and minorities are now becoming more interested in careers in the trucking industry. The industry is working to create an environment that is more welcoming to these groups of people.

The trucking industry is facing a number of challenges. However, GPS tracking systems can help to solve some of these problems. GPS data can be used to improve training programs, identify problem areas, and attract more drivers. By using GPS, the trucking industry can continue to grow and thrive.

tired truck driver

The Challenges Of Being A Truck Driver

Posted on by Ryan Clay

It is no secret that the truck driving profession is one of the most difficult in the world. Truck drivers face a number of challenges on a daily basis. Despite the challenges, many people choose to become truck drivers because they enjoy the freedom and independence the job offers. If you are considering a career in truck driving, it is important to be aware of the challenges that you may face.

What are the challenges of being a truck driver?

As a truck driver, there are many different challenges that you can face. Knowing these challenges can help you better meet them and prepare for them. Knowing them will also help you assess whether you want to be one or not.

Long Hours On The Road

One of the most difficult challenges that truck drivers face is being on the road for long hours. Truck drivers can be on the road for days or even weeks at a time. This can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to stay focused. It is important to take breaks when you can and to get plenty of rest to avoid becoming too tired.

Staying Away from Home

Another challenge that truck drivers face is being away from home for long periods of time. This can be difficult for many people, as they miss their family and friends. It is important to stay in touch with your loved ones while you are on the road and to make sure that you have a support system in place.

Dealing with Weather Conditions

Truck drivers also have to deal with a number of weather conditions while on the road. From snowstorms to thunderstorms, truck drivers must be prepared for anything. This can be difficult, as it can make it hard to stay on schedule. It is important to plan your route ahead of time and to allow extra time for delays.

Dealing with Traffic

Another challenge that truck drivers face is dealing with traffic. Traffic can be heavy at times, which can make it difficult to get where you need to go. It is important to be patient and to plan your route ahead of time to avoid getting caught in traffic.

Tips To Avoid Fatigue While Driving A Truck

Truck drivers often face long hours on the road. This can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to stay focused. It is important to take breaks when you can and to get plenty of rest to avoid becoming too tired. Here are some other tips to help you avoid fatigue while driving a truck:

-Schedule your driving time wisely

-Take advantage of rest areas

-Plan your route ahead of time

-Eat healthy meals

-Get plenty of rest

-Stay hydrated

If you are considering a career in truck driving, it is important to be aware of the challenges that you may face. With proper preparation and a positive attitude, you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.

heavy duty truck

The Different Types of Heavy-Duty Trucks and What They’re Used For

Posted on by Ryan Clay

Heavy-duty trucks are a necessary part of life for many people. They are used to transport goods and materials to different places, and they play an important role in the economy. There are many different types of heavy-duty trucks that are available on the market, and each one has its own set of benefits. In order to choose the right truck for your needs, it is important to understand the different types of trucks that are available and what they are best suited for.

The Semi-Truck

The first type of heavy-duty truck is the semi-truck. Semi-trucks are the largest type of truck that is available, and they are typically used to transport large loads over long distances. Semi-trucks have a lot of power and can haul very heavy loads, making them ideal for long-distance transportation. One of the downsides to semi-trucks is that they can be difficult to maneuver, and they require a lot of fuel.

The Dump Truck

The next type of heavy-duty truck is the dump truck. Dump trucks are typically used to transport materials that need to be dumped, such as dirt, sand, or gravel. They have a large bed that can be raised and lowered, and they are equipped with a hydraulic system that allows them to dump their load. Dump trucks are very versatile and can be used in a variety of applications.

The Flatbed Truck

The next type of heavy-duty truck is the flatbed truck. Flatbed trucks have a large, flatbed that is used to transport goods that need to be unloaded. They are typically used to transport large machinery or other heavy equipment. Flatbed trucks are very versatile and can be used in a variety of applications.

The Tanker Truck

The next type of heavy-duty truck is the tanker truck. Tanker trucks are used to transport liquids or gases that are stored in tanks. They have a large tank that is mounted on the back of the truck, and they are equipped with a pump that allows them to transfer the liquid or gas to another location. Tanker trucks are typically used to transport oil, gasoline, or water.

The Box Truck

The final type of heavy-duty truck is the box truck. Box trucks are used to transport goods that need to be protected from the elements. They have a large, enclosed area that is used to store goods, and they are typically used to transport food or other perishable items.

Choosing the Right Truck

When choosing a heavy-duty truck, it is important to consider your needs and what type of truck will best suit your needs. If you need to transport large loads over long distances, a semi-truck is a good option. If you need to transport materials that need to be dumped, a dump truck is a good option. If you need to transport large machinery or other heavy equipment, a flatbed truck is a good option. If you need to transport liquids or gases, a tanker truck is a good option. If you need to transport goods that need to be protected from the elements, a box truck is a good option.

Factors to Consider

There are a few factors that you should consider when choosing a heavy-duty truck. The first factor to consider is the size of the truck. You will need to determine how large of a load you need to transport and choose a truck that is big enough to accommodate your needs. The next factor to consider is the type of engine that the truck has. Diesel engines are typically more powerful than gasoline engines, and they are better suited for hauling heavy loads. The final factor to consider is the cost of the truck. Heavy-duty trucks can be expensive, so you will need to determine how much you are willing to spend on your truck. Additionally, you should also be familiar with the common truck problems and how you can prevent or solve them so that they don’t end up causing more damage and expensive repair cost.

Internet of Things and trucking

How IoT Improves Trucking

Posted on by Ryan Clay

The trucking industry is ripe for the taking by the Internet of Things. With so many trucks on the road, there is a lot of potential for interconnected devices and systems that can make the trucking process more efficient and safer. From tracking cargo to monitoring driver health, there are many ways that IoT can improve trucking.

What Is The Internet Of Things?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a term for the interconnectedness of devices and systems. These devices can include anything from smart thermostats and lights to interconnected vehicles and industrial equipment.

IoT devices are connected to the internet and can share data with each other. This data can be used to automate processes, make better decisions, and improve efficiency.

The Benefits Of IoT In Trucking

There are many ways that IoT can improve trucking. Some of these benefits include:

Increased Efficiency

Devices that are interconnected can share data and communicate with each other, resulting in a more efficient process. For example, imagine a truck that is connected to a loading dock. The dock could send information to the truck about what cargo is being loaded and when it is expected to be finished. This would allow the truck to plan its route and departure time accordingly.

Reduced Costs

Interconnected devices can also help to reduce costs. For example, if a truck is connected to a fleet management system, the system can track the truck’s location and route. This information can be used to plan the most efficient routes and avoid traffic congestion.

Improved Safety

IoT devices can also be used to improve safety in the trucking industry. For example, if a truck is equipped with sensors that monitor the driver’s health, the truck can alert the driver when they are getting tired or need to take a break. This would help to prevent accidents caused by fatigue.

Getting Started With IoT For Trucking Businesses

If you’re looking to get started with IoT in the trucking industry, there are a few things you need to consider. First, you need to identify the devices and systems that would be most beneficial for your business. Once you have identified these devices, you need to find a way to connect them to the internet.

You may also need to consider hiring or training staff who are familiar with IoT and can help you to implement it into your business.

Is IoT For Trucks Worth Investing?

As a business, you need to weigh the costs and benefits of investing in IoT for your trucking business. However, there are many potential benefits that make it worth considering.

IoT can help you to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety. It can also help you to get a competitive edge by making your business more efficient and productive. If you’re looking to improve your trucking business, IoT is definitely worth considering.

Low-Cost IoT For Small Trucking Businesses

If you’re a small trucking business, you may be hesitant to invest in IoT. However, there are many low-cost options available that can help you to get started.

One option is to use cloud-based services to connect your devices to the internet. This can be a cost-effective way to get started with IoT without having to invest in expensive hardware.

Another option is to use open-source software to build your own IoT solutions. This can be a great way to get started with IoT if you have the technical expertise.

If you’re looking for a low-cost way to get started with IoT, cloud-based services and open-source software are great options.

These services can be used to collect and analyze data, create reports, and more.

Another option is to use mobile apps to connect your devices. Mobile apps allow you to collect data and control your devices from a smartphone or tablet. This can be a cost-effective way to get started with IoT for your trucking business.

The Future Of Trucking With IoT

The potential for IoT in the trucking industry is limitless. As more and more businesses adopt IoT, the possibilities for improvement will continue to grow. In the future, we can expect to see even more interconnected devices and systems that work together to make the trucking process more efficient and safe.

Trucking is a vital part of the American economy, and the Internet of Things (IoT) offers great potential to improve this industry.

diesel tank on a truck

Lowering Fuel Expenses For Your Trucking Business

Posted on by Ryan Clay

In order for your trucking business to succeed, your profits must exceed your expenses. As trucking company owners, you may have observed that fuel expenses are volatile. It is a goal of every trucking company to control or lower their fuel expenses. But how does one do it? What can you do to help lower the fuel expenses and therefore improve your trucking business?

There are many factors that could affect your fuel expenses. In order to help lower it down, let us break down the factors into various categories then look at what can be done to lower the expenses. 

Driving Behavior

One of the most influential factors when it comes to fuel consumption and expenses is driver behavior. One way to help lessen the expenses on fuel is to reduce idle time and top-end speed. 

Drivers could be more inspired to do this if you give them incentives or rewards for best practices. Sometimes, you also need to educate the drivers by providing training or seminars. In that way, it would be easier for them to figure out what to do. 

All About The Equipment

Did you know that the fuel expenses are also affected by the equipment and equipment parts that you use? One of the things that could help your trucks efficiently is to use low viscosity engine oils. This will help reduce the internal drag so your engine won’t be using that much fuel too.

Equipment maintenance is also a key to keeping your fuel expenses low. Well-maintained trucks are more efficient and that means that less fuel will be wasted. 

You should also take a look at the trailing equipment. Lift axles installed on trailers help lessen rolling resistance. Additionally, there is also aerodynamic equipment that could be added like side skirts, trailer wigs, wheel covers, and gap reducers. 

There are also some trucks that are more efficient in fuel consumption than others. These ones should be chosen because they could help you save on costs in the long run. There are also some parts that could be replaced to make the trucks more efficient like alternators

Fuel Purchasing

Another way to lessen expenses in fuel is to buy fuel wholesale. You can also negotiate discounts or find buying programs that will help you save on fuel purchases. Just make sure that even the fuel is still of high quality even if you are buying it at a discount price.

Company’s Culture

In order to save on fuel, you need all employees to be on board with this goal. To succeed, it would be best to educate the drivers as well as non-drivers about fuel economy and its importance to sustaining your business.

Although you could educate and instruct employees about fuel efficiency, there is no guarantee that they would do it. You can improve the chances of your employees helping you save on fuel costs by giving them incentives. 

Measure And Improve

You need to know how to measure your progress. Being able to accurately measure it is key to making sure that your efforts are all worth it. In order to correctly measure, you may use key performance indicators. These will measure and compare fuel economy and fuel expense. 

Today, the electric systems that are fitted in the trucks can readily give us actual readings and data about the gas mileage. However, improvement in gas mileage shouldn’t be the only focus. 

There are some practices that could save on fuel mileage but could also increase the cost of maintenance and repairs. An example is attaching aero bumpers. These will help direct the air up and avoid swirling underneath. However, due to the very low position, they are also prone to damage. That could cost more in the repairs or replacements. To really be successful in lowering the expenses in fuel, you shouldn’t also be spending more on other areas.  

Red diesel truck moving by a road with some freight

Why Are Diesel Trucks So Awesome?

Posted on by Ryan Clay

Is your car powered by diesel? Do you have trucks that run on diesel instead of gasoline? Diesel trucks are great as an all-around vehicle for hauling heavy loads. We simply love diesel trucks. They are awesome! But what exactly makes diesel trucks so awesome? Let’s discuss each one of them below.

Efficient

Compared to engines that are powered by gasoline, diesel engines are far more efficient. They are twice as efficient as gasoline-powered vehicles. That’s why most trucks are powered by diesel. They are more cost-effective, especially when used by transport, logistics, or hauling businesses.

Clean Diesel

Due to the more stringent standards when it comes to protecting the environment, diesel today is much cleaner than they were back then. Various versions of clean diesel are available. They already have very low sulfur so they burn cleaner. 

Additionally, biodiesel is also available. The great thing about diesel engines is that they require minimal modification to use biodiesel. Most of them can readily run on high-quality biodiesel blends. 

Great At High Altitudes

Do you live or service places with higher altitudes? Diesel engines work well in those areas too. Gasoline-powered engines usually need a specific ratio of air and fuel to run properly. 

However, in higher altitudes, there are fewer air molecules per cubic foot. That is what you call thinner air.  In such scenarios, the car compensates by lessening fuel to keep the ratio. This can decrease the performance of vehicles with gasoline engines.

As for trucks with diesel engines, the turbochargers provide more air in the combustion chambers. That makes the diesel trucks perform better especially when it comes to higher altitudes.

Less Flammable

As compared to gasoline, diesel is safer to store and handle. Diesel is a more stable liquid than gasoline even in outdoor temperatures. Gasoline is more likely to have vapors that are flammable. That’s why it would ignite much faster even before the fire reaches the liquid portion of the gasoline.

No Spark Plugs Needed

Spark plugs are only used by gasoline-powered engines. The spark plug ignites the mixture of gasoline and air, which the piston compresses. 

On the other hand, diesel engines don’t require a spark plug. Heat, which is already present in the internal combustion chamber is what starts the reaction. 

Great For Moderate Speeds

You don’t really need your trucks running too fast. In fact, it would be better and safer for them to run at moderate speeds. Most trucks run at moderate speeds so that they can be better controlled. 

For peak power, most recommend keeping the engine at 2000 rpm. Moderate speeds are perfect for huge trucks. That’s why diesel engines are also a great match with them.

preventive maintenance for trucks

Preventive Maintenance For Trucking Businesses

Posted on by Ryan Clay

Whether you are starting small with your trucking business or opening a big one, preventive maintenance programs should be on the top of your to-do list. You can market all you want, give discounts and promos to gain loads of clients but you also have to make sure that your trucks can handle the load. 

Did you purchase brand new trucks for your business? Or did you get used ones to save some cash on the start-up expenses? Either way, all those trucks need a preventive maintenance program to keep them in their best shape for longer.

Additionally, it’s a requirement that you check, repair and maintain your vehicles plus the equipment used. Make sure that the maintenance procedures get done and documented properly so you won’t get in trouble and your trucks will last. We’ll tell you how to get that done below.

What Is Preventive Maintenance?

Preventive maintenance is something that isn’t only applicable to trucks for trucking businesses. It is also needed by most of the machines to make sure that they are functioning at their peak performance. That helps maintain safety, quality and efficiency of the machines.

Preventive maintenance doesn’t always mean doing complicated procedures. Most preventive maintenance procedures are simple and small. Examples of those include cleaning, checking of fluid levels, oiling and simple inspections done by the naked eye. Additionally, it may also involve replacing parts that are prone to wear and tear due to use. Such parts would include air filter, tires, brake linings, and others.

The main purpose of having a preventive maintenance program is to help save on cost in the long run. When parts are properly cared for, they are less likely to get damaged. Apart from that, replacing parts that tend to wear down before they are completely worn down prevents serious issues that are likely to be more costly. Additionally, this also helps keep the safety of the truck driver plus all others who are near the truck. 

Steps To Creating A Preventive Maintenance Program

It may seem that creating a preventive maintenance program is costly and complicated to implement. It could, by getting organized and following these steps, can help you make it simpler and easier to do. 

Step 1: Make An Inventory Of Your Fleet

The very first thing you need to do is to note each of the vehicles that you have in your fleet. Even if the trucks are the same models, they may still require different maintenance procedures. That’s because they may be used differently. The roads they travel and the conditions they go through may not be identical. 

The maintenance program for each of the trucks will depend on a variety of factors including the miles they covered, the fuel systems they use, the weather conditions they go through and the type of truck they are. It can seem complicated at first but having a list will make things a whole lot simpler. 

Plus, you also need to have proper and accurate maintenance records for each of the vehicles. The records are required to be kept for at least a year as long as the vehicle is still in use. If the vehicle is decommissioned, you still need to keep the records for at least 6 months. 

Step 2: Schedule The Maintenance Of Each Vehicle

Use your least to help you plan when each vehicle should be due for maintenance procedures. As we’ve mentioned, the maintenance procedure will depend on various factors. That is also true for the schedule of the maintenance procedures. 

You can base the schedule with the vehicle’s engine hours, mileage, and fuel levels. Sometimes, you can also have preventive maintenance ahead of schedule. This could be done when the truck is already near the service station. In that way, you can better use the downtime between the trips and be more productive. 

Step 3: Train Your Drivers

Your drivers should be trained not only to drive well but also to inspect the trucks they drive. They are the first ones to notice whether their trucks aren’t performing well or if it seems that something is wrong with them. 

Train them to do pre-trip inspections. You can even create a checklist for them so they won’t forget any part. Divide the checklist into categories to make it easier for everyone to do the inspection. Inspection should fall on categories such as the brakes, tires, fluids, and electrical.

Step 4: Document And Keep The Record

The checklist you provide for your drivers is a great way to start the documentation process of preventive maintenance. Keep the checklist together with the other records of repairs, replacements and checks done on each vehicle. 

Although paper documentation is an option, digitally saving them on the computer makes the records more organized and less likely to get lost, stolen or damaged. Additionally, digitally saving them on the computer also makes it much easier to search for the records in case you need to. 

truck safety

Defensive Driving For Truck Drivers

Posted on by Ryan Clay

Truck drivers have a huge responsibility in their hands. They control big and powerful vehicles to transport goods. They are an important part of the logistic system. With such huge and powerful vehicles, there can also be disastrous consequences when they meet accidents on the road. Truck drivers should be extra careful not only for their own safety but for the safety of other people on the road as well. 

However, even if truck drivers follow the traffic rules, there can be other car owners or pedestrians that aren’t just careful. There are times when truck drivers really aren’t to blame when they get involved in road accidents. One way to help lessen the risk of truck drivers meeting accidents on the road is to practice defensive driving. 

What Is Defensive Driving?

Defensive driving is a way of driving that isn’t only advisable for truck drivers but also for other drivers as well. It is driving while being on high alert and on the lookout for potential hazards or changes in road conditions because truck drivers shouldn’t only be careful when there is a hurricane. With this type of driving, the driver can better make decisions due to the anticipated dangerous situations. With this, truck drivers can lessen the chances of getting involved in accidents.

When truck drivers practice defensive driving, they do not only increase their safety while on the road. They also help lessen potential expenses by fleet managers due to repairs or claim payouts. 

Defensive Driving Strategies

Truck drivers may already be practicing defensive driving without knowing that it is defensive driving. However, to make it more clearer and to give you better ideas on how to do it, here are a few strategies that truck drivers could practice.

Know Your Blind Spots

Even smaller cars have blind spots. With larger vehicles, there is also a blind spot and most of the time, accidents are due to drivers not seeing a car because it is in their blind spot. Knowing the blind spot area should be the first step. Next is to encourage your drivers to look over their shoulder or out the window in case they change lanes. This helps them see what’s in their blind spot. 

Maintain Your Distance

One way to prevent a rear or a forward collision is to keep your distance from the car in front or behind you. It is recommended to have at least a 3- or 4-second distance when you’re traveling at about 40 mph. For every 10mph of additional speed, add another second to your distance from the car in front of you. Also, add more seconds when dangerous conditions are present. These would include strong winds, rain, or icy roads. 

Use Your Signal Lights

Even if you are driving at non-peak hours,make it a habit to use your signal lights. Signal lights will help prevent collision because drivers will know where you are headed. Even if no one sees your signal light when you change lanes, you should still use them.

Maintain Your Cool

Road rage is dangerous and can increase the risk of road accidents. When you meet angry drivers on the road, it is best to keep your cool. Avoid tailgating them and keep your distance or increase your distance so you can better calm yourself. It is best to avoid such instances than regret it later on. 

Avoid Distractions

When driving, your focus should be on driving and on the road. It is best not to eat, smoke, drink, or use your phone while driving. If you are hungry, go to a stop and eat there. Fleet managers should give their truck drivers ample time to travel from one point to another plus additional time for breaks. Even with tandem driving, the drivers still need some time to eat, rest, and stretch. 

trucking IoT

Impact Of IoT On The Trucking Industry

Posted on by Ryan Clay

In order to remain competitive in the trucking industry, you should seriously think of using the available technologies for efficiency. Figure out which of your trucks are loaded, how long it takes for them to be loaded and unloaded, exactly where your trucks are, and the most efficient route to take.

These are just some of the aspects you need to know on a daily basis to efficiently run the tracking business. All these things and so much more information can be easily accessible to you through the help of IoT or the Internet of Things. 

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truck driver retirement

Retiring As A Truck Driver

Posted on by Ryan Clay

Being a truck driver is a great profession. It’s like I get paid to travel for a living, and there’s alot of follow truckers I meet every day that feel the same way.

While it’s not for everyone, some people even choose to be a truck driver as a second career after retiring from their first careers.

At some point there will come a time when your days as a truck driver are up. While I’ve got a few more years behind the wheel, many long haulers are asking themselves at what age to retire and what do I need to be ready to make the switch.

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