Truck Sites We Like
Monthly picks of the best on the web
DEBORAH LOCKRIDGE
SENIOR EDITOR
Each month, HDT presents overviews of some trucking web sites we like. They are gauged primarily on what casual visitors to the sites experience. For the most part, that means what computer types refer to as "look and feel." We're also looking for user friendliness and that little something extra.
You can nominate web sites for "Truck Sites We Like" by e-mailing Senior Editor Deborah Lockridge at dlockridge@truckinginfo.com.
www.dieselforum.org
Diesel Technology Forum, Herndon, Va.
Think you know everything there is to know about diesel engines? We bet you'll discover something new at this understated, well-put-together site of the Diesel Technology Forum.
The home page offers recent news about diesel engines, with clever icons next to each headline cluing you in to whether it's about trucking, automotive, school bus or marine applications. News releases are in a separate column.
One of the unique aspects of the site is a section devoted to retrofitting diesel engines to produce lower emissions. It offers information about the EPA's Voluntary Diesel Retrofit program, including available technologies, funding sources, pilot programs and key contacts, plus the latest news relating to diesel retrofits.
There are two other sections that are real gems. One is devoted to a variety of features, such as the in-depth one on the diesel emissions situation in California, and quick "did you know" facts such as, "Without diesel, rail transportation costs would increase by 48%, trucking costs by 56%." The other offers fact sheets about topics such as smoke testing, all about diesel, and regulations.
The site is not flashy, but it's pleasing to the eye and easy to navigate. If you're interested in diesel engines, bookmark this one.
www.jjbodies.com
J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers, Somerset, Pa.
This is another good example of a site that does what it's supposed to do and does it well without resorting to gimmicks. Using a consistent color and graphic scheme throughout, J&J Truck Bodies makes it easy to find what you're looking for.
The information is divided primarily into four sections: "Unbeatable Quality," "Built Your Way," "Our Product Line," and "Customer Service." The home page also features the latest news from the company, and there are links on each page for "Home," "Contact," "Site Help," "Job Opps" and "Request Info."
In "Built Your Way," you can read case studies, download the company's quarterly newsletter in PDF format, or read press releases. "Unbeatable Quality" offers background information on the company and its partners and OEMs.
Of course, what you really want to know is about the bodies and trailers the company offers. That's where "Our Product Line" shines. Choose from Dump Bodies, Trailers or Specialty Solutions and you'll get a page with short descriptions and sharp photos of each model. Click on a model and you'll get a description, with standard specs and popular options. If you want more information, just fill out the online form. You'll also find a page of in-stock new and used equipment available for purchase, and where to find distributors.
