Trucker 107 Hirchak 2

Spotlight on an American Trucker: Nor-Cal Moving Services

June 3, 2015
The purpose of “Spotlight on an American Trucker” is to bring our readership to life, by putting names and faces alongside their successes. If you know of a small or micro business that utilizes trucks in the course of doing business that you’d like us to feature in “Spotlight on an American Trucker,” please send their contact information to [email protected].Nor-Cal Moving Services
Owner-Operator:
 Bob Hirchak, leased to Nor-Cal Moving Services/agent for Allied Van LinesLocation: Hayward CA

Bob Hirchak Jr. was named the 2014 Super Van Operator of the Year in the Household Goods category. American Moving & Storage Assn. recognized Hirchak for his remarkable safety record and dedication to superior customer service. In trucking for 31 years, Hirchak was with North American Van Lines from 1984 to 1988 and has now been with Allied Van Lines since 1988. He owns a 2014 Volvo 780 and pulls a Kentucky household trailer. Hirchak  runs 48 states but typically moves household goods from the Midwest (Chicago) to California.

Q:  How are maintenance and minor repairs handled? Do you use an OEM shop (truck dealer or engine manufacturer shop) or an independent truck repair shop?

A:  Ninety percent of the time, I have my truck maintained at Pozzo Volvo Dealership in Gary, IN. I have it regularly inspected and always keep it in tip-top condition. I try to buy a new truck every four years, so I don’t encounter major problems. Any problem is handled ASAP, because safety is very important to me. All work is done by certified mechanics.

Q: How are major repairs handled?
A: I've been fortunate not to have major repairs, due to buying a new truck every four years or so. Also, Allied Van Lines has a mandatory DOT inspection for both tractor and trailer every six months. I have both greased every two months and tire air pressure checked weekly.


Q: What are major challenges with your maintenance/repair program?
A: The only challenge I face is wait time. Dealers can’t always get you in right away (when I’m OTR). Sometimes you have to wait a few days, so I always take my truck in for maintenance/repairs when I’m at home.

Q: How do you minimize downtime? What are your  PM intervals?
A: I schedule maintenance during my time off. I service the truck every 18,000 to 20,000 mi., which is a shorter interval than the manufacturer suggests.

Q: How do you ensure good mileage from tires? 
A: I rotate the tires and always make sure the tire pressure is correct. I drive the speed limit or slower and swear by Michelin Tires. I’ve never used retreads.

Q: What do you do to ensure CSA compliance for your trucks/trailers?
A: I have had a perfect CSA score since CSA started. I always keep a clean truck. I wash it at Blue Beacon two or three times a month. I keep the dashboard clean and always keep the inside spotless. 

Q: What do you enjoy most about trucking and hauling the freight you do?
A: Household drivers deal with different customers every move, so it’s never the same job twice. Every move is unique in its own way, and you get to meet all kinds of wonderful people.

We want to hear from you. Know of a trucking business we should feature? Send their contact information to [email protected].

About the Author

Tim Brady

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Increase your fleet’s fuel economy with the right lubricants

See how Mobil Delvac™ oils boosted GP Transco's fleet.

Career Minded

The Peterbilt Technician Institute teaches you the skills needed for a lucrative and fulfilling career, transforming students into certified diesel technicians. Maximize your ...

Harnessing the Power of AI for Smarter Fleet Operations

Discover how AI is transforming fleet operations by providing real-time diagnostics and data-driven insights. Join our webinar to explore practical ways to harness AI for smarter...

Trucking KPIs on Autopilot: Optimize Performance with a TMS

Discover 7 essential KPIs that will revolutionize your fleet's performance. From cost-per-mile to shipment volume, learn how a TMS can put your profits on autopilot. Unlock the...