As many of you are aware, I’ve been known to make the occasional pit stop at my local pub after work.

Over the years, the conversations I’ve engaged in with the regulars ranged from politics to sports.

Occasionally, I’ll meet up with drivers and owner/operators who are more than willing to voice their opinions on our industry and where it’s going.

Lately though, I’m getting a little concerned. For some reason, we’ve switched topics.

No longer do we talk about V.J., the NHL farce or college football. We’ve now moved onto something that’s much more meaningful…saving a buck.

Food deals of the week is where it usually starts.

Someone (we’ll call him Chris to protect the guilty) has searched the city and offers up that prime rib is on sale for $3.99 per pound.

Another brags that he picked up frozen pizzas for half price and of course I fall into their trap offering up that a local deli is selling a sandwich, bowl of soup and can of pop for $3.75, taxes in.

Yet another (who just happens to drive for a living) is ecstatic that “Hungry Man Dinners” (his main source of nourishment) are on sale.

Obviously he hasn’t seen “Supersize me” since he’s also a frequent user of the McDonald’s Truckers Discount Card.

To his credit, he holds his costs in check by also packing a healthy lunch each day.

It seems we’re all looking for a deal these days and is there any wonder why?

The spiraling cost of gas, insurance and just plain living are making us all scramble to save a loonie.

I find myself delaying filling up in the hope that the ever-changing cost of petrol will take a dip. Usually it doesn’t and I end up running on fumes until I’m forced to take action.

Nine times out of 10, that dip I was waiting for will happen the very next day. It’s just the way it works.

I know many owner/operators whose fuel costs have in some cases doubled over the past year.

Now is the time to seriously look at your various options.

There are products out there designed to save you money.

Not all perhaps work as well as the manufacturer may lead you to think, but many do.

Do your due diligence.

Attend the trade shows and read the trucking publications. These types of products can go a long way in propping up your bottom line.

– Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Truck News and he can be reached at 416-510-5123.