It is an industry-wide issue and has been for decades – the shortage of well-trained, qualified truck service technicians. Few interactions between customer and dealership can sour that relationship more than a negative service experience. Extended downtime and return trips to the shop for the same problem result in customer frustration and a direct hit to the bottom line.

Just as fleets make great efforts to recruit top drivers, dealerships invest significant money and resources to help train and hire the next generation of cream-of-the-crop techs.

JX Truck Centers know how vital a positive service experience is to customer satisfaction. Exceeding expectations in the shop is always a priority and by hiring top talent we take care of our customers. In return, those customers are going to come back and they are also going to tell their peers. That not only increases our business and further strengthens our reputation, but it also bonds us with our customers.

Quality service work and fix-it-right-the-first-time principles are essential to creating an overall superior customer experience. We go to great lengths to nurture and attract future service technicians, as well as make sure the nearly 300 service technicians already hard at work in our shops receive ongoing training in the latest technologies and best practices.

Partnering With Top Tech Schools

Our recruiting team has forged strong relationships with leading technical schools throughout the nation. We regularly partner with schools such as the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH), WyoTech, Universal Technical Institute (UTI), Lincoln Tech, and over 25 other vocational institutions.

These relationships create many opportunities and activities, such as serving as guest speakers, participating in job fairs, and even helping these colleges attract new students by bolstering their recruitment efforts at the high school and junior high levels. We donate major components for hands-on instruction, such as the recent Cummins engine gifted to Lincoln Land Community College. We even bring trucks to schools to let students inspect firsthand the complexity and sophistication of the latest equipment they will be working with upon graduation.

We participate on the advisory boards of these schools, providing guidance on what students should be taught and trained for to help them excel in their careers. We help steer the curriculum to prepare for the new technologies and features coming down the pipeline. 

Soft skills are just as important to future techs’ success. JX recruiters visit classrooms to help students prepare for landing a service technician position – how to build a resume, phone, and in-person interview skills and how to choose the right dealership that meets their needs and furthers their career objectives.

For most dealerships and service shops, providing competitive pay and benefits, free tool programs, sign-on bonuses, and relocation packages are the norm and not the exception. JX helps set itself apart by making an impact as early as possible. We are there preparing them for future success before they even apply for their first job.

Helping the Industry

We know not every student we help will join the service teams throughout our 28-location network, the largest in the Midwest. We want them to be successful, whether it is with a JX Truck Center or another company. Making sure students enter the workforce with the best possible training and skills helps the industry as a whole and ensures our customers receive the best care.

This dedication to providing customers with superior service experiences does not end after we hire a tech. Our culture – both in the shop and throughout all of our operations – focuses on continuous improvement. Whether our service technicians are recent graduates or veterans of the profession, extensive training is ongoing throughout their careers.

For new hires, we have an eight-month tech development plan that includes technical training and customer service skills. And for all technicians, there is an array of comprehensive training provided, both online and in the classroom, many led by our own JX training team, which ensures they are knowledgeable and certified.

Every year, something in our products changes. We require our service team to be trained on the latest truck and component updates. 

It is inherent to our customer service philosophy: employing the best techs armed with the latest training, skills, tools, and best practices. It helps ensure when a customer visits a JX Truck Center, they leave with peace of mind knowing the work was done right, and they received the best possible care and consideration in the industry.

Author: Nick Stafford, Talent Acquisition Lead, JX Enterprises

The post Solving the Service Technician Crunch One Student at a Time appeared first on JX.

It’s almost unfair to set aside one week to honor the more than 3.5 million men and women who make the American way of life possible. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), trucks carry nearly 75 percent of the nation’s goods by tonnage, accounting for nearly every commodity used in our lives. 

This annual appreciation campaign has grown with widespread support and participation and highlights a profession that should never lose recognition. The JX team has deployed the iconic Chuck Wagons to serve breakfast or lunch to the drivers of our fleet partners while also providing complimentary refreshments and giveaways at our locations throughout Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. These are small ways of showing gratitude for the millions of men and women who work behind the wheel.

JX Enterprises, and its network of 28 JX Truck Centers, understand the many challenges and rewards truckers face throughout their careers. Our more than 1,000 team members send a sincere thank you every day, especially as a part of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. 

The JX mission is to go the extra mile during every visit to a JX Truck Center. Our passion is to ensure every contact exceeds expectations and puts a smile on the face of the incredible drivers we meet. Whether buying a new or used truck, maintenance or repair, or providing parts, we strive to ensure the appreciation the JX team recognizes is apparent every time we have the opportunity to serve our drivers. 

Author: From the Entire Team at JX Enterprises

The post When It Comes To Truckers, Everyday Is A Day To Say Thanks appeared first on JX.

While a shortage of drivers isn’t rare to the industry, supply chain challenges limiting production of new trucks is much less common. Truck manufacturers have been stymied to meet demand as component shortages and, especially, the global computer chip shortage suppress build rates. As a result, customers are experiencing long wait times to take delivery on new vehicles.

But challenges create opportunities, and there are many of those available in the pre-owned truck marketplace.

Quality, late-model used trucks are available for both owner-operators and fleet managers. These truck options provide an ideal solution to expand operations or replace aging units. With the current market conditions, one might assume it’s a seller’s market. Surprisingly, it’s not – it’s a great time to buy a used truck.

Throughout the JX Truck Center network, we have premium, JX-certified, low-mileage vehicles of many makes and models. Not only are they priced to move, we’re offering customers tailor-made promotional packages for a limited time, so they’re moving fast. Here’s a look at some of the options we’re offering.

• Flexible Financing: Through both JX Financial and Alltrux Capital, paying for a pre-owned truck is easier and more affordable. Low interest rates, adjustable or matched down payments, extended terms and flexible payment options are available to custom-fit your needs.
• Peace-of-Mind Guarantees: All of our pre-owned inventory undergoes rigorous inspection and thorough maintenance before going on our lots. Additionally, we’re offering extended warranties and can even include them in your financing plan.
• Added Value: Another customizable option is to receive prepaid fuel cards or credit towards parts and service, including our exclusive Alltrux parts.

So if you’re tired of waiting for the supply chain to start flowing normally again and need a truck to expand or as a replacement, there are plenty of options with JX that aren’t just viable – they’re extremely favorable! And if you’re looking for an advantage to attract drivers to your fleet, having a late-model, premium-condition truck waiting for them is a great recruitment tool.

Contact your local JX Truck Center or call 1-833-459-8782 to learn more about ways we can customize your next truck purchase, and check out our inventory to find the truck that’s right for you!

Author: Cindy Campbell, Vice President of Used Truck Sales and Financing

The post Tired of Waiting on a New Truck? Now Is the Time to Buy Pre-Owned! appeared first on JX.

Now available at JX Truck Center: Peterbilt 536 and 537 Models with the NEW Cummins Natural Gas Engine

Peterbilt has announced the availability of the Cummins B6.7N natural gas engine in the new Peterbilt 536 and Peterbilt 537 medium-duty non-CDL trucks.

Since our world is going toward new and near-zero emissions, this will lower NOx emissions by 50% to meet the requirements of the EPA. This engine will be from 200-240HP and 520-560 LBS ft torque. This engine will be mounted in Peterbilt 536 and Peterbilt 537 2.1m wide cabs equipped with a 7″ digital display. By offering this to our customers, we will be expanding the Peterbilt lineup further, giving our customers more options when they are in need of a new medium-duty truck.

Interested customers are now able to order three natural gas trucks from JX Truck Center that will assist with achieving a near-zero-emission fleet to help out the environment.

Contact your local JX Truck Center sales executives today to get more information on the new natural gas engine offered in the Peterbilt 536 and Peterbilt 537 medium-duty trucks.

Author: Zach Meier, Sales Executive

The post Now available at JX Truck Center: Peterbilt 536 and 537 Models with the NEW Cummins Natural Gas Engine appeared first on JX.

Why Was My Credit Declined!??

When you check your credit score and notice a small drop, it’s usually nothing to worry about. It’s common for credit scores to fluctuate in small increments. 

However, if you see a large drop of at least 15 to 20 points or more, you should find out the cause. This can help you determine whether it fell based on your actions, a credit reporting error, or possibly identity theft.

To help you answer this question, we’ve compiled a list of potential reasons you may have seen your score dip. You’ll also learn some tips on how to solve each issue so you can improve your credit score.

6 Reasons Your Credit Score can Drop

1. Derogatory Remarks on Your Credit Reports (i.e. bankruptcy, collections, and foreclosure)
2. Inaccurate Information on Your Credit Reports reviews the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can review all three reports for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you believe someone has stolen your identity, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through IdentityTheft.gov and freeze your credit with all three bureaus as soon as possible.
3. You missed a payment – this accounts for 35% of your FICO. Enrolling in autopay reduces the chances of missing any payments.
4. Your credit utilization has increased – this accounts for 30% of your FICO. In general the lower your credit utilization, the better your credit score.
5. One of Your Credit Limits Decreased – watch for lenders reducing your credit limit.
6. You Applied for Multiple credit Products – when you apply for credit, a lender usually performs a hard credit check to review your creditworthiness.  Each credit inquiry can temporarily drop your credit score by up to five points for one year, according to FICO.

6 Things You Should Do If You’ve Been Denied Credit

1. Review the Reason for the Denial
2. Plead Your Case
3. Check Your Credit Report and Credit Score
4. Address Credit Concerns
5. Apply With a Different Lender
6. Continue to Monitor Your Credit

How to Improve Your Credit Score

Get a free copy of your credit report and score so you can understand what is in your credit file. Next, focus on what is bringing your score down and work toward improving these areas.

1. Pay your bills on time
2. Pay down debt
3. Make outstanding payments – get current
4. Dispute inaccurate information on your credit report
5. Limit new credit requests
6. Check into Experian BOOST

What to Do if You Do Not Have a Credit Score

1. Get a secured credit card
2. Become an authorized user on someone’s credit card. (i.e. spouse or family member)

If you have any credit questions or are interested in financing with JX Financial Inc or Alltrux Capital, please reach out to our Finance Experts.  

Your Partner for the Long Haul!

Author:  Connie Marlatt – F&I Executive

The post Why Was My Credit Declined!?? appeared first on JX.

Electronic Stability Control: Now Available on Kalmar Ottawa T2 DOT/EPA!

To comply with the standards set by the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Association for trucks that operate in approved applications, Kalmar Ottawa T2 DOT/EPA Terminal Tractors can be equipped with an optional Electronic Stability Control system.

For select configurations, this system can be combined with ABS and Traction Control to improve handling and safety in your application.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) differs from ABS in that ESC can apply the brakes and throttle control to help maintain stability and reduce the risk of spinning out or jackknifing.

Contact us for an application survey so that the availability of ESC can be determined for your application!

JX Truck Center and Kalmar Ottawa can help you evaluate your needs and ensure that you are ordering the correct product for your application.

JX Truck Center has proudly represented Kalmar Ottawa Terminal Tractors for over 30 years.  If you are interested in a quote, demo or would like more information, visit your local JX or give us a call today! 

Author: Darren Simon, Vocational Sales Manager

The post Electronic Stability Control: Now Available on Kalmar Ottawa T2 DOT/EPA appeared first on JX.

Strong Dealer Network

Author: Zack Meier, Sales Executive

The post Strong Dealer Network appeared first on JX.

Start off Right in the Coldest Months of the Year

JX Truck Center is proud to carry the Alltrux line of batteries to help you and your truck start each day on the right foot during the coldest months of the year. 

With three different offerings – 700CCA (cold cranking amps), 1000CCA and AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries we’re sure to have an offering to meet your needs. 

700CCA – higher CCAs are not always better – this 700CCA offers the highest medium-duty cycle life in the industry at 520 cycles, this group 31 battery is the ideal choice to power extreme cycling applications from sleepers and daycabs to lift gates and reefers. 

1000 CCA – this starting battery features 1000CCAs of power to help offer consistent reliability. 

AGM – this absorbed glass mat battery is perfect for higher electrical demands and start-stop allocations. These batteries are extremely resistant to vibration, completely sealed, non-spillable and are maintenance-free. 

Stop by a JX Truck Center near you and let our Parts Professionals help you select the right Alltrux line battery for your application, helping you get the most power for your spend.

Author: Chelsea Hoffman, Assistant Parts Director

The post Start off Right in the Coldest Months of the Year appeared first on JX.

What is CARB and How will it affect my fleet?

Navigating CARB in 2022

CARB as we all know it today stands for California Air Resources Board is making changes as we head into 2022. CARB is now requiring minimum emissions warranty coverage for all on-road heavy and medium-duty diesel vehicles DOT registered in the state of California.  When a truck is built as a CARB-certified truck it will come with a California Clean Idle Sticker as well as a 5yr/350K >10L engine 5yr/150K <10L engine emission warranty. It should be noted that the states of WI, IN, MI, and IL at the time of publishing this article were not opt-in states for CARB. In order to navigate through the new legislation, JX and Peterbilt have put together some FAQs to help. As always for full details on how this affects your state please check your state’s legislation for specifics.

1.Which vehicles are impacted by this new legislation?

• Vehicles are impacted that meet all 4 conditions below:
• All diesel trucks and tractors • GVWR >14,000 pounds
• Vehicle Build Start in the calendar year 2022
• Vehicles registered in the United States

2. Who is required to have CARB warranty?

CARB certification is required for all vehicles that meet the conditions of question 1 AND will DOT register their vehicle in California or a CARB opt-in state. Additionally, any customers wanting a California clean idle sticker must specify CARB certification.

3. Which states REQUIRE CARB warranty?

The current assessment at the time of publishing this article is that only trucks DOT registered in California require CARB warranty. Customers are responsible for understanding their own state requirements and complying accordingly and should continue to monitor for local changes.

4. How do I know if my vehicle has CARB warranty?

For trucks with MY22 engines and beyond, there are 2 ways to identify if your truck has CARB warranty. The 1st is that the sales order will have an option code indicating a CARB compliance and the warranty will reflect the time frames above. The 2nd method of identification is if your truck has a California Clean Idle label.

5. Can I operate a vehicle without CARB warranty in a CARB State?

Yes, all vehicles can operate in CARB States, however, MY22 and beyond vehicles must have CARB warranty to receive a California Clean Idle label. Customers are encouraged to review idling restrictions in their area of operation to evaluate if they would need the Clean Idle label. Truckingresearch.org is one source that compiles idling restrictions, however, it is encouraged that customers check intended areas of operation as well.

6. Can I get a California clean idle label if I do not purchase the CARB warranty?

No, California Clean Idle label is only available for vehicles with CARB warranty. Customers are encouraged to review idling restrictions in their area of operation to evaluate if they need the Clean Idle label.

7. Can I purchase CARB warranty if I will register my vehicle in a non-CARB state?

Yes, customers who will register their vehicles in non-CARB states can purchase CARB warranty. A customer may want to do this for the additional warranty coverage or the California Clean Idle label.

8. What is the difference between a vehicle with and without the California Clean Idle Label?

Engines have identical hardware and software. The only difference is the emissions warranty.

9. Can I add CARB warranty after the final warranty registration?

No. Once final warranty registration is complete, CARB warranty can no longer be added.

If you have any questions or would like more information, contact your local JX Truck Center sales executive today!

Author: Dan Tinder, Fleet Account Manager

The post What is CARB and How will it affect my fleet? appeared first on JX.

Is it the Right Time to Buy Equipment?

The answer is, YES! With more and more states opening back up for business or even starting a business, now is the perfect time to start expanding your business.

Low Rates Make Financing Affordable

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With people eager to get back to full production this is an excellent time to buy.

The Fed has kept interest rates low in order to encourage businesses to make the expenditures they need.  JX Financial Inc and ALLTRUX Capital LLC provide equipment financing you can count on.  

Tax Advantages of “Section 179” vs. “Bonus Depreciation”

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Another good reason to purchase equipment. What are the tax advantages? Click on the link and see our blog from earlier this year. It is a quick and helpful read.  “Section 179” vs “ Bonus Depreciation”  

What information do you need to finance my truck or trailer

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• Credit application
• Copy of CDL
• Two years of verifiable driving/working history preferred.

We have finance solutions for customers with less than perfect credit and first-time buyers.

Get in touch today to learn more about what we can do for you.

We have many loyal customers. JX Financial Inc and ALLTRUX Capital LLC would like to thank you for your continued business. It is always a pleasure serving you and we certainly look forward to doing business with you in the New Year.

For your equipment needs check us out at JXE.com

Author: Connie Marlatt – F&I Executive                                            “Your Partner for the Long Haul”

The post Is it the Right Time to Buy Equipment? appeared first on JX.