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Choosing an Accountant
May is the month that Operators evaluate their Accountant’s performance. It is the time to judge value in their services. In my first book (2007), I have a whole chapter on Choosing an Accountant. The most important thing is value; do you get a benefit from your existing firm’s services more than what you could get elsewhere? Calculating value is not difficult, especially if you have hard facts to use as your variables.
If you have a truck that gets 6 miles per gallon and you compare it to another truck that gets 7 miles per gallon there is value in the latter that isn’t in the former. If the trucks purchase price, long-term value (after depreciation) and maintenance are virtually identical, the value of the 7-mile-per-gallon truck is about $10001200 per month in reduced fuel expense. That’s VALUE of $12,000-$15,000 per year, truck over truck.
Most of the time, the same method can be used to calculate the value of an Accountant. The critical issues to compare, however, must be acknowledged: Accountant’s location (ease of communication and documentation transfer), availability and punctuality of Accountant’s performance (consistent GST filing and refunds), and ultimately NET annual remittance to Canada Revenue Agency.
Robert D. Scheper
It is generally believed and accepted that all Accountants will arrive at the same net annual remittance to CRA if they all follow the rules allowed in the industry. This is both a true and false assumption. Though there can be slightly different methods to complete all returns to CRA that may produce differences, if everyone follows the rules to their chosen method, the difference is negligible (a few hundred dollars at most). For example, if the net taxable earnings are $70,000 and one Accountant chooses to file it all as corporate income and then issue dividends, the net taxes may be $20,000 ($7,000 corporate taxes and $13,000 dividend taxes). However, another Accountant may file it all as earned income (T4), having the corporation file a ZERO earnings return and the operator receive a $70,000 T4 (with source deductions of $19,000 CPP included). Though the income is both the same ($70k) the amount sent to Ottawa it different. In this case, $1000 less for T4 (due to the tax rate not being universal, there are lower tax brackets at the lower income levels, whereas dividend taxes and corporate taxes are one rate applied to the entire $70k). In addition, T4 earnings ($19k in this illustration) includes CPP which is an accumulated benefit for retirement that corporate income and dividends DO NOT supply. Comparing these two options produces a slight difference in net annual payment of $1000 (so true).
HOWEVER, these two options are NOT the only choices you have. Both options use the TL2 to calculate a tax reduction for meal expenses for a truck driver. The TL2 is NOT the only system an Operator/Accountant can use. As described in my first book, using (NTB) nontaxable benefits brings HUGE net tax payable REDUCTION. Using the same scenario and national averages, it would look as follows: $70,000 income less $40,000 (non-taxable benefits) leaves $30,000 in taxable income or $6-7000 in tax remittance. That’s a savings of $12-13,000.
Therefore, the Operators responsibility is to decide which SYSTEM they should use (and not necessarily which Accountant). Drivers should find an Accountant that uses NTB, it’s the system that truly saves Operators mega taxes. The problem is... too many Accountants do not wish to use NTB. It’s an added complexity and potential liability for them to defend to CRA and train their staff/Operators.
Our firm has used the NTB for 23 years now. We have been tracking our clients’ tax savings since 2006 and have saved our clients over $86 million in 20 years. The ONLY way we can sustainably administer the system is through technology. If you have an Accountant that you like and you wish to keep them, have them use our software and system to prepare your returns. Those Accountants who use our software appreciate it more than other accounting software.
In the end, if you’re an Operator, it is YOUR CHOICE which system to use... it is NOT your Accountant’s choice. If they don’t want to use
it... find another Accountant who WILL. This is YOUR tax liability... NOT THEIRS. It’s YOUR business... not theirs. It’s YOUR MONEY!
If you want to increase your cash flow by $1000+ per month, you MUST change your system to NTB. After writing about it and doing it through our firm for 23 years, I am still baffled why most Operators don’t investigate and do it. During these difficult times, many do not have options anymore. It’s a relatively simple change for the Operator and minor change for the accountant. If you’re an Operator, have your Accountant contact me about the needed software used in the system. If they say it’s a hoax... take my advice... your ACCOUNTANT is a “no-brainer”.
About the Author:
Robert D. Scheper is a leading Accountant and Consultant exclusively serving the Lease/ Owner Operator industry in Canada. His first book in the Making Your Miles Count series “taxes, taxes, taxes” was released in 2007. His second book “Choosing a Trucking company” is the most in-depth analysis of the independent operator industry today. He has a Master degree (MBA) in financial management and has been serving the industry since he and his wife came off the road in 1993. His dedication, commitment and strong opinions can be read and heard in many articles and seminars. You can find him at www.makingyourmilescount. com or 1-877-987-9787.
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SAFETY DAWG
Chris Harris
Beyond the Glass: The “Lean and Look” Method for Zero Blind Spots
As we head into May, the industry is buzzing with the arrival of warmer weather and the logistical challenges of the spring surge. This month, I want to focus on a technique that separates the “steering wheel holders” from the true professionals: the “Lean and Look” method. However, before we dive into that, we have some critical regulatory dates to mark on the calendar.
reefer, your load must be secured to prevent leaking, spilling, or shifting. Inspectors will be looking at tiedowns, dunnage, and the integrity of securement systems.
Safety Managers - now is the time to audit your files.
Drivers - now is the time to ensure your pretrips are beyond reproach. Don’t wait until you are in the scale to find out your cargo shifted or your ELD isn’t syncing correctly.
Crucial Compliance Notice: International Roadcheck 2026
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has officially announced that this year’s International Roadcheck will take place from May 12 to May 14. During this 72hour period, inspectors across North America— including right here in Ontario—will be out in force conducting high-volume inspections. While they will be performing standard Level I, II, and III inspections, the CVSA has identified two specific areas of emphasis for 2026 that every driver and safety manager needs to be prepared for:
1. Driver Focus: ELD Tampering and Falsification. Inspectors are going beyond just checking the logs; they are specifically looking for evidence of ELD manipulation, unauthorized edits, and the use of “ghost” drivers or hardware overrides to hide hoursof-service violations. Falsification was a top violation last year, and the industry is under the microscope.
2. Vehicle Focus: Cargo Securement. Whether you are hauling flatbed, van, or
Mastering the “Lean and Look”: A Simple Move to Eliminate Blind Spots
While Roadcheck focuses on the technical side of safety, the “Lean and Look” method focuses on the practical, everyday skill of defensive driving. As traffic volumes increase in May, and brings out more “four-wheelers” who are oblivious to truck blind spots, your ability to see what isn’t visible is your best defence against a multi-million-dollar claim.
The Science of the Static View
Most drivers are taught to adjust their mirrors while sitting in their standard driving position. While this is the correct starting point, it creates a “static view.” This view provides a fixed field of vision based on a single point of perspective. Even with a perfectly adjusted West Coast mirror and a convex wide-angle, there are physical limitations to what a piece of glass can show you from one fixed point in space.
Physics tells us that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. When you sit perfectly still, your field of vision behind
you is locked. If a small car or a motorcycle is hovering just off your right steer tire or tucked behind the edge of your sleeper berth, they are effectively invisible to a static eye.
The Technique: Dynamic Perspective
This is where the “Lean and Look” comes in. It is a simple, physical movement that turns your mirrors from static tools into dynamic scanners. To execute the move, as you prepare for a lane change or a right-hand turn, don’t just glance at the mirror. Physically lean your torso forward toward the steering wheel and slightly toward the passenger side door. By moving your head just 6 to 12 inches forward and inward, you drastically change the angle of the reflection hitting your eyes.
This movement effectively “sweeps” the blind spot. It allows you to see several feet further “inboard” toward the side of your trailer and further “outboard” into the adjacent lane. It is the difference between seeing a car’s bumper and seeing the whole vehicle.
Why “Lean and Look” is Vital in May
We are entering the “Transition Season.” Drivers are coming out of winter “survival mode,” where the primary concern was traction and ice. In May, the hazards change.
• The Four-Wheeler Factor: Families are hitting the roads for weekend trips. These drivers often “hang out” in the “No-Zone” along your passenger side because they are distracted or simply don’t know any better.
• The Glare Factor: The spring sun is lower and brighter, often creating glare on mirrors that can hide small objects. The Lean and Look technique helps you to see “around” the glare by changing your optical perspective.
• Construction Zones: May marks the start of heavy construction. Lanes get narrower, and concrete barriers create tight spaces. The Lean and Look technique is essential for verifying that your trailer isn’t tracking too close to a barrier or a construction worker.
Advice for Safety Managers
If you are leading a safety meeting this month, I challenge you to do a “Mirror Audit” in the yard. Have a driver sit in the cab and tell you when they can see a person walking toward the passenger side. Then, have them perform the Lean and Look. The look of surprise on a driver’s face when they realize they could have missed a whole car is the best training tool you have.
The Professional Standard
In my years as a safety consultant and insurance professional, I have seen hundreds of accident reports that start with the phrase, “I checked my mirrors and it was clear.” The reality is, it looked clear from a static position, but it wasn’t actually clear.
The professional driver understands that mirrors, are only as good as the effort put into using them. Incorporating the Lean and Look into your muscle memory doesn’t cost a dime, it doesn’t require new equipment, and it doesn’t take extra time. It only requires a commitment to a higher standard of safety.
As you prepare for the CVSA Roadcheck from May 12–14, remember that compliance keeps you on the road, but professional techniques like the Lean and Look keep you and everyone else safe on the road.
Stay safe, watch your mirrors, and let’s have a violation-free May.
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Watt & Stewart Commodities Inc. 4134 3rd Street East, Claresholm, AB T0L 0T0
NINE (9) LONG HAUL TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED!
(NOC: 73300)
Employer: Watt & Stewart Commodities Inc.
Work location: 4134 3rd Street East, Claresholm, AB T0L 0T0
& Various routes in Canada and USA
Vacancies: 9 Vacancies
Salary: $36.00/ Hour for 40 -70 Hours / Week (calculated based on mileage and type of rig)
Benefits: Health Benefits: Dental Plan after 3 months of employment, Health Care Plan, Vision care benefits; Financial Benefits: Mileage paid, Safety Bonus, High Mileage Bonus, Retention Bonus and Referral Bonus, Group insurance benefits; Other benefits: Free parking available; Subject to wage increase and incentives
Terms of employment: Permanent, Full time
Start date: As soon as possible
Employment conditions: morning, day, evening, night, weekend, on call.
Languages: English
Education: No degree, certificate or diploma.
Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years
Personal Suitability: Reliability, organized
Credentials: Driver’s license (Class 1 or A); Air Brakes Endorsement
Transportation/Travel Information: Valid driver’s license, Willing to travel cross-border, Willing to travel for extended periods.
Security and Safety: Valid passport, Medical exam, Driving record check (abstract), Driver’s validity licence check; Drug test, Criminal record check, Basic security clearance Own Tools/ Equipment: Steel-toed safety boots, cellular phone, gloves
HOW TO APPLY
By email: gparker@wattstewart.com
By mail: 4134 3rd Street East Claresholm, AB T0L 0T0
Underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply: Persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada.
Tasks: Hauling general commodities using flatbed trailers throughout Canada and the United States; Hauling Lumber, pipe and wide loads; Plan or adjust routes based on changing conditions, using computer equipment, global positioning systems (GPS) equipment, or other navigation devices, to minimize fuel consumption and carbon emissions; Operate and drive straight or articulated trucks to transport goods and materials; Tarping and ensuring safety and security of cargo; Receive and relay information to central dispatch; Perform brake adjustments; Perform emergency roadside repairs; Record cargo information, hours of service, distance travelled and fuel consumption; Perform pre-trip, en route and post-trip inspection and oversee all aspects of vehicle; Oversee condition of vehicle and inspect tires, lights, brakes, cold storage and other equipment; Load and unload goods; Perform preventive maintenance; Mountain driving expertise; Professionalism in customer service; Communication Systems Experience: Operate GPS (Global Positioning System) and other navigation equipment, Citizens band (CB) radio; Documentation Knowledge: Trans-border documentation, Driver logbook, Bill of lading, Trip reports, Maintenance and repair reports, Accident or incident reports, Inspection report (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip).
Type of Trucking and Equipment: Tractor-trailer, Flatbed Weight Handling: Up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
Work Conditions and Physical Capabilities: Physically demanding, Attention to detail, Repetitive tasks, Handling heavy loads, Sitting for extended periods of time
WHAT YOU MUST INCLUDE IN YOUR APPLICATION
Job reference number 250501 OTR
Answer to the following screening questions:
• Are you willing to relocate for this position?
• Do you have experience working in this field?
• Do you have the required credentials listed in the job posting?
What might be required by the employer later in the hiring process:
