Every year, as the holiday season ramps up, so does the traffic. Between shoppers crowding local highways, families heading out of town, and unpredictable winter weather rolling in, December can turn even the most familiar routes into daily challenges for truck drivers.
Whether you're hauling across I-20, running regional deliveries through Atlanta, or making quick turnarounds between Alabama and Georgia, a little extra preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to stay safe, stay on schedule, and keep your rig in peak condition through the busiest stretch of the year.
Expect Congested Routes, Especially Near Metro Hubs
Interstates like I-75, I-85, and I-285 are notorious for backups during holiday travel weekends, and I-20 near Villa Rica and Douglasville tend to bottleneck with last-minute shoppers and commuters racing the clock.
Pro tip: Build in extra buffer time when routing through metro hubs, and when possible, opt for earlier morning deliveries before passenger traffic picks up.
If you’re already running loads westbound, consider planning a quick stop off I-20 Exit 26. Peach State Truck Centers’ new Villa Rica location makes it easy to grab parts, schedule service, get a bite to eat, or even park overnight before pressing on.
Winter Weather in the South
Georgia might not get heavy blizzards like the Midwest, but black ice, rain-to-freeze transitions, and sudden temperature drops can sneak up fast - especially along shaded sections of road or bridges.
Before heading into overnight hauls, be sure to:
- Inspect your tires for proper tread depth and pressure.
- Check coolant and anti-gel additives to prevent diesel fuel from thickening.
- Stock emergency supplies, including traction mats, gloves, blankets, and de-icer.
Winter road glare is also an issue enhanced by the low angle of the winter sun and the reflective surfaces of snow, ice, and wet roads, which can temporarily blind drivers. To reduce glare, keep your windshield clean, wear polarized sunglasses, slow down, and increase your following distance. Using your sun visor and ensuring your headlights are on can also help mitigate the danger.
If you’re missing any of the above, the Parts Department at Peach State keeps winterization essentials in stock - from additives to electrical components and lighting replacements.
Keep Your Rig in Top Shape Before Trouble Finds You
Unexpected downtime during the holidays doesn’t just slow you down - it pulls you out of rotation when freight demand is at its highest. Now’s the time to stay proactive, a preventative maintenance check can keep you rolling safely and efficiently through the busiest months of the year.
From battery load tests to air system inspections and HVAC checks, our technicians can make sure your semi is ready for long idles, temperature swings, and increased stop-and-go traffic. For more winter prep tips, see Birmingham Freightliner’s maintenance checklist.
Smart Driving Strategies for Holiday Hauls
Even the most seasoned drivers benefit from a refreshed playbook during peak travel season. Keep these habits top of mind:
- Increase Following Distance - Even More Than Usual
- Commercial cars and trucks tend to brake hard around shopping centers and exit ramps. Give yourself more room than you think you need.
- Plan Fuel Stops Ahead of Time
- Holiday traffic can turn a “quick stop” into a 45-minute delay. If you're familiar with Peach State’s network, make those locations your rest checkpoints - consistent, reliable, and driver-focused. You can also check out our guide to truck stops in Atlanta and Georgia for more places to refuel, rest, and recharge along your route.
- Avoid High-Risk Delivery Windows
- If possible, steer clear of Friday afternoons and Christmas Eve mornings - historically the most congested days for regional trucking in the Southeast.
Holiday Freight Doesn’t Slow Down, And Neither Should You
Holiday hauling doesn’t have to mean holiday headaches. With a little prep, a solid maintenance partner, and strategic routing, you can move confidently through even the busiest weeks of the year.
Whether you need winter parts, a quick service check, or a reliable place to rest, Peach State Truck Centers is here to keep you rolling with confidence.
Need to schedule maintenance to prepare for your freightliner for the winter months? Contact our Service Department today to get started.
