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Dana Guthrie

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About Dana Guthrie
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.

Posts by Dana Guthrie

Bendix highlights importance of truckers during NTDAW

By Dana Guthrie -

AVON, Ohio — Bendix is highlighting the the importance of the country’s truck drivers and celebrating their commitment along with their invaluable role in keeping America moving as part of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW). “We all share a deep reliance on truck drivers and everything they bring into our lives,” said Nicole Oreskovic, Bendix vice president of sales and marketing. “Most of what you see and use likely spent some time on a truck to get there. And every one of those trucks required a skilled, professional driver behind the wheel. It’s remarkable what they achieve, day after day, mile after mile, and everyone at Bendix offers sincere thanks, along with a tremendous sense of pride in supporting what they do.” According to ATA, truck drivers deliver roughly 70% of all freight moved in the United States each year – almost 11.5 billion tons. More than 80% of U.S. communities depend solely on trucks to receive their goods, and the country’s more than 3.5 million drivers travel approximately 300 billion miles each year. “America’s truck drivers have a lot to deal with on the road,” Oreskovic said. “Our goal is to help them handle the job safely with systems and solutions that contribute to safer trucks and help enhance the safety of everyone sharing the roads.”  Supporting Drivers’ Skills According to a company press release, Bendix recognizes that even as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) evolve, the biggest factor in commercial vehicle and highway safety remains the person at the wheel. “Driver assistance does not mean driver replacement,” said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of customer solutions and marketing – Controls group. “Our solutions deliver benefits like stability control, collision mitigation, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and more – but there’s nothing that can replace a skilled and alert driver. We strive to complement the driver’s talents simply because even the best driver can have a bad day.” Bendix also works to integrate improved driver comfort and convenience into its safety offerings. Air disc brakes deliver not just shorter stopping distance and virtually no brake fade, but smoother, straighter, and more stable stops, along with a car-like feel. Bendix subsidiary R.H. Sheppard’s steering assist system can assist drivers by gently guiding a drifting vehicle back toward its lane, helping to reduce driver fatigue and minimizing potential side-swipe scenarios, according to the release. The release noted the company’s steps to help make life on the road easier such as the Bendix air dryer technologies designed to help through more intelligent charging of the air system – for example, increasing the cut-in pressure so the compressor doesn’t run when the driver is climbing a hill or trying to pass. And in the cab, Bendix electronic parking brake technology can potentially help prevent rollaways and improve ergonomics with an electronic switch that eliminates the “sting” of push-pull air brake dash valves. The electronic switch offers another advantage over traditional valves in the form of built-in LED indicators that show the status of the park brake system at a glance. “Still, we can’t say enough that no commercial vehicle safety technology replaces a professional, attentive driver who exercises safe driving techniques and is supported by comprehensive training,” Thomas said. “Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times.” Staying Sharp According to the release, Bendix is dedicated to helping drivers get the most out of today’s advanced technologies. The company has developed resources that provide education on the use and maintenance of leading-edge safety systems, including on-site demonstrations and ride-and-drive training sessions. Videos exploring Bendix systems and explaining the in-cab experience are available on the company’s YouTube channel and in the “Truck Talk with Bendix” podcast’s “Driver Insight Series” collection of episodes. “Using safety systems correctly and to their maximum benefit means having a complete understanding of what they can do – and what they can’t do – to help drivers on the road,” Thomas said. “We are continually exploring new ways to help professional drivers become familiar and comfortable with operating these systems.” Bendix also offers a training portal that provides no-cost access to a wide array of technical courses; and the Knowledge Dock has archived resources like the Bendix Tech Tips series, podcasts, blogs, and white papers. “We’re also proud to support drivers through industry sponsorships that celebrate drivers and promote safety,” Oreskovic said. “Bendix has served as the sole sponsor of the annual ATA National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) Grand Champion Award for 13 years running – and that may be our industry’s highest-profile celebration of truck drivers’ skills and commitment to safety.” Bendix has also served as a longtime sponsor of the ATA Share the Road program, which has been teaching the public how to safely share the road with large commercial vehicles since 1986. Since its origins in the earliest days of the commercial vehicle industry, Bendix has been a company focused on supporting America’s professional truck drivers. Looking down the road ahead, the company continues its legacy of providing them with technology and education for safer vehicles and journeys yet to come.

RXO finalizes acquisition of Coyote Logistics

By Dana Guthrie -

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—  RXO has completed its acquisition of Coyote Logistics from UPS for a purchase price of $1.025 billion. According to a media release, the completion of the acquisition now places RXO as the third-largest provider of brokered transportation in North America. “We’re thrilled to welcome Coyote’s employees, customers and carriers to RXO,” said Drew Wilkerson, chief executive officer of RXO. “This acquisition enables us to provide customers with even more capacity. Our larger scale will provide carriers with access to more freight. As we work to integrate Coyote’s people and technology into our business, we remain focused on providing the best service, most comprehensive set of solutions, continuous innovation and deep relationships for our customers.” The acquisition enhances RXO’s market position, diversifies and expands its customer base and broadens its carrier network. For customers, RXO now offers increased network density and additional power lanes. For carriers, RXO offers access to more customers with opportunities to reduce deadhead miles, according to the release. Coyote Logistics was founded in 2006 and acquired by UPS in 2015. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as financial advisor to RXO, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as its legal advisor.

Miles of Gratitude: Ferrellgas honors its drivers during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

By Dana Guthrie -

LIBERTY, Mo. —  Ferrellgas Partners L.P.  is honoring its drivers during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. According to a company press release Ferrellgas’ theme for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is Miles of Gratitude. “Whether our drivers are hauling propane across the country as part of Ferrell North America (FNA), delivering it to someone’s home or business as part of Ferrellgas operations, or refilling a display of Blue Rhino grilling cylinders at a store, every mile counts,” the company said in the release. “Our propane gets to its final destination safely and efficiently because of them, and we’re proud to have them as a key part of our nationwide supply network. Ferrellgas said without its driver, the company would not be able to do what they do – deliver easy propane service to millions of families. “At the end of the day, we deliver propane. We couldn’t do that without our hardworking, safety conscious Drivers,” said Ray Galan, vice president of retail for Ferrellgas. To celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Ferrellgas leaders across the country are finding unique and meaningful ways to honor its Drivers. “We want to say thank you for the important role they play in our business,” said Tamria Zertuche, president and CEO. “Our Ferrellgas, Blue Rhino and FNA Drivers are truly at the heart of this company. Their dedication to our customers and their fellow employee-owners is unmatched in the propane industry and beyond. We are so grateful to have them as part of our team.”

Rockstars of the Road: Truckstop survey highlights unwavering dedication of drivers for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

By Dana Guthrie -

BOISE, Idaho — In recognition of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Truckstop surveyed more than 850 Truckstop carrier customers to gain insights into the lives of these dedicated drivers and their experiences on the road. “In celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, we honor the resilience and dedication of truck drivers, not just this week but every day,” said Kendra Tucker, chief executive officer of Truckstop. “This year’s survey underscores the strong focus drivers place on safety, while also revealing how music helps keep these rockstars of the road alert and energized behind the wheel.” According to a media release, nearly 60% of Truckstop carriers have driven one million miles or more, with over one third of respondents surpassing the remarkable milestone of two million miles. The survey results also underscore just how committed these truck drivers are to their profession. Among those who have reached the one-million-mile mark, more than 60% report having a current streak of driving a million miles without a single accident, highlighting their unwavering dedication to safety. Rockstars of the Road  These rockstars of the road not only navigate the highways with skill and precision, but also bring their own rhythm to the road with 72% of respondents listening to music while on the road, and close to one-third preferring country music to any genre. Favored country stars include George Strait and modern stars such as Chris Stapleton, Blake Shelton and Luke Combs. Over 20% of carriers turn up the volume for bands like AC/DC and Metallica, proving that the spirit of rock and roll is alive on the highways. Even Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar have found their way into the playlists of these road warriors, highlighting the diverse tastes that fuel their long hauls. Support for the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund  For the second year, Truckstop is proud to support the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund (SCF) with a donation tied to their National Truck Driver Appreciation Week campaign, which runs throughout the month of September, according to the release. The SCF’s mission is to aid over-the-road semi-truck drivers and their families when illness or injury has caused them to be out of work. The organization also has a proven track record with its free health and wellness programs to keep essential workers healthy and on the road. To further highlight this important work, Shannon Currier, SCF’s Director of Philanthropy, will be featured in a special edition of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast. In this episode, she joins Truckstop host Brent Hutto to discuss the impact of SCF’s initiatives and the critical importance of supporting truckers’ well-being. The episode is set to air on Tuesday, September 17th. Looking Ahead  The survey also showed that perspectives on the future of trucking are mixed. Just over a third (32%) of respondents hold a positive outlook, while 40% are more pessimistic. The remaining respondents are uncertain, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. For a detailed look at how the company is celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, visit here.

ATA celebrates drivers during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

By Dana Guthrie -

Washington – The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is celebrating the start of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), an annual celebration recognizing the nation’s more than 3.5 million professional truck drivers. “The conveniences of modern life have instilled a quiet confidence in every American that we can effortlessly get what we want, precisely when we want it,” said Chris Spear, American Trucking Associations President and CEO. “But that reality is only possible thanks to the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of America’s professional truck drivers. Our country’s reliance on truck drivers is absolute, and our appreciation for them must be as well.” According to an ATA press release, NTDAW, which is being held Sept. 15-21, is a nationwide opportunity to formally recognize professional truck drivers’ efforts. State trucking associations, industry suppliers and motor carriers of all sizes are set to host appreciation events for the men and women who safely deliver more than 70% of the country’s total freight tonnage. This year, ATA will be airing in-stadium ads at college football stadiums across the country, directly reaching an estimated 300,000 fans at 12 games in California, Illinois, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee and Texas. In addition, ATA is bringing Interstate One – a tractor-trailer equipped with a mobile classroom for public education – to Capitol Hill, where professional truck drivers from America’s Road Team will meet with Members of Congress and their staffs to discuss the essential role that trucking plays in our economy. Legislators and staff will have the chance to test their driving skills in friendly competition on Interstate One’s simulator. “From coast to coast, we are celebrating America’s professional truck drivers for their unwavering dedication and unparalleled commitment to keeping our roads safe and delivering our goods on time,” said Andrew Boyle, ATA Chairman and co-president of Boyle Transportation. “I invite everyone to join me in thanking these men and women for the essential jobs they do.” ATA encourages the trucking industry to engage their local communities in this week’s salute to truck drivers. Elected officials, business leaders, members of the media and students can all benefit from a better understanding of the important work that highly trained truck drivers do in safely delivering our nation’s most critical goods like food, medicine and clothing. Highway safety is dramatically improved when the motoring public accommodates truck drivers by providing plenty of space to maneuver, staying out of truck blind spots, and avoiding distractions, according to the release. The official NTDAW website has a collection of resources to enhance driver appreciation events, and the content provided by ATA enables passionate industry professionals to engage their communities in this important week. These resources improve the image of the professional truck driver and demonstrate public support for the challenging work that drivers do each day. This year’s NTDAW events are made possible by sponsors including: ACT 1, the Allied Committee for the Trucking Industry, Intact Insurance, Tenstreet and Geotab.

Platform Science acquires Trimble’s global transportation telematics

By Dana Guthrie -

WESTMINSTER, Colo. and SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Trimble and Platform Science have announced a partnership through a definitive agreement for Platform Science to acquire Trimble’s global transportation telematics business units. “We believe combining our global transportation telematics portfolio with Platform Science’s will further advance fleet mobility and provide our customers with a broader portfolio of solutions to solve industry problems,” said Rob Painter, president and CEO of Trimble. “Increased collaboration between the new Platform Science business and Trimble’s remaining transportation businesses will enhance our ability to provide positive outcomes for our global customers of commercial mapping, transportation management, freight procurement and visibility solutions. This deal will result in significant synergies along with tremendous opportunities for employees to continue to grow in a more-competitive business.” According to a joint press release, as part of the agreement, Trimble will become a shareholder in Platform Science’s expanded business. The proposed transaction aims to enhance driver experience, fleet safety, efficiency and compliance by combining two cutting-edge in-cab commercial vehicle ecosystems, which will give customers access to more applications and offerings. Upon closing of the proposed transaction, Trimble’s global transportation telematics customers will continue to receive benefits of Trimble solutions, with the added flexibility of the Virtual Vehicle platform from Platform Science. Virtual Vehicle-enabled fleets will receive access to the Virtual Vehicle Marketplace, offering hundreds of new and expanded applications, software and solution providers focused on innovating and improving drivers’ quality of life and fleet performance. Platform Science customers will enjoy the added choice of Trimble’s remaining portfolio of transportation solutions which will be available on the Virtual Vehicle platform, according to the release. “This partnership marks the inflection point for a true platform approach to transportation technology. Now, powered by OEM-native software services, we will deliver unprecedented choice,” said Jack Kennedy, co-founder and CEO of Platform Science. “We are confident choice will expand exponentially as existing providers and new developers now see the opportunity to reach vehicles everywhere with high quality OEM data delivered in a consistent, reliable way. This finally empowers developers to easily address the endemic inefficiencies that have plagued transportation across vehicles globally.”  Transaction Details Upon the closing of the proposed transaction, Trimble will have a 32.5 percent stake in the newly expanded global Platform Science business and will receive a Platform Science board seat. Trimble joins C.R. England, Cummins, Daimler Truck, PACCAR, Prologis, RyderVentures, and Schneider as a key strategic investor in Platform Science along with financial investors 8VC, Activant Capital, BDT & MSD Partners, Softbank, and NewRoad Capital Partners. Trimble’s global telematics business units are reported within Trimble’s Transportation & Logistics reporting segment. On a trailing twelve-month basis, the businesses generated approximately $300 million of revenue and approximately $30 million of operating profit. Annualized recurring revenue (ARR) for the businesses was approximately $200 million in the second quarter of 2024. The divestiture is expected to be accretive to Trimble’s organic revenue growth rate, organic ARR growth rate, gross margin and operating profit margin. Trimble’s other core transportation business units — Enterprise, Maps, Vusion and Transporeon — are not included in the proposed transaction and will remain part of Trimble’s Transportation & Logistics segment, with a continued focus on priority growth areas following completion of the proposed transaction. Trimble’s ownership in Platform Science is expected to be accounted for under the cost method of accounting. The proposed transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals and any delayed closings that may be required in certain foreign jurisdictions.

CSX train crashes into tractor-trailer hauling M109 Howitzer

By Dana Guthrie -

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. — Authorities in South Carolina are investigating a crash between a train and a tractor-trailer that was hauling a military vehicle on Thursday. The Goose Creek Police Department said officers were called that afternoon about a truck being struck by a CSX train on Liberty Hall Road. “We are currently working a train versus an 18 wheeler accident at Liberty Hall and 52,” the department said in a social media post. “Fortunately, there are no injuries, however due to the extensive damage, the intersections at both Liberty Hall and at Redbank Road are closed and will be for several hours.” The freight train, operated by CSX, a Florida-based locomotive supplies company, struck the trailer in Goose Creek, a city about 20 miles north of Charleston, around 12:40 p.m. Thursday, CSX said on Friday. The trailer was transporting a U.S. Army M109 Howitzer, according to Reuters. Witnesses said the tractor-trailer got stuck on the railroad tracks and was unable to get out of the way of the oncoming train. No injuries were reported, and passenger service was not impacted, CSX said. Witnesses also described the crash as being “like a bomb going off,” Reuters reported. A spokesperson for CSX trains said the company appreciates the quick response of police and fire crews. Authorities said the crash remains under investigation with no injuries reported.

Embracing the future: Tom’s Truck Center opens country’s first onsite hydrogen refueling station

By Dana Guthrie -

LOS ANGELES, Calif.—Tom’s Truck Center,  part of the Nikola sales and service dealer network has opened the first hydrogen refueling station onsite at a commercial truck dealership in the United States. The Nikola HYLA modular hydrogen refueling station for the heavy-duty transportation sector is located onsite at Tom’s Truck Center’s Santa Fe Springs location in Los Angeles County, a strategic location along Highway 5, one of the busiest highways in the nation. “California is laying the foundation for a hydrogen-powered future, and we are proud to help drive this transition,” said KC Heidler, Tom’s Truck Center president and CEO. “This station allows us to support our customers who choose hydrogen units by offering the necessary infrastructure. By partnering with HYLA and making hydrogen refueling accessible, we’re significantly reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and setting new standards in clean transportation.” According to a company press release, the high-pressure (700-bar) dispensing equipment allows for reliable turnaround times, refueling up to 30 trucks daily. The station will operate Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. with dedicated HYLA Ambassadors/Operations Technicians ensuring efficient service. Conveniently located along the highway, this setup minimizes downtime for heavy-duty trucks needing refueling, such as the Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle. Notable guests in attendance at a special unveiling event included State Senator Josh Newman, State Senator Bob Archuleta, Santa Fe Springs City Manager Rene Bobadilla, GO-Biz Deputy Director of ZEV Market Development Gia Brazil Vacin, California Air Resources Board (CARB) Representative Isaac Lino, Tom’s Truck Center President KC Heidler, and Nikola Corporation President and CEO Stephen Girsky. “Hydrogen and fuel technology offer a promising pathway toward replacing diesel with green, renewable sources of energy at scale and affordability,” Newman said. “Today’s opening of the HYLA station at Tom’s Truck Center in Santa Fe Springs in Los Angeles County is an important milestone for zero-emission heavy goods movement in California and represents a critical next step as California makes progress on its ambitious goals to decarbonize our transportation systems in the service of cleaner air and a healthy sustainable environment for all.” Other current HYLA hydrogen refueling locations in Calif. include Long Beach and Ontario. It is anticipated that 14 hydrogen refueling solutions will be operational by the end of 2024. “Tom’s also offers new and used sales, rental and leasing option, and service, for EV and hydrogen trucks of all sizes,” the company said in the release. “Tom’s dedicated zero-emission transportation experts help customers navigate government incentive programs, provide charging options, educate on available products, and more. This new HYLA modular refueling station is only the beginning. The long-term plan incorporates a Tom’s Truck Center permanent hydrogen refueling station, which is projected to be completed by the end of 2026.”

Great Dane celebrates Truck Driver Appreciation Week with sweepstakes

By Dana Guthrie -

CHICAGO, Ill. — Great Dane is celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from September 15-21, with a weeklong sweepstakes to honor the backbone of the commercial transportation industry. “At Great Dane, we understand that driver comfort, safety and efficiency are vital to the efficient transportation of goods,” the company said in a media release. “Our trailers are designed with high quality features to address the unique needs of drivers, ensuring they can perform with optimal performance and safety.” According to the release, the annual event underscores the essential role of commercial drivers and their tireless dedication to keeping the nation’s supply chain moving seamlessly. Celebrating Our Unsung Heroes Great Dane will express the company’s heartfelt appreciation to drivers of the transportation industry with an entire week of prizes. Tag the driver in your life so they can enter our daily prize drawings from September 16–20.  Enter the contest by clicking here. Designed with Drivers in Mind The release also noted several innovative features that highlight’s the company’s dedication to driver well-being:  SLIPNOT: Great Dane’s anti-slip flooring technology is designed to enhanced safety and reduce the risk of slips and falls during loading and unloading.  Interior LED Strip Lighting and Exterior Work Lights: Great Dane trailers feature side work lights for safer pre-trip inspections and loading in low light, plus 74% brighter interior LED strip lighting to make finding cargo easier.  Join Us in Celebrating “We encourage everyone to take a moment this week to express gratitude to the drivers who ensure that our shelves are stocked, our deliveries are made, and our lives keep running smoothly,” the company said. “Their tireless dedication drives what we do, and during Driver Appreciation Week, we hope to help shine a spotlight on their invaluable contributions.”

JJ Keller earns 2024 Great Place To Work certification

By Dana Guthrie -

NEENAH, Wis. — J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has been certified by Great Place To Work for the 8th year. “Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the vice president of global recognition at Great Place To Work. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that J. J. Keller stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its associates.” According to a company press release, the prestigious award is based entirely on what current associates say about their experience working at J. J. Keller. This year, 85% of the company’s associates said it’s a Great Place To Work – 28 points higher than the average U.S. company. Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation. “We are so honored to once again be Great Place To Work-Certified because being a great workplace for our associates is one of our strategic priorities,” said Rustin Keller, president and CEO of J. J. Keller. “The expertise and knowledge we offer to our customers is that of our team of dedicated associates at J. J. Keller. We aim to hire and keep highly talented minds in safety and regulatory compliance. We celebrate and thank them for all they do and for this incredible recognition.” The release also noted that associates ranked J. J. Keller most highly for being a physically safe place to work; being treated fairly regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender; how the company contributes to the community; the facilities’ work environment; and being able to take time off when they feel it’s necessary. According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

Driver finds 10-foot python during pre-trip check

By Dana Guthrie -

QUEENSLAND, Australia — A Sunshine Coast driver got a huge shock during pre-start checks in Australia. Rick Denning, a driver for Sommers Sawdust Supplies in the Glass Mountains was completing his pre-trip check on the Kenworth T409 he drives – only to find a 10-foot python wrapped around the turntable.  “Rick thought it was a little bit out there — it’s probably not the sort of thing you want to be encountering at that time of the morning,” his employer, Mark Sommers, told Australian trucking news outlet Big Rigs. “He took it for a run to get it out of the depot and said he would try to get it off the truck at the next stop.” The python was perfectly happy where it was and both Denning and Sommers had to call in professional reinforcement from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers. Professional snake catcher Heather McMurray was quickly on the scene, unfazed as she did what she does best.   McMurray said the python, which measured approximately 3.2 metres, was quite difficult to remove from the rig.   “I had to do the head grab, and we don’t really like grabbing python’s heads because we’re a predator, and they just assume that we’re going to hurt them,” McMurray said. “So they start moving in strange ways and trying to get us. But in some situations like that, there is no choice. It’s the easiest and safest option just to grab their head, but we do it very gently and make sure not to strangle or hurt the snake.”   McMurray added that snakes are drawn to trucks because they provide a warm place for them to rest while they digest their food.   “It’s pretty warm up here at the moment anyway, but after they eat, they do need that heat to digest their food items,” McMurray said. “Under the truck would have been just perfect for him that day.”  According to McMurray, breeding season for snakes started early this year, and drivers and operators should be on the lookout.   “I think we’ve got probably another month like this, and then we’ll start seeing some eggs and babies around the place,” McMurray said. “It is very common to see snakes around trucking yards and warehouses. We get several snakes in trucks every year, often in the engine bay. I’ve actually had them inside the trucks a few times too.”   Pythons are not venomous, but can still be dangerous.   “A bite from a Python that size would put you in hospital,” McMurray said. “They have approximately 90 teeth in their mouth, and they all slope backwards. Their teeth could easily go through an artery.”  McMurray said that if you spot a snake in or around your truck, you should call a professional to have it removed.   “Call the nearest snake catcher for a couple of reasons,” she said. “It’s actually illegal to relocate wildlife without a permit, and for the safety of the snake and yourself, it’s much better just to give us a call. We can do it a lot quicker and a lot easier.”  McMurray said that one of the most important things to remember is that people might think they dealing with a non-venomous snake, but they could be wrong.   “We’ve had people calling us saying they’ve got a tree snake in the truck, and it’s turned out to be something a little more venomous,” McMurray said. “Especially if you don’t get a good look at it, it can be hard to tell.”

UPS acquires cold-chain logistics provider Frigo-Trans

By Dana Guthrie -

ATLANTA, Ga. — UPS has announced its agreement to acquire Frigo-Trans, and its sister company BPL, (together “Frigo-Trans”) industry-leading, complex healthcare logistics providers based in Germany. “The fast-paced innovation in the pharmaceutical industry is creating the need to have more integrated cold and frozen supply chains,” said Kate Gutmann, UPS executive vice president and president of international, healthcare and supply chain solutions. “Frigo-Trans will help deepen our portfolio of solutions for our customers and accelerate our journey to become the number one complex healthcare logistics provider in the world addressing their needs.” According to a company press release, once completed, the acquisition will enhance UPS’s end-to-end capabilities throughout Europe for UPS Healthcare customers who increasingly require temperature-sensitive and time-critical logistics. Frigo-Trans’ network includes temperature-controlled warehousing that covers six temperature zones from cryopreservation (-196°C) to ambient (+15° to +25°C); a Pan-European cold chain transportation solution and temperature-controlled and time-critical freight forwarding capabilities. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary regulatory reviews and approvals. The value and terms of the transaction are not being disclosed at this time.

RNG Coalition surpasses 400 operational facilities in North America

By Dana Guthrie -

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition) has announced a major milestone in the growth of the renewable natural gas industry, with 433 facilities now operational across North America. “This is a significant milestone in the advancement of our mission and Sustainable Methane Abatement & Recycling Timeline (SMART),” said Johannes Escudero RNG Coalition founder and CEO. “We are proud of what our organization and industry have accomplished together, but we are focused on the next benchmark, and on even broader energy sector adoption of RNG as a critical component in our society’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.” According to a company press release, the achievement represents a significant leap from just a year ago, when the North American RNG industry celebrated the establishment of 300 facilities, marking a remarkable 44% growth within just one year. While technological advancements and increasing demand for low-carbon energy solutions have factored into this recent surge, expanding policy support remains front-and-center for our industry as we chase our goals of 500 facilities by 2025, 1,000 by 2030 and 5,000 by 2040. One notable example of encouraging policy growth is New Mexico’s recently launched Clean Fuel Standard (CFS) program, which aims to reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels. The CFS program follows similar programs implemented successfully in California, Oregon and Washington, providing a framework for RNG projects to thrive by creating market incentives for low-carbon fuels that displace dirty diesel and other fossil fuels, according to the release. The release also noted that Dairy farm-to-RNG projects represent another key driver of recent facility growth. Agricultural waste now represents 24% of all feedstocks deployed toward RNG production, marking a new all-time high and an increase from 17% of all feedstocks just a year ago. California’s strides toward reducing methane emissions, including through its pioneering Low Carbon Fuel Standard program, have helped incentivize methane capture at farms across the state, with over 100 state agricultural sites now attached to operational RNG infrastructure. “As the RNG Coalition celebrates this milestone, the organization remains committed to supporting the continued growth and development of the industry,” the company said in the release. “In addition to currently operational facilities, there are 436 facilities in various stages of planning or construction, creating a robust pipeline of forthcoming projects. With ongoing collaboration between the public and private sectors, and between legislative and regulatory bodies, the Coalition envisions an even more significant role for RNG and other renewable gases as we work toward cleaner air and energy for current and future generations.”

Powering the future: Daimler Truck, Greenlane break ground on truck charging site

By Dana Guthrie -

LEINFELDEN-ECHTERDINGEN, Germany, and COLTONolton, Calif. — Greenlane, a joint venture between Daimler Truck North America LLC, NextEra Energy Resources LLC and BlackRock (through a fund managed by its Climate Infrastructure business), hosted a groundbreaking event at Greenlane’s flagship charging site in Colton, California, on Sept. 9. The event marks the beginning of the construction of the company’s first commercial EV charging corridor, which will run from the Los Angeles to Las Vegas metropolitan areas, primarily along Interstate 15.  According to a company media release, key stakeholders, community leaders, and joint venture partners, including Daimler Truck North America leaders, John O’Leary, president and CEO of Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), and Rakesh Aneja, head of eMobility at DTNA, took part in a groundbreaking ceremony highlighting the importance of this project, its positive regional impact, and the commercial trucking industry in the U.S. as a whole. “The establishment of this flagship charging site in Colton is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision,” O’Leary said. “We are confident that this project will help to accelerate widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles and drive the future of sustainable transportation by addressing the urgent need for a publicly available, nationwide electric charging infrastructure.” The release also noted that the groundbreaking was held on the same day that Greenlane announced that they secured a $15 million grant from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) under the Carl Moyer Zero-Emission Infrastructure Program. The grant will allow Greenlane to accelerate the development of the Colton site for its commercial EV charging corridor. South Coast AQMD’s grant funds, specifically allocated for the Colton site, will be utilized for site design and engineering and charging infrastructure build-out, expediting development timelines to facilitate the opening of the Colton site by the end of 2024. “The Colton charging site represents a major step forward in reducing emissions along several transportation corridors, while also benefiting the region economically in the long term,” said Patrick Macdonald-King, Greenlane CEO. “We are grateful to all of our partners and local leaders in the community for making this vision become reality.” According to the release, Greenlane, alongside its JV partners, is developing a nationwide network of commercial charging infrastructure locations across the nation. Starting with electrifying heavy, medium, and light-duty vehicles, charging sites will also serve battery-electric passenger car and light-duty fleet customers. Greenlane also plans to provide hydrogen refueling for commercial vehicles in the near future. To learn more about its first commercial charging corridor along I-15, click here.

OOIDA partners with TAT for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

By Dana Guthrie -

GRAIN VALLEY, Mo – The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is joining forces with TAT (Truckers Against Trafficking) in celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) Sept. 15-21. “For more than 50 years, OOIDA has been one of the loudest voices for all the hard-working men and women that keep America moving,” said Norita Taylor, director of public relations for OOIDA. “We look forward to continuing to work on their behalf in the future and thank them for all they do.” According to a press release, TAT is teaming up with OOIDA and Blue Tiger USA for a giveaway on Facebook during NTDAW. In an effort to honor owner-operators TAT and OOIDA will give away five over-the-ear, hands-free Storm Headsets, donated by Blue Tiger. The giveaway will be announced on TAT’s and OOIDA’s Facebook pages on Monday, Sept. 16, during NTDAW. Entries will be accepted through Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 11:59 p.m. PST. Winners will be announced Friday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. CST. OOIDA will also make an appearance at Truck World with additional celebrations for the week. “If you’re in Hubbard, Ohio, or planning a stop at Truck World between Sept. 16-18, keep an eye out for the spirit tour truck,” OOIDA said in a social media post. “While there, tour truck driver Marty Ellis or our fuel card specialist, Trevor Williams, can help you new or renew your OOIDA membership. This counts as ONE entry into the giveaway. If you’re a lifetime member, you can still enter by bringing your membership card or knowing your member number so we can look you up in our system.”

Averitt expands its horizons with the opening of a new facility in Tyler

By Dana Guthrie -

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Averitt has announced the opening of a new service center in Tyler, Texas, strategically located near Interstate 20. “Our new Tyler facility is a major step forward in our ability to serve customers across East Texas and beyond,” said Bryan Walters, service center director for the Tyler location. “With improved infrastructure and increased capacity, we’re positioned to meet the growing needs of our customers, delivering the high-quality service they expect from Averitt.”  According to a company media release, the facility, covering 20,500 square feet with 33 dock doors, significantly increases Averitt’s capacity, enabling faster and more efficient freight handling for customers in one of Texas’ fastest-growing markets.  The new center is designed to streamline operations with expanded dock space, two on-site fuel islands, and secure parking. “These upgrades enable Averitt to provide more reliable, timely service to customers, while also enhancing the work environment for associates through modern amenities such as break areas and new restrooms and showers,” the company said. “This facility also marks the debut of Averitt’s newly redesigned signage, featuring a streamlined Averitt logo and updated color scheme that matches Averitt’s fleet of equipment, associates’ uniforms, and reflects the modern evolution of its brand.”

Data for 2023 reveals Texas as most dangerous state for truck crashes

By Dana Guthrie -

New research by T. Madden & Associates has revealed that Texas is the most dangerous state for truck accidents. The study, which analyzed data from The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Texas Department of Transportation for 2023 found the Lone Star State had 20,510 fatal and non-fatal truck crashes — the highest of all states. The study shows the Top 5 most dangerous states for truck accidents as: Texas, with 20,510 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes California, with 13,086 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes Florida, with 10,391 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes Georgia, with 8,826 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes Pennsylvania, with 7,524 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes “Freight trucks and their drivers are a crucial aspect of Texas’s great economy,” said Terance Madden of T. Madden & Associates. “For that reason, the health and safety of the state’s fleets and drivers should be an absolute priority, which is why the figures in our study are so concerning.” Madden also noted that with 20,510 incidents, Texas leads in large truck accidents, in fact, according to the Department of Transportation, at least one person has died on a Texas road since November 2000. “With that in mind, all drivers should take adequate precautions when getting out on the road, especially drivers of commercial vehicles,” Madden said. “In the unfortunate event of an incident, we strongly recommend having a strong insurance policy in place in the case of vehicle damage, and possibly obtaining legal advice in the case of injury or worse.” According to 2023 data from the Texas Department of Transportation, the five cities with the highest number of crashes in the state were: Houston: 67,644 total crashes (274 fatal, 67,370 non-fatal) San Antonio: 40,077 total crashes (160 fatal, 39,917 non-fatal) Dallas: 31,678 total crashes (196 fatal, 31,482 non-fatal) Fort Worth: 13,445 total crashes (111 fatal, 13,334 non-fatal) Austin: 12,138 total crashes (88 fatal, 12,050 non-fatal)

Sheetz plans 2 diesel fuel sites along I-85 in North Carolina, I-81 Virgina

By Dana Guthrie -

Altoona, Pa. — Sheetz, a Mid-Atlantic restaurant and convenience chain, will officially open two new stores featuring truck diesel lanes this month. According to a company press release, each store — one in North Carolina and one in Virginia — will offer high-flow diesel fuel and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) for commercial trucks as well as a truck scale and free parking spaces available for overnight parking to truckers. The new store locations scheduled to open in September include: Salisbury, North Carolina: Located at 1215 Peeler Road, this new store will feature five truck driver lanes and can be easily accessed by truck drivers on I-85 from exit 71. Middletown, Virginia: Located at 121 Confidence Lane, this new store will feature nine truck driver lanes and can be easily accessed by truck drivers on I-81 via exit 302. Each new store opening will feature grand opening festivities, including free self-serve coffee and soda throughout the day, as well as multiple prizes, including a grand prize giveaway of free Sheetz for a Year (a $2,500 Sheetz gift card). Customers attending the grand opening are encouraged to donate a non-perishable food item to the nonprofit. Those who donate will receive a Sheetz branded thermal bag, limit one per customer.” Sheetz currently operates 750+ store locations across Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio and Maryland, with all locations open 24/7, 365 days a year. Customers can check if other Sheetz locations sell high flow diesel fuel and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) through the Sheetz mobile app or website, by filtering “truck diesel” and/or “Bulk DEF.”

South Dakota rep introduces bill to stop use of China’s LiDAR technology by DOT

By Dana Guthrie -

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) has introduced legislation to prohibit use of the Chinese-affiliated LiDAR technology to be used by the Department of Transportation (DOT). “America should not rely on this technology from our adversaries,” Johnson said. “China’s access to highly detailed maps of our country’s infrastructure, from ports to highways to railroads, is a big threat to our national security. We must keep our sensitive data out of the hands of those who seek to undermine our nation.” According to a press release from Johnson’s office, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a remote sensing technology that captures detailed three-dimensional maps of surrounding environments with millimeter-level accuracy. “LiDAR is a foundational technology of the future, critical to the development of everything from automobiles to our roads and bridges,” said United States House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party Chairman John Moolenaar. “By prohibiting the Department of Transportation from using CCP-affiliated LiDAR technology, Congress will get ahead of yet another supply chain dependency on the CCP and reduce the Party’s leverage over our industries and our country. I am thankful for Rep. Johnson’s leadership on this critical issue.” Johnson introduced this bill alongside Moolenaar, Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik and Rep. John Garamendi. “The U.S. cannot rely on Communist China for emerging critical technologies such as LiDAR,” said Stefanik. “Unsecure LiDAR produced by our greatest strategic adversary jeopardizes our national security and undermines the competitiveness of American companies. I am proud to join Congressman Dusty Johnson and Chairman John Moolenaar in introducing legislation to root out Communist Chinese-manufactured LiDAR from the United States.” Legislation: The Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act would prohibit the DOT from utilizing LiDAR technology from foreign adversaries, effective June 30, 2026. Specifically, the DOT is prohibited from – Procuring LiDAR from a covered company. Contracting with entities using LiDAR from a covered company. Providing loans or grants to entities using LiDAR from a covered company. Covered LiDAR companies include – Any entity on the Consolidated Screening List. Any entity on the 1260H list. Any entity that is domiciled or subject to unmitigated foreign ownership by the People’s Republic of China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia. According to the release, LiDAR is a remote sensing technology that captures detailed three-dimensional maps of surrounding environments with millimeter-level accuracy. LiDAR is widely utilized in the transportation space within autonomous vehicles, drone inspection of critical infrastructure, traffic control systems, railroad grade crossings, airports and more. “U.S. firms initially led in LiDAR production, but the People’s Republic of China (PRC) firms are gaining market share at an alarming rate, some while using questionable practices related to U.S. intellectual property,” the release said. “While competition in the market is not inherently bad, PRC companies are subject to the country’s National Security Law which states all companies must provide any available data collected by their products and systems to the Chinese Communist Party, when required.” Read full bill text here.

Navigate the future of freight with Truckstop’s Risk Assessment System

By Dana Guthrie -

BOISE, Idaho — Truckstop has unveiled its new Risk Assessment System which the company’s latest advanced technology solution designed to further protect its customers and industry participants. “Fraud in the freight industry evolves daily at a breakneck pace,” said Julia Laurin, chief product officer, Truckstop. “We are launching the Risk Assessment System to give our customers and network participants another practical tool that breaks the tension of protecting their business and growing efficiently. The solution leverages real-time data from Truckstop’s ecosystem to provide a proprietary view of fraud and business risks, using innovative technology to detect emerging fraud signals.” According to a company media release, The Risk Assessment System seamlessly integrates with Truckstop’s freight network platform and products, such as Truckstop’s RMISsolution, leveraging billions of carrier data points to identify key risks of freight businesses and block unqualified attempts to access Truckstop’s trusted network and products. Another key fraud prevention tool that will be paired with Truckstop’s Risk Assessment System is ID Verification. ID Verification compares an individual’s government-issued ID with a real-time photograph, helping ensure a user is who they say they are. This comprehensive approach allows Truckstop to offer insights while ensuring a seamless user experience. Truckstop’s Risk Assessment System will first be made available to Truckstop’s RMIS customers through an early access program in Q4.