Dana Guthrie, Author at TheTrucker.com

NATSO, Werner kick off CEO ride-along

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

NATSO, an organization that represents truck stops and travel plazas, and Werner Enterprises Inc. have kicked off a CEO ride-along as part of a unique safety collaboration between the travel center industry and its professional truck driving customers. NATSO President and CEO Lisa Mullings is joining Werner professional truck driver Jennifer Evans on a week-long, 1,200-mile trip beginning in Joliet, Illinois. They will stop along the way at truck stops and travel centers so Mullings can experience life on the road for professional truck drivers. Mullings will document her experience, delivering insights to the travel center executives, owners and operators who continuously strive to improve service to their customers. “Truck stops and travel centers serve as the home away from home for more than 3 million professional truck drivers,” Mullings said. “By experiencing life on the road through the eyes of a professional truck driver, I have an incredible opportunity to help our industry meet the unique needs of the truck driving customer. Providing drivers with safe and secure places to stop and rest is the No. 1 priority of our industry. By ensuring a positive experience for truck drivers, we can help to ensure that commercial drivers remain in this critical profession while spurring others to consider a career as a professional driver.” Mullings, who has served as NATSO President and CEO for 25 years, regularly visits truck stop and travel center locations while traveling. In 2014, Mullings sold her family home and traveled 40,000 miles in a 30-foot Airstream trailer with her family, meeting hundreds of NATSO members in 49 states during a 12-month industry tour. “We are excited to collaborate with NATSO, as this initiative will provide invaluable real-world feedback from professional drivers to enhance the safety and overall experience at truck stops nationwide,” said Werner’s Vice President of Safety and Compliance, Jaime Hamm. “Jennifer Evans’ unique insights as a female professional driver will add exceptional value and a unique perspective on the road.” Evans is a highly accomplished and seasoned professional driver, who has been on the road with Werner since 2003. Over the years, she has earned numerous safety awards and achieved an impressive 1.3 million accident-free miles. Jennifer has also contributed significantly as a Driver Ambassador and was a proud member of Werner’s 2019 Road Team. Each year, she volunteers her time at Touch-a-Truck events and actively participates in Nebraska’s annual Special Olympics truck convoy.

Penske named to 2024 Food Logistics top 3PL and Cold Storage Providers List

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

READING, Penn. — Penske Logistics has been named as a recipient of the Food Logistics 2024 Top Third-Party Logistics (3PL) & Cold Storage Providers Award. “3PLs and cold storage providers remain a key puzzle piece to building and nurturing partnerships, cultivating resilience and helping companies in the cold food space overcome supply chain disruptions,” said editor-in-chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive Marina Mayer. According to the publication, many of this year’s winners offer a variety of 3PL services, with the top being LTL/TL (80% of winners), refrigerated trucking (79%), and truckload brokerage (77%), while many of the top cold storage services offered are cold storage (78%), cross docking (73%), warehousing/distribution management (72%) and, tied at 70%, fulfillment and EDI capabilities. “It is an honor for our work in the food and beverage space to be recognized by Food Logistics magazine,” said Penske Logistics President Jeff Jackson. “Our company takes pride in our dedicated transportation and distribution center management services in the food and beverage space.”

Drivewyze partners with Canadian provinces to implement PreClear Weigh Station bypass

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

PLANO, Texas — Drivewyze has announced a new partnership with the Manitoba Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to offer PreClear weigh station bypass service throughout the province. “We’re partnering with Canadian provinces to expand bypass programs across Canada with Manitoba representing a key geography for the trucking community,” said Brian Mofford, Drivewyze’s vice president of government experience. “As an added value, we’ve bundled the service for those who have subscriptions for bypass in Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador. We hope to bring more provinces on board soon to fulfill our goal of having complete coverage in Canada.” The service expands the bypass network in Canada to important freight corridors in Manitoba. Drivewyze also offers bypass services for the Province of Alberta and across the U.S. Drivewyze PreClear is currently available in 48 states and provinces at more than 900 locations. The Manitoba service will be operated by the Transportation Operations Division Motor Carrier Enforcement. It allows subscribed trucks with Canadian or U.S. plates to have bypass opportunities at eight locations throughout the province, including: West Hawk Lake Hwy-1 EB West Hawk Lake Hwy-1 WB Emerson Hwy-75 NB Emerson Hwy-75 SB Carroll Hwy-2 EB Carroll Hwy-2 WB Headingley Hwy-1 EB Headingley Hwy-1 WB According to Mofford, with four bypass locations along the Trans-Canada Highway — which covers 490 kilometers through Manitoba — truck drivers have more road time and less downtime. “Freight efficiency is a key measure for all trucking companies and weigh station bypass can shave off valuable minutes or even hours in some cases,” Mofford said. “This is just west of Winnipeg and it’s by far the busiest of the four scale locations. The Emerson Highway 75 location is important too, as it’s the port of entry from the U.S. heading north in Manitoba, with southbound travel going into North Dakota and Minnesota.” The bypass sites represent the busiest areas for truck traffic, especially the Headingley Highway 1 east and westbound. “We operate a large fleet based in Manitoba and applaud the province for its leadership in adopting a weigh station bypass program,” said Garth Pitzel, vice president of safety and driver development for Bison Transport. “We’ve been utilizing Drivewyze PreClear in Canada and the United States, and it’s something our management and drivers appreciate as it saves us time and money, while rewarding our drivers for the work they do in keeping our fleet safe. We’re excited about bypass opportunities now being available in Manitoba.” According to Aaron Dolyniuk, executive director of the Manitoba Trucking Association, scale bypass programs that allow carriers with solid safety records to operate more efficiently are a win for them and for industry. “These programs allow motor carrier enforcement to focus their efforts where they need to be — on trucking companies with poor safety records, “ Dolyniuk said. ”Road safety is the highest priority for members of the Manitoba Trucking Association, and rewarding safe companies for their efforts makes good sense.”

Analysts: For-hire trucking market shows signs of slow recovery

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ind. – The latest release of ACT Research’s For-Hire Trucking Index continues to reflect a slowly recovering for-hire trucking market. The Volume Index increased 12.7 points in May to 54.4, seasonally adjusted (SA), from 41.7 in April. “Whether May’s volume increase will hold is an open question, but this matches the best result in 28 months,” said Carter Vieth, research analyst at ACT Research. “Roadcheck may have contributed to more loads going to medium and large fleets, of which our respondent base is largely comprised. Positively, freight activity is also increasing at ports, border crossings, and in intermodal volumes.” Overall, truckload volume data remain mixed, with the Cass Freight Index and DAT spot loads still at cycle lows. The Capacity Index increased by 1.4 points month over month to 45.6 in May but was still the eighth-lowest reading in the survey’s nearly 15-year history. “The capacity reading continues to reflect challenging for-hire conditions, with low rates and higher costs driving fleet contraction,” said Vieth. “For-hire capacity has contracted for the past eleven months and will likely continue as most large fleets have lowered or delayed capacity additions. As demand gradually recovers, for-hire contraction should start to moderate.” The Supply-Demand Balance rose in May to 58.7 (SA), up from 47.5 in April, as volumes increased more than capacity. “It is worth reiterating the question mark of whether this month’s volume gains are sticky. Private fleet expansion, which is not captured in this indicator, is resulting in a longer lead time to higher market rates than in past cycles,” Vieth said. “So, overall equipment purchasing trends will remain key to watch. Continuing freight demand growth should provide ongoing support to the market balance.”

Banyan Technology promotes Wright to CMO

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Banyan Technology has announced the promotion of Deanna Wright to chief marketing officer (CMO). “Deanna’s exceptional leadership in marketing has been instrumental in elevating Banyan’s brand presence and driving our growth,” said Banyan CEO Brian Smith. “Her strategic vision, dedication and ability to inspire her teams make her the perfect choice to take on this expanded role. I’m confident that under her guidance, the marketing, inside sales and business development teams will thrive, further propelling Banyan’s success.” Wright, who previously served as director of marketing for Banyan, will continue to lead the freight execution software provider’s overall brand and marketing presence with a focus on innovative strategies and impactful campaigns that strengthen the brand’s identity, enhance its market position and drive engagement across various channels. “I’m truly honored and excited to take on this expanded role at Banyan,” Wright said. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see our marketing efforts flourish, and I look forward to bringing that same energy and strategic vision to the inside sales and business development teams. Together, we’ll continue to innovate and drive Banyan’s growth, ensuring we deliver exceptional value to our customers and partners.” Wright is responsible for developing strategic plans to drive sales growth, overseeing the training and development of sales personnel and identifying new market opportunities. She ensures that both teams align with the company’s overall goals, working closely with cross-functional departments to optimize performance. Wright has spent most of her career in marketing leadership positions at the senior level, building talent and resources to drive company revenue and growth. She holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from Cleveland State University. She is a member of the senior leadership team at Banyan Technology and is dedicated to the continued successful development, deployment and management of LIVE Connect, the logistics industry’s most comprehensive technology solution.

ATHS National Convention and Truck Show rolls in and out of York, Penn.

By Dana Guthrie - June 25, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The American Truck Historical Society (ATHS) hosted its annual National Convention and Truck Show in York, Pennsylvania, June 6-8. The event showcased an impressive 875 trucks/trailers and welcomed thousands of spectators. “The York Expo Center provided an ideal venue for our event, allowing us to display a wide array of trucks, host vendor booths, and offer educational sessions, all within a convenient location,” said ATHS Convention Manager Courtney Cesar. Executive Director John Gravley noted the importance of the expo. “While the diverse display of trucks is a major highlight, the true magic lies in the ATHS reunion, where old friends reconnect and new friendships blossom, creating an irresistible pull for everyone to return year after year. We eagerly anticipate our return in 2028,” Gravely said. The highlight of the Convention is the ATHS Awards Banquet. This year, ATHS had a bountiful number of award winners. The following individuals and companies were honored during the banquet for their involvement and consecutive years of service to the trucking industry: Golden Achievement Award (50+ years of dedication): Charles Oliver Brown of Westminster, S.C. Jim Eisenhard of Macungie, Penn. Mark Henderson of Weedsport, N.Y. Paul Kauffman of Belleville, Penn. Maxwell Keough of Logan, Utah; formerly Sydney, Australia. Larry Martin of Reinholds, Penn. Dan Melone of Andover, Mass. Billy Parker of Norwood, N.C. Lenny Wild of Newton, Kan. ATHS Historian Award: Don Arnauckas of Oakville, Conn. Dick Callaway of Tryon, N.C. ATHS Distinguished Service Award: Henry Fowler of Mechanicsville, Md. Carolyn Vannatta of Leonardtown, Md. Museum Recognition: George Kirkham, Kirkham International Truck Museum of Alberta, Canada. 50-Year Company Award: Parker’s Garage of Gig Harbor, Wash. 75-Year Company Award: Makovsky Brothers of Whitehill, Penn. Additionally, the 2024 ATHS scholarship winners were announced. The outstanding students have made significant impacts in their communities and schools. Winners include: George Schroyer Memorial Scholarships: Cash McCord (Tipton, IN), son of ATHS member Shaun McCord. Deo Read IV (Red Hook, NY), son of ATHS member Deo Wilson Read III. The Cummins Scholarship went to John Goodfellow (Lyman, S.C.), grandson of ATHS lifetime member Marty Glomb. The Lewis Semple Clarke Educational Fund recipient is Anna Rhodus, of Shawnee, Kan., granddaughter of ATHS member Leo Rieke. The American Trucking and Industry Hall of Fame revealed its 2024 inductees, who will be honored at an induction ceremony on October 23, 2024, at the ATHS office in Kansas City, Mo. They include: Robert Young, ABF; John Ruan, Ruan Transportation; Marvin Rush, Rush Enterprises; and Fred Jones, ThermoKing.

C.H. Robinson names Rajan as chief strategy and innovation officer

By Dana Guthrie - June 24, 2024

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — In a pivotal move, global logistics leader C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. has announced that Arun Rajun, who is COO, will transition into the role of chief strategy and innovation officer, effective immediately. “Innovation is at the heart of Robinson’s competitive differentiation, and I am excited to serve in this role and help ensure that we deliver industry-leading ideas, solutions and expertise while remaining relentlessly focused on continuous improvement,” Rajan said. ”The strategy process is not static. It requires diligent monitoring of internal execution and capabilities and the constantly evolving external landscape to take advantage of opportunities. This organizational evolution is the start of something really powerful for the future of Robinson and the industry.” Rajan’s focus will be to drive strategy and foster innovation across the company while also working closely with the Chief Financial Officer to deliver near-term and long-term enterprise strategic planning, development, and deployment across C.H. Robinson. “With a single-threaded leader at the helm of strategy and innovation, we are doubling down on efforts already underway to bring industry-leading products, technology, solutions, and ways of working to the global logistics marketplace,” said Dave Bozeman, President and CEO of C.H. Robinson. “This new role is a testament to C.H. Robinson’s unwavering commitment to innovation, discipline and profitable growth, and we are confident it will help enable strategic outcomes to better serve our customers and carriers.” In partnership with the senior leadership team, the Rajun will help drive long-term, sustainable and profitable growth by maximizing the strategic opportunities of Robinson’s leadership position in the industry in support of our customers, carriers and employees. Rajun will lead the strategy process and operating mechanisms to track progress and implementation of strategic initiatives against objectives as well as lead research and analysis to inform major company decisions related to portfolio, mergers and acquisitions and organizational transformation. According to a statement released by C.H. Robinson, the transition marks a critical point in the company’s journey as it continues to drive operational excellence and strategic vision to become fit, fast and focused. As C.H. Robinson implements its new operating model that is infusing tighter accountability, discipline and collaboration across divisions as One Robinson, it is ready for a chief strategy and innovation officer to help advance the operating model while enabling strategic outcomes at an even faster rate. The position of COO will not be backfilled. “The COO role has been instrumental in laying the foundation for Robinson’s success, driving tight alignment between business teams and digital investments, and delivering measurable value toward business growth and productivity improvements,” Bozeman said. “This evolution underscores the effectiveness of the company’s collective efforts, and the logical next step is to transition some of these digitally-oriented operating structures into the core operation and turn Arun’s focus to accelerating strategy and innovation to drive the company and the industry forward.”

FHWA releases $6M in emergency funding to WYDOT in wake of Teton Pass landslide

By Dana Guthrie - June 24, 2024

WASHINGTON D.C — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced June 21 the immediate availability of $6 million in “quick release” Emergency Relief (ER) funds for the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) to offset the costs of repairs in the Teton Range caused by a landslide earlier this month. “The Teton Pass is a key route for workers and visitors traveling between Idaho and Wyoming, and the emergency funding we’re sending will help reopen and restore access to this important roadway as quickly as possible,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “In discussing the situation with (WYDOT), it has been clear how urgent the need is to support their efforts to reconnect one of the region’s heavily traveled mountain thoroughfares — and to make our infrastructure more resilient to future weather events.” The funds also will be used to build a safe, temporary detour near the Wyoming-Idaho border that restores critical access to popular tourist destinations such as Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park. “The Federal Highway Administration is working closely with the Wyoming Department of Transportation to repair the damage caused by the landslide at Teton Pass,” Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt said. “The Emergency Relief funding we are providing will help get repairs done as soon as possible and restore temporary access to the area during the busy summer tourist season.” On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Wyoming State Highway 22, also known as Teton Pass, experienced a catastrophic landslide causing a complete loss of the roadway at milepost 12.8. Another landslide occurred a day earlier at milepost 15 covering the highway in mud and debris. No vehicles were on the highway at the time of the collapse and there were no injuries reported. Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon issued an executive order on June 8 declaring an emergency in response to both landslides. WYDOT crews are evaluating the stability of the area and are assessing potential safety hazards. State geologists and engineers are confident they can build a safe, temporary, two-lane detour around the slide area within a few weeks using local fill material with likely weight and width restrictions. Drainage improvements, including a box culvert at the mudslide site at milepost 15, are also planned to be added while work on the temporary roadway is taking place. The goal is to restore essential traffic flow between Wyoming and Idaho for the residents, commuters and tourists who rely on this critical roadway to reach their destinations. Without a direct route, a normal 30-minute commute can take an hour and a half. On June 17, during his visit to Cheyenne, Buttigieg received operational updates on the emergency response to the landslide from Gordon, WYDOT Director Darin Westby and WYDOT staff. State officials and the U.S. Forest Service are working to provide access to recreation areas and trails outside the slide area and to place signage on the roads to allow users to access campsites unaffected by the closure.

Truckstop says: Beware of ‘im-paw-sters’ during Take your Pet to Work Week

By Dana Guthrie - June 19, 2024

BOISE, IDAHO — In honor of Take Your Pet to Work Week (June 17-21), transportation professionals can have their furry or feathery friends “verified” by Truckstop — and then show off their pets’ badges for a good cause. A recent online survey of more than 450 Truckstop customers revealed that 53% of pet owners within the trucking industry believe it’s important to confirm the credentials of pet service providers, such as groomers or walkers, before using them. In addition, 66% of drivers surveyed say they are pet owners, and most (86% say they travel with their dog). Many have even modified their trucks to accommodate their pets. For each image shared on social media, Truckstop will donate $20 to a pet charity (up to $500). With many drivers bringing their best pals along with them, proper identification is even more important. “As an owner-operator, the long hours on the road can be tough, but having my dogs with me changes everything,” said Sam Bissonnette. “They aren’t just pets, they’re my companions and co-pilots. Their unwavering loyalty and companionship keep me motivated and give me a sense of home while I travel. I can’t imagine life on the road without them by my side.” Bissonnette takes his two Belgian shepherds, Denver and Dallas, on the road with him. While enroute from Georgia to Canada, Denver saw a deer and chased it into the woods during a pitstop. After a couple of nerve-wracking weeks and multiple visits to the area where he had run off, the two were finally reunited. Tune in to hear more about Bissonette’s story in a special edition of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast. While the pet verification initiative is designed for entertainment, Truckstop says the company is deeply committed to combating fraud in the freight industry. Identity verification helps stop fraud and eliminate identity theft by letting brokers easily see if a carrier is who they say they are through a simple-to-understand badge. The solution combines government-issued IDs and real-time photographs to perform a check against the carrier’s registered information, giving brokers the ability to book carriers with more confidence. To participate in Truckstop’s pet verification project, click here.

Volvo Trucks celebrates 1st order of 50 VNLs by Legend Transportation

By Dana Guthrie - June 18, 2024

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America has received its first order for the all-new Volvo VNL, the OEM. Legend Transportation Inc. worked with dealer TEC Equipment to secure 50 Volvo VNL 860s, the OEM’s flagship sleeper. The trucks will be manufactured at the Volvo Trucks New River Valley Assembly Operations (NRV) in Dublin, Virginia. Volvo Trucks introduced the new VNL in January, opened the order books in April and plans to start production this summer. Customer deliveries are expected to begin later this year. “The all-new Volvo VNL is setting the new industry standard, and we are extremely excited that a top customer has placed such a significant order as soon as the order books opened,” said Volvo Truck North American President Peter Voorhoeve. “Legend’s early adoption is a testament to the immense customer value offered by the all-new Volvo VNL and what it will mean for safety, fuel efficiency, connectivity and driver productivity,” he continued. “Legend wanted to demonstrate their commitment to quality and innovation combined with sustainability to both current and prospective customers, as well as present and prospective drivers.” Legend Transportation was founded by Baveljit “Sunny” Samara, who began his career almost 25 years ago as an owner-operator with one truck. Samara, who started driving at the age of 22, says he understands the importance of the customizable driver-focused features in the all-new Volvo VNL that minimize fatigue and enhance the overall driving experience. The class-leading safety features and systems in the all-new Volvo VNL provide drivers with unparalleled protection and peace of mind, ensuring a safer driving experience in all conditions. “The all-new Volvo VNL will play a big part in our sustainability and overall business goals. Fuel economy is paramount, as are the other areas where the all-new Volvo VNL adds tremendous customer value,” Samara said. “The new Volvo VNL will help us attract top talent and provide a big boost in our effort to recruit and retain drivers, which remains a significant industry challenge. The improved technology and amenities will make our drivers more productive, comfortable and the job more enjoyable.” The company focused on the advanced active safety features in the all-new Volvo VNL that were designed to mitigate both forward and side collisions. The proprietary Volvo Active Driver Assist (VADA) package, standard across all VNL models, features forward collision avoidance technology to assist drivers in maintaining safe speeds and distances and offers adaptive cruise control that maintains a safe following distance. A new forward pedestrian detection feature is also part of the standard VADA package and alerts the driver to pedestrians or bicyclists in their path. Legend added the VADA Plus option, which includes short-range detection that senses pedestrians and bicyclists that may appear in blind spots immediately on either side of the truck and trailer. It can also activate frontal automatic emergency braking when objects are directly in the path of travel. While rising insurance costs have significantly impacted operational expenses for fleet operators, the safety innovations in the all-new Volvo VNL help protect drivers and those around the trucks, reducing risks of collisions. This is part of Volvo Trucks’ ‘Towards Zero’ vision where the goal is a future where there are zero accidents involving a Volvo truck. The new Volvo VNL features a range of amenities to make drivers more comfortable and productive, with a premium living and resting environment to make drivers feel at home even when they are thousands of miles away. The ultra-quiet Volvo Parking Cooler reduces emissions and cuts fuel costs while providing an integrated climate-control option that leverages battery power to operate the cab’s HVAC system when parked overnight. This provides a quieter, more vibration-free sleeping environment for drivers when the vehicle is stopped or parked in areas that prohibit idling, maintaining a comfortable climate to maximize driver health, safety, and well-being. Volvo Trucks has transformed the spec’ing process for the all-new Volvo VNL series by introducing packaging options for interior and exterior, powertrain, technology, amenities, and safety. The approach is an industry first that simplifies and optimizes the configuration and ordering process for customers allowing Volvo Trucks to pass along added value and cost savings to the customer over traditional ala carte spec’ing. TEC Equipment provided comprehensive guidance to Legend Transportation throughout the process of selecting the optimal configuration for their all-new Volvo VNLs. To explore the new features and trim levels interactively, Volvo Trucks developed a state-of-the-art online Volvo VNL configurator. The configurator tool provides detailed information on the features and benefits of each trim level and cab option, as well as a 360-degree view of the truck interior and exterior. This allows fleets to customize the optimal truck for their operations. “We conducted several in-depth consultations to fully explain the capabilities of each option and highlight how each feature could benefit their specific use cases,” said regional sales director of TEC Equipment Adam VanderBee. “Our goal was to ensure that Legend Transportation could fully leverage the innovative features of the all-new Volvo VNL to enhance their operational efficiency and driver satisfaction. The end result is a product that we see as the flagship of Legend’s fleet.”

Paccar’s CARB-compliant low NOx MX-13 engine now available on Peterbilt models 579, 567, 589

By Dana Guthrie - June 18, 2024

DENTON, Texas — Peterbilt has announced the availability of a new CARB low nitrogen oxide (NOx) compliant PACCAR MX-13 engine in the Models 579, 567 and 589. The engine meets the CARB Omnibus Regulation and features redesigns of internal hardware and the aftertreatment system to effectively reduce NOx emissions. “PACCAR MX engines were engineered for reliability and fuel economy in a comfortable, quiet and powerful package,” said Peterbuilt Chief Engineer Scott Newhouse. “The new CARB low NOx PACCAR MX-13 engine offers the same great features with a reduced carbon footprint for our customers. The larger volume aftertreatment system includes an innovative compact twin assembly featuring a 48-volt generator located in the flywheel housing, and an electrical heater located in the inlet to provide lower NOx output. The internal hardware now features a larger volume mixer, longer selective catalytic converter (SCR) and an improved and more durable NOx sensor design with increased longevity for improved uptime. These features allow Peterbilt customers to achieve increased engine efficiency and fuel economy while continuing to meet stringent CARB emissions regulation. The CARB low NOx compliant PACCAR MX-13 engine combines the proven diesel powertrain with next-generation technology. It is available in two ratings with a flat torque curve providing performance across a wider range of RPMs for excellent drivability and fuel economy. This includes a high performance 510-horsepower rating with 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque and an efficiency focused rating of 455-horsepower and 1,650 lb.-ft. of torque between 900 and 1,325 RPM.

KBX Logistics/Georgia-Pacific named Paper Transport’s CPG Dedicated Carrier of the Year

By Dana Guthrie - June 17, 2024

DE PERE, Wisc. — KBX Logistics/Georgia-Pacific Paper Transport (PTI) has been awarded the 2023 CPG Dedicated Carrier of the Year award. “To be the best dedicated carrier for one of the largest companies in America is huge,” said Vice President of Operations Wes Kornowske. “That is the top of the mountain.” The company has received the award 10 times during its history. Kornowske highlighted the impressive work of the drivers and collaborative efforts made by the entire team. “We are a bigger company now than ever, but we all still touch that customer in some way,” Kornowske said. CEO Ben Schill also praised the team. “Everybody is working together to create an excellent experience for our customer,” Schill said. “Our goal has always been to be an extension of the KBX Logistics team who handles the transportation for Georgia Pacific. Through the years, we have made each other stronger, and this award is a testament to the valuewe provide year after year.” According to PTI, a top 100 for-hire truckload carrier, its best-in-class drivers are committed to providing outstanding service. Their driver coaching and hiring practices prioritize performance and safety, further enhancing supply chain efficiency. In its 30+ years, Paper Transport has established a notable national presence, offering both asset and non-asset solutions through strategic partnerships and versatile logistics capabilities.

Gerstenslager joins Utility Trailer Manufacturing

By Dana Guthrie - June 17, 2024

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif. — Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company LLC has announces the addition of Matt Gerstenslager in a new dual role. Gerstenslager will head new dealer development, in addition to improving regional sales support for the east. He comes with seven plus years of experience with Hendrickson International, in various sales and marketing management capacities, and most recently as director of marketing for their suspension products. “Many of us know Matt and we welcome his technical and sales experience, and knowledge of our industry and the competitive landscape,” said Utility’s Chief of Sales Mark Glasgow. “His experience and understanding of our products will prove invaluable in providing excellent service to our dealers and widening our reach to underserved areas. We are thrilled to have him as part of our team.” Gerstenslager will be based out of Canton, Ohio. The hiring comes as Utility continues to strengthen its sales and service support to its extensive and growing dealer network.

Six geese a strollin’: Gaggle stops traffic in Virginia

By Dana Guthrie - June 20, 2024

While the world may never know why the chicken crossed the road, in the case of a gaggle of geese in North Virginia, they crossed a highway safely with the help of the Virginia State POlice. According to WOTP News, there was plenty of honking going on during the morning traffic rush, but it was not all coming from the commuters. A family of six geese found their way onto the northbound 395 Express Lane on Tuesday morning. The lucky feathered family was granted a police escort and help from VDOT during rush hour traffic to make sure the two geese and four goslings had a protected stroll to a safe place. Woodbridge resident Judy Malana was on her way to work at the Navy Yard when the traffic slowed to a crawl. Afraid that it was a car accident, Malana instead got a happy surprise. “It was a delight to see something different,” Malana said. “And it just really made me stop and think. You know, no matter how familiar our commute is, we don’t really know what’s up ahead.” While it did take nearly two hours to get to the nearest exit ramp at Edsall Road, commuters who have now learned of the story did not seem to mind. The event has become a viral sensation with over two million views from news organizations and social media. “It just reminded me to be open-minded,” Malana said. “We don’t control traffic. We don’t even control who we’re on the road with. Just learning what’s up ahead, it could be a surprise.” Even the WTOP Traffic reporters loved the event stating, “No harm, no fowl.”

FMCSA pushes commercial drivers to buckle up

By Dana Guthrie - June 15, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Federal Motor Carriers Association (FMCSA) is placing an even greater emphasis on the importance of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers using seat belts. “Existing data on the usage of safety belts and perceptions related to road safety do not capture the diversity of different types of commercial motor vehicle drivers in a post coronavirus disease 2019 national emergency landscape,” the FMCSA stated in a Department of Transportation Federal Register document dated June 13. “Understanding safety belt usage and perceptions of road safety among CMV drivers will assist FMCSA in gauging emerging trends among this cohort and will inform future messaging and communication efforts targeting CMV drivers.” Earlier this year, the state of New York launched a new initiative to help safety efforts on the highway. An announcement was made June 6 that Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a leading global NGO focused on building cross-sector partnerships to improve fleet trucking safety, announces the publication of “Seat Belt Safety Standard Operating Procedures: How to create and maintain a culture of safety by promoting seat belt safety procedures.” This new guide marks significant progress in establishing seat belt safety utilization standards as part of TSR’s Fleet Trucking Global Safety Standards Initiative. The initiative, launched during the 2023 UN Global Road Safety Week, aims to establish operator-focused guidelines and best practices for effective implementation of fundamental safety tools and technologies, including telematics, automatic braking, airbags, side view mirrors and seatbelts. The first phase has been dedicated to developing “Gold Star” Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at increasing driver seat belt utilization rates for fleets. According to its press release, extensive research and stakeholder engagement, TSR identified a critical need for detailed SOPs that address both human behavior and specific seat belt hardware and technology. The new handbook, based on insights from fleet managers, drivers, and public and private sector leaders, highlights the importance of consistent seat belt use and offers practical guidance to enhance safety measures. “Today marks a significant milestone in our mission to improve global fleet trucking safety, said Peter Goldwasser, executive director of Together for Safer Roads. “The SOPs outlined in our guide represent a comprehensive framework for promoting and supporting seat belt usage within organizations.” Key aspects of the SOPs include: • Training for Seat Belt Compliance: Building a foundation of knowledge and cultivating a culture of safety through comprehensive training initiatives. The SOPs stress the importance of integrating seat belt safety goals into organizational and operational practices. This includes incorporating seat belt usage into driver performance evaluations and utilizing data analytics to measure and enhance compliance. • Seat Belt Software and Hardware Selection: Adopting the most reliable and effective technological solutions to bolster seat belt compliance and monitoring. • Purchasing and Evaluating Vehicle Seat Belt Safety Systems: Ensuring that the procurement of vehicles and their safety equipment is guided by informed, safety-focused decisions. This involves establishing clear criteria for seat belt safety features and assessing the safety records and seat belt technology of potential vehicle models to maintain compliance with seat belt safety regulations. • Seat Belt Utilization Enforcement: Creating mechanisms for compliance while ensuring accountability and timely corrective actions. • Communication for Seat Belt Safety Awareness: Establishing clear channels and protocols for disseminating safety information, collecting feedback, and fostering dialogue. To make the necessity of seat belt usage more relatable and impactful, the SOP incorporates interactive training methods and anecdotal storytelling to educate drivers about the importance of seat belt safety. • Documentation of Seat Belt Safety Compliance: Ensuring meticulous record-keeping, accessibility and regular updates to all seat belt safety-related documents.The SOPs emphasize the importance of measurement and evaluation (M&E) in ensuring the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of seat belt safety initiatives. They outline the role of M&E in accountability, performance improvement, resource allocation, learning, evidence-based decision-making, impact assessment, transparency, risk management, efficiency and stakeholder engagement. Within each section, practices are categorized as currently existing practices, industry best practices and easy to implement takeaways, providing fleet leaders a range of tools to implement in their own management practices. The initiative’s development and subsequent testing are being conducted in collaboration with leading fleet partners, including AB InBev, Republic Services, The City of New York Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), PepsiCo and Interstate Waste Services. These partners emphasize the collective responsibility of organizations to contribute to long-term improvements in global fleet trucking safety. “As a major user of roads worldwide, improving the safety of our vehicles and their operation not only benefits us but also enhances road safety for everyone,” said Andres Peñate, global vice president for corporate affairs at Ab-InBev. “We’re excited to team up with TSR to set better technical standards on the proper use of seatbelts. This important work demonstrates the positive change industry collaboration can have on our communities.” “As the operator of one of the largest independently-owned fleets in the US, and a network of drivers across the globe, maintaining driver safety, health and wellbeing is essential,” said Daniel McGuigan, EHS director at PepsiCo. “At PepsiCo we’re proud of this important collaboration and look forward to continuing to work to advance seat belt usage and best practices.” In 1996, in an open letter to Praxair professional drivers was received by the FMCSA by line driver Ed Corely. Despite the passage of time, the message Corley wrote is timeless when it comes to the importance of seatbelt use among CMV drivers. The title of the letter was, “Just Wear It, There Are No Excuses.” The following are excerpts from Corely’s letter. “A local paper reported Sunday that a 19 year old was killed when he was ejected from a car his friend was driving,” Corely said. “On Saturday night, the driver apparently lost control of the car, crossed a ditch, and stopped in a neighbor’s yard. The paper stated the boy would have been starting college the next week and was not wearing a seatbelt before he was killed. “A Praxair professional driver was killed when the truck he was driving left the road and overturned. He was not wearing his seatbelt! Another Praxair driver was thrown through the windshield when the truck he was driving left the road. He was seriously injured. He was also not wearing his seatbelt. “A few years ago, the first legislation requiring seat belts was enacted. I heard someone protesting the mandatory seatbelt laws saying the law was a violation of his individual rights. Being a liberal-minded thinker in those days, my first impression was to agree. Then, the more I thought about it and examined my feelings about the law, I realized how sad it was that legislation is needed to protect us from ourselves. Think about it. The mandatory seatbelt laws and Praxair policies requiring the wearing of seatbelts are all about protecting us and saving lives. “What is your excuse for not wearing your seatbelt? I hope your answer is, ‘I don’t have an excuse. I wear it all the time.’ If you don’t wear your seatbelt, is it really the smart thing to do. “Could you live with yourself if your child or grandchild were killed in a car accident when not wearing a seatbelt because of the example you set? I don’t think so. If you are in a serious accident, I hope we don’t have to say, ‘If only he/she had used his/her seatbelt.’” The FMSCA is requesting that commercial drivers help update the statistics by providing public comments through August 12. To submit a comment online, click here. If submitting comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 8.5×11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. Comments received after the comment closing date will be included in the docket and will be considered to the extent practicable.

NDOT breaks ground on US-30 Grand Island West

By Dana Guthrie - June 14, 2024

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), alongside Mayor Roger Steele of Grand Island, Mike Werner, Project Manager at Werner Construction, Inc., and Wes Wahlgren, Division Engineer of NDOT District 4, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the US-30 Grand Island West project on June 13. “The legislature’s support of transportation is incredibly important, said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “Without their support, we wouldn’t be out here today.” This significant event marks the start of a long-awaited highway expansion that includes the construction of a four-lane expressway and the realignment of existing roads to align with the proposed US-30 route. The project is a testament to NDOT’s dedication to enhancing Nebraska’s expressway system, focusing on improving safety, connectivity and economic development. Made possible through the unwavering support of the Build Nebraska Act and the Transportation Innovation Act, this expansion signifies a new era of infrastructure advancement in the state. Kramer highlighted the pivotal role of the state’s elected leaders supporting transportation initiatives and expressed gratitude to Senators Raymond Aguilar and Mike Moser. Kramer also noted the transformative impact of the Build Nebraska Act, emphasizing its importance in ensuring that critical transportation projects are completed. During the 2023 Legislative Session, the governor’s leadership along with support of the Nebraska Legislature helped pass initiatives to improve NDOT’s project delivery and construction, including extending the Build Nebraska Act through 2042. “This new roadway represents growth, progress, and a bright future for Grand Island,” said Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele. “Our investment in the state’s infrastructure is a testament to our commitment to the future. Steele stressed the project’s focus on safety, a shared priority with NDOT. “Safety is at the forefront of this project, ensuring that both our residents and visitors can travel with greater peace of mind,” Steele said. The improvements will reduce congestion and the risk of accidents, making our roads safer for everyone.” Kramer echoed the importance of safety, urging the public to remain vigilant. “Please continue to buckle up, put your phone down, and use every opportunity to talk to your friends and family about the safety of our roadways,” Kramer said. “Distracted driving is a real danger, and with more construction zones throughout the summer, we need to be diligent. Whether through construction measures or through education on the importance of road safety, let’s work together to make our roads safer.”

Missouri governor breaks ground on Improve I-70 project

By Dana Guthrie - June 15, 2024

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Gov. Mike Parson kicked off the first project within Missouri’s Improve I-70 Program with an official groundbreaking ceremony in Columbia on Thursday, June 13. “Today’s groundbreaking is a momentous occasion not only because we’re kicking off our historic Improve I-70 project, but it’s a culmination of the bold infrastructure initiatives we’ve prioritized since day one,” Parson said. “I-70 is one of Missouri’s oldest and most vital corridors. The safety and economic prosperity of Missourians depend on an interstate that grows along with the state and nation. “Expanding I-70 to six lanes has been talked about in Jefferson City for decades, but our administration, in working with Senator Lincoln Hough and the General Assembly, is taking action and getting it done,” he continued. “We could not be more proud that the work we’re commemorating here today will continue serving Missourians for generations to come.” Parson joined federal, state and local elected officials, along with members of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and its Design-Build contractor team, to break ground on the first project, Columbia to Kingdom City. “Today’s I-70 groundbreaking kicks off a historic, once-in-a-generation investment that will benefit Missouri businesses, commuters, and tourists alike for decades to come,” said Sen. Lincoln Hough, Missouri Senate Appropriations Chair. “I was happy to lead this project’s development in the General Assembly and work with Gov. Parson to lead the nation in large scale infrastructure development. “Today, decades of talk turns to action,“ he continued. “This project is pro-infrastructure, pro-business, pro-jobs, and, above all, pro-Missouri. We thank Governor Parson for being a leader in strengthening Missouri’s infrastructure as we look forward to continuing the strong foundation he has built on behalf of all Missourians.” Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly, signed into law by Parson, provides $2.8 billion in general revenue for the costs to build a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70 from Blue Springs to Wentzville. This first project, Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City, is a $405 million fixed-cost contract that will add an additional lane to I-70 in each direction between U.S. Route 63 in Columbia and Route 54 in Kingdom City. The project also incorporates $123 million in previously programmed MoDOT projects to improve the I-70 interchanges at both Route 63 and 54. “Thank you to the governor and the General Assembly for their support of this generational investment of I-70 for Missouri’s future,” said Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Chairman W. Dustin Boatwright. “Today’s event in Columbia is just the first step to transform I-70 across the state. While we celebrate today, we are actively working on the next bid package, and we look forward to completion of the entire I-70 corridor by late 2030.” The planned improvements for the Columbia to Kingdom City project from the Design-Build contractor Millstone Weber and its designer Jacobs Inc. also includes new concrete pavement on all three lanes of I-70 in each direction of the project. Additionally, throughout construction two lanes of travel will be available in both directions of I-70 during peak hours. Construction of this project is set to begin in July 2024 with an anticipated completion in late 2027.

Federal judge orders Houston company to pay wages, damages to fired truck driver

By Dana Guthrie - June 15, 2024

HOUSTON, Texas — A federal administrative law judge has upheld the Department of Labor’s (DOL) finding that Crane Masters Inc., a Houston crane and rigging services provider, violated federal law by firing a company truck driver on June 5, 2020, for refusing to exceed safe driving limits set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. An investigation by the DOL’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined the driver, employed by Crane Masters, told their employer that, after working 19 hours on June 4, 2020, it would be unsafe for them to operate a commercial vehicle as they had not had the legally required amount of time off before returning to work. The company responded by terminating the driver. “Congress enacted the world’s first whistleblower protections in 1778 to ensure that people who come forward to report illegal behaviors or actions don’t suffer for doing what’s right,” said Eric Harbin, Dallas OSHA Regional Administrator. “In this case, Crane Masters Inc. was held accountable for retaliating against an employee who acted responsibly by raising their concerns about endangering themselves and others by operating a commercial vehicle without sufficient rest.” OSHA determined thata the company illegally fired the employee for exercising their protected rights under the federal Whistleblower Protection Program. The department’s Regional Solicitor in Dallas presented its case during a formal hearing in Houston Oct. 14, 2022. On May 13, 2024, the judge issued a decision upholding OSHA’s findings and ordered Crane Masters to pay the former truck driver $14,945 in back pay, interest and compensatory damages. The company must also expunge the former employee’s record and post a notice to employees. “Once again, the Department of Labor has vigorously enforced the rights of employees who report safety or regulatory violations,” said Regional Solicitor John Rainwater. “Whistleblower rights are crucial to the safety of employees and the public at-large. A federal judge upheld the department’s contention that Crane Masters wrongly retaliated against a hard-working employee for doing what’s right.” OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program enforces the whistleblower provisions of more than 20 whistleblower statutes protecting employees from retaliation for reporting violations of various workplace safety and health, airline, commercial motor carrier, consumer product, environmental, financial reform, food safety, health insurance reform, motor vehicle safety, nuclear, pipeline, public transportation agency, railroad, maritime, securities, tax, antitrust and anti-money laundering laws, and for engaging in other related protected activities. For more information on whistleblower protections, visit OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Programs webpage.

DAVCO ‘goes West,’ names industry veteran Tim West as company president

By Dana Guthrie - June 15, 2024

SALINE, Mich. — DAVCO Technology has named Tim West as new company president. DAVCO is owned by Michigan-based Clarience Technologies, a global transportation technology provider. “I am excited to join the DAVCO team,” West said. “DAVCO has provided an excellent engineered product that has been well received in the industry for decades. I’m looking forward to utilizing my background to help drive continued product development and growth across multiple market segments.” West joins DAVCO after nearly 12 years with the Commercial Vehicle Group Inc., where he most recently served as vice president of seating and structures for the vehicle solutions division. He previously held a number of titles with the Group, including vice president of customer success; vice president of warehouse automation; senior director and product line manager for global truck seating; director and product line manager for off-road seats, trim and wipers; and director of product line management for global wire harness. Before that, he held a variety of program manager and engineering positions with companies including Honeywell, MicroMetl, American Boa and ArvinMeritor. West holds a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University. “Tim’s leadership and well-rounded experience with on and off-highway applications will help accelerate DAVCO’s growth plan and product offerings to new, exciting industries, while continuing to provide the industry-leading solutions that our customers have come to expect,” said Mark Bara, Clarience Technologies’ president of performance solutions.

SupplyTech names Transflo’s Renee Krug as CEO of the year

By Dana Guthrie - June 15, 2024

TAMPA, Fla. — Transflo CEO Renee Krug has been named the SupplyTech Company CEO of the Year. “I’m overwhelmed with this honor from SupplyTech Breakthrough, and I want to thank my entire team at Transflo,” Krug said. “I think success comes from consistently prioritizing two key questions, ‘What is the best experience for the client?’ and ‘How can we make their day easier?’” The award was presented as part of the annual SupplyTech Breakthrough Awards program. The honor has been awarded by SupplyTech Breakthrough, a leading independent market intelligence organization that evaluates and recognizes standout technology companies, products, and services in the supply chain technology and logistics industries around the globe. “Going forward, Transflo will maintain a focus on innovation and leadership in the transportation sector,” Krug said. “Our journey, characterized by a blend of pioneering spirit and strategic leadership, stands as a testament to our enduring commitment to technological advancement and customer-centric solutions.” A statement from Transflo notes that, since its inception in 1991, the company has been at the forefront of technological innovation in transportation, including its introduction of document scanning technology and the development of one of the industry’s first smartphone applications for digital document scanning, Transflo Mobile+. With a clear vision and a commitment to technological advancement, Krug has propelled Transflo’s digital transformation forward, the statement continues. She has led Transflo through a renaissance, reimagining the company’s vision and strategy. Under her strategic leadership, Transflo has embraced and pioneered the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in transportation. Under Krug’s leadership, the company has created a platform that enables companies to achieve up to 90% productivity gains, and her leadership style has advanced the company’s mission and encouraged staff and customers to reach their fullest potential. Recently named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in SaaS, Krug says she identifies opportunities by approaching business with a customer-focused mindset. Her leadership style is characterized by a willingness to embrace innovative approaches and a methodical attitude toward risk-taking. This combination has been a key driver in Transflo exceeding $100 million in annual revenue. The mission of the annual SupplyTech Breakthrough Awards program is to conduct the industry’s most comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the top technology companies, solutions and products in the supply chain and logistics industry today. This year’s program attracted thousands of nominations from over 15 different countries around the world. “Renee Krug epitomizes the ideal blend of entrepreneurial spirit and visionary leadership,” said Bryan Vaughn, managing director of the SupplyTech Breakthrough Awards. “In taking the helm of a company already known for its pioneering advancements, she faced the complexities inherent in existing technologies and client relationships. Her courage and perseverance have been instrumental in Transflo’s transformation into a SaaS leader,” he continued. “Under Renee’s guidance, Transflo has achieved significant milestones in revenue and product development. Her journey is a powerful example of how identifying opportunities for innovation, taking calculated risks, and demonstrating courage and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements.”