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The Trucker News Staff

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About The Trucker News Staff
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Posts by The Trucker News Staff

Ryder to provide maintenance for Waymo’s Class 8 autonomous trucks

By The Trucker News Staff -

MIAMI — Ryder System Inc. and Waymo Via have formed a partnership to provide maintenance for Class 8 autonomous trucks in an effort to maximize vehicle up-time and ensure the reliability required to scale operations nationwide. Waymo Via is the trucking and local delivery unit of autonomous driving developer Waymo. According to a statement from the two companies, Waymo Via’s growing fleet and geographical footprint calls for a robust, scalable maintenance solution — and Ryder has a network of more than 500 maintenance facilities in the U.S. and nearly 90 years of fleet maintenance expertise. The two companies will partner on servicing and evolving maintenance practices for autonomously driven trucks across Waymo Via sites in Texas, Arizona, California, Michigan and Ohio, as well as roadside service between hubs. “While this partnership initially focuses on fleet maintenance, we see many opportunities to collaborate on autonomous trucking operations in order to successfully deploy these trucks at scale,” said Karen Jones, chief marketing officer and head of new product development for Ryder. “Already, we’ve collaborated on the layout and design of Waymo’s new Dallas facility to ensure it’s optimized for serviceability of trucks and for the transfer hub model they plan to pursue in the near future,” she said. “Autonomous Class 8 technology is quickly taking hold, and Ryder is poised to become a leader — not only in servicing trucks but also in managing the unique logistics of autonomous operations.” Waymo offers more than a decade of experience in building autonomous driving technology, and has driven more than 20 million miles on public roads across 10 U.S. states; in addition to 20 billion miles in simulation. “As we continue to scale our autonomous trucking operations, we couldn’t have found a better partner than Ryder,” said Charlie Jatt, head of commercialization for Waymo Via trucking. “There are many synergies between our Waymo Via vision and operations and Ryder’s expertise and resources, and we look forward to unlocking best-in-class solutions within the industry and bringing autonomously driven trucks to market throughout the U.S.”

Cocaine seizure at US-Canada border leads to criminal charges against driver

By The Trucker News Staff -

POINT EDWARD, Ontario, Canada — Charges have been filed against the driver of a commercial truck following the seizure of 183 pounds of suspected cocaine by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) earlier this month. On Aug. 9, a commercial truck driven by 46-year-old Gurdeep Singh Mangat of Brampton, Ontario, entered Canada from the U.S. at the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, Ontario. The truck was referred for a secondary inspection, where CBSA officers found and seized approximately 183 pounds (83 kg) of suspected cocaine. The CBSA arrested Mangat and transferred him and the suspected cocaine to the custody of Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), who are conducting the investigation. The RCMP has charged Mangat with importation of a controlled substance and possession for the purpose of trafficking. “We are proud of our officers at the front line who work tirelessly to protect Canadians and keep drugs out of our communities,” said An Nguyen, district director of St. Clair District Operations for CBSA. “This seizure is another example of the ongoing cooperation that exists between the CBSA and the RCMP.”

Brake Safety Week now underway throughout North America

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREENBELT, Md. — The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) 2021 Brake Safety Week officially kicked off Sunday, Aug. 22, and continues through Saturday, Aug. 28. The vehicle safety initiative focuses on the inspection and identification of brake violations in commercial motor vehicles in North America. During the enforcement blitz, commercial motor vehicle law enforcement personnel in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. will catalog and submit brake inspection and violation data to CVSA. The results will be released later in the year and will include the brake-related out-of-service rates for the week, along with data on chafing air brake hose/tubing violations, the focus area for this year’s Brake Safety Week. “Although inspection of a vehicle’s brake system and its components is always part of the roadside inspection process, Brake Safety Week aims to highlight the importance of brake systems and proper brake maintenance, operation and performance,” said CVSA President Sgt. John Samis with the Delaware State Police. Throughout Brake Safety Week, CVSA-certified inspectors will be conducting North American Standard Level I and V Inspections. When checking the brake system and its components, the inspector will: Check for missing, nonfunctioning, loose, contaminated or cracked parts on the brake system. Check for S-cam flip-over. Listen for audible air leaks around brake components and lines. Check for improper connections and chafing of air hoses and tubing. Ensure slack adjusters are the same length (from center of S-cam to center of clevis pin) and the air chambers on each axle are the same size. Ensure the air system maintains proper air pressure. Look for non-manufactured holes (e.g., rust holes, holes created by rubbing or friction, etc.) and broken springs in the spring brake housing. Mark and measure pushrod travel. Inspect required brake system warning devices, such as anti-lock braking system malfunction lamps and low air-pressure warning devices. Inspect the tractor protection system, including the bleed-back system on the trailer. Ensure the breakaway system is operable on the trailer. In addition to checking brake systems, inspectors may also check cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, driver’s seat (missing), exhaust systems, frames, fuel systems, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, van and open-top trailer bodies, wheels, rims and hubs, windshield wipers, etc. If no critical vehicle inspection item violations are found during a Level I or V inspection, the vehicle is eligible for a CVSA decal. Conversely, vehicles with critical vehicle inspection item violations may be placed out of service. Those violations must be addressed before the vehicle will be permitted to proceed. Brake Safety Week is a campaign of CVSA’s Operation Airbrake program, supported by CVSA member jurisdictions, the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators and Mexico’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation and the National Guard. To see results from the 2020 Brake Safety Week, click here.

New TA Express adds 90 truck parking spaces to Edgerton, Kansas

By The Trucker News Staff -

WESTLAKE, Ohio — TravelCenters of America Inc. (TA) is now serving drivers along Interstate 35 in Kansas, thanks to the opening of a new TA Express travel center at exit 205 in Edgerton. The new TA Express is a franchised location and expands TA’s total nationwide network of travel centers to 275, including 42 franchises. TA Express Edgerton is a newly constructed 9,000 square foot building, and offers a convenient stop between Kansas City and Wichita. Amenities include: Dunkin’ Express, on-site deli with hot and cold food options; Store with coffee, snacks and merchandise; 90 truck parking spaces; 40 car parking spaces; Six diesel fueling positions with Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) on all lanes; 16 gasoline fueling positions; Four showers; A driver lounge; and Laundry facilities. “As we continue expanding our footprint across the country, we are strategically opening travel centers in locations where our services are needed by both professional drivers and motorists,” said Jon Pertchik, CEO of TravelCenters of America. “In partnership with our franchisee, we are proud to join the growing and vibrant Edgerton community and look forward serving both travelers and residents along the Interstate 35 corridor.”

Utah-based ShipEX offers creative solutions to increase driver retention

By The Trucker News Staff -

SALT LAKE CITY — The transportation industry is facing some serious retention issues at the moment. Current driver turnover is some of the highest ever seen, and it’s continuing to grow. Despite this, the majority of drivers surveyed by the Professional Driver Agency this spring said they’re not looking for a new job. When asked why, the two most common responses were that the drivers are either happy with their current employer or nervous about making a move in this economy. If drivers aren’t actively seeking new employment, then what’s responsible for the churn rate? Well, it’s complicated. A number of factors are contributing to the problem — older, more experienced drivers are retiring, many drivers are getting burned out on OTR and switching to local, and the demanding nature of the job is attracting fewer new drivers to the industry. The result? It’s a driver’s market. Carriers are recognizing the incredible demand for drivers and doing everything in their power to keep the drivers they already have. This is forcing recruiting departments to find creative ways to lure drivers with the promise of better perks and compensation. Unsurprisingly, the majority of drivers surveyed cited pay and home time as the two most important factors tied to driver satisfaction. This begs the question: If all carriers are raising pay and doing their best to accommodate home time while delivering for customers, how can a carrier stand out from the pack and attract drivers in such a crowded field? Enter ShipEX ShipEX is a growing Utah-based carrier that has been doing things differently pretty much since its inception. The company made waves in 2015 by being the first major carrier to switch from a cents-per-mile model to a salary base with performance bonuses in order to provide financial stability and peace of mind for its drivers. ShipEX provides a number of other benefits with overall driver well-being in mind — including paying 100% of driver medical premiums, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, paid home time, and many perks. But that’s not what caught our attention. Driver self-expression and inclusion The carrier also encourages self-expression and inclusion by allowing drivers to pick a truck of almost any color, as long as it is on the “ready line” when they’re hired. If a color they want isn’t available, they can request a swap later on. ShipEX also allows drivers who have been with the company for 12 months and are in good standing with their DM and safety to get a custom wrap for their truck. “We want drivers to be happy here, and we understand that self-expression is an important part of feeling fulfilled as a human being. Especially when you spend most of your time in a work vehicle.” ShipEX Marketing Director Vadim Komarov told The Trucker. “We have drivers from all different backgrounds and walks of life, and we want them all to feel welcome and accepted.” ShipEX does wraps to honor every branch of the military and all types of causes for which drivers would like to raise awareness. “We recently did our first LGBTQ+ wrap for a driver named Ryan Walters. His is a hybrid LGBTQ/autism awareness wrap that also honors his brother who died and had autism,” Vadim said. “We are happy to do more, but as far as I know, he is the first to request one this type of wrap. We will do pretty much any theme that a driver wants, our only real rule is nothing political.” Is ShipEX setting a new trend? It will be interesting to see if more carriers follow ShipEX’s lead as they try to come up with new and creative ways to attract drivers in a very robust recruiting environment. To find out more about ShipEX, click here to visit the carrier’s website.

New Love’s now open in Monroe, LA, and Elk Grove Village, IL

By The Trucker News Staff -

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s Travel Stops is now serving customers in Monroe, Louisiana, and Elk Grove Village, Illinois, thanks to two travel stops that opened Aug. 19. The Monroe store, located off Interstate 20 at 335 Highway 594, adds 90 truck parking spaces and 80 jobs to Ouachita Parish. The Elk Grove Village store, located off Illinois Route 83 at 1900 Busse Road, adds 17 truck parking spaces and 50 jobs to Cook County. “We’re excited to open our 10th and 29th locations in Louisiana and Illinois, respectively,” said Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s. “We place Love’s in locations that are easy to access and help get customers back on the road quickly and safely. These two locations — one in the South and one in the Midwest — fit the bill.” Both locations are open 24/7 and offer many amenities, including a CAT scale, laundry facilities bean-to-cup gourmet coffee, brand-name snacks, a Fresh Kitchen concept, and a Mobile to Go Zone with the latest GPS, headsets and smartphone accessories. The Monroe store also offers: More than 13,000 square feet; Chester’s Chicken, Godfather’s Pizza and Subway (all opening Aug. 23); 90 truck parking spaces; 73 car parking spaces; Three RV parking spaces; Eight diesel bays; Seven showers; Speedco (opening soon); and Dog park. The Elk Grove Village store also features: More than 8,000 square feet; Chester’s Chicken and Godfather’s Pizza (both opening Aug. 23); 17 truck parking spaces; 33 car parking spaces; Five diesel bays; and Four showers. In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to be split between Ouachita Parish High School and the Louisiana State Police-Troop F in Monroe, and $2,000 to be split between the Greater Chicago Food Depository-Elk Grove Village Branch and the Alligator Aquatics Swim Club in Elk Grove Village.

ATRI calls for driver input on job motivation, satisfaction

By The Trucker News Staff -

ARLINGTON, Va. — The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) wants to hear from the nation’s professional drivers, and is conducting a poll to find out what motivates drivers to work as owner-operators, independent contractors or company drivers. This initiative was identified by ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee as a top priority in 2020. Drivers are asked to provide input through an online data collection form that will measure what job-related factors contributed to becoming an owner-operator, an independent contractor or a company driver, and whether those expectations have been met. ATRI believes the information collected will provide valuable insight into understanding how drivers could be impacted by legislative and regulatory actions that may impact the way in which drivers are classified. “This ATRI data collection initiative will be critical to understanding why drivers choose the type of employment they do. The motivations behind these choices and their level of satisfaction are important for understanding what types of employment opportunities drivers are looking for and why,” said Tom Weakley, OOIDA Foundation Director of Operations and a member of ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee. To fill out the data collection form, click here. The deadline for completing the survey is Friday, Sept. 17, 2021. All submitted data will be kept strictly confidential, and participants will receive an advance copy of the full report.

Eco-friendly brewskis: Volvo delivers first electric Class 8 truck to New York beer distributor

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America has delivered the first of five Class 8 battery-electric trucks to Manhattan Beer Distributors in New York City. Manhattan Beer Distributors’ battery-electric trucks were the first Volvo VNR Electric models to enter full serial production at Volvo Trucks’ New River Valley manufacturing plant in Dublin, Virginia, which assembles all Volvo trucks sold in North America. Manhattan Beer Distributors commemorated the Aug. 12 delivery with a press event, co-hosted by the New York City Department of Transportation, at the company’s distribution warehouse in the Bronx. “Volvo Trucks commends Manhattan Beer Distributors for continuing two decades of leadership in bringing the most advanced and sustainable commercial trucks to New York City,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “By working together with customers like Manhattan Beer Distributors, that are dedicated to reducing their environmental impact, Volvo Trucks has been able to make meaningful progress on the path toward widescale commercial deployment of VNR Electrics from coast to coast.” The zero-emission regional-haul trucks are joining the beer and beverage distributor’s fleet of more than 400 delivery trucks, and will serve customers in New York City, Long Island and the surrounding counties. Manhattan Beer Distributors began building its low-emission fleet in the 1990s. Today, the company operates more than 160 Volvo VNR and VNL compressed natural gas (CNG) Class 8 trucks; with four more Volvo VNR Electric Class 8 trucks to be added soon. To support the charging of its battery-electric fleet, Manhattan Beer Distributors has installed three Level 3 DC fast chargers at its Bronx facility. These chargers can fully recharge the company’s Volvo VNR Electric trucks up to 80% in 70 minutes. “As one of the largest beverage distributors in the U.S., Manhattan Beer Distributors recognizes the broad sustainability impact that we can make by eliminating our fleet’s tailpipe emissions,” said Simon Bergson, founder, president and CEO of Manhattan Beer Distributors. “We look forward to gaining hands-on experience with our first five VNR Electrics and working with Volvo Trucks and local Volvo Trucks dealership Milea Truck Sales and Leasing to continue expanding our zero-emission fleet.” Milea Truck Sales, which serves New York City and the tri-state area, is Volvo’s first East Coast Volvo EV-certified dealer. The dealership installed heavy-duty-capable charging infrastructure onsite, and its service team has been fully trained and equipped to safely perform battery-electric truck maintenance and repairs. Manhattan Beer Distributors secured funding for the Volvo VNR Electrics from New York State’s Volkswagen settlement funds, through the New York City Department of Transportation’s NYC Clean Trucks Program. New York State’s Volkswagen settlement plan, Clean Transportation NY, was developed to reduce emissions in major transportation corridors, including Hunts Point, by funding zero-emission vehicles and equipment.

Border Patrol seizes more than $2 million in alleged cocaine from tractor-trailer

By The Trucker News Staff -

PHARR, Texas — Offers with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) office of field operations at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility found $2,007,700 in alleged cocaine hidden in a commercial vehicle last week. On Aug. 12, CBP officers at the cargo facility encountered a tractor-trailer entering the U.S. from Mexico. The truck was referred for inspection, which included nonintrusive imaging equipment and screenings by a K-9 team. After physically inspecting the trailer, agents discovered 96 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 260.36 pounds hidden in the trailer. “Our frontline CBP officers continue to remain vigilant and utilize inspections experience and technology and all of that came together perfectly as they intercepted this significant cocaine load,” said Carlos Rodriguez, director of the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. CBP officers seized the narcotics and the tractor-trailer. The case remains under investigation by agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations.

Trucking industry to be spotlighted at NASCAR events

By The Trucker News Staff -

The trucking industry will be front and center during the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Michigan International Speedway Saturday, Aug. 21, as well as at other NASCAR races during August and September. Trucking Moves America Forward (TMAF) will be a featured brand on the No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet, part of the JR Motorsports race team, during the Aug. 21 event. In addition, TMAF’s mascot, “Safety Sammy,” will be in the grandstands from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to greet fans before the race. Pilot Flying J has been a sponsor of JR Motorsports No. 1 for five consecutive years. The No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet is driven by Michael Annett. According to a statement from Pilot Co., Annett has a special place in his heart for the transportation industry. Because his father was chairman of TMC Transportation, Annett says he knows first-hand how important trucking is, and he can appreciate the challenges of being a “pro” behind the wheel. On Aug. 21, the car will feature the TMAF logo and the #ThankATrucker campaign social media hashtag to support education about the trucking industry and demonstrate support for America’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers. “Presenting the #ThankATrucker message on The Pilot Flying J Chevrolet is a new and exciting opportunity to spread the industry message of essentiality on a national stage,” said Kevin Burch, co-chairman of TMAF, former chair of the American Trucking Associations, and vice president of sales and governmental affairs at Martin Transportation Systems. “We thank Pilot Flying J, one of TMAF’s first and most steadfast financial supporters since our launch, for providing TMAF with the opportunity to expand our reach and show why it’s important to show gratitude for America’s truck drivers,” he said. Since TMAF’s inception in 2013, Pilot Flying J has contributed a total of $3 million to the organization. In addition, Wendy Hamilton, senior manager of operations and support for Pilot Co., serves as a TMAF board member. This year, Pilot Flying J is donating $150,000 to TMAF in addition to the in-kind sponsorship of the TMAF branded No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet. “The men and women of the trucking industry are heroes. They are the heartbeat of our supply chain, and we are thankful every day for their dedication to delivering the goods that we all depend on,” Hamilton said. “Pilot Flying J is grateful to TMAF for shining a light on the importance of professional drivers and the industry,” she continued. “We are proud to showcase how essential trucking is by bringing TMAF to the track on the No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet and hope it helps raise appreciation for all that professional drivers do to keep the country moving.” In addition to the race car wrap, two billboards, visible from both east- and westbound lanes of U.S. 12, will promote Safety Sammy’s appearance at the Aug. 21 event and the #TruckingIsEssential social media campaign. The Aug. 21 event is the first of five NASCAR races leading up to and including National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Sept. 12-18. Pilot Flying J’s No. 1 car will also feature a trucking industry-themed wrap during the following events: 28: Daytona International Speedway; 5: Darlington Raceway; 11: Richmond Raceway; and 18: Bristol Motor Speedway. Dale Earnhardt Jr., co-owner of JR Motorsports, two-time Xfinity Series champion and 15-time NASCAR most popular driver, and the Pilot Flying J team teamed up Aug. 17 to unveil a second trucking-themed wrap; this one will make its track debut Aug. 28 at the Daytona International Speedway. “At JR Motorsports, we know the importance and value of our nation’s truck drivers. Our drivers travel the country to NASCAR Xfinity Series events, and the trailers they carry allow us to do our job on the track each week,” Earnhardt said. “We join Pilot Flying J in thanking all the men and women who keep our country moving every day. Take the time today to #ThankATrucker.” Featured on the hood of the No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet is the saying, “If you’ve got it, a trucker brought it,” and #ThankATrucker is emblazoned across the rear of the car. During the unveiling event, Steve Vanderink, vice president of regional sales for Pilot Flying J, expressed his appreciation to the trucking industry and to the drivers who keep it rolling. “Pro drivers have carried us through this past year, delivering food, supplies and medicines around the country. They have been our heroes during the pandemic,” Vanderink said. “We hope this Driver Appreciation month will help raise awareness of their sacrifices and inspire all of us to celebrate what they do.”

Hyzon, TTSI to launch customer trial of hydrogen-powered electric truck

By The Trucker News Staff -

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A hydrogen fuel-cell powered heavy-duty truck developed by Hyzon Motors Inc. will soon hit the road in California, marking the tech developer’s first customer trial in the U.S. Hyzon has signed a trial agreement with Total Transport Services Inc. (TTSI), a port trucking company in Southern California, to provide a Class 8 heavy-duty fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) to TTSI for a 30-day trial during the fourth quarter of 2021. The truck, built on a 2022 Freightliner Cascadia chassis, is expected to have 600 peak horsepower and a range of up to 400 miles, according to a statement from Hyzon. The truck is expected to haul up to 82,000 pounds gross combined vehicle weight (GCVW), a standard load for TTSI, and will take advantage of the public heavy-duty hydrogen refueling station in Wilmington, California. The trial will mark TTSI’s first experience with a zero-emissions vehicle capable of 400 miles range. “Deploying the truck in real operations was a key requirement for us,” said Vic LaRosa, president of TTSI. “TTSI’s trucks run 18 to 20 hours each day, hauling heavy loads. Hyzon’s FCEVs provide the quick refueling and high performance necessary to meet these operational needs.” During the trial, TTSI plans to run a full load from Long Beach to Sacramento before exhibiting the vehicle at the NorCal Fleet Academy & Expo Oct. 6-7. Before arriving at TTSI, the Hyzon Class 8 fuel cell truck is expected to be part of the Ride & Drive at the ACTExpo Conference in Long Beach, California, Aug. 31 – Sept. 1. According to TTSI, between 13,000 and 14,000 trucks operate at the Long Beach port every year, emitting about 2,600 tons of CO2. “TTSI has led the way in contributing to California’s clean-air initiatives by implementing new technologies ahead of the curve,” said Craig Knight, CEO of Hyzon. “Their use case — high utilization, heavy loads, focused around a central location — is very common and is precisely what Hyzon has been fulfilling internationally. Through this trial, Hyzon and TTSI will demonstrate how zero-emissions trucking in the U.S. can be achieved in the near-term.” TTSI plans to eventually operate a 100% zero-emissions fleet. Originally a fully diesel fleet, TTSI has been transitioning to liquid natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG) and hybrid models.

Trailer orders continue downhill slide, preliminary reports show

By The Trucker News Staff -

While preliminary reports from both ACT Research and FTR show a continued downhill slide in net U.S. trailer orders, the lack of orders is not due to decreased demand — quite the opposite, in fact. As manufacturers continue to cope with materials shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, February’s polar vortex and other issues, the backlog of orders outweighs available units. Because of this, many OEMs are not accepting new orders. “Trailer orders remained low for the fourth consecutive month in July. The issue is certainly not demand related, as fleets remain bullish regarding equipment acquisition. With existing orderboards stretching through the end of Quarter 1, 2022 on average and well into Quarter 2, 2022 for dry vans and reefers, OEMs continue to limit order acceptance,” said Frank Maly, ACT’s director of commercial vehicle transportation analysis and research. Preliminary figures from ACT show trailer OEMs posted 7,100 net orders in July, roughly two-thirds of June’s volume and 63% less than the same month last year. “OEMs’ concerns regarding their supply chain, staffing availability, and pricing of components and materials are mainly responsible for the continued reluctance to accept further orders in the near-term, Maly said. “However, when the order season eventually opens, expect a surge of pent-up volume to flood in, likely resulting in a very significant commitment of available 2022 production capacity.” Analysts at FTR recorded orders of 8,200 units in July, down 32% from June and a 58% drop from July 2020. According to FTR, trailer orders for the past 12 months now total 354,000 units. “The orders are in for 2021 but the challenge remains to build the trailers,” said Don Ake, FTR’s vice president of commercial vehicles. “OEMs continue to struggle hiring factory workers. Suppliers are struggling to keep pace due to a shortage of manpower and imported parts and components. The supply chain is still experiencing disruptions and bottlenecks. Some improvement in production is expected this year, but there are indications some supplies will be restricted into next year.” FTR’s report described dry and refrigerated van orders as “paltry,” while noting that OEMs are booked full for 2021 and not entering orders yet for 2022. “Fleets are desperate for new dry vans to compensate for the shortage of new trucks and drivers in the current tight capacity environment,” Ake explained. “There is a growing amount of freight to be moved and the industry continues to struggle to deliver it on time. Spot loads and rates remain elevated.”

XPO Logistics drivers honored for reaching safety milestones

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREENWICH, Conn. — XPO Logistics is honoring 133 of its drivers for reaching accident-free milestones during the first half of 2021. Seven XPO drivers surpassed the 3 million mark: Gerardo Campos, Texas; Ina Daly, Arizona; Mark Klun, Arizona; John MacDonald, Canada; Kevin Moore, Ohio; Steven Sallee, Indiana; and Randall Siverling, Ohio. An additional 27 XPO drivers reached 2 million accident-free miles, and 99 drivers reached 1 million accident-free miles in the same period, bringing the total number of honorees to 133. All are employed by XPO’s North American LTL business unit. “Each time we enter the cab and get behind the wheel, safety is at the forefront of our minds,” said Ina Daly, who reached the 3 million accident-free mile mark. “This team focuses intently on the details. I’m extremely proud to join the ranks of my million-miler colleagues.” XPO tracks accident-free miles in its LTL network as part of Road to Zero, its comprehensive safety program. It takes approximately a decade of safe driving to achieve 1 million miles without an accident. In total, these drivers drove 174 million accident-free miles — the equivalent of two-and-a-half round trips from Earth to Mars. “We congratulate our driver honorees and the entire LTL team for embracing XPO’s culture of safety,” said Josephine Berisha, chief human resources officer for XPO Logistics. “Our commitment to investments in technology and training ensure that every mile driven for our customers is as safe and efficient as possible.”

Charges filed following kidnapping that ended in crash with semi

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. — Charges have been filed against an Indiana man who allegedly kidnapped a car salesman during a test drive Aug. 11. Indiana State Police (ISP) received a 911 call about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 11 from a salesman at Bosco Family Motors in Hobart, Indiana, who said he was being held against his will in a 2018 Kia Borrego that was traveling at excessive speeds on Interstate 80/94. While the caller was on the phone with 911 dispatch, the driver, later identified as LeDarien Devontae Deshon Gregory, 29, of Hammond, Indiana, crashed into the rear of a tractor-trailer. Following an investigation by ISP detectives, Gregory has been charged with four felonies, including two counts of kidnapping, and a Class C misdemeanor. Charges include: Kidnapping, Level 2 felony; Kidnapping, Level 3 felony; Auto Theft, Level 6 felony; Identity Deception, Level 6 felony; and Operating a Vehicle Without Ever Receiving a License, Class C misdemeanor. During the investigation, the ISP determined that Gregory allegedly provided false information to Bosco Family Motors to take a vehicle for what was believed to be a test drive. During that drive, the suspect accelerated to over 100 mph before rear-ending a semitruck. As a result of the crash, both the suspect and the victim, who was a salesman along for the test drive, were injured.

Arizona DOT reopens US 60 between Superior, Miami; advises caution in area

By The Trucker News Staff -

PHOENIX — A stretch of U.S. 60 between Superior, Arizona, and Miami, Arizona, has reopened to traffic, but officials recommend using an alternative route, if possible, while repairs continue. The highway was shut down Wednesday, Aug. 11 because of extensive storm damage. ADOT crews worked around the clock to make repairs Wednesday and Thursday, hauling in about 169 truckloads of rock to shore up the roadway. More than 2,000 cubic yards of boulders were placed along the roadway where it abuts the Bloody Tanks Wash west of Miami. In addition, crews have removed the damaged guardrail and cleared debris from drainage systems to reduce the risk of future flood damage. While both lanes of the highway are now open, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) encourages drivers to use extra caution when traveling the route because of the potential for future flooding due to an adjacent burn scar. ADOT also recommends avoiding travel when storms are passing through the area or at night. Motorists should plan for periodic lane restrictions and delays of 30 to 60 minutes in the coming weeks and months as ADOT makes longer-term repairs, including work on guardrail, pavement and drainage systems. When restrictions are in place, drivers should consider using State Routes 77 and 177 through Winkelman, a roughly 70-mile detour that includes a 10% grade and will significantly increase travel time. Also, drivers can use SR 87 and SR 188 as alternate routes.

Alleged kidnapping ends when car crashes into semi

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. — A used-car salesman got more than he bargained for when a test drive turned into a kidnapping that culminated in a crash with a tractor-trailer Wednesday afternoon, Aug. 11. About 4:30 p.m., the Indiana State Police (ISP) Lowell Regional Dispatch Center received a 911 from a passenger in a 2009 Kia Borrego traveling near the 10-mile marker on Interstate 80/94. The caller, a salesperson from Bosco Family Motors, a car dealership in Hobart, Indiana, said he was being held against his will in the vehicle, which had been taken for a test drive by the suspect. The suspect was reported to be driving at a high rate of speed and refusing to pull over to let the victim get out of the vehicle. While the victim was talking to 911 dispatchers, the driver of the Kia rear-ended a tractor-trailer at a high rate of speed. The impact resulted in the Kia catching on fire and the victim being partially trapped inside the vehicle. The victim was pulled to safety by passersby, and ISP troopers put out the vehicle fire. The alleged driver of the Kia, LaDarien D. Gregory, 29, of Hammond, Indiana, was found walking away from the scene. Both the Gregory and the victim were transported to Northlake Hospital in Gary, Indiana, for treatment. The driver of the semi was not injured. The victim was later flown to Loyola University Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The suspect has since been released and transported to the Lake County Jail, where he is being held on a probable cause hold for charges to be determined by the Lake County Prosecutor.

Border patrol makes historic seizure of drugs hidden in tractor-trailer

By The Trucker News Staff -

OTAY MESA, Calif. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility recently discovered nearly 3 tons of methamphetamine and fentanyl powder, valued at nearly $13 million, hidden in a commercial tractor-trailer. According to the CBP, this is the largest methamphetamine drug smuggling seizure along the southwest border to date. At 5:24 p.m. on Aug. 5, CBP officers stopped the driver of a tractor-trailer hauling a shipment of “plastic household articles.” During the initial inspection, the driver and shipment were referred for an intensive examination. When CBP officers screened the tractor-trailer using the port’s imaging system, they found anomalies in the trailer. Further examination, which included screening by a CBP K-9 team, revealed the presence of suspected narcotics. CBP officers searched the cargo and discovered a combination of 414 packages consisting of 5,528 pounds of suspected methamphetamine and 127 pounds of suspected fentanyl concealed within boxes. The total seizure weighed in at 2.8 tons and had an estimated value of $12,990,749. The 53-year-old Mexican male driver was arrested for the alleged narcotic smuggling attempt. CBP officers turned the driver over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. The driver was transported to the Metropolitan Correctional Center in San Diego and is facing federal charges. CBP officers seized the tractor, trailer and suspected narcotics. “This amount of fentanyl and methamphetamine is enough to ruin countless lives and fund transnational criminal organizations,” said Pete Flores, CBP director of field operations in San Diego. “I’m proud of our officers’ efforts at all Ports of Entry within the San Diego Field Office to intercept this and all smuggling attempts.”

I-70 through Colorado’s Glenwood Canyon to partially reopen Saturday

By The Trucker News Staff -

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — A stretch of Interstate 70 through Colorado’s Glenwood Canyon that has been shut down since July 29 because of mudslides is expected to reopen to limited traffic as early as Saturday afternoon, Aug. 14. The closure of the corridor, which is a heavily traveled freight route, has forced commercial drivers to detour north on I-80 through Wyoming. The announcement was made Aug. 11 by Colorado Gov. Jared Polis during a visit to the site, where he surveyed the damage caused by devastating mudslides in the surrounding area and observed the progress made to clean up and reopen the canyon route. “Clearing and ultimately re-opening the I-70 corridor through Glenwood Springs is our top transportation priority. This corridor plays a vital role in our state’s economy,” Polis said. “CDOT and state emergency operations have made tremendous progress in cleaning up and removing tons of mud and debris that have completely blocked off access to this roadway,” he said. “As the state recovers from this incident and reopens this corridor Saturday afternoon, we will continue to need strong federal partners in the Biden administration and our federal delegation.” Polis was joined by Shoshana Lew, Director of the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and state officials. According to an Aug. 11 statement released by CDOT, there is “There is extensive work to be accomplished over the next four days” for the route to partially re-open this weekend. The July 29 mudslides stranded more than 100 people in their vehicles overnight and caused extensive damage. Following the mudslides, Polis issued two executive orders authorizing a disaster declaration because of the vital role the I-70 corridor plays in the nation’s transportation system. On Aug. 9, Polis appealed to the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide $116 million in aid through the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Emergency Relief program to support the recovery response. The state requested that 10% of the total funding request ($11.6 million) to be issued through an expedited process. The request for emergency relief calls for the following: $50 million for a Future Resiliency & Redundancy Study to help prevent similar events in the future; $20 million to cover damage caused by the event or debris removal hauling costs; $20 million for assumed damage repair estimates (nonvisible); $10 million to mitigate impacts to existing state highway alternate routes as a result of the I-70 closure; $5 million for potential geohazard mitigation at several locations; $5 million to cover construction management and construction engineering costs; $4 million for debris removal costs, including maintenance staff costs; $1 million for supplemental traffic control services (contractor) costs; and $1 million for CDOT administration (non-maintenance staff) costs. “The ongoing vulnerability due to the severe erosion described above will likely require improvements to diversion routes such as Cottonwood Pass to be able to withstand heavier traffic in the future while providing resiliency,” the letter continues. “Prior estimates concluded that improvements to Cottonwood Pass are upwards of $50 million of which has been carried forward in the estimates below, subject to further assessment which could increase this number.” For updates on Colorado’s I-70 corridor or information about alternative routes, click here.

Kenworth, Cummins partner to offer low-emission natural gas engine on Next Gen T680

By The Trucker News Staff -

KIRKLAND, Wash. — The Kenworth T680 Next Generation tractor is now available with the Cummins Westport ISX12N near-zero emission natural gas engine. The T680 Next Gen offers the 12-liter Cummins Westport ISX12N, which has ratings up to 400 horsepower and 1,450 lb-ft of torque. The engine can operate on compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and renewable natural gas (RNG). The ISX12N engine features a closed crankcase ventilation system, a maintenance-free three-way catalyst, on-board diagnostic capability and engine control module with excellent durability. The ISX12N engine is certified by both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB). The engine meets CARB’s optional low NOx standard of 0.02 g/bhp-hr. “The Cummins Westport ISX12N provides an excellent, near-zero emissions solution for fleets and truck operators that order the Kenworth T680 Next Generation for service in line haul, pickup and delivery, and regional haul applications,” said Genevieve Bekkerus, Kenworth marketing director. Available in day cab, 40-inch, 52-inch and 76-inch sleeper configurations, the T680 Next Gen is standard with the proprietary PACCAR Powertrain featuring the 2021 PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission and PACCAR DX-40 drive axle.