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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

US Border Patrol agents discover nearly 150 people locked in commercial tractor-trailer

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 35 checkpoint north of Laredo, Texas, last week stopped a human-smuggling attempt involving a commercial truck. The incident occurred April 16, when a commercial tractor-trailer, driven by a U.S. citizen, approached the checkpoint. A nonintrusive scan of the trailer revealed multiple anomalies. Agents opened the sealed cargo area of the tractor-trailer and discovered a total of 149 undocumented individuals locked inside. None were wearing personal protective equipment (PPE); all were medically screened and provided PPE. The undocumented individuals were determined to be in the U.S. illegally from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Venezuela, El Salvador, Peru and Ecuador. All 149 people, along with the truck driver, were all placed under arrest pending further investigation by Special Agents of Homeland Security Investigations. The U.S. Border Patrol seized both the tractor and trailer.

Shell Lubricants’ Starship 2.0 will hit the highway in May to demonstrate fuel-efficient tech

By The Trucker News Staff -

HOUSTON — In May, Shell Lubricants will launch Starship 2.0, a hyper-fuel efficient tractor-trailer, to demonstrate how Class 8 truck sector energy usage can be reduced by harnessing available energy efficient technologies to accelerate toward a carbon neutral future. Shell Lubricants is building on the lessons learned from the initial Shell Starship program launched in 2018. Shell Starship 2.0 is a new truck, featuring a new chassis and drivetrain, along with updated safety and fuel-efficient upgrades. “Shell Starship 2.0 will feature technologies that have advanced since its inception and is built to stimulate discussion and drive the conversation around trucking efficiency and carbon reduction,” said Jeff Priborsky, global marketing manager of the on-highway fleet sector for Shell Lubricants. “We have taken a number of technologies and have drawn them together in a single design with a holistic, connected approach that is crafted to optimize performance and efficiency.” Freight ton efficiency will be used as the primary measure because it is the most relevant measure of energy expenditure, according to Shell Lubricants. Shell will use this as the primary metric to advance conversations aimed at reducing the road transport industry’s carbon emissions. Freight ton efficiency is a more relevant statistic for judging the energy intensity associated with moving cargo from Point A to Point B because it combines the weight of cargo being moved with the amount of fuel consumed. Shell Starship 2.0 is expected to carry a 40,000-pound payload — higher than the 30,000 pounds the truck carried in 2018, when it attained 178.4 ton-miles per gallon for freight ton efficiency, a nearly 248% improvement over the North America average freight ton efficiency of 72 ton-miles per gallon for trucks. In addition, the first Shell Starship achieved 8.94 miles per gallon on its 2018 run, a significant increase from the U.S. Class 8 average of 6.4 miles per gallon. The Shell team is looking to improve the 2018 figure with the new Starship. Shell Starship 2.0 conducted regional testing earlier this year as it prepared for its coast-to-coast drive, which will again begin in San Diego, California, and end in Jacksonville, Florida. The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) will monitor and verify the results of the Starship 2.0’s journey. “The ability to test Shell Starship 2.0 under different road and operating conditions is a great benefit as we prepare for the cross-country journey,” said Robert Mainwaring, technology manager for innovation at Shell Lubricants. “With many updates to the truck, it has given us the opportunity to make sure the new drivetrain and the efficient technologies built into the truck are all operating in concert with each other.” Shell Lubricant Solutions has produced a short video to preview how Shell Starship 2.0 will help take Class 8 truck efficiency to the next level through advanced innovative technologies, hyper aerodynamic design, fuel saving technology and advanced lubricants. Results will be shared following the completion of the journey. Additional details will be announced about updates to Shell Starship 2.0 shortly. For more information about the Shell Starship 2.0, click here.

DAT Truckload Volume Index shows spot van, reefer rates set records

By The Trucker News Staff -

BEAVERTON, Ore. — Spot truckload van and refrigerated freight rates hit all-time highs in March, according to DAT Freight & Analytics. Demand for flatbed transportation, driven by strong construction and manufacturing activity, also soared into record territory. The total number of loads posted on the DAT network increased 22.3% month over month, while the number of available trucks was up 30.9%, indicating a return of traffic after being disrupted by winter storms in February. The DAT Truckload Volume Index, a measure of dry van, refrigerated (reefer) and flatbed loads moved by truckload carriers, was up 31% in March to the highest level since the index was rebalanced in January 2015. The previous high was September 2020, when shippers were positioning freight for holiday shopping. “The strength of truckload freight relative to the amount of capacity available in the market, combined with the willingness of shippers to pay high rates, indicates an urgency from businesses to fill orders and meet delivery schedules after a difficult February,” said Ken Adamo, chief of analytics at DAT. “All three equipment types that make up our Truckload Volume Index showed extraordinary growth at a time when capacity is tight and truckload prices are up.” Van and reefer rates hit highs The national average spot truckload van rate was $2.67 a mile, up 13 cents compared to February and almost 30 cents higher than the previous monthly average high in December 2020. The national average spot reefer rate was $2.95 per mile, up 25 cents compared to February and 20 cents higher than the monthly average contract rate. The national average reefer load-to-truck ratio was 12.2, down from 15.9 in February, meaning there were 12.2 reefer loads on the DAT network for every available truck. The van load-to-truck ratio averaged 5.8, down from 7.5 in February, with high ratios in February being exacerbated by the severe winter weather that impacted much of the country. Construction drives flatbed demand  Spot flatbed truckload rates and load-to-truck ratios are at their highest points since the mid-2018. The national average flatbed load-to-truck ratio was 83.7% in March, and spot flatbed volumes increased 34% compared to February on the strength of improved manufacturing output, a booming single-family housing market, and seasonal construction activity. The national average spot flatbed rate was $2.78 per mile, 20 cents higher than February. DAT freight outlook The national average contract van rate was $2.60 a mile in March, 7 cents less than the average spot van rate. The contract reefer rate was $2.75 a mile, 20 cents less than the spot reefer rate. When spot rates exceed contract rates, truckload carriers typically shift capacity to the spot market, creating uncertainty for shippers. According to DAT analysts, year-over-year comparisons of truckload rates and volumes are now less relevant, given the effects of the pandemic on supply chains. The impact of federal stimulus checks; an accumulation in household savings; component shortages in manufacturing; constraints and surcharges in intermodal networks; low inventories; and other supply chain disruptions at ports, canals and elsewhere could push the cresting of contract van and reefer rates into late in the second quarter of 2021. A shortage of semiconductors and other components may delay production and delivery of heavy- and medium-duty trucks ordered in the fourth quarter of 2020 until late 2021 or early 2022, which would affect capacity. The March blockage of Egypt’s Suez Canal is expected to have a negligible impact on U.S. supply chains compared to backlogs processing containers at U.S. West Coast ports. Congestion at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California, persisted as imports surged in March, as shown by the number of anchored vessels waiting to be offloaded, in addition to tight drayage and intermodal capacity coming off the ports.

Virginia trucker charged after missing teen found in sleeper compartment

By The Trucker News Staff -

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — David Romero Reyes, 50, of Stafford, Virginia, appeared April 19 in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, on a criminal complaint charging him with transportation of a minor with intent to engage in sexual activity and was ordered detained, according to Acting United States Attorney Richard B. Myrus, Newport Naval Station Police Chief Lieutenant Ruben Gutierrez, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Joseph R. Bonavolonta, and Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police Colonel James M. Manni. Reyes has been in state custody since April 2, when a routine background check conducted prior to being allowed entry to the Naval Station at Newport, Rhode Island, determined that he was wanted in Texas for felony assault of a child. During the investigation, the Naval Station Newport Police discovered a 15-year-old girl in the sleeping compartment of the tractor-trailer. The girl was reported missing from her Virginia home in July 2020, when she was 14 years old. The girl entered the United States as an unaccompanied minor in February 2020. She was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and placed in a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) facility. HHS documents found in the truck indicate that in May 2020 she was removed from a Houston, Texas, HHS-funded facility by Reyes, who, according to HHS documents, identified himself as the girl’s distant relative. An FBI and Rhode Island State Police investigation determined that Reyes, a longtime friend of the girl’s father, who lives in El Salvador, is a distant cousin of the girl. According to court documents, the girl lived in the Houston area with her mother and other relatives for several weeks after leaving the immigration detention center before leaving Texas to travel to Virginia with Reyes, where she began living with a relative of Reyes. When a family member discovered that Reyes and the girl allegedly had a sexual relationship, the family member reported Reyes to law enforcement. Shortly thereafter, in July 2020, the girl left the home on a bicycle and was picked up nearby by Reyes. She was reported missing and had not been seen since. According to court documents, during the week the two travelled together in trucks driven by Reyes during the week, and stayed at hotels or an apartment rented by Reyes on weekends. According to court documents, during interviews with law enforcement, Reyes and the now 15-year-old admitted to traveling together and engaging in sexual contact in multiple states. Investigators determined that Reyes, using the name David Romero, traveled in or through Rhode Island on at least six dates between Feb. 1, 2021, and April 2,2021, the date of his arrest. Transportation of a minor with intent to engage in sexual activity is punishable by statutory penalties of 10 years to life imprisonment and lifetime federal supervised release. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.featuredfea

Oregon DOT plans $32 million seismic makeover for 7 bridges along US 97

By The Trucker News Staff -

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Seven bridges in the Klamath Falls, Oregon, area will be the focus of a $32 million retrofitting project that will begin this year and continue for the next four years, according to a statement released by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). It’s all part of a seismic resiliency plan spearheaded by the State of Oregon and funded by the federal government. The bridges are located on U.S. 97, which is a primary north-south highway and “lifeline route” in the event of a major earthquake. Because of its inland location, U.S. 97 is expected to fare better than the other primary north-south routes along Interstate 5 and U.S. 101, which are projected to be badly damaged or completely destroyed in the wake of a Cascadia subduction event. The State of Oregon has identified the bridges as the most vulnerable to a magnitude 8.0 or greater earthquake —the impact magnitude scientists expect when a Cascadia subduction event next occurs off the Oregon coast. The project includes the following bridges: U.S. 97 over UPRR (Lobert Bridge); U.S. 97 over Lakeport Blvd & UPRR (Pelican City Bridge); U.S. 97 over Nevada Ave; U.S. 97 over USBOR Canal; U.S. 97 over Link River (Link River Bridge); U.S. 97 over OR140 (Greensprings Interchange); and U.S. 97 over Klamath River. Geologists believe tectonic plates off the Oregon coast shift about every 300 years, causing a massive earthquake and tsunami. It has now been 321 years since Cascadia last struck, meaning it is now overdue. Additionally, the Klamath Falls has localized earthquakes, as evidenced by the Scotts Mill and Klamath Falls earthquakes in 1993. Six of the project bridges will be retrofitted and another, which carries U.S.97 over Lakeport Blvd. and UP Railroad, will be completely replaced. U.S.97 will be the first primary route to achieve its resiliency goal with the completion of the south U.S. 97 bridge bundle. A similar group was completed last year on the north end of U.S. 97 just south of Biggs Junction. The work on the Klamath Falls bridges will be performed by a contractor who will be selected this summer by competitive bid, with bridge work starting after that and continuing for the next four years. For more information, visit ODOT’s project website.

Yellow Corp. honors 2020 safety million-milers

By The Trucker News Staff -

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Yellow is proud to honor its drivers who achieved the safety milestone of driving at least 3,000,000 miles without a single preventable accident in 2020. Yellow drivers who attained the 5-million-mile safety milestone include: George Brown – Memphis, Tennessee. Horace Crouch – Dallas, Texas. James Banner – Chicago, Illinois. Robert Herber – Jackson, Mississippi. Yellow drivers who reached the 4-million-mile safety milestone are Keith Fielding of Dayton, Ohio and William Trimble of Rockford, Illinois. Yellow drivers who reached the 3 million-mile safety milestone are: Alan Emerick – Youngstown, Ohio. Cecil Desnoes – Buffalo, New York. Chris Young – Memphis, Tennessee. David Clifton – Charlotte, North Carolina. David Miller – St. Paul, Minnesota. Donnie Hires – Atlanta, Georgia. Dwayne Easter – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Gary McGowan – Memphis, Tennessee. Gary Slone – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. George Sharp – Dallas, Texas. Ivan Amor – Indianapolis, Indiana. Jackie Allison – Charlotte, North Carolina. James Hedgecock – Oklahoma City, OK James Hedges – Joliet, Illinois James Woodard – Memphis, Tennessee. Jeffry A. Rouse – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Kent Stevens – Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael Repman – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Michael Tebow – Kansas City, Missouri. Nathan Brannock – Charlotte, North Carolina. Randy Bath – Denver, Colorado. Ray Ackermann – Saint Louis, Missouri. Richard Kokeny – Buffalo, New York. Richard Perea – Dallas, Texas. Richard Scholl – Akron, Ohio. Robert Cockerham – Evansville, Indiana. Ronald Harris – Charlotte, North Carolina. Ronnie Sanders – Raleigh, North Carolina. Samuel Turner – Phoenix, Arizona. Terrence P. Oswald – Cincinnati, Ohio. Terry Goetting – Saint Louis, Missouri. Terry Myers – Saint Louis, Missouri. William Brown – Albuquerque, New Mexico. “Many thanks to our drivers for their unmatched professionalism and vigilance in their jobs as they achieve these remarkable million-mile milestones,” said CEO Darren Hawkins. “We have the best drivers in the industry, and I could not be prouder of their continued dedication toward safety and service.” Since 2008, more than 230 Yellow drivers have achieved a safe driving milestone of 3,000,000 miles or more. In the past decade, five drivers have had the distinction of achieving 5,000,000 safe driving miles, approximately the same distance as 11 trips to the moon and back. “Yellow companies prioritize safety, as it’s truly the focus of how we operate on a day-to-day basis across all job functions,” said Tamara Jalving, vice president of safety. “Working together, we identify and control exposure to champion safety in all we do. Thank you to our incredible million miler drivers, and congratulations on achieving this outstanding safety achievement.”

Ohio DOT to invest nearly $2 billion to improve infrastructure

By The Trucker News Staff -

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is gearing up for another construction season with a $1.92 billion investment into 956 projects to improve transportation across the state. The 2021 construction program includes improvements to 876 bridges and 4,596 miles of pavement. Ninety-six cents of every dollar invested will go toward the safety of existing roads and bridges. “Ohio’s ability to safely and easily move people and goods is vital as we continue to recover from the global pandemic,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. “As ODOT begins the 2021 construction season, there are many infrastructure projects throughout the state that will improve safety for motorists. We also need motorists to pay attention and not drive distracted, and to slow down in construction zones.” An increase in the state motor fuel tax that went into effect on July 1, 2019, has allowed ODOT to keep maintenance and safety projects on a schedule, despite a 15.5% drop in traffic volume last year. “Thanks to the foresight of Gov. DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly and internal operational savings identified by our workforce, we have been able to weather this global pandemic. Without those extra funds, we would be nearly a billion dollars in the red,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks. “While other states have been delaying or cancelling projects, Ohio continues moving forward.” Safety remains the top priority, with a total of 266 safety projects included in this year’s construction program. Of those, 131 projects are funded through the ODOT Highway Safety Improvement Program, a total investment of $178 million. A portion of these funds will go to local municipalities, townships, and counties to make safety improvements on roads they maintain. “Sadly, traffic deaths continued to climb last year, even with fewer vehicles on our roads,” Marchbanks said. “We must continue to prioritize projects that make our roads safer for everyone who uses them.” Funding will also help target more than 150 intersections prioritized by Gov. DeWine in early 2019. These projects include simple adjustments like changing signage and striping to more complex solutions like the full reconstruction of an intersection. To date, 36 locations have been completed, 43 are under or will soon begin construction this year, 101 are under design, and 4 are still being studied. These safety improvements will no doubt save lives. “We engineer our roads to be as safe as possible, but we need motorists to do their part by obeying speed limits, paying attention, buckling up, and driving sober. Please pay attention to the traffic and roads, not your phones,” said Marchbanks. With increased construction throughout the state, it’s more important than ever that motorists follow Ohio’s “move over law.” The law requires drivers to move over for any roadside vehicles with flashing lights. If they cannot move over, they must slow down. “Drivers should always pay attention, but work zones require extra attention. Just like you, these workers want to go home at the end of the day,” Marchbanks said. There were 4,536 work zone crashes in Ohio last year. Of those, 18 crashes were fatal and 96 resulted in serious injuries. ODOT will continue to work with the Ohio State Highway Patrol for targeting enforcement of traffic laws in work zones. Last year, ODOT crews were struck 125 times while on the job. In 2021, ODOT crews have been hit 52 times. A total of 162 ODOT workers have been killed while working to improve Ohio’s roadways.

Roadmaster to open new Mississippi training facility in effort to supply local driving demand

By The Trucker News Staff -

JACKSON, Miss. — Like other states, Mississippi suffered a population decline in 2020, losing a net of 11,000 residents. On the employment front, despite a slight recovery from economic losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the latest federal employment report shows that Mississippi lost 7,000 jobs in January. According to Brad Ball, president of the Roadmaster Drivers School, these declines mask a challenge: a national shortage of professional truck drivers. “There are people who need jobs, and jobs who need people,” said Ball. The longstanding national truck driver shortage has recently worsened. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show a shortfall of 65,700 drivers for 2020, compared with 2019. Meanwhile, e-commerce, driven by mandated stay-at-home orders, continue to skyrocket, increasing 44% in the U.S. in 2020. E-commerce growth is dependent on matching growth in retail logistics and delivery capability, requiring steadily increasing numbers of truckers. On the local level, more than 85% of communities in Mississippi rely exclusively on trucks for the delivery of everyday goods. The state’s professional truck drivers travel more than 4.5 billion miles per year to deliver everything Mississippians communities rely on, including food, medication, clothing, and gasoline for their cars. A career in trucking does not require college training. Applicants can either produce a high school diploma or pass a basic entrance exam. Unlike other opportunities for high-school graduates, such as fast food or retail, trucking offers secure employment, higher income and a career path, Ball said. According to Ball, trucking is an increasingly diverse industry and one with no pay gap tied to race or gender. A recent American Trucking Association study shows that over 40% of U.S. truckers are now minorities. Training is about four weeks from beginning to end. In comparison to other educational opportunities, truck driver training is less expensive. Ball said that the demand for new drivers is such that many trucking firms will reimburse students for tuition once hired. A new Roadmaster Drivers School is set to open in May to address these concerns. City officials, prospective students, and the general public are invited to the opening of the new Roadmaster Drivers School facility at 1500 West Highland Drive, Jackson, MS 39204. The opening will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, May 14 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 15. “Trucking is the opportunity on wheels for thousands of soon-to-be-hired truck drivers,” Ball said.

Nikola, RIG360 partner to provide service network for electric Class 8 trucks

By The Trucker News Staff -

PHOENIX — Nikola, a designer and manufacturer of heavy-duty commercial battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and energy infrastructure solutions, in early April announced its first step in establishing a nationwide plan for its Class 8 truck sales and service coverage. Nikola, in partnership with RIG360 Service Network, a network of heavy-duty truck service and maintenance centers, plans to provide sales and service products for commercial customers at more than 65 RIG360 locations in the United States. In addition to providing service and maintenance for Nikola’s Class 8 trucks, this dealer association is intended to provide customers with a sales and distribution channel for Nikola BEV and FCEV vehicles and ancillary products and services “RIG360 is a premier network of dealers that are committed to the highest levels of service support,” said Pablo Koziner, president of energy and commercial for Nikola. “These dealers will provide Nikola customers with market leading sales and service while helping them maximize operational efficiencies and vehicle uptime. We expect this association to play an integral part in advancing Nikola’s zero-emission vehicle sales and overall industry adoption by providing assurance in reliability and support over the life of our products.” The RIG360 network consists of seven individual dealerships that average more than 75 years of providing customer support and maintenance. This dealer network includes Blanchard Machinery, Cleveland Brothers, Foley Equipment, MacAllister Machinery, Thompson Machinery, Thompson Tractor and Yancey Bros. Co. “RIG360 was founded based on the belief that the experience and expertise of our people and network could serve our customers at the highest levels for all their fleet needs,” said DeWitt Thompson, CEO of Thompson Machinery and Nikola board member. Nikola and RIG360 expect to finalize distribution plans and agreements in the coming months in order to fully support customers in the sale and service of the Nikola Tre BEV, which will be launched later this year. “We are very proud and excited to partner with Nikola and their innovative portfolio of products and services,” said Jon Robinson, RIG360 board chair. “RIG360 has always put exceptional, quality service at our core, and adding Nikola to our portfolio will allow us to continue to serve our customers.”

Love’s opens new location with 109 truck parking spaces in Mobile, Alabama

By The Trucker News Staff -

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s Travel Stops opened a new location in Mobile, Alabama on April 15. Located off Interstate 10, the store brings 109 truck parking spaces as well as 90 jobs to Mobile County. “We’re excited to open our 17th location in Alabama and add another stop for customers on the Gulf Coast,” said Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s. “Our team members will help get professional drivers and four-wheel customers back on the road quickly and safely while providing a good value at competitive prices.” This location is open 24/7 and offers many amenities, including: More than 15,000 square feet Bojangles 109 truck parking spaces 92 car parking spaces Eight RV parking spaces Nine diesel bays Seven showers Laundry facilities Speedco Bean-to-cup gourmet coffee Brand-name snacks Fresh Kitchen concept Mobile to Go Zone with the latest GPS, headsets and smartphone accessories CAT scale Dog park In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to the Foundation of the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office.

Attracted by high rates, truckers shift to the spot market

By The Trucker News Staff -

With truckload rates at historic highs, more carriers made their equipment available on the spot market last week, according to DAT Freight and Analytics, which operates the industry’s largest load board network. The total number of loads posted to the DAT marketplace jumped 4.7% during the week ending April 11 but the number of available trucks on the network was up 5.3%. Balanced growth in the number of loads and posted capacity kept spot truckload van and refrigerated truckload rates in check last week. At 5.3, the national average van load-to-truck ratio was unchanged from the previous week, meaning there were 5.3 available loads for every available truck. The reefer load-to-truck ratio slipped from 11.5 to 10.6 while the flatbed ratio fell from 96.2 to 94.7 last week but capacity remains tight. National Average Spot Rates, April Van: $2.66 per mile, 1 cent higher than the March average Flatbed: $2.88 per mile, 12 cents higher than March Refrigerated: $2.97 per mile, 3 cents higher than March These are national average spot truckload rates for the month through April 11 and include a calculated fuel surcharge. The national average price of diesel was unchanged at $3.14 a gallon compared to the previous week. Van volumes dip on top 100 lanes: The average spot rate increased on 50 of DAT’s top 100 lanes for van freight and was neutral on 19 lanes as the number of loads moved on those 100 lanes fell 4.6% week over week. Van lanes to watch: Los Angeles to Stockton averaged $3.79 a mile, up 11 cents over the previous week. In Los Angeles, capacity remains tight due to high volumes from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Van freight from Los Angeles increased 6 cents to an average of $3.38 a mile. Reefer volumes slide on major lanes: The number of loads moved on DAT’s top 72 reefer lanes by volume declined 2.5% compared to the previous week, although the average spot rate edged higher on 38 of those lanes and was neutral on 13. Florida reefer demand rising: Refrigerated equipment is in high demand in Florida. Miami outbound reefer loads averaged $2.86 a mile, up 15 cents compared to the previous week, while Lakeland averaged $2.59 a mile, a 16-cent increase. Ontario, California, remained a hotbed for outbound loads, with Ontario to Phoenix up 20 cents to an average of $4.49 a mile and Ontario-Stockton up 14 cents to $3.88 a mile. Flatbed volumes level off but capacity stayed tight: The average spot rate increased on 48 of DAT’s top 78 flatbed lanes by volume last week. Twenty lanes were neutral and 10 lanes declined. Flatbed capacity is especially tight in the U.S. southeast on the strength of construction, manufacturing and agriculture. Four of the top five flatbed lanes by volume originated in Texas last week. The country’s high-volume lane last week was Houston to Fort Worth, averaging $2.87 a mile, up 4 cents week over week. The return leg averaged $2.56 a mile.

MVTS reports ‘significant’ fuel savings after testing FlowBelow aerodynamic products

By The Trucker News Staff -

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Mesilla Valley Transportation Solutions (MVTS) recently tested FlowBelow tractor and trailer wheel covers and the Tractor AeroKit and reported that each of these technologies provide significant fuel savings. “Our parent company fleet has acquired hundreds of millions of miles with the Tractor AeroKit and wheel covers,” said Daryl Bear, lead engineer and chief operating officer of MVTS. “This is the first time we at MVT Solutions have tested the wheel covers separately, and the savings proved to be very appealing.” MVTS conducted sequential tests on the FlowBelow technologies, starting with the trailer wheel covers, followed by the tractor wheel covers and last, the Tractor AeroKit. Testing was conducted at 65 mph using 2018 Freightliner Cascadia day cab models hauling 48-foot refrigerated trailers, with a gross vehicle weight of 72,000 pounds. The certified test results showed marked fuel savings for each of the FlowBelow technologies. The FlowBelow tractor wheel covers showed a savings of 1.38 gallons/1,000 miles (0.93%); the trailer wheel covers had a savings of 1.23 gallons/1,000 miles (0.81%); and the Tractor AeroKit resulted in a fuel savings of 3.16 gallons/1,000 miles (2.13%). “The trucking industry has traditionally underestimated the benefit of aerodynamic wheel covers due to their fuel savings being difficult to measure with other test methods or in-service testing,” Bear said. “However, the savings are very real, and the return on investment (ROI) is often quite fast, especially on the tractor that is not affected by the trailer-to-tractor ratio.” MVTS calculated that the use of FlowBelow’s tractor wheel covers would result in 173 gallons of fuel saved annually, which would equal $529 in fuel savings each year. The fuel savings for the trailer wheel covers equated to 154 gallons annually, calculating to $470 saved in fuel costs. FlowBelow’s AeroKit showed even more significant fuel savings, resulting in 395 gallons and $1,207 saved annually. Calculations were based on 125,000 miles travelled annually and an average diesel fuel price of $3.056 per gallon. To review full versions of MVTS’s FlowBelow test reports, click here.

Coyote Logistics carriers now have instant access to parking reservations through TruckPark

By The Trucker News Staff -

CHICAGO — Coyote Logistics, a global third-party logistics provider that serves more than 15,000 shippers around the world, announced April 15 that it is adding a new service, powered by TruckPark, that will allow drivers to easily access convenient, reservable parking spaces around the United States. According to a prepared statement from Coyote Logistics, the integration is part of the company’s commitment to offering superior experiences and value-added services to its network carriers and provide a more seamless experience for carriers on the road. Coyote network carriers can now access TruckPark’s network of parking locations and reserve spaces through the CoyoteGO digital freight platform. TruckPark offers 537 locations around the country with a total of nearly 50,000 reservable spaces. “Sourcing trailer parking has been a long-standing complexity and source of frustration for carriers, which has been exacerbated by changes in demand caused by COVID-19. Shippers rely on Coyote’s reliable capacity to move their freight, and carriers rely on us to make that process simple,” said Pat Campbell, U.S. chief operating officer for Coyote. “We’re collaborating with TruckPark to help solve this problem by offering easy access to parking spaces around the country. By helping streamline this process for drivers, they can focus on making deliveries instead of searching for places to stop.” In addition to a vast network of parking options, through Coyote’s relationship with TruckPark, carriers can also get discounted rates, offering even more value to drivers. “Our goal is to offer safe, secure and easily accessible fleet parking solutions to truck drivers. Partnering with Coyote will allow us to support their efforts to create a more seamless carrier experience, while enabling us to serve even more customers,” said Anthony Petitte, CEO of TruckPark. “Coyote shares our commitment to making truck drivers’ lives easier and less stressful, and we’re excited to take a unified approach to help make that happen.”

Embark launches partner development program to bring autonomous driver tech to market

By The Trucker News Staff -

SAN FRANCISCO — Embark, a developer of autonomous technology for the trucking industry, has launched a partner development program with motor carriers Werner Enterprises, Mesilla Valley Transportation and Bison Transport. These partnerships will help Embark develop autonomous trucking technology that will improve speed and reliability for customers, as well as safety and work-flexibility for professional truck drivers. Through this program, Embark plans to refine and scale the software and support services necessary to enable carriers to operate OEM trucks, equipped with Embark’s technology, on select U.S. freight lanes. At the core of Embark’s product offering is the Embark Driver, a per-mile software license that the company says can safely navigate a carrier-owned, Embark-equipped OEM truck from its origin to its destination. In addition, Embark will provide carriers with an autonomous fleet management solution, Embark Guardian, to provide remote vehicle monitoring, dispatching and access to real-time data such as weather and construction. Together, Embark Driver and Embark Guardian will enable carriers to deploy and manage a fleet of autonomous trucks within their existing networks. “Embark’s commitment to having carriers purchase and operate our autonomous trucks, while Embark provides a software subscription and support services, is a win-win because it leverages the logistical expertise of the carrier, allows the technology to scale more quickly through existing shipper-carrier relationships and enables Embark to focus on delivering a safe and reliable autonomous truck,” said Alex Rodrigues, co-founder and CEO of Embark. ‘The learnings Embark has gained from hundreds of hauls with shippers and carriers over the years has helped us shape this new business model, and we are excited to announce it today.” As part of the program, carriers will work alongside Embark to test and refine various facets of the technology’s overall operating model, including remote vehicle monitoring, vehicle maintenance procedures, teleoperations, AV dispatching rules and transfer hub logistics. “While Werner has always been a first mover in the transportation industry, we continue to invest in new technology and solutions that enrich the experience for drivers, shippers, and carriers, while optimizing the entire ecosystem,” said Derek Leathers, vice chairman and CEO of Werner. “By working with Embark, we amplify the voice of our drivers and our customers, allowing them to be an important part of the conversation around the innovation that impacts the future of our industry.” Anheuser-Busch InBev, commonly known as AB InBev, and several other Fortune 500 shippers from across key industry verticals have also joined Embark’s partner development program to advise on the integration and scaling of autonomous trucks within their supply chain networks. In addition to preparing carriers to operate autonomous trucks, the program is engaging OEMs, real estate developers, and maintenance providers to coordinate the products and services carriers will need to operate a nationwide network of autonomous freight lanes. As the Embark Partner Development Program progresses, Embark plans to bring additional carriers, shippers, and freight ecosystem partners into the program.

Meera Joshi named as Biden’s pick for top spot at FMCSA

By The Trucker News Staff -

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on April 14 officially announced plans to nominate Meera Joshi as administrator of the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Joshi has served as the agency’s deputy administrator and senior official since January 20. Joshi, an attorney, has more than 16 years of experience in leading government oversight agencies. She served as chair and CEO of the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission, the nation’s largest for-hire transportation regulator. While there, she spearheaded novel Vision Zero campaigns using data tools to keep high-risk drivers and unsafe vehicles off the road. She also led landmark policy, including establishing robust open transportation data standards for app-based providers; enacting the nation’s first for-hire driver pay protection program; and providing broad access to for-hire transportation for passengers who use wheelchairs. Before entering the field of transportation regulation, Joshi was the inspector general for New York City’s Department of Corrections, where she was responsible for the investigation of corruption and criminality at all levels of New York City’s jail operations. Joshi also served as the first deputy executive director of New York City’s Civilian Complaint Review Board, leading investigations of police misconduct. In addition to her government positions, Joshi has served as general manager for the New York office of Sam Schwartz Transportation Consultants, and was a visiting scholar at New York University’s Rudin Center for Transportation Policy. Joshi was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She holds a bachelor of arts degree and a juris doctor degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

Love’s Truck Care, Speedco offering half-price DOT inspections, free tire checks to help drivers prep for International Roadcheck

By The Trucker News Staff -

OKLAHOMA CITY — From April 26 through May 6, professional drivers can receive free TirePass inspections and half-price Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections at more than 350 Loves, Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations. During this time, drivers can also get a complimentary visual inspection with the purchase of any truck care service. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco are offering these specials to help drivers prepare for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) 2021 International Roadcheck. “We know that time is important to professional truck drivers, so by having the TirePass inspection completed while they fuel up, they can save time and be prepared for this year’s CVSA Roadcheck,” said Gary Price, executive vice president of truck care for Love’s. The CVSA International Roadcheck will take place May 4-6. Inspectors will be out across North America inspecting commercial motor vehicles and drivers. The Roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world, with nearly 15 trucks or buses inspected every minute across North America. The focus of this year’s Roadcheck is on hours of service and lighting. Tire-related issues tend to be at the top of the list for placing drivers out of service. Using Love’s TirePass, a tire-inflation and assessment service, can ensure potential tire-related compliance violations are addressed before professional drivers roll up to an inspection. TirePass is available on the inside diesel lane at Love’s Travel Stops and inside some Truck Care and Speedco locations. According to CVSA, during the 2020 International Roadcheck, out of approximately 3.3 million inspections conducted, 944,794 driver violations were discovered.

Launch of Portland, Oregon’s ‘Electric Island’ charging station for commercial trucks is on the horizon

By The Trucker News Staff -

PORTLAND, Ore. — As the automotive industry accelerates the delivery of electrified truck models, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and Portland General Electric (PGE) are teaming up to create a first-of-its-kind public charging station for medium and heavy-duty electric commercial trucks. Black & Veatch, a provider of zero-emission vehicle transportation solutions, is now working to bring Portland, Oregon’s “Electric Island” project online to demonstrate high-power charging infrastructure scaled to accommodate electric trucks and large batteries capable of moving up to 80,000 pounds at highway speeds. “’Electric Island’ is a perfect example of what the future looks like here today. It’s exciting to participate in this collaborative project driving innovation between a private enterprise and the local utility, all on a mission to unlock the potential of zero-carbon transportation options,” said Paul Stith, Black & Veatch’s director of global transportation initiatives. Against the backdrop of the advances in electrified trucking and the push to lower or eliminate transportation’s carbon footprint, the project is scheduled to open this spring near DTNA’s headquarters and will feature nine charging stations. The site also will serve as a testing and innovation location, with plans for more chargers, on-site energy storage, solar power generation, a product and technology showcase building, and chargers capable of up to 1 megawatt of charging capacity (that is more than four times faster than the fastest light-duty vehicle chargers in 2021). On what is known as Swan Island, the “Electric Island” joint venture addresses the nexus of electrified trucks and the grid while creating opportunities for future electric vehicle drivers and utility customers, according to a statement from Black & Veatch. Powered by DTNA’s enrollment in PGE’s “Green Future Impact” renewable energy program, the site — and all vehicle charging — will be powered with no greenhouse gas emissions. “Given that transportation is an oversized contributor to pollution and climate-warming emissions, it’s important to ensure charging infrastructure keeps pace with commercial fleet adoption. Lessons learned at Electric Island will help transform thinking for the entire industry,” said Stith, who also serves on the board of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency and of Forth, an organization advancing clean transportation. “Proving the scalability of high-capacity charging infrastructure is critical to demonstrating the path forward for medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles.” In the North American market alone, according to CALSTART’s Global Commercial Drive to Zero initiative, more than 108 models of commercial freight vehicles — including zero-emission heavy-duty trucks, medium-duty truck and vans, and yard tractors — will be available from 46 manufacturers this year. As zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technology matures — particularly in the medium- and heavy-duty arena — regulators in some states are providing incentives and increasingly strong mandates that force broader adoption of emissions-free vehicles and trucks. In June, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandated that half the state’s trucks be zero-emission by 2035.

Volvo celebrates 25th anniversary of flagship VNL model

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America’s flagship, the iconic VNL model, will reach a milestone 25th anniversary this year. Since 1996, the VNL has been assembled at Volvo’s New River Valley manufacturing plant in Virginia, and the truck has become the manufacturer’s most popular model. “Volvo Trucks first revolutionized the North American trucking industry by introducing the first fully integrated sleeper compartment, raising the bar and changing perceptions about truck driving as a professional career,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “The introduction of the Volvo VNL in 1996 continued that legacy of innovation and influence, bringing breakthroughs in design and technology that have reshaped standards of excellence for our customers, their drivers and our industry for 25 years, and will continue to do so for years to come.” When the VNL model first hit the highways of the U.S. a quarter-century ago, the aerodynamic shape, which dramatically improved airflow and fuel efficiency, turned heads. In 1997, the VNL debuted the dinette — a workstation that converts to a bunk — changing the standard for long-haul cabin interiors. Safety features, such as a high-strength steel cab and driver-side airbag, are standard on Volvo’s VNL models. In 2005, Volvo made the first fully electronic stability control system for heavy-duty on-highway trucks a standard feature on the VNL. In 2007, the Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission was made available on the VNL; by 2013, the I-Shift was standard on all models. According to Volvo, the I-Shift transmission improves fuel economy, increases driver comfort and safety, reduces driveline wear and extends transmission life. Remote diagnostics became standard on the VNL in 2012; today, drivers have 24/7 access to real-time in-house support from the Volvo Uptime Center. To help increase safety and comfort, in 2019 Volvo added dynamic steering as an option for the VNL. This tech monitors road and environmental inputs; then adds torque to the steering column to reduce strain. Just this year, Volvo Trucks’ next-generation D13 turbo compound engine, first launched in the Volvo VNL in 2019, was made standard in the Volvo VNL 740, 760 and 860 models, providing optimized performance and efficiency for a wide range of applications and delivering up to 6% fuel economy improvements over the Volvo D13 VGT engine. “On highways across North America, the design and performance of the Volvo VNL has been turning heads and positively impacting our customers’ businesses for 25 years,” said Allison Athey, product marketing manager for Volvo Trucks North America. “We look forward to what technological advancements and customer benefits the next 25 years will bring.” As part of the VNL 25th anniversary celebration, all Volvo VNL models coming off the production line in 2021 will have special commemorative badges affixed to the exterior door panels. Customers interested in decals for their VNL models can obtain artwork by contacting their dealer or corporate sales representative.

Lytx honors 2021 drivers and coaches of the year

By The Trucker News Staff -

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Lytx announced the recipients of its 2021 Driver of the Year and Coach of the Year awards April 8. The awards honor professional drivers and coaches who utilize the Lytx Driver Safety Program. Lytx provides safety services and video telematics, productivity and analytics solutions for fleets of all sizes across various industries. The 2021 honorees were chosen based on having a passion for their jobs and a steadfast dedication to safety. Each individual recognized has gone above and beyond to keep their roads and communities safe, according to Del Lisk, vice president of safety services at Lytx. “Over the past year, we have witnessed drivers and coaches cope with one of the most difficult challenges they’ve ever faced,” he said. “We’re excited to honor these heroes of the road for their remarkable work and sacrifices to keep our country moving forward.” Lytx recognized winners of the Driver of the Year and Coach of the Year awards from a pool of clients across six categories — government, services and utilities, transit and motor coach, for-hire trucking, private trucking, and waste and construction. Lytx’s drivers of the year include: Government First Place: Donald McNair of the Fairfax County government always puts the needs and safety of those he serves first, and has been doing so throughout his 20-year driving career. During his five years with Fairfax County, McNair has never received a seat belt or cell phone policy violation. McNair has not had a coachable event since 2017. Along with his dedication to Fairfax County, he spends his free time volunteering at the Fairfax Deer Management program. As an assistant group leader, McNair supervises 15 to 20 participants each year and manages safety and compliance standards across their respective programs. Second Place: Heinz Hansen of the city of Atlanta’s Department of Aviation. Third Place: Chris Hickman of the city of Ocala, Florida. Services and Utilities First Place: Fritz Nordmann of the Murphy-Hoffman Co. remains motivated every day to create a safe workplace and to be as vigilant on the road as he can be. Taking an active role in his community, Nordmann is passionate about addressing food insecurity for children and families in his area, volunteering at his daughter’s school and a local food bank, Tri-Lakes Cares. Having driven for Murphy-Hoffman for the past eight years, Nordmann has received many awards, including the company’s Safe Driver Award, on five separate occasions. With a strong work ethic and commitment to safety, Nordmann has worked for the past three years without a single coachable event, moving violation or preventable collision. Second Place: Robert Wagner of National Grid. Third Place: Ryan Sidoff of Vitalant. Transit and Motor Coach First Place: William Smith of Greyhound Lines Inc. has been a constant presence in Houston passengers’ lives, ensuring they arrive safely at their destinations for the past 32 years. With over 45 years of experience as a professional driver, Smith has received numerous accolades, including the 2019 Faces of Excellence Driving Award for Greyhound’s Southern Region. Safety and customer service go hand in hand for Smith as he meets the road’s many challenges each day. In the 2.5 million miles Smith has driven for Greyhound, he has never had a preventable collision. Second Place: Godwin McNeal of Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority. Third Place: Victor Michel of First Transit. Private Trucking First Place: John Dansby of Honda Transportation and Ryder has driven more than 3 million miles throughout his 31-year driving career and remains just as committed to safety as he was on his first day. Always adhering to all safety and compliance policies, Dansby is routinely the go-to individual for recertifying and training his fellow drivers. Named Ryder’s Driver of the Month on four separate occasions, Dansby consistently maintains a high level of safety and has built strong relationships with all of his shippers as well. During his free time, Dansby is involved in community service through his church and the local Humane Society. Second Place: Chase Cronan of Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. Third Place: Victor McQuillen of Performance Food Group. For-hire Trucking First Place Winner: Jan Quarnberg of Barney Trucking Inc. takes great pride in his work as a professional truck driver for over 45 years. Receiving numerous awards throughout his career, including the Lytx and DriveCam Good Driving Award and the Glen Barney Hall of Fame award, both in 2017, Quarnberg lives life by the principle, “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” Inspired by his father to always do the job right the first time, Quarnberg has never been involved in an accident or had any driving violations during his 45-year career. Second Place: Jeff Christian of TransWood Inc. Third Place: Phillip Clifton of Transport America. Waste and Construction First Place: Lino Bueno of Waste Connections loves his job, and it shows. Bueno has been with Waste Connections for 12 years, and he has 39 years of overall driving experience. As a tried-and-true professional with a passion for driving, Bueno takes great pride in serving his customers while always maintaining a high level of safety behind the wheel. Motivated by his colleagues and family to stay safe, and because of his tireless hard work and dedication to the job, Bueno has not had a single coachable event for the past three years. Second Place: Kelly Lazaron of Waste Management of Londonderry, New Hampshire. Third Place: Ronnie Johnson of GFL Environmental and Waste Industries. Coach of the Year Lytx also recognized Buner “Herschel” Evans of Yellow Corp. (formerly YRC) as the overall 2021 Coach of the Year as well as in the for-hire trucking category. Having maintained a flawless driving record with over 3 million accident-free miles and numerous awards and accolades to his name — including the 2018 Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance International Driver Excellence Award — Evans is described as an ideal representation of safety for YRC. A true ambassador for the industry, Evans is always doing his part to make the industry safer and, as such, was selected as an American Trucking Associations Road Team Captain. He is also an active member of the Holland’s Safety Committee and Review and Editing Board, YRC Accident Review Board and Mid-Atlantic Professional Truck Drivers Association. In addition to his work at Yellow, Evans has participated in many truck-driving championships throughout his career. He is an active member of his community. He volunteers for Convoy of Care, and is the creator of the Safety Drive for a Cure event, which benefits the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. Other first-place 2021 Coach of the Year winners, within their respective categories, include: Government:Takisha Williams of North Miami, Florida. Services and Utilities:Kyler Van Gulden of National Grid. Transit and Motor Coach:Ronald Bremer of MV Transportation. Private Trucking:Mike Russell of Bimbo Bakeries. Waste and Construction:Justin Heddy of Waste Connections-Pacific Disposal. “We are delighted to celebrate these professionals for the extraordinary work they have done over the past year and throughout their careers, including an unwavering commitment to safety across the board,” Lisk said. “While Lytx remains devoted to helping our clients meet and surpass their safety goals, coaches and drivers like this year’s winners are essential to making our safety program a success.”