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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

Canadian border officials make record meth seizure, file charges against truck driver

By The Trucker News Staff -

COUTTS, Alberta — Christmas Day wasn’t very merry for one Canadian truck driver, according to a Jan. 27 statement released by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). On Dec. 25, 2020, a tractor-trailer with a load of produce, driven by Amarpreet Singh Sandhu, 38, of Calgary, approached the Coutts, Alberta, port of entry and was referred for secondary inspection by CBSA officers. While examining the shipment, CBSA officers uncovered and seized 228.14 kilograms (502.96 pounds) of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $28.5 million — the largest meth seizure at a land-border crossing on record in Canada. This amount of methamphetamine translates to 2.28 million individual doses. “While many Canadians were celebrating Christmas at home, border services officers at Coutts remained on the front line to protect our country,” said Ben Tame, director for the Southern Alberta and Southern Saskatchewan District, Prairie Region, of CBSA. “It is because of CBSA officers’ diligence while screening essential goods that this record amount of methamphetamine did not reach our streets or cause harm to our communities.” Sandhu was arrested by CBSA officers; he and the evidence were turned over to the Alberta Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). After further investigation, RCMP’s Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) charged Sandhu on two counts — importation of a controlled substance and possession for the purpose of trafficking — pursuant to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. “The success of this operation is a testament to the strong partnership the RCMP shares with CBSA, and law enforcement agencies across Canada,” said Superintendent K.C.A. (Allan) Lai, a federal policing operations officer with Alberta RCMP’s federal policing criminal operations. “We know that crime has no borders, and it is imperative that we continue working with our partners, like CBSA, to share information and coordinate enforcement action as needed to keep Canadians from the harms of illegal drugs and crime related to smuggling in Alberta and all of Canada.” Sandhu was released from custody on Jan. 14, and is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 11, at the Lethbridge Provincial Courthouse. The previous record for amount of methamphetamine seized at a land border crossing was approximately 200 kilograms (440.9 pounds), from an incident on Dec. 24, 2019, at the Ambassador Bridge port of entry in Windsor, Ontario.

Brad Coppin named TMC’s December 2020 driver-trainer of the month

By The Trucker News Staff -

DES MOINES, Iowa — TMC Transportation’s driver of the month for December 2020, Brad Coppin, got his start in the transportation industry hauling poultry. When the poultry industry started to take a hit, however, he decided it was time for a change. While scoping out trucks and observing drivers at truck stops, Coppin said, he got an idea of the different freight trailer types available and the lifestyle those drivers live. From then on, he knew he wanted to be a flatbed driver. He narrowed his research to flatbed transportation companies online and visited truck-driver forums to narrow his options down the best company. “TMC had one of the best reputations out there. Any complaints were minor,” he noted. “I called them to discuss more and found out they had one of the best pay programs out there.” Coppin joined TMC’s linehaul division, and soon expressed interest in becoming a trainer. “I started training because I got to meet more people and experience different cultures,” he explained. “Now, my favorite part of being a trainer is having conversations with people. I love it when people ask questions about what I am doing. It breaks up the monotony of a regular solo day.” Coppin has now been with TMC for 12 years and worked as a driver-trainer for a total of five years, taking some time off to simply drive for the company. In those five years as a driver-trainer, Coppin said, he’s learned a lot. “I’ve learned it is not about how you get the job done, but the end result that matters. We do not all do it the same way,” he said. “I have to remind myself sometimes, you can have a different way of doing something and still do it right.” Allowing drivers to — safely — make their own way isn’t the only thing that helps Coppin be a great trainer. He’s also learned the most important piece of the trainer-trainee puzzle is patience. “You have to help (new drivers) learn and be patient with them,” he said. Coppin’s philosophy on being a trainer is unique, according to the folks at TMC. “The training does not end when you leave my truck. My job from that point on is to help you be successful. I tell each trainee, ‘If you have any questions, call me.’ Most of my trainees do. I do my best to keep in touch with each person I train,” he said. “I owe a lot to my trainer, TMC driver, Kent Hall,” Coppin continued. “He has been an inspiration to me and taught me everything I know. We have since become friends and talk daily. I get tips and advice from him as well. … TMC takes care of their people.” Jeff Geist, TMC’s training coordinator manager, said he appreciates Coppin’s work as a driver-trainer “Brad brings a lot of TMC experience to training drivers,” Geist noted. “Brad trains people the right way to be safe and successful and is available for support beyond the time they get into their own truck.” Each month, TMC selects a driver-trainer who demonstrates the outstanding qualities the company looks for in a trainer. The trainer of the month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers.

Minnesota tests ‘snowplow alert’ signs to boost safety on I-35

By The Trucker News Staff -

OWATONNA, Minn. — Drivers on Interstate 35 in southern Minnesota might have noticed new “snowplow alert” messages on digital highway signs recently, warning of slow-moving maintenance vehicles ahead. It’s all part of a test of the technology that activates the signs that’s being conducted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). “Alerting motorists that they’re approaching a slow-moving snowplow can improve safety for our operators and motorists,” said Ron Heim, MnDOT’s maintenance supervisor in Owatonna. “MnDOT is focused on safety and we think this use of technology will help everyone on the road.” The department has equipped 10 MnDOT snowplows that operate along I-35 between Iowa and Northfield with technology that activates the digital message signs as they pass. During snow events, signs notify drivers: “Snowplow ahead, use caution.” During non-snow conditions, the message alerts: “Maintenance vehicle ahead, use caution.” The message stays activated for several minutes after the MnDOT vehicles pass. Snowplows can create “snow clouds” when clearing roads at slower speeds. Warning signs can also be used at other times of year for uses such as maintenance work when crews are repairing high-tension cable median guard or striping roads. Data from the past few years shows that many crashes involving snowplows were rear-end collisions when motorists strike the back of the snowplow. MnDOT hopes using this technology and warning system could reduce and prevent these types of crashes in the future. MnDOT snowplows and maintenance vehicles use existing automatic location technology and the signs are equipped to receive the signal that triggers the message when they travel near the sign. This pilot project is part of MnDOT’s connected and automated vehicle research to understand how advancing technology can improve safety. Minnesota is preparing for connected and automated vehicles by observing emerging technology trends and testing those solutions to see how they solve Minnesota transportation challenges. MnDOT’s Connected and Automated Vehicle Office (CAV-X) is the state’s lead office for connected and automated vehicle technology engagement, policy, testing and partnerships. “Our trucks are already providing data, so we’re able to build off of that and test this concept,” said Jed Falgren, MnDOT’s state director for transportation system management and operations. “We can improve safety and this an important test that should show us what can come next.”

Maine DOT’s 3-year work plan reserves $1.4 billion for highway, bridge projects

By The Trucker News Staff -

AUGUSTA, Maine — Under the Maine Department of Transportation’s (MaineDOT) three-year work plan for 2021-2023, released Jan. 25, nearly $1.4 billion is set aside for highway and bridge capital projects. The plan — which includes all capital projects and programs, maintenance and operations activities, planning initiatives, and administrative functions — contains 2,180 individual work items with a total value of $2.71 billion. According to a prepared statement from MaineDOT, the plan “maintains essential services and provides for solid capital programs” through “robust and prudent state bonding made possible by historically low interest rates and by fully utilizing discretionary and extraordinary federal funding.” It also seeks to expand partnership programs, support existing and emerging businesses, refocus investment in our villages, and confront climate change, the statement continues. The nearly $1.4 billion set aside for highway and bridge capital projects over the next three years is allocated for: 166 bridge projects (estimated cost: $504 million); 100 miles of highway construction and rehabilitation (estimated cost: $212 million); 222 highway safety and spot improvements (estimated cost: $122 million); 893 miles of preservation paving (estimated cost: $321 million); and 2,175 miles of light capital paving (estimated cost: $108 million). The project with the highest price tag is constructing the Interstate 395/Route 9 connector in Brewer/Eddington with a cost of $90.8 million. Other projects in the plan include: Replacement of two bridges that carry Interstate 295 in Yarmouth and two that cross I-295 in Freeport (estimated cost of all four projects: $38.8 million); this project is partially funded by $18.9 million in federal grant money. Replacement of the Route 1 (Station 46) Bridge in Woolwich (estimated cost: $32.5 million); this project is partially funded by $25 million in federal grant money. Bridge replacements and intersection improvements in Old Town and Stillwater (estimated cost: $20 million); this project is partially funded by $10.7 million in federal grant money. A railroad siding and platform project to improve Downeaster service in Wells (estimated cost: $23 million); this project is partially funded by $16.2 in federal grant money. Continued work on the Acadia Gateway Center project in Trenton (estimated cost: $23 million); this project is partially funded by $12.8 million in federal grant money. Two Maine State Ferry Service vessel replacements (estimated cost: $19 million). Heavy rehabilitation work on U.S. Route 1 in Machias and East Machias (estimated cost: $6 million). Dredging Searsport harbor (estimated cost: $5.3 million). Improvements to the Eastern Trail in Scarborough (estimated cost: $4.8 million). MaineDOT’s work plan is dependent on funding assumptions involving state Highway Fund revenue, state bonding and federal funds. If funding sources do not materialize, the items within the plan will be adjusted to reflect funding changes. According to MaineDOT, the agency’s on-time delivery rate for its capital program was a record-breaking 94% in 2020. However, the state’s transportation needs continue to outpace available resources. The pre-pandemic estimate of MaineDOT’s unmet need was $232 million per year. That shortfall figure was calculated after assuming that state bonding of $100 million or more will continue annually. The economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic including drops in traffic volumes and, subsequently, Highway Fund revenue have exacerbated MaineDOT’s funding challenges. “In the short term, we must focus on defeating the virus, restoring our economy, helping Maine people and businesses in need, and addressing budget shortfalls,” said Bruce Van Note, MaineDOT commissioner. “In the long term, we have great opportunities to make a real difference for the people of Maine after we resolve the chronic funding challenges in our transportation system. By investing in transportation, we can move Maine forward.”

Spot van rates, volumes continue month-long slide, DAT report shows

By The Trucker News Staff -

BEAVERTON, Ore. — The number of available loads on the spot truckload freight market continued to slide during the week ending Jan. 24, according to DAT Freight & Analytics, which operates the industry’s largest load board network and freight data analytics service. Van prices declined on most major trucking lanes. The national average spot rate for van and refrigerated freight is now lower than the average contract rate as price increases negotiated between carriers and shippers late last year come online and spot rates dip seasonally. The difference between spot and contract van rates was as high as 14 cents a mile in September; for reefer freight, the gap hit 20 cents a mile in November around Thanksgiving. While spot rates are strong relative to past years, higher contract pricing tends to draw capacity out of the spot market. National average spot rates for Jan. 1-24, based on actual transactions negotiated between carriers and brokers or shippers were: Van: $2.40 per mile, 6 cents lower than the December average; Flatbed: $2.48 per mile, 1 cent higher than December; and Refrigerated: $2.64 per mile, 4 cents lower than December. Trendlines Fuel prices keep climbing: The average price of on-highway diesel was $2.37 per gallon to start November, the low point for the year; last week, the price averaged nearly $2.71 a gallon. Van volume dips: Dry van load-post volume fell 12% compared to the previous week as seasonality started to set in. Less than 1% more trucks were posted, pushing the van load-to-truck ratio down from 3.6 to 3.2. While the number of loads moved on DAT’s top 100 van lanes by volume declined by 0.7% compared to the previous week, the average spot truckload rate fell on 93 of those 100 lanes. The rate increased on just one lane and was neutral on six. On DAT’s top 10 markets, dry van load post volumes dropped by 10% last week; spot rates fell an average of 11 cents a mile in these markets. California correction: DAT analysts are seeing a major correction underway as spot market volumes in Southern California markets return to pre-pandemic levels. Los Angeles averaged $2.80 a mile last week, down 18 cents compared to the previous week and 31 cents lower since the first week of the year. Key lanes last week were: Los Angeles to Chicago: $2.23 a mile, down 48 cents since the beginning of January. Los Angeles to Dallas: $2.50 a mile, down 43 cents. Los Angeles to Atlanta: $2.31 a mile, down 48 cents. Reefers slow: Nationally, the average reefer load-to-truck ratio dropped from 6.5 to 5.9 last week as the number of load posts fell 11% with very little change in truck posts. The number of loads moved on DAT’s top 72 reefer lanes by volume increased 10% week over week, although the average rate was lower on 67 of those lanes. Load post volumes dropped in most of the top 10 markets, however. Domestic produce shipment fall: According to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, domestic truckloads of produce were down 37% year over year for the week ending Jan. 16, but up 13% year over year for imported truckloads. The decrease in domestic volumes is significant and driven by persistent, devastating conditions in the food-service business. At $659 billion, restaurant and food-service industry sales were 27% below expectations and more than 110,000 eating and drinking places closed for business temporarily, or for good, in 2020, according to the National Restaurant Association. Florida volumes pick up: In Florida, winter produce volumes are providing backhaul opportunities for carriers that ventured into the Miami and Lakeland markets where volumes increased by 19% and 23%, respectively, compared to the previous week. Higher volumes and outbound rates in Savannah, Jacksonville, and Tifton were incentives for carriers to stay in southern Georgia, keeping capacity tighter for outbound Florida loads.

CAT Scale Rig of the Week — Jon Gilhuly

By The Trucker News Staff -

When Jon Gilhuly was a kid, he always got excited to see the cattle trucks coming into his grandfather’s farm. He knew even then that he wanted to get into trucking — and that has led him to 26 years behind the wheel. In December 2012 he bought a 1989 Kenworth K100E cabover, and he had it on the road by January of the following year. For comfort, Jon said he stretched the 190-inch wheelbase to a 255-inch wheelbase. Jon said he loves the look of a cabover, and he is currently using the truck to haul oversize freight using an ultra-low step-deck trailer. The truck truly is a family truck, according to Jon, who said his son helps with maintenance, repairs and truck washing, while his wife does the paperwork and keeps the home fires burning. Do you use the CAT Scale app and have a rig you’d like us to feature as the Cat Scale Rig of the Week, send photos to [email protected].

US Xpress makes ‘significant’ financial investment in autonomous trucking

By The Trucker News Staff -

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — U.S. Xpress Enterprises Inc. announced last week that the company has made a “significant” financial investment in TuSimple, a self-driving technology company working to market an autonomous solution for long-haul freight transportation. In addition, Eric Fuller, president and CEO of U.S. Xpress, has joined TuSimple’s Executive Advisory Board. “We’re passionate about finding innovative solutions to industry challenges, and investing now will give us a clear advantage when this technology matures in the years to come,” Fuller said. “Additionally, the Executive Advisory Board is bringing together market-specific insight from across the industry to help drive the development and adoption of this important technology.” U.S. Xpress has been working with TuSimple since 2019 and recently began testing the autonomous technology on select shipping lanes for some of its major customers. From this testing, TuSimple can gather information and benchmark safety and efficiency standards that will help bring the technology to market safely and reliably. “U.S. Xpress has been a valuable partner in the testing of our autonomous technology and Eric will continue to provide expert guidance in helping drive the adoption of autonomous trucks as a member of our Executive Advisory Board,” said Cheng Lu, CEO of TuSimple. Although the industry will always have a need for professional drivers, shortages caused by reduced CDL school graduates and the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse is impacting the industry in both the near- and long-term, according to U.S. Xpress’s most recent economic forecast. Last year, U.S. Xpress introduced its tech-enabled fleet, Variant, and in coming months, will be rolling out a new brokerage offering. “U.S. Xpress remains focused on transforming from a traditional trucking company to a true digital transportation solutions provider and this TuSimple partnership is another example of the company’s innovation,” according to a prepared statement from the company.

Love’s Travel Stops plans to open 50 new stores, add more than 3,000 truck parking spots this year

By The Trucker News Staff -

OKLAHOMA CITY — As many as 50 new Love’s Travel Stops, with a combined total of more than 3,000 new truck parking spots, are planned for 2021, the company announced Jan. 26. The announcement follows a challenging 2020 during which Love’s opened 38 new locations, added more than 3,000 truck parking spaces and donated several million dollars to fight COVID-19, injustice and poverty and to help sick and injured children. “2020 was difficult, but our teams worked together to open new locations, add parking spaces and serve customers despite the pandemic,” said Shane Wharton, president of Love’s. “In 2021, we’ll grow our travel stop network where our customers have asked us to, add new products and services and open new truck care centers to get professional truck drivers back on the road quickly and safely.” The Love’s company announced additional plans for 2021, including: Open more than 30 Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations, the nation’s largest oil change and preventive maintenance network with the most comprehensive roadside coverage for professional drivers and 1,500 maintenance bays and 400 locations across the country. Continue to enhance the Love’s Connect mobile app with new features. Continue to expand the Love’s-branded product line and introduce new fresh food offerings. Increase fueling options across the U.S. through Trillium, a provider of alternative and renewable fuel supply, design, installation and operations.

Navistar, GM collaborate to produce zero-emission long-haul trucks

By The Trucker News Staff -

LISLE, Ill. — Navistar Inc., working in collaboration with General Motors and hydrogen fuel company OneH2, plan to produce a fuel-cell-electric International RH Series truck, which they hope to have available for purchase by model-year 2024. “Hydrogen fuel cells offer great promise for heavy duty trucks in applications requiring a higher density of energy, fast refueling and additional range,” said Persio Lisboa, president and CEO of Navistar. “We are excited to provide customers with added flexibility through a new hydrogen truck ecosystem that combines our vehicles with the hydrogen-fuel-cell technology of General Motors and the modular, mobile and scalable hydrogen production and fueling capabilities of OneH2.” The vehicle’s testing phase is expected to begin by the end of 2022. J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. will pilot the initial testing of the zero-emission long-haul system. The integrated solution will be competitive with other powertrain offerings with a target range of 500+ miles and a hydrogen fueling time of less than 15 minutes. “J.B. Hunt is committed to delivering more while using less, and this new fully-integrated solution offers a prime opportunity to do that,” said John Roberts, president and CEO of J.B. Hunt. “We are excited for the potential of this innovative business model and look forward to sharing our learnings from this pilot program with Navistar and its involved technical and infrastructure partners.” The International RH Series FCEV will be powered by two GM Hydrotec fuel cell power cubes. Each Hydrotec power cube contains 300-plus hydrogen fuel cells, along with thermal and power management systems. The combined propulsion system in the International RH Series FCEV will feature better power density for short-range travel, better short-burst kW output and a per-mile cost expected to be comparable to diesel in certain market segments. “GM’s vision of a world with zero emissions isn’t limited to passenger vehicles. We believe in EVs for everyone,” said Doug Parks, GM executive vice president of global product development, purchasing and supply chain for GM. “We’re thrilled to work with like-minded companies like Navistar and OneH2 to offer a complete solution for progressive carriers that want to eliminate tailpipe emissions with a power solution that can compete with diesel.” Under its partnership agreement with Navistar, OneH2 will supply its hydrogen fueling solution, which includes hydrogen production, storage, delivery and safety. In addition, Navistar will take a minority stake in OneH2. Through its affiliates, OneH2 plans to kick-start substantial hydrogen heavy truck refueling infrastructure by incorporating more than 2,000 International RH Series FCEVs into existing truck fleets in the near term. “We’re excited about the opportunity to partner with Navistar,” said Paul Dawson, president and CEO of OneH2. “We believe strongly that hydrogen fuel is the future of zero-emission renewable energy in the heavy truck market, and are pleased that this agreement will provide additional scope for its application. Under this agreement, we will be able to offer fleets a zero-emission truck with total cost of operation lower than diesel in key segments of the industry.” These newly announced collaborations with General Motors and OneH2 represent important milestones in Navistar’s phased development of hydrogen fuel cell solutions. These technologies leverage Navistar’s battery electric vehicle platforms and provide the customer with a single-source, fully integrated zero-emission solution that includes vehicles, fueling and service.

Epes Transport celebrates nearly a century in trucking

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Epes Transport System LLC, the largest private truckload van carrier based in North Carolina, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. During nearly a century in business, Epes has overcome many challenges and continues to grow. The company attributes its success and longevity to the hard work, dedication and experience of its employees, as well as to its customer base. “The culture at Epes is a function of its people. Whether it’s Year 1, Truck 1, or Year 90, Truck 1,600, the people make Epes Transport special,” said Phil Peck, COO of Epes. “What has never wavered or been lost during good times of growth, or challenging times in the industry, is the trust, honesty and transparency that each person shows to their fellow Epes associate. At every level of the organization, and with every opportunity, we lean on each other, we count on each other, and we invest in each other.” Epes Transport was founded in 1931 in Blackstone, Virginia, as a tobacco hauler with three trucks. Originally known as The Transport Co., it began as a family-owned business and continued that way for more than 55 years. In 1987, the company was by Epes Carriers Inc. in Greensboro, North Carolina; then, in 2018, Penske Logistics, based in Reading, Pa., acquired Epes Transport System. Today, Epes operates more than 1,550 tractors and more than 7,100 trailers. The company has been noted on the lists of Top Workplaces, Best Fleets to Drive For, Most Valuable Employer Military Winner, and Top Companies for Women to Work for in Transportation, among many others. According to a company statement, over the next 90 years, Epes will continue to build relationships with its associates, its communities and the industry at large. The company pledges to remain dedicated to delivering outstanding results, striving for excellence in providing transportation solutions for its customers, and maintaining the highest standard of safety and business ethics.

ATA’s truck tonnage index sees solid gains at year’s end, but 2020 totals still lag behind 2019

By The Trucker News Staff -

ARLINGTON, Va. — American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) advanced seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index jumped 7.4% in December after rising 3.2% in November. In December, the index equaled 120 (2015=100) compared with 111.7 in November. November’s gain was revised down slightly to 3.2% from ATA’s Dec. 22 press release. “Tonnage ended last year on a high note,” said Bob Costello, chief economist for ATA. “The index not only registered the largest monthly gain since June, but it also had the first year-over-year increase since March. Freight continues to be helped by strong consumption, a retail inventory restocking, and robust single-family home construction. With the stimulus checks recently issued and with a strong possibility of more in the near future, I would expect truck freight to continue rising.” Compared to December 2019, the SA index rose 2.3%. For all of 2020, compared with the same 12-month period in 2019, tonnage was down 3.3%; 2019 had an annual increase of 3.3%. “Because of the pandemic, 2020 was obviously a very challenging year for the economy overall, and that is reflecting in the tonnage index’s dip from the previous year,” Costello said. “Despite that, truck tonnage clearly outperformed the broader economy as freight continued to move in the face of a myriad of COVID-related challenges faced by the country.” The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 115.9 in December, 5.4% above the November level (109.9). In calculating the index, 100 represents 2015. ATA’s For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index is dominated by contract freight as opposed to spot market freight. Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.5% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.84 billion tons of freight in 2019. Motor carriers collected $791.7 billion, or 80.4% of total revenue earned by all transport modes. ATA calculates the tonnage index based on surveys from its membership. The numbers presented here are preliminary, and are subject to change in the final report.

Tennessee troopers bust truckers for transporting marijuana, cocaine

By The Trucker News Staff -

JACKSON, Tenn. — Charges have been filed against two New York truckers following a Jan. 15 traffic stop in Tennessee after an inspection revealed marijuana and cocaine hidden in a tractor-trailer. On January 15, a trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s (THP) Interdiction Plus Unit (IPU) stopped a tractor-trailer for a traffic violation on Interstate 40 at the 101-mile marker in Henderson County. While conducting a Level II commercial motor vehicle safety inspection, the trooper discovered “possible indicators of criminal activity” and requested assistance from additional troopers, according to a statement released by THP. As the troopers proceeded with the inspection, discrepancies and irregularities were discovered with the driver’s shipping manifest. During the inspection, troopers entered the semi’s trailer and examined several pallets of cargo, where they discovered a pallet that was not indicated on the original shipping manifest. The cellophane-wrapped pallet appeared to be professionally packaged with affixed shipping labels. Continuing the inspection, troopers opened 12 undocumented boxes, which were found to contain 383 pounds of vacuumed-sealed marijuana. A smaller box contained 40 pounds of cocaine. Charges have been filed in state court on both the driver, David A. Seville, 25, of Brooklyn, New York, and the co-driver, Michael J. Blake, 57, of Jamaica, New York, for possession of schedule VI (marijuana) with the intent to deliver. A criminal complaint has been filed on both men in federal court for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.

UPS puts $800 million price tag on trucking divisions in sales agreement with TFI International

By The Trucker News Staff -

ATLANTA and MONTREAL — UPS and TFI International Inc. on Jan. 25 announced a definitive agreement to sell UPS Freight (UPSF) to TFI International for $800 million, subject to working capital and other adjustments. UPS Freight includes the company’s less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) divisions. The agreement between UPS and TFI International allows UPS Freight to use UPS’ domestic package network to fulfill shipments for five years. Approximately 90% of the acquired business will operate independently within TFI International’s LTL business segment under its new name, “TForce Freight,” while acquired dedicated TL assets will join TFI’s TL business segment. The transaction is subject to usual and customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. “We’re excited about the future and the opportunities this creates for both UPS and UPS Freight as part of TFI International Inc. The agreement allows UPS to be even more laser-focused on the core parts of our business that drive the greatest value for our customers,” said UPS CEO Carol Tomé. “We are pleased to announce this highly strategic transaction that will strengthen our service offerings to customers as well as our ongoing relationship with UPS. Our strategy of operating independent business units with a high degree of accountability is well-suited for building on UPS Freight’s strengths and improving margins over time,” said Alain Bédard, chairman, president and CEO of TFI International. “TForce Freight will continue to serve UPS’ ongoing LTL distribution needs, and UPS will continue to provide freight volumes and other services to TForce Freight after the transaction for a base term of five years. We also look forward to offering expanded strategic network opportunities to UPS in Canada. This transaction is a ‘win-win’, allowing TFI to continue our strategic expansion across the US and aligning with UPS’ ‘Better not Bigger’ strategic positioning.” The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, is expected to close during the second quarter of 2021. UPS expects to recognize a noncash, pretax impairment charge of approximately $500 million on its statement of consolidated income for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020. With an operating history of more than 85 years, UPS Freight is one of the largest LTL carriers in the U.S., offering a full range of regional and long-haul solutions and an on-time delivery guarantee for all LTL shipments. Under the agreement, UPS will retain responsibility for all pre-closing pension obligations, taxes, and accident and workers’ compensation liability claims and costs. TFI intends to make targeted investments in the LTL fleet in the first 12 months following the transaction, lowering maintenance costs, improving both efficiency and safety, and enhancing customer service and driver satisfaction, according to a company statement. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as financial advisor, and King & Spalding LLP is serving as legal advisor to UPS. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and RBC Capital Markets are serving as financial advisors to TFI. Scudder Law Firm, P.C., L.L.O. is serving as legal advisor to TFI.

DTNA to issue safety recall on more than 4,300 Freightliner Cascadias because of steer-tire defect

By The Trucker News Staff -

WASHINGTON — Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) plans to recall more than 4,300 Freightliner Cascadia sleeper trucks because due to defective steer tires, according to safety recall report 21V-007 issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). According to information submitted by DTNA to NHTSA on Jan. 13, 2021, the recall impacts 4,341 model-year 2020-2022 Freightliner Cascadia sleepers. The affected vehicles are equipped with Bridgestone R284, R268 or R283S ECOPIA steer axle tires which, “in conjunction with a specific air dam,” could experience tread separation or blow-outs while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. “While the root cause (of the tread separation) has not been determined, DTNA’s best understanding is that the defect mechanism may be potentially caused by elevated tire temperatures during vehicle operation, leading to tire failure and loss of vehicle control,” the company notes in the recall report. The report continues, noting that other factors, such as underinflation, road speed and others, could also contribute to the failure of the Bridgestone steer tires. DTNA will reach out to owners of the affected vehicles, and dealers will replace the steer tires, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 13, 2021. Owners may contact DTNA customer service at 800-547-0712; reference DTNA recall FL872.

Schneider takes stake in autonomous trucking tech as company CEO joins TuSimple advisory board

By The Trucker News Staff -

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Schneider announced last week that company president and CEO Mark Rourke will join TuSimple’s newly established Executive Advisory Board. TuSimple is a global self-driving technology company developing a commercial-ready Level 4 (SAE) fully autonomous driving solution for long-haul heavy-duty trucks. “The Executive Advisory Board brings together an impressive mix of industry and regulatory leaders from the freight logistics and transportation fields,” said Cheng Lu, CEO of TuSimple. “Our advisors will play a critical role in shaping our go to market strategy and correlating public policy efforts so we can safely and reliably introduce self-driving trucks at scale.” In addition to providing leadership and a test fleet to shape the future of autonomous trucking, Schneider will have a nominal investment stake in TuSimple, allowing shippers to benefit from Schneider’s growing involvement in this space. “Schneider always has been — and will be — in the lead at understanding the potential of new technology that can change or impact our industry,” Rourke said. “TuSimple is a leader in developing autonomous technology for the long-haul trucking industry. There will always be a need for well trained and safe professional drivers, and it’s important that we play a key role in safely developing and testing this technology to be the most prepared.” The carrier has worked to test, develop and deploy new truck technologies for decades, and continued investment in emerging technology that makes its associates safer and improves the overall delivery experience is vital to Schneider’s ongoing success, according to a company statement. In recent years, Schneider has invested in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control, which are the foundation of autonomous vehicle technology. “While fully autonomous vehicles still have development and regulatory work ahead, we are encouraged by the advances in autonomous technology such as braking and other systems that are helping drivers make our roads safer,” Rourke said. “Schneider will work to test and understand over the coming years how this technology will complement our professional over-the-road driver associates and provide new, innovative opportunities for shippers.”

McLeod Software saw record growth during 2020 despite pandemic

By The Trucker News Staff -

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 was a year of record growth for McLeod Software, a provider of transportation enterprise software, the company recently announced. For many transportation companies, new demands on operations and internal processes stemming from the pandemic have highlighted the need for robust information technology and business process automation. As a result, McLeod Software added more new customers in 2020 than in any other single year over the company’s 35-year history, according to a company statement. “We are grateful to serve this vital and critical industry. Trucking and transportation companies are the heroes of the economy in 2020,” said Tom McLeod, president and CEO of McLeod Software. “We are thankful to our wonderful customers, who continue to guide our development and the investments we continue to make in our products.” McLeod started the Birmingham, Alabama-based company in 1985 with a goal of providing powerful transportation management and trucking software solutions to the trucking industry. Today, with an established base of more than 1,000 active customers throughout North America, McLeod Software also operates regional offices with training facilities in Salt Lake City and Chicago. McLeod Software has been recognized as the largest employer of software developers in the Birmingham-Hoover Metro Area. The company was recently named to the FreightTech 25 list of most innovative and disruptive companies in transportation, for the third year in a row, the only TMS. McLeod Software is the only transport management software or enterprise resource planning software company to make the list for 2021.

Comment period open for USDOT’s plan to integrate automated vehicles into U.S. highways

By The Trucker News Staff -

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is accepting comments on the agency’s Automated Vehicles Comprehensive Plan (AVCP). The plan outlines the DOT’s multimodal “roadmap” to prepare the nation’s transportation system for the integration of automated driving systems (ADS). The notice was published in the Federal register Jan. 21; public comments will be accepted for 60 days (until March 22). As reported by The Trucker on Jan. 14, the AVCP addresses automated trucking operations in addition to passenger vehicles. To review the AVCP, click here. To comment on the Federal Register posting, click here.

Kenworth’s AG130 front air suspension now optional for manufacturer’s W990 tractor

By The Trucker News Staff -

KIRKLAND, Wash. — The Kenworth W990 is now available with the optional Kenworth AG130 front air suspension rated at 13,200 pounds. The Kenworth W990 is designed to maximize performance in line haul, pickup and delivery, regional haul and heavy haul operations. At 131.5 inches from bumper to back-of-cab, the long-hood W990 possesses a bold presence among conventional trucks. The proprietary Kenworth AG130 front air suspension utilizes an innovative design and high-performance components. The suspension offers excellent serviceability, reduces the total cost of maintenance and ownership, and delivers an excellent ride for drivers. The Kenworth AG130 front air suspension is also available for the Kenworth T680 and T880. Kenworth’s extensive family of proprietary suspensions includes the AG380, AG400, AG400L, AG460 and AG690 rear suspensions for Class 8 models.

Newly opened Xpress Fuel in Arizona offers trucker amenities, gourmet fare

By The Trucker News Staff -

ELOY, Ariz. — Knoxville, Tennessee-based Pilot Co. and its One9 Fuel Network this week announced the grand opening of an Xpress Fuel travel center that brings 82 truck parking spaces to Eloy, Arizona. The new store is located at 3105 N. Toltec Road, off Interstate 10 at Exit 203. The new travel center features a new restaurant concept, inspired by the truckers who drive America. Trucker Burger was created in collaboration with celebrity chef Tim Love, who owns several restaurants in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and other locales, including Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Woodshed Smokehouse, Queenie’s Steakhouse, White Elephant Saloon and more. “We’re thrilled to open a new Xpress Fuel and our first Trucker Burger restaurant in Eloy, Arizona,” said Jason Nordin, chief operator of Pilot Co. “We welcome our neighbors, travelers and professional drivers to stop with us for fuel, everyday conveniences and the tastiest food on the interstate. As part of our dedication to serving the local community, we are celebrating the grand opening with freebies and by giving back to the local school district.” Currently open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Trucker Burger provides those on the go with a vintage dine-in atmosphere to enjoy freshly made-to-order gourmet burgers, sandwiches, griddled hot dogs, stacked nachos, hand-cut fries, soft-serve ice cream and more. For more information about Trucker Burger restaurant, including its menu, click here. “I’m very excited to debut Trucker Burger in our first location,” Love said. “We spent many months perfecting the menu and I can’t wait to share our great new burger with you all.” The new Xpress Fuel location will add about 50 local jobs to the community and is expected to contribute $2.24 million annually in state and local tax revenues. To celebrate the grand opening, Pilot Co. is donating $5,000 on behalf of Xpress Fuel and Trucker Burger to benefit Santa Cruz Valley Union High School’s technology programs. Xpress Fuel brings several new amenities to area residents, professional drivers and the traveling public, including: Trucker Burger restaurant with gourmet sandwiches; 82 truck parking spots; Eight diesel lanes with high-speed pumps for quicker refueling; 16 gasoline fueling positions; Grab-and-go food offerings including roller grill, nachos, and an array of hot and cold packaged sandwiches and snacks; Everyday products for quick shopping needs; Eight showers; Public laundry facilities; and CAT scale. Xpress Fuel and Trucker Burger are committed to a safe, clean and friendly experience and are following COVID-19 protocols, including requiring masks for team members and guests.