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CarriersEdge releases mental health, personal security courses for truck drivers

The Trucker News Staff - February 9, 2023

NEWMARKET, Ont. – CarriersEdge has expanded its library of training courses, adding new courses that address mental health challenges for truck drivers and personal security issues that drivers may encounter on the road. “A driver’s mental state and sense of safety can significantly impact their well-being and productivity out on the road, which is why we wanted to add these courses to the CarriersEdge library,” Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge, said. “Both issues are increasingly important for drivers, but often ignored because they can be difficult conversations to have.” According to Jazrawy, many of the top performing fleets that participate in Best Fleets to Drive For program, an annual evaluation of the best workplaces in the North American trucking industry, have training programs in place to address mental health and personal security. CarriersEdge, which created the program and evaluates nominated fleets, recognized the need for formalized online training courses on these topics. Mental Health Commercial truck drivers can face social isolation, long shifts, sleep disruptions, stress and other job challenges daily, which over time can lead to burnout, loneliness and other strains on their mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50% of the population in the U.S. will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime. In any given year, 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness. In the commercial transportation industry, truck drivers are more susceptible to experiencing mental health issues due to the nature of their work. In a 2017 CDC report, transportation professionals experienced the fourth-highest suicide rate among occupational groups. The new course, “Mental Health,” is designed to increase awareness about mental health challenges and provide drivers with solutions to improve their mental well-being on the road. After completing the course, drivers will be able to: Explain the difference between good mental health and mental illness. List the mental health challenges that commonly affect professional drivers. Describe how lifestyle choices can affect mental health. List methods to support good mental health on the road. “There is still stigma surrounding the topic of mental illness, which makes it difficult for people to open up and talk about how they’re doing mentally in fear of being judged,” Jazrawy said. “This course is a resource for drivers so that they can better identify and work through mental challenges they may experience and for fleet managers to better monitor and discuss these issues with drivers.” Personal security On the road, drivers can find themselves in situations that threaten their personal security. According to Verisk, provider of CargoNet, incidents of cargo theft in the transportation industry are on the rise. In 2022, CargoNet reported 1,778 incidents of theft in the U.S., an increase of 15% from 2021. CarriersEdge’s new course, “Personal Security,” is designed to help increase a driver’s awareness about personal security threats and provide information on what to do if a driver finds themself in a dangerous situation. At the end of this course, drivers will be able to: Recognize various situations that pose a threat to their personal security. Describe methods thieves can use to target their load. Explain why cargo theft is difficult to prevent. Explain how to protect themselves at each stage of the delivery process. Describe how to de-escalate potentially threatening situations. Explain when they should use self-defense. “Mental Health” and “Personal Security” are now available to customers at no extra charge, as part of the CarriersEdge subscription service. There are nearly 200 titles in the CarriersEdge monthly subscription package, with new and updated titles added regularly. Courses are offered as full-length orientation, short refresher and remedial titles, and as standalone knowledge tests.

Nikola receives CARB OK for Tre hydrogen fuel cell EV

The Trucker News Staff - February 9, 2023

PHOENIX — Nikola Corporation has received approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for its Tre hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) to be eligible for CARB’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project program (HVIP). “This approval will now enable customers of Nikola’s Tre FCEV to access a point-of-sale incentive starting at $240,000 and ranging up to $288,000 per truck in 2023,” a news release stated. Customers will also be eligible for a $40,000 clean commercial vehicle tax credit from the federal government due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. It is estimated that Class 8 heavy-duty trucks may be eligible for approximately $457 million in funding through the HVIP program in 20231, with potentially an additional $45 million per year to be provided by each of the Ports of Los Angeles2 and Long Beach3, which may also be distributed through HVIP. “The inclusion of the Nikola Tre FCEV in California’s HVIP program is a very exciting development as we continue introducing innovative zero-emission truck technology options in our priority sales market and distinguish ourselves as the only OEM offering both battery-electric and FCEVs this year,” Nikola President and CEO Michael Lohscheller said. “The combined incentives available to customer fleets through the HVIP program and the Inflation Reduction Act are critical for driving a competitive total cost of ownership and accelerating market adoption of the Tre FCEV, which will be powered by the hydrogen fuel supply and infrastructure implemented through HYLA, Nikola’s recently launched hydrogen energy brand, and with service provided by our national dealer network. We look forward to delivering the Nikola Tre FCEVs to customers later this year.” In the coming months, Nikola will be collaborating on commercial demonstrations of the Tre FCEV with potential fleet customers in California. Interested fleets can visit with Nikola dealers nationwide to familiarize themselves with the Tre vehicle platform by experiencing the Tre BEV, which includes the advanced technology and driver-centric design that will be featured in the Tre FCEV. Nikola and its dealers are now taking orders and submitting HVIP voucher requests for the Tre FCEV. Nikola Tre FCEV has a range up to 500 miles. Nikola’s Tre BEV, with a range of up to 330 miles, qualified for HVIP certification in California in January 2022. California purchasers of the Nikola Tre BEV may qualify for an incentive valued at $120,000 per truck, and $150,000 for drayage fleets, helping to reduce the total cost of ownership. The Tre BEV is also eligible for a variety of other incentives across the United States, including the $40,000 clean commercial vehicle tax credit from the federal government. The Tre BEV started serial production in March 2022 and is available for purchase and delivery now. For more information, please visit Nikola Electrify Your Fleet.

ArcBest appoints Salvatore Abbate to board of directors

The Trucker News Staff - February 8, 2023

FORT SMITH, Ark. — ArcBest has announced that a new member has been added to the ArcBest Board of Directors. The new director is Salvatore A. Abbate, whose term began Jan. 30. The appointment of Abbate to the board fills the vacancy from Steve Gorman’s departure in August 2022, returning the total ArcBest board membership to 9. Abbate, 54, is chief executive officer of Veritiv Corporation. Before becoming its CEO, Abbate served in various senior leadership roles since joining Veritiv in April 2018, including chief operating officer and chief commercial officer. “With his deep B2B experience and keen focus on sustainability, customer experience, innovation and people, Sal brings to the board a comprehensive, strategic skill set,” Judy McReynolds, ArcBest chairman, president and CEO, said. “His skills will be a great resource for ArcBest as we continue to focus on our strategy for long-term growth and sustained profitability in our rapidly evolving industry.” Abbate was appointed to the Compensation Committee and the Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee effective Jan. 30. Shareholders elect ArcBest directors annually. Abbate will be up for election to a new term at the company’s 2023 annual meeting.

Roadrunner receives TQL Elite Carrier Award

The Trucker News Staff - February 7, 2023

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — Roadrunner recently won an Elite Carrier Award from Total Quality Logistics (TQL) at the SMC3 supply chain intelligence event in Atlanta. The award is part of TQL’s Preferred Less-than-Truckload Carrier Program, which measures LTL carriers on key performance metrics, including shipments handled in their network, on-time service, claims ratio and technology integration, according to a news release. Roadrunner received the award after it announced reduced transit times in 130 major lanes by one to four days, launched one-day service on its signature Chicago-to-Southern California and Southern California-to-Chicago lanes and debuted its new Haul Now app. These enhancements to its network represented Roadrunner’s fourth round of transit time improvements over the past 18 months. “Congratulations to Roadrunner for earning a 2023 TQL Preferred LTL Elite Carrier Award,” TQL President Kerry Byrne said. “The people behind Roadrunner are hard-working and dedicated to this industry, and those traits do not go unnoticed. We are thankful that Roadrunner’s help keeps TQL and America moving.” Chris Jamroz, executive chairman of the board and CEO at Roadrunner, called it an honor to accepted the award. “It is a true testament to our relentless work and dedication of our Roadrunners to build the best LTL carrier in this industry,” Jamroz said. “It is great to know that customers are taking notice of our industry leading transit time and service level improvements. Out of all the LTL carriers in the U.S., we are excited to be recognized among this prestigious group. Congratulations to the other recipients as well and especially Old Dominion Freight Lines, Southeastern Freight Lines, Estes and ABF Freight.”

TCA, CarriersEdge announce 2023’s Best Fleets to Drive For

The Trucker News Staff - February 7, 2023

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) and CarriersEdge have announced the 2023 Best Fleets to Drive For. The Top 20 winners are for-hire trucking companies from across North America recognized for providing exemplary work environments for their professional truck drivers and employees. For-hire companies operating 10 or more tractor-trailers must receive a nomination from one of their company drivers or owner-operators to be considered for the Best Fleets program, according to a news release. The fleets were evaluated using a scoring matrix covering a variety of categories, including total compensation, health benefits, performance management, professional development and career path/advancement opportunities, among other criteria. “The Best Fleets to Drive For has made a substantial impact on drivers and the carriers they work for,” TCA President Jim Ward said. “During Truckload 2023: Orlando, we’re eager to recognize 30 fleets who are focused on providing a great workplace for their professional truck drivers. Be sure to attend this year’s awards presentation in March where we honor these Top 20 Best Fleets to Drive For. Surveys were conducted to collect input from drivers and independent contractors working with the fleets. Last year, TCA and CarriersEdge expanded the program by adding a Hall of Fame category. This recognition level is above the regular Top 20 and honors fleets demonstrating Top 20 performance for extended periods of time. Fleets must be named as a Best Fleet for 10 consecutive years, or 7 years with at least one overall award, and must continue to qualify as a Top 20 to be eligible for the Hall of Fame. Two fleets earned the honor this year and will be inducted into the Best Fleets to Drive For Hall of Fame, sponsored by EpicVue. “This year we saw 165 fleets nominated by their drivers for this program and a record-breaking 95 finalists,” CarriersEdge CEO Jane Jazrawy said. “This year’s Top 20 and Hall of Fame fleets rose to the top with a range of inventive and effective programs, that reflect true innovation and creative thinking.” This year’s Top 20 winners are: American Central Transport – Kansas City, Missouri. C.A.T. Inc. – Coteau-du-Lac, Quebec. Challenger Motor Freight Inc. – Cambridge, Ontario. Chief Carriers, Inc. – Grand Island, Nebraska. Continental Express, Inc. – Sidney, Ohio. Decker Truck Line, Inc. – Fort Dodge, Iowa. Erb Transport – New Hamburg, Ontario. Fortigo Freight Services Inc. – Etobicoke, Ontario. Fremont Contract Carriers, Inc. – Fremont, Nebraska. Jetco Delivery a GTI Company – Houston, Texas. K & J Trucking, Inc. – Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Kriska Holdings Limited – Prescott, Ontario. Leonard’s Express – Farmington, New York. Nick Strimbu, Inc. – Brookfield, Ohio. PGT Trucking, Inc. – Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. Thomas E. Keller Trucking Inc. – Defiance, Ohio. TLD Logistics Services, Inc. – Knoxville, Tennessee. Transland – Strafford, Missouri. Veriha Trucking, Inc. – Marinette, Wisconsin. Wellington Group of Companies – Aberfoyle, Ontario. Returning Hall of Fame recipients are: Bison Transport Inc. – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Boyle Transportation – Billerica, Manitoba. Central Oregon Truck Company, Inc. – Redmond, Oregon. FTC Transportation, Inc. – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Grand Island Express – Grand Island, Nebraska. Halvor Lines, Inc. – Superior, Wisconsin. Nussbaum Transportation Services, Inc. – Hudson, Illinois. Prime Inc. – Springfield, Missouri. New Hall of Fame recipients are as follows: Garner Trucking, Inc. – Findlay, Ohio. TransPro Freight Systems Limited – Milton, Ontario. In addition to the Top 20, TCA and CarriersEdge identified five Fleets to Watch (honorable mentions): Crete Carrier Corporations and its Shaffer Trucking Division – Lincoln, Nebraska. Mill Creek Motor Freight LTD – Ayr, Ontario. Skelton Truck Lines – Sharon, Ontario. Steve’s Livestock Transport – Blumenort, Manitoba. USXL – Foristell, Missouri. Two overall winners, in large and small fleet categories, will be named during TCA’s Annual Convention — Truckload 2023: Orlando — set for March 4-7 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Centre, Kissimmee, Florida. The overall winner awards are sponsored by Eleos Technologies and TruckRight. To learn more about the Hall of Fame category, the nomination process, or additional information on the Best Fleets to Drive For program, visit www.bestfleetstodrivefor.com. Be sure to follow the hashtag #BestFleets23 on social media to follow this year’s contest.

Jones Logistics acquires Nationwide Express

The Trucker News Staff - February 7, 2023

HATTIESBURG, Miss. and SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. — Jones Logistics has announced the acquisition of Tennessee-based Nationwide Express. Nationwide provides dedicated trucking services, warehousing, 3PL logistic services, recycling transportation and waste management solutions. Its geographic footprint includes operations in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. JoLo is a portfolio company of Jones Capital. Hattiesburg, Mississippi-based JoLo delivers freight brokerage, managed transportation and dedicated services to clients across the United States. Through this acquisition, JoLo “expands not only its geographic footprint, but also its service line offerings and capabilities, which will now include warehousing and enhanced intermodal and managed transportation solutions,” according to a news release. “Further, JoLo can now offer Nationwide’s customers access to its broad and deep carrier base and its nationwide dedicated offerings.” “Nationwide Express is a highly reputable organization rooted in the same fundamentals of professionalism, quality, and customer satisfaction as Jones Logistics,” Brian Haynes, CEO of Jones Logistics, said. “We share very similar core values and feel that we have complimentary cultures, which was so important to us when looking at this opportunity. We are excited to welcome the Nationwide Express team to the Jones Logistics family, and we are eager to bring the benefits of our combined team, network, and capabilities to our customer base.” With the acquisition of Nationwide, JoLo’s headcount now tops more than 700 team members, with a fleet of over 500 trucks. “We congratulate Jones Logistics in this latest chapter of their growth and welcome Nationwide Express to the Jones Capital family,” Tom Caughlin, president of Jones Capital, said. “The Nationwide Express team and ownership group have built a tremendous business over the years, and we look forward to building upon their historic success for the benefit of their customers, employees, and respective communities.”

Sheetz extends discounted DEF prices

The Trucker News Staff - February 6, 2023

ALTOONA, Pa. — Sheetz, a major Mid-Atlantic restaurant and convenience chain, is extending its discounted diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) prices through the end of February. On Jan, 24, Sheetz decreased the price of its DEF to 99 cents a gallon at its locations that offer this fluid, according to a news release. The new price, which was supposed to last until Jan. 31, will now remain in effect until Feb. 28 at the following Sheetz locations: Pennsylvania 139 Route 6, W Coudersport, PA 16915. 1867 Rich Highway, Falls Creek, PA 15840. 205 N Center Avenue, New Stanton, PA 15672. 718 Bellwood Road, Altoona, PA 16601. 610 Route 22 Highway, W Blairsville, PA 15717. 3014 Route 219, Kane, PA 16735. 5235 N Susquehanna Trail, York, PA 17406. 2298 Golden Key Road, Kutztown, PA 19530. 3636 PA 31, Donegal, PA 15628. North Carolina 2521 North Memorial Drive, Greenville, NC 27834. 1400 NC Highway 66, South Kernersville, NC 27284. 2191 13th Avenue Drive SE, Hickory, NC 28602. 1532 Salisbury Highway, Statesville, NC 28677. 4005 Jones Sausage Road, Garner, NC 27529. Ohio 1101 North Canfield Niles Road, Austintown, OH 44515. 5238 Alum Creek Drive, Groveport, OH 43125. 5010 Corrine Drive, South Bloomfield, OH 43103. 560 River Street, Madison, OH 44057. 360 Center Street, Seville, OH 44273. 321 State Street, Jeffersonville OH 43128. Virginia 5015 Mudd Tavern Road, Woodford, VA 22580. 550 South Airport Drive, Henrico, VA 23231. 227 Conicville Boulevard, Mt. Jackson, VA 22842. West Virginia 268 Genny Loop, Moorefield, WV 26836. The average price of diesel exhaust fluid at Sheetz’s stores cost $3.50 a gallon before this offer, the news release noted. “This reduction has resulted in a savings of approximately $15-$75 for customers depending on the size of their DEF tank in their vehicle. This offer only applies to bulk DEF sold at Sheetz’s truck diesel dispensers,” according to the company. Key Facts About DEF It is not a fuel. DEF is used in vehicles with diesel engines with Selective Catalytic Reduction to reduce emissions. Its purpose is to clean up the exhaust gas on a vehicle before it is emitted into the atmosphere. DEF is filled into a separate tank on a vehicle. DEF is used in commercial vehicles with diesel engines. Refilling your diesel exhaust fluid is comparative to getting an oil change in your car. If you let it go for too long, it may result in permanent damage to your engine.

Pana-Pacific board appoints Joseph Saoud as new CEO

The Trucker News Staff - February 6, 2023

FRESNO, Calif. — The Board of Directors of Pana-Pacific, Inc. has announced the appointment of Joseph Saoud as the company’s new chief executive officer. Saoud brings 28 years of multifunctional experience in the industrial goods sector to the role, according to a news release. “To meet today’s ever evolving business challenges companies need unique leaders,” Harrison Brix, chairman of the board for Pana-Pacific, said. “Joseph Saoud is just that, a unique leader and his dynamic skills will benefit Pana-Pacific for many years to come “We are extremely proud to have him on our team.” Saoud has held leadership positions with Cummins, Inc., Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc., Bridgestone Americas and Trelleborg Wheel Systems. Saoud describes himself “as a high energy problem solver whose intention is to create an environment of transparency and engagement to deliver innovation and value to all stakeholders.”

Volvo Trucks hits all-time high volumes in 2022

The Trucker News Staff - February 6, 2023

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The year 2022 was a record one for Volvo Trucks. The company delivered an all-time high number of its trators to customers and also increased its market share in 41 countries, according to a news release. The global truck manufacturer delivered 145,195 trucks in 2022, an increase of 19% from 2021, when 122,525 trucks were delivered, the company stated. Volvo Trucks also increased its market share in the heavy truck segment in 41 markets globally. The record deliveries and market share increase should be seen in the light of supply chain shortages that prevailed throughout the year. ”We have had a fantastic year, considering the uncertain and difficult times we live in,” Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks, said. “Despite supply chain shortages and disturbances in production, we managed to increase our volumes significantly and get the trucks out to our customers, so that they can grow and improve their business. This is thanks to our close collaboration with our suppliers as well as the hard work done in our own organization and at our dealers.” In Europe, Volvo Trucks has a market share of 18.2%, which is the highest ever. Volvo Trucks is the market leader in several European countries. The company also increased its market shares in North America and Australia, to 10.8% and 17.0%, respectively. In Brazil, Volvo Trucks increased its market share to 24.6% and thereby became the market leader for the first time ever. ”We have successfully launched new products and services during the year, and we have sold vehicles to many new customers, too,” Alm said. “The feedback we get from customers is that they really appreciate and value our high quality and fuel-efficient trucks, and also the professional and rapid support they get from our extensive dealer and workshop network. All of these factors contribute to their own profitability.” Volvo Trucks started series production of heavy-duty electric trucks in 2022, as the first global truck manufacturer to do so. Deliveries of electric trucks are now clearly showing an increasing trend. The U.S., Germany, Netherlands, Norway and Sweden are today the biggest markets for Volvo’s electric trucks. “Many of our customers, both in Europe and in many other markets, have started the shift to electric during the year,” Alm said. “They clearly see that zero-tailpipe emissions transport is an increasing and exciting business opportunity. I’m very confident that this trend will continue and rapidly grow stronger in the coming years.”

ACT Research: Class 8 natural gas truck sales mixed, while infrastructure declines

The Trucker News Staff - February 6, 2023

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Sales of natural gas-powered Class 8 tractors were mixed in the September to November 2022 time period, according to the latest Alternative Fuels Quarterly by ACT Research. September activity surpassed its year-ago level by 29%, but both October and November lagged last year’s comparisons by 9%. “In the near term, results were even more volatile, with September gaining 12% month over month, October dropping 39% compared to the previous month and November surging 45% sequentially,” Steve Tam, vice president at ACT Research, said. “Quantifying activity, NG sales totaled 3,719 units in 2021 (+10% from 2020). Through the first 11 months of 2022, OEMs have sold 3,497 NG-powered Class 8 units.” Tam said there were 751 public compressed natural gas stations open in the US in mid-December 2022, the vast majority of which can accommodate a heavy-duty vehicle. He added that liquid NG station count at the same period was 51, with all able to serve Class 8 vehicles. “This translates to 71 fewer public CNG station and 3 fewer public LNG station since mid-September 2022,” Tam said. Tam said that given the existing station count’s downward trajectory, it isn’t a surprise that planned CNG stations are also contracting. “(The) number of stations is one measure,” Tam said. “What we don’t know is the increase or decrease in the amount of fuel being pumped at each station.”

ACT Research: Class 8 Truck orders hit 18,400 units in January

The Trucker News Staff - February 6, 2023

COLUMBUS, Ind. – Orders for Preliminary North American Class 8 tractors in December 2022 hit 18,400 units, classes 5-7 net orders were 17,800 units. Complete industry data for January, including final order numbers, will be published by ACT Research in mid-February. ACT’s State of the Industry: Classes 5-8 Vehicles report provides a monthly look at the current production, sales and general state of the on-road heavy and medium duty commercial vehicle markets in North America. It differentiates market indicators by Class 5, Classes 6-7 chassis and Class 8 trucks and tractors, detailing activity-related measures such as backlog, build, inventory, new orders, cancellations, net orders and retail sales. Additionally, Class 5 and Classes 6-7 are segmented by trucks, buses, RVs and step van configurations. The Class 8 market is segmented into trucks and tractors, with and without sleeper cabs. The report includes a six-month industry build plan, a backlog timing analysis, historical data from 1996 to the present in spreadsheet format, and a ready-to-use graph package. A first-look at preliminary net orders is also published in conjunction with this report. “Given how robust Class 8 orders were into year end, the relative pause in January is not surprising,” Eric Crawford, ACT’s vice president and senior analyst, said. “We note that over the final four months of 2022, nearly 159k Class 8 net orders were placed, +92% year over year, and only 8% below those placed over the same period in 2020. January’s orders represent the first y/y decline in five months (August). MD demand was comparatively healthy. January Classes 5-7 orders rose 5% y/y (+2% month over month) to 17,800 units. The seasonally adjusted January intake, at 18,100 units, was +4% y/y (+12% m/m).”

Who’s the boss? Be prepared for added responsibilities when you obtain your authority

Cliff Abbott - February 6, 2023

Purchasing your own truck and becoming an owner-operator is a big step in a trucking career. Many drivers take that step and then choose to lease that truck to an established carrier. Doing this allows them to make decisions about their business while maintaining the security of the carrier’s freight system. There’s another step, however, that means true trucking independence. Obtaining your own authority can establish your identity as a stand-alone carrier … but it can also add tons of responsibility, as the role of truck owner/driver expands to company manager. While the concept of “authority” may seem complicated, it really isn’t. At its simplest, the term simply means “permission.” If you meet the requirements, the government can register your business as an official carrier, providing the permission you need to operate. If you stop meeting those requirements, your authority can be revoked. The official term for that authority is MC (or motor carrier) authority. When it is granted, you’ll receive an MC number that must be displayed on your vehicle. You’ll also need a Department of Transportation (DOT) number — and it can be confusing to know the difference between those two numbers. DOT numbers typically refer to vehicle and cargo types. For example, you might specify you’ll be driving a vehicle in excess of 10,000 pounds and hauling hazardous materials. If you intend to haul farm products or products from your own business, you’ll need a DOT number, but you may not need an MC number. MC numbers are how the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) identifies the interstate operating authority of your business. You must have a DOT number to receive an MC number. Most states require a DOT number even if all your travel is within that state. You can register your business with FMCSA at fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/get-mc-number-authority-operate. DOT numbers cost nothing, while the fee for MC registration is $300 for each type of authority sought. For example, if your business hauls freight but you also own a couple of passenger-hauling buses, you’ll need separate authority for each. It can take a month or more for your authority to be issued. You must have liability insurance in effect for your authority to be granted, and that authority will be revoked if you allow your insurance to lapse or it is cancelled. Once you’ve obtained your authority, you’ll be responsible for meeting the legal obligations that go along with your business. If you’re an owner-operator leased to a carrier, the carrier may handle vehicle registration, International Fuel Tax Association (IFTA), heavy-vehicle use tax (HVUT) and all permits on your behalf. When you have your own authority, all of these — and more — become your responsibility. Some owners choose to use business services to handle the legal stuff. There are a number of businesses that offer to handle these tasks for you. Services can vary, and so can the fees charged for the tasks. Be sure to choose a firm you trust. After all, your business is at stake. The legal requirements are only the first step. As an independent carrier, you’ll be responsible for all the different facets of your business. Think about the structure of a large carrier. Typically, you’ll find an operations department that handles the daily task of moving freight. You’ll also find a sales department that sells the service, and a customer service department that is the liaison between operations and the customer. There is also a department responsible for billing and collecting payment for services provided, as well as paying the bills and handling tax matters. A safety department ensures compliance with applicable laws, and a permits person or department makes sure each truck has all the necessary documents. A maintenance department is responsible for equipment purchase and upkeep. When you own the company, all of those responsibilities are now yours. The job of picking up, hauling and delivering freight is only part of what you’ll be responsible for. As with the legal matters, of these duties can be handled by other businesses, but keep in mind that fees for these services will come out of your profits. There are several ways to handle vehicle maintenance, for example. You might pay a repair business to take care of everything from routine oil changes to major repairs. You might choose to do the less complicated tasks, like changing oil or tires and fixing lights yourself, leaving the bigger jobs to a shop. Some truck owners are very knowledgeable and do most of their own repair work. Decide how you’ll handle these things in your business. If you do your own maintenance work, there’s a catch: When your truck is in the shop, no matter who is performing the work, no freight is hauled and no income received. So, even if you’re capable of doing the work, a shop might do it faster, getting you back on the road and bringing in profits. The same principles apply to other parts of your business. For example, will you personally call on potential customers and sell your services? You may choose to work with brokers instead, understanding that they keep a percentage of the load revenue for their services. Other functions, such as accounting, take time and expertise, and you might be better off trusting them to a business that handles them. You might even hire someone to do the driving for you, while you take care of the other functions or simply make sure that the businesses you have contracted with are doing their part. Operating a successful business often starts with a skills inventory. You may be a great driver … but how are your management skills? Your math and accounting? Are you a good salesperson? You might choose to do the things you’re good at and hire someone else for the rest. Time is another factor. Time spent on accounting tasks can’t be spent driving. What’s the best use of your time? Obtaining your own authority can be a huge step towards building your trucking empire, but it’s important to plan how you’ll handle the different facets of the job.

US Bank Freight Payment Index: 2022’s Q4 shipments down 7.1% compared to 2021

The Trucker News Staff - February 3, 2023

MINNEAPOLIS — The volume of freight moved by truck in the peak shipping season of 2022 dropped by the largest year-over-year level since the heart of the pandemic, according to the latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index. Fourth quarter truck freight shipments contracted 7.1% year-over-year — the largest drop since Q3 2020 — and 4.6% compared to the third quarter of 2022. The slowdown was driven by a significant contraction in the West region, where volumes dropped 8.9% year-over-year and 10.6% compared to the third quarter. “A pullback in consumer spending on goods is causing the truck freight market to soften,” Bob Costello, senior vice president and chief economist at the American Trucking Associations, said. “Higher prices for goods are leading to less consumption of items moved via truck. At the same time, monetary policy changes are reducing demand for large-ticket items in interest-rate sensitive areas like autos and homes.” Even with the drop in shipments, spending by companies shipping goods didn’t decline much in the fourth quarter. Spending fell just 0.2% compared to the third quarter and was up 1.8% over Q4 2021. Only the West region experienced a significant decline in spending, down 7% compared to Q3 2022 and 7.4% year-over-year. “With shipments dropping considerably and lower diesel fuel prices, we would have expected to see a larger decline in spending this quarter,” Bobby Holland, director of freight data solutions at U.S. Bank, said. “This suggests that capacity is getting tighter, potentially due to smaller carriers leaving the market as cost pressures remain high, especially when coupled with lower spot market volumes and rates.” Regional Data Midwest Shipments Linked quarter: -6% Year over year: -6.6% Spending Linked quarter: 0.1% Year over year: -0.1% The Midwest region’s 6.6% year-over-year contraction in shipments was the largest of 2022 and 11th straight quarter of decline. The region’s 0.1% spending contraction marked the first year-over-year decline in spending by shippers since the heavily pandemic-impact third quarter of 2020. West Shipments Linked quarter: -10.6% Year over year: -8.9% Spending Linked quarter: -7% Year over year: -7.4% A top performer in recent years, volumes in the West region have dropped significantly in recent quarters. This coincides with a drop in West Coast port activity, where import container volumes fell 26% in November and 23.3% in October. The 7.4% drop in spending by shippers in the region was most since Q2 2020. Northeast Shipments Linked quarter: -5.8% Year over year: -11.1% Spending Linked quarter: -0.9% Year over year: 2.7% The 11.1% year-over-year decline in Northeast region shipments follows a 7.1% drop in the third quarter. Higher household spending on services in the Northeast during Q4 impacted freight movement, and subsequently put pressure on holiday season retail. Spending in the region dropped compared to the third quarter but was still up 2.7% compared to the same period in 2021. Southeast Shipments Linked quarter: -1.4 Year over year: -10.4% Spending Linked quarter: 2.7% Year over year: 4.4% This marked the sixth straight drop in quarterly shipments for the Southeast region and third straight double-digit year-over-year decline. The decline coincided with a 16.7% drop in housing starts in the region, according to the Census Bureau. Suggesting a decline in capacity, spending in the region was up quarterly and versus a year ago.  Southwest Shipments Linked quarter: 0.4% Year over year: 6.3% Spending Third quarter: 3.5% Year over year: 19.6% The Southwest continues to be the top region for truck freight volume. Costello points to the region’s energy production, Mexican trade, and elevated seaport activity as contributing factors. For example, Port of Houston container volumes were up 7.9% in November and 19.7% in October. The increase in shipments led to a sharp year-over-year increase in spending by shippers in the Southwest, which far outpaced other regions. To see the full report including in-depth regional data, visit the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index website.

Latest data from Truckstop, FTR show spot rates moving with seasonal expectations

The Trucker News Staff - February 2, 2023

BOISE, Idaho, and BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ending Jan. 27, 2023, shows that spot rates continue to move according to seasonal expectations for a post-holiday cooldown. While rates are still tracking with the five-year average, spot load activity so far in 2023 has been weakening relative to average levels. In the latest week, volume was nearly 21% below the five-year average. That comparison has deteriorated each week during 2023 and is the lowest since the lockdown period of the pandemic except for Thanksgiving week last year. The increase in truck postings slightly outpaced the uptick in volume. The Market Demand Index fell to 55.5 — the lowest level in eight weeks. Rates are still close to average levels, but volume in 2023 has been weakening relative to the five-year average. Total load activity ticked up 1% after the prior week’s 13.3% drop. Volume was nearly 60% below the same week last year and nearly 21% below the five-year average. The comparison with the five-year average has deteriorated each week during 2023 and is currently the lowest since the lockdown period of the pandemic, except for Thanksgiving week 2022. Load activity was mixed regionally as volume was up in the Southeast, Northeast and Midwest but down elsewhere. Truck postings increased 3.2%, and the Market Demand Index — the ratio of loads to trucks — fell to its lowest level in eight weeks. The total broker-posted spot market rate fell nearly 3 cents, the smallest decrease of 2023 so far. Rates were 19% below the same week in 2022 and about 5% above the five-year average, which is slightly weaker than in week 3. FTR estimates that rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were about 28% below the same week last year. Broker-posted rates in dry van and refrigerated are lower than they were before the final two weeks of 2022 but are still tracking very close to the five-year average. Dry van rates declined more than 34 cents in the first four weeks of 2023 after jumping about 24 cents in the final two weeks of 2022. Dry van spot rates declined about 6 cents after the much sharper decreases in the two weeks prior. Dry van rates were about 28% below the same week in 2022 and about 1% below the five-year average for the week. Excluding a fuel surcharge, rates were about 39% lower than in the same week last year. Dry van loads ticked up nearly 1% after dropping about 24% in the prior week. Volume was almost 60% below the same week last year and about 16% below the five-year average for the week. Refrigerated rates have dropped nearly 75 cents after surging more than 67 cents. The strength of spot rates will become clearer over the next several weeks as they typically begin to firm in February. Refrigerated spot rates fell 10 cents for the smallest decrease this year. Refrigerated rates were more than 29% below the same week in 2022 and about 1% below the five-year average for the week. Although the deficit relative to the average is small, it is the largest since June 2020. Excluding fuel surcharges, rates were nearly 39% below the same week last year. Refrigerated loads declined 3% after falling more than 26% during the previous week. Volume was more than 64% below the same week in 2022 and nearly 26% below the five-year average for the week. Flatbed saw neither the big rate surge in late December nor the sustained cooldown this year that the van segments experienced. In the latest week, flatbed rates were only about 4 cents lower than they were before the holidays. Flatbed spot rates eased just over a cent. Rates were about 14% below the same 2022 week but 8% above the five-year average for the week. Excluding an imputed surcharge, flatbed rates were nearly 23% below the same week last year. Flatbed loads increased 2.8% to the highest level since August. Volume was almost 63% below the same week last year and nearly 28% below the five-year average for the week.

Fuel giant Exxon reports unprecedented profits for 2022 as travel, war in Ukraine heated up

The Associated Press - February 2, 2023

NEW YORK — Exxon Mobil posted record annual profits in 2022 as consumers and businesses globally struggled with high prices for gasoline and diesel fuel, home heating, and goods. The energy giant brought in $55.7 billion in annual profits, exceeding its previous record of $45.22 billion in 2008, when a barrel of oil soared close to $150. Exxon’s bounty came as Americans shelled out $4 per gallon for gasoline throughout most of the spring and summer with millions hitting the road. At one point gasoline topped $5 a gallon. Supplies grew tight and prices rose globally after Russia invaded Ukraine and reduced energy supplies to Europe. The trucking industry also suffered, with average monthly diesel prices steadily rising from a low of $3.72 per gallon in January 2022 to a high point of $5.75 in June, according to statista.com. The year ended with an average price of $4.71 in December, more than $1 higher than the $3.64 reported for the same time frame in 2021, figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show. The year marked a dramatic turnaround from 2020 when travel ground to a halt during the coronavirus pandemic and demand for fuel evaporated. That year, the price for future oil contracts plummeted below zero at one point, dozens of oil and gas companies filed for bankruptcy protection and thousands of industry workers lost their jobs. Exxon, for the first time in decades, lost money in 2020. Two years later, Exxon booked $12.75 billion in profits and $95.43 billion in revenue in just its final quarter. “While our results clearly benefited from a favorable market, the counter-cyclical investments we made before and during the pandemic provided the energy and products people needed as economies began recovering and supplies became tight,” said CEO Darren Woods. “We leaned in when others leaned out.” Exxon achieved its best-ever annual refining output in North America and the highest globally since 2012, the company said. It completed the expansion of its Beaumont Refinery in Texas and expects to be able to process 250,000 barrels per day of crude oil there in first quarter of this year. Much of the nation’s refining capacity taken offline during the pandemic has yet to return, Woods said during a conference call with investors, which drove refining margins higher. “We’ve continued to strengthen our industry-leading portfolio and increased production from high-return, advantaged assets in Guyana and the Permian, at a time when the world needed it most,” Woods said. Exxon earned $3.09 per share in the quarter. That was lower than the expectations of analysts polled by Factset, who were anticipating $3.29 per share. The price of oil ranged between $70 to $90 for a barrel of U.S. benchmark crude during the quarter. Domestic natural gas prices, which affect the cost of home energy and electricity, ranged from $6 to $7 per million British thermal units during the quarter, according to FactSet, which was a higher price than most Americans have paid in recent years. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Russia’s decreased its supply of natural gas to Europe, which resulted in higher prices of natural gas and its liquid counterpart, LNG, on the global market. President Joe Biden has accused oil companies of profiting from the war Russia is waging on Ukraine, and has previously raised the possibility of a war profit tax on oil companies. Exxon said it incurred $1.3 billion during the quarter associated with European taxes on the energy sector and asset impairments. “A windfall tax on oil and gas profits is needed more than ever, to free up money that’s desperately needed to help those struggling with the cost of energy, and as economies around the world face recession,” said Jonathan Noronha-Gant, senior campaigner with Global Witness, a nonprofit organization that advocates for environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility. The European Union imposed a windfall tax on energy companies last fall, and Exxon filed a lawsuit challenging the tax in December. “We looked at what happened in the EU and said it both is not legal and it’s the opposite of what is needed,” Woods said Jan. 31. “So what’s needed right now is more supply. And instead, what’s been put in place is a penalty on the broad energy sector.” Exxon also announced progress on sustainability aims, saying it achieved its goal of eliminating routine flaring in the Permian Basin during the fourth quarter, which is part of its effort to reduce emissions. Flaring is a practice where oil and gas companies burn off excess natural gas instead of capturing it. Exxon’s Low Carbon Solutions business recently signed a contract to capture and permanently store up to 2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, Woods said. The recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, which incentivizes carbon capture and storage, reinforces those plans and Exxon is planning to invest $17 billion in lower-emissions opportunities from 2022 through 2027, up from $15 billion in its prior plan, he said. Exxon closed 2022 on a strong note, but softer oil and natural gas prices in the fourth quarter — compared to earlier in the year — had an impact, said Peter McNally, global sector lead at Third Bridge. “The big picture here for Exxon Mobil is that the company has financial flexibility and plenty of investment options,” McNally added. The Trucker News Staff contributed to this report.

Put your best foot forward: Know what’s on your record before applying

Cliff Abbott - February 2, 2023

Chances are, just about everyone who works in the offices of a trucking company (or any office, for that matter) followed a similar process to get the job. The usual process is to fill out an application, submit a resume and then be brought in for at least one face-to-face interview. During that interview, the prospective employer asks questions about the applicant’s work history, education and other subjects related to how he or she might perform the job if hired. Usually the applicant is allowed to ask questions, too. For most professional truck drivers, however, the hiring process works quite differently. Resumes are rarely submitted by drivers or considered by recruiters. The initial “interview” is often a brief phone conversation, or an exchange of emails or text messages, with a recruiter representing the carrier. The driver is asked to complete an application, provide relevant information and consent to background checks. If everything looks good, the driver is extended an invitation to orientation, where more information is exchanged. For office positions, employers are most often seeking the best candidate for the job. For driving positions, employers often want to hire as many qualified drivers as they can. It’s not a matter of who’s “best” when “good enough” will do. Despite the differences in the process, potential employees want to look their best to prospective employers. When it comes to drivers, it’s all about the record. First of all, sooner or later, every driver completes and signs an employment application. Some carriers tout “mini-apps” or claim they take “oral-apps”; these are simply ways to speed up the process. Once in orientation, every driver completes a written application. These days, it may be in digital format and partially completed using information previously submitted, but it’s an application just the same. The reason is that Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations require the application to be in the drivers file, along with the driver’s consent for background checks, drug and alcohol screenings, and more. Applicants can speed up the process — and make a better impression — by having the information needed to complete the application, including a complete work history. Regulations require a carrier to have a list of all DOT-regulated jobs a driver has held in the past 10 years. For drivers who change jobs often, that could be a long list. Many applicants either don’t list all their employers or don’t provide complete information about previous jobs. This practice results in a delay in the hiring process while carrier representatives try to find the needed information. (Note: If you omit former employers, it can look like you’re trying to hide something. Busy recruiting departments may choose to move on to other candidates.) The best practice is to keep a list of former employers, complete with addresses and phone numbers. This list can be stored on your phone as a spreadsheet or PDF file. A less tech-savvy but effective method is to take a quick photo of the work history page(s) of your application, and keep that on your phone. The important thing is to keep the info where you can find it when needed. The government requires background checks to be completed for drivers, and carriers use several sources to conduct these. You should know what each report says about your record before the carrier sees it. Many sources for this information are consumer reporting agencies and fall under fair reporting rules, meaning you legally have access to your information. One of the first checks that will be made is with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV). It looks bad to claim you have no traffic violations on your application if your DMV reports that you do. State agencies do make errors, but problems can arise when you assume an old ticket is no longer on your record, or that a violation in another state wasn’t reported to your home state. Know what’s in your report. Order one from your DMV before you apply for the next job. Next is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. You’ll need to register at the Clearinghouse website and give consent for the carrier to check; you won’t be hired if you don’t consent. Go to clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov and click on the “register” button. At this time, you’ll also be able to see what’s in your record. Your record contains any positive drug or alcohol test results in the past three years, as well as whether you’ve completed any return-to-work programs after a positive test. Another report carriers use is the FMCSA Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) report, which shows your experiences at roadside inspections and other events as reported by law enforcement. Drivers are often surprised at the negative information these reports contain. For example, if the officer records that you were stopped for speeding, that shows up on the PSP — even if you didn’t get a ticket, got a warning or beat the charge in court. Other violations, such as improper lane use or following too closely, can quickly derail your application. Carriers can and do use this information to deny hire. Check your PSP annually at psp.fmcsa.dot.gov/psp/public. If there are discrepancies, there’s a process to request your record be corrected. Carriers can check your employment history by contacting former employers and by requesting an employment history report from one of the agencies that provide them. The most popular of these is the DAC Employment History Report from HireRight, commonly known as the “DAC Report.” Carriers will check to make sure the employment dates on your application match the report, whether the carrier reported your performance as “satisfactory,” and for any comments the carrier placed in your file. Comments often specify driver actions such as truck abandonment, misuse of company funds, excessive safety violations and more. You can get a free copy of your report at hireright.com or by calling 866-521-6995. If you disagree with anything listed in the report, you have the right to request that it be corrected. If the carrier refuses, you have the right to have your rebuttal statement included on the report. In short, you’ll avoid unwelcome surprises and get hired more quickly if your background reports, application and your comments all match up.

DTNA, Love’s expand partnership for Freightliner service points

The Trucker News Staff - February 1, 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY — Daimler Truck North America and Love’s Travel have announced “an exclusive strategic partnership” to provide select services for Freightliner vehicles at approved Love’s Truck Care and Speedco, according to a news release. Beginning this spring, authorized Love’s locations will provide light mechanical warranty repair work, roadside warranty emergency services and approved field service and recall campaigns for Freightliner trucks. “We know that time is money for professional drivers, and we’re excited to introduce a new service touch point to help get Freightliner drivers back on the road quickly,” Gary Price, executive vice president of total truck care solutions for Love’s, said. “Working with DTNA and Freightliner dealers, we will have the systems in place to maximize uptime for our mutual customers.” With more than 400 Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations, those approved for providing service offerings will work directly with their local Freightliner dealer to ensure parts availability, repair work and warranty claim filing. “Love’s is an experienced partner that knows how to fulfill our customers’ needs,” Drew Backeberg, senior vice president of aftermarket at DTNA, said. “With this complementary offering to our own service network, we will provide Freightliner customers the increased support and convenience they need to keep the world moving.” More information about this partnership and service offering details will be available in spring 2023. To learn more about Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations, visit www.loves.com/truckcare.

Truckstop, Bloomberg Intelligence survey shows carrier caution over demand, rates

The Trucker News Staff - February 1, 2023

BOISE, Idaho — Carriers are cautious about the outlook for demand and rates over the next six months as the spot market rebalances from a surge in capacity, according to the latest survey from Bloomberg and Truckstop, which polled owner-operators and small fleets. “Spot rates are not in-line with the higher costs facing carriers, which is weighing on owner-operators’ profits,” Lee Klaskow, senior freight transportation and logistics analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, said. “We expect the market to continue to rebalance with rates improving as early as 2Q.” The Bloomberg | Truckstop 4 Q22 Truckload Survey shows: • Owner-operators still split over demand: Owner-operators remain split about where demand is heading. About 30% of respondents expect load growth to decline over the next six months. • Rates expectations split among bulls and bears: Sentiment is split among owner-operators about where rates are headed. About 33% of respondents expect the rates to rise in the next six months, while 32% expect them to fall. Sentiment is slightly better than in 3Q. • Spot truckload demand skids in 4Q: 76% of respondents noticed a drop in demand, a drop from 3Q, with about 65% saying volume growth was down from a year earlier. “Owner-operators polled for this survey remain cautious, but spot rates are expected to show improvement as early as 2Q” Kendra Tucker, chief executive officer at Truckstop, said. “Truckstop provides owner-operators with the technology and solutions they need to keep their business moving and their bottom line growing regardless of the market conditions.” The Bloomberg | Truckstop survey of owner-operators and small fleets provides timely channel checks into the health of the spot market. The sample size was 113. It consists of dry-van, flatbed, temperature-controlled and specialized/diversified carriers. Of the respondents, 66% operate just one tractor. The complete survey is available to Bloomberg Terminal subscribers via BI.

Vander Haag’s Inc. expands into Dallas-Fort Worth market

The Trucker News Staff - January 30, 2023

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — HDA Truck Pride Member Vander Haag’s Inc. has expanded into the Dallas-Fort Worth market. This all-makes, all-models heavy duty truck parts store will be located at 4936 Sharp Street Dallas, Texas. “We are excited to bring our quality recycled truck parts to Texas, along with stocking a large array of new and rebuilt components,” Joe McIntire, chief product officer, said. “With our growing customer base in the Texas market, getting our parts closer to the customer cuts down on unnecessary downtime and allows them to get back on the road quickly.” Dallas joins Vander Haag’s other locations in Spencer, Des Moines, and Council Bluffs, Iowa; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Kansas City, Missouri, Winamac and Indianapolis, Indiana; Columbus, Ohio; and Louisville, Kentucky.

JX Enterprises appoints April Carlson to director of used trucks

The Trucker News Staff - January 27, 2023

HARTLAND, Wis. – JX Enterprises has appointed April Carlson, a 16-year veteran of the company, to director of used trucks. She will be responsible for pre-owned vehicle sales strategy, inventory control and pricing throughout the dealer group’s 28 JX Truck Center locations, according to a news release. “Throughout her impressive career with JXE, April has exceeded expectations in a variety of essential roles with increasing responsibility. She knows our company, she knows our industry and she has the skills, leadership and acumen to further strengthen our position as the leading pre-owned truck retailer,” JXE President and CEO Eric Jorgensen said. “We welcome April in her new role and are excited to see her vision implemented to bring our used-truck buyers new opportunities and advance the overall JX Customer Xperience.” Carlson most recent prior position was the company’s director of operations administration. She worked in prior management roles with the auditing and accounting departments. She has a master’s degree in business administration from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin. “I look forward to this new opportunity with JX Enterprises and to strategically guide the company’s performance in the ever dynamic used truck market,” Carlson said. “We have a best-in-class pre-owned truck sales force, backed by a strong supporting team and numerous resources, to drive our focus on delivering greater value to our customers.”