Business Archives

Using a factor can help cash flow, allowing owner-operators to focus on freight

Cliff Abbott - June 6, 2022

When it comes to operating your own trucking business, being a great driver isn’t enough. It takes more than driving skill to profitably manage a business. Successful owners know the various tasks necessary to keep the business running. They also know their limitations. For example, some owner-operators perform all the maintenance on their equipment. Everything from oil changes to engine rebuilds become do-it-yourself projects accomplished by the owner’s hand. Others, however, leave the wrenching to the professionals — or they handle the grease and oil but trust any projects requiring more knowledge or equipment to a local shop. When it comes to the cash flow of a trucking business, factors could be considered “money mechanics.” They understand the tasks of billing and collection, and can help truckers stay focused on serving their customers by handling some of the business duties the driver may not be comfortable with or have time to handle. It doesn’t matter how good the shipping service is if the trucker isn’t paid for it. After the delivery, the factor takes care of invoicing the customer and collecting payment. It may seem like an easy task, but owners who are on the road can’t always find time to complete an invoice and send it to the customer. And there’s more. Each open invoice must be tracked to make sure payment is received. After a period of time, another invoice needs to be sent, or the customer called, or both. If the customer still doesn’t pay, collection actions may be necessary. It can be a lot to keep track of while still performing driver duties. Even when the customer pays, it still takes time. Many businesses operate on a 30-day payment cycle, meaning the driver waits a month before payment is received. Others may have a 45- or 60-day cycle, making the wait even longer. Then, there are those that aren’t very good at keeping bills paid. They can lose invoices, forget payments and otherwise cause extra collecting effort. Factors not only keep track of all this; they can help with the waiting, too. That’s because most factors advance the payment to the trucking business. Some pay within hours of delivery, keeping cash flowing through the trucking business. The factor waits for payment, not the trucker. When considering a factoring service, when and how payments are made is an important detail. Options can include direct deposit into the trucker’s bank account, the assignment of funds to a fuel card or a prepaid debit card, or even mailing a check. As for the conditions for making payment, most factors are able to pay upon receipt of a photo of the paperwork. Those that require faxing or mailing of documents are behind the times. If the customer never pays, the trucker may have to pay back the advanced funds, but there’s a choice here, too. Factors often offer “recourse” or “nonrecourse” services. In nonrecourse agreements, the factor takes the loss if the customer doesn’t pay. Factoring service fees vary among businesses offering the service and are an important consideration when choosing a factor. In most cases, the factor simply keeps a percentage of the invoiced amount, or a flat fee plus a percentage. The fee goes up if the agreement is for nonrecourse billing, because the factor is assuming greater risk. Factors can also help the trucker decide which customers to accept. A great freight rate may look attractive, but if it comes from a shipper with a poor history of paying, the deal might not be so good. Factors can often help identify which shippers have poor payment histories, bad credit records and more. They can advise drivers about which customers to avoid, which take a long time to pay and so on. In cases where a shipper has failed to pay in the past, the factor may simply decline to advance any funds based on the load; this action protects both trucker and the factor. It’s important to ask the factor whether they allow “spot” factoring. Some factors require the trucking business to use their services for all loads they haul. However, some trucking businesses have certain customers that are very good about paying on time. In these cases, the owner may want to deal directly with the customer, avoiding the additional step and expense of involving a factor. They might prefer using the factor for loads from new or occasional shippers they haven’t established a relationship with. Ancillary services are another area to ask a prospective factor about. Most factoring businesses offer additional services, either directly or through partnerships with other businesses. Free credit checks are one such service; fuel cards are another. Some owner-operators carry large amounts of cash for fuel purchases, while others use credit cards that charge high interest rates if the bill isn’t paid off by the due date. Factoring services can offer fuel cards with smaller fees and no interest, saving money and keeping the businesses debt down. In some cases, fuel cards come with discounted pricing on fuel, oil, tires and other items and services. Some factors can assist with emergency cash needs, too. Expensive repairs, such as an engine rebuild, can sideline a trucking business if the owner can’t fund the work. Some drivers turn to predatory lenders who offer quick cash, sometimes in a single day. Often, these lenders charge exorbitant fees along with high interest rates. Some lenders insist on access to the business bank account so they can make withdrawals without the owner’s input. Factors may provide low- or no-interest solutions to help owners get the business back up and running. Others partner with firms that help manage programs to keep the business viable. Anyone doing business with a factor should carefully read the agreement paperwork. Some factors impose fees for certain actions — including a fee to terminate the agreement. It’s best to understand all rates and fees from the beginning of the relationship. Factors can smooth out cash flow for trucking businesses, allowing the owner to concentrate on the business of moving freight. Factors can also help owner-operators make sound business decisions and can help when things go wrong.

Walmart adding 4 fulfillment centers, more than 4,000 jobs

The Trucker News Staff - June 3, 2022

Walmart is adding four new fulfillment centers to its existing capacity, a move that will bring more than 4,000 jobs and make next- or two-day shipping available to more Americans. The announcement comes at a time when consumers are relying on packages being shipped to their homes more than ever before. While online ordering has continued to increase over the years, the pandemic saw a huge surge in such orders as Americans stayed home during lockdowns and had essential items and other goods delivered to their doors. While coronavirus restrictions have eased, many consumers’ online ordering habits remain. Aside from a growth in online orders, Walmart and other retailers are trying to make sure that their shipping speed keeps pace with rival Amazon, which offers same-day, one-day and two-day delivery options for those who pay for its Prime membership. Walmart said Friday that its four next generation fulfillment centers will be built over the next three years. The centers, which feature robotics and machine learning, double the capacity and number of orders allowed to be fulfilled in a day. The four fulfillment centers will be able to provide 75% of the U.S. population with next- or two-day shipping on millions of items, including Marketplace items shipped by Walmart fulfillment services. When combined with its traditional fulfillment centers, Walmart said it can reach 95% of the U.S. population with next- or two-day shipping. The company can offer same-day delivery to 80% of the U.S. population when using the inventory and capabilities available at its stores. The first next generation fulfillment center will open over the summer in Joliet, Illinois, 45 miles southeast of Chicago. Another one will open next spring in McCordsville, Indiana, 20 miles northeast of Indianapolis. A third one is set to open in 2024 in Greencastle, Pennsylvania. Walmart currently has 31 dedicated eCommerce fulfillment centers, 4,700 stores and 210 distribution centers.

Demand for new trucks still high but orders dropped in May, analysts say

The Trucker News Staff - June 3, 2022

COLUMBUS, Ind., and BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — According to preliminary figures from ACT Research and FTR, net orders of Class 8 trucks declined in May. Both agencies will publish final data for May in mid-June. ACT’s State of the Industry: Classes 5-8 Vehicles report shows 14,000 net orders of Class 8 trucks for the month, while orders for Class 5-7 trucks were 17,000 units. According to Eric Crawford, vice president and senior analyst at ACT, orders of new trucks tend to be weaker this time of year because OEMs typically have not yet opened their forward-year build schedules. “May’s sequential decline in Class 8 orders from April actually reflects some mild improvement on a seasonally adjusted basis,” he stated. “So, despite broader macro uncertainty about Russia/Ukraine, interest rates and potential recession, the prevailing theme in trucks is largely unchanged — long backlogs and supply-chain constrained production continue to keep new orders trending within a narrow range.” FTR reports are not as optimistic, noting that preliminary Class 8 net orders for May dipped to 13,300 units — the lowest total since November 2021 — and were down 13% from April and down 43% from May 2021. That’s not to say demand for new trucks is low, according to Don Ake, FTR’s vice president of commercial vehicles. “Demand for new trucks remains healthy,” he noted. “Freight is growing and fleets need more trucks to keep up with customer demands and to trade in older vehicles. The supply of new trucks has been running way behind demand for over a year now and many fleets need to catch up to their replacement cycles.” Both Crawford and Ake point to shortages of parts and materials, as well as supply chain snarls, as key issues for vehicle manufacturers. “With Class 8 backlogs stretching through 2022 and still no clear visibility on the easing of the all-things shortage, May’s net orders reflect a mild upside surprise, albeit one still in line with the ongoing conservative approach by OEMs looking to limit the risk of overbooking and underbuilding that plagued the industry in 2021,” Crawford said. “The supply chain was making slight improvements in the last few months, but some of that progress stalled due to disruptions in China and Russia. The OEMs are not confident they can increase production in the second half of the year; therefore, they are not able to take more orders,” Ake noted. “This is like ticket sales for a popular concert,” he continued. “At the beginning, sales are high because there are plenty of seats available. But at the end, fewer tickets are sold because there are fewer seats to sell. There just aren’t many build slots still open in 2022. Orders could even slide under 10,000 in the summer months before the cycle begins for next year.”

More than half of drivers not looking for new job, survey shows

The Trucker News Staff - June 2, 2022

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — A large portion of truck drivers are not seeking new jobs, according to the latest driver survey released by Conversion Interactive Agency and People. Data. Analytics (PDA). Conversion Interactive Agency and PDA surveyed professional truck drivers on a variety of driver concerns to gather insights about topics ranging from the equipment and parts shortage, truck parking, what they are looking for in job descriptions and what online content is influencing their job search. For the second year, more than half of the surveyed drivers claim they are not currently looking for a new driving job. According to the survey, 37.4% said they are currently looking for a job —up almost 3% from November 2021, when 34.6% of drivers indicated they were looking for a job. “This is a pivotal moment for the trucking industry. We are living in the digital age of driver recruiting and carriers that have not adopted innovative technologies are going to fall behind,” said Kelley Walkup, president and CEO of Conversion Interactive Agency. “Truck drivers are creating online communities and basing their career choices on the reviews of other drivers. They are using social and digital media to look for new driving jobs, and the technology is constantly evolving.” In addition, 71.6% of drivers surveyed said the most influential factor when choosing a carrier to drive for is online reviews from other drivers. Monitoring online reviews is becoming a critical piece of driver recruitment. “Monitoring and responding to online driver reviews is essential to the success of any driver-recruiting effort,” Walkup said. “Articles, blogs and social media content are an underutilized strategy by carriers today. Drivers are consuming content online, so why shouldn’t it be about your carrier?” While technology is rapidly becoming a crucial factor, there is still a strong desire for human interaction during the recruitment process. Almost 60% of drivers claim they prefer a phone call to electronic communication when communicating with driver recruiters during the recruiting process. “Driving a truck can be a lonely operation, so it’s no surprise that drivers have a strong need for human interaction,” Walkup said. “However, employing advanced technology to nurture your leads can drive an increased amount of connection between your recruiters and prospective drivers.” The driver survey data download includes information on a variety of factors impacting drivers today, including not only driver communication topics, but also other challenges facing the industry. While the equipment shortage and parts supply chain issues continue to affect carriers, most drivers do not seem to be feeling the impact, with 55% of drivers saying the equipment/parts shortage is not affecting their job. “While a majority of drivers do not seem to feel the effect of the equipment shortage, a significant number of drivers indicated the shortage is affecting their pay via a decrease in miles, as well as having to keep trucks longer,” said Scott Dismuke, vice president of operations for PDA. “Aging fleets mean more maintenance; more maintenance means drivers are in the shop more frequently,” he continued. “If drivers are in the shop and not logging miles, their pay will suffer, so maintenance departments will be key to driver retention throughout the rest of the year.” In the survey, drivers also weighed in on the parking shortage and how long it normally takes them to find parking. More than half of the drivers surveyed indicated it takes them 30 minutes or less to find parking, while 45% of the drivers said it takes more than thirty minutes to locate parking. “While we clearly know from other data and surveys that parking is a problem, the results of this survey seem to indicate that drivers that don’t plan ahead are the ones that have the biggest issue finding parking,” Dismuke said. “These results do show that drivers would appreciate some assistance with parking in the form of paying for parking or providing parking locations,” he continued. “When it comes to parking, carriers could do more to set their drivers up for success by offering additional training on trip planning.” Driver retention continues to be a challenge for motor carriers, regardless of the economy. “Driver retention is not easy and is really affected at the individual driver level,” Dismuke said. “Carriers need to know their data, know what their drivers are saying, and more importantly who is saying it. Carriers that can quickly identify and quickly intervene with drivers who are having issues will be at an advantage.”

Safety Series: Dash cameras can provide inexpensive and effective protection to drivers

Cliff Abbott - June 2, 2022

If you’re still driving without a dash camera, you’re missing out on some of the best protection you can get for your driving record. Dash cameras can provide exoneration for the driver at the scene of an accident and can help defend against liability claims later. They can very quickly remove the “he said/she said” from accident claims by showing events exactly as they occurred. Some motor carriers require dash cameras in their trucks. Some install video systems with multiple cameras to record what’s happening in front of, alongside, behind and even inside the cab of a truck. Although many drivers object to being recorded while they work, the information provided by these systems can be invaluable in protecting the carrier. The issue with most of these systems is that the cameras — and the video they record, along with data saved with it — belong to the carrier or company providing the service rather than to the driver. The driver may or may not have access to the videos. Owning your own dash camera is a good way to ensure you’ll have access to some video of any incidents or events. Dash cameras can do more than keep you out of trouble after an accident. Regularly reviewing the recorded incidents and documenting what you learned and corrected may also help with your insurance rates. Most dash cameras constantly record video, breaking it into small segments that can be anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes long. Video is saved when an “incident” is detected or when you specify. Depending on the camera, an incident can be anything from a hard brake or swerve to an impact with another object. Video that isn’t saved is eventually recorded over when the camera’s memory card fills up. Saved videos may be placed in different files, depending on whether the device detected an incident, or the driver deliberately saved it. Although you can find cameras for sale in truck stops, there are none that are made especially for trucks. Any quality camera will do, but there are a few things to look for. The process of saving video on a camera should be easy to remember. In addition to accidents, dash cams have recorded things like airplane crashes, volcano eruptions and even meteors flashing across the viewing area. Make sure the process for saving video is easy to perform, such as pushing a single button. Some systems will continue recording after the vehicle is parked, but most have a very small amount of battery power and will shut down quickly if the power supply is disconnected. To record incidents that happen while you are parked, be sure the power supply does not switch off with the ignition. Consider the camera’s field of view. While the camera may be aimed to the front, incidents can happen in adjoining lanes alongside the hood. A camera with a 140-degree field of view won’t cover as wide an area as one with 170 or 180 degrees. Resolution is important, too. The higher the resolution, the more detail is recorded, and the more the video or photo can be enlarged. This could be important in capturing a vehicle’s tag number or even identifying the driver of a vehicle. You’ll want a 1,080 resolution at a minimum. Be careful of terms like “HD” — they don’t always relate to a higher resolution. The type of memory used by the camera is another consideration. Choose a model that records to an SD or mini-SD card. Often, it’s much faster and easier to remove an SD card and plug it in to your laptop or tablet than to download everything on the camera. Most importantly, the video on the card belongs to you, so you’ll have the choice of whether to share it with others. Plan to replace the SD card every year or so, since the process of recording over and over will eventually cause the card to fail. Another feature to look for is a smartphone app that connects with the camera. The camera will be equipped with either a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection that allows you to change camera settings, delete video and perform other functions. The display screen on the cameras is often very small, so viewing video on your phone provides a better view. If you’re within range, you can even show the video to a law enforcement officer or someone else while you’re outside of the truck. Smartphone apps can also make it easy to email photos or videos to safety officials and insurance companies, should it be necessary to do so. Many cameras are equipped with GPS systems that can embed your location, speed and other details into the video. This additional evidence can be helpful — but it can also harm your case. For example, an accident may be entirely the fault of the other driver, but the video recorded your speed at just a few miles over the limit. That information might be used against you in court and could impact the verdict. Some dash cameras allow you to turn this feature off. If it’s important to you, look for this ability. Audio is another feature offered by some cameras. Some drivers prefer audio recording for conversations with law enforcement officials or others, but beware: Recording conversations may not be legal in all jurisdictions. It’s also possible the audio feature could record something you don’t want a jury to hear, such as a phone conversation you were having or the unkind words you were screaming just before impact, or even that awful music you were playing on the radio. Make sure you can turn off the audio recording. If your truck has to be towed following an incident, remember to remove the SD card — or the entire camera — before leaving the truck. Many towing companies do not allow access to a towed vehicle until all towing and storage fees are paid in full, and you might not be able to retrieve the video you need.

Rand McNally publishes its annual atlas for professional drivers

The Trucker News Staff - June 1, 2022

CHICAGO — Rand McNally released on Wednesday the latest edition of its printed Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas. Designed specifically for professional truck drivers, the Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas has offered resources for the commercial transportation community for more than 40 years. Each edition of the atlas includes updated state and national truck-accessible roadways, the latest state-by-state regulations, fuel tax charts, truck-restricted routes and more. The new edition, which comes in paperback as well as a spiral-bound version with write-on/wipe-off laminated pages, is available at travel centers, in bookstores, on e-commerce sites and through Rand McNally’s online store. There is also a large-print version with maps that are 37% than in the standard versions. “The Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas has been a trusted tool for professional drivers for decades,” said Aaron Dannenbring, CEO of Rand McNally. “In addition to focusing on electronics and vehicle technology, Rand McNally will continue to research, update and publish this valuable staple.” Key updates for 2022 year include: Amended U.S. highway route numbers and highway bypasses, updated based on results from a recent meeting of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The inclusion of mileage-based exit numbers in Connecticut (Routes 9, 11, 17, and 72) and along the Hutchinson River Parkway in New York State. The extension of the Southern Parkway (UT-7) in southwestern Utah near St. George. The addition of Interstate 49 (Bella Vista bypass), which connects the interstate between Missouri and Arkansas. Revised restricted routes, low-clearance and weigh station locations An updated fuel tax chart, as well as revised state and province information, including weight and size limitations, registration guidelines and phone numbers and websites for state police and operating authorities. An updated review of hazardous materials regulations.

Forward Air’s first Drive for Hope Golf Tournament raises $375,000 to help veterans

The Trucker News Staff - June 1, 2022

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. — During its first Drive for Hope Golf Tournament, Forward Air raised $375,000 to benefit Hope for the Warriors’ Drive for Hope program. The tournament, organized by Forward Air’s charitable platform, Operation Forward Freedom, was held May 18-19, 2022, at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Braselton, Georgia. Founded in 2006, Hope For The Warriors is a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a sense of self, family and hope for post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families. The organization’s Drive for Hope program is a comprehensive driving program designed to help injured service members and veterans regain independence and the freedom to drive through rehabilitation and behind-the-wheel training in adaptive vehicles. “Thousands of our current and former Forward teammates served our country,” said Tom Schmitt, chairman, president and CEO of Forward Air. “We are honored to tip our hats to them and give back to our veterans in tandem with our partners from Hope For The Warriors.” Forward Air’s Drive for Hope Golf Tournament also featured a silent auction, guest speakers, an opening ceremony with a color guard presentation, and celebrity guests, including former Major League Baseball players Doug Flynn and Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. “We can change lives with a partner like Forward Air,” said Robin Kelleher, president and CEO of Hope for the Warriors. “Operation Forward Freedom aligns directly with our mission and the money raised at this event will positively impact the lives of military families across the country by restoring a sense of independence back on the road.”

CR England reports cybersecurity breach

Linda Garner-Bunch - June 1, 2022

SALT LAKE CITY — Trucking company C.R. England Inc. reported a data breach affecting as many as 224,572 individuals. According to an official filing by the company, the breached information includes affected parties’ names and Social Security numbers. On May 23, C.R. England filed official notice of the breach and sent out data breach letters to all affected parties. “If you received a data breach notification, it is essential you understand what is at risk and what you can do about it,” said attorney J.D. Supra. “Receiving a data breach letter can be a bit alarming, and for good reason, as it means that a total stranger—and potentially a criminal — accessed your personal data. Given the risks involved, it is important you remain vigilant after a data breach… .” Supra said there are steps to take if someone’s information has been leaked. Click here to read more. Based on a May 23 letter to those impacted by the breach, C.R. England reports that on Oct. 30, 2021, the company first detected unauthorized activity across its computer systems. Upon learning of the intrusion, the company secured its systems and worked to terminate the unauthorized access. C.R. England also secured the assistance of third-party cybersecurity professionals to investigate the incident. The investigation into the C.R. England breach confirmed that sensitive consumer information was contained in the affected files. Subsequently, the company reviewed all the files to determine the nature of the compromised information and who it belonged to. C.R. England completed this process on April 20, confirming that the names and social security numbers of 224,572 people were accessible to the unauthorized party. On May 23, C.R. England sent out data breach letters to all individuals whose information was compromised as a result of the recent data security incident.

Boss Truck Shop opens new Ohio location

The Trucker News Staff - May 27, 2022

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Boss Truck Shop, Inc. is opening a full-service truck repair, maintenance and tire shop location in Hubbard, Ohio. The shop is at exit 234/234B along Interstate 80 at the Truck World Truck Stop. The Hubbard shop will offer roadside assistance services and is connected to the Boss Truck Shop network with a 24/7 call center, according to a news release. The Hubbard location brings the total number of Boss Truck Shop locations to 48 in 24 states. Every Boss Truck Shop location services any-size fleet as well as owner/operators. The Hubbard shop is equipped with three indoor bays to perform services from: Preventative maintenance Computerized engine diagnostics Engine repair Boss Truck Shop offers all major tire and oil brands, in addition to used tires and retreads.

Newsweek recognizes Roadrunner as one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies 2022

The Trucker News Staff - May 26, 2022

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – Roadrunner, a nationwide less-than-truckload carrier specializing in long-haul metro-to-metro shipping, has been recognized in Newsweek’s inaugural list of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies 2022. “We have come a long way,” Roadrunner President Frank Hurst said. “Trust is the pillar of any business, and we are proud that we are being recognized for the work we have done to rebuild it with our customers and business partners. These are the results a service-oriented culture produces.” Newsweek partnered with Statista to evaluate public companies with over $500 million in revenue through an extensive survey of approximately 50,000 residents and 110,000 evaluations. Four hundred companies were chosen on criteria including investor, customer and employee trust for a holistic approach. “Our Roadrunner team has spent tremendous energy and effort for the past two years in building trust with our customers, our business partners and our employees,” Roadrunner Executive Chairman of the Board Chris Jamroz said. “This starts with our culture of governance and internal controls. We prioritize safety and regulatory compliance, which is a core focus throughout our company. We are humbled to be recognized so quickly for these changes and we will continue to focus on delivering positive results.”

World Distribution Services adds capacity to new facility near Port of New York/New Jersey

The Trucker News Staff - May 26, 2022

LINDEN, N.J. — World Distribution Services has announced enhancements to its new Linden, New Jersey-based distribution facility, providing additional warehouse capacity to the New York/New Jersey port community. Additional racking to maximize available space will allow for more than 20,000 racked positions and 200,000 square feet for bulk storage. Due to the record-breaking demand brought on by global supply chain disruption, the Linden facility began accepting cargo shortly after signing the contract to operate the space. It has been operating at full capacity, prompting the move to add space through the racking system enhancement. “This is, in effect, our ‘grand opening’ though we have been busy servicing customers and adding space for the last six to ten months,” Dale Young, WDS vice president of warehousing and distribution, said. The warehouse also offers: A fully staffed and operational facility; E-commerce capability; Traditional transload; and Seven-day a week operation. “WDS experienced considerable growth in 2020, despite the logistics and supply chain challenges created by the global pandemic,” Young said. “Our commitment to honor customer requests to handle more volume, and the import boom prompted us to accelerate our expansion plans close to the vibrant New Jersey container terminals. We anticipate the partnership opportunities that will optimize this space.” WDS President Duncan Wright stresses the company’s growth plans: “We believe in the future of warehousing and distribution at major port hubs across the U.S. Recent world events and constant volatility within the container supply chain have highlighted the importance of having partners in port markets. WDS provides the right level of service, expertise, and support as customers look for e-commerce, transload, or distribution solutions.” Featuring a 40-foot clear height, 90 dock doors, and ample parking for trailers, the new warehouse is equipped to partner with customers on a variety of logistics and e-commerce needs.

CarriersEdge adds online training courses for auto-haulers

The Trucker News Staff - May 26, 2022

NEWMARKET, Ontario – CarriersEdge has unveiled a series of online training courses for auto-hauler drivers. The new suite includes “Auto-Hauler Cargo Inspection” and “Vehicle Inspections – Stinger Steer” courses. A third course, dedicated to unloading cargo, is scheduled for release this summer. “Auto-hauling is a specialty area with unique needs. There is a lack of written information available to auto-hauler drivers, as standard tractor-trailer courses do not offer enough relevant information,” Mark Murrell, president of CarriersEdge, said. “There was a need for auto-hauler courses that walk drivers through inspection procedures and detailed the best practices for completing these inspections.” The “Auto-Hauler Cargo Inspection” course outlines how to properly conduct vehicle inspection, identify damage or defects on the vehicles being transported and how to accurately report exceptions. After completing this course, drivers will be able to: Perform delivery inspections both during and after business hours Use multiple viewpoints to spot vehicle damage Recognize the difference between common defects like scratches, gouges, dents, and chips Record damages and defects, including steps for photographing issues and informing the customer or yard supervisor Stinger steers are unique vehicles with distinct parts that drivers need to regularly inspect. The “Vehicle Inspections – Stinger Steer” course outlines what drivers need to look for, specific to their vehicle, to ensure compliance with regulations and to remain safe when transporting cargo. Through this course, drivers will learn: Regulations for vehicle inspections Details on inspecting decks, ramps, and hydraulic components How to complete a Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR in the U.S.) Both auto-hauler courses incorporate a combination of 3D models and real photographs, providing drivers with a complete picture of the vehicle and what to look for. The courses include inspection “hotspots” detailing how to inspect each area.

Berylls Strategy Advisors releases analysis of global trucking industry

The Trucker News Staff - May 25, 2022

DETROIT — Following several tumultuous years for the trucking industry, Berylls Strategy Advisors, a global management consulting firm focused on the automobility industry, has completed a Q1 2022 market analysis that reviews the challenges of 2021 while offering insights for the future. Looking at global trucking companies including Daimler, Traton, Volvo and PACCAR, the analysis reveals several key findings about the state of the industry. Overall, truck demand recovered quickly after the height of the COVID-19 crisis. Cumulated order intakes and average book-to-bill ratios of 1.49 were at an all-time high in 2021. However, order intake in Q1 2022 was down 11% year-over-year due to uncertain supply chains and massive inflation. Truck manufacturers continue to suffer from an undersupply of essential components, including semiconductors and wiring harnesses. On the positive side, global truck players increased revenue in industrial business by nearly 25% compared to Q1 2021, and cumulative operating profit (adjusted) is 8.6% above Q1 2021. “The situation on the global truck markets remains unusual,” Martin French, Berylls’ U.S. managing director, said. “Demand is much higher than supply, and inflation is impacting the sales side of the business. While there are vehicle production hurdles to overcome, these are not the worst conditions to boost profits.” Additional Key Findings Supply chains remain uncertain: The Russian-Ukraine war has added more uncertainty to already stressed global supply chains, which have only begun to recover from the sharp market decline in Q2 2020. With Shanghai being locked down due to Covid-19, there are significant risks looking forward. No signs of weakness on the demand side: Although there are signs of an economic slowdown on the horizon, the need for new trucks remains considerably high. There is massive pent-up demand and a huge order backlog — 2022 production is sold out. German OEMs have work to do: While Volvo and Paccar are very profitable with double-digit margins, Daimler and Traton need to improve performance, namely for Fuso, MAN and Navistar, which are below 5% return on sales. Click here to review the study in its entirety.

Penske Truck leasing opens new facility in Cranbury, New Jersey

The Trucker News Staff - May 24, 2022

READING, Pa. — Penske Truck Leasing has recently opened a new facility in Cranbury, New Jersey. Located at 2682 US 130 North, near exit 8 and 8A of the New Jersey Turnpike and U.S. Route 1, it is the first-ever ground-up build in its South Plainfield District, according to a news release. At this location, Penske offers consumer and commercial truck rental, full-service truck leasing and contract truck fleet maintenance. It is also outfitted with the company’s proprietary fully digital and voice-directed preventive maintenance process and Penske digital experience solutions, which help customers utilize Penske technology as well as options related to onboard technology systems (ELDs, telematics, onboard cameras, etc.). “We’ve outgrown the South Brunswick facility by 10-fold in the past 30-years,” Mike Duquette, New York Metro area vice president for Penske Truck Leasing, said. “When we first opened, the location serviced nearly 200 vehicles out of two truck bays – now, three decades later, we service over 2,000 vehicles out of three truck bays; this new state-of-the-art facility was eminent. The expansion of business occurred due to significant market growth in the region and the unparalleled service provided by Penske technicians and the district team to retain and grow the business.” The location is 22,995-square-feet and sits on 9.62 acres. It features five drive-thru bays with 10 service areas and is complimented by an additional 10 covered service areas hugging the facility. It also has an automated wash bay, and a full-service three lane fuel island. Penske currently employs over 40 associates at the new facility and is hiring truck technicians, fueler and wash bay attendants, along with customer service representatives and drivers locally and nationwide.

ACT Research: Dry Van Orders Responsible for U.S. Trailer Net Orders Decline in April

The Trucker News Staff - May 24, 2022

COLUMBUS, Ind. – April net U.S. trailer orders of 19,614 units decreased more than 48% from the previous month, but were 23% higher compared to April of 2021, according to this month’s issue of ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Trailer Report. ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers report provides a monthly review of the current US trailer market statistics, as well as trailer OEM build plans and market indicators divided by all major trailer types, including backlogs, build, inventory, new orders, cancellations, net orders and factory shipments. It is accompanied by a database that gives historical information from 1996 to the present, as well as a ready-to-use graph packet, to allow organizations in the trailer production supply chain, and those following the investment value of trailers, trailer OEMs, and suppliers to better understand the market. “Order placement remained choppy in April, and dry vans, with a 64% month-over-month slide in net, were responsible for the total industry decline,” Frank Maly, director–commercial vehicle transportation analysis and research at ACT Research, said. “Despite April’s drop, OEMs continue to negotiate with fleets and that effort is building a large group of staged/planned orders that are not yet officially posted to the backlog. Once OEMs gain sufficient confidence in their supply chain and labor availability to open 2023 production slots, expect a surge of orders to be ‘officially’ accepted.” Malay said the industry has normally not been willing to push their commitments past 12 months and crossing into a new calendar year this quickly would not normally be under consideration. “However, recent years, including the pandemic-battered 2020/21, have been anything but normal, leading us to expect some OEMs to begin viewing deeper order boards, with appropriate cost/price protections, which would result in both a competitive advantage and improved fleet relations,” Malay said. Malay said the order board slid sequentially in April, and we expect the backlog to contract as we move through late spring and early summer, but the yet-to-be-determined date for opening the 2023 order boards will reverse the backlog contraction and likely quickly extend the backlog well into next year.

Schneider highlights progress on key environmental, social initiatives in second annual report

The Trucker News Staff - May 23, 2022

GREEN BAY, Wis.– As part of its second annual corporate responsibility report, Schneider announced plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the company’s overall impact on the environment, along with other initiatives. “We recognize the importance of having a positive impact and sharing our process toward our ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals,” said Schneider President and CEO Mark Rourke. “This year’s report highlights our continued dedication to our core values and making meaningful change that will impact our associates, communities and stakeholders.” Key highlights from the 2021 Schneider Corporate Responsibility Report include: Sustainability — Schneider officials say they have achieved more than half of the company’s 2025 emissions goals and in 2021 announced the addition of 62 Freightliner eCascadia Class 8 electric trucks. Enabling efficiency for customers — Schneider works with customers to review network optimization, reduce empty miles, consolidate freight and pick the right mode of transportation. Corporate culture and a continued focus on safety as a number one priority — Schneider officials say they are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where associates are respected and valued by expanding recruiting practices, promoting associate well-being and focusing on career advancement and retention. The company also announced that the number of women in leadership and driver roles increased in 2021. Community engagement and giving — Through the Schneider Foundation, the company donated more than $2.25 million in grants to support local communities in 2021. The company’s DEI grant program, which kicked off in 2020, provided funding for diversity recruitment initiatives and partnerships with two Historically Black Colleges and Universities – Prairie View A&M and North Carolina A&T.

Market in transition as late-model heavy-duty sleeper trucks retain value while older model values decline

The Trucker News Staff - May 23, 2022

LINCOLN, Neb.— The latest Sandhills Global Market Report shows that as more late-model (0- to 5-year age group) sleeper trucks have entered the market, sleeper trucks in the 7-year or older age group have dropped in value more steeply than newer models. Year-over-year (YOY) auction values for sleeper trucks manufactured since 2015 decreased just 10 percentage points since the beginning of the year, while YOY auction values for sleeper trucks aged 7 years and older have posted 40% to 60% decreases over the same time frame. With a lack of new production to replace late-model sleeper trucks, asking values for used sleeper trucks made after 2017 remain positive, posting an 8% improvement since January. The key metric used in all of Sandhills’ market reports is the Sandhills Equipment Value Index (EVI). The Sandhills EVI data include equipment available in auction and retail markets, as well as model year equipment actively in use. Regional EVI data is available for the United States (and key geographic regions within) and Canada, allowing Sandhills to reflect machine values by location. U.S. Used Heavy-Duty Sleeper Truck Inventory Asking values have historically begun their decline when inventory levels turn; April marked the fifth straight month-over-month increase in heavy-duty sleeper truck inventory. April 2022 inventory levels were down 14.8% YOY, a dramatic improvement from March when inventory levels were down 33.9.% YOY. Heavy-duty sleeper trucks in the 7-year-plus age group historically represent 27% of the total sleeper truck inventory; as of April, that age group accounts for 36% of the total sleeper truck inventory. U.S. Used Heavy-Duty Sleeper Truck Values The Sandhills EVI indicates heavy-duty sleeper auction values increased 62.3% YOY, a 7-percentage point decrease from the start of the year when auction values were up 69% YOY. As shown in the graph, asking values for late-model sleeper trucks have displayed less decline than older models, likely due to the lack of new production available to replace the commercial trucks. While auction values for sleeper trucks manufactured prior to 2015 have declined sharply, posting 40- to 60-percentage point YOY decreases since January, asking prices for sleeper trucks in that age group have decreased by just 10 percentage points.

Commercial emergency roadside repair service expands along Oregon’s southern I-5 corridor

The Trucker News Staff - May 23, 2022

SUTHERLIN, Ore. – Fleet and commercial truck operators working Oregon’s southern Interstate 5 corridor between Creswell and Grants Pass who need emergency roadside repair now have 24/7 support from Mobile Diesel Service, a diesel repair company that’s been providing service in the region for more than 20 years. “We are elated to be able to provide trucking companies and owner-operators 24/7 emergency/on-site repair for breakdowns along this section of the Oregon’s I-5 corridor,” Shawn Smalley general manager of the family-owned diesel repair service headquartered in Sutherlin, said. “Joe Foss, the owner of ERS and a 30-year road vet, is now a valued member of our all-star team here at MDS, and he’ll continue handling our expanded southern service area.” The acquisition of ERS, LLC in Canyonville, allows MDS to provide 24/7 emergency roadside services to truckers operating along this heavily travelled southern I-5 corridor and connecting highways, according to a news release. “Our service technicians are well-versed in CAT, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Power Stroke and Duramax engines, as well as the drivetrains, chassis and suspensions in Class 5-8 big rigs, as well as diesel-powered pickups and RVs,” Smalley said.

Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment becomes first Volvo Trucks certified EV dealer in Texas

Joseph Price - May 20, 2022

FORT WORTH, Texas — Volvo Trucks North America dealer Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment in Fort Worth is the first Volvo Trucks Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) Dealer in the Lone Star State. As one of the largest and oldest Class 8 truck dealers in the country, Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment officials say they will leverage their experience to assist customers in the region by helping to integrate the zero-tailpipe emission Volvo VNR Electric model into their operations. “Together with our dealership partner Brucker’s Truck & Equipment, we are proud to add another key state to the roster of Volvo Trucks Certified EV Dealers,” Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America, said. “Texas is home to several key trucking corridors, and Bruckner’s Fort Worth dealership is well positioned to service fleet operators involved in local and regional goods movement, an ideal application for the Volvo VNR Electric truck.” As a third-generation family operated business, Bruckner’s has more than 30 dealership locations across seven states, each of which is a Volvo Certified Uptime Dealer. In addition, Bruckner’s has 33 mobile service trucks. Bruckner’s is working to achieve the Volvo Trucks Certified EV Dealer status at its other locations beyond Fort Worth, with eight technicians across multiple locations already having been trained to perform battery-electric truck maintenance and repairs. “Since 1932, Bruckner’s has invested in our people to provide the highest level of service. This is done through continuous training and development of our team to ensure our customers receive the best service possible. We are demonstrating this approach by completing training to be a Volvo Trucks Certified EV dealership,” Scott Hall, general manager of Bruckner’s Fort Worth location, said. “The entire Bruckner’s team is committed to investing in the latest technology and equipment. We are adopting tools for up-to-date communication with our customers and becoming certified up-time centers at all locations to help fleets manage their downtime and lower maintenance costs.” In a news release, Volvo Trucks officials said they designed the Volvo Trucks Certified EV Dealer program “to help its dealers ensure technicians understand the proper safety procedures when servicing electric drivetrains and components. Service team are fully trained to safely perform maintenance and repairs for battery-electric trucks in operation and equipped with personal protective equipment for working with high-voltage systems.” Bruckner’s Fort Worth dealership will maintain a stock of key parts and components for the VNR Electric model; in addition, heavy-duty-capable fast-chargers have been installed at the dealership to support customers.

Love’s adds 74 truck parking spaces at new Georgia location

The Trucker News Staff - May 19, 2022

OKLAHOMA CITY – Love’s Travel Stops is now serving customers in Springfield, Georgia, thanks to a travel stop that opened Thursday. The store, located on 2600 Georgia Highway 21 South, adds 74 truck parking spaces and 60 jobs to Effingham County. “Opening our 18th location in Georgia, means giving customers better access to clean and safe places while they’re on the road,” Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s, said. “The new Love’s in Springfield will offer plenty of fresh food, drink and snack options; travel accessories and more for professional and four-wheel drivers.” The location is open 24/7 and offers many amenities, including: More than 14,000 square feet. Chester’s Chicken (opening May 23) and McDonald’s (opening later). 74 truck parking spaces. 70 car parking spaces. Three RV parking spaces. Six diesel bays. Six showers. Laundry facilities. CAT scale. Bean-to-cup gourmet coffee. Brand-name snacks. Fresh Kitchen concept. Mobile to Go Zone with the latest GPS, headsets and smartphone accessories. Dog park. In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to Ebenezer Middle School.