Business Archives

Great Dane’s commitment to women in transportation yields coveted recognition

Dana Guthrie - November 1, 2024

CHICAGO, Ill — Great Dane has been named as a “Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation” for the second consecutive year by Redefining the Road magazine, Women in Trucking’s (WIT) official publication. “Working for a company recognized as a top workplace for women is truly an honor. It reflects our dedication to creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s contributions are valued. In the growing transportation industry, women are playing an increasingly important role, helping to drive innovation and shape the future,” said Brandie Fuller, Great Dane’s vice president of commercial excellence. According to a company press release, this also marks Great Dane’s second year to secure a spot on “The Elite 30” list, which recognizes companies with the most votes. “The women of Great Dane have made significant contributions to our company’s success throughout our celebrated history, enhancing our teams, improving our processes and products, and ultimately benefiting our customers,” said Rick Mullininx, president and COO of Great Dane. “We’re proud of this recognition because it highlights our commitment to fostering a culture where every team member is valued and respected, and we’re privileged to be recognized alongside other outstanding companies.” The process for companies to be recognized included a rigorous nomination and review procedure, followed by votes cast by more than 31,000 professionals in transportation including executive management, operations and talent management executives, professional drivers and manufacturing plant teams, according to the release.

What’s coming in trucking? A conversation with TCA Chair John Culp

Linda Garner-Bunch - November 1, 2024

By the end of the first week of November, a new administration will be set to take charge of the White House. The outcome of this year’s election is sure to be a topic of hot debate. Regardless of who sits in the Oval Office and what party controls the House and Senate, members of the trucking industry will remain focused on business as usual. The nation’s 3.6 million truck drivers will still be moving freight from Point A to Point B, working to ensure consumers have food on the shelves and that medical facilities are properly supplied. In this Chat with the Chairman, TCA Chairman John Culp shares insights on issues impacting the industry. Q: In the past weeks, Hurricane Helene has had a huge impact on the Southeastern U.S. with widespread destruction and highways washed away. In what ways is this impacting the trucking industry? A: I believe companies have been able to reroute most traffic lanes around road closures and freight is moving again, but only essential travel into and within western North Carolina is allowed. The North Carolina DOT is saying that all roads in Western North Carolina should be considered closed, including I-40 and I-26 to Tennessee. Hopefully a few routes will be available by the time this edition of Truckload Authority is out. The supply chain will remain disrupted, and the route changes come with more miles and time. It will get better as bridges and roads are repaired — but the reality is it is going to take a long time to fully recover. Some reports say it will take over a year to reopen I-40. The roads WILL be repaired, and the supply chain WILL recover, but the losses to the people and families impacted by this devastating and deadly storm are still being felt now, and for many, will be forever. Q: With heavy trucks unable to even access many storm-damaged areas, how can members of the trucking industry help the victims of this and other disasters? A: During natural disasters, I am proud to say that the trucking industry is always among the first to respond with relief, delivering water, food, gas, clothing, supplies and building materials. I have seen reports from state trucking associations in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Alabama where truckers have responded and worked around the clock to deliver essential and critical supplies to people in need. I know that other state associations and truck drivers from all across the country are giving their time and resources also to help our fellow Americans in this time of need. There are food shortages, water shortages, fuel shortages — basically everything. Many people have lost not just their homes and material possessions, but also family and friends to Helene. Assistance will be needed for a long time. If you want to help, there are many great charitable organizations on the scene that need your support. One organization that I support is Samaritan’s Purse which is based in Boone, North Carolina. They are responding and providing relief in six locations across four states. There is also a supply chain logistics organization that was created subsequent to Hurricane Katrina, the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN). They do this with the help of the logistics community who make essential donations of transportation, warehousing, material equipment or expertise. The cold, hard reality is that this is a long-term deal — and the hurricane and storm season isn’t over yet. It’s going to cause delays and added costs. Q: At 12:01 a.m. on October 5, with the nation still reeling from the impact of Hurricane Helene, members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) union at ports along the East and Gulf coasts went on strike. For now, the strike has been put “on hold” and the existing contract extended to January 15, 2024. What are your thoughts on the timing of the strike and its potential impact on the supply chain, and on the truckload industry in particular? A: First of all, a prolonged strike would have a tremendously negative impact on every link in the supply chain, including the trucking industry. The ILA represents about 45,000 workers in 36 ports from Maine to Texas, and workers from about a dozen of those ports walked. A temporary truce was called on Oct. 4, and the ILA ordered its members to return to work, at least until after the first of the year. This averted a major crisis during the world’s peak shipping season, when the freight industry is already scrambling to meet the demands of shippers and consumers. While I respect the union’s right to strike, I do not believe they should be allowed to severely disrupt our country’s supply chain and hold the entire nation hostage — and that’s exactly what they will do if they strike again. According to various sources, it would cost the U.S. economy anywhere from $3.8 to $4.5 billion a day. If an agreement is not reached by the mid-January deadline, the impact could be staggering. Q: As a refresher, please review the issues between the ILA and the U.S. Maritime Alliance. A: Certainly. In a nutshell, it comes down to money and job security. The ILA rejected the Alliance’s offer of a 50% wage increase, holding out for a 77% increase over the contract period. The strike was suspended when a tentative agreement was reached that would increase worker’ wages by 62% over the life of the six-year contract. But they still oppose the implementation of any form of automation that could replace human workers. To me, that simply is not feasible! Technological advances and at least some degree of automation are now a part of everyday life. I don’t have any sympathy for them if they choose to strike again. They have a great deal that will take them through any economic ups and downs for six years. There is no way that truckload trucking companies would or could negotiate a 62% raise to its employees, especially in the difficult economic times we are navigating in. Q: That leads to my next question. In your opinion, should the federal government involve itself in these or any labor negotiations? A: The government has the authority to call a halt to strikes and step in to settle labor disputes, and they have done so before. Generally, it’s best for all parties involved that the government NOT be involved. However, when a dispute puts the entire nation’s supply chain at risk, it’s a different situation. Obviously, if the ports are shut down it prevents both imports and exports, and that can easily lead to disaster around the globe. When the possible impact of a labor dispute is this widespread, I believe the government’s involvement is needed. I’m hopeful the ILA and the Alliance will reach an agreement and that there won’t be any further disruptions to the supply chain. Time will tell. Q: Another issue that remains top of mind for the trucking industry is the prevalence of “nuclear” verdicts. We’ve discussed the topic before, but it bears revisiting, especially in light of recent reports of high-dollar awards against transportation companies and equipment manufacturers. Do you have any insights to share? A: There are three recent cases that immediately come to mind — two equipment manufacturers and a motor carrier. On September 5, a St. Louis jury awarded a total of $462 million — $450 million in punitive damages and $6 million each to the families of two men who were killed in 2019 when their car crashed into the rear of a tractor-trailer. The suit claimed the manufacturer of the 2004-model trailer, Wabash National, was liable because the trailer did not meet current safety standards. However, Wabash says, the trailer exceeded safety specifications at the time of its manufacture. In addition, there were extenuating circumstances under which no rear underride guard could have prevented the deaths. The judge did not allow the defense to introduce relevant information that could likely have resulted in a different verdict. According to police records, the car was traveling at 55 mph when it struck the stopped trailer, neither occupant was wearing a seat belt, and the driver was intoxicated. On September 6, an Alabama jury found Daimler Truck liable to the tune of $160 million in a case filed by the driver of a 2023 Western Star 4700 who was rendered a quadriplegic following a rollover accident. The lawsuit alleged that both the driver’s seat and the roof of the cab were defective and did not meet safety standards. Daimler maintains that its products actually exceed safety standards. Our legal system is really messed up when juries award “lottery jackpot” verdicts to victims involved in accidents where companies that manufacture goods that meet government safety standards and have no fault in the accident or fatalities. More recently — and I don’t have all the details — an Arkansas jury hit Kroger Logistics with a $150 million verdict in the death of a 20-year-old firefighter who was struck and killed by a semi-truck after stopping to assist at the scene of an accident. Unfortunately, accidents happen and sometimes people are seriously or fatally injured. When this happens, our legal system allows the injured party to seek recovery and/or damages from the party who was responsible for the accident. This is a good thing, but nuclear verdicts are out of control and are unsustainable for trucking companies. Our industry must educate the public on what is happening and the impact it has on consumers. These exorbitant costs are being passed on and are showing up in every product that trucking companies haul. Tort and litigation reform are sorely needed, but it’s an uphill battle. It is generally a state issue, but trucking is regulated by the federal government because of its importance to interstate commerce and trucking accidents should be adjudicated in the federal court system also. This would be a great step forward. Q: The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2027 deadline in the journey to zero emissions is growing closer. What are your thoughts on shifting the trucking industry away from diesel engines toward battery-electric power? A: First of all, the price of a battery-electric truck is two to three times more than a regular diesel, so of course, the cost of transportation is going to jump. Then there’s the fact that the nation’s power grid is nowhere near ready to handle the charging stations. Different parts of the country struggle with electricity shortages on a regular basis, so where will all the power needed to charge these trucks come from? Even if the charging infrastructure were already in place, there are other problems. These batteries take several hours to charge, and today drivers can’t be in the vehicle while it’s charging. So, those four to 10 hours of charging time will have to be logged as on-duty time for drivers. That’s a tremendous loss of time, especially when the range of electric trucks is so limited. There are countless other hurdles too, like the cost of tires. Electric vehicles are hard on tires, with all the starting and stopping, plus the added weight of the battery. I’ve talked to a few drivers who are running electric trucks, and they’ve mentioned that the tire wear is awful. Q: We’ve been hearing a lot about advances in the field of the internal combustion engine (ICE), with manufacturers working to produce engines that can be powered by alternative fuel sources. Could this be a viable alternative to reduce emissions in trucking? A: Engines powered by renewable diesel will literally give us the most bang for the buck — and in addition, offer a substantial reduction in life cycle carbon emissions over battery electric vehicles. ICEs should be an integral part of a comprehensive long-term solution in meeting our environmental responsibilities. Q: How is TCA working to find solutions for the trucking industry, not only regarding emissions, but also other issues? A: At TCA, we’re working very hard to bring issues to light on Capitol Hill. In addition to meetings throughout the year, we set aside a day each fall for our Call on Washington and visit with legislators and their staffs about real-world solutions. Emissions and EPA regulations were a huge part of this year’s conversations on the Hill. As an industry, it’s very important that we work with the leaders in Washington to advance the issues that are important to us. Our job is to work with whoever is in power to provide information relevant to trucking and advocate for the industry and the supply chain as a whole. I would say that one of TCA’s best value propositions for our members is providing a voice in Washington. Effecting change takes time and effort. We want to bring about productive safety improvements in the industry. We want the supply chain to be more efficient. Q: I’m sure the TCA team is already hard at work to plan next year’s annual convention. Do you have information to share? A: Truckload 2025 is set for March 15-18 in Phoenix. It’s going to be a great program, and I encourage every member to attend. In addition to unbeatable educational opportunities, we’ll be featuring inspiring speakers and plenty of opportunities for benchmarking and networking. As always, the exhibit hall will showcase the latest trends and technologies, along with business solutions to help your company thrive. One of TCA’s primary objectives is to help our members be financially sustainable. With that in mind, we work to ensure our meetings and conventions are beneficial as well as entertaining. Q: The holidays are almost upon us. Do you have any thoughts to share with TCA members? A: It’s been a challenging year, and the truckload industry is facing more uncertainty in the coming year. I don’t know when things will get better, but I know that they will. As I think about the blessings I’ve been given, I’m thankful for the TCA membership, the trucking industry as a whole and, especially, the drivers who are out there on the nation’s highways delivering freight every day. We have a lot to be proud of in trucking, and a lot to be thankful for. I hope everyone has a blessed holiday season through Thanksgiving, Christmas and the many other observances through the new year. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I wish you the happiest of holidays, and I look forward to our first visit in the New Year.

HTL Freight strengthens its position with key board additions amidst continued expansion

Dana Guthrie - November 1, 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – HTL Freight is bolstering its executive team with the addition of Scott Riddle and Michael O’Driscoll to its Board of Directors. “We are excited to welcome Scott and Michael, both standout professionals in their respective industries, to our Board of Directors,” said Brian Boland, CFO of HTL Freight. “Their combined expertise and proven leadership will bring invaluable experience as we continue to innovate and grow in the dynamic, competitive freight market.” According to a company press release, both are accomplished executives with extensive experience in driving growth and operational excellence across various industries. These appointments coincide with HTL Freight’s recent fourth major acquisition since 2021, underscoring the company’s strategic growth and commitment to leadership excellence. “Scott Riddle brings over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience in supply chain and vertical industries to HTL Freight,” the company said in the release. “A graduate of Appalachian State University, Scott led freight brokerage and managed transportation provider M33 Integrated Solutions as CEO for 18 years, where he developed industry-leading technology that drove customer distribution efficiency and business profitability. Scott has a proven track record of working with leading logistics industry players, driving business growth through strategic development and effective execution. His collaborative leadership style aligns seamlessly with HTL Freight’s culture of continuous improvement and innovation.” Michael O’Driscoll, MBA, FCA, is the former CFO of the Americas division of CRH plc (NYSE: CRH), a highly acquisitive multinational business and North America’s largest building materials company, the release noted. “With more than four decades of expertise in finance, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic planning, Michael’s leadership will be invaluable in guiding HTL Freight’s financial strategies and expansion efforts,” the release said. “During his tenure at CRH plc, Michael led comprehensive multi-year growth plans, negotiated over 1,000 acquisitions and divestments, and spearheaded successful treasury and risk management initiatives.” The release also noted that, in less than three years, despite widespread industry slowdowns and economic challenges affecting logistics, HTL Freight has seen exceptional growth. “The company has boosted its revenue by over 550%, expanded into new markets such as FTL, LTL, and 4PL, and opened offices in key regions across the Southeast, Midwest and Northeast,” the release said. “Scott and Michael join HTL Freight at a critical moment, where their expertise will help propel continued success and drive the next phase of the company’s expansion.”

Truckloads of Care: Atlas, Paxton, and WERC pack meals for those in need

Dana Guthrie - October 31, 2024

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — Atlas Van Lines, in collaboration with Atlas Interstate Agent Paxton International and Paxton Van Lines, partnered with Move For Hunger and WERC for a meal packing initiative hosted at GWS, the organization’s cornerstone global event in National Harbor, Md. “We are happy to team up with Paxton and Move For Hunger to make an impact on food insecurity in the communities we serve, as well as bring awareness of Move For Hunger’s mission to so many in the relocation industry,” said Ryan McConnell, president and COO of Atlas Van Lines. “We applaud Paxton for the outstanding work they do here in the Washington, D.C., area and we’re proud to play a part at WERC’s signature event.” According to a media release, each meal kit was prepared to feed a family of four, equating to 3,200 total meals, and is packed in a reusable bag. The event aimed to raise awareness and provide tangible support to the growing number of families facing food insecurity in the greater Washington, D.C., and Southern Maryland areas. After a decade-long decline, hunger has been rising in the United States since 2021. In the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, 37% of residents, accounting for nearly 1.5 million people, don’t always know where their next meal will come from. “Hunger is a year-round issue, not just a concern during the holidays,” said Adam Lowy, executive director of Move For Hunger. “By turning this event into an opportunity to give back, we aim to highlight the ongoing need for support and inspire attendees to leave the community better than when they arrived.” Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that mobilizes transportation networks to deliver surplus food to communities in need, organized the meal-packing initiative. For the past decade, WERC has been a dedicated supporter and partner of Move For Hunger, leveraging the transportation industry’s resources to combat hunger. According to the release, Paxton Van Lines is one of Move For Hunger’s longest-standing partners. Together, the companies enable conscious and consistent community engagement through event sponsorships and weekly food bank deliveries from local farmers’ markets. Last year alone, Paxton Van Lines donated over 11,000 pounds of produce to local food banks. “We love making a tangible difference with Move For Hunger right here in the DMV,” said William Paxton, COO at Paxton Van Lines. “Move For Hunger’s passionate team is dedicated to ensuring surplus food from local moves reaches those in need, strengthening our community one move at a time. We’re proud to be a part of their work.” Paxton is a greater Washington, D.C., area-based Agent of Atlas Van Lines, the largest subsidiary of Atlas World Group, employing nearly 700 people throughout North America. “WERC is all about supporting individuals and families through the challenges of mobility, and this meal-packing initiative allows us to extend that support to those facing food insecurity,” said Anupam Singhal WERC CEO. “We’re honored to partner with Atlas, Paxton Van Line, and Move For Hunger in making a real, meaningful difference right here in the community where our event is held.” Attendees travel from around the world to attend WERC’s GWS event, the largest of its kind for talent mobility professionals seeking connections and expert knowledge focused on domestic and international relocation, immigration policies, tax issues, cutting-edge technology trends, and more.

Watching for Zs on the road: Netradyne raises bar for drowsy driving detection with third-gen DMS sensor

Dana Guthrie - October 31, 2024

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Netradyne has unveiled its third-generation Driver Drowsiness with Driver Monitoring System (DMS) Sensor built on years of sleep research and a vast dataset. “Despite 95% of Americans recognizing the danger of drowsy driving, a majority still engage in this risky behavior, according to National Sleep Foundation (NSF) data,” said Adam Kahn, president at Netradyne. “The risk is compounded for those whose livelihoods depend on driving. We put drivers first, so we had to get this right by developing a precise sensor to avoid false alerts without compromising drivers’ road safety. Unlike other offerings on the market that come with subjectivity, Netradyne’s DMS Sensor is grounded in science that’s objective and measurable. Our comprehensive solution will give drivers and safety managers peace of mind that drowsy driving incidents will be prevented.” According to a media release, Netradyne’s third-generation drowsiness detection technology can now identify early-stage drowsiness. Unlike existing solutions that only detect severe or acute drowsiness, the company’s technology enables proactive intervention, significantly reducing the risk of collisions. The announcement comes just ahead of the national Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, November 3-9. According to the release, Netradyne’s industry-leading accuracy provides drivers with precision alerts in real-time, so they are empowered to prevent collisions. With this solution, fleets can: Save lives Mitigate risk and improve road safety Reduce liability and litigation costs and see an ROI faster A lack of sleep can cause microsleeps, usually lasting four to five seconds. According to the NHTSA, vehicles running 55 miles per hour can travel 100 yards before drivers wake from their microsleep. The impact of this issue is grave, with data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) indicating that 10-20% of severe collisions are due to driver drowsiness. Legacy drowsy detection systems have attempted to address this silent killer with a narrow view of drowsiness and decreased performance when it counts – in low light at night. The release noted that the sensor works to detect both early and late stages of drowsiness as defined in research in academic literature. This provides an early warning to drivers and predict future acute drowsiness. In addition, the sensor is sensitive to work under low light at night and can detect drowsiness even if the driver is wearing sunglasses. “This solution enables timely and precise alerts by accurately detecting subtle micro-behaviors indicative of drowsiness like microsleeps (eye closures), blink measurements, and percentage of eye closure over time (PERCLOS) that can objectively detect the onset of drowsiness,” the release said. “Additionally, its ability to discern varying levels of drowsiness allows for more tailored and urgent responses. Optimized installation placement and seamless integration with the Driver•i system, complete with multi-camera views, contribute to a comprehensive and reliable driver monitoring solution.” In addition to in-cab views, the solutions utilize outward-facing cameras to assess road behaviors like lane departure that may contribute to detecting drowsiness, providing a holistic view and situational context. Using the data gathered, managers can better understand drowsy driving behavior patterns, helping inform and focus coaching sessions and develop adjusted schedules based on data, alleviating the potential for risky situations. Progressive drowsy detection empowers managers to intervene effectively. Advanced drowsy driving detection offers early warnings to drivers, enabling them to take immediate steps to prevent accidents and promote road safety, according to the release. This Driver Drowsiness with DMS Sensor solution is available in the U.S. on a limited basis, as an add-on with Netradyne’s D-450.

Nikola Corp. reports Q3 results with 88 wholesale deliveries of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks

Dana Guthrie - October 31, 2024

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Nikola Corporation via the HYLA brand has reported financial results and business updates for the quarter ended Sep.30 that showed a marked uptick in FCEV fleet adoption. “Year-to-date, we had record sales of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks, a 78% increase in FCEV fleet adoption, and a nearly 350% increase in hydrogen fuel dispensed at our commercial stations,” said Steve Girsky, president and CEO of Nikola. “We also returned 78 BEV “2.0s” back to end fleets and dealers. With every truck delivered and fueled at our HYLA stations, we continue to deliver proof points to the market that zero-emission trucks are driving the future of Class 8 mobility.” In a company press release the biggest notes include: Record 88 wholesale deliveries of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks in Q3, up 22% quarter over quarter. FCEV Fleet adoption up 78% year-to-date, with 16 end fleets deploying Nikola FCEVs, 32 distinct end fleets across both powertrains. Expanded dealer network for the first time since launch of the FCEV. Reiterating our year-end volume guidance of 300-350 FCEVs. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Truck “We delivered record sales of 88 FCEVs to our dealer network, up 22% from last quarter,” the company said in a press release. “On the retail front, we continued to see strong organic growth from existing end fleets. National fleet partners such as Kenan Advantage Group and DHL Supply Chain recently announced deployment of Nikola FCEVs and noted the important role we play in not only helping them meet their sustainability goals, but those of their end customers, which includes Nestlé and Diageo” The company expanded its dealer network for the first time since the launch of our FCEV with the addition of GTS Group, in Southern California. GTS, a successful traditional truck dealership, recently introduced a new division, created for the sales and service of Nikola trucks called “Next Generation Truck” or NGT. This additional dealer brings the number of Nikola sales and service locations up to nineteen across the U.S. “We reiterate FCEV volume guidance of 300-350 trucks by year-end,” the release said. HYLA Energy “We expect to deliver 10 HYLA fueling solutions by year-end,” the company said. “We are focusing our strategy on providing more support at existing stations to better serve our customers as we scale. Operationally, over the lifetime of the entire HYLA network, we have recorded more than 5900 fueling events, dispensing more than 210 metric tons of hydrogen, for an average of 36kg per fill. The year-to-date ramp-up in mobile hydrogen refueling stations has been very strong. Since we began measuring commercial fueling operations in Q1, total hydrogen dispensing has grown nearly 350% year-to-date.” Battery-Electric Truck “We are excited that the BEV “2.0” is back on the road, hauling freight, and validating its use case,” the company said. “Since putting the BEV 2.0 back into service, 19 end fleets have accumulated more than 715K in-service road miles. The BEV 2.0 has been the truck of choice for our end fleets not only for its performance but also to meet the sustainability goals of end fleet partners. Program-to-date, we’ve returned 78 BEVs back to the market to overwhelmingly positive feedback.”

Road to opportunity: Public hearing set for Douglas International Commercial Land Port of Entry Connector road study

Dana Guthrie - October 31, 2024

DOUGLAS, Ariz. — The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is currently seeking public comments on the recommended location for a connector road between the proposed new Commercial Port of Entry in Douglas to State Route 80 to safely accommodate truck traffic. According to a department press release, ADOT has released a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) and Design Concept Report (DCR) identifying the recommended connector road route and will hold an in-person public hearing Nov. 19 to provide an overview of the draft EA and DCR, share ADOT’s preliminary recommendation and receive public comments. Public Hearing Details When: Tuesday, Nov. 19 from 5-7 p.m. Where: Douglas Visitor Center, 345 16th St., Douglas, Arizona Agenda: 5-5:30 p.m.: open house 5:30-6 p.m.: presentation 6-7 p.m.: public comment to hearing panel/open house The hearing will include a formal presentation on the study, followed by an opportunity for formal public comment, as well as an open house period for the public to review materials and speak with the study team. The draft EA and DCR will be available for public review and comment through Dec. 9. The draft EA and DCR documents and public hearing materials can be viewed on the study website at azdot.gov/DouglasIPOERoadStudy. Printed copies of the EA can also be reviewed at the following repository locations: Douglas City Manager’s Office: 425 E. Tenth St., Douglas, AZ 85607 Douglas Public Library: 560 E. Tenth St., Douglas, AZ 85607 Cochise County Development Services Building and Public Library, 1415 W. Melody Ln., Bisbee, AZ 85603 Public comments will be accepted throughDec. 9, 2024 in the following ways: At the public hearing Online comment form: https://tinyurl.com/DouglasLPOERoadStudy By email: [email protected] By phone: 1-888-581-3135 By mail: Gordley Group, Attn. Douglas Land Port of Entry Connector Road Study, 2540 N. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85716

A showcase of brilliance: 2024 IFDA National Championship winners announced

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

McLEAN, Va. – The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) held its annual skills and safety competition for truck drivers and warehouse associates on Oct. 25 to celebrate the very best industrial athletes in various truck driving and warehouse challenges to determine the nation’s best. “This year, 190 professional truck drivers and 79 warehouse associates showcased their skills, with 71% making their competition debut,” said Mark S. Allen, president and CEO of IFDA. “Their precision, knowledge, and expertise in navigating the challenges were truly impressive. It’s a privilege to honor the top talent in the foodservice distribution industry for their excellence and dedication to safety. Congratulations to all!” According to a media release, the IFDA National Championship were held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla. where competitors participated in one of five categories and are awarded first through third place. In warehouse, there are two categories: double-pallet jack and reach truck, and in trucking, there are three categories: straight truck, 3-axle, and 5-axle. Collectively, the 190 truck drivers represent 2,346 accident-free years, have 2,257 years with their current employer and 3,390 total years in the trucking industry. In addition to bragging rights, the winners receive a medal and a cash prize. First-place competitors also receive a championship jacket. The awards were handed out at a banquet Oct. 26. The 2024 results are as follows: Double Pallet Jack First Place – Jon Moore, Dot Foods, Inc. Second Place – Lafayette Maxie, McLane Company Third Place – Andrew Newby, US Foods Reach Truck First Place – Dylon Maes, Shamrock Foods Second Place – Cameron King, Shamrock Foods Third Place – Eron De La Cueva, Performance Food Group 2-Axle First Place – James Falconburg, Nicholas & Company, Inc. Second Place – Steve Ross, Performance Food Group Third Place – Daniel Trevino, McLane Company 3-Axle First Place – Jason Swordling, Ben E. Keith Co. Second Place – Lino Garcia, Performance Food Group Third Place – Michael Fergison, Cheney Brothers 5-Axle First Place – Michael Sinclair, Performance Food Group Second Place – Charles Spence, McLane Company Third Place – Sam Duron, McLane Company A “Rookie of the Year” award was also given to the top-scoring first-time competitors in the driving and warehouse categories. The 2024 Warehouse Rookie of the Year was Dylon Maes, a Reach Truck driver with Shamrock Foods, and the 2024 Driving Rookie of the Year was Michael Sinclair, a 5-axle driver from Performance Food Group. Individual awards were given to those who scored perfect on the “pre-trip” portion of the competition. The pre-trip exam involves competitors conducting a safety inspection of their equipment prior to its use. The perfect pre-trip exams include: Luis Barker with Shamrock Foods; perfect on the 3-Axle Truck. Pablo Escobar with Ben E. Keith Company; perfect on the Double Pallet Jack. Jay-R Garcia with Sysco; perfect on the Double Pallet Jack. Steven Rouse with Performance Food Group; perfect on the 5-Axle Truck. Jeremy Smith with Shamrock Foods; perfect on the Double Pallet Jack. Team awards were also handed out to the top-performing teams in each category. Shamrock Foods received the 2024 Warehouse Team Award, and McLane Company received the 2024 Driving Team Award. The 2025 IFDA National Championship will be held in Orlando, Florida, from October 23 – 25 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Trucking icon turns 40: Advantage Truck Group marks milestone

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

SHREWSBURY, Mass. — Forty years ago, Kevin Holmes invested his life savings of $12,000 to open a Getty gas station in Ashland, Mass., never imagining two years later it would launch the Tri State Truck Repair business that would become Advantage Truck Group (ATG). “When I think about the past 40 years and the journey to get here, it’s the people who made the difference and helped build our success,” said Kevin Holmes, president and CEO. “It’s our business partners who believed in us and each customer who trusted us with their business. Yet no one is more important than every person at ATG, and I am proud to share this milestone with them,” said Holmes. According to a company press release, ATG is New England’s largest Daimler Trucks North America dealer and includes 400 employees across eight locations. As ATG marks 40 years, it celebrates its commitment to its employees, customers and the communities it serves. While a lot has changed over the past 40 years, ATG’s commitment to its employees and customers has not. The first technician Holmes hired 40 years ago and many of its earliest customers are still with the company today. ATG continues to support the next generation and foster their success, making investments in training and providing opportunities for growth within its dealer network. “Our customers deliver the products and services our families, businesses and communities rely on every day, and no detail is too small when it comes to the service and support they need,” Holmes said. We are an extension of their business, and it takes a remarkable team and the dedication and efforts of every member to make that happen. ATG is committed to delivering an exceptional experience by focusing on continuous improvement for its employees, customers and the communities it serves, and its Haulin’ 4 Hunger charitable initiative is a testament to this mission. From what started over a decade ago with a small donation of turkeys during the holidays has today provided over 80,000 meals and counting and become a year-round effort to fight food insecurity near every ATG location. On October 29, ATG hosted celebration events for team members across its dealer network and offering giveaways to customers who visit any of its eight locations — Raynham, Shrewsbury and Westfield, Mass.; Lancaster, Lebanon, Manchester and Seabrook, NH; and Westminster, VT. “As we plan for the next 40 years, a commitment to our employees, customers and communities will remain at the heart of everything we do,” said Holmes.

Breaking down barriers: WIT reveals 2024 top companies for women to work in transportation

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. — Redefining the Road magazine, the official magazine of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), is celebrating the recipients of the 2024 “Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation.” “Companies named to this prestigious list must demonstrate corporate attributes that are essential to any successful enterprise committed to gender diversity as part of their corporate strategy,” said Brian Everett, publisher of Redefining the Road. “Qualifying companies to this list involves a two-step process. First, nominations by companies are carefully reviewed to ensure they meet a minimum threshold of qualifications. Then the final ballot of companies is voted on by individuals in the industry. This is the seventh year of this prestigious recognition program, and it garnered a record number of more than 31,000 votes to identify and validate the final companies named to the list.” According to a press release, the magazine created the award in 2018 to support an element of WIT’s mission: to promote the accomplishments of companies that are focused on the employment of women in the trucking industry, according to Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of WIT. There are a number of characteristics that distinguish the companies recognized on this list, according to Everett. “These characteristics include corporate cultures that foster gender diversity; competitive compensation and benefits; flexible hours and work requirements; professional development opportunities; and career advancement opportunities,” Everett said. “Qualified companies also must meet minimum requirements of what they report through the WIT Index, the industry barometer that benchmarks and measures the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation. The list is comprised of a diverse range of company types in the trucking marketplace, including motor carriers, third-party logistics companies, and original equipment manufacturers. The companies will be recognized at the upcoming WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo Nov. 10-13 in Dallas, Texas. International Motors, formerly Navistar, is the sponsor of this year’s program. Companies generating the largest number of votes are named to the “Elite 30” of the 2024 Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation. They are Air Products, ArcBest, Averitt, Cummins Inc., Daimler Truck North America, Epes Transport System, Estes Express Lines, FedEx, Great Dane, International Motors, J.B. Hunt Transport, Kenan Advantage Group, Landstar System, Old Dominion Freight Line, Penske Transportation Solutions, Peterbilt Motors Co., Premier Truck Group, Quality Carriers, Roehl Transport, RXO, Ryder System, Schneider, Sysco, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, TravelCenters of America, UPS, Volvo Group North America, Walmart, WM, and XPO. Companies named to the overall 2024 Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation list are 4Refuel, ADM Trucking, Aim Transportation Solutions, American Expediting Logistics, America’s Service Line, Ancora Training, Arrive Logistics, Arrow Truck Sales, Aurora Parts, Bay & Bay Transportation, Bennett Family of Companies, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Boyle Transportation, Brenny Transportation, Bridgestone Americas, Cargomatic, Carter Express, Centerline Drivers, Certified Express, CJ Logistics America, Clean Harbors, ContainerPort Group, Conversion Interactive Agency, Covenant Logistics Group, CrossCountry Freight Solutions, Crowley, Day & Ross, Dot Transportation, Dupré Logistics, Dynacraft (a PACCAR Company), Echo Global Logistics, Excargo Services, FStaff, Garner Trucking, Giltner Logistics, GLT Logistics, Great West Casualty Company, Halvor Lines, Highway Transport Logistics, Interstate Billing Service, ISAAC Instruments, J.J. Keller & Associates, JoyRide Logistics, JX Truck Center, Kenworth Truck Co., Koch Companies, Leonard’s Express, LGT Transport, Marathon Petroleum Co., May Trucking Co., McLeod Software, Michelin North America, MOTOR Information Systems, Musket Transport, National Carriers, National Shunt Service, New West Truck Centres, NFI Industries, OOIDA, Orica – USA, PACCAR Inc., PACCAR Leasing Co., PACCAR Parts, Palmer Trucks, Pennsy Supply, PepsiCo Foods North America, Polaris Transportation Group, Purolator, RE Garrison Trucking, Red Classic, Reliance Partners, Rihm Family Companies, Saia LTL Freight, Savage, Southeastern Freight Lines, Southwest International Trucks, Standard Logistics, Stericycle, Suburban Propane, Sun State International, Sunset Transportation, SWTO, TA Dedicated, The Erb Group, The Evans Network of Companies, The Pete Store, Thomas E. Keller Trucking, Total Transportation of MS, TRAC Intermodal, TRAFFIX, Trimac, Tri-National, Trinity Logistics, Triumph Financial, Truckstop, Tucker Freight Lines, Tyler Technologies, U.S. Xpress, Uber Freight, USAL, Venture Logistics, Werner Enterprises, Wilson Logistics, and Zonar Systems.

Carriers must protect themselves against ever-increasing jury awards

Cliff Abbott - October 30, 2024

The trucking industry was shocked recently when a jury awarded nearly a half-billion dollars to the plaintiffs in a case involving a 2019 crash. Two people died when their Volkswagen crashed into the rear of a 2004 Wabash dry van trailer. The ruling cited the rear impact guard as defective — despite the fact that it met all legal safety requirements at the time the equipment was manufactured. In addition to $12 million in compensatory damages, the jury awarded $450 million in punitive damages. Stunningly, what most would deem as crucial evidence — that the driver’s blood alcohol content was over the legal limit and that neither the driver nor the passenger of the Volkswagen were wearing seat belts — was withheld from the jury. The plaintiffs’ attorneys were allowed to withhold this information because the suit was not against the motor carrier and truck driver; it was a product liability case against Wabash. The company and driver were not a part of the litigation at all. Rising insurance costs Earlier this year, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released an update to its “Analysis of the Operational Costs of Trucking,” which noted a 12.5% increase in trucking insurance premiums in 2023. Some reasons cited for the increases were rising equipment costs, litigation and inflation. According to the report, some carriers reported further premium increases during the first quarter of 2024. Protecting the company from both nuclear verdicts and rising insurance premiums is an issue for every carrier. “It is clear that excessive jury verdicts have been permanently stamped on the litigation landscape,” said Jay Starrett, head of accident litigation for Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary, P.C. “Not only are excessive verdicts occurring routinely, but the number of jurisdictions reporting excessive verdicts continues to grow.” Starrett spoke of judicial “hellholes” — jurisdictions where plaintiff’s attorneys are more likely to find sympathetic judges and juries. “Unfortunately, reports of verdicts in the tens of millions of dollars are now routine, even in jurisdiction formerly considered conservative,” he said. “While the transportation defense bar is constantly developing new trial methods to counter excess verdicts, the reality is that we are fighting an uphill battle.” Lewie Pugh, executive vice-president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, says he’s noticed a troubling pattern in litigation against motor carriers and equipment manufacturers. “They’ll try to prove a pattern of unsafeness whether it’s factual or not. We need tort reform,” Pugh said. “People need to be made whole (after an accident) but some of these awards go far beyond.” Fighting for tort reform The most obvious — as well as possibly the most difficult — solution is to limit the amount of compensation that can be awarded to plaintiffs, as well as to reduce the number of lawsuits filed. “The most effective way to combat excessive verdicts — perhaps the only way — is through tort reform,” Starrett said. Getting tort reform passed has turned out to be a large problem, however. “Since every state establishes its own tort laws, tort reform must be accomplished on a state-by-state basis,” Starrett explained. “In today’s political climate, obtaining relief at the legislative level requires significant resources.” The trucking industry ends up picking up the tab for most tort reform efforts … but carriers end up paying for both sides of the argument. “The irony is not lost that the plaintiffs’ bar’s funding opposing tort reform is being paid for by transportation companies through multi-million dollar contingent fees they pocket from excessive verdicts,” Starrett said. Just days after the Wabash verdict, an Alabama jury issued a $160 million award against Daimler Truck North America. The driver of a Western Star truck, manufactured by the company, was rendered a quadriplegic after a rollover crash. Nearly half of the award — $75 million — was punitive. The jury heard that Daimler had offered a different seat as an option in Freightliner and Western Star trucks which may have prevented the catastrophic injury to the driver. Since the company knew the seat was available but did not make it standard equipment, the jury ruled them responsible for the driver’s injuries. “I’m blown away by some of the arguments that were not allowed in the Wabash case, from what I read,” explained Gary Johnson, head of safety and compliance strategy at Motive. “I mean, there are huge aspects that weren’t even allowed into the evidence.” With the exception of small victories in a few states, real tort reform isn’t on the horizon. Carrier must be able to demonstrate their safety values beyond collision statistics. Bring technology into the battle Johnson is a firm believer in the use of driver technology to protect against unreasonable jury awards. For example, he says, dash cameras featuring artificial intelligence (AI) are a technology that works to record what actually happened during a crash event. “In court, it’s pretty hard to argue when you have evidence right there,” he said. Unfortunately, many fleets are not utilizing the available tech. A 2023 “State of Safety” report published by Motive surveyed 1,100 trucking and logistics companies and found that 40% of respondents said their fleets were underinvested in driver safety technology. At the very least, integrating dash camera video recorders into a fleet can help in litigation. In addition, driver-facing cameras can help refute claims that a driver was distracted or fatigued at the time of an incident. In addition, many camera systems can be set to alert the driver when certain potentially unsafe behaviors are recorded, helping reinforce safe driving behavior. Evidence that training has occurred, or hasn’t been needed, can be presented to strengthen a court case. Pugh believes it’s a good idea for drivers to protect themselves using various means of documentation. “To protect yourself, it’s a good thing,” he said. “Document, document, document everything.” The argument used against Daimler — that a safer product was available but not used — can be used for any safety system. Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation are available, as are in-cab video systems. Carriers that decide not to use these safety features could possibly be judged as liable for any accidents or injuries they could have prevented. Costs passed along to consumers The cost of excessive financial awards in litigation is costly not only to the parties involved, but also to the general public. “The industry is being devastated by nuclear verdicts, and society as a whole ultimately absorbs these verdicts through higher prices on goods,” Starrett said. Real jobs are being lost and insurance rates are skyrocketing, if a carrier can even find an insurer,” he continued. In addition, Johnson notes, exorbitant judgements against transportation companies are driving the size of the average award upward. “FMCSA says the average the average cost of a general fatality is $1.7 million, but when you add the commercial motor vehicle equation into that, it’s $3.6 million,” Johnson explained. “It tells you right there that the industry is a target. Now you throw in these nuclear verdicts, and that’s just going to increase that average award.”

DAT weekly trend; Spot load posts decline in week 43, remain ahead of 2023

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

“There were 1.94 million loads available on the DAT One network last week, down 10% compared to the previous week but 19% higher compared to Week 43 in 2023, according to a DAT one press release. “There were 335,458 available trucks, a 1.5% decline week over week.” Promising trends in van freight “Excluding the pandemic-affected 2021 and 2022, van load posts for Week 43 were 27% higher than in previous years, said Dean Croke, DAT industry analyst. “Van capacity was flat compared to the previous week, pushing the dry van load-to-truck ratio lower. That’s still strong compared to other years: only 2021 had a higher Week 43 when the van ratio was 5.25.” Linehaul van rate was unmoved According to Croke, at $1.65 a mile, the national average linehaul van rate was virtually unchanged for the fourth straight week. This is 3 cents lower than the three-month trailing average but 11 cents higher than the same time last year. Reefer load posts cooled “National reefer load postings dropped by 15% last week after a surge the previous week,” Croke said. “This decrease was partly due to an 8% drop in USDA produce volumes in California compared to the previous week. However, reefer load posts on DAT One were 6% higher than last year.” Flatbed rates continued to dip. Croke added that the national average linehaul flatbed rate fell a penny to $1.97 a mile, 2 cents lower than the three-month trailing average. With load volume up 7% week over week and 3% month over month, weaker prices signal ample capacity in the market. Dry Vans ▼ Van loads: 912,255, down 9% week over week ▼ Van equipment: 221,998, down 1.5% — Linehaul rate: $1.65 net fuel, unchanged ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 4.1, down from 4.4 Reefers ▼ Reefer loads: 381,447, down 15% week over week ▼ Reefer equipment: 69,033, down 0.5% ▼ Linehaul rate: $1.98 net fuel, down 1 cent ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 5.5, down from 6.5 Flatbeds ▼ Flatbed loads: 649,631, down 8% week over week ▼ Flatbed equipment: 44,427, down 3% ▼ Linehaul rate: $1.97 net fuel, down 2 cents ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 14.6, down from 15.4 It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas “Situated within a one-day drive of major U.S. markets, including New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. and Allentown, Pa., is a vital distribution hub for e-commerce freight,” Croke said. “Outbound van truckload volumes are about 25% higher than last year, leading to a 12% increase in spot rates last week. Notably, the average rate from Allentown to Charlotte, N.C.—a high-volume van lane—was the highest in 12 months at $1.77 per mile. DAT iQ RateView forecasts the rate to peak at around $2 a mile during the Christmas season—35 cents higher than last year.”

Nationwide moving company scam exposed: Florida man to forfeit property

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

OHIO — The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio has entered into a settlement agreement with Andrey Shuklin for a Final Order of Forfeiture related to a nationwide moving company scam. “The investigation revealed that from April 2013 until July 2018, Shuklin, along with other members of the enterprise, controlled several moving companies which defrauded, extorted, and stole customers’ household goods,” the court said in the release. “After loading customers’ goods onto a moving truck, the moving enterprise would increase the price of the move and hold the goods hostage until customers paid the inflated prices. Some customer loads were not delivered at all. The enterprise also charged customers for moving more cubic footage of household goods than they actually used.” Shuklin was one of 12 defendants indicted in July 2018. According to court documents, the defendants operated and worked through several affiliated moving companies to enrich themselves by stealing from customers who hired them to move their household goods. The enterprise executed their scheme through various moving companies in Florida, Ohio, Maryland, North Carolina, Illinois, Texas, California, Connecticut, Colorado and Missouri. More than 1,000 customers have been identified as victims. Shuklin admitted to participating in the scheme from April 2013 through July 2018. The defendant was the owner of affiliated moving companies and worked out of the enterprise’s main business offices in Florida. As part of the conspiracy, the defendants would provide customers with low binding estimates to do their move, promising to beat their competitor’s prices. After the customers agreed to hire the moving companies, employees of the moving companies would load the customers’ goods onto the truck and then the price of the move would be bumped. Co-conspirators would use an inflated cubic footage for the price of moving the customers’ goods. The order requires Shuklin to pay $36,481.58, which will be substituted for real property. The companies were not named in court documents. DOT-OIG is conducting this investigation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

EZ LYNK ELD users get the edge with Drivewyze weigh station bypass technology

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

PLANO, Texas — Drivewyze, by Fleetworthy, has partnered with EZ LYNK to provide EZ LYNK ELD mobile app customers with integrated access to Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass. “Working with Drivewyze allows us to offer even more value to our customers,” said Brad Gintz, co-founder and CEO of EZ LYNK. “Together, we’re delivering solutions that help fleet operators save time, reduce costs, and streamline their operations.” According to a media release, EZ LYNK will also offer Drivewyze Free, which provides essential driver safety notifications. Frances Kilgour, vice president of Business Development and Channel Management for Drivewyze, noted that EZ LYNK is an innovative company in the technology space and it continues to grow and expand its suite of fleet management products for its customers. “The addition of Drivewyze PreClear and Drivewyze Free reflects the company’s commitment in improving their customers’ productivity,” Kilgour said. The release noted that Drivewyze seamlessly integrates into the EZ LYNK ELD app — no transponders are required. When activated, Drivewyze transmits safety scores, registration, and tax compliance information to weigh stations, which then calculates the information against the bypass criteria established by its state or province. If the carrier and vehicle pass the criteria, at one mile out, the driver receives permission to bypass the site. The better the fleet’s safety score, the more bypasses typically granted. Through Drivewyze PreClear, EZ LYNK customers can receive bypass opportunities at close to 900 locations in 48 states and provinces.” “We understand that in the logistics and transportation industry, time is money,” Gintz said. “By allowing drivers to bypass weigh stations, Drivewyze PreClear reduces delays, enabling drivers to cover more miles, complete more deliveries, and maximize their productivity. This translates directly to improved operational efficiency and financial benefits for fleet operators. Additionally, Drivewyze’s safety alerts, through Drivewyze Free, provides real-time alerts and perfectly align with our mission to not only improve efficiency but also enhance the safety and compliance of our customers on the road.” “Drivewyze Free provides essential messaging, including heads-up warnings for High-Rollover risk areas, Low Bridges, Mountain alerts (steep grade ahead; chain-up/brake check stations; and runaway ramps), and Rest Area information (truck parking availability),” the release said. “In addition, it provides real-time traffic slowdowns and other safety alerts generated in partnership with select state transportation and enforcement agencies through the Drivewyze Smart Roadways highway safety program for connected trucks.”

AI breakthrough reduces safety event review by 70%, according to Rand McNally

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

BOISE, Idaho – Rand McNally has rolled out its Practical AI framework within its SafetyDirect solution that uses machine learning to analyze vast amounts of driver and vehicle performance data. “Data is only as valuable as it is actionable,” said Andre Tokman, global head of data science for Rand McNally. “The idea is to take big data and make it feel smaller and more useful—not just overwhelm our customers with more of it.” According to a company press release, This new approach surfaces the most important insights for fleet managers and safety directors, helping them focus on what truly matters. The first new feature enabled by Practical AI is Automated Event Ranking (AER) that automatically classifies and prioritizes safety events. AER allows fleet managers to concentrate on critical incidents while reducing the time spent reviewing non-essential data. In testing, Rand McNally demonstrated a 70-percent reduction in the number of safety events requiring manual review, which enables managers to focus on high-priority incidents and make faster decisions that improve fleet safety and operational efficiency. According to the release, AER leverages data collected from proprietary onboard ADAS systems, ranking safety events—such as sudden braking, lane departures, and other driving behaviors—based on their severity. By minimizing false positives and delivering actionable insights, AER empowers fleet managers to make quicker, more informed decisions that lead to safer driving outcomes. Bill Woolsey, Safety Director at Freymiller, highlighted the real-world impact of Practical AI. “We coach our drivers directly from the SafetyDirect data, which enables us to quickly and easily separate key signals from ‘noise’ in the data,” Woolsey said. “That saves us time and makes our coaching more precise and effective.” AER is the first of many ways Rand McNally is enhancing fleet technology with practical, real-world applications of AI, according to the release. Rand McNally plans to expand its use beyond safety management. “Leveraging its access to proprietary data from onboard sensors and telematics systems, Rand McNally will apply AI-powered insights to areas such as predictive maintenance and vehicle health monitoring,” the company said in the release. “This will allow fleet managers to not only improve driver performance but also enhance overall fleet efficiency by anticipating and addressing maintenance issues before they become critical.”

Freight demand grows, but for-hire demands remain choppy

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ind. – The latest release of ACT’s For-Hire Trucking Index suggests growth is making its way into the for-hire market. The Volume Index decreased 5.0 points in September to 49.5, seasonally adjusted (SA), from 54.5 in August. “Overall, freight demand is growing, but private fleet growth is still resulting in choppy for-hire demand conditions,” said Carter Vieth, research associate at ACT Research. “Durable goods consumption rose 4.2% q/q SAAR in Q2, imports and inventories are growing, and cross-border shipments are increasing. But inconsistency may persist in the near term following two large hurricanes, a port strike, and likely another one in January. With private fleet costs well above for-hire carriers, we expect shippers to eventually shift freight back to the for-hire market, as low orders suggest is starting to take shape.” The Capacity Index increased by 3.2 points m/m to 50.8 in September, from 47.6 in August. “This month’s reading marks the first time in fourteen months that capacity has expanded, albeit just slightly,” Vieth said. “This month’s uptick likely reflects the more stable demand and rate environment, which no longer necessarily signal further retrenchment.” The Supply-Demand Balance decreased in September to 48.8, from 56.9 in August, as freight volumes decreased and fleet capacity increased. “Private fleet expansion, which is not captured in this indicator, is resulting in a longer period with the market close to balance than in past cycles,” Vieth said. “Despite the past few months of elevated tractor sales due to mirror supply chain issues in April, slowing US Class 8 tractor sales from here will help to further rebalance and move the cycle forward, albeit slowly. Continued strong US economic growth is leading to improved goods demand and will make its way to the for-hire market as private fleet growth slows.”

Load One takes a leap forward with Tri-State acquisition

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

DETROIT, Mich. — Load One has acquired Ohio-based Tri-State Expedited Service Inc. which provides expedited ground transportation and logistics services across the 48 contiguous United States, Mexico and Canada.“ “We are excited to welcome Tri-State into the Load One family,” said Jack Donnell, CEO of Load One. “Tri-State shares our unwavering commitment to high-quality expedited transportation services. This acquisition greatly enhances our capacity and positions Load One to better serve our customers, owner-operators, carrier partners, and company drivers nationwide. Tri-State’s exceptional brand and long-standing history will further reinforce our position as a North American leader in ground expedite transportation and logistics.” According to a press release, the strategic combination with Load One significantly expands the joint North American network of owner-operators, carrier partners, and company drivers, reinforcing Load One’s commitment to delivering exceptional service for time-critical, time-sensitive, and high-value freight needs. “We are thrilled to join the Load One platform. Load One represents an ideal fit for Tri-State,” Korey Walper, CEO of Tri-State. “Having known and respected the Load One team for many years, we recognize their dedication to fulfilling critical shipping needs through top-tier service. I have full confidence that Load One will be an outstanding steward of the reputation Tri-State has built over 40+ years, and I know our customers, employees, and drivers are in great hands.”

Used Class 8 truck retail sale price dropped in September

Bruce Guthrie - October 29, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ind. – According to the latest State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks by ACT Research, September activity erased August’s strength in the average retail sale price for Class 8 trucks, which dropped 5.2% month-to month. “On a year-to-year basis, prices were 14% lower. Prices are expected to remain stable at or around this lower level through 2024, transitioning to y/y growth in early 2025,” said Steve Tam, Vice President at ACT Research. “Same dealer Class 8 retail truck sales floated lower in September, perpetuating a familiar pattern of slowing. The 2.3% decrease was nearly identical to the 2.7% seasonal slowing indicated by history. September is typically the third-best sales month of the year, running six percent above average. The wholesale segment also saw volumes decrease compared to August, down 10%. As is usually the case in the third month of the quarter, auction volumes improved, up 34% m/m. Combining the three channels, total market same dealer sales volume rose 12% m/m in September,” Tam explained. ACT’s Used Classes 3-8 report provides data on the average selling price, miles, and age based on a sample of industry data. In addition, the report provides the average selling price for top-selling Class 8 models for each of the major truck OEMs – Freightliner (Daimler); Kenworth and Peterbilt (Paccar); International (Navistar); and Volvo and Mack (Volvo). This report is utilized by those throughout the industry, including commercial vehicle dealers, to gain a better understanding of the used truck market, especially as it relates to changes in near-term performance.

Diesel prices rise slightly after one-week reprieve

Bruce Guthrie - October 29, 2024

It was nice while it lasted. After falling last week, average diesel prices ticked up this week. The national average rose exactly two cents from $3.553 to $3.573. The Midwest and Lower Atlantic were the two larger culprits of the average price increase. The Midwest Region rose from $3.543 to $3.569 while the Lower Atlantic’s price climbed from $3.489 to $3.516. It was the Gulf Coast price that was the largest increase rising $3.199 to 3.230 The Rocky Mountain region rose as well from $3.636 to $3.655. New England fell just a bit, also, from $3.760 to $3.753 while the West Coast and California also dropped slightly from $$4.210 to $4.206 and $4.698 to $4.682 respectfully.

Are you ready for changes to FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse?

Brad Klepper - October 28, 2024

Let’s get this out of the way up front: I am a staunch advocate for road safety. I believe that no policy or regulation aimed at protecting drivers should be exempt from scrutiny or debate. An unexamined rule isn’t worth enforcing. When you combine that with my commitment to transparency and public accountability, it’s clear why I’m a vocal proponent of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. It’s a critical tool for enhancing road safety and maintaining the integrity of our transportation system. This system is not without its critics. Some argue that the Clearinghouse could unfairly penalize drivers for past mistakes or lead to privacy concerns. Moreover, while it provides a path to rehabilitation, the barriers to re-enter and the difficulty involved in finding a company willing to take the risk of rehiring a driver with that documented history causes many drivers to leave the industry. This exacerbates the driver shortage. But let’s be real: The primary goal here is safety. We’re talking about preventing potentially catastrophic accidents caused by impaired driving. The benefits of such a system outweigh the drawbacks. With all that said, I’d like to provide a bit of a crash course on the FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse and what new changes will take effect on Nov. 18, 2024. The First Clearinghouse Rule: Establishing the Database The first Clearinghouse rule, which came into effect in January 2020, laid the groundwork for the entire system. This rule mandated the creation of the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, a centralized database designed to track drug and alcohol violations among commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. Before this rule, there was no single source of information for employers, state agencies or law enforcement to verify a driver’s compliance with drug and alcohol regulations. This lack of centralized data made it easier for drivers with violations to move between employers undetected, potentially endangering everyone on the road. Here’s how the first rule changed the game: Real-Time Data Access: Employers must check the Clearinghouse database before hiring a new driver and annually for current drivers. This ensures that any past violations are flagged and addressed. Mandatory Reporting: Employers, medical review officers, substance abuse professionals and other relevant parties are required to report drug and alcohol violations to the Clearinghouse. This includes positive test results, test refusals, and actual knowledge of violations. Return-to-Duty Process: Drivers with violations must complete a return-to-duty process and follow-up testing plan before they can resume safety-sensitive functions. This is tracked within the Clearinghouse, ensuring no driver skips steps in their rehabilitation. The first rule essentially built the infrastructure for a safer, more transparent commercial driving industry. It closed significant gaps in the system, ensuring that all stakeholders have the information they need to make informed decisions about driver safety and compliance. The Second Clearinghouse Rule: Expanding Scope and Enhancing Safety The second Clearinghouse rule, proposed in 2021, is set to take effect Nov. 18, 2024. While the first rule focused on establishing the database and mandatory reporting, the second rule seeks to broaden who has access to this critical information and under what circumstances. Here’s what the second rule introduces: State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) Access: Under this rule, SDLAs are required to query the Clearinghouse before issuing, renewing, upgrading or transferring a CDL. This ensures that no driver with outstanding drug or alcohol violations can obtain or renew their CDL without first resolving those issues. Annual Queries for SDLAs: In addition to pre-issuance checks, SDLAs must perform annual queries on all CDL holders licensed in their state. This regular check helps maintain ongoing compliance and catches any new violations promptly. Enhanced Employer Notifications: Employers can now receive real-time electronic notifications when there is an update to a driver’s Clearinghouse record. This immediate feedback loop allows for faster action and response to any new violations. The second rule is about fortifying the safety net established by the first rule. By expanding access to the Clearinghouse and ensuring continuous monitoring, the FMCSA is making sure that drivers with unresolved violations do not slip through the cracks at any point in their careers. So, what does this mean for employers? The second rule mostly adds standards for the states but leaves the legislation and processes they enact to meet these standards up to them. Ideally, this means rather than adding work for employers it will save them time. Employers should see from running the Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) whether a driver has a downgraded license due to a “prohibited” Clearinghouse status — and thus cannot be employed. Since this rule has been in the works for three years, let’s cross our fingers that the states are already prepared to implement this change However, given how long it’s taken some jurisdictions to implement Real ID, let’s not count on immediate time savings immediately come November.