Business Archives

After three straight weeks of increases, the number of loads posted on DAT One fell 11%

Dana Guthrie - October 16, 2024

BEAVERTON, Ore. — The impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton has been largely regional, except for industries like automotive production with nationwide supply chains rooted in the Southeast, according to DAT. Southeast freight markets are recovering. “Following a surge in pre-hurricane freight positioning in the Southeast, van load-post volumes fell 14% nationally, erasing the prior week’s gains,” said Dean Croke, DAT industry analyst. “On the top reefer lane between Atlanta and Lakeland, Florida, where Hurricane Milton hit, load-post volumes decreased by 34% week over week, leading to a 22-cent-per-mile drop in the average spot reefer rate. Volumes between Lakeland and Atlanta also dropped by 33% week over week while capacity on the lane tightened, causing linehaul rates to increase by 5 cents to an average of $1.19 per mile. According to DAT, after three straight weeks of increases, the number of loads posted on DAT One fell 11% to 1.82 million week over week. That’s still 10% higher year over year. At 332,598, the number of trucks on the network was virtually unchanged compared to the previous week. Dry Vans ▼ Van loads: 829,234, down 14% week over week ▼ Van equipment: 219,586, down 0.3% ▼ Linehaul rate: $1.64 net fuel, down 1 cent ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 3.8, down from 4.4 Reefers ▼ Reefer loads: 358,771, down 13.5% week over week ▼ Reefer equipment: 66,178, down 2.3% ▼ Linehaul rate: $1.96 net fuel, down 1 cent ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 5.4, down from 6.1 Flatbeds ▼ Flatbed loads: 634,090, down 4.5% week over week ▲ Flatbed equipment: 46,834, up 7.5% — Linehaul rate: $2.00 net fuel, unchanged ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 13.5, down from 15.2 Note: Linehaul rates exclude an amount equal to a national average fuel surcharge.

Mile marker of success: TAEC President’s Leadership Award goes to devoted trucking leader

Dana Guthrie - October 16, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – For his tireless dedication on behalf of the trucking industry the American Trucking Associations has honored Greg Fulton, president of the Colorado Motor Carriers Association, with the ATA Trucking Association Executives Council President’s Leadership Award. “In his nearly three decades leading Colorado’s state trucking association, Greg has significantly grown the organization both in membership size and in the range of services offered as well as programs and training provided to the members,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “And under his leadership, CMCA has also received numerous awards, particularly in the safety and environmental arenas, in recognition of its programs and efforts.” According to the ATA, as CMCA president, Fulton led the charge against a myriad of overly burdensome and unrealistic emissions standards initiatives, defeated repeated attempts to toll Interstate 70 or ban trucks from using I-70 between Denver and the ski resort areas during peak traffic periods, educated lawmakers and the general public on the dangers associated with highway safety and marijuana legalization and was the first state association to successfully enact legislation to rein in predatory towers. Additionally, Fulton has been named an Honorary Colonel of the Colorado State Patrol, and he was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Colorado Clean Fleet Enterprise Board, which is responsible for the distribution of state grant funds for zero and near-zero emission vehicles. He currently serves as the vice chairman of that board. The President’s TAEC Leadership Award was created in 2002 by ATA to honor a state trucking association leader and to create an enduring legacy for that leader and for the industry. The award comes with a $10,000 grant for a trucking education or research cause to be chosen by Fulton. Past winners of the award are: Alix Miller of Florida, Rebecca Oyler of Pennsylvania, Paul Enos of Nevada, Sheila Foertsch of Wyoming, Chris Maxwell of Rhode Island, Shannon Newton of Arkansas, Shawn Yadon of California, Brenda Neville of Iowa, John Esparza of Texas, Kendra Hems of New York, Mike Riley of Connecticut, Rick Todd of South Carolina, George Burruss of Missouri, Karen Rasmussen of Arizona, Jim Runk of Pennsylvania, Tom Howells of Wisconsin, John Hausladen of Minnesota, Dale Hanington of Maine, Larry Davis of Ohio, Dale Bennett of Virginia, Cathy Gautreaux of Louisiana and Dave Huneryager of Tennessee.

Owner-ops can have their say in the FMCSA Truck Leasing Task Force

Cliff Abbott - October 16, 2024

One of the easiest highways to truck ownership is to enter a lease-purchase agreement with a carrier. Unfortunately, this can also be a path to failure. Some lease operators have complained of predatory practices by carriers, including overpricing of trucks, unfair maintenance and other fees, and deliberate reduction in available loads to encourage default. A task force to study the “terms, conditions and equitability of common truck leasing arrangements” was mandated by a provision in the $1.2 billion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), signed into law in November 2021 by President Joe Biden. The bill is best known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Members of the task force, which includes motor carriers, unions, consumer protection groups, attorneys, educators and owner-operators, were named on May 1, 2023. The task force is to report its findings to the U.S. Secretaries of Transportation and Labor, including recommendations for best practices for informing drivers before they sign agreements, assisting those who are having issues with current agreements, and helping drivers who are currently in predatory agreements. Additionally, the committee is to recommend changes to current laws. Why even bother with a lease-purchase agreement if it could be predatory? When operated properly, lease purchase agreements at their best provide a benefit for both the carriers and the drivers who participate: Carriers find an outlet for used equipment that is often more profitable than simply trading it in — plus, they have an incentive to retain drivers who might have otherwise gone elsewhere for a chance to own their own trucks. Drivers are often offered easier financial arrangements with a low (if any) down payment and less stringent credit requirements. It’s a rent-to-own arrangement that many drivers have used to start their own independent trucking businesses. There are also third-party companies that work with carriers to provide trucks for lease-purchase agreements. These arrangements allow carriers to provide a greater variety of equipment and help lessen the administrative burden from the carrier, who sometimes agrees to collect lease payments and other fees from drivers on behalf of the leasing company. One key benefit of the lease-purchase arrangement is the relative ease of terminating the agreement if things don’t work out. Carriers may offer a “walk-away” lease, where a driver who determines that truck ownership isn’t for them simply turns the truck in and goes back to work as an employee. The carrier is then free to lease the truck to someone else or to dispose of it in some other manner. So, what’s the catch if I can just walk away? Terminating the lease-purchase agreement isn’t always equitable to both partners. If, for example, the driver leasing the truck hasn’t kept up with regular maintenance or the truck has been damaged in an accident, the carrier could be stuck with repairs the cost of which could exceed the value of the truck. In addition, bills for fuel, towing or fines from citations can sometimes come in long after the truck has been surrendered by the erstwhile driver. The driver, on the other hand, may find themselves obligated to have the truck repaired at carrier locations at an expense set by the carrier, and may even be restricted in choices for insurance coverage, registration and even fueling. Some drivers have complained their carrier knew about likely mechanical issues before leasing the equipment and then required the drivers to foot the bill. Because lease payments and other expenses are typically deducted from the driver’s settlements, the amount the driver actually receives can be less than expected — and this may cause hardship at home. Some drivers make the problem worse by not running enough miles to cover the expenses with enough left over for a paycheck. However, other drivers have claimed that carriers cut their miles in an intentional attempt to get them to fail so the carrier could reclaim the truck and lease it to someone else. While a walk-away lease may appear beneficial to a driver who wants out, equity can be an issue. When the driver buys a truck outright and then has difficulty meeting the payments, he or she still owns any equity that has accumulated. It might be possible to sell the truck, pay off the lending institution and have some cash left over. In a lease-purchase agreement, the truck goes back to the carrier, which owns any residual value. The driver may even still owe for any delinquent lease payments. Because many lease-purchase deals include the expectation that the driver will continue working for the leasing carrier until the truck is paid for, the driver is dependent on the carrier for the income needed to make the lease payments. If the carrier loses customers or sees a decline in the amount of business it handles, the driver’s compensation can decline, too. Accusations are sometimes made that the carrier reduced the driver’s income, but such claims are difficult to prove. You can make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. The Truck Leasing Task Force was created to study the different nuances of lease-purchase agreements. Drivers are invited to participate and to submit comments or other documentation. A meeting held on July 18, 2024, for example, lists letters from both the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), as well as comments from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and from a carrier that is 100% owner-operator. Everyone is encouraged to participate in upcoming meetings, which are conducted virtually via ZOOM. However, you must register for the meeting at least a week in advance — and if you want to submit written materials for consideration, you must also do so a week in advance of each meeting. The next meetings will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 30, and Thursday, November 20, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. You must register in advance for the meeting at fmcsa.dot.gov/tltf. A copy of the agenda for each meeting will be available at the same website a week before each meeting. Copies of the meeting minutes are posted on the website after each meeting concludes. A public oral comment period for drivers and lessees of CMVs will be included in each meeting, but due to time constraints, comments will be limited to two minutes. Any written comments, however, will be included in the permanent record. Interested parties can read the announcement of the October and November meetings and register to attend at fmcsa.dot.gov/tltf.

Taking the wheel: Dennis Dellinger elected 80th ATA chairman

Dana Guthrie - October 16, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – After years of hard work and dedication to the industry, Dennis Dellinger, president and CEO of Cargo Transporters based in Hickory, N.C., was elected by the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Board of Directors as its 80th chairman. “I am deeply honored and extraordinarily humbled to have been selected to serve our association and industry,” Dellinger said. “ATA represents every facet of trucking, and our voice is one. I look forward to working with all of you to represent the millions of hardworking men and women who make this essential industry thrive.” Dellinger succeeds Andrew Boyle, co-president of Boyle Transportation, as ATA chairman. “Dennis embodies what is exceptional about trucking, working his way up from the terminal floor to the corner office and now becoming ATA Chairman. His dedication to his company and this industry is inspiring,” said Chris Spear, ATA President and CEO “ATA is lucky to have a chairman who has seen it and done it all in this industry, and I’m eager to continue working with him.” According to the ATA, Dellinger joined Cargo Transporters in April of 1986 as a Driver Supervisor. Through the years, personal and company growth allowed Dellinger the opportunity to serve in the capacity of General Manager, vice president of operations and vice president of Cargo Transporters. In February 2004, he was named president of Cargo Transporters. In 2019 he was named president and CEO where he continues to serve in that capacity. “Under Dennis’ leadership, Cargo Transporters has grown,” the ATA said in a press release. “It has added two terminals [in North Carolina] and a $6 million facility expansion for parking that enabled consolidation of locations and improved operations. Additionally, the Cargo team has won numerous safety and environmental awards, including ATA’s President’s Fleet Safety Award, TCA’s Fleet Safety Award, EPA Smartway Excellence Award, Inbound Logistics’ 75 Green Supply Chain Partners award, and HDT’s Top 50 Green Fleets award. Cargo Transporters has also had one America’s Road Team Captain. In addition to his responsibilities at Cargo Transporters, Dellinger serves as the Immediate Past Chair for Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). Through his leadership and steadfastness, TCA’s programs continued to grow through the challenges of 2020 – 2021 from record attendance at the Fourth Annual Bridging the Border Barriers meeting held virtually, maintaining TCA’s prominence in the Capitol Christmas Tree tradition to vital education webinars led by TCA staff with larger than normal attendance. He also serves on the Board of Directors and Vice-Chair of the Safety Policy Committee at American Trucking Associations (ATA). He represents the North Carolina Trucking Association (NCTA) where he serves on the Board of Directors and is a Past Chairman. He also holds an advisory position with The Trucking Alliance. “I congratulate Dennis as he embarks on what is sure to be a rewarding journey as ATA chairman,” Boyle said. “This position presents a unique opportunity to serve an industry that gives so much to so many across America, and Dennis’ wealth of experience, expertise, and passion for trucking will be of tremendous service to our members throughout the ATA Federation.” The Board also elected Greg Hodgen, president and CEO of Groendyke Transport Inc. in Enid, Oklahoma, as first vice chairman and Derek Leathers, chairman and CEO of Werner Enterprises Inc. in Omaha, Nebraska, as second vice chairman. In addition, Randy Clifford, chairman and CEO of Ventura Transfer Company in Long Beach, California, was elected as vice chairman at large. The Board re-elected John M. Smith, chairman of CRST International Holdings LLC, as secretary and John A. Smith, president and CEO of FedEx Ground, as treasurer.

Holt Truck Centers expands reach with Kyrish Acquisition

Dana Guthrie - October 16, 2024

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – HOLT Truck Centers has acquired Kyrish Truck Centers, bringing the combined number of HOLT Truck Centers locations to 35, making it the third largest International Motors dealership in the United States, a significant milestone for the company’s growth and innovation. “As a family-owned company, this acquisition marks an important milestone in our growth and allows us to expand while staying true to our roots,” said Bert Fulgium, senior vice president of HOLT Group. “Our commitment to putting our customers first remains at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud to welcome Kyrish Truck Centers into our family. Together, we will continue to provide the same level of service and dedication that define us.” According to a media release, Kyrish, a provider of new and used on-highway trucks, operates 20 International Motors, Fleetrite Truck Parts, Idealease, and Longhorn Bus dealerships and service centers in Texas. HOLT Truck Centers is an authorized dealer for International, IC Bus, and Idealease at dealerships in Oklahoma and in North and East Texas. The company also operates seven sales and service locations across Texas, providing comprehensive parts and service for all makes of trucks, RVs, and trailers, including engine rebuilds, diagnostics, maintenance, and emergency services like brakes, drivelines, and transmissions. Headquartered in Houston, Kyrish Truck Centers has been family-owned and operated since 1976, selling medium-duty, heavy-duty, and severe-service duty trucks, and leading Texas as an International and IC Bus dealer, according to the release. “With this acquisition, HOLT Truck Centers will expand its presence in Texas to locations in Austin, Houston, and the Rio Grande Valley,” the release said. “The 550 current Kyrish Truck Center employees will become employees of HOLT Truck Centers and will continue to operate from current locations. Longhorn Bus will continue to operate under that brand and is the authorized IC Bus dealer throughout Texas.”

Diesel prices make another significant jump

Bruce Guthrie - October 16, 2024

Diesel prices rose another five cents on average this week. The average rise in price was despite a suspension of fuel tax in Georgia, thanks to a declaration of emergency by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp due to Hurricane Helene. That tax suspension drops the price of diesel in Georgia approximately 33 cents on average. California’s slip from $4.742 to $4.734 represents the only regional drop in the nation. New England’s rise was minuscule from $3.765 to $3.766 is the slightest increase of all the reporting regions. The Gulf Coast is one of the largest increases in the country jumping from $3.266 to $3.337 while the midwest rose from $3.587 to $3.651. The remaining regions represent average increases of around two cents per gallon.

Trucker Tools launches fraud ID features to protect against threats

Bruce Guthrie - October 15, 2024

CHICAGO — Trucker Tools, a freight-tracking technology company, announced that it is set to launch its new Fraud Toolkit. This suite of advanced fraud identification features is designed to combat the growing challenge of fraudulent activities in the freight industry, providing freight brokers with the identification of increasingly sophisticated threats. “The freight industry is facing unprecedented challenges from bad actors who are constantly evolving their tactics,” said CEO Kary Jablonski. “With the rise in sophisticated fraudulent activities, freight brokers need tools to identify fraud quickly. We know that double brokering alone claims $500 million – $700 million from carriers and brokers annually Our fraud identification tools help our customers combat this.” In a recent media release, the company outlined some of the new product’s features including International IP Activity identifies access from IP addresses outside North America. It ensures that tracking data is only submitted from within the expected region and notifies users if someone attempts to send location updates outside North America. IP Masking identifies and notifies customers when location updates are identified from IP masking solutions such as VPNs, hosting servers, or proxies. By ensuring that location updates come from legitimate carriers rather than masked IP addresses, this feature helps users quickly identify potential attempts to spoof locations. VOIP Phone Number identifies when a load track phone number is VOIP and sends immediate notifications to the user. This helps flag possible attempts at identity masking through easily changeable VOIP numbers, often used by fraudulent actors to obscure their true identity. Custom Carrier Network – Enables brokers to select which carriers can book, view, or interact with your loads and source quality out-of-network carriers to add to their network. Our private load boards allow only validated and trusted carriers to access your loads. Proactive Location Verification – Keep your pickup numbers protected even after a load has been booked. Pickup numbers are only released once the driver has started tracking. Custom geofencing helps prevent theft throughout the load track by sending automated updates when a driver enters or exits a geofenced location. Geotagged Document Scanning – Drivers must take a photo within the Trucker Tools interface to ensure document scanning is done in real-time and at the correct location. All document scans are geotagged to determine where and when an upload occurred. All six features run automatically in the background, only notifying the broker when a potential threat is identified. Trucker Tools has also implemented an alerting system to ensure brokers can take swift action when potential fraud is identified. The alert system features include: 247k Location updates outside of North America are blocked per month on average 5420 VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) numbers are identified per month on average “Trucker Tools also promises that customers will receive immediate email notifications for suspicious activities. New fraud-related statuses will also be visible in the Load Track portal, allowing brokers to flag and manage suspicious loads easily,” the release stated. “These fraud alerts can also be incorporated into the customer’s Transportation Management System (TMS) for seamless integration into existing workflows.”

Truckers unite against trafficking: Trucker Path launches innovative reporting tool partnership with TAT

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

PHOENIX, Ariz. NASHVILLE, Tenn, – Trucker Path is expanding the reach and awareness about TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking) by adding the organization’s Report feature to the Trucker Path app. Trucker Path made the announcement at ATA’s Management Conference & Exhibition (MCE) that it is amplifying the mission to prevent human trafficking by TAT joining the Trucker Path app, along with ATA’s Women In Motion (WIM) Council, as part of the company’s mission to improve quality of life on the road for truckers and to support valuable industry associations. “We are proud to be able to use our platform to help TAT reach the one million professional truck drivers who use the Trucker Path app,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “Spreading the word about their mission aligns perfectly with our goal of being a conduit for information from great organizations like TAT and WIM.” According to a media release, the Trucker Path partnership with TAT will add the Report feature on the organization’s app to the Trucker Path app. The newly added feature will extend the reach of TAT information to the users of Trucker Path and enable them to easily access the information they need to report a suspected human trafficking event. Established in 2009, TAT’s mission is to educate, equip, empower and mobilize members of key industries and agencies to combat human trafficking. “The more truck drivers we can educate on what to look for and how to report an incident, the greater our chances of disrupting human trafficking,” said Esther Goetsch, TAT executive director. “When truckers — and others in transportation — find themselves in the right place at the right time and are empowered to know the right way to respond in the moment, not only can trafficking be reported, but lives can be changed and saved. We’re excited to think about how this partnership will increase the visibility of these efforts.” The Trucker Path and WIM partnership promotes the safety of professional female truck drivers on the road by identifying truck stops with key amenities identified as necessities by female drivers. To date, 320 truck stops qualify as having at least one and 18 have all seven amenities, including lighted parking, lounge areas, showers, bathrooms, and laundry facilities and 24/7 security and maintenance, according to data in the release. ATA’s Women In Motion’s mission is to empower and connect women across the transportation industry by cultivating a nurturing a safer environment. “It’s great to have a partner like Trucker Path that offers such a large community of users,” said Nikki Thomas, vice president, industry affairs at American Trucking Associations. “The ability of the Trucker Path app to search for WIM-friendly truck stops makes the roads safer for female drivers and helps us recruit the next generation of drivers that our industry so desperately needs.”

Averitt earns coveted recognition as top provider in Mastio Quality Awards

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Averitt has earned the distinction of being named as a top provider and the leading asset-based carrier across all three evaluated categories in the 2024 Mastio Quality Awards. “These awards reaffirm the commitment our team brings to every mile we travel,” said Barry Blakely, president and chief operating officer at Averitt. “Being recognized as a top provider and the leading asset-based carrier speaks to the remarkable and dedication of our associates. We are grateful to our customers for their trust in us, and we are committed to continuing to serve with the same level of care and reliability.” According to a company press release, the awards reinforce the company’s reputation for delivering exceptional service quality and customer value in the Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) sector. “As a top Overall, top Inter-Regional, and Most Recommended LTL Carrier, Averitt’s recognition shows its commitment to exceeding customer expectations through exceptional service and innovation,” the company said in the release. “The Mastio study reveals how Averitt’s value and service strength is perceived in the marketplace compared to its competitors. By actively embracing customer feedback, Averitt is dedicated to maintaining strong service standards and building lasting relationships with customers, strengthening its position as a reliable partner in the industry.” According to the release, the recognition is based on Mastio & Company’s 20th Edition LTL Carrier Study, which identifies and quantifies the perceptions and needs of LTL freight customers. The 2024 findings are drawn from interviews with over 1,600 customers. A total of 164 LTL carriers were rated, and 23 carriers had enough ratings to be included in the report. The study also gathered around 5,700 qualitative responses through three open-ended questions, with data collected via telephone interviews from key decision-makers between June and late September 2024. For more about Averitt and its commitment to service quality, visit Averitt.com/Awards.

Trucking Diva’s Rock: Dee Sova honored for championing women in the trucking industry

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Prime Inc. driver Dee Sova has been recognized by the American Trucking Associations’ Trucking Cares Foundation with the 2024 Trucking Cares Foundation’s John Lex Premier Achievement Award for her many contributions, including the founding of Trucking Diva’s Rock, an online community for female truck drivers. “Dee is the real deal – someone whose personal and professional story has been assembled throughout her adult life,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “As a life coach to women in the industry, mentor to grieving parents and widows and a professional driver with 33 years and three million safe driving miles under her belt, she starts each day with the goal of making a difference in other peoples’ lives. Dee has given a face and voice to the more than 350,000 independent contractors across the country who chose to support the trucking industry and our nation’s economy.” Sova received Prime’s 2017 Highway Diamond of the Year award and is a member of Prime’s Driver Advisory Board, according to an ATA press release. She is the founder of Trucking Divas Rock, an online community for female truck drivers. The groups also has a YouTube channel as well. Sova has also held several leadership positions with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The Trucking Cares Foundation is the trucking industry’s charitable arm, focusing on several core areas, including humanitarian and disaster relief; eradicating human trafficking; leadership development; strengthening the industry’s relationships with law enforcement, the military and veterans’ organizations; and safety and research opportunities.

Thomas J. Donohue remembered for devotion to industry

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

WASHINGTON – On Monday, the American Trucking Associations’ president and CEO Chris Spear honored the passing of Thomas J. Donohue, former president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and ATA. “America has lost one of the most passionate advocates for free enterprise,” Spear said. “Tom was a powerful voice for all businesses, employers and their employees. His time as President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations cemented his unyielding commitment to our industry. He was a persuasive leader, a personal mentor to me and a dear friend. Tom leaves the world better than when he entered it.” Donohue joined ATA as president and CEO in 1984 before leaving in 1997 to lead the Chamber The Chamber also commented on Donohue’s passing in a press release. “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American business community, and our nation mourn the passing of Thomas J. Donohue,” the Chamber said. “Throughout his extraordinary life, Tom was many things—friend, mentor, statesman, storyteller, fighter, advocate, and patriot. Above all else, he was a dedicated family man, and our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. According to the release, as a business leader, Tom was “a towering figure,” and across his decades-long career, his Irish toughness, combined with his genuine compassion, made him a unique and impactful voice in Washington and around the world. He gave business a seat at the table and a voice in the debate in a way it never had before. “In 1997, after 13 years leading the American Trucking Associations, Tom took the wheel of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce,” the Chamber said. “It is no exaggeration to say he resurrected the Chamber, taking the institution from good to great and from productive to powerful—and standing up for business from the nation’s capital to every corner of the globe. He never backed down from a fight that was necessary for a cause he believed in, leading the American business community and building the Chamber into the largest and most effective business organization in the world. He did it with high energy and absolute integrity, always keeping his promises and keeping his word. Tom’s mantra was simple: ‘If you can, you must.’” Donohue took the helm of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 1997, after 13 years leading the American Trucking Associations, according to the release. He retired in 2021 but continued to serve on the U.S. Chamber Board of Directors. Earlier in his career, he was deputy assistant postmaster general of the United States and vice president of development at Fairfield University in Connecticut. Born in New York City, Donohue earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and a master’s degree in business administration from Adelphi University. Donohue passed away on Monday. He was 86.

Spear’s call to action: Unite and fight for trucking’s future

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Citing a presidential election, a deeply divided Congress and a series of challenges, opportunities and threats facing the industry, American Trucking Associations President and CEO Chris Spear delivered his annual state of the industry address on Monday, saying the ATA Federation is uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of today’s political environment and drive outcomes for its membership. “The stage is set,” Spear said. “The stakes are high and in just three short weeks, we’ll know the direction our country takes,” Spear told a crowd of industry leaders attending ATA’s Management Conference and Exhibition, representing all 50 states and every segment of the trucking industry. Regardless of the outcome, ATA will remain at the table. Our story is the rock that breaks the wave. It speaks to all sides and serves as the start of every idea and possibility, never the afterthought.” Spear said that there is a nexus between trucking and kitchen-table economics that makes the industry an “ideal partner of choice for government decision makers and that it is a key reason why ATA is positioned to drive outcomes in Washington, and state capitals across every part of the country, regardless of which political party holds power. “We contribute to each and every meal,” Spear said. “We understand the choices people have at their local stores, the prices they pay and why those costs keep going up. And we know what needs to happen in order to lay that table; pay those bills; and afford those back-to-school clothes, shoes and supplies…we know the daily pressures faced by American families, because we are those families. Our 8.5 million employees aren’t just moving goods; we’re supporting the lives of millions of hardworking Americans who depend on trucking each day to keep this country running smoothly.” On policy matters, Spear underscored ATA’s dedication to cutting emissions and called for a commonsense approach on energy and the environment, “focusing on the overall goal: reducing emissions.” “Anyone that’s ever rented an EV has experienced range anxiety,” Spear said. “Let’s ease those fears by adopting a commonsense approach toward the environment, one that reduces emissions and doesn’t bankrupt an industry – now moving 72.5% of our nation’s freight, including everything American families need just to get by.” According to Spear, that includes repealing a century-old, punitive federal excise tax on heavy-duty trucks and trailers that penalizes fleets for investing in newer, cleaner, and safer vehicle technology. It also means supporting alternative fuels, such as renewable diesel, which can offer greater lifecycle carbon-emission reductions at a fraction of the cost of other near-zero fuel sources like battery-electric. Spear called out the Biden Administration for a lack of leadership on the recent port strike along the East and Gulf Coasts, saying the shutdown resulted from administration policies that have emboldened big labor bosses at the expense of our economy and regular Americans. “Allowing our East and Gulf Coast ports to shut down while thousands of Americans are reeling from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene defies all common sense,” Spear said. “Not one of the 65 seaports in this country ranks in the top 50 in the world for efficiency or productivity. That is not something to be proud of.” Spear also took aim at Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su’s independent contractor rule that eliminates driver choice and makes it exponentially harder for professional drivers who operate independently. More than 350,000 truckers choose to work as independent contractors because of the economic opportunity it creates and the flexibility it provides, enabling them to run their own business and choose their own hours and routes. Another key moment was Spear’s highlighting of ATA’s focus on tort reform, citing the ATA Federation’s recent success in enacting reforms in Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana and West Virginia that curb lawsuit abuse, and pointing to further victories next year. “ATA won’t stand for the plaintiff bar’s abuse of the civil litigation system,” Spear said. “And our efforts are paying off. In 2024, 13 more states introduced lawsuit abuse reform bills.” Spear called on every ATA member to stay engaged, which he called the key to prevailing on all these fronts. “So today, I ask each of you to commit,” Spear said. “Commit to amplifying our story. Commit to standing with ATA. “Together, we can shape the future of trucking, ensuring that our industry remains the engine of America’s economy. With your support, ATA will continue to be the driving force behind our growth.”

Meet the trailblazers: 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking Award finalists announced

Dana Guthrie - October 15, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. – Three outstanding women have been named as finalists for the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking Award. The award is given by The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) and sponsored by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA). “The award was developed in 2010 to recognize female leaders and to attract and advance women in the trucking industry,” WIT said in a press release. “The award highlights the achievements of female role models and trailblazers in the trucking industry.” The 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking award finalists are: Lisa Gonnerman, vice president of enterprise services, TA Dedicated. Gonnerman is a seasoned professional with more than 32 years of experience in trucking, leading safety and operations and playing an instrumental role in shaping safety practices and policies nationwide, according to the release. Currently serving as vice president of enterprise services with TA Dedicated, Gonnerman excels in safety leadership and mentorship. Throughout her career, she has held influential positions including serving as the National Chair of the American Trucking Association (ATA) Safety Management Council from 2019 to 2021 and being named ATA National Safety Director of the Year in 2016. Beyond ATA, Gonnerman is the current chair of the Minnesota Safety Council leadership team and past safety conference chair. Her participation in key industry bodies, like the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and the FMCSA’s CSA subcommittee, further emphasizes her leadership. Gonnerman advocates for a culture of safety and is passionate about mentoring future leaders, especially women in trucking. An active member of Women in Trucking, she continues to inspire others while making a positive impact on her community through her involvement with organizations like Make-A-Wish. Sheri Aaberg, chief operating officer, Transport Enterprise Leasing. Aaberg excels in creating organizations where people matter, where they are challenged and where they have the opportunity to grow, according to the release. The culture Aaberg has created while leading at companies in the trucking industry throughout the last 24 years is one of excellence in performance, customer service and team development. As the chief operating officer of Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC, (TEL), Aaberg and her vision have been instrumental in the company’s growth and operating excellence since she joined TEL in 2014. She has overseen the development of process and organizational structure that has been key to the firm’s success, the release noted. Under her guidance, TEL’s lease portfolio has grown from 1,200 truck and trailer assets on lease to more than 9,300 vehicles. Employee headcount has grown exponentially, and TEL has been able to expand from its Chattanooga headquarters to a second location, an equipment reconditioning and remarketing facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. Aaberg has served on the board of the Used Truck Association and is a member of the Heavy Truck Blue Book Advisory Committee. Her speaking presentations have included engagements with the Truckload Carriers Association, Used Truck Association Conventions, TruckPaper forums and Blue Book seminars. Through her leadership and executive sponsorship, Transport Enterprise Leasing has joined and become active in both national and state-level trucking associations. Tracy Rushing, executive director of safety, RE Garrison Trucking Inc. Rushing began her career nearly 30 years ago in Forest, Miss., weighing trucks and calculating driver timesheets, according to the release. Since then, she has advanced through various roles in the transportation industry, learning safety management, FMCSA Regulations and driver relations. In 2022, she joined RE Garrison Trucking as the Executive Director of Safety, overseeing the safety, recruiting and orientation teams. Rushing is an active member of the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM), Truckload Carriers Associations (TCA) and the Safety & Maintenance Management Council of the Alabama Trucking Association (SMMC). She serves on the Risk Management Advisory Committee of the ATA Comp Fund (RMAC), the Women in Trucking Membership Committee (WIT) and as the chair of the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) Safety, Recruiting and Retention Committee.Rushing has earned certifications from the North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI) as a Certified Director of Safety (CDS) and as a NATMI Instructor. In 2023, she was honored as the Alabama Safety Director of the Year Runner-Up.Faith and family have been her source of strength and motivation throughout her career. She is enthusiastic about mentoring and supporting women in trucking, believing strongly in their contributions to this vital industry. The award finalists will participate on a panel discussion at the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo held in Dallas, Texas, November 10 – 13, 2024. The winner will give a HERstory speech following the panel discussion.

Stormie Janzen recognized by ATA for unwavering commitment to the trucking industry

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Stormie Janzen, Total Transportation of Mississippi’s vice president of safety and recruiting, has been honored for her tireless work and dedication to advocacy on behalf of the trucking industry with the 2024 Cathy Evans Highway to Victory Award. “Stormie’s advocacy has been instrumental in ensuring truckers’ voices are heard, and her efforts have directly benefited America’s supply chains,” said Ed Gilroy, ATA chief advocacy and public affairs officer. “When ATA needed help putting pressure on key Members of Congress to advance a crucial legislative initiative, this industry leader worked with colleagues and State Trucking Associations to lead a grassroots movement to push our bill forward. When that bill becomes law, it will be due in no small part to her invaluable support.” According to the ATA, Janzen has a long record of advancing trucking’s agenda dating from her time as an ATA staffer to her current role as a leader at Total Transportation of Mississippi. She is an active ATA member, sitting on the Federation’s Safety Policy Committee, Controlled Substances Subcommittee, Driver Health & Wellness Subcommittee, Membership Committee and ATA’s Women in Motion Council. Janzen has been with TOTAL Transportation since 2019. She is responsible for leading the teams responsible for recruiting and developing a safety-focused fleet. Prior to joining TOTAL, she spent two and a half decades working in and around Washington D.C. for the American Trucking Associations and the United States Senate. Her experience with various people and organizations gave her a keen ability to look for the right talent to join TOTAL and aptly instruct them. Janzen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and English from the University of South Alabama. Named for longtime ATA lobbyist Cathy Evans, the Highway to Victory Award is presented annually to an ATA member who has made significant contributions to the Federation’s advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels. Past winners include: John Chipman Jr., Chipman Relocation & Logistics. Mike Card, Combined Transport Inc. Robert Low, Prime Inc. Randy Guillot, Triple G Express. Robert Haag, Perfect Transportation. Greer Woodruff, JB Hunt. Derek Leathers, Werner Enterprises Inc. Brian Parke, Maine Motor Transport Association.

Three organizations receive Mike Russell Trucking Image Award for enhancing the trucking industry’s reputation

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Three organizations have been honored by the American Trucking Associations with the 2024 Mike Russell Trucking Image Award. “Since it was first handed out in 2007, 61 individuals and companies have been honored with the Mike Russell Award,” said Nikki Thomas, ATA vice president of industry affairs. “We are excited to add this year’s winners to our list of those who are as passionate about promoting the industry’s image as we are at ATA. The applications this year were true testaments to the power of storytelling and innovation.” According to the ATA, the award is given to those who are committed to improving the image of the trucking industry. “Each year, the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award is given to an individual, motor carrier, trucking organization and industry supplier who each demonstrate excellence in illustrating the industry’s essentiality, professionalism and commitment to safety on and off the highways,” the ATA said in a media release. “The award is sponsored by Great West Casualty Company.” This year’s winners include: The Ohio Trucking Association. Meijer Logistics LLC DDC Freight Process Outsourcing LLC “Great West Casualty Company is proud to sponsor the Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award,” said Steve Ponder, Great West Casualty Company senior vice president. “This award celebrates companies, organizations, and individuals who generate awareness of the trucking industry. We’re honored to support an award as significant as the Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award. Thanks to the influence of past and future award winners, the image of trucking has become increasingly positive each year.”

ATA welcomes 22 industry visionaries to the 12th class of LEAD ATA

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The American Trucking Associations has honored 22 men and women from across the industry that have been selected as part of the 12th class of the Federation’s LEAD ATA program. “We see graduates of the LEAD ATA program in the highest levels of our association,” said Chris Spear ATA president and CEO. “The future of our industry can be seen in these fine men and women. We are excited to welcome this new crop of talented individuals into the program and look forward to their growth over the coming year. Their participation will ensure that the future of trucking is in good hands.” LEAD ATA is a prestigious year-long leadership program designed to develop the future leaders of the trucking industry, according to an ATA press release. This year’s incoming class consists of 22 leaders, representing a wide variety of companies from across the nation. These individuals were selected through a competitive process, highlighting their dedication, leadership potential and commitment to the industry. The program is sponsored by Tenstreet and Drivers Legal Plan who recognize the importance of cultivating the next generation of trucking leaders. As this incoming class embarks on their journey, they join a growing network of LEAD ATA alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions to the industry. “It is tremendous to see so many talented men and women stepping up and engaging with our association through the LEAD ATA program,” said incoming ATA Chairman Dennis Dellinger, president and CEO of Cargo Transporters Inc. “I’m looking forward to seeing their growth as leaders and how they help shape the future of ATA and our industry.” The 2024-2025 LEAD ATA Class: Rebecca Anderson, Transland Jill Apperson, AppleOne Staffing, Inc. Jeff Bethers, CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. Christy Choice, Tenstreet Justin Copeland, URS Midwest, Inc. United Road Kelly Crow, FedEx Freight Steven Edwards, FedEx Freight Randy Efird, Weaver Brothers Inc. Michael Floyd, Professional Auto Transport, Inc. Blake Grolmus, Ruan Transportation Management Systems Robert Hamon, FedEx Freight Will Haymons, Bennett Family of Companies Rocco Marrari, Pedigree Technologies Michael Petzold, Moran Transportation Corporation Taylor Rodriguez, United Parcel Service Kevin Scott II, United Parcel Service Daniel Simnick, Navistar, Inc. Ben Slaton, Cummins, Inc. Jeff Smith, Martin Heavy Transport Dayton Stevens, CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. Charles Stewart, Houston Freightliner, Inc. Kyle Zimmerman, Volvo Trucks North America 2023-2024 LEAD ATA Class Graduates: Ryan Bennett, Bennett Family of Companies Joseph Briner, Hoffman Transportation, Inc. Jackie Bull, Cummins, Inc. Christopher Eckhart, Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary, P.C. Andy Engardio, AssuredPartners Matt Fleming, Ruan Transportation Management Systems Manny Hoyt, TrueNorth Companies Quetura Hudson, DDC FPO Joshua Mecca, Grammer Logistics Isaac Ramirez, United Parcel Service Derek Sizemore, United Parcel Service Adam Smith, KSM Transport Advisors Joe Soliz, Link Labs Dana Spencer, CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. Joshua Wallace, FedEx Freight For more information on the LEAD ATA program or the incoming class, please visit https://www.trucking.org/lead-ata

Volvo Trucks AI-powered maintenance solution hits the road

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

Volvo Trucks North America has unveiled significant enhancements to its Blue Service Contract, a dealer-managed preventive maintenance solution designed to maximize fleet uptime and efficiency, according to a company press release. “There have been substantial improvements in service intervals in our products over the years,” said Magnus Gustafson, vice president connected services, Volvo Trucks North America. “We find that many fleets are over-maintaining their trucks, which can be costly. Applying AI to optimize maintenance intervals based on truck specs, operating conditions and actual use ensures our customers can maximize the uptime of their Volvo trucks. The Blue Service Contract leverages the integrated connectivity of our trucks and incorporates our uptime services to provide customers with a simplified and more effective maintenance solution. This connectivity is a defining feature of Volvo trucks, including on the all-new VNL, the most connected truck ever built.” Powered by proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) models, the adaptive maintenance system adjusts service intervals dynamically based on factors such as fuel consumption, idle time and oil samples, the release noted. This data-driven approach replaces traditional static intervals with customized and optimized schedules, ensuring the right maintenance at the right time. By consolidating services into fewer planned stops, the system maximizes uptime for customers and keeps trucks on the road longer. The announcement was made at the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) 2024 Management Conference & Exhibition in Nashville, Tennessee. “With the highly adaptive Blue Service Contract, customers benefit with service schedule optimization, bundling services into one stop, leading to reduced operating costs,” the company said. “Conversely, if a truck has seen unusually demanding conditions for a prolonged period of time, the adaptive maintenance AI model will recommend service sooner, reducing the likelihood of unplanned downtime. In both scenarios, uptime is improved, resulting in better economic outcomes for customers. Dealers proactively schedule service visits using connectivity within the Blue Service Contract, allowing customers to focus on business growth while knowing maintenance is being managed efficiently to keep trucks in peak operating condition.” The new features are enabled by Volvo Trucks’ integrated connectivity solutions, which monitor the entire truck that is connected to the 24/7 Volvo Trucks Uptime Center, according to the release. This allows fleet managers and their dealers to monitor and manage trucks in near real-time. The Blue Service Contract leverages this connectivity and ensures that the service bay, technician, and all necessary Volvo genuine parts are on-hand when the truck arrives at the dealership, expediting service and returning the truck to the road quickly. The service is available throughout Volvo Trucks’ expansive dealer network, regardless of where the truck was purchased. “In addition to adaptive maintenance, the Blue Service Contract now offers increased flexibility, allowing customers to choose specific services covered under their contract,” the company said. “New contract service options include fuel filters, valve adjustments, pickup and delivery, truck washes, DOT inspections, additional chassis lubes, and other add-on services, providing a white glove experience for drivers and fleets. These services can be customized for individual trucks, enabling operators to create a tailored fleet management strategy that makes their job simpler and hassle-free.” According to the release, the Blue Service Contract can be paid via ACH, FleetPreferred or as part of truck financing through Volvo Financial Services in fixed monthly payments with no interest expense. The Blue Service Contract is available on all Volvo trucks that are 2023 model year and newer. During launch activities for the all-new Volvo VNL, customers reported a day of downtime represented a revenue loss of between $800 and $5,000 underscoring the importance of optimized maintenance. Volvo Trucks continues to onboard dealer locations with training and sales support, to ensure they can offer the Blue Service Contract and bring all these benefits to customers. Dealer management groups such as Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment (13 locations), Vanguard Truck Centers (10 locations), Nextran Truck Centers (8 locations), Bergey’s Truck Center (6 locations), Nacarato Truck Centers (6 locations), McMahon Truck Centers (3 locations), Tri-State Truck Center (3 locations), Northwest Equipment Sales and others, are among the growing list of certified Blue Service Contract dealers.

Three industry vanguards presented with 2024 ATA Change Leader Awards

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The American Trucking Associations presented 2024 ATA Change Leader Awards to companies and individuals for their commitment to creating a culture of acceptance and belonging for their employees during the convention “The trucking industry is a vibrant source of quality careers for Americans from all walks of life. It is a place where individuals can find acceptance, belonging and personal fulfillment, serving as the glue that keeps America together. ATA believes that diversity has been a key factor in the industry’s past and present success,” said Sarah Rajtik,ATA COO. “The purpose of the ATA Change Leader Award is to recognize ATA members who are committed to fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging for their employees.” According to an ATA press release, the ATA Change Leader Award nominations were critiqued on the ability to develop an inclusion program, improve an existing program and measure and benchmark a successful culture of acceptance. This year’s winners include: Atlas World Group for their work in developing a modern, comprehensive DEI training course, ensuring that all employees have access to relevant and effective education. Jessie King, a professional driver for FedEx Freight, for committing to educating, encouraging and empowering employees and helping them succeed in their careers. Ceramex North America for creating several initiatives that support employee engagement and inclusion including health and wellness programs, transparent communication channels and leadership development programs. Past winners of the ATA Change Leader Award include Believers Trucking, Cargo Transporters Inc., Covenant Logistics, Garner Trucking Inc., Knight-Swift Transportation, Kodiak Robotics, Pilot Flying J, Werner Enterprises Inc., Cummins Inc., FedEx Ground, Locomation, Trimac Transportation and U.S. Xpress.

SeaPort Manatee resumes fuel distribution, serving hurricane-impacted region

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

PALMETTO, Fla. – Fuel is once again flowing from SeaPort Manatee terminals to Southwest and Central Florida and beyond, serving the needs of a region impacted by the Oct. 9 landfall of Hurricane Milton. “Thanks to cooperative efforts between Manatee County, state and federal authorities and industry partners, fuel distribution activities have resumed at SeaPort Manatee as of this morning,” said Kevin Van Ostenbridge, chairman of the Manatee County Port Authority. According to a company media release, as power restoration began at Manatee County’s seaport, limited landside cargo operations resumed, while, per U.S. Coast Guard direction, waterside operations resumed during daylight hours, with shipping channel activity limited to a single direction. “SeaPort Manatee is a critical gateway for supplying fuel stations throughout our region and beyond, with a flow of nearly 400 million gallons a year,” said Carlos Buqueras, SeaPort Manatee’s executive director. “It is particularly crucial that we have been able to see resumption of this fuel supply at a time when our area has been hit by two hurricanes in such a short period of time.” Located “Where Tampa Bay Meets the Gulf of Mexico,” SeaPort Manatee is a dynamic global trade hub, serving as the vibrant ships-to-shelves gateway for burgeoning Southwest and Central Florida markets, with convenient rail and roadway links, including to the distribution-center-filled Tampa/Orlando Interstate 4 corridor, according to the release. “The closest U.S. deepwater seaport to the expanded Panama Canal, SeaPort Manatee offers 10 deep-draft berths, proficiently fulfilling diverse demands of container, liquid and dry bulk, breakbulk, heavylift, project and general cargo customers,” the release said. “The self-sustaining port generates more than $5.1 billion in annual economic impacts while providing for more than 37,000 direct and indirect jobs – all without benefit of local property tax support.”

Unlocking cybersecurity secrets with Stephen Viña at NMFTA conference

Dana Guthrie - October 14, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Cybersecurity is quickly becoming one of the major issues in the logistics industry and the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is taking note by hosting Stephen Viña, director of the White House’s Office of the National Cyber Director as the keynote speaker for this year’s Cybersecurity Conference. The conference is set for October 27-29 in Cleveland, Ohio and will be held during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month It is North America’s only cybersecurity event for the trucking industry. “The conference is devoted to protecting both the physical rolling assets and the backoffice systems. Less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload carriers, third-party logistics providers (3PLs), shippers, government, and academia are encouraged to register,” the NMFTA said in a media release. The price to attend is $249 for NMFTA members; $349 for nonmembers. Vina is the Assistant National Cyber Director for Legislative Affairs at the Office of the National Cyber Director in the Executive Office of the President. Previously, he was a Senior Vice President at Marsh, where he served as a cyber insurance broker and claims specialist. Prior to joining Marsh, Stephen spent nearly fifteen years on Capitol Hill advising Members of Congress on security issues. During this time, Stephen helped pass several major pieces of cyber legislation and held leadership positions in both the House and Senate, including Chief Counsel for Homeland Security on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and Subcommittee Staff Director on the House Committee on Homeland Security. Stephen began his professional career at the Congressional Research Service where he focused on homeland security matters. Stephen is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and holds a law degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law in Fort Worth, Texas (now Texas A&M University School of Law). While at the conference, aside from hearing Viña speak about the latest national cybersecurity strategy and its direct impact on the trucking industry, attendees will have a unique opportunity to learn, network and gain valuable insights from leading cybersecurity experts and peers. Those attending will have the chance to participate in a number of activities including: Participate in a Business Continuity Tabletop Exercise and work as a team to discuss roles and responses through one or more example scenarios. Sharpen their skills and enhance their knowledge through workshops, panel discussions, and featured presentations. Stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Gain insight into the steps one must take once a cyberattack has occurred and how to achieve the path to resiliency. The conference will also feature two fireside chats, which will allow attendees to hear real talks, from real fleets, who have fought back against real hacks. Industry experts from Estes Express Lines, Ward Transport & Logistics Corp., DAT Freight & Analytics, Werner Enterprises, and XPO will lead the discussions alongside NMFTA experts. Fireside Chat: Recent Hacks, Lessons Learned, and the New Reality – Industry experts will share first-hand experiences and offer practical advice for trucking executives navigating the complex world of cybersecurity and the new realities of leading in this new era of building a cyber-resilient operation. Fireside Chat: Present and Future of Cybersecurity in Trucking – Attendees will gain insight into innovative strategies that protect businesses from cyber threats but also enhance the customer experience which is critical to standing out from others in the industry. “Approximately 1 in 4 of all cybersecurity attacks target the transport and distribution industries,” said Joe Ohr, chief operating officer for NMFTA. “The biggest threat to the trucking industry isn’t from roads traveled or soft markets, but from cyberspace. With rapid tech adoption, vulnerabilities are growing. It’s crucial for carriers, shippers, and 3PLs to prioritize efficient and effective cybersecurity measures to mitigate these risks.” In March, a ransomware attack on Ward Transport & Logistics Corp. compromised over 500 gigabytes of data, crippling its network and halting operations. In 2023, Bison Transport, Estes Express Lines, Forward Air Corporation, Marten Transport, and the Port of Los Angeles also faced disruptions as a result of a cyberattack. With the average ransomware attack costing companies $5 million, and some reaching up to $1.1 billion, proactive cybersecurity measures are no longer optional—they’re essential. Industry suppliers who serve the trucking industry are welcome to attend to have direct time with executive-level decision makers after reserving a sponsorship. Media representatives can attend at no charge. To learn more, contact Marli Hall, director of public relations for NMFTA, at [email protected].