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More freight should mean higher rates — so why isn’t it happening?

DAT’s Truckload Volume Index (TVI) for August rose month over month for the dry van, refrigerated and flatbed segments tracked. DAT reported an increase of 2.8% from July for dry van, 4.3% for refrigerated and 0.3% for flatbed. Also in August, however, national average spot freight rates fell for all three segments, with dry van falling by a nickel a mile, refrigerated by four cents and flatbed by seven cents. The news wasn’t all bad, though. DAT’s TVI showed a 6.3% improvement over August 2023, and the refrigerated TVI was up 17.6%. “Linehaul rates were year-over-year positive for the first time since March 2022, a trend that should continue into the fall shipping season,” said Ken Adamo, chief of analytics at DAT. “However, year-over-year comparisons are little consolation for truckers looking for better pricing now.” Increasing Costs Because of inflation, truckers are already contending with higher prices for everything they purchase — with the exception of fuel — but fuel is often covered by a surcharge and isn’t included in the DAT rate calculations. The recent half-percent rate cut by the Federal Reserve isn’t likely to show up on credit card interest for months, if at all, and existing truck loans with fixed interest rates won’t be impacted anyway. A 2024 update on the Operational Costs of Trucking, published in June by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), reported that trucking costs, minus fuel, rose by 6.6% in 2023 compared to 2022 costs. Insurance premiums and truck and trailer payments are growing at the fastest rates: From 2022 to 2023, insurance costs rose 12.5%, while truck and trailer payments rose 8.8%. It’s important to note that those increases added to even higher increases the year before. In 2022, for example, truck and trailer payments rose 18.6% and then rose another 8.8% in 2023. Respondents to another ATRI survey reported that those costs continued to rise in the early months of 2024. ATRI reported that driver wages rose by 7.6% in the same period, but truck owners are finding it difficult to increase their take-home cash after paying the increased business costs. Those that are leased to carriers may be seeing a higher per-mile compensation. The Seasonal Factor A part of the rate problem in August is seasonal. Harvests of vegetables and early fruits have mostly been completed and shipped, leaving refrigerated trucks to compete for dry van loads. Grain harvests are beginning, but these products are mostly handled by hopper-bottom or dump equipment. In short, August is typically a slow shipping month, which translates to lower shipping rates. The Cass Freight Index for Shipments reported a 1.0% increase in shipments, but a decrease from last August of 1.9% following a 1.1% decline in July. “These were the smallest declines in 18 months as goods demand continues to grow slowly — and slowing capacity additions reduce the pressure on for-hire shipments,” wrote Tim Denoyer, vice president and senior analyst for ACT Research, who administers the Cass report. The Cass report is compiled using billing data from its clients and includes data from trucking, rail, ship, air and pipeline transportation segments, with about 75% coming from trucking. The data skews towards contract freight rates rather than the spot market. Politics Play a Role There’s no denying that this year’s presidential election, along with numerous other races at both the federal and state levels, have created uncertainty in the trucking industry. “We generally strive to base our outlook on industry economics, rather than politics … but no strategy worth its salt can avoid election implications right now,” Denoyer wrote. Those implications, according to Denoyer, include elevated near-term uncertainty and slowing industrial activity as normal short-term features of presidential elections. “Almost regardless of the outcome, some combination of near-term softness and post-election relief recovery in freight demand is thus likely,” he said. Available Freight The American Trucking Associations (ATA) weighed in with its Truck Tonnage Index, which showed an increase of 1.8% in available freight in August. The ATA index is comprised of survey data received from its membership and leans heavily to contract freight. “August tonnage levels rose to the highest level since February 2023,” said Bob Costello, chief economist for ATA. “Not only does the latest robust gain show freight levels are coming off the bottom, but so does the sequential pattern over the last eight months,” he said. “Starting earlier this year, every time tonnage falls, it is higher than the previous low. For me, this month-to-month pattern is more important than looking at the year-over-year percent changes since we are at an inflection point in the freight market.” Possible Port Strike The Motive Monthly Report for September showed a 7.7% increase during August in truck visits to warehouses of the top 50 U.S. retailers. The report noted an increase in inventory-to sales ratios, indicating that retailers are increasing their stocks ahead of the holiday season. There’s another reason, however. A labor agreement between the International Longshoremen Association (ILA) and port owners is due to expire, and a deadline of Oct. 1 has been set to reach a new agreement. The ILA handles 43% of all U.S. imports, moving through ports on the East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico. A strike could impact consumer goods, causing shortages and price increases. Shipping costs, already on the rise, will be pushed further upward, both by shortages caused by a strike and by higher labor costs once agreement is reached. With the election so close, President Biden isn’t likely to become involved in the negotiations unless conditions become severe. A strong holiday retail season would be a badly needed boon to the trucking industry, but potential strikes at Eastern ports could remove a lot of freight from the market. In the meantime, both presidential candidates have discussed import tariffs that could dampen trade. Per Diem Boost In other news, per diem rates are increasing from $69 to $80 per day, effective Oct. 1. This 16% increase in per diem amounts to another $21 per day on the road to deduct from the income tax bill. This is especially important for owner-operators who pay self-employment tax, as it can increase tax deductions as much as $3,000 to $4,000 per year. That’s not much difference to struggling trucking businesses … but every little bit helps. In the meantime, truckers are still waiting for conditions to get better.

Meet Gatik’s new head of first responder engagement: Clint Kneip

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.— Clint Kneip will take the helm at Gatik as head of first responder engagement for the autonomous middle mile logistics company. “Clint’s proven track record in enhancing commercial highway transportation safety will be a tremendous asset to Gatik as we scale our Freight-Only operations,” said Rich Steiner, vice president of government relations and public affairs at Gatik. “With Clint on our team, we’re ensuring that our autonomous operations not only meet but exceed the expectations of first responders and the communities in which we operate. Under his leadership, we are building comprehensive, scenario-based training programs to address a variety of operational contexts, such as high-traffic urban environments, highway merges, accident response, and emergency stop protocols. His expertise will be crucial in elevating our safety and compliance standards, setting new benchmarks for the autonomous trucking industry.” According to a company media release, in his new role, Kneip will lead the development of relationships between Gatik and first responder agencies, focusing on the company’s First Responder Interaction Protocol (FRIP) for Freight-Only operations, ultimately supporting Gatik’s mission to ensure safe and compliant operations of its autonomous freight vehicles across the United States. His extensive experience overseeing safety protocols and collaborating with national safety entities will be instrumental as Gatik expands its operations and scales Freight-Only deployments, reinforcing the company’s dedication to safe, compliant, and community-focused autonomous logistics. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join and work with Gatik, a leader in the commercial autonomous vehicle industry,” Kneip said.. “I look forward to the challenges, growth, and expertise that I can bring to this field.” Kneip brings over 20 years of experience from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), where he served as Captain of the Commercial Vehicle Section. During his tenure at CHP, Kneip was instrumental in improving commercial highway transportation safety and fostering relationships with key national and state safety entities, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). As the Chair of the CVSA’s Commercial Motor Vehicle – Automated Driving System Working Group, he played a pivotal role in developing the guidelines for commercial vehicles equipped with automated driving systems, directly influencing policy and operational protocols nationwide. As Head of First Responder Engagement at Gatik, Kneip will work to proactively address community needs and uphold the company’s commitment to safe and responsible autonomous logistics. He will conduct training, develop instructional materials, and facilitate interactions between first responders and Gatik’s autonomous vehicles to ensure safety and compliance. He will also support Gatik’s Compliance and Government Relations teams, working to align the company’s approach with national and state policies and standards. Kneip will also provide testimony and engage with law enforcement agencies in priority states to influence and support AV legislation, according to the release. His appointment underscores Gatik’s dedication to working closely with first responders to ensure the successful deployment of autonomous technology across the United States, according to the release.

Dry van spot rates sink to their lowest level since June 2020 on Truckstop board

According to data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ended Sept. 20 (Week 38), broker-posted spot rates for dry van equipment fell to their lowest level since June 2020, a “notable benchmark” according to a Sept. 24 press release. Dry van spot rates in the latest week were a tiny fraction of a cent lower than they were during a single week in May 2023, which had been the previous low since June 2020. Total spot rates and rates for flatbed equipment had already been at their lowest level since July 2020. Refrigerated spot rates are not as weak as the other equipment types relative to history, although they declined in the latest week to their lowest level since April. With the growth in truck postings outpacing the uptick in load postings, the Market Demand Index declined to 58.4, which is the lowest level in three weeks. Following is a breakdown of rate activity for the past week. Total spot load availability Total load activity edged 0.9% higher to the highest level in seven weeks after jumping nearly 20% during the week following Labor Day week. Load postings were 3.6% below the same 2023 week and about 34.5% below the five-year average for the week. Total truck postings rose 3.7%, and the Market Demand Index — the ratio of load postings to truck postings in the system — declined to its lowest level in three weeks. Total spot rates The total broker-posted rate decreased 2.6 cents to the lowest level since July 2020 after declining just over 2 cents in the prior week. Rates were 4% below the same below the same 2023 week and more than 10% below the five-year average. The current week (Week 39) historically has seen mostly rising rates for dry van and flatbed but mostly declining rates for refrigerated. The all-in broker-posted rate has been predominantly negative year over year since April 2022, but the lowest diesel prices in nearly three years shows a somewhat different picture for carriers’ overall finances when compared to last year summer when diesel prices were surging. Excluding fuel costs (as estimated by a hypothetical fuel surcharge), broker-posted rates have been positive year over year for the past 10 weeks. Dry van spot rates Dry van spot rates declined more than 3 cents after falling just over 6 cents during the previous week. The decrease was expected as dry van rates have fallen in every week 38 since 2018. Rates were more than 6% below the same 2023 week — the largest negative year-over-year comparison since March — and almost 17% below the five-year average for the week. Excluding an imputed fuel surcharge, rates were 4.6% higher than the same 2023 week. Dry van loads barely changed, ticking up 0.4%. Volume was about 26% below the same 2023 week and close to 49% below the five-year average. Refrigerated spot rates Refrigerated spot rates fell nearly 8 cents after declining 2 cents in the prior week. As with dry van, refrigerated spot rates have fallen in every week 38 since 2018. Rates were 3.5% below the same week last year and close to 13% below the five-year average. Rates excluding an imputed fuel surcharge were up 5.6% year over year. Refrigerated loads fell 8.9%. Volume was almost 9% below the same 2023 week and about 40% below the five-year average for the week. Flatbed spot rates Flatbed spot rates declined just over a half-cent for the 13th decrease in the past 14 weeks. In recent years, flatbed rates have mostly risen in Week 38 and declines have been small. Rates were more than 4% below the same 2023 week and about 10% below the five-year average for the week. Flatbed rates excluding an imputed fuel surcharge were up 4.7% year over year. Flatbed loads increased 3.1%. Volume was 15.5% above the same week last year but more than 28% below the five-year average.

ATRI seeks insights on changing truck driver demographics

WASHINGTON —  The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) is conducting research to understand the make-up of the U.S. truck driver population and how it is changing over time.  ATRI will assess over 20 years of survey data from truck drivers, and this latest truck driver survey will provide the newest information on the composition of the truck driver population today – allowing the research to compare changing trends. “As a driver with 33 years on the road, I have seen our driver workforce change over time. Understanding what the truck driver population looks like today is crucial to ensuring that our needs are properly addressed – whether through support, training, or policies that are specifically tailored to truck drivers,” said Richard Frazer, an America’s Road Team Captain and professional driver with Walmart Transportation. “This survey will provide valuable insights into the driver community and highlight areas where we can continue to grow.”  According to an ATRI media release, the brief survey will seek insights on professional and personal aspects of truck drivers today, enabling ATRI to understand the shifts in the truck driver population over the last few decades. All collected data will be kept completely confidential.  The survey is being conducted in concert with ATRI research that is assessing how underrepresented groups might be recruited into the trucking industry, including women, foster care participants and formerly incarcerated individuals.   Truck drivers are encouraged to participate in the survey by clicking here. 

Extension to emergency waiver granting suspension of hours of service regulations in response to Oregon wildfire activity

SALEM, Ore. — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued another extension to the emergency waiver originally issued in July as a result of the imminent wildfire threat. Due to the threat Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency for Oregon effective July 12. (Executive Order No. 24-13). On July 24 FMCSA approved an extension to Director Strickler’s July 16 emergency waiver (ODOT EW 24-02). As of September 23, FMCSA has issued another extension to the emergency waiver. This Extension of the Emergency Declaration is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until the end of the emergency (as defined in 49 CFR §390.5T) or until 11:59pm (ET), October 1 whichever is earlier. Please review and print the FMCSA waiver for complete details and requirements. For current road conditions visit TripCheck.com.

Volvo completes delivery of 70 VNR electric trucks as part of $21.5 million grant program

Volvo Trucks North America announced that it has successfully delivered 70 Volvo VNR Electric trucks as part of a $21.5M funding initiative supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD). According to its media release, the project, named “SWITCH-ON,” has deployed these zero-tailpipe emission trucks to several fleets across Southern California for regional freight distribution and drayage. Initially announced in 2020, SWITCH-ON is now one of the nation’s largest commercial deployments of Class 8 battery-electric trucks. To date, Volvo Trucks has delivered more than 570 Volvo VNR Electric trucks across 31 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The SWITCH-ON project was backed by up to $19.5 million from the EPA’s Targeted Air Shed Grant Program, supplemented by $2 million from South Coast AQMD for charging infrastructure, aiming to improve air quality in the region. The first 15 trucks delivered were the first generation of commercially available Volvo VNR Electric trucks, while the remaining 55 are next-generation models featuring extended range and faster charging capabilities. Fleets participating in the SWITCH-ON program include: CEVA IMC Logistics McLane NFI Performance Team, a Maersk Company Pier Enterprises Group Inc./DBA DC Logistics Western Regional Delivery Service/South Coast Transportation & Distribution Volvo says these trucks will collect data on performance in drayage and freight applications through 2025, providing at least a full year of operational insights for all the trucks. “There are challenges on the road to electromobility adoption, but through close collaboration with public entities, utilities, manufacturers and other key industry partners, we can overcome these barriers and achieve our zero-emission goals,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “We’re pleased to say that with successful collaboration, we’ve together been able to find solutions that are critical for these fleets and have been able to deploy the 70 Volvo VNR Electric trucks. By sharing our experiences and overcoming these challenges, we are paving the way for a broader industry adoption, just as we did with the Volvo LIGHTS project and our participation in the JETSI project.” Beyond the SWITCH-ON program, Volvo Trucks has also introduced other innovative solutions to accelerate battery-electric vehicle (BEV) adoption including working with Volvo Financial Services to launch Volvo on Demand that follows the Truck-as-a-Service (TaaS) business model. With Volvo on Demand, customers can minimize the upfront investment associated with transitioning to battery-electric trucks and leverage the established electromobility ecosystem tailored for Volvo VNR Electric trucks in North America. “Infrastructure development remains a challenge for fleets, even with public funding,” said Wayne Nastri, South Coast AQMD’s Executive Officer. “Through SWITCH-ON, fleets have explored innovative solutions to utilize battery-electric trucks despite infrastructure delays. We are committed to supporting zero-emission technology and improving air quality in our communities while enabling businesses to thrive.” The EPA Targeted Air Shed Grant Program focuses on regions with the highest ozone and particulate matter (PM) pollution, including California’s South Coast Air Basin. South Coast AQMD is the agency responsible for attaining state and federal air quality standards for this region, which includes large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties, including the Coachella Valley. “Getting to zero emissions in transportation and addressing the air pollution harming our communities, especially those that bear the brunt of freight movement emissions, requires us to adopt clean technologies on a large scale,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “We at EPA are proud to support this public-private partnership, funding the deployment of these 70 electric trucks.” The 70 Volvo VNR Electric trucks deployed through this grant are expected to provide lifetime emission reduction benefits exceeding 152.63 tons of NOx, 1.317 tons of PM2.5, and 53,160 tons of CO2. South Coast AQMD will lead the data analysis efforts to evaluate the full breadth of emission reduction opportunities presented by battery-electric trucks. All 70 of the Volvo VNR Electric trucks will be supported by TEC Equipment – Fontana, which played a key role in helping Volvo Trucks develop the Certified Electric Vehicle Dealership certification as part of the Volvo LIGHTS project. TEC Equipment – Fontana will serve as the primary resource for participating fleets, providing local support for driver training, maintenance, and repairs to maximize fleet uptime and performance.

ATA Technology and Maintenance Council names 17 scholarship winners

RALEIGH, N.C. – Thanks to the generosity of the American Trucking Associations’ Technology and Maintenance Council, 17 students from across the country have received scholarships to pursue careers as commercial vehicle technicians or engineers, bringing them one step closer to fulfilling their dreams. “Finding innovative solutions to our industry’s ongoing technician shortage is a priority for TMC, and the Council is pleased to be able to partner with WyoTech, Western Technical College, Lincoln Tech, University of Northwest Ohio, Universal Technical Institute and SAE to bring these scholarship opportunities to fruition,” said Robert Braswell, TMC executive director “These initiatives provide greater choice for deserving scholarship-seeking students looking to prepare for a career as a commercial vehicle technician.” According to an ATA media release, the scholarships are managed by the council’s Technician & Educator Committee in partnership with several technical schools, industry vendors and allied organizations.   TMC/Lincoln Tech/NADC Diesel Truck Technician Scholarship winners will receive half the tuition for a 1,200- to 1,560-hour training program at one of six Lincoln Technical Institute/Lincoln College of Technology schools across the country. Winners include:  Aaron Lanter of Richmond, Ky.  Thomas McNamara of West Springfield, Mass.  Asher Dunn of Lancaster, Ky. Tucker Brown of Barbourville, Ky.      Shaliah Mae Kohlenberg of DuBois, Pennsylvania, was named the 2024 TMC/University of Northwest Ohio Scholar, which consists of an award for tuition in the amount of up to $20,000. Winners of the TMC/WyoTech Diesel Truck Technician Scholarship, which consists of a partial scholarship of up to $5,000 each include:  Wesley Bihn of Portland, Ind. Eric Culley of John Day, Ore. William Gallacher of Carrizozo, N.M. Jayden Walker of Milton-Freewater, Ore.  Winners of a half-scholarship for UTI’s diesel technology program or the combined automotive/diesel technology program include:  Maggie Bockenstedt of Farley, Iowa. Cooper Hambright of New Cumberland, Penn.  Juan Carlos Palacios of The Bronx, N.Y. Bryan Perpuli-Ochoa of Las Cruces, N.M.  Raul Vega Jr. of Tornillo, Texas, was awarded the 2024 TEC/Western Tech Scholarship, covering 50% of the tuition to pursue a degree in diesel mechanics and diesel technology at Western Tech. Winners of the TMC/SAE Donald D. Dawson Technical Scholarship, consisting of three $1,500 scholarships, which can be renewed for three years and used for tuition or any other incidental school expenses while pursuing an undergraduate degree in automotive engineering include:  Zachary Been of Bakersfield, Calif.  Bryan Edgar of Huntsville, Ala. Josh Cassell of Worcester, Mass.  A complete list of scholarship rules is featured on the application and can be found on TMC’s website. Completed scholarship application packages for 2025 must be received by the TMC office by April 15, 2025 and winners will be notified by May 15, 2025. 

Diesel prices rise for the first time in more than two months

The streak is over. After nine straight weeks of national decline, diesel prices rose, even if slightly, from a national average of $3.526 to $3.539 per gallon. The major culprit was the Midwest region who had been dropping along with the trends, rose by three cents per gallon from $3.481 to $3.511. Meanwhile the Gulf Coast rose two cents from $3.172 to $3.191 The New England region fell  again this week from $3.818 to $3.797. The East Coast and Central Atlantic saw little change. The Lower Atlantic also fell slightly from $3.479 to $3.467 The Rocky Mountain region started going up last week and went up again this week rising from $3.588 to $3.608

Motel 6 sold to Indian hotel operator for $525 million

The budget motel chain Motel 6 is being acquired by the parent company of Oyo, a hotel operator based in India. The New York-based investment firm Blackstone, which owns Motel 6’s parent company G6 Hospitality, announced Friday that the deal would be an all-cash transaction worth $525 million. The transaction will also include the sale of the Studio 6 motel brand, which caters to customers seeking extended stays. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year. Oyo, which launched in India just over a decade ago, has been expanding its footprint in the U.S. over the past few years. The company says it currently operates 320 hotels across 35 states and is aiming to add 250 more this year. “This acquisition is a significant milestone for a startup company like us to strengthen our international presence,” Gautam Swaroop, OYO’s international division chief, said in a statement. Blackstone had purchased Motel 6 and Studio 6 in 2012 for $1.9 billion. Since then, the private equity giant says it has heavily invested in the brand and pursued a strategy that converted the chain into a franchise. “This transaction is a terrific outcome for investors and is the culmination of an ambitious business plan that more than tripled our investors’ capital and generated over $1 billion in profit over our hold period,” Rob Harper, the head of Blackstone Real Estate Asset Management Americas, said in a statement. Under the deal, Oravel Stays, which owns Oyo, will acquire G6 Hospitality.

Relay Payments expands its fraud-free digital network

ATLANTA — Partnering with a prominent national truckstop like Love’s will give Relay Payments another leg up for a business that is not even six years old yet. Relay Payments, the fintech company modernizing payments for the trucking and logistics industries, is announced via media release its integration with Love’s Travel Stops, broadening its fraud-free digital payment network. According to the release issued,since launching its fuel payments solution in 2023, Relay is now used  by more than 400,000 drivers and 100,000 carriers for secure, over-the-road payments, including fuel, scales, cash advances, and lumpers. Relay’s customers include the country’s largest carriers and logistics companies, including Schneider, Coyote Logistics, and Old Dominion. Adding Love’s Travel Stops to its network, alongside Pilot, Maverik, Yesway, AMBEST, Onvo, and more, marks a significant step toward modernizing over-the-road payments for the trucking industry. As a result of its rapid adoption, Relay has now processed millions of transactions with zero instances of fraud. “Relay’s acceptance at leading fueling stops speaks to the rapid adoption of our solutions and the industry’s need for a comprehensive and secure digital payment network,” said CEO Ryan Droege. “Our mission is to build an end-to-end digital payments network designed specifically for the trucking and logistics industry, helping fleets and drivers keep more of their earnings and reduce frustrations.” When using Relay for fuel payments, carriers and drivers benefit from: A nationwide payment network that protects companies from fraud; A comprehensive suite of over-the-road digital payments for fuel, scales, and lumpers that increases hours of service and improves the driver experience; A 24/7, U.S.-based customer service team that answers the phone in under 30 seconds. “At Gulf Relay, we thoroughly vet new vendors to ensure they help us save time and money,” said Andy Vanzant, Chief Operating Officer at Gulf Relay. “Relay Payments has not only met our expectations but exceeded them, and our drivers love using Relay at their favorite Love’s locations across the country. Relay has set a new standard for how our drivers pay for goods and services over the road.

NEXT Logistics clinches third Fleet Safety Award from WMCA

MARSHFIELD, Wis — NEXT Logistics, part of the Nelson-Jameson family of companies, has won a Fleet Safety Award from the Wisconsin Motor Carrier Association (WMCA) for the third consecutive year. “With a commitment to continuous training as well as efficient systems and expert logistics to ensure customers receive their orders on time and securely – the throughline for NEXT Logistics and Nelson-Jameson is safety,” said Mike Rindy, Nelson-Jameson president. “Receiving this safety award for the third consecutive year validates our commitment to employee safety and an accident-free workplace, at home and on the road.” According to a company media release, the award honors the safest truckload fleets in Wisconsin. NEXT qualified for a Fleet Safety Award for Division 2 with 545,507 accident-free miles in Wisconsin, nearly 60,000 more than the company drove the previous year. The extraordinary record exemplifies the company’s extensive safety training, job shadowing, and regular safety check-ins with employees to stress the importance of safety in the workplace. WMCA is a non-profit trade association representing the interests of Wisconsin’s truck and transportation owners. With more than 1,400 members, including Nelson-Jameson, the WMCA is affiliated with the American Trucking Associations (ATA) in Washington, D.C. The award was presented at WMCA’s annual Safety Luncheon.

TPM unveils Trucklots software, app for real-time parking reservations by drivers, fleets

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. —  Truck Park Management (TPM) has debuted the nationwide rollout of the Trucklots software and app, a dedicated technology platform designed exclusively for real-time parking reservations by drivers and fleets as well as lot management capabilities for parking lot operators. “Our primary focus is to enhance the value and experience for truck drivers and the industry at large,” said Danny Loe, TPM chief executive officer. “We’re committed to addressing the widespread issues of inadequate and inconsistent rest areas and parking. Our holistic approach prioritizes safety, compliance, and quality amenities.”   Headquartered in Little Rock, Ark., the company aims to solve the urgent issues faced by truck drivers and fleet owners by offering a reservation-based, secure parking platform across the United States along with software for efficient lot management, the development of overnight lots full of amenities and providing real estate management services for truck yard owners.   According to a company media release, by partnering with FoxDen Capital, a Little Rock based capital firm, and top industry experts and executives, TPM has secured $15 million in growth and development capital to kickstart its initiatives. The company is laser-focused on the acquisition, development, and management of truck parking facilities that exceed current industry standards. A key component of TPM’s innovative approach is the Trucklots software and app. The user-friendly app and its complete integration offering streamlines the process of finding secure, reservable parking, ensuring ease of access and convenience for its users from the point of booking to checking in and out from the reserved stay. Alongside Trucklots, TPM offers a full suite of services, including reservation-enabled overnight parking, long-term parking, and parking lot management. The comprehensive approach is designed to offer unparalleled value to truckers, carriers, and logistics companies, according to the release.   “One of the standout features of TPM will be developing and managing highly amenitized parking lots,” the company said in the release. “These lots range from fifteen to thirty acres in size with upwards of 500 parking spots at each location, making it a scalable solution for trucking companies of all sizes. Some of the types of amenities are to later include a secure space for showers, lounge and kitchen area amenities, fitness facilities, laundry, health clinics, a pet wash and more” TPM said the company has an ambitious growth strategy to build the nation’s largest truck parking platform. It plans to operate and manage 200-300 parking sites within the next five years, covering major state highways and interstates as part of its nationwide network. 

Fritz Nelson named CFO of Depot Connect International

TAMPA, Fla.  — Fritz Nelson is taking the helm at Depot Connect International (DCI) as the company’s new chief financial officer. “DCI’s commitments to safety, innovation, operational excellence and customer service set it apart in the industry, and I am excited to contribute to its growth,” Nelson said. “I look forward to working with Chris, the leadership team and all our talented employees to drive financial success and support DCI’s mission.” According to a company press release, Nelson is a distinguished executive with more than three decades of experience in corporate finance, strategic planning and financial management. He most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of commercial truck component maker Accuride Corporation. Prior to that, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of industrial manufacturer Acument Global Technologies. “Fritz‘s extensive financial expertise coupled with his track record of driving efficient growth make him a fantastic addition to our leadership team,” said Christopher Synek, chief executive officer at DCI. “I look forward to having him join our organization and am confident that his insights, strategic view and experience at global industrial companies will help drive DCI’s continued success.” Nelson will be based in Tampa, Fla. at DCI’s headquarters.      

Kristin White steps into role as acting administrator for FHWA

WASHINGTON — Following the surprise resignation of former Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Administrator Shailen Bhatt, Kristin White, the agency’s deputy administrator, has picked up the reins as acting administrator, according to a Sept. 18 statement released by FHWA. White joined the agency as chief counsel in July 2024 and moved into the role of deputy administrator in May 2024. According to FHWA’s statement, White has helped lead the agency to oversee key FHWA programs and new initiatives created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “I am honored and humbled to lead the Federal Highway Administration at this pivotal time as we deliver on the promise of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” White said. “I am passionately committed to serving alongside the incredible leaders and public servants at FHWA to promote our mission of a world-class system that is safe, efficient, equitable and sustainable for all,” she said. “The dedicated public servants of FHWA are working tirelessly each and every day to improve the lives of the American people.” Before joining the FHWA, White served as COO for the Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America), a nonprofit founded by Congress to advance safety and mobility through transportation technology and innovation. She was also the co-founder and executive director of Minnesota’s Office of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV-X), a tech startup and idea incubator within government that research and deploys transformational technology and policy. She began her career as a Fulbright Fellow with the State Department in Japan. White holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Olaf College, a law degree from Hamline University School of Law and global arbitration certification from Queen Mary University of London.

Rethinking freight brokerage: Tai Software and Denim unite to simplify operations and payments

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. —  Tai Software has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Denim, a technology-enabled freight factoring partner for brokers. “We love creating automated processes that eliminate manual data entry across an organization,” said Walter Mitchell, CEO of Tai Software. “This integration shows how committed we are to developing modern innovative solutions that help freight brokers build their business. Busy freight brokers can now save time on freight billing, reduce manual invoicing errors, and get paid faster–all within a system they trust.” According to a press release, the two-way digital integration lets users send important job details from Tai to Denim with a single-click. Load details are created as jobs within Denim’s portal to eliminate duplicative data entry. In return, Denim updates payment status and dates inside Tai’s platform, giving brokers a clear view of both payables and receivables. Tai Software is the industry’s fastest-growing TMS, providing a next-generation digital operations platform for growth-minded freight brokers, according to the release. Tai offers efficiency and scalability through full-scale automation of both the FTL and LTL shipment lifecycle. Through integrations with industry-leading partners, Tai provides brokers with a data-driven and user-friendly centralized freight management platform. Customers report a revenue increase of up to 30% year-over-year after switching to Tai’s TMS. “Denim is a trusted freight factoring partner on a mission to advance the supply chain by accelerating the movement of money and data. Denim delivers fast access to the working capital brokers need, when they need it,” the release said. “With advanced back-office automation tools, Denim improves trucking company efficiency by reducing tasks by 75%, allowing businesses to focus on growth.”

DAT: Truckload volumes and rates diverged in August

BEAVERTON, Ore. — Truckload freight volumes and rates continued on divergent paths in August, with shipments rising and prices falling for the third straight month, according to information released by DAT Freight & Analytics. The DAT Truckload Volume Index (TVI), an indicator of loads moved in a given month, increased month over month for all three equipment types in August: Van TVI: 289, up 2.8% Refrigerated TVI: 220, up 4.3% Flatbed TVI: 287, up 0.3% Year over year, the TVI was higher for both van and refrigerated freight, with van TVI up 6.3% and refrigerated up 17.6%. The flatbed TVI dipped 0.7% from August 2023. Meanwhile, August lived up to its reputation as a tough month for truckload rates. “Linehaul rates were year-over-year positive for the first time since March 2022, a trend that should continue into the fall shipping season,” said Ken Adamo, DAT’s chief of analytics. “However, year-over-year comparisons are little consolation for truckers looking for better pricing now.” Spot and contract rates declined in August. National average spot truckload rates declined for all three equipment types compared to July: Spot van: $2.01 per mile (down 5 cents) Spot reefer: $2.41 a mile (down 4 cents) Spot flatbed: $2.41 a mile (down 7 cents) The average van linehaul rate was $1.60 a mile, down 3 cents month over month but 3 cents higher than August 2023. The refrigerated rate fell 2 cents to $1.96, 1 cent higher year over year. The flatbed rate tumbled 5 cents to $1.92, still 2 cents higher year over year. Linehaul rates subtract an amount equal to an average fuel surcharge. National average rates for freight moving under long-term contracts also dropped compared to July: Contract van rate: $2.40 per mile, down 3 cents Contract reefer rate: $2.74 a mile, down 7 cents Contract flatbed rate: $3.08 a mile, down 3 cents Monthly average contract rates for all three equipment types have been year-over-year negative since August 2022, reinforcing the protracted pricing challenges of truckload carriers. Approximately 85% of all truckload freight moves under contract. Load-to-truck ratios fell. National average load-to-truck ratios turned lower for all three equipment types: Van ratio: 3.6, down from 4.2 in July, meaning there were 3.6 loads for every van truck on the DAT One marketplace Reefer ratio: 6.0, down from 6.5 Flatbed ratio: 9.8, down from 11.9 Load-to-truck ratios reflect truckload supply and demand on the DAT One marketplace and indicate the pricing environment for spot truckload freight.

Gatik’s new AI Research Group gains momentum with Aleksandr Petiushko at the helm

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.  —  Gatik has welcomed Aleksandr Petiushko as head of the Gatik AI Research Group. “Petiushko will lead Gatik’s ambitious research agenda to advance autonomous transportation technologies by addressing the industry’s most complex challenges through sophisticated AI research that seamlessly integrates robust academic methodologies with scalable industrial applications,” the company said in a press release. According to the release, the Gatik AI Research Group is actively establishing partnerships with top-tier academic institutions, leading scientists and research experts to drive forward innovations in AI, facilitating access to cutting-edge research and elite talent. The group’s research framework focuses on the entire autonomy stack, leveraging state-of-the-art AI methodologies that fuse academic rigor with industrial scalability. This broad strategy aims to enhance critical areas of the autonomy stack, focusing on improving system functionalities like predictive modeling, mapping accuracy, perception algorithms, and decision-making processes. By optimizing these components, the goal is to significantly boost the efficiency, safety, and reliability of autonomous systems in complex Operational Domains (ODDs). “I’m excited to welcome Aleksandr, one of the world’s leading talents in AI, as the head of our AI Research Group,” said Gautam Narang, CEO and co-founder of Gatik. “Our primary aim is to set new standards for smarter, safer, and more efficient transportation. Aleksandr’s proven expertise in advancing AI for safety-critical applications is unparalleled. His work involves enhancing the accuracy and reliability of AI models unlocking the benefits of autonomous driving technology at scale,” Petiushko, formerly the Head of Machine Learning Research at Nuro, brings a deep and accomplished expertise in machine learning, expertly integrating innovative theoretical research with applied, real-world implementations, according to the release. At Nuro, he played a pivotal role in advancing the state-of-the-art in autonomous vehicle technology by developing and deploying robust machine learning models and prototypes that prioritized safety, reliability, and efficiency. Additionally, he is an adjunct professor of ML and AI at Sofia University and lecturer at Lomonosov Moscow State University on the Theory of Deep Learning. He has contributed to numerous academic publications at top conferences and journals in the areas of artificial intelligence, computer science, and mathematics. The release also noted, that with this appointment, Gatik reaffirms its commitment to assembling a top-tier team of academic and industry specialists, driving forward the innovation in autonomous technology. This diverse team unites leading researchers and engineers whose pioneering work and expertise are pushing the boundaries of technological advancements in the autonomous vehicle industry.

Bloom joins Sokolis as vice president of operations

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. — Sokolis, a provider of fleet fuel management services, has named industry veteran Laura Bloom as vice president of operations, according to a September press release. “We looked across the country to find a strong leader who excels at operational strategy and execution,” said Glen Sokolis, the company’s founder and CEO. “We’re thrilled to have Laura join the Sokolis team. Her remarkable track record in running operations will be a huge asset as we keep pushing forward with new ideas to make fuel management more efficient.” Bloom has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, focusing on process improvement, data analytics, innovation and enhancing client experiences. She has worked in operations at Merchants Fleet Management, Mercedes-Benz of Boston and Lexus of Manchester. According to the press release, she has a record of aligning operational strategies with rapid growth, leveraging technology to drive efficiency and building high-performing teams. “Laura’s deep experience in the auto industry fits right in with our goal to offer top-notch fleet fuel management services and operational performance,” Sokolis said. “Her ability to think strategically and execute initiatives will be key as we expand and keep leading the way in fuel management.” Bloom says she’s excited about her new role. “What attracted me to Sokolis is its commitment to helping customers manage fleet fueling costs and logistics,” she said. “I look forward to continuing and innovating the company’s mission to drive down fuel costs and simplifying the process for fleet professionals.”

Change at the top: Garrett Eucalitto named AASHTO president

WASHINGTON – Garrett Eucalitto, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) vice president, has been named as the group’s president. Eucalitto will finishing the term of Craig Thompson, former secretary of Wisconsin Department of Transportation and former AASHTO president who stepped down to take on a new role in the education sector. “Commissioner Eucalitto has been a vital presence on AASHTO’s leadership team, helping President Thompson create real change in the areas of safety, workforce development, and making the most of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Jim Tymon, AASHTO executive director. “Craig’s departure is a huge loss for AASHTO and the transportation sector, because we in the industry are all better, stronger, and more thoughtful because of his leadership. And while we hate to see him go, there is no doubt Garrett is the best person to keep forging ahead on Craig’s presidential emphasis areas, as Garrett believes in and acts on those priorities every day leading the Connecticut DOT.” Eucalitto, who has served as AASHTO vice president since his election by the AASHTO Board of Directors in November 2023, will finish out Thompson’s presidency, which will run through the end of October. The AASHTO Board of Directors will then elect a new president and vice president at its Annual Meeting in Philadelphia on November 1. “Craig has done incredible work for AASHTO and its members and I am honored to serve out the remainder of his term as AASHTO president,” Eucalitto said. “Under Craig’s leadership, we have made progress on his priority areas over the last year that will make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve. As he departs, Craig has left us some incredible tools that we can use to keep moving forward together. It was my pleasure to serve alongside Craig over the last several months and I join the whole association in thanking him for everything he’s done for the country and the entire transportation industry.”  

Outpost expands with 4 new yards; adds more than 1,700 semi truck parking spaces

AUSTIN, Texas, and SEATTLE, Wash.  – Outpost is adding four new locations to its nationwide network. “The properties in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, The Inland Empire and Laredo, Texas strengthen Outpost’s presence in critical logistics hubs across the US, bringing online nearly 60 acres of industrial outdoor storage with 1,700+ semi-truck parking spaces,” the company said in a media release. Chicago The 30-acre Chicagoland facility, located at 70 Airport Road in West Dundee, adds more than 1,000 spaces for tractor-trailers and other heavy-duty vehicles. The yard expands Outpost’s network into Illinois and increases total truck parking capacity within the state by nearly 9 percent.  The yard officially opens in October and space can be booked in advance at outpost.us/chicago. Fort Lauderdale The 14-acre Fort Lauderdale yard, located at 12754 Wiles Road in Coral Springs, is Outpost’s first in the state of Florida, adding 370 new truck parking spaces and providing a gateway into the Southeast US, Latin America, and other major Atlantic shipping lanes. The property is centrally located between the Tri-County area of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties, minutes from the I-95 transportation artery. Space can be booked online at outpost.us/fort-lauderdale. The Inland Empire The 4.5-acre Inland Empire yard, located at 15122 Ceres Avenue in Fontana, is Outpost’s first in California with nearly 100 parking spaces. Its proximity within a half-day drive of Los Angeles, San Diego, and Las Vegas makes it an ideal base for local and longer-haul freight operations throughout Southern California and the Southwest. Space can be booked online at outpost.us/fontana. Laredo The 11-acre Laredo yard at 18702 Metropolitan Rd includes 320 parking spaces. Its proximity to the Laredo International Bridge and I-35 north-south corridor facilitates cross-border freight at one of the busiest US land ports. Space can be booked online at outpost.us/laredo2. “As our network continues to expand, motor carriers increasingly look to Outpost as a strategic partner for positioning their fleets, improving asset visibility, and optimizing their real estate investments,” said Trent Cameron, Outpost co-founder and CEO. “This can only be accomplished through our combination of purpose-built technology and the operational expertise of managing yards at scale. Our four new properties strengthen our ability to help these fleets operate more efficiently in critical freight corridors across the US.” Outpost is in the process of deploying $500 million to expand its network of industrial outdoor storage sites. Real estate owners and brokers with potential deals should contact the Outpost acquisitions team at [email protected].