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USDOT counter-trafficking $50,000 award proposals due March 7

WASHINGTON —  The annual U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Combating Human Trafficking in Transportation Impact Award proposal deadline is approaching. The deadline for proposals is Mar. 7. “The award seeks to raise awareness among transportation stakeholders about human trafficking and increase training and prevention efforts to address this crime,” USDOT said. “The award is a component of the department’s Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking (TLAHT) initiative. Additional information regarding DOT’s counter-trafficking efforts can be found online here.” Preventing Human Trafficking  The award serves as a platform for transportation stakeholders to creatively develop impactful and innovative counter-trafficking tools, initiatives, campaigns and technologies that can help prevent human trafficking. It is open to individuals and entities, including non-governmental organizations, transportation industry associations, research institutions and state, local and Tribal government organizations. Entrants compete for a cash award of up to $50,000 to be awarded to the individual(s) or entity selected for creating the most impactful counter-trafficking initiative or technology.  Creative Thinking Wanted DOT intends to incentivize individuals and entities to think creatively in developing innovative solutions to combat human trafficking in the transportation industry, and to share those innovations and lessons learned with the broader community.  Submissions will be accepted through 11:59pm PST/2:59am EST on March 7, 2025. Learn more about previous winners and view the Federal Register Notice for full details. 

North American Transborder Freight rose 3.9% in Dec. 2024 from Dec. 2023

WASHINGTON —  The U.S. Department of Transportation is releasing its December transborder freight numbers in a new report. According to an USDOT press release, North American transborder freight rose 3.9% in December 2024 from December 2023. Transborder Freight between the U.S. and Canada and Mexico Total transborder freight: $126.3 billion of transborder freight moved by all modes of transportation, increasing 3.9% compared to December 2023. Freight between the U.S. and Canada: $62.4 billion, up 2.1% from December 2023. Freight between the U.S. and Mexico: $63.8 billion, up 5.6% from December 2023. Mexico has lead Canada in freight dollar value for the last 22 months Trucks moved $77.6 billion of freight, up 6.0% compared to December 2023. Railways moved $15.4 billion of freight, down 6.2% compared to December 2023. Vessels moved $10.2 billion of freight, down 7.6% compared to December 2023. Vessels moved 8.5% less mineral fuels by dollar value. Pipelines moved $9.0 billion of freight, down 2.1% compared to December 2023. Pipelines moved 1.8% less mineral fuels by dollar value Air moved $5.1 billion of freight, up 9.7% compared to December 2023. Breakdown by Port Detroit, Port Huron, and Buffalo are the top truck ports for U.S. freight flows with Canada.  Laredo, El Paso and Otay Mesa are the top truck ports with Mexico. Detroit, Port Huron, and International Falls are the top rail connection ports for U.S. freight flows with Canada. Laredo, Eagle Pass and El Paso are the top rail connection ports with Mexico. Chicago, Port Huron and Minneapolis are the top pipeline connection regions for U.S. energy freight flows with Canada. El Paso, Hidalgo, and Laredo are the top pipeline connection regions with Mexico. Port of Boston, Arthur and Portland are the top water port connections for U.S. energy flows with Canada. Port of Houston, Arthur and Texas City are the top water port connections for U.S. energy flows on the Southern border. All monetary values are in current U.S. dollars and are not adjusted for inflation or seasonality.

Averitt named PepsiCo’s 2024 Asset-Based Carrier of the Year – South Division

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Averitt is being recognized as PepsiCo’s 2024 Asset Based Carrier of the Year – South Division.  “This award is a testament to the dedication of our associates and their commitment to delivering outstanding service,” said Kent Williams, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Averitt. “We are proud to be recognized by Pepsi and look forward to continuing to meet and exceed expectations.”  Top Five Carrier in Pepsi’s South Division  According to a company media release, the award was given to Averitt for its truckload services, highlighting the company’s strong performance and reliability.  Averitt is among the top five carriers for truckload volume in Pepsi’s South division. Pepsi’s transportation leadership cited Averitt’s on-time performance, which exceeded the company’s goal, as a key factor in earning this recognition.  Averitt provides truckload services across multiple industries, offering dry van, hazmat, and production and event logistics solutions. To learn more, visit Averitt.com/Truckload. 

Volvo Trucks names Canadian Dealer Group of the Year

Gerry’s Truck Centre, a family-owned dealership group with locations in London and Woodstock, Ontario has been named by Volvo North America as its Canadian Dealer Group of the Year. Volvo Trucks North America presented on February 19, 2025, during a special ceremony in Mississauga, Ontario, made the announcement via press release. “This recognition underscores their exceptional contributions in critical areas, including sales volume and market share, customer satisfaction, parts sales, and commitment to sustainability initiatives,” the release stated. Gerry’s Truck Centre has been serving the province for more than 40 years. “Under the leadership of dealer principal Mike Wardle, Gerry’s Truck Centre has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing best-in-class transportation solutions and outstanding customer service,” according to the release. “The dealership group has made significant investments in facility enhancements, employee training, and support for customers transitioning to sustainable transportation solutions. Both locations have also completed the rigorous process to be named Volvo Trucks Certified Electric Vehicle Dealerships.” “We are incredibly honored to be named Volvo Trucks’ 2024 Canadian Dealer Group of the Year. This award reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team, who go above and beyond every day to support our customers with world-class service and innovative solutions,” said Mike Wardle, dealer principal, Gerry’s Truck Centre. “At Gerry’s Truck Centre, we believe in building long-term relationships with our customers and providing them with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the evolving transportation landscape.” “Gerry’s Truck Centre has exemplified what it means to be a Volvo Trucks dealer — delivering outstanding customer service, driving innovation, and embracing sustainability,” Matthew Blackman, managing director, Canada, Volvo Trucks North America, added, “Their unwavering dedication to excellence and their proactive approach to helping customers transition to the future of transportation make them truly deserving of this recognition.” The award was presented on February 19, 2025, during a special ceremony in Mississauga, Ontario,

Walmart rolled through 2024, but challenges appear ahead in 2025

NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart delivered another year of strong sales and profits with its competitive prices an increasingly strong magnet for inflation-weary shoppers, but 2025 appears to come with new challenges in an uncertain economic landscape. The outlook from the nation’s largest retailer for 2025 is as much as 27 cents below analyst projections for per-share earnings and for the quarter, Walmart’s expectations are as much as 7 cents below Wall Street projections. Its sales outlook is also disappointing, potentially a reflection of rising challenges ahead as consumers pull back on spending and President Donald Trump’s tariffs on China and other countries threaten the low-price model that is the core of Walmart’s success. Walmart has built in hedges against some tariff threats. Groceries account for roughly 60%, of its U.S. business, according to the company’s most recent annual report, meaning a huge chunk of sales are not reliant on goods made in China or elsewhere. Still, shares tumbled nearly 9% before the opening bell Thursday and it pulled other big retailers down with it. The retail sector is the biggest decliner in premarket trading and Target slid 2%. Walmart is among the first major U.S. retailers to report quarterly financial results and numbers could provide a hint as to the mood of the American shopper, particularly amid new trade barriers that according to most economists threaten to reignite inflation. Consumers over the past year have increasingly focused more on necessities rather than TVs, furniture or appliances. They’ve become much more discerning about big-ticket purchases because of higher costs for credit as well as for groceries. Walmart has flourished in that environment, using its clout to keep prices down. It’s gained market share, notably among households with incomes over $100,000. Walmart’s online offerings and paid membership, Walmart +, have also drawn wealthier customers. “We have momentum driven by our low prices, a growing assortment, and an eCommerce business driven by faster delivery times,” said CEO Doug McMillon. “We’re gaining market share, our top line is healthy, and we’re in great shape with inventory.” Still, Walmart could be faced with challenges with the new tariffs carrying more economic risks than during Trump’s first term. If Americans are hit by a new wave of price increases, economists say, and with 70% of the U.S. economy driven by consumers a broad pullback in spending would have ramifications beyond Walmart’s sales. Government data last week revealed a sharp drop in January retail sales as cold weather kept more Americans indoors. But it was a much bigger drop than economists expected and the biggest in a year. Sales were revised higher for December, possibly indicating a pullback by consumers after a holiday season splurge. Yet grocery prices, a sore point for American households, continued to rise. Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, reported earnings of $5.25 billion, or 65 cents per share, in the quarter ended Jan. 31. That compares with $5.49 billion, or 68 cents per share, in the year-ago period. Adjusted earnings per share for the most recent quarter was 66 cents. Sales rose 4.1% to $180.55 billion in the quarter. Analysts expected 65 cents per share on sales of $180.07 billion in the fourth quarter, according to FactSet. For Walmart’s U.S. division, comparable store sales — which include online and stores open for the past 12 months — rose 4.6% in the U.S., a bit lower than the 5.3% in the previous quarter. The retailer had a 4.2% jump in the U.S. in the second quarter and 3.8% in the first quarter. Global e-commerce sales rose 16% in the latest quarter, notably slower than the 27% increase in the third quarter. Walmart expects first quarter earnings per share of between 57 cents and 58 cents, well below the 64 cents Wall Street was expecting, and for the year. Walmart expects earnings per share in the range of $2.50 to $2.60. That’s also off the $2.77 that analysts are predicting, according to FactSet. It forecast a 3% to 4% increase in quarterly sales or between $166.35 billion and $167.97 billion. That could be a letdown for industry analysts, who had expected sales of $167.05 billion, according to FactSet. Walmart expects sales to be up anywhere between 3% to 4% for the current year, or between $667.57 billion and $674.05 billion. That too falls short of the $708.72 billion that analysts predicted, according to FactSet.

Rhenus Logistics enhances cross-border transportation solutions

Rhenus Logistics is announcing its enhanced cross-border solutions through Rhenus Beyond Borders (RBB). “In today’s market, you have to adapt and be flexible in order for your goods to reach the market quickly and be successful. Having a logistics provider as a partner and business advisor helps mitigate these global disruptions and support your company to stay competitive,” said Alfonso Ortiz, director of cross-border transportation, Rhenus Logistics Air & Ocean – USA. “With our combined team of experts, we can ensure that businesses navigate cross-border services with confidence and ease, even amid market uncertainties.” Border Complexities The RBB enhancements come as businesses face increased complexities in cross-border trade due to evolving market shifts, nearshoring impact, and U.S. tariff adjustments affecting Mexico and Canada. As a CTPAT-validated company in the U.S. this service is designed to simplify processes and customer support by helping businesses streamline imports and exports between the USA, Mexico, and Canada, saving time and reducing costs. “With reliable northbound and southbound trucking options, Rhenus Beyond Borders ensures the movement of goods through its FTL and LTL services, reaching any part of the U.S., Mexico, and Canada,” the company said in a press release. “This includes customs clearance and documentation support to help customers optimize their supply chains in response to evolving market needs.” Strategic Placement The newly enhanced service also provides warehousing services through strategically located facilities across the borders, with additional warehouses in Dallas, Texas, and Miami, Fla. designated as a foreign trade zone (FTZ). These two cities are logistics epicenters for North America and Latin America Distribution, offering cross-docking and storage solutions to optimize cargo flow across borders. The expansion strengthens Rhenus’ ability to manage complex supply chain requirements with greater flexibility and efficiency across key trade corridors, according to the release. To meet urgent shipments, Rhenus offers expedited trucking services, onboard courier, and air cargo charter options. “Enhanced with our FTL and LCL services, these solutions meet tight deadlines,” the company said. “Rhenus also enhances cross-border coordination through a dedicated team of bilingual and bicultural experts for customer support, including a comprehensive customs brokerage team, to simplify and ensure compliance with import and export regulations.”

Sightly more Americans apply for unemployment benefits last week, but layoffs remain relatively low

Slightly more Americans applied for jobless benefits last week, but layoffs remained in the same recent healthy range. The number of Americans filing for jobless benefits rose by 5,000 to 219,000 for the week ending February 15, the Labor Department said Thursday. Analysts projected that 215,000 new applications would be filed. Weekly applications for jobless benefits are considered a proxy for layoffs. The four-week average, which evens out some of the week-to-week volatility, fell by 1,000 to 215,250. The total number of Americans receiving unemployment benefits for the week of February 8 rose to 1.87 million, an increase of 24,000 from the previous week.

PGT Trucking’s Gregg Troian joins ATRI board

WASHINGTON —   The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) is announcing the appointment of Gregg Troian to its Board of Directors. “We are excited to welcome Gregg to the ATRI Board of Directors,” said Rebecca Brewster, ATRI president, COO. “His experience as a member of the RAC gives him a strong appreciation for our research prioritization process, which combined with his industry expertise makes him an excellent addition to the Institute’s Board of Directors.” Troian, PGT Trucking Inc. president was appointed by ATRI chairman of the board, Derek Leathers, Werner Enterprises chairman and CEO. Proven Leader Troian has more than 40 years of transportation experience, 38 of which have been spent at PGT. Throughout his career, he has held multiple roles in operations, business development and senior leadership. He is the former president and CEO of a large 3PL company. Troian is a current member of the PGT Board of Directors and has played a major role in the growth and development of PGT. He continues to lead the company through the Future of Flatbed initiative. Troian has held elected positions in local government in Western Penn. and was the past chairman of Family House, a non-profit organization providing temporary housing for patients with serious illnesses. He was a member of the 2023-2024 ATRI Research Advisory Committee and a recipient of the 2022 Heavy Duty Trucking Truck Fleet Innovator Award. He serves as vice chairman on Pennsylvania Governor’s Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee through the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce and the Ryder Carrier Advisory Board. In addition to his service with ATRI, Troian is a member of” American Trucking Associations.  American Iron & Steel Institute.  Association for Iron & Steel Technology. Metals Service Center Institute. Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association. Truckload Carriers Association.  Truckers Integral to Our Economy.  A complete listing of the ATRI Board of Directors is available here.

Arpin International Movers assumes contracts for Walkboard Technologies

WARWICK, R.I. —  Arpin International Movers has assumed the contracts of Walkboard Technologies Inc. “At Arpin, we understand that employee relocation is more than just a move—it’s a critical moment in their professional and personal journey,” said Peter Arpin, president of Arpin International Movers. “That’s why, as we welcome Walkboard’s customers into the Arpin system, we are committed to maintaining stability, minimizing disruption, and preserving trusted relationships.” The move will provide continued, uninterrupted domestic moving service for Walkboard’s existing customers as the  the parent company closes its move management subsidiary, Walkboard Express. Ensuring a Seamless Transition Arpin added two Walkboard Move Coordinators to the Arpin staff to ensure a seamless transition. “Walkboard has grown substantially over the past five years,” said Greg Maczka, CEO of Walkboard. “With their experience and resources, Arpin was the ideal company to ensure Walkboard’s customers and relocating employees have the best relocation experience possible. The leadership and staff have been wonderful to work with, and their forward-thinking culture has been a perfect fit,” Arpin will continue to work closely with Walkboard and its clients to facilitate a smooth transition. Focusing on efficiency, compliance, and personalized support, Arpin is dedicated to making this change seamless for all stakeholders, according to a company press release.  

WattEV adds Tesla Semis to its zero-emission fleet at Port of Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. — WattEV is partnering with Tesla to take delivery of 40 Semi heavy-duty electric trucks in 2026. “We’re glad to see Tesla Semis deployed at Port of Long Beach,” said Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach. “This is another step forward towards increased adoption and our commitment to elimination of heavy-duty freight emissions at the port.” Agreement Specifics As part of the agreement, WattEV has taken delivery of two Semis to expand its freight-hauling service range in 2025. This represents the first use of Tesla Semis at the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, the nation’s largest port complex. “Tesla Semi is the only truck in the market that can deliver 500 miles on a single charge, with superb energy efficiency and fast charging,” said Salim Youssefzadeh, CEO of WattEV. High Mileage Duty Cycle WattEV is focused on a high-mileage duty cycle, achieving as much as 550 miles a day on certain routes in California, according to a company press release. The company plans to include Tesla Gen-IV chargers at its depots while growing its fleet with Semis in 2026 and beyond. “We’ve been future-proofing all our charging depots to allow for the transition from CCS charging to megawatt charging with MCS,” Youssefzadeh said. “Our collaboration with Tesla is another major milestone as we expand our network to electrify freight on more routes throughout California and beyond.”

VSE Corporation agrees to sell its fleet business segment to One Equity Partners

MIRAMAR, Fla. —  VSE Corporation is entering into a definitive agreement to sell its Fleet business segment, Wheeler Fleet Solutions (WFS), to One Equity Partners (OEP) for up to $230 million in total consideration. “The sale of our Fleet business is the final step in our strategic portfolio transformation, further simplifying and focusing our company, and strengthening our global leadership position as an aviation aftermarket parts and services provider,” said John Cuomo, president and CEO of VSE. “We entered 2025, laser-focused on our customers, supplier partners, growth, business integration and execution. We are deeply committed to delivering unparalleled value for our customers, suppliers, shareholders and employees as a higher-growth, higher-margin, pure-play company dedicated to supporting the global commercial, business and general aviation aftermarkets. This divestiture reaffirms our commitment to simplify our business and go-to-market strategy and solidifies our position as a leading provider of Aviation aftermarket distribution and repair services.” TRANSACTION OVERVIEW WFS is a part distributor and engineering solutions provider servicing the medium and heavy-duty fleet market. “I am deeply appreciative and proud of our Wheeler Fleet Solutions team,” Cuomo said. “Five years ago, we embarked on an ambitious customer diversification and transformation strategy focused on growing commercial and e-commerce business, while continuing to serve our long-standing customer, the United States Postal Service. During this time, we successfully diversified and grew the customer base and expanded product offerings, all while delivering industry leading service. The OEP team will provide a great home and support for this outstanding team and the next phase of this story.” VSE has entered into a definitive agreement to sell WFS to OEP for a total consideration of up to $230 million, comprising a $140 million cash payment at closing, a $25 million seller note and up to $65 million in additional contingent earnout consideration. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Jones Day served as legal counsel and Jefferies, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to VSE with respect to the sale. Looking Ahead “OEP is excited to partner with the Wheeler Fleet Solutions team as we enter this exciting new chapter together,” said Ori Birnboim, partner at OEP.  “North America’s truck fleet industry continues to experience steady demand for parts and services, driven by technological advancements and evolving customer needs. With a 65-year legacy of delivering industry-leading quality and service, Wheeler Fleet Solutions is well positioned to accelerate its growth and success as an independent company. According to Steve Lunau, partner at OEP, the company has a proven history of transforming industrial distribution businesses through strategic organic and inorganic investments that enhance operational performance, expand product capabilities, and extend geographic reach,. “We are committed to building on Wheeler Fleet Solution’s strong employee and customer centric culture, while driving continued development and growth,” Lunau said.

Ryder makes Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies list for 2025

MIAMI, Fla. — Ryder System Inc. is being recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies for 2025. “There’s a reason we consistently earn top marks on Fortune’s corporate reputation report card for attributes like workforce development, innovation, and product excellence,” said Robert Sanchez, chairman, CEO, Ryder. “For 13 years, this recognition is a testament to Ryder’s unwavering commitment to our employees, the value of investing in cutting-edge solutions, and the trust our customers place in us to keep their supply chains moving.” 10+ Years of Recognition This is the 13th consecutive year Ryder has been recognized, further solidifying its reputation for excellence in the trucking, transportation and logistics category, according to a company press release. Representing more than 50 industries globally, this year’s list identifies the top-rated companies most respected by their peers. The annual list is based on a corporate reputation survey asking executives, directors, and analysts to assess companies against nine criteria, from investment value and people management to social responsibility and the ability to attract talent. To be included on the list, a company must rank in the top half of its industry in the survey. Ryder has been recognized as a top employer and industry leader, earning accolades from Newsweek magazine as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity in 2025 and 2024, America’s Greatest Workplaces in 2024, and America’s Most Trustworthy Companies in 2023.

Don’t do it: FMCSA Task Force says lease purchases should be banned

It sounds so great. You can own your own truck. You don’t need a good credit rating or even a credit card. All you need to do is run enough miles to cover the cost of the monthly (or weekly) payment and take good care of the truck. Comply with the terms of the lease, and the truck will be yours. After that, who knows? Carriers with fleets in the thousands started with a hard-working entrepreneur and a single truck. Don’t do it. That’s the advice from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA’s) Truck Leasing Task Force (TLTF or Task Force). Mandated by the Infrastructure and Jobs Act signed into law in November, 2021, the TLTF reviewed thousands of documents, court documents and hard-luck stories from drivers who participated in lease-purchase agreements with carriers. The TLTF officially ended on January 17, 2025. Their recommendation was as harsh as it was simple: lease-purchase agreements should be banned. If not banned, the recommendation was strict government oversight. What does “lease” mean? Before proceeding, it will be helpful to understand the trucking industry’s confusing use of the word “lease.” The Department of Transportation requires that a motor carrier be granted authority to operate in interstate commerce. To obtain authority, proof must be provided that the carrier can meet financial obligations and other standards. Truck owners who don’t have this authority can enter agreements to become Independent Contractors (ICs), running under a carrier’s authority. This arrangement is called a “lease” because the owner is granting the carrier permission to add the truck to their fleet. The contract that specifies the responsibilities of both parties is a “lease agreement.” Rather than paying a rental fee for the truck, the carrier agrees to pay the Contractor a percentage of the income the truck brings in or a flat per-mile fee. Other obligations, such as the I/C providing a driver for the truck, are included in the lease agreement. Rather than buying a truck, some drivers rent, or lease equipment from third-party suppliers. For this article, that arrangement is treated the same as truck ownership. A “lease-purchase” is another matter. Carriers offer drivers who want to become independent contractors but don’t have the money or credit to purchase a truck an opportunity to lease (rent) one from the carrier. The driver agrees to pay a monthly (or weekly) amount, to be deducted from settlements, until a certain amount has been paid. There’s often a final payment, after which ownership of the truck is transferred to the IC. Until that final payment is made and ownership transfers, however, the would-be owner is simply renting the truck from the carrier. So, in a bewildering twist, the driver leases a truck from the carrier and then enters into a lease agreement to become an IC for that carrier. two agreements are needed, a lease-purchase agreement to define truck ownership and then a lease agreement that determines the working relationship between the truck “owner” and the carrier. What is the harm in a lease-purchase agreement? While many drivers have had long, successful careers as ICs, the track record of those who entered Lease-Purchase Agreements is not a good one. The Task Force collected data that suggests that less than one in every hundred drivers who participate in a Lease-Purchase end up owning the truck. The TLTF conclusion was, “The Task Force agrees unanimously that the costs and harms of lease-purchase programs are so great that these programs should not be permitted.” They added, “Lease-purchase programs are regularly established to enrich motor carriers at the expense of drivers.” Carriers often use lease-purchase as a method of getting a larger return for used equipment than they could realize by trading it in. They can set their own price, rather than accepting a dealer’s offer. Since the agreement is a rental until the contract is completed, the driver builds no equity and can’t sell the truck to get out from under debt. It belongs to the carrier and can be leased to driver after driver, and the carrier determines how many miles or loads the driver gets. The demands of the carrier Maintenance costs on a truck increase as they age, especially after warranties run out. Lease-purchases transfer the responsibility for maintenance to the driver at a point when maintenance costs are expected to rise. Further, since the carrier still retains ownership, they often dictate where repairs must be made or place other requirements, sometimes even performing maintenance in carrier facilities and charging the cost to the driver. Carriers have other demands, too. Some mandate where the driver buys fuel or obtains other services. Drivers can’t negotiate fuel surcharge agreements, accessorial pay such as detention and layover. Extra costs such as trailer washouts, loading or unloading fees and extra stops may be the driver’s responsibility. The driver may be required to purchase insurance through the carrier at greater cost. Carriers may require escrow accounts to cover maintenance, cargo claims, insurance deductibles or other costs. These thousands of dollars are often difficult for the driver to get back. Many drivers don’t fully understand the costs of operating as an I/C. The carrier no longer pays health or retirement benefits. The I/C purchases their own Worker’s Compensation or Occupational Accident insurance and tax liability changes. IC’s are required to pay the 15.3% self-employment tax, on top of federal and state income taxes. For employees, the carrier pays half the Social Security and Medicare taxes owed, but ICs must foot the entire bill themselves. The Task Force highlighted another problem with lease-purchases. In cases where the carrier doesn’t keep their part of the bargain, the driver must use an arbitration process instead of seeking legal recourse. The terms of arbitration often mean appearing for hearings in locations far from the driver’s home, with travel and lodging costs the responsibility of the driver. Another issue is that the arbitration proceedings are private. There is no public record, as there would be in a lawsuit. Anyone considering a lease-purchase offer from any carrier would do well to read the 51-page final report from the Task Force. It’s available at www.fmcsa.dot.gov Then, read the lease purchase agreement carefully, and decide wisely.

Truckstop, FTR: Van spot rates decrease in the latest week

Total broker-posted spot market rates in the Truckstop system ticked up marginally during the week ending Feb. 14, but rates for dry van and refrigerated equipment continued to decline mostly in line with seasonal expectations. According to Truckstop and FTR, dry van spot rates were at their lowest level since late September, and refrigerated spot rates fell to their lowest level since April. Flatbed spot rates continued their general firming in 2025 and were at their highest level since late October. Total Spot Load Availability  Total load activity increased 1.3% due to gains in flatbed as dry van and refrigerated volume continued to decline during a seasonally weak period. Volume was 7% above the same 2024 week but about 31% below the five-year average for the week. Total truck postings rose 6.9%, and the Market Demand Index – the ratio of load postings to truck postings in the system – declined. Total Spot Rates The total market broker-posted spot rate inched up by a half cent after falling 2 cents during the previous week. Rates were down 1% from the same 2024 week and were 8% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were up nearly 1% y/y. During the current week (week 7), dry van and refrigerated spot rates generally fall while flatbed spot rates always rise. Dry Van Spot Rates Dry van spot rates decreased 5 cents after declining by nearly that amount in the prior week. Rates were 3% below the same 2024 week and more than 13% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were down more than 1% y/y. Dry van loads decreased 1.7%. Volume was more than 9% below the same 2024 week and about 44% below the five-year average. Refrigerated Spot Rates Refrigerated spot rates fell 7.4 cents after dropping about 13 cents during the previous week. Rates were nearly 5% below the same 2024 week and about 14% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were down about 4% y/y. Refrigerated loads fell 9.8%. Volume was 12% below the same 2024 week and almost 47% below the five-year average. Flat Bed Spot Rates Flatbed spot rates increased nearly 2 cents after declining by nearly as much in the previous week. Rates were nearly 1% below the same 2024 week and close to 7% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were up about 1% y/y. Flatbed loads increased 4.4%. Volume was almost 21% above the same 2024 week but more than 23% below the five-year average.

Troubled electric vehicle maker Nikola files for bankruptcy protection

Troubled electric vehicle maker Nikola has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company, once a rising star on Wall Street, became enmeshed in scandal and its founder was convicted in 2022 for misleading investors about the company’s capabilities. The Arizona company filed for protection in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware and said Wednesday that it has also filed a motion seeking approval to pursue an auction and sale of the business. Nikola has about $47 million in cash on hand. Nikola Corp. plans to to continue limited service and support operations for vehicles on the road, including fueling operations through the end of March, subject to court approval. The company said that it will need to raise more funding support those types of activities after that time. “Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic factors that have impacted our ability to operate,” CEO Steve Girsky said in a statement. The executive said the company has made efforts in recent months to raise funds and reduce liabilities and preserve cash, but that it hasn’t been enough. “The Board has determined that Chapter 11 represents the best possible path forward under the circumstances for the Company and its stakeholders,” he explained. Shares tumbled more than 47% before the market opened Wednesday.

ATA Truck Tonnage Index unchanged in January

WASHINGTON — Trucking activity in the United States was unchanged in January, despite a myriad factors that depressed freight volumes around the country, according to the American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index. “After declines in November and December totaling 1.7%, tonnage was unchanged in January,” said Bob Costello, ATA chief economist. “This outcome is impressive considering the massive winter storm that brought cold temperatures and significant snowfalls to large parts of the country, including those that rarely see such storms. Furthermore, the terrible wildfires in California likely also caused freight disruptions. Softness in manufacturing and retail sales continue to be a drag on truck freight volumes as well, so the fact tonnage was flat is a positive sign.” Truck Tonnage Index Unchanged from December In January, the ATA advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index equaled 111.9. The same as December. The index, which is based on 2015 as 100, was up 0.3% from the same month last year. It’s the first year-over-year increase since August. The not seasonally adjusted index, which calculates raw changes in tonnage hauled, equaled 110 in January, 1.1% above December’s reading of 108.9. ATA recently revised the seasonally adjusted index back five years as part of its annual revision. Economic Barometer Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.7% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.27 billion tons of freight in 2024. Motor carriers collected $906 billion, or 76.9% of total revenue earned by all transport modes. Both indices are dominated by contract freight, as opposed to traditional spot market freight. The tonnage index is calculated on surveys from its membership and has been doing so since the 1970s. This is a preliminary figure. It’s subject to change in the final report issued around the 5th day of each month. The report includes month-to-month and year-over-year results, relevant economic comparisons, and key financial indicators.

FMCSA reopens comment period on broker transparency

WASHINGTON —  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is reopening the comment period on broker transparency proposed rulemaking. According to the Federal Register, the comment period is being reopened at the request of the Small Business in Transportation Coalition (SBTC). The new comment period will last through March 20. Background On Nov. 20, 2024, NPRM (89 FR 91648) requested public comment on FMCSA’s proposed amendments to its property broker rules in response to petitions for rulemaking from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and SBTC. Under current regulations, the parties to a brokered freight transaction have a right to review the broker’s record of the transaction, which stakeholders often refer to as ‘‘broker transparency.’’ Contracts between brokers and motor carriers frequently contain waivers of this right. OOIDA requested that FMCSA promulgate a requirement that property brokers provide an electronic copy of each transaction record automatically within 48 hours after the contractual service has been completed, and explicitly prohibit brokers from including any provision in their contracts that requires a motor carrier to waive its rights to access the transaction records. SBTC requested that FMCSA prohibit brokers of property from coercing or requiring parties to brokered transactions to waive their right to review the record of the transaction as a condition for doing business and prohibit the use of clause(s) exempting the broker from having to comply with this transparency requirement. Speaking Out In December 2024, OOIDA president Todd Spencer urged all truck drivers to comment on the issue in a strongly worded statement. “To the shady freight brokers, you’ve skirted federal regulations to take advantage of the hardworking men and women behind the wheel for too long and it’s far past time this era of screwing over truckers comes to an end,” Spencer said. “To the American trucker, now is your chance to hold bad brokers accountable. Jump into the arena and demand action from FMCSA. No more sitting on the sidelines complaining. If you speak up, we’ll win this fight.” Stacked Deck Earlier this month, Spencer stated that the deck is stacked against small business truckers. “The deck is stacked against carriers in numerous ways, yet truckers persevere and deliver for the American people. It’s time to level the playing field,” Spencer said. “It’s time to restore fairness in the freight market. It’s time to give small-business truckers a leg up. It’s time for broker transparency.” Demand for Broker Transparency  “We agree with (FMCSA’s) assertion that, ‘broker transparency is intended to enable efficient outcomes in the transportation industry by providing material information necessary for the transacting parties to make informed business decisions,’” OOIDA said. “Over the last few years, motor carriers have been increasingly victimized by freight fraud, unpaid claims, dubious charges, unpaid loads, double brokered loads, and load phishing schemes. The absence of legitimate broker transparency limits carriers’ ability to combat these problems.” Request for Comments To submit a comment, please include the docket number for the NPRM (FMCSA–2023–0257). Indicate the specific section of the document to which your comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online or by fax, mail, or hand delivery. Please use only one of these means. FMCSA recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so FMCSA can contact you if there are questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov/document/FMCSA-2023-0257-0001

Drivewyze integrating with ISAAC Instruments

PLANO, Texas – ISAAC Instruments and Drivewyze are now working together. Drivewyze announced a new integration with ISAAC Instruments that it says enables ISAAC’s fleet clients’ access to Drivewyze’s proactive in-cab safety notifications service, Safety+, in addition to its PreClear weigh station bypass solution. Drivewyze Safety+ enables drivers to receive safety alerts on upcoming hazards along their route that pose a threat to themselves and the motoring public. Through the subscription-based service, drivers can receive audible and visual safety notifications through their ISAAC ELD. Drivewyze Safety+ is an extension of Drivewyze Free, and offers additional safety alerts, such as upcoming severe weather, high violation areas for speeding, high-risk areas for cargo theft, and more. In addition, Safety+ adds back-office tools (geo-fencing) for fleets to create their own customized driver alerts, plus offers safety analytics to monitor driver behavior and improve driver coaching through the Drivewyze Hub. Drivewyze Safety+ requires no additional in-cab hardware and is delivered through the ISAAC ELD. ISAAC offers in-cab technology that goes far beyond typical electronic logging devices (ELDs). ISAAC is a true all-in-one solution, handling the software, the tablet, the dock, the camera and integration needs. “The safety of our fleet clients and the motoring public is at the forefront of everything we do at ISAAC,” said Jacques DeLarochelliere, CEO and co-founder of ISAAC Instruments. “We know that by working with Drivewyze to deliver these real-time alerts, we can help truck drivers avoid potential hazards, bad weather or other dangers that could threaten their safety and create unplanned downtime.” “We’re pleased to have worked with the ISAAC team to deliver an integrated offering of our Safety+ service so that their customers have seamless access to our suite of in-cab safety alerts,” said Frances Kilgour, VP of Business Development and Channel Management for Drivewyze. “Safety+ and Drivewyze Free are tools that are proven to help reinforce safe driving practices to ensure our roads are safer all across North America.” In addition to Safety+, ISAAC customers can access Drivewyze Free, which provides “always on” essential messaging, including heads-up warnings for High-Rollover risk areas, Low Bridges, Mountain alerts (steep grade ahead; chain-up/brake check stations; and runaway ramps), and Rest Area information (truck parking availability). The service also provides real-time traffic slowdowns and other safety alerts generated in partnership with select state transportation and enforcement agencies, NOAA, and through the Drivewyze Smart Roadways highway safety program for connected trucks.

ILA Wage Scale Committee approves new USMX-ILA Master Contract agreement

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. —  The full International Longshoremen’s Association Wage Scale Committee today gave unanimous approval to the new USMX-ILA Master Contract. The approval is paving the way for the ratification vote by ILA rank-and-file members that has been scheduled for February 25. “I believe our work here today moves us to the ratification vote on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, when ILA rank-and-file members will vote on what I believe is the greatest ILA contract, and the greatest contract negotiated by a labor organization,” said Harold J. Daggett, ILA president and the union’s chief negotiator. “Our collective strength helped produce the richest contact in our history.” Delegates From Across the U.S. Involved in Voting More than 200 ILA Wage Scale Committee delegates representing ILA locals from Maine to Texas were presented with details of the tentative USMX-ILA Master Contract by Harold and international executive vice president Dennis A. Daggett. The Wage Scale Committee delegates also heard from Paul DeMaria, COO and lead negotiator for United States Maritime Alliance, Ltd. (USMX). In addressing ILA Wage Scale Committee delegates, Dennis A. Daggett praised the hard work it took by many to produce the landmark agreement between USMX and the ILA and said: “Most importantly, I want to thank the ILA rank-and-file membership,” Dennis said. Terms of the Contract ILA Wage Scale Committee delegates were shown a video explaining general details of the tentative USMX-ILA Master Contract, which will be made available to all ILA locals to view prior to the February 25th ratification vote. Following the video screening, Dennis presented a detailed description of the tentative agreement that is in the form of a Memorandum of Settlement between USMX and the ILA and supplements and amends the current Master Contract. “This was the hardest and most complicated contract to bargain possibly in the history of the ILA,” Harold said after the approval of the tentative agreement. “I am proud to have previously delivered two historic contracts for (members) of the ILA, but with the changes we’ve seen across our industry we knew what this contract meant for securing our future. As we meet with the full wage scale committee, I want to make clear that this not only means more money in the pockets of our ILA members, but also a strong future for them and our entire industry.” The new agreement and all of its benefits are retroactive to October 1, 2024, and, if ratified by ILA members, will be in effect until September 30, 2030. Strength of the ILA “After the first strike in 50 years, we showed the entire world the strength of the ILA, and won a hard-fought economic agreement,” Harold said. “But even after that historic moment, I thought that it was almost certain that we would have to go out on strike again in January to get what we deserved. We’ve been able to avoid a strike for so many years because the ILA and USMX have had a strong relationship, which is the single biggest factor when it comes to reaching a deal. It isn’t good enough to just come to an agreement, we need a partner with the leadership and skills and one we trusted so that we knew we could work together and see it through.” Meeting with President Trump “It was President Donald Trump’s courageous actions in December, after meeting with Dennis Daggett and me at Mar-A-Lago, coupled with the relationship and trust we had with Paul De Maria, that made this deal possible,” Harold said. “Thank goodness USMX made Paul DeMaria the lead negotiator for management’s side when they did. Paul was uniquely qualified to move negotiations in the right direction and his appointment to this role was instrumental in avoiding a second strike. “When we were at Mar-A-Lago, it was Paul that I called and had speak directly to President Trump because I knew that he was the only person who could sit across from us at the table and get a deal done.” Tough Negotiator Harold noted that it was DeMaria’s leadership that prevented another strike. “We all knew that Paul was a tough negotiator, but he showed a lot of skill in how he worked with me, Dennis and our bargaining committee to see this through,” Harold said. “At our wage scale meetings today, I wanted to make sure that our members heard from Paul firsthand, possibly the only person who understands our industry, and knows and respects our ILA longshore workers, so that we can start to rebuild our relationship with the USMX and the shipping community. “We all have a bad taste in our mouths with how some of this played out, but we need to ratify this historic contract and then implement it. This means working with someone who will do this the right way to make sure that we don’t end up negotiating in this way again.” ILA rank-and-file members will receive details of the agreement approved by the ILA Wage Scale Committee at local meetings in the next two weeks and then participate in the ratification vote on Feb. 25. The specific details of the agreement will not be made public.

FTR Trucking Conditions Index eased slightly in December

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. —  FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index for December declined to 2.67 from November’s 3.02 reading. “Preliminary data suggests that market conditions were tough for carriers in January, but we still forecast consistently favorable market conditions for carriers to begin soon,” said Avery Vise, FTR’s vice president of trucking. Minimal Decrease While the decrease was minimal, the underlying factors changed substantially. Freight rates in December were considerably more unfavorable for carriers than they were in November, but the contributions from freight volume and capacity utilization were much improved.  While FTR’s forecast for trucking conditions envisions near-term weakness due to fuel prices and freight rates, FTR expects the TCI to be consistently positive by Q2. “Freight rates have been sluggish, however, so the risk of a slower recovery than currently forecast is significant,” Vise said. “Volatility in economic data due to tariff expectations and response from businesses and consumers injects further uncertainty into the outlook. Despite these concerns, we are confident in modestly stronger conditions for trucking companies at least by the second half of the year.”