Business Archives

Premier Transportation appoints Tim Pilato to co-CEO

John Worthen - April 8, 2024

ATLANTA — Transportation and Logistics company Premier Transportation has announced the promotion of Tim Pilato, former president, to the role of co-CEO. He will serve alongside Premier’s Chairman and CEO, Mike Medici. “Tim is a world-class leader who has been instrumental in guiding Premier’s success over the past 23 years. I look forward to our shared responsibilities as Premier enters its next phase of growth,” Medici said. “Our future is bright, and I have extreme confidence in Tim as a leader who has demonstrated expertise in every area of our business.” According to Medici, Pilato has been an essential leadership figure, helping shape the company’s culture and values while overseeing its overall performance and continued success. “I am enthusiastic about this new leadership role and the potential growth opportunities we can achieve,” Pilato said. “Over the years, Premier Transportation has hit remarkable milestones under the leadership of Mike Medici. I look forward to the collaborative accomplishments that lie ahead for our team.”

FMCSA plans to revise requirements for the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program

Kris Rutherford - April 5, 2024

WASHINGTON — On April 4, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued an emergency request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval of a revision to its previously approved request for comments on its Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program. Approval of the revision is requested by April 15, 2024. The revised language makes two changes to the original program requirements: The FMCSA may not require the use of inward facing cameras as a condition of the apprenticeship program. A motor carrier is not required to register an apprenticeship program with the Department of Labor before instituting the pilot program. Questions related to this information will be removed from applications and monthly reporting forms; however, participating motor carriers will still have the option of reporting such information. In the request, the FMCSA notes that drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) must be 21 years of age or older to operate a CMV in interstate commerce. It also points out that drivers under 21 can operate in intrastate commerce based on individual state laws and regulations. With the ongoing driver shortage, revisions to these requirements have been under consideration, and the FMCSA has been researching remedies. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), enacted in November 2021, requires the development of an Apprenticeship Driver Pilot Program as a potential way to bring safe, qualified younger drivers into interstate commerce. The program proposes that 18-to 20-year-old apprentices complete two probationary periods. During these periods, the apprentices can operate in interstate commerce, but only under the supervision of an experienced driver, who must be in the passenger seat whenever the apprentice driver is behind the wheel. To be considered an “experienced” driver, a person must be at least 26 years old, hold a valid commercial driver’s license and have been employed for the previous two years and have a minimum of five years of interstate CMV driving experience. The first probationary period includes a minimum of 120 hours of on-duty time, 80 of which must be spent driving a CMV. To successfully complete the probationary period, the apprentice must demonstrate competency in the following areas: Interstate, city traffic, rural two-lane and evening driving. Safety awareness. Speed and space management. Lane control. Mirror scanning. Right and left turns. Logging and complying with regulations related to hours of service. The second probationary period comprises 280 hours, 160 of which must be spent driving a CMV. More advanced aspects of operating a CMV must be demonstrated during this period including: Backing and maneuvering in close quarters. Pre-trip inspections. Fueling procedures. Weighing loads, weight distribution and sliding tandems. Coupling and uncoupling. Trip planning, routes, map reading, navigation and permits. After successfully completing the second probationary period, the under-21 apprentice would be allowed to operate a CMV in interstate commerce unaccompanied by an experienced driver. The pilot program requires participating carriers to submit data to the agency about any incidents involving an apprentice driver, as well as reports about the apprentice drivers’ overall safety performance. Data collected will be used to determine the effectiveness of technologies and training provided through the program in improving safety; to compare the safety records of apprentice drivers to other CMV drivers; the number of apprentices dropping out of the program; a comparison of safety records of apprentices before, during, and after each probationary period; and a comparison of apprentices’ on-duty time, drive time and time spent away from their home terminals. The FMCSA expects a total of 14,830 responses to its original request for comments, 13,230 of those comments from CMV drivers. The request for approval of the revisions has been labeled as an emergency because FMCSA is likely to miss a mandated deadline if the required information is not received.

Trucker Path releases new service for brokerages

Erica N. Guy - April 5, 2024

PHOENIX — Trucker Path has launched a new tool aimed at improving smaller freight brokerages. According to a news release, this new service will enable small-to-mid-size freight brokers to better dispatch, track and manage loads, thus competing better against larger brokerages. “Built for small-to-mid-size brokers, Trucker Path for Brokerages greatly simplifies the process of dispatching, tracking and managing loads awarded to carriers by freight brokers,” said Chris Oliver, Trucker Path’s CMO. “By enabling significantly enhanced visibility into load location and status, it improves productivity and shipper satisfaction and streamlines processes to simplify operations. Trucker Path for Brokerages will help smaller brokers differentiate themselves and compete for carriers and customers like their larger competitors.” The Trucker Path app provides a customized version of a carrier’s network, giving brokers the ability to dispatch load details directly to drivers and track the progress of loads via a dashboard. Once deliveries are completed, the driver captures and uploads paperwork using the app’s document scanner for immediate processing. “The value of Trucker Path for Brokerages extends beyond replacing cumbersome, manual, time-consuming and error-prone freight management and paperwork processes for freight brokers and their customers,” Oliver said. “For small to mid-size brokers, it also increases efficiencies and carrier satisfaction.” Carriers also benefit from all the productivity tools the Trucker Path app offers the nearly one million North American truckers who already rely on the app regularly for truck-safe navigation, destination entry/exit guidance, real-time parking availability, fuel discounts and more, Oliver added. “It helps make life on the road safer, easier and more productive for drivers while also helping improve recruiting and retention for brokers,” he concluded. Trucker Path for Brokerages is available to small to mid-size freight brokers at very affordable pricing. More details can be found at www.truckerpath.com/for-brokerages. Brokers attending the TIA 2024 Capital Ideas Conference, April 10 – 13, 2024, can visit Trucker Path booth No. 116 for more information.

Truckload Carriers Association retains new law firm

Erica N. Guy - April 5, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) President Jim Ward has announced that the association has hired the law firm Scopelitis Garvin Light Hanson & Feary (Scopelitis) as its general counsel. This announcement was made at TCA’s annual convention, which was held on Tuesday, March 25, in Nashville. As the law firm representing the association, Scopelitis will handle all legal matters, ranging from advising on TCA’s daily operations to reviewing and approving contracts and overseeing the association’s benchmarking program, according to a news release. Also, Scopelitis’ partners, Gregory Feary and Prasad Sharam, will be taking the lead in working with TCA. “Hiring a reputable law firm like Scopelitis Garvin Light Hanson and Feary indicates that TCA is prioritizing legal counsel in all aspects of its operations, from overseeing programs to handling contracts. This move indicates that TCA is taking the proper steps to ensure legal compliance and effective management of its affairs,” Ward said. The Firm’s more than 5,000 transportation-related clients span the country and around the globe. They include most of the major Fortune 500 transportation companies and many smaller, family-owned businesses. More information about Scopelitis can be found at www.scopelitis.com.

It’s time to get moving! Take the Keep Pushin’ 22 Fitness Challenge

Bob Perry - April 5, 2024

Drivers, start your engines! Not the one in your truck — it’s time to rev up your body’s “engine.” So, get moving and take the Keep Pushin’ 22 Fitness Challenge. Each day in the life of a professional driver is challenging, with time restraints, poor food choices and lack of activity. Fit Drivers and The Trucker want to help drivers get fit— and improve their health at the same time. Registration for the 22-day challenge is now open. Individual challenges start at the sign-up date and run 22 consecutive days. As a bonus, the first 100 drivers to sign up will receive a driver health and fitness bag packed with Quest protein bars and drinks (plus money-saving coupons for more Quest products), an “I took the pledge” wristband, a multivitamin packet from Nutra Meltz, body wash from Henkel, and more gifts from our sponsors. In addition, the first 100 registrants will free access to motivational music from Spiritune for 30 days. What do I have to do? Just pick one of the four events below — or all four, or any combination — to perform once daily for 22 consecutive days. These fitness challenges encourage drivers to take action, learn creative ways to stay fit on the road and be rewarded for their efforts. Do 22 pushups. Hold a plank position for 22 seconds. Hold a wall squat position for 22 seconds. Participate in at least one FREE online wellness/fitness class by Operation Broga (each registered participant will receive free access to the online training during their 22-day challenge period). The 22-day challenge begins the day of registration and continues for 22 consecutive days. NOTE: The last day to enter is April 20. But wait — there’s more! Post photos or videos of yourself performing one of the Challenge tasks on your personal Facebook or Instagram page AND include the hashtag #keeppushin22, and you could win a Garmin Instinct 2 dēzl Edition trucking smartwatch! Each hashtagged post counts as one entry for the grand prize drawing, so post as often as you like. NOTE: The last date to post is May 11, 2024. How do I get started? Click here to sign up on The Trucker’s website. You’ll receive a confirmation email with everything you need to get started. Thanks to our sponsors I’d also like to extend a word of thanks to some of our sponsors, including Garmin, Enrollment First, Drivewyze, Great Dane, iWTNS Inc., ArcPoint Labs, Team Run Smart, PrePass, Nutra Meltz, Michelin, Henkel, Alcoa Wheels, Transfix, Stevens Transport, Simply Good Foods, Women In Trucking, Trucksuite, Detroit Products/DTNA and, of course, The Trucker. Have you ever wondered why companies sponsor events like the Keep Pushin’ 22 Fitness Challenge? Below are thoughts from a few of our sponsors: “At Alcoa Wheels, employee health and safety are at the forefront of everything we do. That’s why we’re excited to partner with Fit Drivers in support of this driver fitness competition. We believe that every wheel we make drives positive change, and we want our customers to experience the journey to wellness firsthand, ensuring they not only reach their destinations safely but also thrive along the way.” — Jared Markwald, director of environment, health and safety for Alcoa Wheels- Howmet Wheels System * * * “At Daimler Truck North America, one of our foremost priorities is creating products that prioritize the well-being of drivers. We firmly believe that drivers are at the heart of our operations, and their health is paramount to the efficiency and effectiveness of the US supply chain. Therefore, we are committed to investing in initiatives geared towards enhancing driver health and safety.” — Len Copeland, product marketing manager for Detroit Products, Daimler Truck North America * * * “We endorse the Fitness Challenge because we recognize that when drivers prioritize their physical and mental well-being, they not only improve their own lives but also play a crucial role in fostering safer roads and building a stronger, more robust trucking industry overall.” — Sarah Burt, marketing director-creative content at Drivewyze * * * “IWTNS recognizes the importance of drivers living a fit and healthy lifestyle. We support the Fit Drivers competition that promotes driver fitness. Good luck to all participants!” — Bradley Lewis, founder and CEO of iWTNS Inc. * * * “The last year has been a challenging one for truck drivers, having to deal with a soft market and other issues like fraud, access to parking and a lack of health and wellness options on the road. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week may be a week-long affair in the industry but for us, it’s a year-round commitment. Our team is honored to know, partner with and spotlight the thousands of hardworking carriers in our network.” — Jonathan Salama, CEO and co-founder of Transfix

Netradyne launches new safety tools for truck drivers

Erica N. Guy - April 5, 2024

SAN DIEGO — Fleet safety firm Netradyne has expanded the roll out of its new, patented driver safety program. DriverStars, Driver Streaks and Driver Dispute “seamlessly enhance habitual safe driving skills by focusing on positive reinforcement,” the company touts in a news release. “This expansion of Netradyne’s new Driver app technology reinforces truck drivers’ safe driving behaviors.” The Driver•i device is designed to automatically capture videos when the driver achieves a positive measurement and awards a Driver Streak, a subtype of DriverStars within the Netradyne system. It also recognizes the driver’s actions, such as “creating space for a vehicle on a street shoulder or achieving separation by slowing down,” and awards another DriverStar, which “has a positive impact on drivers’ GreenZone Scores.” “Netradyne goes way beyond identifying risks. We’re driver advocates. We empower fleets to celebrate the skill and thoughtfulness their drivers demonstrate daily. We’ve seen proof that positive reinforcement and continued performance training make a big impact on fleet safety results and overall safety culture”, said Adam Kahn, president at Netradyne. “A recent case study of 100 global customers over 90 days showed a direct correlation between DriverStars and improved safety. With a 72% increase in DriverStars, their GreenZone Scores increased by 20%, and they dropped severely risky events by 65% and moderately risky events by 34%. That includes an 81% decrease in speeding and a 22% decrease in distracted driving, which are highly correlated with accidents.” All of the features mentioned are accessible through Netradyne’s Driver·i portal and in the Driver app. Netradyne is also introducing a new Driver Dispute feature that allows drivers to dispute a claim they perceive as inaccurate. “With the turnover rate of long-haul truckers averaging 94%, empowering drivers with this capability can aid with job satisfaction and retention,” the news release notes. Safety managers are notified when a driver has submitted a dispute for a particular alert and can work with their drivers to understand the concern while helping them feel heard. “The biggest thing I’ve noticed is the reduction in phone calls and issues since implementing the Driver•i system,” said Skip Wood, executive vice president at Sharp Transit, “If we continue to prioritize our attention on drivers highlighted by the GreenZone alerts and scores (both high and low performers), we will see a dramatic improvement in overall performance.”

Engineers clearing Key Bridge wreckage expect limited-access channel to port to open in 4 weeks

The Associated Press - April 5, 2024

BALTIMORE — Engineers working to clear the wreckage of the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore said April 4 that they expect to be able to restore navigation in and out of the Port of Baltimore by the end of this month. The bridge collapsed within seconds on March 26 after being struck by the cargo ship Dali, which lost power shortly after leaving Baltimore, bound for Sri Lanka. The ship issued a mayday alert with just enough time for police to stop traffic, but not enough to save a roadwork crew filling potholes on the bridge. Authorities believe six workers plunged to their deaths in the Patapsco River; two bodies have been recovered so far. Two other workers survived. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced a “tentative timeline” April 3, saying in a news release that it expects to open a limited access channel, measuring some 280 feet wide by 35 feet deep, to the port within the next four weeks. The channel would support one-way traffic in and out of the port for barge container service and some vessels that move automobiles and farm equipment to and from the port. The USACE said it is aiming to reopen the permanent, 700-foot-wide by 50-foot-deep federal navigation channel by the end of May, which would restore port access to normal capacity. “A fully opened federal channel remains our primary goal, and we will carry out this work with care and precision, with safety as our chief priority,” Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon, USACE commanding general said in the news release. Spellmon acknowledged the timelines are “ambitious” and may still be impacted by adverse weather or “changes in the complexity of the wreckage.” The announcement came on the eve of a scheduled visit by President Joe Biden, who is to view the collapse site and meet with relatives of the victims Friday, April 5. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden also will receive an operational update from U.S. Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers officials. On April 4, Isabella Casillas Guzman, who heads the U.S. Small Business Administration, visited Baltimore to meet with business owners, along with state and local leaders. Guzman said a federal program offering loans to small businesses hurt by the bridge collapse has received 500 applications so far. Businesses involved in transportation and supply chain logistics will likely suffer most in the short term, she said, but long-term ripple effects will be widespread. “It’s a full range of impact,” she said following a roundtable discussion at an office in Baltimore that was opened in recent days to assist business owners affected by the collapse. Baltimore’s port handles more cars and farm equipment than any other similar facility in the country, and the disaster has created logistical problems up and down the East Coast. The Maryland Senate unanimously approved a bill April 3 authorizing the governor to use the state’s rainy-day fund to help unemployed port employees. That sends the bill to the Maryland House, which could approve the bill this week. The Norwegian shipping firm Wallenius Wilhelmsen, which has a hub in Baltimore, said it estimates its own losses at between $5 million and $10 million from the port closure. One of its ships is among several currently stuck in Baltimore’s harbor. Crews are working to clear the steel wreckage and recover the remaining bodies, something made even more difficult by recent bad weather. They have opened two temporary channels meant primarily for vessels involved in the cleanup. But the water is so murky that salvage divers can’t see more than 1 to 2 feet in front of them, Gov. Wes Moore said at a news conference April 4. Each diver is now paired with an operator that uses three-dimensional drawings and other tools to guide them in a “buddy system,” he said. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said there are seven commercial vessels stuck in the port with their crews on board. The ships will not be able to leave until a temporary channel is opened that is deep enough for them to get out. By Lea Skene, the Associated Press

Averitt named as Truckload Carrier of the Year by IL2000

Erica N. Guy - April 4, 2024

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Averitt was recently announced as the 2023 Truckload Carrier of the Year by the logistics company IL2000. The annual Carrier of the Year award is the way that IL2000 recognizes the carriers “who consistently perform well across a spectrum of indicators, including on-time performance, rate of growth, claims track record, and demonstrable customer service,” according to a news release. Mark French, 3PL director of corporate business development at Averitt, said his company is thankful for the acknowledgement. French also lauded his company’s team for their “outstanding performance and dedication,” adding, “the team’s efforts make it easy to maintain good relationships with our partners.” For more information about Averitt’s Truckload services, visit Averitt.com/Truckload.

Love’s opens 5 new Speedco locations

John Worthen - April 4, 2024

OKLAHOMA CITY — As Love’s Travel Stops recently opened five new Speedco locations. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco also completed upgrades to two existing maintenance shops, adding 23 service bays and 10 service trucks, according to a news release. The new and remodeled locations can be found next to Love’s in: Nogales, Arizona (new) St. Augustine, Florida (new) Waco, Georgia (remodeled) Michigan City, Indiana (new) Canton, Mississippi (remodeled) Picayune, Mississippi (new) Watertown, New York (new) These locations all offer tire, lube, light mechanical services, roadside services and DOT inspections for professional drivers and fleets at affordable prices. In addition, Love’s Truck Care and Speedco are the exclusive warranty repair and campaign recall service provider for Freightliner and International trucks. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco have more than 430 locations across the country with more than 1,300 service bays and 900 roadside service trucks.

TCA Scholarship Fund accepting applications

Erica N. Guy - April 4, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) recently announced that its scholarship fund is now accepting applications. TCA has also decided to begin accepting applicants who are full-time students attending two-year programs at accredited junior colleges, opening the selection criteria for the scholarship fund. TCA’s decision to expand the requirements of the program is expected to open more doors for students looking to pursue a career in supply chain and logistics, according to a news release. For almost five decades, the TCA Scholarship Fund has helped students form connections with the truckload industry. In 2023, the scholarship fund awarded 48 students scholarships worth up to $6,250 per year per full-time, four-year college student or up to $2,000 per full-time, two-year college student, totaling more than $140,000. For the 2024-2025 academic year, TCA projects that $159,000 will be awarded to eligible students for fall 2024 and spring 2025. Much of the program’s funds and support comes from the truckload TCA family themselves. “The longevity of this program, combined with the donor’s support and focus on paying forward to hundreds of participants, emphasizes an additional benefit of TCA membership,” said Joey Hogan, a board member at Covenant Logistics and chairman of the TCA Scholarship Committee. “To the donors, we are extremely grateful, and the addition of the junior colleges to the program recognizes the trades that are also vitally important to our industry.” This program is only available for students affiliated with a TCA member company, including for-hire carrier members and associate members. However, any student in good standing with these criteria: 1. minimum grade point average of 3.0, 2. will be attending an accredited, four-year or two-year college or university as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior and 3. is also either a child, grandchild, or spouse of an employee or is the employee themselves of a TCA member company or is the spouse of an independent contractor or an independent contractor affiliated with a TCA member company, is encouraged to apply for the scholarship. More information on the scholarship or its application is available at www.truckload.org/scholarships/. “TCA is super excited to broaden the scholarship program to now include full-time, two-year college students,” said Zander Gambill, TCA’s vice president of membership and outreach. “This expansion is a no-brainer and will support more students looking to start a transportation-based career.”

TFI International completes Daseke acquisition

John Worthen - April 4, 2024

MONTREAL, Quebec, Canada — Transportation logistics giant TFI International has closed the deal on its acquisition of Daseke, one of the leading flatbed and specialized transportation and logistics companies in North America, for $8.30 in cash per common share. The total enterprise value of the transaction is approximately US $1.1 billion, according to a news release, including the merger consideration for the common stock, redemption of Daseke’s Series B preferred stock, payoff or assumption of Daseke’s Series A preferred stock and outstanding debt, net of cash and estimated transaction fees and expenses. In addition, on March 22, 2024, TFI International closed on a US $500 million term loan in an overcommitted transaction priced at a spread of SOFR plus a range of 140 to 165 basis points, to vary over time depending on the company’s fundeddebt-to-EBITDA ratio, and consisting of three tranches including a one-year facility of US $100 million maturing March 2025, a two-year facility of US $100 million maturing March 2026 and a three-year facility of US $300 million maturing March 2027. Participating banks included National Bank of Canada, Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of America, N.A., The TorontoDominion Bank, Bank of Montreal, PNC Bank, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, Morgan Stanley Bank, N.A. and Goldman Sachs.

Fleet Advantage announces promotions

John Worthen - April 4, 2024

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Fleet Advantage recently promoted several of its staff members to new positions. According to a news release, Wesley Hall has been promoted to fleet director of operations and off lease; Ysis Jackson has been promoted to remarketing operations manager; and Shayna Sweet has been promoted to manager of dealer services and operations administration. With more than 16 years of fleet management experience, Hall has been Fleet Advantage’s fleet services director since October 2021. Transitioning into his new role, Hall will help lead foundational tasks, including sales of off-lease used Class-8 trucks, while continuing to support his customer team, the news release notes. “Over the past two years, Wes has helped define and lead in his role as Director of Fleet Services and as we expand our customer services options, Wes has accepted a larger role to include off-lease program management and process development,” said Brian Antonellis, CTP, senior vice president of fleet operations for Fleet Advantage. “In his new role as director of fleet operations and off lease, Wes will use his expertise in fleet management to support mid- and end-of-life cycle support.” Jackson has been in remarketing sales administration since 2014. According to the news release, she is referenced by her colleagues as “the glue” behind Fleet Advantage’s remarketing team, always keeping everyone together and on task. “Fleet Advantage’s remarketing team has grown its sale volume by over 400% in the last four years and with this growth comes adapting to new processes and procedures to accommodate the increased workload,” said Francis Maloney, remarketing sales manager for Fleet Advantage. “No one has endured more process changes than Ysis and, more importantly, she has managed to keep the teamwork flowing smoothly. Her promotion to remarketing operations manager is well deserved, as she keeps the entire unit on task.” Sweet has been with Fleet Advantage, initially as an operations administrator, since 2014. Now as the Manager of dealer services and operations administration, Sweet will have an increased workload working closely with dealer services, operations and safety and client services administration, according to the news release. “Shayna has increased her responsibility each year since starting at Fleet Advantage and always maintains a positive attitude,” said Matt de Aguiar, chief operating officer for Fleet Advantage. “She has recently helped guide important cross-departmental process improvements and we look forward to her learning more and further developing working relationships with our customers, dealers, and licensing agents.” Jim Wharton, CPA, CLFP, vice president of finance for Fleet Advantage, recognized the three on their promotions. “We are proud to congratulate Wesley, Ysis and Shayna on their well-deserved promotions, as all three have consistently demonstrated their dedication and commitment to client service excellence in helping Fleet Advantage continue to be the largest independent lessor for heavy-duty Class 8 trucks,” he said “We are tremendously pleased with all that they have accomplished, and we look forward to seeing all that they achieve in the near future with these new roles.”

CLX Logistics snapped up by chemical supply chain giant Quantix

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

CHICAGO — Chemical industry supply chain services company Quantix has acquired CLX Logistics, a liquid bulk 3PL. Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, Quantix has an extensive supply chain services offering for the chemical industry. Terms of the deal were not released. According to a news release, the addition of CLX bolsters Quantix’s offerings, “adding a robust technology suite and managed supply chain solutions to support customers around the world across all modes.” Quantix and CLX collectively form a platform with more than $2 billion in logistics spend and have approximately 5,400 owned assets, more than 40 distribution centers and rail terminals and 3,300 partner carrier relationships, the news release notes. The acquisition will grow Quantix’s presence in North American and European markets, making the combined company one of the world’s largest providers in the nearly $100 billion global chemical supply chain logistics market. “This deal is a significant step for Quantix as a leader in the chemical 3PL market and will bring meaningful value to our customers as we integrate a wide-ranging set of offerings, technology and analytics products into our portfolio,” said Chris Ball, president and CEO of Quantix. “We’re proud to have the CLX team as part of the Quantix family of companies, and congratulate founder J. Stephen Hamilton on the exceptional business he has built.” J. Stephen Hamilton, founder and chairman of the board at CLX Logistics, said it would be hard to find a company that better understands the logistics needs of the chemical industry than Quantix. “We look forward to helping them build even further on what, and how, they deliver for customers through our global presence, advanced chemical logistics expertise and commitment to customer success,” Hamilton added.

Tenstreet User Conference launches in Las Vegas

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

LAS VEGAS — Web-based truck driver recruiting platform Tenstreet’s User Conference has kicked off in Las Vegas. The event runs from Wednesday, April 3-5, at the Bellagio Hotel. Conference highlights include: Insights into new trends in the driver market only found at Tenstreet’s User Conference Trainings tailored around all of Tenstreet’s top services and new products Early access to knowledge about new features and tools Best practices and tips on how to get the most out of Tenstreet Forums for sharing opinions and voting on what to develop next Breakout sessions that let attendees focus on the topics that are most relevant to their businesses One-on-one client meetings to connect about their specific needs Opportunities to network with peers Tenstreet questions answered by our trained experts at the Help Desk The meat of the conference begins at 9 a.m. Thursday with the “Opening Ceremony: Your Gold-Medal 2024.” At this event, Tenstreet CEO Tim Crawford will deep-dive into the exclusive data behind the company’s platform to share his future outlook on the industry and driver trends that will help carriers strategize to “win big in 2024.” This event will be followed by “Tools for Winners: What’s New in Tenstreet.” Afternoon session highlights include “Building a Better Driver Funnel: How Driver Pulse Does the Heavy Lifting,” along with “The Lead Relay: Managing Recruiters Successfully.” On Friday, highlights include “Wrestling with Compliance,” “Driver Pulse: Taking a Swing at Gold-Medal Driver Relationships” and “On-Target Marketing.” There will also be a question and answer session with Tenstreet Winners’ Circle, along with a number of breakout sessions. Many in the trucking industry say they look forward to Tenstreet’s big event each year. “The three biggest reasons I continue to come to the conference are number one, the product exposure that we’re getting,” said Tim Norlin, vice president of driver employment at Roehl Transport. “That has been absolutely phenomenal to watch Tenstreet take their products to where we need them as an industry. It’s become more of a value add than it ever was just a product we had to use. The second aspect is to network. We see a lot of old friends, a lot of colleagues at different organizations that we are still close to, and this is our one chance in the year to be able to see them. Third, we get to look at some new vendors that you have in your lobby. That is a huge aspect, that we can not only look at your safety products, but we’re looking at a few other folks that are here on the yard to see how those solutions play off of each other.” Chris Harbin, Heniff Transportation Systems’ director of recruiting, said he comes to the conference to “get out of my bubble.” “That’s why it was a great networking opportunity,” he added. “I appreciate the new products and everything, but the real reason I was there is just to have those conversations. That was a large part of the value and then everything I took back from it was just those random conversations that the conference itself generated, coming out of a session and sitting down for a meal and then talking to the people about the context of that session. ‘How are you going to use this? What do you think about that?’ Just being able to bounce ideas and gather some of those best practices is what I went into it looking for. And that’s certainly what I got, and then some.”

HDA Truck Pride member Southside Trailer Service acquires PBS Brake & Supply

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

ST. LOUIS — Long-time HDA Truck Pride member Southside Trailer Service has acquired PBS Brake & Supply, another HDA Truck Pride outlet. HDA Truck Pride is North America’s largest independent provider of parts and services to the commercial vehicle aftermarket. With more than 105 collective years of industry experience between the two companies, this acquisition expands the position of Southside Trailer Service along the Interstate 90 corridor from Erie, Pennsylvania, to Syracuse, New York, according to a news release. “We are pleased that PBS Brake & Supply will remain an integral part of HDA Truck Pride, under the Southside Trailer banner,” said HDA Truck Pride CEO Tina Hubbard. “The dedication and cooperation exhibited by both Southside Trailer and PBS further emphasizes the strength of the independent aftermarket, focusing their efforts on synergy and shared values of keeping the customer front of mind and the culture of treating employees like family. Taking care of the customer drives success within our community.”

Echo Global names 2023 LTL Carrier of the Year Award winners

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

CHICAGO — Echo Global Logistics has announced the winners of their annual LTL Carrier of the Year Award for 2023. Since 2008, Echo has been recognizing a few carriers based on shipment growth, revenue growth, on time performance, communication, invoice accuracy, claims, customer service, responsiveness, website effectiveness and functionality, IT cooperation/integration and overall quality, according to a news release. Winners are honored in three categories: National, Regional and Platinum. National Carrier of the Year Estes Express Regional Carrier of the Year Duie Pyle Platinum Awards Southeastern Freight Lines Pitt Ohio Sutton Transport Roadrunner Freight “All of the carriers that keep the supply chain industry moving deserve recognition for their outstanding efforts and dedication to quality service,” said Doug Waggoner, chief executive officer at Echo. “The Carrier of the Year awards are Echo’s way of honoring these exemplary organizations by highlighting a few of the best of the best. Congratulations to these hard-working professionals.” Echo’s LTL Carrier of the Year is an organizational award given to carrier companies that best measure up to Echo’s own quality standards and core values as a business. Winners are chosen for outstanding service, commitment, and performance for Echo’s clients and employees. “The carriers which dedicate their expertise to keeping shipments on the road and deliveries on time are an essential segment of our industry,” said Dave Menzel, president and chief operating officer at Echo. “Our LTL Carrier of the Year winners represent transportation excellence, and we thank them for their high caliber service and commitment to the supply chain.”

Truckstop: Total spot rates rise for 4th straight week

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — The total broker-posted spot market rate in the Truckstop system rose by the most since mid-February during the week ended March 29 (week 13). Total rates have increased for four straight weeks — a streak that most recently occurred exactly two years ago — although the total gain during the stretch has been less than 6 cents. The increases for dry van and refrigerated spot rates were the largest since the weather-impacted third week of this year. Flatbed spot rates were the strongest since early July 2023. Total loads Total load activity decreased 5.2% after increases in four straight weeks. Total volume was up 4% from the same 2023 week but about 27% below the five-year average. Truck postings decreased 3.2%, and the total Market Demand Index — the ratio of loads to trucks — eased slightly. The dry van and refrigerated MDIs increased slightly, but the flatbed MDI declined after rising for eight straight weeks. Total rates The total broker-posted rate increased just over 3 cents for the largest gain since week seven. Rates were less than 4% below the same 2023 week and nearly 6% below the five-year average for the week. The total market rate, which was the highest since early July largely on the strength of flatbed rates, has declined only once in the past seven weeks. Dry van rates Dry van spot rates increased 1.6 cents after rising by nearly the same amount in the previous week. Rates, which were up for three straight weeks for the first time since September, were only 1.5% below the same week last year and 12% below the five-year average for the week. Dry van loads declined 2%. Volume was about 5% below the same 2023 week and more than 30% below the five-year average for the week. Refrigerated rates Refrigerated spot rates rose nearly 5 cents and were up for the third time in four weeks. Rates were just over 1% above the same 2023 week but nearly 8% below the five-year average for the week. Food demand related to Easter might have been a factor in the latest week’s rate increase, although volume was down. Refrigerated loads fell 7.5%. Volume was 4% below the same 2023 week and nearly 34% below the five-year average for the week. Flatbed rates Flatbed spot rates rose 4.5 cents – the largest increase since week seven. Rates, which have decreased week-over-week only four times this year, were nearly 5% below both the same week last year and the five-year average for the week. Flatbed loads fell 6.8%. Volume was nearly 13% higher than the same week last year but was about 27% below the five-year average for the week.

JB Hunt driver Jodi Edwards earns WIT’s Driver of the Year honor

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

LOWELL, Ark. — Jodi Edwards, a 25-year company driver for J.B. Hunt Transport Services, has been named Driver of the Year by the Women In Trucking Association (WIT). Throughout her career, Edwards has earned multiple regional driver-of-the-year and safety recognitions, according to a news release. Nearly 13 years after achieving her first million safe miles driven, she surpassed 2 million miles in January. “I am greatly honored and humbled to receive this recognition,” Edwards said. “I want to thank my family for their support and patience, J.B. Hunt for providing me with the opportunity and leadership, and Women In Trucking for all they do to make driving a better career option for women. I do what I do because I love it, and I hope others will find as much joy and passion for being a driver as I have for decades.” Edwards, who began her intermodal driving career with J.B. Hunt in 1998, was one of three drivers to receive the WIT distinction this year, an unprecedented move by the organization. Edwards is the first J.B. Hunt driver to be recognized with the honor and has served on WIT’s Image Team since 2016. As part of the Image Team, Edwards has mentored others entering the industry while helping showcase the profession as a great career opportunity for women. Her efforts with WIT include hosting ride-a-longs with government and organization officials, engaging in WIT events and panel discussions and participating in interviews with trade and national media outlets, including WIT’s weekly radio show on SiriusXM. “We are immensely proud of Jodi and the example she sets for our drivers and others in the industry,” said Nick Hobbs, chief operating officer and president of contract services at J.B. Hunt. “Throughout her career, she has shown unwavering dedication to providing industry-leading service while enabling those around her with training and support. Her leadership speaks volumes to her integrity and professionalism, paving the way for her fellow drivers to follow.” Edwards has been a Smith System certified instructor and driver trainer for more than 10 years, having spent countless hours mentoring the next generation of safe driving professionals. “Jodi’s fair and wise approach sets her apart, making her a great representative for all drivers in the industry,” said Mildred Hernandez, transportation manager at J.B. Hunt and Edwards’ manager for many years. “She consistently demonstrates her exceptional driving ability, reliability and dedication to J.B. Hunt, surpassing all expectations over the 30-plus years I’ve spent in the industry.” Additionally, Edwards has volunteered on multiple occasions to support the company’s contributions to Wreaths Across America, an industry event that remembers fallen veterans during the holiday season. Her efforts have helped the company deliver thousands of wreaths from Maine to national cemeteries throughout the country. Edwards will join more than 50 drivers at J.B. Hunt corporate headquarters in Lowell, Arkansas, in May for the company’s 23rd annual Million Mile Celebration, recognizing company drivers who achieved between 2 million and 5 million safe miles driven within the past year. Since its inception in 1996, more than 4,600 drivers have been recognized for achieving at least one million safe miles. Million Mile drivers are considered the legacy of the company’s safety culture shared by its people.

ACT Research: Class 8 truck order surge paused in March

John Worthen - April 3, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Preliminary March net orders for North American Class 8 tractors came in at 17,300 units, down 10,400 units from February and 18.7% from a year ago, according to ACT Research. “Nascent improvements in the freight market and select OEMs’ efforts to smooth demand, notwithstanding forced conservatism among a portion of the truck buying populace, capped Class 8 order activity in March,” said Steve Tam, ACT’s vice president and analyst. “While we will have to wait for the details of the month’s order volumes, logic suggests waning demand for tractors in the market retrenched in March.” A middle-of-the-pack seasonal factor –1.3% — places March’s intake to 17,100 units, down 8.6% from February. Additionally, March marks the first month since May 2023 for seasonally-adjusted activity below 20,000 units, ACT reports.

ATBS launches enhanced mobile app

Erica N. Guy - April 2, 2024

GOLDEN, Colo. — Trucking business management firm ATBS has launched a new addition to its app, “ATBS Hub.” For some years, feedback on how to better their services was gathered from hundreds of ATBS’ clients, according to a news release. “Over that time, the company took those suggestions and used the information to improve their work, leading to the creation of the single, secure, user-friendly resource that significantly enhances the experience for owner-operators working with us,” the news release states. The new ATBS Hub features several tools for viewing and analyzing your revenue, expenses and profitability including: Quickly Scanning and Sending Receipts to ATBS Tracking Your Per Diem Deduction and watching the tax-saving dollars add up in real-time Visualizing your Profit & Loss Statement and Profit Plan with interactive graphs and charts Accessing your Quarterly Tax Estimates and downloading them right to your phone Easily calling or emailing your Business Consultant with the tap of a button Accessing all of your ATBS Client information from any device, any time ATBS President and CEO, Todd Amen, commented, “We’ve had tremendous feedback from everyone who has experienced the ATBS Hub. It puts managing your business and taxes in the palm of your hand so you can focus on driving and making more money.” The ATBS Hub is now available to all ATBS clients. To learn more, visit www.atbs.com/mobile-app.