Truck Driving Job News Archives

Two football fields of danger: Understanding the risks of glancing at a phone while driving

Dana Guthrie - October 31, 2024

WASHINGTON — According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) research, about 80% of truck accidents involved some type of driver distraction in the three-second window leading up to the crash — and looking at a phone for just 8 seconds leaves a driver driving distracted for the length of two football fields. The FMCSA is mounting a strong campaign to raise awareness for the issue, including giving people the chance to see what can happen in just a few seconds after taking their eyes off of the road. Context-based insurance provider Quanata has developed the Distracted Driving Simulator, designed to show just how dangerous even a moment of distraction behind the wheel can be. By simulating the effects of performing tasks like texting or checking your phone while driving, the tool visually highlights the dangers of distracted driving. “Quanata’s technology aims to create a future where risk-informed choices enable safer drivers and better lives,” said Jim Ryan, senior vice president of business development at Quanata. “We recognize that a lot of the danger on our roads is caused by distracted driving and we want to help minimize that. We’re using cutting-edge technology and data to help people improve their driving and reduce that risk on the road.” Check out the simulator here. According to an FMCSA press release, the campaign aims to highlight the dangers of distracted driving to car owners and truck drivers alike. Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal road accidents in the U.S., claiming the lives of 3,308 people in 2022, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). “While this simulator can’t provide a complete picture of the dangers of distracted driving, our hope is to help illustrate how dangerous it is to glance down at your phone — and remind everyone how that time can add up when you’re behind the wheel,” Ryan said. Distracted Driving Simulator In the tool, you’re driving at 70 mph. If it takes eight seconds to send a “quick” text message, you’ll have been driving distracted for 821 feet. That’s equivalent to: The length of over two football fields. The length of more than 20 school buses. The length of 5 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Almost five times the height of the Niagara Falls. 66% of the height of the Empire State Building. National Statistics on Distracted Driving Every day, nine people in America die in traffic crashes caused by distracted drivers. There were 3,308 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving distracted drivers in 2022. There were 42,514 motor vehicle crash deaths in the USA in 2022, meaning 7.78% were caused by distracted driving. 289,310 people were injured in road incidents related to distracted driving in the same year. Research shows that distracted drivers are more than 11 times more likely to miss visual hazard cues. “Stats such as these are undeniable,” the release said. “It’s crucial to minimize the time we spend on distractions while driving to reduce such incidents.”It’s crucial to minimize the time we spend on distractions while driving to reduce such incidents. Quanata’s campaign aims to warn drivers of the potentially fatal implications of what may seem like insignificant actions.”

A showcase of brilliance: 2024 IFDA National Championship winners announced

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

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

Holiday heroes: Special Kenworth T680 to transport US Capitol Christmas tree from Alaska to DC

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

TONGASS NATIONAL FOREST — Kenworth is providing a T680, adorned with a newly installed graphics wrap, that will soon transport the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. “Kenworth is proud to again provide the truck that will transport the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree for the 11th consecutive year,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “Our continuing participation in this celebration that spreads holiday cheer in local communities from coast-to-coast is a program we look forward to every year.” The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree harvest celebration began Oct. 26 in Wrangell, Alaska, followed by the first Whistlestop tour event in Ketchikan. After the Alaska events, the tree and trailer will be loaded onto an Alaska Marine Lines barge where it will travel to Seattle, Wash. From there, the “People’s Tree” will begin a 4,000-mile journey across the country stopping at parks, plazas, schools, memorials, and main streets in a series of community events on its way to Washington, D.C. “Where Nature, People and Tradition Come Together,” is this year’s tour theme and the message is reflected on the special graphic design of the T680 featuring Alaska’s Tongass and Chugach National Forests. According to the media release, this year, real-time GPS location tracking of the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree will be provided by Kenworth’s TruckTech+ connected truck technology. Starting October 26th, the tree’s journey that begins in Alaska and concludes with delivery on November 22 in Washington D.C., can be tracked via interactive map Kenworth Tree Tracker 2024 | Kenworth Lynden, an Alaska-based company, is the official designated carrier for the 2024 tour. Lynden companies provide transportation and logistics solutions in Alaska, Canada, the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii and around the world. The company selected drivers Fred Austin and John Schank for the honor of transporting the special tree. Austin and Schank both began working for Lynden in 1975 and have earned numerous prestigious honors and designations for outstanding professionalism and skills. Collectively, they have driven over 10 million accident-free miles for Lynden in Alaska. This will be Schank’s second opportunity to carry the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as he previously drove in 2015, the last time a tree was harvested from Alaska and transported to Washington D.C. According to the release, the truck pulling this year’s tree is a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission and PACCAR DX-40 tandem real axles. The Kenworth T680 features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents and includes the latest in driver amenities. Both the driver and passenger seats are GT703 leather seats that are fully heated and cooled. The 76-inch sleeper includes space for a microwave and TV, a factory-installed fridge, and a rotating work table. The T680 also includes the latest in driver assistance systems, including Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering. Below is the current 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour public schedule: Oct. 30: Alaska Marine Highway Terminal, Ketchikan, Alaska Nov. 6: Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, Renton, Wash. Nov. 8: Baker County Fairgrounds & Event Center, Baker City, Ore. Nov. 9: The Pocatello Veterans Day Parade, Pocatello, Idaho Nov. 9: Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation’s Wheeler Historic Farm, Murray, Utah Nov. 10: Cabela’s, Grand Junction, Colo. Nov. 11: The Ranch Events Complex, Loveland, Colo. Nov. 13: Gene Leahy Mall at The Landing at The RiverFront, Omaha, Neb. Nov. 16: Parkview Field, Fort Wayne, Ind. Nov. 17: Center of Science and Industry, Columbus, Ohio Nov. 19: The Maryland Theater, Hagerstown, Md. Nov. 21: Andrews Theater, Joint Base Andrews, Md. (*base access only) Nov. 22: Delivery to West Lawn, U.S. Capitol Building, Washington, D.C. In early December, a tree lighting ceremony will take place, hosted by the Architect of the Capitol in coordination with the U.S. Speaker of the House. For more information, visit the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website www.uscapitolchristmastree.com

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

Dana Guthrie - October 30, 2024

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

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

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

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

Nationwide moving company scam exposed: Florida man to forfeit property

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

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

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

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

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

Freight demand grows, but for-hire demands remain choppy

Dana Guthrie - October 29, 2024

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

Tim Chelette of Big G Express finds joy in mentoring other drivers

Cliff Abbott - October 29, 2024

You can often tell a great athlete by the number of awards and accolades they’ve earned during their careers. The same can be said of professional truck drivers — in particular, Tim Chelette of Big G Express. Chelette is one of five drivers honored as a 2024 Professional Driver of the Year by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). The drivers were presented with their awards during the closing banquet of TCA’s 2024 annual convention, held in March at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville. The winners each received a prize of $20,000 along with a standing ovation from banquet attendees. Chelette has been driving for a total of 22 years, and he’s been with Big G Express for the past 18. During his years behind the wheel, he’s earned awards from Big G Express, as well as the Tennessee Trucking Association, Pilot Flying J Travel Centers and DMC Insurance. He was also a Captain of the American Trucking Association’s America’s Road Team in 2019-2020. Chelette’s career in the trucking industry did not begin behind the wheel, he told Truckload Authority. “I used to work in a distribution center, over the inventory department and unloading department, and drivers kept telling me how much they really love driving,” he said. “I never thought that I would ever become a trucker,” he said, adding that he loves his job as a driver. “I tell people all the time that when I get tired of being ‘on vacation,’ I’ll quit my job.” After making the decision to try his hand at driving, Chelette enrolled in a CDL school in Lebanon, Tennessee. He says he was surprised at how much professional drivers need to know. “I never had so much stuff crammed into my mind in that many days,” he said. “It was unbelievable!” At some point in the training, embarking on a trucking career became a reality for him. “It was a great experience, from the minute I walked up to that truck in the school,” he said. “I’m thinking, “My goodness, you see these things on the highway!’” While he had seen countless rigs traveling on the road, he’d never stopped to think about everything involved in transporting freight across the country, he said, adding that he believes the general public is mostly uneducated about trucks and the trucking industry. “That’s the beauty of getting to be being part of trucking associations — we get to educate the American people about following distance, stopping distance, how to pass a semi-truck,” he said. “They just don’t know about it.” Chelette has covered nearly 2 million miles in his driving career and has managed to see every state except Hawaii, either from behind the wheel of his truck or while vacationing. “I just came back from Alaska, so now I got 49 states,” he said. He appreciates the accolades he gets from trucking awards, but his passion goes beyond winning awards. “People see the passion and the love that I have for trucking. I really love it,” he said. “I love mentoring other drivers.” Chelette says he used to have as much fun on two wheels as he does driving an 18-wheeler. “I’ve ridden motorcycles all my life,” he said, but says those days have ended. “I just gave up motorcycles, and I’m getting back to my roots again.” In addition to riding for fun, he parlayed his love for motorcycles into fundraising, leading motorcycle events to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. “I did it for six years, and the last year I did it, I had 187 motorcycles. It was growing about 50 motorcycles every year. It was getting to the point where we would have had to split it into two rides” he said. “Since the goal was that 100% of the money raised would go to St. Jude’s, we didn’t want to take anything out of that.” Larger rides would have meant more administrative costs, more sponsors and more time away from work, so Chelette decided to move on, pursuing other interests. “I grew up doing a lot of hunting and fishing. I wanted to get back into fishing again, so I’ve been doing that a lot,” he said. “I have a two-car garage on my house, but I built me a nice two car garage in my backyard — and I just bought me a brand-new boat that goes in that garage.” Chelette has also embarked on another endeavor, one that he’s eager to share with world: He’s lost 130 pounds simply by changing his eating habits. He’s healthier and happier at his lower weight. Over the years, he’s been interviewed numerous times for stories about the various awards he has won, but his message remains constant. “When I get behind the wheel, I feel like it’s my job not just to make sure I get home safely to my family; it’s my job to make sure you get home to your family,” he said. Driving safety — and helping mentor others to do the same — just might be more important to Chelette than any of the awards and accolades he’s earned. Tim Chelette has no plans to stop helping others get home safely.

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

Brad Klepper - October 28, 2024

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

Autonomous tech helps make trucking safer, keep drivers healthier, developers say

John Worthen - October 28, 2024

Thinking about adding an autonomous truck or two to your fleet? If so, chances are that drivers’ reactions will be mixed, at best. Thinking about adding an autonomous truck or two to your fleet? If so, chances are that drivers’ reactions will be mixed, at best. After all, many drivers have expressed worries about the growing number of AI features in today’s Class 8 trucks, from inward-facing dash cam recorders to lane-assist sensors and automatic emergency braking. Perhaps the biggest concern heard from drivers is fear that autonomous trucks will lead to companies snatching the steering wheel from their hands, shifting them from cabs to unemployment lines. How can you integrate AI into your fleet without upsetting the proverbial apple cart? According to Walter Grigg, director of industry partnerships at Torc Robotics, professional drivers have nothing to fear. In fact, he contends, drivers will be the ones who benefit most from this technology — simply because they won’t have to spend as many hours behind the wheel. “Contrary to what many people may think, rather than leaving truckers without jobs, self-driving truck leaders plan to roll out hub-to-hub transportation models that take the long-haul tedium out of the picture, allowing truck drivers to handle the shorter, albeit more complex and engaging, routes,” he said. “Human drivers will be on either end of hub — and they will be closer to home,” he said. While full implementation of the hub-to-hub model featuring fully autonomous rigs is still many years away, Grigg says his company is working to ensure professional drivers will continue to play an integral role. “If you are a professional driver today and you are safe and good at your job … you will have a job for as long as you want one,” he noted, adding that Torc’s target year for putting driverless rigs on the highways is 2027. For drivers like Samuel Carter of Arkansas, who runs a route between Dallas and Little Rock on a weekly basis, the fear of being replaced by technology is there, but it’s not something he dwells on. “I am young, 27, so I know that in my lifetime I will likely have to deal with self-driving trucks and see how that plays out in my career,” he said. “I am not really worried about being replaced as a driver, but it is a little concerning. I just try not to worry about it and will deal with that when it comes time to.” Of course, there are numerous questions about the safety of autonomous systems. Phil Koopman, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, specializes in studies of vehicle automation safety. He agrees with Grigg that self-driving trucks can theoretically be safer than human-driven ones — for the very reason that they lack drivers who might become distracted or impaired. However, he cautions, computers will inevitably make errors. Just how the trucks will fare in real-world situations will depend on the quality of their safety engineering, he says. With billions of dollars in investments at stake, Koopman wonders how the companies will balance safety decisions against cost concerns. “Everything I see indicates they’re trying to do the right thing,” he said. “But the devil is in the details.” On the test track, reporters recently saw autonomous trucks powered by Aurora technology successfully avoid simulated road obstacles, including pedestrians, a blown tire and even a horse. Keep in mind, however: In these tests, the trucks were running at only 35 mph in a controlled environment, with no unexpected occurrences. These same trucks are being tested by Aurora — with human safety drivers on board — at speeds of 65 mph or higher on Texas freeways. Attorney Amy Witherite, founder of a law firm that specializes in vehicle accident cases, recently spoke out about what she calls “the dangers of driverless vehicles on the road.” “We have already seen problems with both autonomous trucks as well as vehicles such as Tesla with an autopilot feature,” she said. “The danger and severity of accidents will be multiplied a hundredfold when the accident involves a tractor-trailer versus a car.” Witherite points to recent reports of autonomous vehicles posing unnecessary risks to the general public. The state of California just this year called a halt to the use of autonomous taxis in the San Francisco area after the vehicles were involved in several incidents. Compounding these concerns, self-driving truck company Waymo recently recalled 444 self-driving vehicles after two minor collisions in quick succession in Arizona because a software error could result in them inaccurately predicting the movement of a towed vehicle. Alain Kornhauser, head of autonomous vehicle studies at Princeton University, recently told the Associated Press that he drove a borrowed Tesla for two weeks and found that it consistently spotted pedestrians and detected other drivers. While the software performs well most of the time, Kornhauser said he had to take control when the Tesla made moves that “scared” him, warning that self-driving vehicles aren’t ready to be used without human supervision. “This thing,” he said, “is not at a point where it can go anywhere.” The software that enables automated driving in passenger vehicles mirrors that being installed and tested in larger vehicles like semi-trucks. Tech developers note that automated sensors provide advance warning of dangers. During the previously mentioned test runs, Aurora trucks “spotted” obstacles more than a quarter mile away and acted immediately to avoid them. Chris Urmson, CEO of Aurora, says the trucks’ laser sensors can detect people walking on a highway at night, far beyond the distance of headlights. Already, several trucking companies are partnering with autonomous tech providers to roll out self-driving Class 8 rigs on test runs between major cities. Aurora and Torc are among the tech firms working on autonomous semis and trucking hubs. Kodiak Robotics and truck stop giant Pilot Co. have planned a Pilot travel center in Villa Rica, Georgia, which will be used by Kodiak to launch and land autonomous trucks. Company officials say the facility will serve as a hub for drivers to pick up and drop off first-and last-mile deliveries. The Villa Rica truckport will support Kodiak’s 18,000-mile-long autonomous deployment network, the industry’s largest and most robust set of mapped routes for self-driving trucks. Last summer, Torc announced plans to collaborate with C.R. England on a pilot program using C.R. England’s temperature-controlled loads and Torc’s fleet of Level 4 autonomous test trucks for long-haul applications. At Level 4, the interaction between human and machine lowers as the vehicle’s capability increases. Steering, braking, accelerating and monitoring the environment are taken out of the driver’s hands, as well as changing lanes, turning and signaling, according to navigation company TomTom. However, with Level 4 technology, a human still has the option to manually override the system. Chad England, CEO of C.R. England, says he believes autonomous trucking will eventually lead to the company expanding its network safely, with high levels of service to its customers, all while enhancing the quality of existing driver jobs. “Specifically, by adding autonomous lanes to our network, we can expand our customer offerings and create more structured jobs for drivers at both ends of autonomous runs,” England said. “Torc’s deep integration with Daimler Truck AG makes our two organizations a perfect fit for piloting this new technology.” Back at Torc’s headquarters, Grigg, a CDL holder himself, seeks to reassure drivers who think they’ll be replaced by technology. He’s been out on the road many times in a big rig and says he understands the way drivers think. He appreciates their points of view. In short, he says, part of Torc’s goal is to help make truckers’ lives easier and healthier. Bringing autonomy to trucking can help drivers by taking them out of the cab for days on end and allowing them to work closer to home, with shorter routes. That means less sitting and more body movement, which is better for the heart and overall health, he said. “Truck drivers are the heartbeat of the American economy and our supply chains — but what does the average heart health of a trucker look like?” Grigg said. “There’s quite a bit of historic data … that point out the higher likelihood of diabetes, heart disease and unhealthy habits like smoking that are prevalent in the truck driver population as a result of long, arduous hours on the road. “Rest assured, we have the best interests of the drivers in mind with all of our plans,” he concluded.

Freight corridor gets electrified: EPA’s $250 million green tech grant for I-95

Dana Guthrie - October 25, 2024

RIDGEFIELD, N.J. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, alongside U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr., U.S. Representative Rob Menendez, and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, celebrated the award of nearly a quarter of a billion dollars ($250 million) to the Clean Corridor Coalition. “Today marks a pivotal investment in our efforts to address climate change and promote environmental justice along Interstate 95,” said Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Regional Administrator. “This $250 million grant will reduce harmful air pollution along one of the nation’s busiest freight corridors, create jobs, and deliver health benefits to communities along this key transportation route.” According to an EPA press release, standing at the Vince Lombardi Service Area in Ridgefield, N.J. with climate and freight industry leaders, Garcia highlighted the transformative impact this grant—part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act—will have on the region’s clean energy infrastructure. “Today’s announcement of $250 million to electrify the I-95 freight corridor, secured through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed by Democrats in Congress and the Biden-Harris administration, will create a vital network of charging infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles to help reduce harmful pollution along one of our nation’s busiest highways,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker. “Prioritizing clean, sustainable infrastructure and technology protects our environment and public health, creates thousands of good-paying jobs, and brings us one step closer to building a resilient, green economy that works for everyone. I am proud that New Jersey continues to be a leader in our collective efforts to combat air pollution and climate change through promoting sustainable infrastructure.” The landmark grant, funded through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, will fund the electric vehicle charging infrastructure for commercial zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles along the Interstate-95 freight corridor. “The leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration and the Murphy Administration on climate initiative will have a positive impact on New Jerseyans for generations to come,” said U.S. Senator George Helmy. “Decarbonizing the transportation sector, which accounts for more carbon emissions than any other in the United States, is critical to avoiding the worst impacts of climate change. Transitioning America’s trucking fleet to zero emissions will help to drastically reduce air pollution and our carbon footprint, and this crucial funding will help expedite that process. Not only will this money help protect our environment, but it will also create clean-energy jobs and training for underserved communities. I applaud President Biden, Vice President Harris, EPA Regional Administrator Lisa Garcia, and NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette for their continued efforts to safeguard our environment.” The Clean Corridor Coalition, led by NJDEP, includes the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the Delaware Department of Transportation, and the Maryland Departments of the Environment and Transportation. Under the project, the state agencies will install extensive electric vehicle charging infrastructure for commercial zero-emission vehicles along the I-95 freight corridor, providing critical technical assistance for workforce development and corridor planning across New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, and Maryland. “This $250 million grant to build out electric vehicle infrastructure along the I-95 corridor is exactly the kind of transformative climate investment we envisioned when we passed the Inflation Reduction Act,” said U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr. “As a key author of this program, I’m proud to see it bringing medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicle charging infrastructure to New Jersey, creating good-paying jobs, and training workers in underserved communities. This project will cut harmful pollution that causes asthma attacks and climate change by making the I-95 corridor cleaner and more efficient. It’s a major step forward and a testament to the lasting impact of the Inflation Reduction Act.” U.S. Representative Donald Norcross said that he was proud to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act to help fund electric vehicle infrastructure across the nation and make charging stations more accessible to Americans. He also noted that the $250 million New Jersey will be receiving for I-95 is “an important step in the right direction toward combatting climate change and will help us cut down on carbon emissions. Electric vehicles are the future, and our infrastructure investments must reflect that.” “This grant brings us a significant step closer to meeting our critical clean energy goal of helping New Jersey lead the charge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions along one of the nation’s busiest corridors,” said U.S. Representative Andy Kim. “I’m proud to have helped secure this funding through the Inflation Reduction Act to build electric vehicle charging infrastructure in our region and pave the way for more zero-emission vehicles. I look forward to seeing this investment bring good paying jobs, continued economic growth, and look after the long-term health and security of local communities.” U.S. Representative Rob Menendez said that it is essential to use every tool available to fight the climate crisis and protect the environment. “This nearly $250 million investment is a crucial step in the right direction, fulfilling the promises we made in the Inflation Reduction Act,” Menendez said. “It was great to join my state and federal colleagues today to celebrate this investment and further understand its impact. I remain proud that New Jersey is continuing to lead the way in building a green economy and investing in resilient infrastructure, and I thank the Environmental Protection Agency and the Biden-Harris Administration for their partnership.” New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also lauded the project. “Expanding our charging infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is key to lowering emissions and improving air quality in our communities,” Murphy said. “I’m proud to celebrate building out charging infrastructure along the I-95 corridor, which will help us facilitate New Jersey’s transition to an electric vehicle future, support workforce development, and provide benefits to our overburdened communities. We are thankful to the Biden-Harris Administration and the members of our congressional delegation who voted for the Inflation Reduction Act for securing this critical funding.” New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette said the plan is a critical piece in combating climate change. “We are grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and our federal partners at the EPA for supporting the Murphy Administration’s commitment to a zero-emissions future that combats climate change and protects public health,” LaTourette said. “Trucks and buses account for only four percent of all vehicles on the road but generate nearly 25 percent of our transportation-sector greenhouse gas emissions. Charting a path to electrify these vehicles is critical. This award of nearly $250 million for truck charging infrastructure along the I-95 corridor is a critical down payment for zero-emission freight movement and will catalyze the deployment of zero-emission freight trucks in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. The DEP is proud to be spearheading this effort.” “Electrification of freight transport is essential to improving public health and protecting communities from the impacts of climate change,” said Kate Zyla, executive director of the Georgetown Climate Center. “By building the foundation for a regional charging network for zero-emission freight-hauling trucks, New Jersey and its partners in Delaware, Connecticut, and Maryland are continuing to lead the way in tackling climate change and one of the biggest sources of the pollution that causes it. The Georgetown Climate Center is proud to have supported New Jersey DEP and the team that prepared this proposal, and we look forward to continued work with these states and partners in the region to help implement this transformative investment.” Mike Roeth, executive director of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) said the organization believes that having enroute charging is a key for the deployment of battery electric heavy-duty tractors in long haul routes. “The work we have done in our Guidance Reports on battery electric trucks and through our Run on Less demonstrations has shown that lack of a charging infrastructure is a significant barrier to adoption of battery electric vehicles,” Roeth said. “This announcement by the EPA is a step toward developing a nationwide charging network.” “The Clean Corridor Coalition’s efforts will help power cleaner truck fleets with zero exhaust stack emissions hauling goods in the Northeast,” said Paul Miller, executive director of NESCAUM, an association of eight northeastern state air quality agencies. “These investments will deliver needed reductions in climate-disrupting greenhouse gases and in health-damaging black soot and other air pollution emitted by diesel trucks, especially in communities located close to busy ports, warehouses, and truck routes.” With $248.9 million in awarded funds, the project will establish 24 freight truck charging sites, equipping them with 450 charging ports across four states. This infrastructure is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 18.6 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent by 2050. The initiative will also train 400 workers, focusing on providing opportunities for low-income communities. By driving emissions reductions in the transportation sector, this project will deliver significant environmental and economic benefits, setting a new standard for clean energy initiatives nationwide. “Interstate-95 is the transit and trucking backbone of the northeast region, and we are so pleased that the NJDEP has been awarded $249 million to lead a collaborative effort to deploy charging infrastructure for medium and heavy-duty trucks along this critical corridor,” said Anjuli Ramos-Busot, director of the NJ Sierra Club. “As one of the most densely populated states in the country and commuter hub on the East Coast, New Jersey’s transportation sector is one of our largest sources of carbon emissions and air pollution. Electrifying I-95 is an extraordinary effort that will deliver long lasting public health benefits for New Jerseyans and the region. This is a massive win for climate action, regional air quality, and the communities experiencing roadway pollution,” “We thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their investment in paving the way toward a cleaner and safer roadway for generations to come.”

CVSA releases 2024 Brake Safety Week results

Dana Guthrie - October 25, 2024

Certified inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. conducted 16,725 inspections on commercial motor vehicles as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) North American Brake Safety Week, Aug. 25-31, which revealed that approximately 87% of the commercial motor vehicles inspected did not have out-of-service violations and were deemed safe and permitted to proceed on roadways. “Out of the 16,725 commercial motor vehicle inspections conducted, 2,149 of those vehicles had brake-related out-of-service violations, which is a 12.8% out-of-service rate,” the CVSA said in a press release. “A vehicle is placed out of service when critical vehicle inspection items are identified during an inspection as conditions found in the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria (OOSC). When a vehicle is placed out of service, it is restricted from further travel until all out-of-service violations have been corrected. CVSA’s out-of-service criteria identifies critical vehicle inspection items and details the criteria that prohibit a motor carrier or driver from operating a commercial motor vehicle until the violations have been addressed.” According to the release, of the 2,149 commercial motor vehicles placed out of service, 1,355 (63.1%) had stand-alone out-of-service brake violations and 217 (10.1%) had steering axle brake out-of-service violations. Also, 1,216 (56.6%) failed the 20% defective brakes criterion, which states that a vehicle is out of service if the number of defective brakes is equal to or greater than 20% of the service brakes on the vehicle or combination. Note: a vehicle may have more than one violation type. The focus area for this year’s Brake Safety Week was on lining/pad violations. Throughout the week, inspectors looked for loose, missing or worn brake lining/pads, as well as cracks, voids or contamination. Inspectors found 382 lining/pad violations on power (tractor) units and 272 on towed (trailer) units, for a total of 654 brake lining/pad violations. Sixty-one jurisdictions participated in this year’s Brake Safety Week. In Canada, inspectors conducted 1,926 inspections and discovered 243 brake-related out-of-service violations, which is a 12.6% out-of-service rate. Forty-four power units and 49 towed units had lining/pad violations. In Mexico, inspectors conducted 107 inspections and discovered six brake-related out-of-service violations, which is a 5.6% out-of-service rate. One power unit and five towed units had lining/pad violations. In the U.S., inspectors conducted 14,692 inspections and discovered 1,900 brake-related out-of-service violations, which is a 12.9% out-of-service rate. Lining/pad violations were found on 310 power units and 172 towed units. Eighteen states with performance-based brake testers (PBBT) participated in this year’s Brake Safety Week by conducting 452 inspections using their PBBTs. There were 26 failures, which is a 5.75% out-of-service rate. Brake Safety Week is part of the CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program, a comprehensive program dedicated to improving commercial motor vehicle brake safety throughout North America. The goal is to reduce the number of crashes caused by faulty braking systems on commercial motor vehicles by conducting roadside inspections and educating drivers, mechanics, owner-operators and others on the importance of proper brake inspection, maintenance and operation. Next year’s Brake Safety Week is scheduled for Aug. 24-30, 2025.

DAT iQ surpasses $1 trillion in freight transaction data

Dana Guthrie - October 25, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — DAT Freight and Analytics reports that the value of freight transactions analyzed by its DAT iQ platform now exceeds $1 trillion, affirming its position as the industry’s most comprehensive dataset for forecasting and benchmarking truckload, less-than-truckload and intermodal pricing. “DAT pioneered truck-transportation analytics in 2010 when we started collecting invoice data to produce benchmark rates and forecasts based on real transactions for loads moved,” said Jeff Clementz, DAT president and CEO. “Today, we have $1 trillion in verified freight transactions—real loads that moved. Where other analytics services fill gaps with proxy data, we deliver the clearest picture of past performance, current conditions, and future trends.” According to a press release, using invoices submitted by freight shippers and brokers, DAT iQ analyzes anonymized transactions to help freight brokers, shippers, and carriers understand and anticipate trends in market demand and pricing. The data comes from nearly 670 million separate invoices covering tens of thousands of transportation lanes over almost 15 years of market cycles. “Having the industry’s largest set of transaction data allows our models to learn the complexities of freight pricing, reduce bias and errors, and produce more accurate predictions,” said Ken Adamo, DAT chief of analytics. “It also allows us to reliably infer rates where no data exists or the data is sparse, which is ideal for those low-volume lanes that shippers depend on brokers to cover.” The release noted that the $1 trillion dataset powers DAT iQ RateView, the industry’s most popular truckload pricing tool, and DAT iQ Benchmark, the transportation procurement intelligence service for shippers. Using advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence, DAT iQ gives all parties in the freight transaction a single source of truth, or at least a starting point from which they can validate if their pricing is aligned with market trends today and into the future. DAT iQ models consume new data daily. An increasingly diverse pool of truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal transportation data sources mitigates the risk of any single provider or type of freight significantly influencing the results. “With the trust and cooperation of customers collectively sharing invoice data, DAT iQ has become the leader in actionable intelligence and the starting point for honest negotiations,” Clementz said. “We’re proud of this milestone and grateful for our contributors.” DAT announced its $1 trillion milestone at its DATCON24 user conference taking place this week in Kansas City, Missouri. For more information about DAT iQ, visit www.dat.com/iq.

Living in faith: NFI’s Howard Robinson practices what he preaches

John Worthen - October 24, 2024

When professional truck driver Howard Robinson isn’t watching the world go by from the cab of his big rig, he’s glimpsing hope in the eyes of prison inmates or praying for his co-workers and their families. At 81, there isn’t much Robinson, who drives for NFI, hasn’t seen or done. Robinson doesn’t look or act like an octogenarian, and his youthful appearance dovetails with his abilities. He can climb in and out of a semi-truck dozens of times a day and crank the fifth wheel handle with ease, as shown in a recent company video chronicling his career. “Whenever there’s a call from the mill at International Paper or if there is word that the paper supply is running low, Howard jumps into action and ensures the customer’s needs are fulfilled without fail,” according to a statement from NFI leadership. That hard work and dedication to his co-workers and company have earned Robinson honors as one of the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) 2024 Drivers of the Year. Robinson is “a shining example of perseverance, professionalism, and safety in the transportation industry,” according to TCA. He first got behind the wheel of a big rig while serving in the Army, and he has been a professional driver for three decades. He began his civilian career with MCO Transport, which was acquired by NFI in 2022. In addition to his dedication to his company and customers, Robinson is devoted to his family and his community. As a man of faith, he works to be a living example of Christ. During his off time, he and his wife, Judy, lead a prison ministry and teach Bible study at a local nursing home. “I got saved back in ’91,” he shared, describing his route to prison ministry, a mission that is dear to his heart. “I went to church,” said Robinson, who says he had several brushes with the law in his younger days. “This man was preaching about it. He said, ‘Well, you (should) take your testimony to the prison.’” Two weeks later, after praying and thinking about the matter, he was back at the same church and decided to minister to inmates in prisons and county jails. He and Judy now lead regular services for inmates. During his time in the Army, Robinson says, he struggled with several addictions — including drugs, alcohol and gambling — at times. He speaks of the prisoners he helps like family, sharing his story of deliverance through his belief in God. “You know, they have their regular chapel there,” he said. “We’ve been doing it for — it’s been, I guess 20, 25 years maybe. But it’s been a joy. Some guys come out (of prison) to become preachers, and some guys go out and come right back (to jail). But that’s between them and God.” Robinson also shares his love of God with his co-workers. “We go to church together sometimes, and he’s always praying for me and my family and my mom. I really appreciate that because I didn’t have that when I was coming up from my dad,” said Daje L., who works as a transportation ops clerk at NFI. “He really came into my life and showed me what a father figure is supposed to look like,” she continued. During his 30 years in the industry, Robinson has achieved a perfect record of zero accidents and zero violations. He stresses the importance of safety at every turn. In 2023, he was a recipient of NFI’s Million Mile Award, and recently he was inducted into NFI’s Haul of Fame. “It’s exciting to have one of our own recognized with such an honor by the TCA. We pride ourselves on safety and our people,” said Brian Webb, president of port services at NFI. “Driving for more than 30 years and over a million miles without any accidents or violations is admirable. Howard sets a great example for all drivers, and we’re proud to have him on our team.” Robinson is described by his co-workers as someone with a radiant personality, never-ending smile and conscientious nature. “He is highly regarded and cherished by his team, customers, management, friends, and family,” notes an NFI statement about Robinson’s Million Mile Award. “Often the first in the yard and the last to leave, Howard is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the job gets done. “(Howard) has transformed a troubled past and the lives of others through his unwavering commitment to his faith, family, and community,” the news release continues. “This award is a testament to his drive for excellence and paves the way for current and future NFI drivers.” Judy Robinson, reflecting on her husband’s accolades, says she’s grateful to God for being able to spend her life with him and see him succeed. “As our relationship progressed, I just saw the need for it … being a servant for the Lord,” she shared. “I’m just thankful that the Lord took what the devil meant for evil and used it for good.” Robinson is the first to say that he is the man he is today because God saved him. “I mean, the alcohol, the drugs, the carousing and all — God delivered me that day I was saved,” he said. “And then from that day on, I haven’t been the same. “I’ve never pulled a tab on a beer can, a beer bottle, since. I give all the glory to God.”

Strong new truck sales delay capacity adjustment in the freight market

Cliff Abbott - October 24, 2024

U.S. sales of new Class 8 trucks were stronger than expected in September when 21,813 trucks were reported sold by manufacturers, according to Wards Intelligence. Strong truck sales would seem to be bad news for a freight market that’s plagued by overcapacity, keeping rates low. There is, however, good news in the numbers. Large numbers of the new trucks being sold are going to vocational purposes. “The clean energy transition and AI are driving utility infrastructure investment, while government programs such as CHIPS and BIL have boosted public infrastructure and reshoring projects,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst at ACT Research. The CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 (CHIPS) provides $50 billion for research, development and manufacture of silicone chips used in electronics and other applications. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), passed in November 2021, provides $1.2 trillion for infrastructure projects. Those projects require trucks — and lots of them. Grants for projects under these bills are just getting started and will continue for years. Companies involved in these construction projects are stocking up on equipment such as day-cab tractors to pull dump trailers and Class 8 trucks fitted with dump, concrete or other bodies. OTR freight segment still awash with available tractors The number of sleeper-equipped Class 8 tractors going to the freight hauling segment of trucking is declining, but at an excruciating low pace. “The U.S. and Canadian tractor markets remain awash in capacity, allowing rates to rise only incrementally over the past year,” Vieth said. “The result has been for-hire carrier profitability at the lowest levels since the global financial crisis (2007-2008).” Vieth describes current levels as “the current worst-in-15-years depression in carrier financial conditions.” September is typically a big month for new truck orders as the next year’s models are announced in August. FTR reports that preliminary North American Class 8 orders in September reached 30,000. That figure is way up from August but represents a decline of 4% from September of 2023. The figure was revised to 3,3000 units as more data came in. Dan Moyer, FTR’s senior analyst/commercial vehicles, also points to the vocational market as a driver of the orders. “The vocational market considerably outperformed the conventional sector, driving most of the month-over-month improvement,” Moyer said. Carriers are still buying, but they’re not expanding their fleets. “Despite stagnant freight markets, fleets continue to invest in new equipment, albeit at replacement demand levels in 2024 to date,” he said. On the used Class 8 market, ACT Research reported a robust month, with dealers reporting an 11% increase over August and a 13% increase over September 2023 numbers. The average used truck was 11% cheaper than it was a year ago and about the same age with 4% more miles on it. ACT’s Steve Tam, vice president and senior analyst says lower interest rates may have sparked some of the increase as well as confidence in freight rates. Carriers ordered trailers in September, too, but not at the levels at which they ordered tractors. FTR reported sales of 11,532 orders for new trailers, down 63% from September 2023. It was the worst September for trailer orders since 2016, the report said. “This divergence suggests that some fleets are prioritizing spending on new power units over trailers, possibly due to reduced profitability or shifting trade cycles,” Moyer said. OEM sales for September 2024 Freightliner led the way in U.S. new Class 8 truck sales in September, reporting movement of 8,137 units for a 6.3% increase over August sales. Compared with September 2023, sales increased 3.4%. For the year to date, Freightliner’s 64,286 trucks sold is 16.0% behind last year’s pace but good for 36.2% of the new Class 8 market in the U.S. Daimler sibling Western Star topped sales of 1,000 for the second consecutive month, reporting 1,006 sold. Although the company’s 8,098 trucks sold represents just 4.6% of the U.S. Class 8 market year to date, the number represents a 40.4% increase over last year’s first nine months — the only percentage increase for any of the major truck manufacturers. International is going in the other direction for the year to date, with 18,835 Class 8 trucks sold compared with 28,973 at the same point of 2023 — a decline of 35%. U.S. sales of 2,705 in September represented an increase of 3.6% over August but lagged behind September 2023 sales by 15.5%. The company has seen its market share drop from 14.3% a year ago to its current 10.6%. Peterbilt reported 3,088 Class 8 trucks sold in September, just 27 fewer than in August (0.9%) and down 10.6% from September 2023 sales. For the year to date, Peterbilt ‘s 28,366 is 2.3% behind sales at the same point as last year, but as a share of the total Class 8 market has risen by 1.6% and currently sits at 16.0% for the year. Kenworth’s 3,176 sold in September was 1.8% higher than its August sales and 5.9% higher than a year ago September. Year to date, the company has sold 27,491 Class 8 trucks, 15.5% of the total market for 2024 and 3.3% ahead of last year’s pace. Volvo reported U.S. sales of 2,514 Class 8 trucks, up 44.9% from August’s sales numbers. For the year, 18,331 Class 8 Volvos have been sold, down 8.2% from last year at the same point. According to reports, 10.3% of the new Class 8 trucks sold this year have been Volvos, down 0.5% from the 2023 pace. Mack took the largest sales drop in September with sales of 1,168 compared with 1,391 in August for a decline of 16.0%. Compared with September 2023 sales declined by 28.0%. For the year so far, Mack’s 11,898 sold represents an 11.9% decline from its 2023 pace for the first nine months. Its share of the Class 8 market remains the same as last year’s at 6.7%. How truck sales finish out the final quarter of 2024 will help determine how 2025 will begin for carriers. For freight rates to increase, more trucks must come out of the market — but that process may be delayed further if new truck sales remain strong.

2024-25 WIT Index: The rise of women in trucking roles and what it means for the future

Dana Guthrie - October 24, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va.– The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has released findings of its 2024-25 WIT Index which is the industry’s barometer to benchmark and measure the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation. According to a WIT press release, these roles include corporate management (C-Suite), those who serve on boards of directors, management and supervisory roles and functional roles such as operations, technicians, HR/talent management, safety and professional drivers. “From August 2023 through April 2024, WIT conducted a survey of organizations of all sizes in transportation to gather percentages of women in their workforce,” WIT said in the release. “The respondents were asked to report data that included demographics, status of the company’s diversity and inclusion policy, and percentages of females in various roles within the company.” Approximately 350 respondents reported their organizations’ gender diversity statistics in the WIT Index (2024-25) survey. A majority of them (51.5%) represent for-hire motor carriers or companies with private fleets as part of the organization’s operations. Of those respondents representing organizations with fleet assets, 38% are for-hire motor carriers of various types (full truckload, less-than-truckload, refrigerated, flatbed, expedited and liquid) and 13.5% are manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and other company types with private fleets. Another 13.5% of respondents are intermediary companies, including third-party logistics companies, truck brokers, and intermodal marketing companies (IMCs). “The 2024-25 WIT Index survey found a substantial number of women in influential leadership roles,” WIT said. “Approximately 28% in C-Suite/executive positions are women, 34.5% in supervisory leadership roles are women, and 29.5% of those who serve on boards of directors are women.” A significant percentage of women also hold roles in these functions: 74.5% in human resources/talent management, 38.5% in dispatcher roles, and 38.5% in safety. However, only 4% of truck diesel technicians are women. “It has been a common assumption for years that the size of companies with for-hire or private fleets have a correlation to the percentage of professional truck drivers who are women,” WIT said. “For the first time, the 2024-25 WIT Index reported percentage of professional truck drivers who are women based upon company workforce size. According to this year’s WIT Index, micro/small companies with less than 500 employees report that 12.5% of their overall professional driver population who hold CDLs are women. Large/medium enterprises with 500 to 4,999 employees report that approximately 10.5% of their overall professional driver workforce who hold CDLs are women. Giant/major enterprises with more than 5,000 employees report that approximately 7% of their truck driver population who hold CDLs are women. It’s important to note that these percentages reflect professional truck drivers who hold CDLs and are driving medium- to heavy-duty commercial trucks, not last-mile or delivery vans or other vehicles that are not heavy-duty trucks.” Click on the following links to review specific data. Percentages of company types Percentages of C-Suite/executives Percentages of supervisory leadership Percentages of boards of directors Percentages of HR/talent management Percentages of dispatchers Percentages of safety professionals Percentages of technicians Percentages of female professional drivers

Analysts say trucking conditions will begin to improve — but slowly

Cliff Abbott - October 24, 2024

For several months, there have been hints that the freight market is beginning to turn. Unfortunately, spot freight rates have been bouncing along the bottom for so long that smaller carriers — and some larger ones, too — weren’t able to hold on. Those that remain should see market improvement, but analysts say it may be excruciatingly slow. The Cass Freight Index showed a 1.7% decrease in shipments for September, following a 1.0% August increase. September shipments were down 5.2% from the same month of 2023. The Cass Freight Index for Expenditures, however, rose 2.4% in September from August levels. Shippers paid more for freight transportation, even though diesel fuel costs declined during the month. The Cass Inferred Freight Rates, calculated from the total expenditures and shipments, showed a 4.2% month-over-month increase. While the rates are averaged from multiple modes of transportation and not taken from actual published rates, the trend is encouraging. The Cass report, written by Tim Denoyer of ACT Research, points out that private fleets have helped prolong the down cycle in freight rates. Companies that were severely impacted by record high freight rates during the pandemic increased the size of their own fleets, putting less of their product on the spot market while taking loads that would have been hauled by for-hire carriers. Denoyer mentions another event that could impact freight rates: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s mandated automatic downgrade of CDLs when a driver is in a “prohibited” status takes effect Nov. 18, 2024. Under the “Clearinghouse-II” rule, states are required to downgrade CDLs to non-CDL status when drivers fail a drug or alcohol screen, refuse to test or are otherwise disqualified. As of Nov. 18, all licensing agencies are required to be connected to the Clearinghouse database. As a result, states that were not previously connected could find drivers who are currently in a prohibited status but still driving. There’s no way to estimate how many drivers might lose their CDL privileges as a result, but the number could be significant enough to push freight rates upward — at least temporarily. DAT Freight & Analytics, which operates the largest U.S. load board, began its October report by saying that September freight volumes and rates “signaled that the usual cyclical demand for truckload capacity is on the upswing.” DAT reports that its Truckload Volume Index (TVI) declined for dry van, refrigerated and flatbed segments in September — but the declines were seasonal. They happen every September. The good news is that all three equipment types saw increases over September 2023. Van volumes increased by 6% and refrigerated by 12%, while flatbed volumes rose a more modest 2%. “September showed we’re firmly into a new freight cycle after nearly 22 months of rather extreme expansion and 27 months of contraction,” said Ken Adamo, DAT’s chief of analytics. “We expect seasonality to provide some tailwinds over the next few months, and hopefully modest improvements in rates coupled with retail freight volumes and stable fuel prices can get the motor carrier base on more solid footing.” The American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Truck Tonnage Index fell 2.1% in September. Like the DAT information, the results were due more to the season than trends. “Freight has been very choppy this year, but despite the latest drop, tonnage is up 1.8% since hitting a low in January,” explained Bob Costello, ATA’s chief economist. “No doubt, the climb up has been slow and difficult as manufacturing activity remains flat, but the trend is up, not down.” Low freight rates are only one of the problems facing carriers. Inflation has hit everyone hard, and small trucking businesses are no exception. The cost of trucks, parts, repairs and just about everything else has risen in the past few years. The exception is diesel fuel, which has declined in price. While the rate of inflation has slowed, the cost increases brought about by higher inflation remain. Without a recession to “reset” the economy, prices won’t be going down; they just won’t be going up as fast as they were. Financial services provider Deloitte, in its economic forecast for the third quarter of 2024, said that “robust consumer spending, high business investment and lower interest rates” have created optimism about the U.S. economy. The firm predicts that federal adjustments to interest rates will succeed in keeping inflation around 2.2% toward the end of the year. For 2025, an inflation rate of 1.5% is forecast. The Fed’s Open Market committee meets again in early November and is expected to reduce interest rates another .25%. Deloitte predicts total cuts for 2024 of 1%, with another 1% through 2025. The economic wild card for trucking could be the cost of diesel fuel. Military conflicts are ongoing in both the Middle East and in Ukraine — and both are regions that produce petroleum. Should either conflict escalate, crude oil prices could rise quickly. Another potential issue could come as a result of the presidential election in the U.S. Both major candidates — former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris — have discussed the possibility of imposing or increasing tariffs on foreign goods. When tariffs are involved, imports and exports are impacted. The result can be changes in the amount of available freight, pushing rates up or down. The short-lived labor stoppage at U.S. East Coast ports has been settled, for now. The International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance agreed to a tentative deal, extending their current contract to January 15, less than a week prior to the inauguration of the next U.S. president. Expected freight shortages throughout this year’s holiday season have been averted. The agreement calls for a 61.5% pay increase for workers with other issues to be ironed out in negotiations by the January 15 deadline. Perhaps the largest issue to resolve is that of automation. The U.S. lags behind other countries in the degree of automation used. The 85,000-member union seeks to preserve jobs, while port operators look to increase efficiency and reduce costs. The months ahead should see trucking conditions improve, but slowly.

Drivers Legal Plan gets endorsement from NCTA

Bruce Guthrie - October 23, 2024

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Drivers Legal Plan (DLP), a national law firm specializing in CDL ticket defense for commercial truck drivers, announced a formal endorsement by the North Carolina Trucking Association (NCTA), the non-profit organization representing the trucking industry in the state. According to a press release issued recently, the partnership “reinforces both organizations’ commitment to supporting the trucking community and advocating for the rights of professional drivers.” With a successful track record in defending commercial drivers against a wide range of traffic violations, DLP has consistently delivered favorable outcomes for its clients. The NCTA added that its endorsement “is a testament to DLP’s expertise, reliability, and dedication to protecting the livelihoods of professional drivers and therefore the interests of trucking companies.” “The recent severe storms in North Carolina have had a devastating impact on our state, and the trucking industry has been hit hard,” said Ben Greenberg, President and CEO of the North Carolina Trucking Association. “It’s more crucial than ever to support our members and help protect their interests. We are proud to endorse Drivers Legal Plan, and their extensive experience in our industry makes them an ideal partner for our members.” “We’re honored to announce our partnership with the North Carolina Trucking Association and have committed a portion of our revenue from NCTA members back to the organization,” stated Marilyn Surber, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Drivers Legal Plan. “We’re committed to offering our comprehensive legal services to NCTA members, providing them with the peace of mind and legal protection their drivers deserve on the road.”

Heads up, Colorado! New 2025 law bans holding phones while driving

Dana Guthrie - October 23, 2024

COLORADO — In a significant move to reduce distracted driving, Colorado will implement a new law beginning Jan. 1, 2025, that prohibits people from using a mobile electronic device while driving unless they use a hands-free accessory. CDOT will launch an awareness campaign over the next several months to ensure all Coloradans are aware of the law and best practices. The campaign will include outreach through social media, paid ads and collaboration with key stakeholders. “This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of CDOT. “By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike or walking.” According to CDOT’s 2024 Driver Behavior Report, 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phones while driving, with 45% saying a hands-free feature in their car would stop them from using their phone. Studies show that using a mobile device while driving increases the risk of a crash by two to six times. According to a CDOT press release, distracted drivers pose a particularly high risk to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and bicyclists. From 2015 to 2023, deaths among pedestrians and bicyclists increased by 50% and 112.5%, respectively, while Colorado’s population grew by less than 8% during the same period. As of January 2025, 30 states will have a ban on using hand-held devices while driving. The new law prohibits the use of cellphones for drivers and aims to reduce crashes and fatalities caused by distracted driving. “Colorado joins 29 other states in prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving,” CDOT said in the release. “States with similar laws have reported decreases in distracted driving crashes. In Michigan, a 2023 law banning hand-held cellphone use led to a 12.8% decrease in distracted driving crashes within the first year.” Penalties for violating the new law start with a $75 fine and two license suspension points for the first offense. First-time violators can have the charge dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. Repeat offenders face higher fines and more license suspension points. “For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights, not to mention seeing a phone or other device in a driver’s hand,” said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This legislation allows us to address risky and careless behaviors in a proactive way to increase the safety of all roadway users.” As the January 2025 deadline approaches, CDOT is urging all drivers to begin putting down their phones when driving, ensuring they are prepared when the law takes effect. Drivers are encouraged to acquire hands-free accessories such as dashboard mounts and car speakerphone systems to comply with the new law. The law includes exemptions for individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders and individuals in parked vehicles. These exceptions ensure that critical communications are not hindered in emergency or essential service situations. To learn more about Colorado’s hands-free law, visit codot.gov/handsfreeco.