Truck Driving Job News Archives

Outpost launches truck parking tech platform to improve visibility, security and booking

Dana Guthrie - July 11, 2024

Outpost has launched a new technology platform that helps fleets and owner-operators book truck parking nationwide while giving fleet managers and operations teams visibility into their assets’ location and condition. “Terminals and truck yards provide critical infrastructure for streamlining the flow of freight, but they’ve traditionally been locked away to very few enterprise fleets that can afford the associated capital expense and operational burden,” said Outpost co-founder and CEO, Trent Cameron. “With Outpost technology, we’re democratizing access to this real estate—giving fleets of all sizes a yard network that they can use as their own, with control over access and visibility into everything that happens onsite.” The company has begun rolling out the integrated hardware, software, and cloud services at its 21 truck yards with plans to accelerate deployment to most properties over the summer. Parking has traditionally been an inefficient and frustrating part of fleet operations and truck driving. Finding yards along key routes or near customer sites requires online research followed by phone calls and emails to determine space availability, amenities, and rates. Choosing a yard is often a leap of faith, trusting in the operator’s claims of security and quality standards rather than verifiable information. Access control differs from yard to yard, creating check-in headaches and increasing turn times. Individual billing and overage policies require a patchwork of relationships with dozens of yards. And without any visibility into yard operations, fleets are often blind to the location and condition of their assets. “Many truck yards and terminals remain absent from the digital landscape, operating with manual processes for reservations, access control, and billing, unable to provide customers with visibility or reassurance into the status of their assets,” said Outpost CTO, Greg Akselrod. “By deploying a consistent technology platform, we’re improving the driver experience at each yard while providing fleets with a new way to remotely manage their assets at scale.” According to Outpost, its new technology platform is a direct response to these challenges, informed by the company’s experience as a truck yard owner and operator. The platform combines proprietary hardware, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, computer vision, video streaming, inventory management and analytics to give trucking companies a virtual network of their own terminals, connecting operations teams with their equipment and drivers while providing a level of control and visibility previously unattainable. In addition to enabling customers to find, book, and manage parking reservations at yards across the US, Outpost’s platform provides: Real-time inventory, showing the number of trucks, trailers and personal vehicles parked at each yard. Unique access codes for each location or driver, including one-time use for temporary access. Asset identification using AI with human verification to read license plates as well as USDOT, MC, tractor, and trailer numbers. Asset condition assessment using AI to identify visible damage to the tractor and trailer. Intrusion detection using AI to scan perimeter fencing for unusual activity. Live and on-demand video of every entrance and exit to confirm driver identification, equipment condition, and time of access. “Outpost is modernizing truck and trailer parking by using new, innovative technology,” said Vice President of Terminal Management at Werner Enterprises, Ryan Gass. “Our professional drivers appreciate the easy in and out experience, we get peace of mind in knowing that our customers’ cargo and equipment is secure, and the visibility we have of our assets is extremely convenient.” Starting July 11, Outpost customers can begin remotely managing and monitoring their fleets at select yards across the US. For more information, visit outpost.us/tech.

Van spot rates rise in latest report

Bruce Guthrie - July 10, 2024

Despite the holiday week, data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ended July 5 show how calendar shifts can affect spot market performance. That’s according to a press release issued earlier this week. Broker-posted spot rates for dry van and refrigerated van equipment rose during the holiday week – an unusual development for that week of the year, but the timing of the Independence Day holiday likely was a significant factor, according to the report. “Dry van and refrigerated rates usually fall sharply during week 27, but this year, most of the week was over before the holiday,” the release stated. “In most years, any pre-holiday rate strength occurs during week 26.” Previous years with rate gains during week 27 generally have been those in which July 4 was a Thursday or Friday. Refrigerated rates were especially robust with the largest increase for a week 27 since at least 2008 and the strongest year-over-year comparison for any week since February 2022. With the calendar distortion over, the seasonal expectation would be for a decline in rates during the current week. With load postings falling far more sharply than truck postings during the holiday week, the Market Demand Index fell to 54.3, which is the lowest level since December.

Ryder names 3 drivers of the year

Erica N. Guy - July 10, 2024

MIAMI — Ryder System, Inc. recently named the winners of its “Driver of the Year” award. The awards recognize the top professional truck drivers from its three business units. Those three Ryder professional drivers were inducted into the Ryder “Driver Hall of Fame” – Darryl Tolle, based out of Georgetown, Kentucky; Anslum Hudlin, based out of Waco, Texas; and Richard Landry, based out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Together, they boast a combined experience of 122 years and have collectively driven nearly 11.3 million miles. The “Driver of the Year” honor is one of Ryder’s oldest and most prestigious awards programs, celebrating 52 years of recognition. Winners are chosen through a rigorous review process conducted by a committee of Ryder executives, safety experts, and professional drivers. This year’s three standouts demonstrated exemplary safety, performance, and customer service throughout their careers. “It’s an honor to have such exceptional individuals like Darryl and Anslum on the Ryder team, as well as Richard on our customer’s team, as some of the best drivers in the industry,” says Robert Sanchez, chairman and chief executive officer of Ryder. “These honorees embody the core values of our company in both their professional and personal lives.” Darryl Tolle received Ryder’s Supply Chain Solutions’ “Driver of the Year” award. With over 41 years of experience behind the wheel, Tolle has driven 3.5 million miles and 2.8 million miles during his 35-year tenure with Ryder. As a retired Kentucky Army National Guard Sergeant First Class with 32 years of service, Tolle has a distinguished military record, including natural disaster response, chemical security force protection, and clearing IEDs in Afghanistan. Anslum Hudlin won for Ryder’s Dedicated Transportation Solutions, where drivers operate specialized equipment, oversee unique product handling, navigate complex routes, and meet stringent customer service requirements. With nearly 3.8 million miles on the road, including almost 600,000 miles during his eight years with Ryder, Hudlin has had a remarkable 43-year driving career. Before joining Ryder, he served in the U.S. Army as a senior heavy-vehicle operator for seven years. Beyond his professional life, Hudlin is deeply involved in his community. Hudlin is married with two children, and he and his wife have fostered more than 70 children. He also serves as a deacon and youth director at his church, organizes fundraisers and a prom for disadvantaged students at his local high school, and coaches Little League football. Richard Landry won Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions “Customer Driver of the Year” award. With 4 million miles on the road over his 38-year driving career, Landry has demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill. Landry also has the distinction of being the first ever Canada-based FMS Customer Driver of the Year. Landry’s commitment to safety has saved lives on the road. He was first on the scene of an accident where he rescued a mother and baby from a rolled-over car leaking fuel. In another incident, Landry helped pull a family out of an SUV that rolled over after losing control. Landry proceeded to call 911 and waited with the family until help arrived.

Drivers roll in to the Iowa 80 to celebrate 45th anniversary Truckers Jamboree

Linda Garner-Bunch - July 9, 2024

WALCOTT, Iowa — Drivers are already rolling in to the Iowa 80 truck stop for the 2024 Walcott Truckers Jamboree. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the annual Jamboree — as well as the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Iowa 80. The three-day event kicks off at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 11, at the truck stop, located at exit 284 of Interstate 80, and will wrap up Saturday afternoon, July 13, with an awards ceremony. “This is a place where we celebrate all things trucking — from the dedicated drivers who make our economy hum, to the pork chop dinners that reflect our love and dedication to the state of Iowa, to the beautiful antique trucks that thrill and delight,” said Delia Moon Meier, senior vice president of the Iowa 80 Group and daughter of Iowa 80 founder Bill Moon. Ever since Iowa 80 founder Bill Moon hosted the first Truckers Jamboree back in 1979, professional drivers and their families have flocked to “the world’s largest truck stop” to take part in the festivities. During the Jamboree, drivers and other attendees are treated to an antique truck display, live music, a pork chop cookout, a Super Truck Beauty Contest, over 175 exhibits and more. This year’s musical guests include Royale Lynn, Matt Stell, Shane Profitt, BlackHawk and the Dani Lynn Howe Band. Other popular features include the Trucker Olympics, open to anyone with a valid CDL, and the Trucker’s Best Friend Pet Contest. Of course, the Super Truck Beauty Contest is always jam-packed with gorgeous rigs! At the close of the Jamboree, nearly 100 trophies will be awarded in 33 different categories. On Friday, attendees are invited to the Iowa 80’s 60th anniversary party in the Super Truck Showroom. Stop in for a piece of cake, a cool beverage and a break from the heat! Admission and parking for the event, including all of the concerts, is free, and the public is encouraged to come out and take part in the fun. Shuttles will be provided between the parking area and the event grounds. For more information, including a full schedule of events, click here.

Independence Day holiday and threat of Hurricane Beryl impact freight movements

Dana Guthrie - July 9, 2024

BEAVERTON, Ore. — With the Independence Day holiday and the remnants of now Tropical Storm Beryl on a path expected to make its way through Texas, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and beyond, the number of loads and trucks on DAT fell sharply. “Hurricane Beryl made landfall near Matagorda, Texas, about 85 miles south-southwest of Houston, packing maximum sustained winds of 80 mph,” said DAT Principal Analyst, Dean Croke. “Truckload capacity tightened in Gulf Coast markets, especially for van and flatbed freight. According to Croke, import volumes at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are expected to increase 45% year-over-year (y/y) in the second week of July as shippers pull forward holiday season inventory ahead of possible East Coast labor action by the International Longshoreman Association (ILA). “Key outbound lanes include Stockton and Phoenix, where loads moved are already up 45% and 28% month-over-month (m/m), respectively,” Croke said. “On the same lanes, spot rates are up 3.5% and 4.5% m/m, respectively.” Load posts on DAT One fell 48% during the July 4 holiday week according to spot market data for June 30-July 6, 2024 (Week 27). The number of loads posted on DAT One dropped 48% to 1.26 million last week, while the number of trucks posted fell 21% to 262,943. Last week included the July 4 holiday, which many businesses took off as a four-day weekend. The holiday suppressed volumes compared to the prior week, one of the busiest on the freight calendar, with 2.4 million loads posted. Dry Vans ▼ Van loads: 618,011, down 49.9% week over week ▼ Van equipment: 172,876, down 21.9% ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 3.6, down from 5.7 — Linehaul rate: $1.70 net fuel, unchanged week over week Reefers ▼ Reefer loads: 317,301, down 42.6% week over week ▼ Reefer equipment: 54,335, down 15.4% ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 5.8, down from 8.7 ▲ Linehaul rate: $2.04 net fuel, up 1 cent Flatbeds ▼ Flatbed loads: 326,464, down 49.2% week over week ▼ Flatbed equipment: 35,732, down 25.9% ▼ Load-to-truck ratio: 9.1, down from 13.7 ▼ Linehaul rate: $2.05 net fuel, down 3 cents

Access to industry data and insights is key to success for business owners

Cliff Abbott - July 9, 2024

The trucking industry has experienced some wild fluctuations in the past four years. One of the most telling signs is the number of new carrier registrations reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. As those of us who have been in the industry for a while know, freight spot rates reached record highs in early 2022 — only to fall to current lows that make profitable operation nearly impossible. When freight rates are high, running profitably is much easier. Because of this, the number of registered carriers leapt upward in 2022 as drivers bought trucks and registered for their own operating authority. In 2020, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported 291,705 registered carriers. That number climbed 27.2% in 2021 as more than 79,000 new carriers were registered. The following year saw another increase that tapered off in the second half as another 21,021 carriers were registered. Predictably, as freight rates plummeted in 2022, authority revocations rose. The smaller increase in 2022 turned into a decline of 6.3% in 2023 as more than 24,600 carriers left the business. So far in 2024, another 7,500 carriers are gone as of the end of May, a further decrease of 2%. Knowledge is power. If you’re considering starting (or ending) your own trucking company, would this type of information help you make better decisions? While you can always turn to quality media outlets like The Trucker for information, the fact is that statistics like this are available to you any time. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website offers Analysis & Information Online. Scrolling down the page, you can select “Registration Statistics Custom Reports” and simply pick the parameters you want to look up. Many larger carriers use this type of information in planning their operating strategies for upcoming months and years. Some of those carriers also purchase subscriptions to reports from different analytical firms to get industry forecasts from some of the most knowledgeable people in the business. However, much of the information they receive is available to you, if you know where to look. Before you visit any website, however, here’s a tip: Look for the word “Blog.” Frequently, it’s found under the “Resources” tab. Many websites offer articles on all kinds of subjects related to your trucking business — at no charge. Some sites also offer free email subscriptions that can help keep you informed of news and upcoming changes. Where can I find this knowledge? There are many sources available to members of the trucking industry. For example, load boards often offer more than just loads. DAT Freight and Analytics runs the largest load board in the country; many small carriers use the board to obtain spot loads. But the company offers so much more information! An affordable subscription is required for some data, but the company publishes a weekly “Trendlines” report that highlights changes in freight rates, numbers of loads and trucks posted and more, with comparisons to the previous week, month and the same month of the prior year. National average spot rates are provided, and the data can be broken down by region. If you are a user of DAT’s load board, additional data is available to you, and you can access even more through subscription. DAT’s blog section has some great articles on starting and running a trucking business. Truckstop.com has an excellent array of information offerings that available with just a click — including their own blog section with an outstanding selection of articles on topics ranging from new rules and regulations to tried and true business principles. There are also webinars and podcasts available. ATBS offers tax and accounting services as well as trucking business consulting and more. Their “Knowledge Hub” is chock full of blog entries offering advice on a variety of industry issues, in addition to free tools for calculating your tax deductions and per diem, and even how to obtain your own authority. You’ll find educational videos and inexpensive materials and courses you can purchase. Larger carriers often use the services of industry forecasters to help them prepare for changes in the economy or the industry. These forecasters often publish blogs that contain information that could be valuable to your trucking business. The most detailed information is usually reserved for paid subscribers, but you can identify industry trends and potential problems with the free information provided. ACT Research publishes multiple blog postings each month dealing with truck and trailer sales statistics, freight rate trends and more. Like other providers of analytics, the most detailed information is reserved for subscribers, but a lot of information on trends in the industry is available for the reading. Cass Information Systems offers a variety of carrier services, but their free “Cass Transportation Indexes” provide a monthly overview of trucking industry trends. Each month, the Cass report compares shipment numbers and expenses with the prior month, a year ago and two years ago. The report offers freight expectations for the coming months as well. You can access the report from their website or sign up to have it emailed to you each month. FTR Transportation Intelligence is another such resource that teams with Truckstop.com to offer a complimentary weekly update on the spot freight market. A free email subscription is available, and a free weekly podcast updating multiple industry topics is also available on their website or through multiple music apps. The federal government also provides numerous resources. Federal agencies like the USDOT, FMCSA, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and more than 400 other agencies are required by law to post proposed policy changes, new rules and other information in the Federal Register. By clicking on “My FR,” you can sign up for a subscription that will provide you with a daily update of new items. You’ll be among the first to know about proposed rule changes or new regulations that impact your business. These resources and others are easily available online and most offer subscriptions that put their latest reports in your inbox as they are released. Managing your trucking business isn’t easy, but you don’t have to be a large carrier or have big carrier resources to stay informed. And, of course, us folks at The Trucker always do our best to keep you up to date on the latest industry news and information.

Diesel fuel prices continue to rise

Bruce Guthrie - July 8, 2024

Diesel prices continue to rise for the third straight week. According to data released on Monday by the Petroleum Administration for Defense District, the overall national average price per gallon for diesel went up more than five cents to $3.865 per gallon. The sharpest increase was in the midwest where prices went from $3.729 to $3.803. Two weeks ago the midwest average price stood at $3.662 meaning prices have spiked in the region by nearly 14 cents per gallon in just two weeks. The second largest increase came on the east coast where prices rose from $3.898 to $3.934. The only region of the country that reported any decline was the west coast minus California where the price dipped only slightly from $4.039 to $4.018. California’s prices rose by four cents from $4.915 to $4.955.

Grand Champions announced for Arkansas Trucking Championship

Dana Guthrie - July 8, 2024

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Arkansas Trucking Association has awarded nine professional truck drivers and two technicians with top prizes at the 2024 Arkansas Trucking Championship. “The drivers and technicians who compete in these events represent the best elements of our industry—professionalism, incredible skill and commitment to safety every day they are on the roads or in the shops to ensure that trucks continue serving Arkansas communities,” said Shannon Newton, president of the Arkansas Trucking Association. “This competition rewards the best performance during this one weekend, and the men and women who move our freight and demonstrate their skills in the spotlight deserve our appreciation,” she continued. “We celebrate the thousands of professionals who bring their best to the job every day of the year.” The drivers and technicians make up the 11-person Team Arkansas and will represent the state at the national competitions. The written and hands-on competitions brought together 142 of the best drivers and 37 of the top technicians in the state for a demonstration of safety knowledge and skill. Hosted by the Arkansas Trucking Association, the championship was held June 28-29 at the Rogers Convention Center in Rogers, Arkansas. Over the two-day event, drivers tested their skills in a pre-trip inspection competition, written exam and hands-on obstacle course. The driving skills portion was the biggest event, attracting hundreds of cheering friends, family, colleagues and spectators. To qualify for the truck driving championship, contestants must be accident free for the past year. The following professional truck drivers will represent Arkansas in their respective classes at the National Truck Driving Competition, to be held Aug. 21-24 in Columbus, Ohio. 2024 Arkansas Truck Driving Championship Grand Champion and 5 Axle Class Winner: Bret McBain (Bella Vista) of Walmart Transportation. 3 Axle: Loren Hatfield (Maumelle) of ABF Freight. 4 Axle: Chaunce Umfleet (Lonoke) of FedEx. Flatbed: Larry Rhein (Harrison) of FedEx. Sleeper: Tom Merrill (Clinton) of Walmart Transportation. Step Van: Bradley McKay (Cave Springs) of FedEx. Straight Truck: Albert Mullen (Kimberling City, Missouri) of Walmart Transportation. Tank: Randy Lovell (Benton) of Walmart Transportation. Twins: Jeff Cochran (Texarkana) of FedEx. Technicians competed in two tracks: truck and trailer. Jordan Burris of Tyson Foods was named the Trailer Technician Grand Champion. Burris took home first place trophies in two of nine stations. On the truck technician track, Benjamin Kirtley of J.B. Hunt Transport was crowned the Truck Technician Grand Champion. Kirtley was the top finisher in three of 14 stations and was named Rookie of the Year across both the Truck and Trailer tracks. In September, Kirtley and Burris will head to the National Technician Skills Competition, SuperTech 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. “Our cohort of competitors included men and women who have competed dozens of times and those who took on the challenge for the first time,” Newton said. “The spirit of this event is that as drivers and technicians demonstrate their knowledge and skills, they take pride in their careers and feel valued. We hope they hear our applause, walk the red carpet and recognize how much our industry respects this work because our state, nation and economy depend on it. I look forward to cheering on Bret, Benjamin, Jordan and the rest of Team Arkansas at their national competitions.” The following companies have made substantial financial contributions in support of our industry’s technicians and drivers: ABF Freight, DB Schenker, FedEx, Frito Lay Transportation, Great West Casualty Co., J.B. Hunt Transport, MHC, Rush Truck Centers, Stallion Transportation Group, Tyson Foods, Utility Tri-State, W&B Service Co., Walmart Transportation and Destination Rogers.

CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week is this week

Bruce Guthrie - July 7, 2024

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance has declared July 7-13 as the dates for this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week, which is a safe-driving enforcement and outreach initiative aimed at improving driving behaviors through educational and traffic-enforcement strategies and driver interactions with law enforcement. Throughout Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement personnel in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. will be on the lookout for commercial motor vehicle drivers and passenger vehicle drivers engaging in unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding, distracted driving, following too closely, drunk or drugged driving, etc. Drivers engaging in such behaviors will be pulled over by law enforcement and may be issued a warning or citation.According to a release, the focus area for this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week is reckless, careless or dangerous driving. Any person who drives a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is driving recklessly. Careless/dangerous driving is defined as operating a vehicle without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other motorists or people on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, effective, high-visibility communications and outreach are essential parts of successful transportation safety programs. However, communications and outreach programs are unlikely to have an effect unless they are tied to vigorous enforcement. Operation Safe Driver Week aims to improve the safety of our roadways through proactive driver safety outreach and education, and by addressing unsafe driving behaviors through responsive traffic enforcement when drivers are identified engaging in dangerous driving behaviors on our roadways. Operation Safe Driver Week is part of CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Program. The program offers resources for teen and new drivers and commercial motor vehicle drivers, along with safe-driving public service announcement videos, which are available for download and distribution. CVSA is also offering Operation Safe Driver Week postcards at no cost to its industry and enforcement members. The postcards are available in English, French and Spanish. State, provincial, territorial and local law enforcement jurisdictions; the motor carrier industry; the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; Transport Canada; and Mexico’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation are all working together toward the same goal of reducing crashes, injuries and fatalities on North America’s roadways.

Challenger Motor Freight wins fleet safety, best fleet to drive for awards

Dana Guthrie - July 5, 2024

CAMBRIDGE, Ont. — As part of the Fastfrate Group, Challenger Motor Freight, one of North America’s largest privately owned logistics and transportation companies, has been named as 2024 Best Fleets to Drive For award in the Large Carrier division. This is the second win for Challenger in the Overall category (2022), and the sixth consecutive year the freighter has been named to the Top 20 Best Fleets to Drive For list. Challenger has also won the 2023 Truckload Carriers Association Annual Fleet Safety Award. TCA’s Fleet Safety Award recognizes North American transportation companies that have shown an exceptional commitment to safety. Companies are recognized in six mileage-based divisions and are awarded based on the lowest annual accident frequency ratio per million miles. Challenger won 1st place in Division V. Challenger Motor Freight has a staff of over 2,000 people, with a fleet of about 1,500 trucks and 3,300 trailers. Since its inception in 1975, they have become one of the largest privately owned truckload carriers in Canada. Challenger has also been recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2007.Challenger Motor Freight has earned accolades for its exceptional service over the years, including six consecutive Top Fleet Employer awards from Trucking HR Canada. In addition to its headquarters in Cambridge, Challenger Motor Freight has facilities in Montreal, Toronto, London, Mississauga, Vancouver, Detroit, Chicago and Long Beach.

HEROES FOR HIRE: Military veterans bring valuable skills to jobs in the civilian sector

Kris Rutherford - July 5, 2024

Since the Class B Standardized Military Truck, also known as the “Liberty Truck,” debuted at the start of World War I, skilled operators have been needed for military operations. As trucks improved during and after the war, they became vehicles society relied on for the rapid advent of new technologies and transportation systems. In fact, at the time, the military offered some of the best training available for operators of heavy vehicles. It’s likely no surprise that, as the war came to an end and soldiers returned home to their families and civilian life, many veterans found employment as drivers, navigating delivery trucks through city streets and along the nation’s highways. Today, the various branches of the U.S. military operate more than 170,000 non-combat trucks in dozens of models. Each of these trucks has one thing in common: There is a skilled driver behind the wheel. It is for this reason that many commercial motor carriers so highly prize drivers who have served in the military. When reviewing applications from military veterans, carrier recruiters should consider the valuable skills, characteristics and personality traits that are typical of service members and carefully evaluate each candidate. At the same time, it is also important that human resources professionals set aside any preconceived stereotypes surrounding the term “veteran.” The fact is, despite veterans’ service to their country, it is commonly believed that most carry “baggage” because of their experiences, especially those who have seen active combat. However, the truth is that every potential driver, whether civilian or military, has challenges and issues to overcome. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not limited to soldiers and law enforcement officers. See beyond the surface. It’s the HR professional’s job to see through those challenges and find the quality employee within. Earlier this year, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) presented a webinar on the topic, “The Veteran Among Us.” In the webinar, panelists discussed the challenges and opportunities veterans have when leaving the military and finding jobs in the civilian sector. One staggering statistic noted is that, upon discharge, 86% of those leaving the military service do not know what they want to do career-wise. That’s a huge pool of talent just waiting to be guided along the best path. When employers learn the intangible and transferable skills the typical veteran possesses, they often realize those qualities make former service members ideal job candidates for motor carriers and other transportation-oriented businesses. In the end, it is up to trucking industry recruiters to recognize those skills and help transitioning soldiers embark on successful careers. Change is never easy. This is a truth for the workforce in general, but it can be especially true when recruiting veterans. Many veterans emerge from the military with unique challenges. Some walk out the gate into civilian life with no home to go to. Some face daunting financial issues. And some are dealing with substance abuse. Whether a former service member is struggling with such challenges or not, an employer can play an important role in helping a veteran conquer what can be a difficult transition to a civilian career. One of the best ways to take advantage of a veteran’s unique skillset is by placing them in a recruiting role, working to help other service members step into a successful career. Veterans know veterans best, and they know what motivates them. One in four veterans is currently employed in the transportation and logistics industry. Why do former military personnel often find trucking so appealing? First, the industry is an excellent example of civilian employers taking advantage of transferable skills. Just as the periods following World Wars I and II were marked by a stream of motor pool operators entering civilian life, the same holds true with the military today. Intangible, transferable, skills possessed in abundance by veterans are just waiting to be retargeted in the trucking industry. It’s up to HR leaders to be prepared — to have programs already in place that attract veterans and to offer attractive benefits. Look for transferable skills. The transferable skills possessed by former service members are varied, and they are attractive to employers in all sectors. First, consider the intangibles. Veterans typically possess empathy and critical thinking skills, and they are adept at decision making, even under pressure. When it comes to work ethic, teamwork, leadership, mental toughness and ability to adapt to various situations, it’s can be hard to find job candidates as well-qualified as veterans. In fact, studies show that more than 75% of veterans exhibit each of these traits upon exiting the military. One of the issues facing recruiters when reviewing veteran’s resumes is the way the skills are listed and how they transfer to the civilian job description. Typically, recruiters find that veteran’s resumes focus on teamwork, how they fit into a team environment, their role within a team, and their importance to team success. What veterans don’t realize is that in the civilian workforce, while being able to work within a team is important, it is not the same as the military. Recruiters are looking at resumes of specific candidates who will fill specific roles. They want to know the candidates on an individual level. It is important that veterans realize the employer is interested in the skills that represent the individual. Look at the individual. Viewing a veteran as an individual rather than a stereotype is especially important in the transportation sector. Consider truck drivers. They most often work alone, sometimes in the overnight hours when the world around them is asleep. It can be a lonely career. It is important that motor carriers implement ways to interact with truck drivers aside from just seeing them in the office once a week. They must monitor the mental health of all employees who are living and working alone — whether they are military veterans or lifelong civilians. Leading companies implement mental health services into their HR departments. This has been especially important since the COVID-19 pandemic, and employers have heeded the call. Coming out of the pandemic, only 30% to 40% of companies in any sector offered mental health services. Today that number has increased to 90%, a testament to the ability of corporate America to react to changing times and worker needs. Create a set of best practices. The overriding need in the transportation industry is a set of best practices for recruiting military veterans. Such practices should include guidelines and expectations, personal and professional development opportunities, and mentoring programs (preferably with a veteran-veteran relationship). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recognizes the value of bringing skilled veterans into the trucking industry. To help streamline the transition from the military to trucking, FMCSA is implementing programs allowing veterans to skip the written and/or skills tests to earn a CDL — provided a set of specific requirements is met. Likewise, the agency continues to experiment with allowing veterans under age 21 to drive interstate routes. Ultimately, the success or failure of a carrier’s veteran recruitment effort is based on support from company leadership. When CEOs prioritize recruiting and retaining military veterans, they hire HR employees with dedication and determination to implement veteran recruitment programs. Working together, the industry can pave the way for a new wave of veterans to drive a new breed of “Liberty Truck” across North America.

Jenson named as DMC Insurance Driver of the Year

Dana Guthrie - July 3, 2024

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — DMC Insurance has named Rob Jensen of Fremont Contract Carriers, Inc., as the 2024 DMC Driver of the Year. “Rob is an excellent driver in all aspects,” said VP of Safety for Fremont Contract Carriers, Trey Novotny. “He is safety conscious, professional, timely and a mentor to new employees. His continual dedication to maintaining safe roadways is evident over his long tenure with Fremont Contract Carriers.” According to DMC, the award is presented annually to identify and celebrate the best-in-class drivers of DMC’s customers. The judging committee scores nominees based on their driving record, leadership within their organization and service to their community and the trucking industry. Jensen was unanimously selected as the winning driver by a committee comprised of trucking industry experts. The award and accompanying prize package will be presented to him during an appreciation event that DMC and FCC will hold to honor Jensen. Representatives from DMC Insurance, along with Jensen’s fellow drivers and staff, will be invited to attend to recognize Jensen and celebrate his achievements. “While all the candidates were impressive, Rob’s long history of safe driving and mentorship to new drivers set him apart,” said DMC. “He has been a professional driver for over 40 years and accumulated more than five million accident-free miles, four million of those miles being driven during his long tenure with Fremont Contract Carriers. Rob’s focus on professionalism and safety is evident through his six victories in the Nebraska State Truck Driving Championships, 23 years of recognition awards from the Nebraska Presidential Safe Driving Club, and 27 years as an ATA Safe Driver Club award winner.” Jensen and his wife Annett, also a professional driver, have devoted decades to helping other FCC drivers prepare and train to compete in the NE State Truck Driving Championships, a competition that promotes friendly competition, skill and safety tests and remarkable vehicle control. He has also completed the peddle run for the charitable organization Wreaths Across America three times. His focus on safety and ongoing support of the trucking industry represents precisely the type of candidate DMC aims to honor through this award. “We were extremely impressed with the caliber of drivers that were nominated by our insureds,” said DMC. “Each and every one deserves recognition for their hard work, safe driving, and commitment to the trucking industry. Thank you to all nominators who took the time to submit a candidate and share their stories.”

Group frustrated by FMCSA’s reluctance to allow hair testing results in Clearinghouse

Cliff Abbott - July 3, 2024

As pretty much anyone in the trucking industry would agree, it’s important to ensure commercial drivers are alert and prepared to react quickly to changing conditions. Keeping drivers with a record of operating under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances off the road is a logical precaution. The creation and implementation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse marked a major step forward in ensuring positive tests for controlled substances are recorded and available to carriers as a part of the background check on potential company drivers and independent contractors. In addition, the Clearinghouse provides regular updates that include nationwide statistics on drug and alcohol testing. As of March 2024, Clearinghouse statistics show that 239,929 drivers have at least one violation on their record. Out of those drivers, only 74,060 (30.9%) have completed the return-to-duty (RTD) process. In fact, the majority of those nearly 240,000 drivers — 126,000, or 52.5% — never even began the RTD process. Whether drivers placed out of service for substance violations complete the RTD process or choose to leave the industry, there’s little doubt that the Clearinghouse rules are helping get drug users out from behind the wheel of commercial vehicles. The statistics show the program is having an impact. Because of this proven success, members of the Trucking Alliance, a group of some of the largest and safest carriers in North America, say they’re frustrated with the government’s apparent unwillingness to consider a set of significant statistics submitted in a request to change the rules for controlled substance testing to allow testing of hair samples. The group, which represents carriers running more than 70,000 trucks, is pushing for the inclusion of hair testing as an approved method of FMCSA controlled substance testing and asking that results be included in the Clearinghouse. Trucking Alliance members have been utilizing hair testing, in addition to the approved urine testing, for pre-employment and random drug tests for years. In June 2023, the Alliance released a statement outlining statistics supporting the use of hair testing, as revealed by a study conducted at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA). The study, which analyzed both urine and hair testing results from nearly 1 million commercial drivers taken between 2017 and 2022, showed that hair testing produced nine times as many positive results as urine testing. “I don’t see how anyone can reasonably argue with these drug test results, given the large disparity in positivity rates between hair and urine testing for every drug and a sample of almost 1 million drug tests,” said Dr. Doug Voss, one of the UCA researchers, in the release. “At some point it’s like arguing whether the sun will rise tomorrow.” The Alliance had used similar statistics in an application for an exemption to FMCSA regulations requiring urine testing, asking that they be allowed to use hair testing instead of urine for 50% of the tests, pointing to a higher accuracy rate and increased public safety. The FMCSA denied the group’s petition in December 2022. Among the reasons FMCSA cited for the rejection was that the agency had not received guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on a process for conducting hair testing. That guidance from HHS was mandated in the Fix America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act passed in December 2015. So, what’s the holdup? “The hair drug testing HHS guidelines were sent to the White House April 3, 2023. So, we’re a year, a year and a month with nothing,” said Rob Moseley, attorney for the Moseley Marcinak Law Group, which represents the Alliance. The group recently filed a petition to the HHS demanding that the agency issue long-overdue guidelines. “Every day we don’t do this is another day that we’re sticking our head in the sand while habitual lifestyle drug users are using drugs and driving trucks,” Moseley said. He points to the current administration’s support for unions as one possible reason the HHS hair testing guidelines have stalled. “I think it’s politics,” he said — but he’s not optimistic a change of White House occupants would make a difference. “Trump was anti-regulation, so I’m not sure that makes a (difference),” he said. Part of Moseley’s frustration is that hair testing is already making a positive difference for the carriers that are using the method. “They’re still doing the hair testing and using that data in their hiring decisions, but of course, there are roadblocks to sharing that information with other carriers or with anybody else for that matter,” he explained. Moseley notes that carriers don’t need regulatory approval to use hair testing — but it must be used in addition to Department of Transportation-controlled substance testing, not as a replacement. Alliance members “have to go through the double expense of doing both tests now,” he said. “They’ve made that decision that they’re gonna spend the money because of the safety benefits. But what’s going on is that (drivers with a positive hair-testing result are) just going down the road to get another job somewhere else, and nobody will ever know they failed a drug screen.” The latest petition, sent to HHS on April 22, 2024, points out that hair testing is more reliable than urinalysis because it captures a larger window of time for drug use. Generally, hair testing detects drug use within the past 90 days, where urinalysis can detect only a few days (or, for marijuana, weeks). The petition also points out that urine testing is often unobserved, making it easier for subjects to adulterate or substitute the sample submitted. Included in the petition was mention of a 2007 publication by the Government Accounting Office that studied 24 collection sites under DOT protocols and found that, at all 24 locations, undercover investigators were able to use false identification to be tested under another person’s name. The flip side, the petition states, is that 100% of hair specimen collections are observed, minimizing the potential for deception. Carriers may recall that oral fluid testing was approved by both HHS and DOT for controlled substance testing but was put on hold until two approved laboratories for specimen testing were identified. That hasn’t happened yet, either. In the meantime, thousands of positive hair sample drug tests are being ignored by FMCSA — while thousands more drug users remain behind the wheel due to an inefficient testing system, according to the Alliance. Moseley is waiting for the petition to be published in the Federal Register, opening up the possibility of public comment. “Those guidelines can be finalized,” he said. “That should clear the way for allowing the carriers to be able to do this to increase safety on the roads.”

Refrigerated spot rates dip in an otherwise strong week

Bruce Guthrie - July 2, 2024

Refrigerated spot rates took an unexpected downturn last week. A release issued showing data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ended June 28 show broker-posted spot rates for van equipment – especially refrigerated – underperforming seasonal expectations. Refrigerated spot rates declined slightly in a week that typically sees one of the largest increases of the year, rising more than 12 cents on average from 2014 through 2023, according to the release. The week-over-week increase in dry van spot rates was also weaker than usual, but refrigerated rates have not decreased during that week of the year since 2012. “On the other hand, the Independence Day holiday falls late in the current week, so it is possible that spot rates will hold up better than usual,” the release stated. “The average decrease in refrigerated rates during the current week of the year is nearly 15 cents. Also, refrigerated rates outperformed expectations during the week ending June 21, so refrigerated rates might end up on par with or stronger than last year. Flatbed rates declined in the latest week but were only about 1% below the same 2023 week, which is the strongest y/y comparison since July 2022, when rates were positive year after year.” Although spot rates for van equipment have been lackluster at best, according to the release, another metric indicates a tighter market. The total Market Demand Index of 80.1 was the highest in three weeks. However, the MDI for dry van equipment was the strongest since January 2023, while the refrigerated MDI was also the strongest since January 2023, except for the third week of this year due to the weather disruption.

FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index improved again in April to a reading of 3.0

Dana Guthrie - July 2, 2024

Bloomington, IN — FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index for April improved from March to a reading of 3.0 as all index components were at least slightly favorable. Freight rates were the principal factor in better market conditions for shippers. Although market conditions might remain strong for a few more months, FTR forecasts some deterioration soon with the SCI falling to more neutral readings in the months ahead. “Freight rates in April were as favorable for shippers as they have been over the past year, but that climate likely will deteriorate modestly soon as capacity utilization has already begun to tighten a bit,” said FTR’s vice president of trucking, Avery Vise. “However, aside from unpredictable swings in fuel costs, we do not forecast negative SCI readings over the next couple of years that come close to matching the scope of positive readings recorded from mid-2022 through the end of 2023. Much can happen to change the situation, of course, but the freight market is shaping up to be much more balanced between shippers and carriers in 2025.” The June FTR’s Shippers Update, published June 7, provides a detailed analysis of the factors affecting the April Shippers Conditions Index and provides the forecast for this index through April 2025. Additional commentary in the June issue analyzes the lingering excess trucking capacity among both small and larger carriers. The Shippers Conditions Index tracks the changes representing four major conditions in the U.S. full-load freight market. These conditions include freight demand, freight rates, fleet capacity and fuel price. The individual metrics are combined into a single index that tracks the market conditions that influence the shippers’ freight transport environment. A positive score represents good, optimistic conditions. A negative score represents bad, pessimistic conditions. The index tells you the industry’s health at a glance.

MODE Global teams up with Trucker Tools to elevate freight tracking and visibility

Dana Guthrie - July 2, 2024

DALLAS, Texas — MODE Global, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) firm, has announced a strategic partnership with Trucker Tools, a top-tier provider of freight-tracking solutions. According to MODE, the alliance was created to redefine the standards of efficiency and visibility in Over The Road (OTR) ground freight tracking. “This partnership demonstrates MODE Global’s commitment to adopting the best solutions across all modes of transportation,” MODE said in a press release. “By partnering with Trucker Tools, MODE aims to streamline its vendor base and provide shippers with accurate, real-time tracking data, regardless of the platform used.” The strategic initiative is part of MODE’s mission to deliver a top-tier logistics ecosystem that consistently surpasses customer expectations. MODE believes that Trucker Tools’ tracking technology provides carriers with unparalleled ease of use, seamless document uploading and an intuitive user interface. “These features align perfectly with MODE Global’s high service standards and dedication to innovation,” the release said. “Trucker Tools’ dual tracking capability via Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) and mobile app ensures that MODE consistently meets and exceeds shipper visibility standards, offering unrivaled transparency and reliability in freight tracking.” Gene Welsh, Chief Transportation Officer of MODE Global, is enthusiastic about the partnership. “Our collaboration with Trucker Tools reinforces our commitment to providing our customers with the most advanced, user-friendly solutions on the market,” Welsh said. “This partnership will enhance our operational efficiencies and elevate our service offerings, ensuring we continue to lead the logistics industry.” Kary Jablonski, Chief Executive Officer of Trucker Tools, echoed Welsh. “We are excited to work with MODE Global, a company that shares our vision for innovation and excellence in the logistics industry,” Jablonski said. “Our partnership will enable MODE to offer even more accurate and reliable tracking services to their customers.” The partnership between MODE Global and Trucker Tools has been created to deliver substantial benefits to carriers and shippers alike. By leveraging Trucker Tools’ state-of-the-art tracking, MODE can streamline its operations, minimize inefficiencies and enhance the overall customer experience. Shippers will benefit from real-time visibility into their shipments, ensuring timely deliveries and increased satisfaction. The partnership also underscores both companies’ dedication to innovation and continuous improvement.

Florida logistics company continues government partnership

Bruce Guthrie - July 2, 2024

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Florida logistics company announced its continued partnership with the U.S. Government. Crowley issued a recent press release that announced the award by U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) of a $ 2.3 billion, seven-year contract to continue serving the military’s transportation and logistics needs under the Defense Freight Transportation Services program. The company was awarded the original Defense Freight Transportation Services (DFTS I) contract in 2017. One of the largest logistics contracts under the federal government, DFTS encompasses all forms of surface transportation throughout the continental U.S., Alaska and Canada, including less than truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), expedited, time definite and rail services as well as cross-docking and warehousing. “There is no greater honor than to serve the logistics needs of our nation’s military service members with the trust of the U.S. Department of Defense. The lasting partnership built with USTRANSCOM is a privilege that the people at Crowley never take lightly as we ensure an efficient and effective supply chain for the military and other agencies’ needs,” said Ray Fitzgerald, Cowley’s Chief Operating Officer. “We are humbled and immensely proud to continue delivering this critical transportation service for America’s defense safely and reliably.” During its ongoing DFTS services, Crowley has received multiple high-performance ratings from USTRANSCOM and praise from the Defense Logistics Agency, and the company put in place technology solutions to maximize freight transportation efficiency and value. As it enters the new contract (DFTS II), Crowley will also continue to utilize small businesses and diverse suppliers that help drive investment and resiliency in communities coast to coast, exceeding $600 million in diverse small business contracting. Crowley grew its network of carriers and suppliers by over 500%, tripling the minimum capacity needed to effectively service 300,000 movements annually of critical equipment and supplies.

Independent contractor classification still murky under new DOL rule

Cliff Abbott - July 2, 2024

When California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the state’s Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) into law September 18, 2019, the trucking industry was quick to voice its objections to the legislation’s criteria for classifying workers as employees versus independent contractors (ICs). The conversation quickly moved to the question of what such guidelines might mean if applied on a national level. An industry that depends on IC relationships, with some carriers using ICs for their entire driver base, is certain to be wary when the government attempts to force costly and confusing changes. That’s why the final rule on the Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, issued by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) in January 2024, brought a sigh of relief to many. The ruling instituted an “Economic Reality Test” similar to one outlined in a 2021 Trump administration rule rather than following California’s “ABC” test to determine whether a worker should be classified as an employee or an IC. That relief, however, may be temporary. Bill Webb, executive director for the Coalition for Independent Truckers, is skeptical. “To me, it’s just another one of those deaths by 1000 cuts for the independent contractor model,” he said. He believes this year’s November election will be crucial in retaining the current model. “(The DOL rule) does clearly change from a true AB5 model to something a little muddier, but I truly believe that we’re not going to see much until the presidential election is over,” he continued. “If Biden is reelected, then they will double down and probably begin to aggressively go after carriers based on this new rule.” According to Webb, the industry is in a “wait-and-see” mode, at least for now. “That doesn’t impact what’s going on at the state level,” he noted. “AB5 was a direct assault on the independent contractor model. Most state legislatures are doing it indirectly.” Jon Coca, president of Diamond Transportation, a 100% owner-operator carrier, also sees politics as a factor. “(Democrats) pick up the pressure and they try to reclassify Independent Contractors and employees, just like every time the red guys get in office,” Coca said. “Just part of the game, I guess.” When Truckload Authority visited with Coca, he had just returned from a lobbying trip to Washington. By the end of 2019 — the year California passed AB5— nine other states introduced similar legislation. A December 2023 article published by personnel management firm Wrapbook claims that 36 states are now using AB5’s “ABC Test” (or parts of it) to determine worker classification. But the issue goes beyond legislatures, Webb says. “When I ran the Texas Trucking Association, the Attorney General’s Office passed a rule — not even a law — that said if a truck driver is an independent contractor and is in default on a child support agreement, you have to withhold pay from him just like you do an employee,” he shared. “That’s just another line that’s cracking.” As Webb pointed out, any state or federal agency that has the authority can issue rules blurring the line between employee and IC status. “Sometimes they realize they’re doing it; sometimes they don’t,” he said. Whatever direction current classification rules are shifted after this year’s national elections, a carrier’s best protection is in the Independent Contractor Operating Agreement (ICOA). “As long as companies like us have valid Independent Contractor agreements in place, it’s the best bet to buoy their role in how we work together as business partners,” Coca explained. “I feel safe — but not safe.” For Coca, part of feeling “safe” is making sure the company’s ICOA is up to date with any new developments. “We get our Independent Contractor agreement fine-tuned every two years at a minimum, three years at maximum at the Scopelitis (Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary) firm,” he explained. “We feel pretty sound that they do a good job making sure that all of the issues are addressed.” Webb, on the other hand, maintains that the way carriers treat ICs has much to do with how drivers are classified. “It’s a little bit of a stretch, but I used to ask carriers, ‘Who does your lawn service? Do you make them put your logos on their mowers? Do you tell them what time they have to be there to do the lawn?’” he shared. Exclusivity is an issue often mentioned in classification cases. In both the ABC test and the Economic Reality test, the nature and degree of control of the IC is listed. If the ICOA specifies the IC is not allowed to haul loads from another carrier or a broker, a ruling might lean towards the status of employee. “Work that is continuous, does not have a fixed ending date or may be the worker’s only work relationship indicates employee status,” says an Employee Relationship Under the Fair Labor Standards Act fact sheet issue May 20, 2024. “The problem is, the rules now are being articulated in a way that is almost impossible for a motor carrier to operate and comply with,” Webb said. “You’ve got to do as many of the things right as you can.” Forced dispatch — or even the appearance of it — can indicate control leading to an employee classification. “Motor carriers have got to be smarter and get away from forced dispatch,” Webb said. “Many of them will tell you they’re not forced dispatch, but in practice, to some extent they wind up being so.” Coca says Diamond Transportation has a simple way to avoid this conundrum. “We just don’t do forced dispatch,” he said. “Our fleet managers are reaching out to just say, ‘Hey, this load game comes up after you’re done. What do you think?’” ICs make their own decisions about which loads they want to accept, Coca says. While ICs may not enjoy forced dispatch, they often chose to lease their equipment to a carrier because of the stability that comes from receiving regular loads from one source. “If you want to choose loads from different sources, just be truly independent and go through a broker,” Coca suggested. Doing so, however, requires the IC to obtain their own authority. “That’s basically what they’re leasing us for.” Unfortunately, the wishes of the IC is often lost in the classification dispute. “They lease on to a company because they want that company to be able to provide great for them,” Coca said. David Heller, senior vice president of safety and government affairs for the Truckload Carriers Association, agrees. “Independent contractors are independent contractors because they want to be,” he noted. “And they’ve chosen this business model because it’s successful and works for them.” As the debate continues, the question of how much longer the IC business model will be around remains a prime concern. “I think we can all agree that this business model is under threat and that we as an industry need to try to preserve it,” Heller said. “There’s no doubt it’s a valuable model.”

15 finalists selected for the Relay Payments Haul of Fame contest

Bruce Guthrie - July 1, 2024

ATLANTA — The final 15 have been selected. Relay Payments is revealing the 15 finalists for its second annual Haul of Fame contest, which honors inspiring truck drivers and their contributions to the trucking industry. Public voting is now open for these 15 exceptional drivers at relaypayments.com/hauloffame. In August, drivers with the five highest votes will be reviewed by a celebrity judging panel, and two drivers will ultimately be selected as the 2024 Haul of Fame winners. According to a recent press release, the two winners will receive an array of prizes, including a trip to the NASCAR Race Weekend in Atlanta Sept. 6th-8th, ahead of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Relay Payments serves as a primary sponsor of NASCAR Cup Series driver William Byron and the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports team. Overall, more than 160 professional drivers were nominated, doubling the amount of nominations from last year. Nominees were recognized for their commitment to safety, willingness to help and mentor others, and for going above and beyond for customers. Collectively, the 15 Haul of Fame finalists account for 394 years of truck driving experience, with millions of miles of service and countless goods delivered to every area of the country. In the United States, 80 percent of all goods are transported by truck drivers at some point. The 2024 Haul of Fame finalists were named along with their level of exerience. They include: Cholonda Allen, 5 years David Blankenship, 40 years Bruce Bryant, 38 years Fidel Herrera, 24 years Nic Hurtado, 5 years Deb Labree, 18 years Bobby Land, 34 years Roger Mackbach, 24 years Dario Morton, 24 years Jason Neymeiyer, 20 years Kirk Phillips, 43 years Michael Smith, 35 years Sydney Thomas, 4 years Joe Unverzagt, 30 years Kevin Worley, 50 years “Our country’s truckers literally drive the American economy every single day. They spend countless hours on the road, away from their families and dealing with traffic, weather, and multiple frustrations. Truck driving is tough work, and we launched the Haul of Fame contest to bring attention to their critical role,” said Relay’s CEO Ryan Droege. “This year’s nominees are all incredible, and the 15 finalists are truly remarkable individuals who deserve recognition.” Public voting for the 15 finalists will remain open through July 31st, 2024. At that time, the Top Five vote-getters will be evaluated by a celebrity judging panel with the extraordinarily difficult job of selecting the two winners. The 2024 celebrity judges include: NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon, four-time NASCAR Series Cup champion and current vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports Timothy Dooner, the award-winning podcaster who hosts and produces FreightWaves’ WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Clarissa Rankin, one of the most well-known female truck drivers, CDL school owner and TikTok influencer with 1.8 million followers who advocates for women in trucking Ryan Droege, CEO and co-founder of Relay Payments The two Haul of Fame winners receive an all-expenses-paid trip for themselves and a guest to the NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, where they’ll have the opportunity to meet Byron. The truck drivers will also be featured on Freightwaves’ WHAT THE TRUCK?!? podcast with Timothy Dooner and receive a $250 fuel voucher. To vote for the 15 finalists, visit relaypayments.com/hauloffame. Votes are accepted one time per day through July 31st.

FTR reports numbers slightly up

Bruce Guthrie - July 1, 2024

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — FTR reported some improved numbers recently. FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index for April improved from March to a reading of 3.0 as all index components were at least slightly favorable. Freight rates were the principal factor in better market conditions for shippers. Although market conditions might remain strong for a few more months, FTR forecasts some deterioration soon with the SCI falling to more neutral readings in the months ahead. “Freight rates in April were as favorable for shippers as they have been over the past year, but that climate likely will deteriorate modestly soon as capacity utilization has already begun to tighten a bit,” said Avery Vise, FTR’s vice president of trucking. “However, aside from unpredictable swings in fuel costs, we do not forecast negative SCI readings over the next couple of years that come close to matching the scope of positive readings recorded from mid-2022 through the end of 2023. Much can happen to change the situation, of course, but the freight market is shaping up to be much more balanced between shippers and carriers in 2025.” The June FTR’s Shippers Update, published June 7, provides a detailed analysis of the factors affecting the April Shippers Conditions Index and provides the forecast for this index through April 2025. Additional commentary in the June issue analyzes the lingering excess trucking capacity among both small and larger carriers. The Shippers Conditions Index tracks the changes representing four major conditions in the U.S. full-load freight market. These conditions are: freight demand, freight rates, fleet capacity, and fuel price. The individual metrics are combined into a single index that tracks the market conditions that influence the shippers’ freight transport environment. A positive score represents good, optimistic conditions. A negative score represents bad, pessimistic conditions. The index tells you the industry’s health at a glance.