Truck Driving Job News Archives

Mechanic Alyssa Briggs makes history as first woman to win XPO’s national MasterTech competition

Dana Guthrie - January 15, 2025

In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova, a former textile worker-turned Russian cosmonaut, became the first woman in space. In 1979, Margret Thatcher, known as “The Iron Lady,” became the first female Prime Minister of Great Britain. Amelia Earhart was the first woman to cross the Atlantic via airplane in 1928. For 2024, the world can add another name to that auspicious list of historic “firsts” — Alyssa Briggs. Briggs, a 24-year-old trailer mechanic from Ohio, is the first woman ever to win a champion spot in the XPO National MasterTech competition. “I’m definitely proud of myself and to bring recognition to other women in the field and just let people see that we are capable of these things too,” Briggs said. Briggs’ path to the winner’s podium is impressive. She overcame any initial doubts about entering a traditionally male-dominated field, graduating from trade school and hiring on at XPO, where quickly became one of the company’s best and brightest technicians. She says her husband Justin, who works for XPO as a truck mechanic, has been one of her biggest supporters and is always there to cheer her on. “I didn’t know I wanted to be a mechanic. It kind of happened by choice and kind of not by choice,” Briggs said with a laugh. It all started with her choice of high school. “I decided to go to a vocational school rather than a regular high school,” she said, noting that each student was required to apply for multiple training programs so that if the first choice was full, they could be placed in a backup program. “My first choice was CNC machining because that’s what my stepdad did. I knew I could always go work with him if need be. I picked that as my first choice. A couple other choices I just kind of jotted down were welding and engineering,” she said. “My last choice was diesel mechanics … and I’m sure you can guess what I got into.” Once she Briggs into the school’s diesel mechanic program, she was excited to learn something different. She ended up loving it the work. After graduation, she took a year off to decide if this was the career she really wanted. “I was scared of being a girl in the field,” Briggs said. “It was something I didn’t think about prior (to training). My family and my husband told me to just go for it — that if I didn’t like it, I could choose something else, but that I wouldn’t know unless I tried.” She says she loves the variety she’s found in her job as a trailer mechanic. “It’s always something just a little bit different with the trailers. You know, one day I’m doing a lot of tires or one day I’m doing a lot of brake jobs and some days it’s even just our preventative maintenance inspection,” she said. “It’s always something just a little different to be done but still working on the same thing every day.” Then came XPO’s 2024 MasterTech competition. The competition, known as a “Super Bowl for technicians,” tests the professional skills and knowledge of the company’s top technicians. Only 20 of the company’s 750 mechanics made it to the 2024 finals in Orlando, Florida — and just three of those 20 earned the title of MasterTech. When Briggs achieved her goal of being able to compete in the finals, she was ecstatic — but also apprehensive. “My hard work paid off,” Briggs said. “I couldn’t wait to be able to go and compete against all these other people and bring light to my name, to being a girl, because I knew I was the only girl going. So that was pretty cool.” But as the competition drew near, worries crept in. “I started getting scared because I knew I had to compete against all these other people who were the best of the best,” she said. “I’m like, ‘Oh my God! I’m terrified!’ “My husband said that if I gave it my best, even if I got last place, I was still one of the best of the best,” she continued. “He said to give it my best shot and go for it.” Briggs competed against fellow XPO trailer technicians in timed stations that tested each contestant’s technical skills and ability to solve problems. The competition was fierce, but it was also fun, Briggs said, adding that one of her favorite events involved a tire station. “We had our vendor Bridgestone come out and they had tire casings that were off the rim or had failed, whether it was a flat tire, maybe they picked up a nail or they had a total blowout,” she said. “We had to go through and determine, ‘Oh, this is what happened to this tire,’ and fully inspect the tires off the rim,” she continued. “It was cool to be able to see how, if a tire goes flat, the inside of the tire starts wearing differently. (When it’s not on a rim), you can see damage to the inside of the tire that you can’t normally see. So that was pretty cool. And we even had label different parts of the tire.” At the end of the competition, when Briggs was named the champion, she says her husband was cheering the loudest. “My husband said my whole face went white. I think I was just in shock. It took me a minute to fully process it,” she said. “I remember walking up and shaking all our higher-ups’ hands, and they’re congratulating me, everyone’s applauding me,” she continued. “Finally, I’m standing up there, and I started to smile — and that’s when it hit me, ‘Hey, I did this!’” Briggs says the fact that she was the first woman to win the title didn’t hit her until later. “It didn’t really click (until) other people started mentioning that I was the first girl to win,” she said. And I’m like, ‘Oh my God, I am!’” Briggs hopes that her achievement will encourage other women to not only get involved in the diesel mechanic industry, but to also to compete and test their skills. “Honestly, just go for it,” she said. “You know, I was terrified at first to get into this field, and it took a lot of encouragement from family and everyone for me to finally take that step and just do it — and I think it ended up being total opposite of what I thought it would be. I thought I’d always be looked down on or treated differently (because I’m a girl). And that is not the case,” she said, noting that others now come to her with questions or to ask with help on some tasks. “And it is honestly a great feeling just to be respected and treated equally,” she said. Briggs and her family are not the only ones who are proud of her achievements. “We’re absolutely thrilled,” said Lars Skagerlind, senior analyst, communications at XPO. “Alyssa is just an incredible mechanic. And it’s incredible to see her get recognized on this stage as well. Everyone at the entire company is thrilled. And it’s just a really cool special moment for the firm.” In addition to earning accolades as a MasterTech, Briggs has been named the Women In Trucking Association’s member of the month for January 2025.

BOGO bonanza returns: Pilot extends Buy-One-Get-One offer through February

Dana Guthrie - January 14, 2025

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Pilot is bringing more value to every in-store visit by expanding its special BOGO deals through February available with the myRewards Plus app. “Drivers can once again take advantage of Buy One, Get One Free deals on their favorite drinks like Monster, Pepsi, Gatorade, BodyArmor, Celsius, Liquid Death and more, and hit the road with two in tow, through the myRewards Plus app,” the company said. “This offer will run now through the end of February.” According to Pilot, the campaign aligns with the company’s ongoing commitment to create exceptional experiences and serve as every driver’s trusty wingman fueling journeys with the upbeat feeling of the open road. Terms and Conditions available at https://pilotflyingj.com/terms-and-conditions.

Shell Rotella Fuel Card: Unlock the power of savings

Dana Guthrie - January 14, 2025

HOUSTON, Texas — Shell Rotella has launched the Shell Rotella Fuel Card in conjunction with the Multi Service Fuel Card, offering savings and benefits designed to meet the needs of fleet and owner-operator drivers across the United States and Canada. “This is a milestone for Shell Rotella as we introduce the new Shell Rotella Fuel Card, a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing more for fleets and owner-operators,” said Leigha Hughes, fleet sector marketing manager. “An important goal with this card is to empower fleets with tools and benefits that directly support and reward their hard work and dedication.” According to a company media release, the card offers a comprehensive solution for significant fuel savings designed to enhance every aspect of fuel management for fleets. Cardholders will earn up to one MyMilesMatter mile per gallon purchased using the Shell Rotella Fuel Card. Shell Rotella Fuel Card – Features and Benefits Save at the Pump: Cardholders can enjoy an average savings of 45 cents per gallon off the credit price at participating locations. The savings are based on actual discounted gallons purchased by all Multi Service Fuel Card customers in 2024. Actual savings by customers will vary. Nationwide Acceptance: The Shell Rotella Fuel Card is accepted at more than 8,900 locations across the United States and Canada. Mobile Transparency: Leveraging the Multi Service Fuel Card mobile app alongside the Shell Rotella Fuel Card provides even more opportunity for savings and convenience. Drivers gain visibility to the most up-to-date diesel pricing across the network while trip planning while fleet managers can access transaction history and manage cards and users on the go. Earn More: For every gallon purchased using the Shell Rotella Fuel Card, users earn up to one MyMilesMatter point, which can be redeemed for gift cards and Shell Rotella® branded merchandise. Generous Credit Lines and Dedicated Account Management: To support business growth, the Shell Rotella Fuel Card offers multiple credit options and dedicated account management, ensuring that each customer receives personalized support and solutions tailored to their needs. Premium Customer Service: Available 24/7, the customer service team is dedicated to providing the support needed quickly and efficiently, ensuring a smooth experience for cardholders. Flexible and Insightful Billing Options: The card offers flexible billing statements, departmental billing to streamline accounting, and consolidated billing for a comprehensive overview of fuel expenses, all designed to support business operations. Advanced Fraud Protection: The Shell Rotella Fuel Card provides added protection at the pump from skimmers with One-Time PIN functionality through the mobile application. Enhanced Fuel Management Solutions: With features that enable the authorization of non-fuel items and set spend limitations, the Shell Rotella Fuel Card offers comprehensive fuel management solutions. Additionally, InstaMoney Checks provide a secure way for drivers to access cash for lumpers, repair shops, or tows. “New customers can activate their Shell Rotella Fuel Card via an online account,” the release said. “The program offers easy account management through the Shell Rotella Fuel Card platform and comprehensive training via online videos, ensuring users can easily maximize their fuel card benefits.”

Trucking industry sees a silver lining: Spot rates rise across the board

Dana Guthrie - January 14, 2025

According to data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ending Jan. 10, spot rates are up for all equipment types. “Spot rates usually fade in early January but broker-posted spot rates in the Truckstop system increased modestly for all equipment types during the week ended Jan. 10 (week 1),” according to an FTR media release. “Freight network disruptions from winter weather likely bolstered spot rates coming out of a capacity-driven spike during the holidays. Dry van spot rates were the highest in two years while refrigerated spot rates were the highest in just over a year. Flatbed spot rates recovered from their lowest level since July 2020.” The data also showed firmer broker-posted spot rates than typical for early January. “Spot rates rose for all equipment types as dry van spot rates were the highest in two years, and refrigerated spot rates were the highest in just over a year,” the release said. “Flatbed spot rates are still close to the weakest since the early recovery from pandemic lockdowns, but they did at least exceed the previous week’s level, which was the lowest since July 2020. Due to the mix of rates in the latest week, the total market rate declined slightly even though rates were higher week over week for all equipment types. In the current week (week ending January 17), dry van and refrigerated spot rates typically would decline as they normally would have last week, but it is unclear whether lingering weather effects might change the usual trajectory.” Total Spot Load Availability Total load activity jumped 77.4% to its highest level since March after rising more than 47% during the previous week. Volume was nearly 38% higher than during the same 2024 week but almost 21% below the five-year average for the week. Total truck postings increased 24.7%. The Market Demand Index – the ratio of load postings to truck postings in the system – soared to its highest level since June 2022. Total Spot Rates Despite rate increases for each individual equipment type, the total market broker-posted spot rate declined by about 1 cent. This odd outcome stems from the wide disparity in rate levels by equipment type, so the mix in a particular week occasionally produces a total market rate that moves contrary to the direction of rates for individual equipment types. Rates were up about 1% from the same 2024 week but down nearly 8% from the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated surcharge were up more than 4% year over year. The current week (week 2) typically sees declining dry van and refrigerated spot rates and rising flatbed rates, but it remains to be seen whether the market will continue to see effects from winter weather. Dry Van Spot Rates Dry van spot rates increased 2.4 cents after rising 2 cents in the previous week. Rates, which have risen about 16 cents in the past four weeks, were 3.4% higher than during the same 2024 week but were nearly 9% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were up 7.5% year over year. Dry van loads jumped 65.9% to their highest level since late June. Volume was almost 28% above the same 2024 week but more than 30% below the five-year average. Refrigerated Spot Rates Refrigerated spot rates rose 2.6 cents after increasing nearly 11 cents during the prior week. Rates, which have risen nearly 40 cents in the past four weeks, were 3.5% higher than in the same 2024 week but were more than 6% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were up 6.7% year over year. Refrigerated loads rose 29.2% to their highest level in two years. Volume was nearly 30% above the same 2024 week but 26% below the five-year average. “Weather and a return to normal activity following the holidays likely were behind big increases in load availability and market stress during the week ended January 10,” the release said. “Total load postings hit their highest level since March. The growth in load postings greatly outpaced that for truck postings, resulting in a Market Demand Index of 95.5, the highest since June 2022.”

WIT seeks top talent for 2025 Driver of the Year Award nominations

Dana Guthrie - January 13, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va. — Nominations are now open for the annual Women In Trucking Association (WIT) Women In Trucking Driver of the Year award sponsored by Walmart. “The remarkable accomplishments of women on our team here at Walmart inspire us daily, and we know their successes are paving the way for more women to join the exciting world of trucking,” said Ryan McDaniel, Vice President, Walmart Transportation. “Women in our business are not just driving trucks, they are fueling progress that is making the freight industry better, and we are honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award.” According to a WIT press release, the prestigious award recognizes exceptional female professional drivers who exemplify outstanding safety leadership, and a commitment to advancing the trucking industry, particularly for women drivers. The 2025 Driver of the Year Award aims to honor drivers who not only demonstrate exemplary skill behind the wheel but also serve as a role models, mentors, and advocates for the industry. Nominations are open to women who are currently employed as professional drivers within the trucking industry. Eligibility criteria for nominees: Must have at least two years of driving experience. Demonstrated commitment to safety, professionalism and driving excellence. Contributions to mentoring, advocacy, or involvement in programs that support the advancement of women in trucking. A history of exemplary service in the trucking industry. To submit at nomination or for more information click here. The nomination submission deadline is Jan. 31. “Recognizing the accomplishments of female drivers and the value they bring to the trucking profession is a key mission of WIT and we’re pleased to showcase their stories through this award,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO. The finalists and overall winner will be honored at the 2025 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, Ky. on Friday, March 28. The winner will be chosen based on her safety record, positive community contributions, and impact on the public image of the trucking industry. She will receive a plaque, a commemorative ring and more.

Trucking industry tackles human trafficking as part of of National Human Trafficking Prevention month

Dana Guthrie - January 10, 2025

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention month and the trucking industry is joining forces to help combat this evil practice. The History Behind the Month More than 20 years ago, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) enshrined the United States’ commitment to combating human trafficking domestically and internationally. In 2010, by presidential proclamation, President Obama declared January “National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month” and every year since, each president has followed this tradition. Presidential proclamations not only raise the profile of the issue, but are also snapshots of global trends and challenges, and significant U.S. anti-trafficking policy achievements. Some highlights include: In 2012, the issuance of the Executive Order ‘Strengthening Protections Against Trafficking in Persons in Federal Contracts ; In 2016, the first convening of the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking; In 2017, the State Department’s launch of its largest anti-trafficking program, the Program to End Modern Slavery; and In 2021, the release of the updated National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking. Trucking Industry at the Forefront of the Fight According to TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking), human trafficking – or modern-day slavery – is a global crime in which people are bought and sold for forced labor or commercial sex. Traffickers use violence, manipulation and false promises of work opportunities or romance to lure, control and exploit their victims. Of the estimated 50 million victims worldwide, thousands of girls, boys, women and men are trafficked for sex or labor in the U.S. and Canada. “In response to these realities, TAT recognizes that trucking, along with other members of the transportation industry, are perfectly positioned in the course of their everyday jobs to provide an extra set of eyes and ears to law enforcement in helping to identify both victims and perpetrators of human trafficking,” TAT said. “The very nature of their jobs — with their extensive travel, the variety of venues they visit, and their sheer numbers – creates opportunities for members of these industries to interact with potential victims of human trafficking regularly. They just need training to both identify and report human trafficking when they see it.” XPO recently renewed its partnership with TAT to help combat this important issue. “At XPO, safety extends beyond our operations. It also includes supporting efforts that make our communities safer,” said Mario Harik, XPO’s CEO. “Nearly 6,000 of our employees across the United States have received training to recognize and report suspected human trafficking. We are proud to provide extra eyes and ears on the road and look forward to continuing this partnership to help protect those who are vulnerable.” XPO’s renewal of this partnership coincides with National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, which raises awareness for public resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Reports from truck drivers nationwide have played a role in rescuing survivors and disrupting trafficking networks. “Truck drivers are critical allies in the fight against human trafficking, and our roads and communities are safer because of the thousands of XPO drivers who have received anti-trafficking training. We’re grateful to XPO for their ongoing support and commitment to this important cause,” said Esther Goetsch, TAT’s executive director. The U.S. Department of Transportation recently released its 2024 Advisory Committee Report on Human Trafficking. “Our report illustrates the many ways the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has, since the 2019 report, encouraged and nurtured efforts throughout our nation’s transportation systems, significantly strengthening America’s response to this vital responsibility,” USDOT said. “Our recommendations convey the many challenges that remain in our collective efforts to eliminate this scourge.” UPS is also using its power through a multi-faceted approach to fight through policy, education, leadership and philanthropy. It also provides in-kind labor and support for TAT’s Freedom Drivers Project (FDP), a walk-through mobile exhibit that travels the U.S. and Canada educating audiences about the realities of human trafficking. The exhibit includes artifacts from real-life cases that connect people to the stories of human trafficking survivors. It also features portraits of everyday heroes, highlights how the transportation industry is helping to end human trafficking, and shares simple action steps anyone can take to make a difference. UPS has hauled over 11,000+ miles for FDP allowing 3.9 million viewers for the exhibit. UPS also has 20+ FDP certified drivers and guides. FDP also counts Bridgestone, C.H. Robinson, Day & Ross, Peterbilt and TravelCenters of America among its supporters. TAT and TravelCenters of America honored one of its own in 2024 for using the training he received to rescue a human trafficking victim, proving that training is working. Charles Bernsen, general manager of the Petro in Florence, S.C., received the 2024 TAT Harriet Tubman Award, presented by Progressive Commercial. Bernsen received the award, which includes a trophy and check for $5,000, from TAT Oct. 2 at the location where he worked as general manager when the incident occurred for which he was recognized. As an added surprise, the trafficking survivor Bernsen aided, Nikki, also attended the awards presentation. This marked the first meeting between the two since the incident that brought them together originally. Bernsen, one of 18,000 TA employees who receive TAT’s human trafficking training annually, noticed a distressed young woman hanging around the store. She would disappear for periods of time into the restroom but then reappear in the lobby area. After a couple days of seeing her repeatedly, Bernsen approached her and asked if she needed help. She burst into tears, telling him she had escaped a man who had been holding her captive in a hotel across the street from the TA where he’d been selling her for sex. Bernsen offered her food, clothing, a blanket and information about TAT. He had her call the National Human Trafficking Hotline and speak to them, and then purchased a bus ticket for her to get home and provided money for expenses along the way. Nikki, later made a video with TAT about her experience and said Bernsen’s soft-spoken demeanor and compassion enabled her to trust him. Bernsen said the TAT training definitely better prepared him for this situation. “Once you’ve been exposed to all this evil, it’s always in the back of your mind that this could be happening, and it could happen in the blink of an eye,” Bernsen said. “The education, the videos and conferences we’ve gone to have been a huge help.” Platform Science has also partnered with TAT install the user friendly TAT app on all tablets provided to Platform Science customers to help make it easier to report suspected human trafficking. “We are grateful to TAT for the incredible work they do in mobilizing the trucking industry to fight human trafficking,” said said Michael Bray, chief commercial officer for Platform Science. “By offering the TAT app to our customer’s drivers, we are empowering them to play an active role in this important effort. Drivers are at the center of everything we do and this is another example of how we give them the tools at their fingertips to make a difference while on the road.” In 2024, the American Trucking Association’s (ATA) Trucking Cares Foundation donated $25,000 TAT. “The depravity of human trafficking is unfathomable. By partnering with law enforcement, motor carriers and truck drivers can vastly expand the reach of rescue efforts, bringing eyes and ears to every corner of the country,” said John Lynch, ATA senior vice president of federation relations. “The training that TAT provides harnesses truck drivers’ innate sense of compassion and routine vigilance to help them spot victims along their routes over the nation’s highways. This partnership has saved countless victims from exploitation. The Trucking Cares Foundation is proud to support TAT’s lifesaving mission through this donation.” These are only a few of the outstanding trucking industry leaders that are leading the charge to end human trafficking for good.

Averitt opens new service center in Dothan, Alabama

Dana Guthrie - January 10, 2025

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. —  Averitt has completed its new service center in the Dothan, Ala. area featuring enhancing capacity, security and associated amenities. According to a company press release, the facility will open Jan. 10. “Compared to the previous location in Dothan, the new service center features over three times the previous dock space, expanded parking for more than 200 trailers and increased office space to support operational needs,” the release said. “Enhanced security measures include electric fencing, motion-sensor lighting, a security badge system for all doors, and automatic gates equipped with advanced cameras. “ Additional improvements include added fuel pumps, a dedicate conference room and an upgraded dock operations hub. These enhancements support the operational needs of associates while improving functionality across the facility. Averitt’s new service center is located at 4261 Mance Newton Rd, Midland City, Ala.

Wheels of justice: Two truckers file lawsuit to carry guns across state lines

Dana Guthrie - January 9, 2025

AUSTIN, Texas — The Liberty Justice Center (LJC) has filed a lawsuit on behalf of two truckers arguing that Minnesota’s failure to recognize other states’ firearm permits violates the Second Amendment. “Minnesota’s refusal to honor other states’ lawfully issued firearm permits places an unreasonable burden on the Second Amendment rights of individuals like Mr. McCoy and Mr. Johnson who regularly cross state lines in the course of their work,” said Loren Seehase, senior counsel at the Liberty Justice Center. “There is no other constitutional right that individuals are prohibited from exercising until they’ve obtained permission from the state. No one loses their right to free speech or freedom of religion by simply driving from Texas to Minnesota—so why should they lose their right to self-defense? We ask the court to intervene and require the state of Minnesota to honor nonresidents’ Second Amendment rights.” According to the LJC, the lawsuit aims to defend two truckers’ constitutional right to bear arms in public and carry them in their trucks across state borders. David McCoy is a full-time, long-haul trucker who lives in the sleeper compartment of his eighteen-wheeler. He has a Texas License to Carry that permits him to bear arms in many states across the country. Jeffrey Johnson is also a full-time, long-haul trucker, with both a Florida Concealed Weapons License and Georgia Weapons Carry License. “Even though both men have lawfully issued firearm licenses, they are currently prevented from carrying firearms for self-defense while in Minnesota because the state prohibits carrying a firearm for self-defense, in public or in one’s vehicle, without a Minnesota Permit to Carry or a permit recognized by the state,” the LJC said. Each year, Minnesota choses which states’ firearms permits it will recognize and which it will not. Currently, Minnesota excludes Texas, Georgia and Florida—along with 26 other states—from that list. Due to this law, neither McCoy nor Johnson can exercise their constitutional right to bear arms for self-defense due to fear of prosecution, which could jeopardize the credentials needed for their profession. On Jan. 7, the LJC filed a lawsuit on McCoy’s and Johnson’s behalf, arguing that Minnesota’s firearm permitting law deprives nonresidents of their Second Amendment right to bear arms. The lawsuit asks the court to find the law unconstitutional and order the state of Minnesota to honor firearm permits issued by all other states. McCoy v. Jacobson was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota on Jan. 7. The LJC’s legal filings in McCoy v. Jacobson are available here.

FMCSA takes action: Six ELDS removed from list of registered devices

Dana Guthrie - January 9, 2025

WASHINGTON —Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration removed six ELD’s from its list of registered devices by BLUE STAR ELD, ROAD STAR SOLUTIONS, United Eld, Speed ELD and TrackEnsure ELD. According to an FMCSA media release, on Jan 8. FMCSA removed the following ELDs from the list of registered ELDs due to the providers’ failure to meet the minimum requirements: ELD Name – BLUE STAR ELD; Model Number – BSE; ELD Identifier – BSE777; ELD Provider – BLUE STAR ELD Inc. ELD Name – ROAD STAR SOLUTIONS; Model Number – RSSE01; ELD Identifier – RSSA01; ELD Provider – ROAD STAR Inc. ELD Name – United ELD ; Model Number – UE002; ELD Identifier – UEI002; ELD Provider – ROAD STAR inc. ELD Name – Speed ELD; Model Number – SPE 1; ELD Identifier – SP33D3; ELD Provider – Speed ELD. ELD Name – TrackEnsure ELD; Model Number – PT30; ELD Identifier – TE0101; ELD Provider – TrackEnsure Inc. ELD Name – TrackEnsure ELD; Model Number – PT30; ELD Identifier – TE0101; ELD Provider – TrackEnsure Inc. (FMCSA removed two separate TrackEnsure ELDs with the same ELD Name, Model Number, and ELD Identifier.) Motor carriers and drivers using these ELD’s have 60 days to replace them with compliant ELDs.

Truckstop, FTR report van rates continue to rise in first week of January

Dana Guthrie - January 9, 2025

Data from Truckstop and FTR Transportation Intelligence for the week ending Jan. 3 showed continued holiday-related strengthening in broker-posted spot rates for dry van and refrigerated equipment as most of the week included the period between Christmas and New Year’s Day, according to a media release. “Dry van spot rates increased to their highest level since January 2023, while refrigerated spot rates rose to their highest level since the end of 2023,” the release said. “On the other hand, flatbed spot rates were marginally below the lowest levels of 2024 and, therefore, technically declined to their lowest level since July 2020. The first couple of weeks of the new year typically see a steady softening of van equipment rates after the capacity-related spike during the holidays, but a major winter weather event impacting a large swatch of the U.S. could result in freight disruptions that boost rates in the current week.” Total Spot load Availability Total load activity rose 47.3% after plunging more than 57% during the week that included Christmas. Volume was more than 22% above that in the first week of 2024. Total truck postings increased 3.2% after falling 32% in the previous week. The Market Demand Index – the ratio of load postings to truck postings in the system – recovered to nearly the level posted two weeks earlier. Total Spot Rates The total broker-posted spot rate declined seven-tenths of a cent after rising 7 cents in the previous week. Rates were 1.6% higher than in the first week of 2024. Normally, both the first and second weeks of a new year see falling spot rates for dry van and refrigerated equipment, but the major weather event occurring this week could result in big freight disruptions that put upward pressure on rates. The same dynamic occurred during week 3 in 2024. Dry Van Spot Rates Dry van spot rates increased 2 cents to their highest level since early January 2023. Rates were more than 2% higher than during the first week of 2024. Dry van loads rose 36.8% following Christmas week. Volume was 23% below the first week of 2024. Refrigerates Spot Rates Refrigerated spot rates rose 10.6 cents to their highest level since the final week of 2023. Rates, which have risen 37 cents in the past three weeks, were 2.5% higher than in the first week of 2024. Refrigerated loads rose 28% after the week that included Christmas. Volume was 0.4% above the first week of 2024. Flatbed Spot Rates Flatbed spot rates fell nearly 3 cents for their largest decrease in seven weeks. Flatbed rates were marginally lower than levels recorded a few times in 2024 and, thus, were at their lowest level since July 2020. Rates were nearly 2% below the first week of 2024. Flatbed loads rebounded 78.7% after plunging more than 67% during Christmas week. Volume was more than 30% below the first week of 2024. “With load availability recovery much faster than truck availability following Christmas week, the Market Demand Index recovered to 67.1, which is only slightly below the level two weeks earlier,” the release said.

Ford’s move to kill union jobs at Jack Cooper sparks outrage, Teamsters vow to fight

Dana Guthrie - January 8, 2025

Updated 9:10 a.m. Jan. 14. to include statement from Ford Motor Co. WASHINGTON — With Ford Motor Company canceling its decades-long carhaul contract with Jack Cooper, Teamsters general president Sean M. O’Brian is promising to use the Union’s full force to defend Cooper and is urging Ford “in the strongest possible terms to reverse this decision.” “By taking steps to end its relationship with Jack Cooper, the Ford Motor Company has officially threatened the livelihoods of more than 1,400 Teamsters-represented carhaul workers and their families,” O’Brian said. “Ford, a once iconic American brand, wants to boost its own bottom line by walking away from a family-owned company and into the arms of second-rate third parties that will pay workers less money and far fewer benefits to haul Ford vehicles.” O’Brian noted that the entire 1.3 million-member Teamsters Union stands absolutely opposed to this “shameful and un-American decision.” “The erosion of good-paying union jobs poses a serious threat to our entire economy,” O’Brian said. “We have seen time and again that there are no winners when corporations sell out workers to the lowest bidder. Corporate executives refuse to look past the short-term, setting their sights on an extra bonus as they race to the bottom to ruin lives, hollow out communities, and decimate the middle class. It must stop.” O’Brian also said that the Union will continue to defend it’s members and “protect honorable union jobs in America.” “We do not comment on our contracts or relationships with individual suppliers,” Ford Motor Co. said in a statement to The Trucker. “We manage supplier relationships in line with our sourcing strategy, designed to enable us to best serve our customers.”

TCA outlines top industry issues to address with new administration, upcoming Congress

Linda Garner-Bunch - January 8, 2025

With the swearing in of Donald Trump as President of the U.S. scheduled for January 20, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) plans to continue to advance the priorities of the truckload industry with a new administration. In a November 15 press release, TCA issued this statement: “The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) congratulates President-elect Donald J. Trump on his election victory. We look forward to collaborating with his administration and the upcoming Congress. Together, we aim to advance the critical priorities of our truckload membership, which are essential to keeping America moving. “With a commitment to promoting a balanced regulatory and legislative framework, TCA will continue to advocate for policies that support a sustainable and robust trucking industry. As the new administration and Congress begin their terms, TCA is dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving solutions that strengthen the industry’s ability to deliver essential goods, enhance safety, and contribute to economic growth. “TCA looks forward to working with policymakers to address these pressing issues and advance legislation that empowers our members to keep America moving forward.” Following are the association’s top legislative issues, along with predictions about what the future might hold under a new administration. Independent Contractor Status In January 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor officially announced its final rule regarding the classification of independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The new ruling under the Biden Administration featured six critical factors for which Independent Contractors must qualify. Due to its intricacies, the ruling jeopardizes the freedoms of those businesspeople who have chosen to become entrepreneurs. Prediction: The previous rule under the Trump administration was straightforward, establishing two primary factors to determine independent contractors or employment status; TCA predicts that Trump and his administration will reinstate the original rule. Environmental Regulations In March of 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles-Phase 3,” which sets stringent standards and timelines to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles from model years 2027-2032. The ruling itself relied heavily on battery-electric and hydrogen-electric power systems. However, new battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) present significant challenges. They cost approximately $450,000 each, compared to around $180,000 for a diesel tractor. Additionally, the 16,000-pound batteries in these electric trucks reduce their cargo capacity, potentially requiring carriers to increase the number of trucks on highways to comply with the federal 80,000-pound weight limit while meeting shipping demands. Prediction: In a letter drafted by U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), the TCA along with more than 150 GOP members of Congress, urged Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan to withdraw the agency’s final rule “Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles-Phase 3.” Expectations suggest that the standards may be revised to levels deemed achievable for internal combustion engines, extending compliance timelines, and exploring alternative pathways to reach emissions targets, such as the adoption of renewable diesel. Infrastructure In 2021, the Biden Administration signed the $1.2 trillion Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA) for transportation and infrastructure spending, putting aside $110 billion for roads, bridges and significant projects. Prediction: Just as President Joe Biden played a large impact of the IIJA, Trump could similarly influence the 2026 infrastructure bill, potentially by reducing environmental provisions and allocating additional funds for expanding highway and bridge capacity. Truck Parking Although the Biden administration did not set aside specific funding for truck parking initiatives in the IIJA, funding for infrastructure projects was generalized. Prediction: The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act (S.1034/H.R. 2367) calls for $755 million over the next three years to expand commercial motor vehicle parking throughout the country. The bill itself has been quite favorable for both Republican and Democratic parties, as it shows bipartisanship in both houses of Congress. Vice-President Elect J.D. Vance is a co-sponsor of the bill and has been an ally to the trucking industry. Speed Limiters During the Biden-Harris administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sought to release a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking on speed limiters for commercial trucks. However, the proposed rule has been delayed throughout Biden’s time in office. TCA has supported this safety technology as many of its carrier members have speed limiters in place. Prediction: The speed limiter rule could be delayed, as many Republicans in Congress are not in favor of this technology. With a Trump administration and a prominently Republican Congress, a speed limiter ruling may never come in place. Lawsuit Abuse The Biden-Harris administration supported labor law legislation to broaden the scope of violations and increase monetary damages, similar to those seen in truck accident lawsuits. Prediction: The Trump-Vance administration is expected to support legislation that would allow lawsuits to be brought into the federal court system. This move could help curb “nuclear verdicts” (awards exceeding $10 million) against trucking companies. It would also advance tort reform efforts championed by the trucking industry, building on the momentum these reforms have gained at the state level. Size and Weight Limits Historically, Congress has consistently opposed raising size and weight limits for semi-truck because of worries about public safety and potential damage to infrastructure. In 2015, the House of Representatives voted on a bipartisan basis to maintain the current federal limits. However, Republicans have always favored increasing a tractor-trailer’s size and weight limits. In the 118th Congress, Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-South Dakota) introduced multiple bills that had language increasing the size and weight of commercial trucks, such as the Move Act (H.R.7496) and a 10-year pilot program that would increase the maximum weight of tractor trailers to 91,000 pounds. Prediction: With a Republican administration and a Republican majority in Congress, legislation increasing federal tractor-trailer size and weight standards could likely be introduced into Congress.

New York trucking industry reacts to start of congestion pricing

Dana Guthrie - January 8, 2025

NEW YORK – Following the beginning of congestion pricing in New York City on January 5, the the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) is once again emphasizing how the newly enforced regulation will negatively impact truckers and the trucking industry. TANY president Kendra Hems issued another plea on behalf of truckers affected by the regulation and vows to continue to fight against the practice. “While congestion pricing has only just taken effect, our drivers are already bracing for the severe impact these tolls will have on their operations in the days and weeks ahead,” Hems said. “To be clear, we are not inherently opposed to congestion pricing. As we’ve said all along, as well as in our ongoing litigation against the MTA, our concern is that the current plan disproportionately targets trucking operators by charging them on a per-trip basis, unlike passenger vehicles which are charged once per day. This fact alone will have devastating downstream impacts across the city due to the essential role that the trucking industry plays in our economy—consider that nearly 90% of goods in the five boroughs are delivered by trucks.” Hems noted that the industry is already in the midst of an affordability and quality-of-life crisis. Congestion pricing will only exacerbate these circumstances as the industry will be forced to pass along increased costs to customers. Ultimately, New Yorkers will be picking up the tab, according to Hems. “Additionally, the trucking industry is not able to adapt like commuters who have the ability to use alternative modes of transportation,” Hems said. “Grocery stores, after all, can’t be stocked with shipments that travel on the subway. Additionally, while we fully support overnight deliveries, our drivers do not determine when and where deliveries occur—their customers do. In other words, drivers do not have the luxury of being able to drive during off-peak hours. The trucking industry fully supports finding a way to reduce traffic and improve the environment, but these efforts should not come at the cost of businesses and residents who in many cases serve as a lifeline to New Yorkers.”

Could the start of a new year be a good time to find a new truck driving job?

Cliff Abbott - January 8, 2025

With the beginning of a new year, many people are looking to make changes in their lives. One of those changes might involve finding a new job, or even a new career. For current and prospective truck drivers, this might be a great move. As 2025 kicks off, signs indicate that the trucking industry is entering a new — and hopefully profitable — part of the supply-demand cycle. For the past couple of years or so, the industry has been stuck in a downward trajectory because of overcapacity. When the supply of available trucks exceeds the demand for services, freight rates go down as the industry undergoes contraction. When that happens, some carriers, both large and small, go out of business. The carriers that remain often reduce their fleet size and change their load acceptance parameters to avoid the least profitable loads. Right now, most industry analysts agree that trucking is on the verge of a growth cycle. That’s because the supply of trucks has finally shrunk enough to be roughly in equilibrium with the demand by shippers. Rates should begin rising, and carriers will be hiring more drivers to keep their fleets fully seated. That’s good news for those thinking of changing jobs. As competition for drivers heats up, so do carrier recruiting efforts. Drivers who have been struggling to get enough paid miles or who are looking for higher pay per load will be keeping an eye on the barrage of recruitment advertising that is sure to ensue. Before jumping on board with a new carrier, however, there are a few important things to consider. Rate of pay In trucking, pay raises often beget pay raises. In other words, carriers know that they’ll lose some drivers to other carriers who announce pay increases. They watch the market carefully to see who’s raising pay — and then they often raise their own compensation package to keep pace. It’s not uncommon for a driver to switch carriers for more pay only to find out the company they left gave everyone a pay increase. It’s worth asking about before making a decision. Then, as every experienced driver knows, rates per mile don’t mean much if the miles aren’t there. If you’re considering a job change, ask about the average length of haul and average weekly miles per truck. Carriers with competent management track such numbers and use them in staff meetings and elsewhere to make business decisions. Recruiters should be able to answer any questions you might have — and those answers should be specific rather than “ballpark” numbers. At many carriers, bonuses make up a significant part of driver pay. Bonuses are offered for safe performance, on-time deliveries, attainment of fuel mileage goals and other reasons. Bonuses often sound good, but the requirements can make them difficult to achieve. Always ask what percentage of the carrier’s drivers were actually paid the offered bonuses. If you don’t earn the bonus, will the base pay rate be enough to pay your bills? Ask about accessorial pay, too, including the requirements to get it. For example, detention pay of $25 per hour might sound OK, but if they only start paying after you’ve been there for four hours, it’s actually not such a great deal. Often there are other conditions — for example, that the detention must be listed on the load paperwork and signed by the customer, or that detention isn’t paid until paperwork is received at the carrier office. Can you realistically expect to get paid if you are detained? Layover pay is another ask. If the carrier can’t find you a load while you’re on the road, how long must you wait before earning layover pay? Some carriers have a rule that ties layover to the 34-hour reset of your hours of service, withholding layover pay if the hours are used to reset your hours. The theory is that you’ve benefitted from the hours reset and therefore don’t deserve layover pay. Such practices should make you wonder if you really want to work for that carrier. Geographical location Where you live is an important consideration when considering a job change. Just because your residence falls withing the carrier’s hiring area shown on a map, it doesn’t mean the carrier has enough freight to keep you rolling in that particular area. You might ask about how the carrier plans to get you home when you’re not actively hauling. If you typically need to drive for hours from your last delivery to your home — and then more hours to get to your next load — that particular carrier may not be the right one for you. On the other hand, the carrier might have a customer close by where you can drop a trailer and bobtail a short distance to your home. Equipment matters Ask about the age of the carrier’s truck fleet, too. Most keep track of the age of the average tractor in their fleet or can at least tell you their trade cycle (how long they keep tractors before replacing them). During periods of low rates and low profits, carriers often reduce new truck purchases, increasing the age of the average truck in their fleet. If you’re concerned about what you’ll be driving, ask during the recruiting process. Build a record of longevity Staying longer with a carrier almost always looks better on an application, and some carriers put limits on how many jobs an applicant can have during a specified amount of time in order to be considered for hire. There are even statistics showing that drivers who change jobs more often tend to be less safe. That’s something to think about when considering a job change, because every job, even a short-term one, impacts your work record. Do your homework Thoroughly researching a carrier you’re considering should include more than just an application and a conversation with a recruiter. Use the power of the internet to find news and reviews of the carrier — and keep in mind that negative reviews are often posted by employees whose time at a carrier didn’t end well. Complainers never attempt to provide the carrier’s side of the story. Still, large numbers of negative posts with few positive ones may be a sign to stay away from a company. Current drivers may give you a clearer picture than online reviews by past employees. You can also look up accident and inspection information on the carrier’s CSA web page, where you can see how they compare to others. When rates are high and companies are competing to hire drivers it could be a great time to change jobs — but it’s always a good idea to weigh all the options and check out the company before making a switch.

Trucking industry endures: New report reveals surprising supply chain resilience

Dana Guthrie - January 7, 2025

RENO, Nev. – ITS Logistics has released the November ITS Supply Chain Report which shows that the U.S. economy displayed resilience amidst a transitioning monetary policy and external disruptions but faced ongoing challenges in housing affordability, labor market cooling and inflationary stickiness. “Recent data indicates that inflation remains a concern, with the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index expected to rise by 2.5% in November, up from 2.3% in October,” said Stan Kolev, ITS Logistics CFO Stan Kolev. “This upward trend suggests that inflation is becoming more persistent, which may compel the Federal Reserve to maintain higher interest rates for an extended period, potentially dampening economic growth.” According to a media release, growth prospects also remain modestly positive, with fiscal and monetary adjustments likely to play key roles in 2025. Despite having a positive outcome for November, the U.S. economic outlook is influenced by several key risks that could impact growth and stability in the near term. These key concerns include inflationary pressure, monetary policy uncertainty, global economic uncertainty, and consumer confidence. According to the release, as the Federal Reserve’s approach to curbing inflation continues to remain under scrutiny, the speed and scale of these adjustments will be evaluated at each meeting, introducing uncertainty into financial markets and investment planning. Furthermore, while the global economic environment presents additional risks, the European Union’s economy is returning to modest growth after a period of stagnation. However, geopolitical tensions and energy security concerns pose significant uncertainties. While the economy continues to evolve, further impacting various supply chain sectors as 2024 comes to a close, the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Purchase Managers’ Index (PMI) registered at 48.4% in November, an increase of 1.9 points compared to October. In addition, the Savannah freight market showcased import volumes that were 12% higher than last year, driving up outbound truckload volumes by 16% year over year (YOY). “I sort of caution people to pause and take a breath about what next year looks like,” said Dean Croke, principal analyst at DAT Freight and Analytics. “I see more headwinds than anything, especially in the first six months for carriers in particular as well as manufacturers and shippers. This is because it will take time for interest rate cuts to materialize, for any changes in corporate tax cuts to flow through to business, and for that to result in some sort of an economic stimulus.” ITS Logistics offers a full suite of network transportation solutions across North America and distribution and fulfillment services to 95% of the U.S. population within two days. These services include drayage and intermodal in 22 coastal ports and 30 rail ramps, a full suite of asset and asset-lite transportation solutions, omnichannel distribution and fulfillment, LTL, and outbound small parcel. The monthly ITS Supply Chain Report serves to inform ITS employees, partners, and customers of marketplace changes and updates. The information in the report combines data provided through DAT and various industry sources with insights from the ITS team. Visit here for a comprehensive copy of the report with expected industry insights and market updates.

Weather reports are an important part of safe trips

Cliff Abbott - January 7, 2025

Does your current trip plan include an updated weather report? If it doesn’t, you’re missing out on some crucial information that could impact your safety and the safety of others. While no one would argue that weather predictions are completely reliable, the science of meteorology has come a long way in the last century. Thanks to satellite imagery, Doppler radar and other advances, weather systems can be identified and monitored earlier than ever. The Internet makes communication instantaneous. Widely available weather apps bring the latest information directly to your phone. The National Weather Service, The Weather Channel and AccuWeather all offer apps that can provide current weather information both nationally and locally. AccuWeather offers to provide local weather based on your current GPS location. Other popular apps are Weather Underground, Storm Shield and Highway Weather. Most are free; some offer enhanced features or reduced advertising for an small fee. The available weather information and delivery systems make events such as the 1900 Galveston, Texas, hurricane much easier to prepare for, saving thousands of lives. Back then, there was little warning of the approaching hurricane that destroyed more than 7,000 buildings and killed a number of people estimated to be between 6,000 and 12,000. It’s still the greatest weather disaster in U.S. history. Contrast that storm with the entire 2024 hurricane season in the U.S., which has been called “one of the deadliest in recent memory,” by USA Today. Five named storms made landfall in the U.S., the worst of which was Helene, resulting in more than 250 deaths across six states. No deaths were reported for one hurricane while deaths in the single-digits were reported for two others. Less than 500 deaths were reported for the entire season. While comparing the weather systems you might encounter on your next trip to deadly hurricanes may seem unreasonable, there is a link. The key reason for reduced numbers of fatalities was the ability of the public to prepare. The folks in Galveston in 1900 did not have that luxury. There’s another similarity. Hurricanes are extreme examples of low-pressure weather systems, the same type of systems that bring wind and rain everywhere. When air pressure drops, moisture-laden air is able to rise to altitudes where cooler air forces the water to fall out. Whether it falls as rain, snow, hail or in another form depends on the temperature and other factors, but it all starts with an area of low pressure. In the Northern Hemisphere, low-pressure systems spin counter-clockwise. They typically move from West to East, although the path can be changed by jet stream currents, other weather systems and more. If you’re driving through one, you might notice that the wind hits one side of your truck and then changes to the other side. Or if the low-pressure system is to your south, you may be driving into a headwind if you’re heading east. The point is that you can often predict the wind direction if you know where the center of the system is located. Another important bit of information is how fast the system is traveling. That can help you estimate when bad weather will arrive, but it also impacts how long you’ll be in the bad weather. If the system and you are both traveling in the same direction, it’ll take you longer to drive out of the bad weather. If you’re headed west in an eastbound system, you’ll be out of it quicker. If you’re driving in light rain, it may not matter. If you’re driving in a heavy snowfall, however, you’ll want to make good decisions about how far to proceed and when it’s safer to park and wait it out. Some weather apps provide predictions for each hour of the day, helping you plan when your best hours for driving will be. If you’re like most drivers, your biggest weather interest is severe weather. Storms that bring high winds, tornadoes, heavy snowfall or freezing rain can be deadly. It’s best to avoid them when possible, but the job requires traveling and inclement weather is just a part of it. The problem is determining how bad it will be. That’s difficult without up to the minute information. Each winter, one or more storms results in front-page photos of cars and trucks stranded on a snow-covered highway, often involved in a chain reaction accident. It’s certainly possible to be surprised by the weather, and rain and snowfalls can absolutely be higher than expected. Still, when heavy snows and slippery roads are predicted, one might wonder why so many vehicles were on the road in the first place. Modern meteorology makes it possible to predict when storm systems will arrive in the area you’re in and in the one you’re traveling to. Using available resources to keep track of weather systems is one way to reduce your chances of getting caught up in the worst weather. While it may not be possible to shut down for days at a time to avoid winter storms, sometimes taking an hour for a meal can give snow-clearing crews a chance to plow roads and put down salt or chemicals. Carriers generally monitor the weather and may use the information in their dispatch decisions, but it’s important to remember that the final decision rests with you, the driver. A fleet manager in an office 1,000 miles away doesn’t have the visibility that you do through your truck’s windshield. Shutting down or delaying a departure is a judgement call. Make sure your judgement is considered. Communication is the key. Let your dispatch team know what you’re doing and why, and don’t be intimidated into making an unsafe driving decision. Competent carriers will support your judgement. Today’s drivers have more tools than ever before that can help increase efficiency and safety, but they only work when they’re used. Make a weather report a part of your load acceptance process, include weather in your trip planning and check again periodically during your trip.

Driving excellence: National Carriers Inc unveils new batch of 2024 award winners

Dana Guthrie - January 6, 2025

IRVING, Texas — National Carriers Inc. has released the names of its Driver of the Month for the months of July, August and September of 2024. Glendol Moody, a native of Texas, Joel Rosado of New Jersey, and April Celestine from Louisiana were each named as a 2024 Driver of the Month. These drivers have each received a one-thousand-dollar bonus and are now eligible to be named 2024 Driver of the Year. The winner will receive an additional $10,000 bonus. Moody as was recognized for the month of July. He joined the firm in October of 2019 as a company driver servicing customers on its 48-state fleet. Immediately, he proved himself as a valued team member, and is now a leading driver trainer at the “Elite” fleet, according to a company press release. ”I am born and raised in the state of Texas,” Moody said. “My dad was a trucker, and I fell in love with it early on. In 1997 I began my career in the industry. When I researched coming to work at National Carriers, lead recruiter, Jerritt Judie, was straightforward with me with no BS. He promised the company would not be perfect, but everyone would try their hardest to make things work. My driver manager is Paul Whitley; we have a cordial and honest relationship. He is the best dispatcher I have ever had. What I enjoy most is training incoming drivers who are new to the industry. I have a teacher mentality, and I enjoy watching my students achieve. I don’t expect perfection, and I let students know my expectations at the start of their training. That removes stress for the student and allows them to concentrate on learning as they drive.” Rosado was awarded Driver of the Month in August. He resides in New Brunswick, N.J. and began driving at National Carriers in 2018. “Joel is our local dedicated driver on the East Coast,” said Mark Phillips, vice president of Refrigerated Operations. “This award for him is long overdue. Joel is always a professional and willing to do what is needed to complete the task at hand. He safely and efficiently operates in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. He has always been a go-to driver who performs. Simply put, he is a true professional. We appreciate Joel.” Rosado operates his truck within the Greater New York area servicing accounts throughout the region. What began as a specialized route for one customer has morphed into a vital service for many. “I chose National Carriers because the company is not too big or too small,” Rosado said. “During orientation, things just felt right. The best thing about working here is that everyone is on a first-name basis. I am familiar with the New York City traffic and directions. ‘Elite’ fleet drivers not familiar with the metro can drop their loaded trailers and head out of the area while I complete our customer deliveries. This is less stressful for both incoming drivers and me. I know the neighborhoods, and I know what needs done. I appreciate National Carriers recognizing me with this award.” Celestine was recognized as September Driver of the Month. She joined the “Elite” Fleet in October of 2018 and currently delivers refrigerated products to customers across the midwestern and eastern states. “This recognition is well deserved,” said Aaron Donbar, Celestine’s driver manager. “She has an ‘in it, to win it’ attitude. April is a team player who has her head on straight and stays focused. She is professional and does a damn good job.” As a past resident of New York City, Celestine feels confident with shipments and deliveries into difficult areas. “My granddad on my mother’s side was a trucker; my dad was a trucker,” Celestine said. “In 2004 I earned my Class-A CDL and became a trucker. Before my CDL, I used to watch trucks come and go on Interstate 10 and wondered where they were coming from or going to. I enjoy seeing the United States and I only have one state left to visit that I have not traveled to. Being named Driver of the Month was a great surprise to me.”

Clearinghouse Phase II: Make sure your team understands the latest FMCSA testing requirements

Cliff Abbott - January 3, 2025

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse has unquestionably achieved much of its intended purpose. The burden of chasing down former employers of drivers in an effort to obtain drug and alcohol testing results has changed drastically. The required information is now just a query away in the Clearinghouse. No more playing the system One key benefit is that drivers who failed drug or alcohol tests are no longer able to apply to carrier after carrier in an attempt to find one that won’t perform background checks before making a hire. Clearinghouse regulations specify that those drivers shouldn’t be eligible to perform safety-sensitive functions until they undergo a return to duty (RTD) program administered by a substance abuse professional (SAP) — but without a sound reporting system, states that issued CDLs to those drivers remained unaware. All of that began to change in January 2017, the effective date of rule that established the Clearinghouse. Carriers are now required to report testing results to a central entity and query the same entity to review the records of prospective drivers. Of course, it took a few years for the Clearinghouse database to build, but carriers could now determine if a driver was in a prohibited status with a few mouse clicks. Phase II now in effect A second final ruling, known as “Clearinghouse II,” took effect on November 18, 2024. Under the provisions of the ruling, state driver’s licensing agencies (SDLAs) are now required to downgrade the licenses of any driver in a “prohibited” status until they’ve completed an RTD program as recorded in the Clearinghouse. Before Phase II went into effect, state agencies had the ability to submit queries; however, the individual computer systems in each state weren’t always able to communicate with the Clearinghouse to receive status changes in a timely manner. Now, all that’s changed. Oral fluid testing is close Another Final Ruling, effective December 5, 2024, clarifies training requirements for Oral Fluid Testing collectors. The ruling may seem irrelevant, given the long wait for the DOT to certify laboratories to test specimens, but it’s an important clarification. The original ruling specified that those who train the collectors have at least a year of experience performing collections, but until the program actually gets underway, no one will have ANY experience. The laboratory issue may be sorted soon as well. “We feel that testing should be able to begin by the end of the 1st quarter in 2025 and should definitely be going by the 2nd quarter,” said Jo McGuire, executive director of the National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association. “All of the labs are in validity testing with the approved device now.” McGuire remarked that it’s important for carriers to be ready when the testing becomes official. “We are continuing to train trainers and are ready to train collectors as of December 6. Devices are now available to order from Abbott.” Abbott Toxicology will be a supplier of testing supplies and a provider of laboratory services. The delay in certification, it appears, occurred because labs didn’t want to invest in supplies and process until testing cut-off levels were established in a Final Rule. Once certain that the levels had not changed from the original proposed rule, progress was made quickly. Benefits of oral fluid testing Besides offering another option for testing, Oral Fluid collection eliminates some of the issues around urine testing. Since the need for observed tests is gone, questions of gender and who is qualified to observe are mute. Oral fluid collection does away with shy bladder incidents as well as dilution or alteration of specimens. Collection facility regulations are reduced as well, since the need for a private bathroom is eliminated, as are requirements to restrict access to water. Impact on carrier policy During the 2024 Accelerate! Conference and Expo hosted by the Women In Trucking Association, a distinguished panel of drug and alcohol policy experts moderated by McGuire discussed the need for each carrier to have a strong policy that is clearly communicated. That policy should include the carrier’s right to use Oral Fluid testing at its discretion. “It needs to be in the policy for pre-employment,” said Mia Hicks, manager of risk and compliance at DISA Global Solutions. “We’re going to do this and if it escalates, we’re going to do that.” Don’t wait to update policies Even with constantly shifting processes, motor carrier policies need to be clear and must be shared with everyone concerned prior to actual testing. Prospective drivers should be informed that they will be subject to any form of testing for drugs and alcohol that the carrier deems appropriate, within the laws and regulations in effect at the time of testing. Still waiting for hair follicle testing A long-awaited ruling about another form of testing still hasn’t happened. The use of Hair Follicle Testing for DOT supervised employees, included in the FAST Act that became effective in December 2015, has still not been approved for use. In fact, the Spring 2024 Unified Agenda published by the Department of Health and Human Services called for a proposed rulemaking by October 2024 to include hair testing in Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs. It didn’t happen. “I recently heard a great quote that summarizes this slow walk in a nutshell,” said David Heller, senior vice president of safety and government affairs for the Truckload Carriers Association. “Innovators will beat regulators every time, which is evidenced by the success stories of motor carriers across the country that have adopted hair follicle testing for their own programs.” While hair follicle testing results are not currently shared in the Clearinghouse, some carriers have been using the technology as a supplement to the USDOT’s testing regimen. Hair follicle testing has proven superior to urine testing for identifying drug use much farther in the past, and it provides many of the benefits of oral fluid testing, such as gender issues and elimination of the need for bathrooms. “TCA has not been quiet on this issue,” Heller said. “This topic has been discussed with both regulators and legislators in DC, and it will continue to be brought up until our industry has guidelines that will allow for this alternative measure.”

ATA’s efforts pay off: Credentialing reform bill clears final hurdle

Dana Guthrie - January 2, 2025

WASHINGTON — The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is applauding the House passage of the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act; the bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “For far too long, the truck drivers who keep our country running have been subjected to an outdated, inefficient credentialing system that does not respect their time and money,” said Chris Spear, ATA President. “That begins to change today. By taking the final step needed to eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, Congress will provide essential supply chain workers with overdue relief from redundant background checks and fees. The Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act is a bipartisan victory for common sense. We commend Members of Congress, especially Senator Roger Wicker and Congressman Garret Graves, who stood up for truckers, making it easier and less costly for hardworking Americans to obtain the credentials they need to do their jobs.” The Senate passed the bill unanimously in November. In a press release, the ATA thanked Representatives Garret Graves (R-Louisiana), Adam Smith (D-Washington), Mark Green (R-Tennessee), Michael Guest (R-Mississippi), Salud Carbajal (D-California) and Dina Titus (D-Nevada) for authoring the bill and working tirelessly to get it across the finish line. ATA also thanked House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) for his instrumental role in scheduling a vote before the end of the congressional session. This was the final step in the legislative process since the bill, which was introduced in the Senate by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), and Angus King (I-Maine), passed the upper chamber unanimously last month. ATA has been at the forefront of the push to pass this bipartisan legislation to eliminate redundant fees and background checks for essential supply chain workers, according to the release. Beginning last year, ATA assembled a group of over 150 organizations representing trucking, rail, energy, organized labor, agriculture, third-party logistics providers and other key supply chain stakeholders in support of the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act. “The bill has been a mainstay in ATA’s Call on Washington program this year, which has facilitated 700 meetings between ATA’s member companies and lawmakers on Capitol Hill since the beginning of this Congress,” the release said. “ATA also leveraged its 50-state federation to put pressure on key Members of Congress. As part of this comprehensive, ongoing advocacy effort, ATA President and CEO Chris Spear headed to Capitol Hill to meet one-on-one with the bill’s original sponsors and committee leaders to shore up support.” According to the release, the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act cuts through red tape to allow workers to apply existing valid background checks to multiple TSA-managed credentialing programs, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) programs. By eliminating duplicative screenings and harmonizing these programs, the bill would codify formal recommendations by the Government Accountability Office dating back to 2007. These recommendations were reaffirmed in 2020 in a comprehensive security assessment conducted by the Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center. The bill does not make any modifications to the backend security threat assessment conducted on individual applicants, ensuring that they undergo the same level of review as they do under current law.

ATA names 5 drivers as national finalists for Driver of the Year Award

Dana Guthrie - January 2, 2025

WASHINGTON — The American Trucking Associations has announced the five professional truck driver finalists for the 2024 ATA National Driver of the Year Award sponsored by DMC Insurance, one of the trucking industry’s top awards. According to an ATA press release, the award acknowledges one notable professional driver for their career-long professional achievements and their excellence and commitment to safety on the road. The National Driver of the Year is selected from a pool of outstanding state Drivers of the Year submitted by ATA’s affiliated state trucking associations. Each candidate’s qualifications and achievements are examined by a group of industry safety professional judges who narrow down the nominees to a group of finalists. Here are the finalists for 2024: Jay Williams has spent 20 years of his driving career with TCW Inc., accumulating over three million accident-free miles. Williams was the winner of the TCW 20 Year Safe Driving Award in 2023 as well as becoming the Tennessee Driver of the Year in 2024. Rollie Fugate has driven for Wal-Mart for 24.5 of his 47.5-year career on the roadways. Fugate has accumulated an impressive six million accident-free miles. Mr. Fugate was awarded the Nevada Driver of the Year Award for 2023. Michael Bortz has driven for Sorensen Transport for 21 of his 43 total years in the industry. Bortz has accumulated 4.85 million accident-free miles over his career without sustaining a single accident. Recently Michael was awarded the 2024 Montana Driver of the Year Award. Danny Tankersly has driven for WEL Companies for 14 of his 36 career years as a driver. During his time on the road, Mr. Tankersly has amassed 4.6 million accident-free miles and counting. Tankersly has been awarded the WEL Companies Driver of the Year Award 11 times, as well as a 13-year Safe Driving Award Winner, and recently the WMCA 2023 Driver of the Year. Thomas Miller has driven for 25 years for Prime Inc. out of Missouri. Miller has accumulated 3.5 million accident-free miles as a Prime employee and 3.8 million accident-free miles in his career. He has also been awarded multiple awards including but not limited to MOTA Professional Excellence Award (2019), Missouri Trucking Association Driver of the Year (2016/2023), as well as serving as one of ATA America’s Road Team Captains. The Safety Management Council Awards & Recognition Committee judges each video submission and selects a winner. The winner will be announced at ATA’s Safety, Security and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition, which will be held in Louisville, Kentucky, April 23-25.