Surviving The Down Market: Small Fleets in the 2024 Freight Market
The freight market in 2024 presents a challenging landscape for small fleets, with thin profit margins and increasing expenses putting carriers at risk of losses. As we delve into the numbers, it becomes clear why vigilance and strategic planning are crucial for survival in today’s trucking industry. Freight rates…
Final Reminder: CVSA Roadcheck Inspection May 14-16
Next week, the CVSA International Roadcheck will take place, targeting commercial vehicle safety across North America. This crucial safety inspection will particularly focus on alcohol and controlled substances, alongside checking that tractor-protection systems are fully functional. Preparation Checklist: Brakes: Ensure no defects, air leaks, and that all components function properly. Coupling Devices: Check for damage…
Cautious Optimism in the Trucking Industry: Insights from the Latest Bloomberg | Truckstop Survey
The trucking industry is showing signs of a cautious turnaround according to the latest Bloomberg | Truckstop survey, which indicates a mixed but improving sentiment among North American owner-operators and small fleets. The survey, which captures the pulse of carriers in the truckload spot market, noted that despite a challenging quarter, there are encouraging signs…
Navigating the New Normal: Economic Trends and Transitions as 2024 Unfolds
As we navigate the latter half of 2024, the economic outlook appears nuanced, influenced by the remnants of the COVID-19 pandemic and a series of adaptive shifts in market behavior and policy responses. Here’s an overview of potential trends that might shape the remainder of the year: Economic Growth Trends: Predictions suggest a ‘soft landing’…
Reminder: Ensure Your Compliance for the 2024 International Roadcheck
As we approach the 2024 International Roadcheck, scheduled for May 14-16, it’s crucial for the trucking industry to prepare for rigorous inspections by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). This event emphasizes compliance with safety regulations in North America, focusing particularly on vehicle integrity and driver adherence to operating standards. Driver Compliance Focus: During the…
Bolstering Trust and Security: FMCSA’s New Initiative to Combat Registration Fraud
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has launched a dedicated Registration Fraud Team to tackle the persistent issue of registration fraud within the trucking industry. This proactive move aims to assist victims and implement preventive measures to enhance the integrity of the registration system. Fraudulent activities not only undermine operational legitimacy but also lead…
Navigating Election Year Challenges: A Close-Up on Small Trucker Priorities
As the election year progresses, the cacophony of political debates often sidelines critical issues impacting small truckers. Among these are the persistent challenges of inadequate truck parking and the pressing need for accessible restroom facilities at work sites. These concerns, while vital to the well-being and efficiency of truckers, are frequently overlooked as legislative focus…
Navigating the Great Freight Recession: Insights for Truck Drivers and Company Owners
As the trucking industry endures what’s dubbed the “Great Freight Recession,” surpassing two years, truck drivers and company owners face significant challenges. This prolonged downturn, deeper than the COVID-19 bull market’s upheavals, has tested the industry’s resilience. However, recent market indicators like the Outbound Tender Rejection Index (OTRI) and Contract Load Accepted…
Gear Up for Safety: The 2024 International Roadcheck Event
As the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) prepares for its annual International Roadcheck event from May 14-16, 2024, commercial motor vehicle operators across North America should be aware of what’s in store. This crucial three-day enforcement and compliance initiative, taking place across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, represents the largest such program globally,…
Navigating Uncharted Waters: The Impact of Rising Diesel Prices on Truckers and Fleet Owners
In recent months, the transportation and logistics sector has been navigating a challenging landscape, largely shaped by the fluctuating costs of diesel fuel. A pivotal component of this sector’s operational expenses, diesel prices have been on an upward trajectory, reflecting broader trends in the global oil markets. This blog post delves into…
Steering Towards Sustainability: The Impact of California’s Environmental Waivers on Truckers
The recent affirmation by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) authority to grant California the autonomy to impose its own stringent environmental standards has marked a pivotal moment for the trucking industry. This decision, rooted in the lawsuit Ohio vs. EPA, not only upholds…
The Ripple Effect: How a Single Incident on I-95 Unveils Vulnerabilities in Our Economic Lifelines
A recent event on Interstate 95 (I-95) where an oversized rig collided with a rail bridge, resulting in an unexpected closure, has spotlighted the critical vulnerabilities in our nation’s infrastructure and its direct impact on the economy. This artery of commerce, one of the busiest highways in the United States, plays a…
Shifting Gears: How New EPA Emissions Standards Impact the Trucking Industry
The trucking industry stands on the brink of a major transformation, driven by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) latest move to introduce stringent emissions standards for trucks and buses. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to combat climate change, aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of one of the transportation…
The Tightrope Walk of Small Fleet Operators in Today’s Freight Market
In the ever-fluctuating world of freight logistics, small fleet operators find themselves in a precarious position as they navigate the rough waters of today’s market dynamics. March 2024 has unfolded with its own set of challenges, setting a complex stage where freight rates and fuel prices dance in a dangerous tango, leaving…
Navigating the Owner-Operator Contractor Classification Maze: A Legislative Perspective
In recent months, the trucking industry has found itself amidst a whirlwind of legislative changes and regulatory debates. Two recent developments have sparked significant discussion and concern among trucking professionals: the House Committee’s passage of a resolution aiming to repeal a rule instituted by the Biden Department of Labor (DOL) regarding contractors,…
Baltimore’s Key Bridge Collapse: Trucking Industry Bears Brunt of Disruption, Rebuilding Costs Loom Large
The collapse of Baltimore’s Key Bridge has unleashed a wave of disruption rippling through the nation’s transportation networks, with the trucking industry emerging as a frontline casualty of the incident. As a critical link in the supply chain, trucking companies rely heavily on efficient roadways and bridges to transport goods across the…
Class 8 Truck Sales Experience Downturn in February 2024: A Closer Look
In February 2024, the U.S. Class 8 truck market saw a significant downturn, with sales plummeting 12.5% to 17,619 units, marking a notable departure from the sales figures of the same month in the previous year. This downturn extends a challenging trend into its seventh month, emphasizing the ongoing hurdles faced by…
Revolutionizing Roadways: The MOVE Act and Its Impact on Truck Weight Limits
In an era where supply chain resilience has become a focal point of national interest, the introduction of the Modernizing Oversize Vehicle Exemptions (MOVE) Act signals a pivotal shift in federal transportation policy. Spearheaded by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson and Jim Costa, this bipartisan initiative seeks to empower states with greater autonomy to manage truck…
Navigating the Road Ahead: Understanding Hours of Service Regulations for Truck Drivers
The world of commercial trucking is the backbone of the American economy, ensuring that goods and services reach their destinations across the nation. However, the safety of these operations is paramount, not only for the drivers themselves but also for other road users. Central to this safety initiative are the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations,…
Navigating the Highway to Success: Hiring a Class A Commercial Truck Driver in America
The transportation industry is the backbone of the American economy, and Class A commercial truck drivers are the vital links that keep this system running smoothly. Hiring a qualified driver is not just about filling a vacancy; it’s about ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your operations. However, the road to finding the right…
Steering Clear of Scams: Protecting the American Trucking Industry
In an age where technology intersects every facet of life, the American trucking industry is not immune to the pervasive threat of scams. These fraudulent activities not only pose significant financial risks but also jeopardize the security and trust within the sector. As the backbone of the U.S. economy, ensuring the safety and integrity of…
On the Move: Staying Active for Truck Drivers
In the vast expanse of highways crisscrossing the landscape, truck drivers play a pivotal role in keeping the wheels of commerce turning. However, the very nature of their job, which often demands up to 14 hours of sitting behind the wheel each day, poses significant health challenges. The sedentary lifestyle that comes with truck driving…
Navigating the Highway to Health: Ready-to-Eat Options for Truck Drivers
The life of a truck driver involves long hours on the road, leading to unique challenges in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Traditional truck stop fare is often convenient and satisfying, offering the comfort of hot meals and quick snacks. However, this convenience can come at a cost to health, as many options are high in…
The Convoy Closure: A Wake-Up Call for Digital Freight Brokerages
The recent shutdown of Convoy, a once-celebrated digital freight brokerage, has sent ripples through the trucking and logistics industry, marking a significant moment of reflection for the adoption of “Book It Now” technologies and digital brokerage models. This event, characterized by a combination of a freight recession and a shift in capital market dynamics, sheds…
Navigating the Uncharted Waters: The Recent Network Outage and Its Future Implications for the Trucking Industry
The recent AT&T network outage, which also impacted Verizon and T-Mobile users, has sent ripples through the transportation industry, underscoring the critical reliance on digital connectivity. This incident not only disrupted day-to-day operations but also highlighted potential vulnerabilities within the technological infrastructure of the trucking sector. The Immediate Aftermath and Hypothetical Future Scenarios The outage…
Maximizing Performance and Longevity: The Essential Guide to Oil Maintenance in Commercial Diesel Trucks
In the demanding world of commercial transportation, the reliability and efficiency of a diesel semi truck are paramount. One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of maintaining such high-performance machines is regular oil maintenance. Understanding the importance of oil changes, the frequency at which they should be performed, what to watch for during…
Maximizing Mileage: Essential Tire Care for Commercial Semi Trucks
In the world of commercial transportation, the integrity and performance of semi-truck tires are pivotal. Not only do they ensure the safety of the driver and cargo, but they also significantly influence the vehicle’s operational costs. Proper tire maintenance can prevent premature wear and extend tire life, saving fleets thousands of dollars annually. This blog…
Cracking Down on Fraud: How New FMCSA Regulations Are Changing the Game for Trucking Brokers
In an industry that’s as vast and vital as trucking, the role of brokers is crucial. They act as the middlemen, connecting trucking companies with clients needing to ship goods. However, this space has not been without its challenges, particularly concerning fraud. Recognizing the need for stricter oversight, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)…
Dispatch Decisions: Self-Dispatch vs. Using a Dispatch Service
In the trucking industry, the choice between self-dispatching and using a dispatch service is crucial for owner-operators, influencing not only day-to-day operations but also the bottom line. Both options have their advantages and challenges, impacting efficiency, profitability, and control over the business. Here, we delve into the details, comparing self-dispatch and dispatch services to aid…
Navigating the Crossroads: Lease or Own Authority for Owner-Operators
As an owner-operator in the trucking industry, deciding between leasing with a carrier or obtaining your own authority is a pivotal choice that shapes your career, financial prospects, and operational freedom. This decision hinges on several factors, including personal preferences, financial readiness, and long-term goals. Below, we explore the nuances of each option, providing insights…
New Jersey Shakes Up Trucking Insurance: What You Need to Know
Imagine you’re running a trucking company. You’ve got big trucks rumbling across the country, carrying everything from apples to zebra-print couches. Running these trucks isn’t cheap, and there are three big costs you always have to deal with: fuel (because trucks are thirsty!), maintenance (because things break), and insurance (because accidents happen). Now, New Jersey…
The Trucker Union Launches BrokerDex
In an exciting development for the trucking industry, The Trucker Union is proud to announce the launch of BrokerDex, an innovative directory designed to empower carriers like never before. In a landscape where brokers have traditionally held the reins, monitoring carriers with a variety of tools and metrics, we believe it’s time to level the…