J.B. Hunt Hits 50,000 Autonomous Trucking Miles with Kodiak Robotics
In a significant milestone for the trucking industry, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., in partnership with Kodiak Robotics and Bridgestone, has achieved 50,000 miles of autonomous long-haul trucking. This milestone highlights the potential of autonomous technology in transforming logistics and transportation. Key Highlights: Autonomous Milestone: J.B. Hunt’s collaboration with Kodiak Robotics has reached 50,000 autonomous…
The Aftermath of Hurricane Debby: Impact on Trucking and Shipments into Ports
Hurricane Debby has recently made headlines with its devastating impact on several coastal regions. As communities begin the recovery process, one industry significantly affected by this natural disaster is trucking and shipments into ports. In this post, we’ll explore how Hurricane Debby has disrupted these critical supply chain components and what it means for the…
Diesel Prices Continued Decline Amid Market Volatility
Diesel prices have been on a rollercoaster ride over the past few months, reflecting the volatile nature of global oil markets. The Department of Energy/Energy Information Administration (DOE/EIA) has reported a steady decline in diesel prices, marking significant implications for the transportation and logistics industries. In this post, we will explore the recent trends, underlying…
The CrowdStrike Outage: Impact on Freight Movement and Future Prevention Measures
On July 19, 2024, a critical software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike caused a widespread IT outage that significantly disrupted the global supply chain. This event had far-reaching consequences, particularly for the trucking industry, which is a vital component of freight movement worldwide. The Incident and Its Immediate Effects The faulty update led to the…
Upcoming October 2024 Rulemaking: How Broker Transparency Enforcement Will Affect Truckers
The ongoing issue of broker transparency and the enforcement of 49 CFR 371.3 significantly impacts truckers, particularly owner-operators and small business truckers. This regulation requires brokers to maintain detailed transaction records and provide access to these records to motor carriers. However, the lack of stringent enforcement has left many truckers vulnerable to unfair practices by…
Legal Battle Over Biden’s Independent Contractor Rule Moves Forward
The ongoing legal and political battle over the Biden administration’s independent contractor rule has reached a critical juncture. The rule, which was finalized in January 2024 and took effect on March 11, 2024, aims to provide clearer guidelines for classifying workers as employees or independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). However, it…
Market Trends Of The Week: Seasonal Patterns and Capacity Shifts in the Dry Van Sector
The dry van market has been experiencing notable trends and shifts recently, with tender rejection rates and spot market rates showcasing interesting patterns. As we delve into the latest data, it’s clear that the market is navigating through seasonal changes and external influences, reflecting both historical parallels and current dynamics. Elevated Dry Van Tender Rejection…
Multi-State Raid Shuts Down Major Cargo and Vehicle Theft Operation
In a coordinated multi-state operation, law enforcement agencies have successfully dismantled a large-scale cargo and vehicle theft ring, resulting in the arrest of 51 individuals. This operation, conducted by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and other law enforcement agencies, marks a significant victory against organized theft groups (OTGs) that have been responsible for substantial economic…
The Rising Tide of Nuclear Verdicts: Implications for the Trucking Industry
The trucking industry has been grappling with the increasing frequency and magnitude of nuclear verdicts, which are jury awards exceeding $10 million. These verdicts not only pose significant financial risks but also highlight systemic issues within the industry and the legal landscape. Recent high-profile cases against Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, and CH Robinson illustrate the…
DOT Awards $1.8B for Freight Projects and Other Transportation Work
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has made a substantial investment in the nation’s infrastructure, awarding $1.8 billion for various freight projects and other essential transportation work. This funding aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of freight movement across the country, benefiting the trucking industry and the wider economy. Key Allocations and Projects Several…
Get Ready for CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2024: What Truck Drivers Need to Know
From July 7 to 13, 2024, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will conduct its annual Operation Safe Driver Week across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This initiative aims to enhance road safety by focusing on reducing unsafe driving behaviors through a combination of enforcement and education. Focus Areas for 2024 This year’s Operation Safe…
House Approves $200 Million for Truck Parking: A Game Changer for Drivers
In a significant move to address the chronic shortage of truck parking spaces, the U.S. House of Representatives has approved $200 million in funding aimed at expanding truck parking facilities across the nation. This allocation is part of the broader Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which seeks to enhance infrastructure and safety for the trucking industry. Why…
Combatting Cargo Theft: New Bill Introduced to Protect Truckers and the Supply Chain
Cargo theft is a growing problem in the U.S., with losses amounting to $15 billion to $30 billion annually. Recently, California Congressman David G. Valadao introduced the Safeguarding our Supply Chains Act to address this issue. This bill aims to stop rampant theft in supply chains by enhancing law enforcement collaboration, tracking theft trends, and…
Shifting Freight Markets: Will the Summer Surge Last?
As we head into the busy summer season, truckers across the U.S. are facing a dynamic and shifting freight landscape. Recent data and market analysis highlight several critical trends that could impact your business operations and decision-making. Here’s what you need to know. Texas Gulf Coast Ports: A Surge in Freight Movements In May, Texas…
The Reopening of the Fort McHenry Channel: A Major Milestone for the Port of Baltimore
After more than two months of extensive salvage and restoration efforts, the Fort McHenry Federal Channel in Baltimore has fully reopened, marking a significant milestone for one of the busiest ports in the United States. This reopening is a pivotal development for the Port of Baltimore, which faced severe disruptions following the catastrophic collapse of…
The Legal and Ethical Implications of Double Brokering in the Freight Industry
In the intricate world of freight logistics, double brokering has emerged as a significant problem, raising questions about legality and ethical conduct. This deceptive practice, often cloaked in the guise of legitimate operations, can cause substantial financial and operational disruptions within the industry. What is Double Brokering? Double brokering occurs when a broker books a…
OOIDA Sues EPA Over Zero-Carbon Regulation: What It Means for Truck Drivers
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) recently made headlines by filing a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This legal battle is rooted in the EPA’s new zero-carbon regulation, aimed at drastically reducing emissions from the trucking industry. But what does this mean for truck drivers? Let’s break it down. Understanding the EPA’s Zero-Carbon…
Benchmark Diesel Price Plummets for Eighth Consecutive Week Amid OPEC+ Moves
Consistent Decline in Diesel Prices The benchmark diesel price has fallen for the eighth straight week, now at $3.726 per gallon, a total drop of 33.5 cents. This steady decline aligns with the sharp drop in diesel futures, currently at their lowest since May 2023. The decrease is largely attributed to OPEC+’s decision to ease…
Chicago Man Charged with Stealing $9.5 Million Worth of Interstate Shipments
In a shocking revelation that highlights the growing concern of freight theft, a Chicago man has been charged with stealing $9.5 million worth of interstate shipments. This case underscores the vulnerabilities in the supply chain and the need for enhanced security measures in the transportation industry. The Incident: A Brazen Heist The accused, whose identity…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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)…
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…