Podcasts about fmcsa

Dry van rates are surging nationwide, despite weak trucking volumes and low tender rejections, an inversion that points to hard supply contraction driven by behavioral reactions to immigration enforcement efforts. We also analyze the broader, longer-term metrics from the Logistics Managers' Index, which recorded a September reading of 57.4, marking the seventh consecutive month the index has remained below its all-time average. This confirms slow, steady growth rather than a roaring expansion, and for the third straight month, a "negative freight inversion" occurred where transportation capacity grew faster than transportation pricing. In Washington, Derek Barrs was officially confirmed as the eighth administrator of the FMCSA, a move that industry groups like the American Trucking Associations and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association had been anxious to see confirmed. Furthermore, new research links truck drivers who violate English language proficiency rules to significantly higher safety risks—with inspections involving an ELP violation having two and a half times the number of total non-ELP violations—though the study cautions this is a correlation and not direct causation. We provide a quick carrier pulse check confirming ongoing market pressures, highlighted by San Diego-based Epic Lightning Fast Service LLC permanently closing operations and laying off 116 employees by the end of October due to persistent challenging market conditions. However, there is positive news in the LTL space, as Daylight Transport was named the top overall LTL carrier for the second consecutive year and Old Dominion Freight Line was recognized as the top national carrier for the 16th straight year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Donald Trump's expansion of tariffs, which includes a new ⁠25% duty on imported medium and heavy-duty trucks⁠ is set to begin November 1st. This decision follows a federal probe under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act and is aimed at protecting U.S. manufacturers like Peterbilt and Kenworth. The broadcast also covers the escalating labor situation at Canada Post, which has presented a scaled-back offer to ⁠50,000 striking mail carriers⁠ that increases the likelihood of job cuts. The company's proposed collective bargaining agreement no longer includes a signing bonus due to its deteriorating financial position and plans to eliminate lifetime job security provisions for urban unit employees. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Transportation has issued an emergency federal order leading to ⁠California and Oregon suspending the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs⁠. This crackdown follows an FMCSA audit that found widespread non-compliance, including that more than 25% of California's non-domiciled CDLs were improperly issued. Don't miss the upcoming FreightWaves TV programming, including ⁠Loaded and Rolling⁠ and ⁠Check Call⁠. You can also join the leaders shaping the future of freight at the F3: Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga, Tennessee, which is just two weeks away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of FreightWaves' What The Truck?!?, host Malcolm Harris dives into how technology is quietly reshaping the freight world. From AI-powered visibility to smarter dock operations, this show takes you under the hood of innovation in logistics. Guests: Wesley Montague, CEO & Founder of ShipItPro — shares how his platform is tackling freight damage and cargo claims head-on, saving shippers billions through proactive tech and smarter communication across the supply chain. David Mendelson, Chief Product Officer at Super Dispatch — talks scaling logistics tech, the evolution of SuperPay, and how invisible AI is making carriers' lives easier (and getting them paid faster). Headlines: - ⁠U.S. DOT halts non-domiciled CDLs — what it means for illegal operators⁠ - ⁠USPS carrier shot by Amazon driver raises questions about delivery safety⁠ - ⁠Red Sea tensions impact global trade routes amid Gaza peace talks⁠ - ⁠Derek Bars confirmed as new FMCSA chief, signaling tighter regulatory focus⁠ ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's daily update tackles extreme market volatility, starting with the unprecedented regulatory about-face by the California Air Resources Board. ⁠CARB has essentially wiped out the two biggest components of their Advanced Clean Fleets rule⁠, including the High Priority Fleets regulation covering fleets over 50 trucks and rules that were set to bar non-ZEV trucks from port operations. We analyze the looming threat of a federal shutdown,⁠ noting that while essential safety functions like FMCSA roadside inspections and CBP cargo inspections are expected to continue⁠, critical oversight functions will largely cease. Agencies like the Federal Maritime Commission and the Surface Transportation Board, which handles shipping disputes and vital transportation data, will suspend case processing, potentially ⁠leading to increased dwell times at major ports like LA-Long Beach⁠. Moving to efficiency gains, we examine how ⁠AI startup Oatway is tackling the “dirty secret of full truckload”⁠—partially filled trailers—by dynamically matching partial shipments with empty capacity on existing FTL run. This innovation optimizes existing infrastructure using machine learning and ELD data, potentially boosting net annual revenue for carriers by up to 30% while cutting shipper costs by up to 50% compared to traditional LTL. In corporate news, Interstate Personnel Services , the parent company of Paschall Truck Lines, is in⁠ formal talks to acquire J&R Sugar Trucking⁠, which would create a combined fleet of around 2,000 trucks and 5,000 trailers. This merger strategically adds temperature-controlled refrigerated transport capacity to IPS's existing dry van network, highlighting the current premium placed on reefer capacity. Finally, Texas has ⁠halted the issuance of Commercial Driver's Licenses to non-citizens⁠, including DACA recipients and refugees, following a federal directive aimed at tightening commercial licensing rules. Since 2015, Texas has issued almost 52,000 non-domiciled CDLs, and this regulatory move presents an immediate challenge for fleet staffing and recruitment efforts across the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's daily update tackles extreme market volatility, starting with the unprecedented regulatory about-face by the California Air Resources Board. CARB has essentially wiped out the two biggest components of their Advanced Clean Fleets rule, including the High Priority Fleets regulation covering fleets over 50 trucks and rules that were set to bar non-ZEV trucks from port operations. We analyze the looming threat of a federal shutdown, noting that while essential safety functions like FMCSA roadside inspections and CBP cargo inspections are expected to continue, critical oversight functions will largely cease. Agencies like the Federal Maritime Commission and the Surface Transportation Board, which handles shipping disputes and vital transportation data, will suspend case processing, potentially leading to increased dwell times at major ports like LA-Long Beach. Moving to efficiency gains, we examine how AI startup Oatway is tackling the “dirty secret of full truckload”—partially filled trailers—by dynamically matching partial shipments with empty capacity on existing FTL run. This innovation optimizes existing infrastructure using machine learning and ELD data, potentially boosting net annual revenue for carriers by up to 30% while cutting shipper costs by up to 50% compared to traditional LTL. In corporate news, Interstate Personnel Services , the parent company of Paschall Truck Lines, is in formal talks to acquire J&R Sugar Trucking, which would create a combined fleet of around 2,000 trucks and 5,000 trailers. This merger strategically adds temperature-controlled refrigerated transport capacity to IPS's existing dry van network, highlighting the current premium placed on reefer capacity. Finally, Texas has halted the issuance of Commercial Driver's Licenses to non-citizens, including DACA recipients and refugees, following a federal directive aimed at tightening commercial licensing rules. Since 2015, Texas has issued almost 52,000 non-domiciled CDLs, and this regulatory move presents an immediate challenge for fleet staffing and recruitment efforts across the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All eyes are on Washington today as the Supreme Court is scheduled to discuss whether to grant review in two critical broker liability cases under the F4A. The fundamental issue is whether the safety exception, which allows state action for negligence causing physical harm, extends to third-party logistics providers or brokers. The FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database modernization, part of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's broader Pro-Trucker Package, has officially gone live with Phase One. This long overdue tech upgrade is mobile-optimized and creates an official federal mechanism for reporting broker complaints, which can directly influence a company's safety ratings and audit priorities. The Surface Transportation Board is seeking more time to review the proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern by Union Pacific. The board has proposed a procedural schedule that slightly tweaks the original timeline and grants the Justice Department and Department of Transportation an extra 15 days to file their official comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Starting with high stakes legal risks surrounding broker liability, we explore the Supreme Court's scheduled conference to discuss whether to grant certiorari on two landmark cases, Cox v. TQL and Montgomery v. Caribe II, which hinges on interpreting the safety exception in the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act (F4A). We shift gears to financial risks, where dry van contract rates have remained stalled and fell only a marginal 0.3% year-over-year as of early September. This flat rate environment is extremely stressful because the average cost to operate a truck has increased 33% since 2019, compared to only a 17% rise in contract rates over the same period, leading to massive carrier attrition. Operational security is also paramount as cargo theft tactics are becoming incredibly sophisticated, with Mexico serving as the epicenter and accounting for 75% of all North American incidents in Q3. Furthermore, we analyze the surprise leadership shift at CSX, where the board named Steve Angel as the new president and CEO, following activist investor pressure over persistent underperformance metrics compared to other Class I carriers. Finally, we cover the ultimate labor battleground: the fight for driver hours and pay, as the FMCSA proposes pilot programs that could allow for up to 17-hour driving windows. Many drivers argue that the solution is not more hours but mandatory federally-mandated detention pay, suggesting compensation should kick in after just 30 minutes of waiting at docks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Starting with high stakes legal risks surrounding broker liability, we explore the Supreme Court's scheduled conference to discuss whether to grant certiorari on two landmark cases, Cox v. TQL and Montgomery v. Caribe II, which hinges on interpreting the safety exception in the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act (F4A). We shift gears to financial risks, where dry van contract rates have remained stalled and fell only a marginal 0.3% year-over-year as of early September. This flat rate environment is extremely stressful because the average cost to operate a truck has increased 33% since 2019, compared to only a 17% rise in contract rates over the same period, leading to massive carrier attrition. Operational security is also paramount as cargo theft tactics are becoming incredibly sophisticated, with Mexico serving as the epicenter and accounting for 75% of all North American incidents in Q3. Furthermore, we analyze the surprise leadership shift at CSX, where the board named Steve Angel as the new president and CEO, following activist investor pressure over persistent underperformance metrics compared to other Class I carriers. Finally, we cover the ultimate labor battleground: the fight for driver hours and pay, as the FMCSA proposes pilot programs that could allow for up to 17-hour driving windows. Many drivers argue that the solution is not more hours but mandatory federally-mandated detention pay, suggesting compensation should kick in after just 30 minutes of waiting at docks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All eyes are on Washington today as the Supreme Court is scheduled to discuss whether to grant review in two critical broker liability cases under the F4A. The fundamental issue is whether the safety exception, which allows state action for negligence causing physical harm, extends to third-party logistics providers or brokers. The FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database modernization, part of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's broader Pro-Trucker Package, has officially gone live with Phase One. This long overdue tech upgrade is mobile-optimized and creates an official federal mechanism for reporting broker complaints, which can directly influence a company's safety ratings and audit priorities. The Surface Transportation Board is seeking more time to review the proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern by Union Pacific. The board has proposed a procedural schedule that slightly tweaks the original timeline and grants the Justice Department and Department of Transportation an extra 15 days to file their official comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Friday edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Malcolm Harris is in Chattanooga breaking down the week's biggest headlines and talking with industry titans. First, we dive into the FMCSA's new emergency rule that immediately restricts the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs. Then, we cover President Trump's new tariffs targeting heavy trucks and other goods, which could lead to higher costs for imported trucks and parts. Other topics include Volvo making side curtain airbags a standard feature on all new North American models and a CDL testing scam in Massachusetts. This episode features two incredible guests: Kevin Nolan:  Founder of Nolan Transportation Group (NTG) and the mastermind behind OTR Solutions, Marquee Insurance, PayHawk, and Sope Creek Capital. Kevin joins Malcolm in the studio to discuss everything from building a business and evolving with the industry to their shared love for Atlanta hip-hop. Kevin also gives a preview of the epic after-parties planned for the F3: Future of Freight Festival, including specialty cocktails, an 80s cover band, and live midget wrestling. Brandon Wiseman:  President of Truck Safe Consulting. Brandon provides an expert legal breakdown of the FMCSA's emergency rule on non-domiciled CDLs. He clarifies that while there are an estimated 200,000 such CDL holders, the rule will likely impact a smaller percentage by narrowing eligibility criteria. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The biggest global shift is the cancellation of the de minimis rule, which previously offered a duty-free pass for low-value parcels but now adds huge friction by requiring formal customs entries. In response to this turbulence, companies like DHL are pouring millions into compliance, hiring over 880 new customs experts and investing heavily in AI and digital platforms to manage the rising complexity. The U.S. trucking market faces a capacity crisis marked by systemic overcapacity—a 54% surge in for-hire carriers since 2018 compared to only a 1.2% rise in freight volume. This environment has enabled dangerous "chameleon carriers" linked to hundreds of deaths, prompting the FMCSA to issue an emergency rule severely restricting non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs). Carriers must prepare for major cost inflation starting October 2025, when the U.S. is set to slap a new 25% import tariff on heavy-duty trucks, hitting an equipment market already reeling from low orders. Adding to regulatory uncertainty, the Department of Justice is seeking to dismiss California's lawsuit over Congress overturning key EPA waivers, even as Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs) make driving easier but eliminate the traditional mechanical knowledge defining professional skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's the real problem in trucking right now? Are there too many regulations? Or lack of reinforcement? Find out in this episode with our returning guest, Adam Wingfield of Innovative Logistics Group! Adam discusses the FMCSA's staffing crisis, what really creates safety gaps across the industry, the disconnect between federal and state regulations that leaves us with 48 to 50 different standards instead of a national approach, and why political swings only exacerbate the issue. We also cover safety audit delays, misconceptions surrounding language barriers, how social media noise distracts from real solutions, the broker accountability in today's excess capacity market, and why treating carriers right now will pay off when things tighten!   About Adam Wingfield Adam is the Founder and Managing Director of Innovative Logistics Group. The Charlotte, NC based company is a Trucking Consulting and Carrier Services firm that focuses on providing resources and success guidance to small carriers. Adam a South Carolina native and 21 year industry vet, started in the industry in 2000 as a OTR company driver and quickly progressed to fleet ownership purchasing his first semi truck at 23 years old. Adam began his collegiate study at Johnson C. Smith University where he begun his studies to go on to complete his degree, Magna Cum Laude in Business Management/Supply Chain from Strayer University.  As a trucking visionary, he managed to amass a portfolio of trucks under management as well as progressing into executive mentorship all before the age of 30. Driven by his passion for success, Innovative Logistics has helped thousands of carriers small and large with countless resources and mentorship.   Connect with Adam Website: https://www.thetruckingconsultants.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-wingfield-012b523a/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/adamlwingfield  

On this Friday edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Malcolm Harris is in Chattanooga breaking down the week's biggest headlines and talking with industry titans.First, we dive into the FMCSA's new emergency rule that immediately restricts the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs. Then, we cover President Trump's new tariffs targeting heavy trucks and other goods, which could lead to higher costs for imported trucks and parts. Other topics include Volvo making side curtain airbags a standard feature on all new North American models and a CDL testing scam in Massachusetts.This episode features two incredible guests: Kevin Nolan:  Founder of Nolan Transportation Group (NTG) and the mastermind behind OTR Solutions, Marquee Insurance, PayHawk, and Sope Creek Capital. Kevin joins Malcolm in the studio to discuss everything from building a business and evolving with the industry to their shared love for Atlanta hip-hop. Kevin also gives a preview of the epic after-parties planned for the F3: Future of Freight Festival, including specialty cocktails, an 80s cover band, and live midget wrestling. Brandon Wiseman:  President of Truck Safe Consulting. Brandon provides an expert legal breakdown of the FMCSA's emergency rule on non-domiciled CDLs. He clarifies that while there are an estimated 200,000 such CDL holders, the rule will likely impact a smaller percentage by narrowing eligibility criteria. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The biggest global shift is the cancellation of the de minimis rule, which previously offered a duty-free pass for low-value parcels but now adds huge friction by requiring formal customs entries. In response to this turbulence, companies like DHL are pouring millions into compliance, hiring over 880 new customs experts and investing heavily in AI and digital platforms to manage the rising complexity. The U.S. trucking market faces a capacity crisis marked by systemic overcapacity—a 54% surge in for-hire carriers since 2018 compared to only a 1.2% rise in freight volume. This environment has enabled dangerous "chameleon carriers" linked to hundreds of deaths, prompting the FMCSA to issue an emergency rule severely restricting non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs). Carriers must prepare for major cost inflation starting October 2025, when the U.S. is set to slap a new 25% import tariff on heavy-duty trucks, hitting an equipment market already reeling from low orders. Adding to regulatory uncertainty, the Department of Justice is seeking to dismiss California's lawsuit over Congress overturning key EPA waivers, even as Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs) make driving easier but eliminate the traditional mechanical knowledge defining professional skill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following the regulatory changes that led to a 30% drop in express volumes from China/Hong Kong, DHL surges customs agent hiring as new tariffs confuse importers. Despite sourcing diversification driving double-digit growth from countries like Vietnam and Mexico, DHL Express is forecasting an unusually muted peak season lift of just 20% to 25%, down significantly from the typical 40% to 50% jump. Domestically, we dive into the contentious legal battle over California's Advanced Clean Trucks Rule (ACT) as the Federal goverment fires back in court over California waiver cancellation. Owner-operators, who face astronomical repair costs like $21,000 for emissions equipment on a $30,000 truck, argue that these standards dramatically drive up operating expenses, leading major associations to back regulatory rollbacks, as noted in Truckers back Trump's emissions rollback at EPA. The soft freight market highlights the intense need for financial agility, illustrated by a recent small carrier filing for Chapter 11, where their lawyer stressed that the cash needed for operations “doesn't generate itself”. This scenario emphasizes why the reliance on factoring services is now a critical lifeline for many smaller outfits struggling in the current economic environment, as detailed in Small carrier's bankruptcy spells out need for factoring. We examine how the annual corn harvest creates a short but lucrative peak season for Midwestern carriers, relying heavily on the FMCSA agricultural commodity exemption to maximize hours and earnings, as explored in How the corn harvest season changes freight networks across the Midwest. Finally, we analyze the structural shifts impacting the rails following the Union Pacific/Norfolk Southern proposed merger, where a union job guarantee meant to secure support is being widely warned against by former executives, as heard in Rail merger: Lifetime job is great “until you are stuck in it”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transport Topics is the news leader in trucking and freight transportation. Today's briefing covers trucking tonnage in August, an audit at FMCSA, and Performance Food Group adding a new member to its board amid merger discussions with US Foods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transport Topics is the news leader in trucking and freight transportation. Today's briefing covers an increase in FMCSA roadside inspections, a federal trial beginning this week involving Amazon, and a new partnership from Uber Freight and Tesla. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of What the Truck?! delivers a packed lineup of industry insights and big-name guests. After a quick sponsor spotlight on Verizon Business, Harris dives into the headlines—covering FMCSA's English proficiency testing concerns, the latest State of Freight report, President Trump's approval of an $85B Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, and shipping disruptions on the Mississippi River.The first guest, Scott Cornell, VP of Transportation at Travelers and a veteran cargo theft expert, breaks down the surge in cargo theft, particularly a 96% spike in metal thefts driven by copper demand. He explains thieves' methods, from straight theft at truck stops to sophisticated double-brokering scams, and shares prevention and recovery strategies for brokers and carriers.Later, David Galbraith, VP of Global Brand and Marketing at Mack Trucks, joins to discuss brand legacy, driver engagement, and marketing innovation. With decades of experience across automotive and tech, Galbraith explains how Mack is blending its heritage of toughness with forward-looking sophistication and comfort—highlighted by initiatives like the Mack Hotel campaign and the “Driven by Heroes” platform celebrating truck drivers as essential workers. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of What the Truck?! delivers a packed lineup of industry insights and big-name guests. After a quick sponsor spotlight on Verizon Business, Harris dives into the headlines—covering FMCSA's English proficiency testing concerns, the latest State of Freight report, President Trump's approval of an $85B Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, and shipping disruptions on the Mississippi River.The first guest, Scott Cornell, VP of Transportation at Travelers and a veteran cargo theft expert, breaks down the surge in cargo theft, particularly a 96% spike in metal thefts driven by copper demand. He explains thieves' methods, from straight theft at truck stops to sophisticated double-brokering scams, and shares prevention and recovery strategies for brokers and carriers.Later, David Galbraith, VP of Global Brand and Marketing at Mack Trucks, joins to discuss brand legacy, driver engagement, and marketing innovation. With decades of experience across automotive and tech, Galbraith explains how Mack is blending its heritage of toughness with forward-looking sophistication and comfort—highlighted by initiatives like the Mack Hotel campaign and the “Driven by Heroes” platform celebrating truck drivers as essential workers. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How might truckers get back a measure of flexibility in the hours of service rules, such as that enjoyed by so many owner-operators of past generations? That is, the ability to split the 10-hour required rest period into two periods of any length they want. That's the option favored by a whopping 88% of readers who responded to Overdrive polling around the subject this time last year, with results published earlier in the year showing most readers wanted the ability just to split as they saw fit, fundamentally. Since the 14-hour duty window came into play more than two decades ago, well before the time of electronic logging device mandate's implementation in 2017, greater duty-window and/or rest period flexibility has been owner-operators' cardinal ask of regulators when it comes to the hours of service. After trucker appreciation week last week, we might see a path forward to it. In this Overdrive Radio edition, Chief Editor Todd Dills and Matt Cole break down the details of the DOT and FMCSA's announcement to start truck appreciation week last week of two proposed pilot programs to fully test two different options for split flexibility. It's not often we start the annual appreciation week with something other than a free soda at a truck stop or other deal from a vendor or supplier to write about. Yet that was the case for Cole last week Monday, when DOT announced formal proposals to conduct those safety-efficacy studies. One's the split-as-you-see fit option of up to 5/5-hour sleeper splits, the other a daily up-to-three-hour pause button, spot to speak, for the 14-hour clock. The news wasn't entirely unexpected, nontheless. The formal proposals had been teased back in June as part of what the DOT called a “Pro Trucker” package of efforts. The formal proposals open up a comment period on how regulators might set up and conduct the programs, each of which will be open to more than 250 drivers to participate: https://www.overdriveonline.com/hours-of-service/article/15755537/what-fmcsas-hoursofservice-flexibility-pilot-programs-could-look-like We're certainly months out from interested participants being able to apply to take part, and given each test could take years to bring to fruition, it could be quite some time before any subsequent regulatory action is taken. That is, unless another federal body pushes the ball more quickly forward, as Cole puts it in the podcast, and "Congress were to get involved." Absent Congressional directive to take regulatory action, further hours flexibilities for all drivers aren't likely in the cards before the next decade rolls around after these studies conclude -- depending on results, of course. That timeline takes us into whatever administration follows the current one. "Personally I don't see this as necessarily a partisan issue," said Cole. "If a Democratic Administration were to come in" come 2029, he felt FMCSA wouldn't be likely to wholesale abandon work put into potential new flexibilities. After all, some of groundwork for the 2020 split-sleeper enhancements was put in under the Obama administration. If these two studies show positive or even neutral safety impacts for participating truckers, it might really get things moving toward change for the next administration's FMCSA. Where to read and comment on the proposals, through mid-November: **Split-sleeper program: https://www.regulations.gov/document/FMCSA-2025-0193-0001 **Split-duty program: https://www.regulations.gov/document/FMCSA-2025-0194-0001 More on the 2020 split-sleeper change, which itself offered a boost in duty-pause and split flexibility: https://www.overdriveonline.com/partners-in-business/safety-compliance/video/15737159/significant-hos-change-fmcsas-2020-splitsleeper-provisions

⁠Amazon has aggressively expanded its third-party logistics footprint⁠. They opened their Multi-Channel Fulfillment service to merchants on rival platforms like Shein, Shopify, and Walmart, leveraging their scale to become the default logistics backbone for e-commerce. We analyze the major corporate reality shift in Less-Than-Truckload as ⁠FedEx Freight remains firmly on track to become an independent public company by June 2026⁠, trading on the NYSE as FDXF. Despite a constrained LTL market due to a weak industrial economy, FedEx Freight announced a 5.9% general rate increase taking effect January 5th, driven by spin-off cost pressures and rising wages. The episode shares a stark economic warning of ⁠"profitless prosperity," which projects steady, slow expansion for US GDP and freight activity through 2029⁠, yet requires operators to fight hard for margins. Persistent inflation is expected, fueled by factors like labor scarcity, fiscal deficits, and rising energy demand, making these rate increases likely to stick. Adding to the inflation headache, ⁠the weighted average U.S. tariff rate has climbed to 16.4%, the highest level seen since the 1930s⁠, which is expected to generate 1.3% to 1.4% inflation. We also cover capacity dynamics, noting that while the Outbound Tender Rejection Index remains low (stuck just over 5%) signaling persistent excess capacity, capacity exits are expected to continue as smaller carriers struggle to afford replacing aging truck fleets. Finally, we address critical regulatory changes related to risk and driver welfare, starting with the ⁠Department of Transportation launching a major crackdown on cargo theft⁠ after a spike of more than 90% between 2021 and 2024. ⁠New legislation is also moving fast to ban predatory lease-purchase programs⁠, which were concluded by an FMCSA task force to be "irredeemable tools of fraud and driver oppression" that shift the financial burden onto drivers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amazon has aggressively expanded its third-party logistics footprint. They opened their Multi-Channel Fulfillment service to merchants on rival platforms like Shein, Shopify, and Walmart, leveraging their scale to become the default logistics backbone for e-commerce. We analyze the major corporate reality shift in Less-Than-Truckload as FedEx Freight remains firmly on track to become an independent public company by June 2026, trading on the NYSE as FDXF. Despite a constrained LTL market due to a weak industrial economy, FedEx Freight announced a 5.9% general rate increase taking effect January 5th, driven by spin-off cost pressures and rising wages. The episode shares a stark economic warning of "profitless prosperity," which projects steady, slow expansion for US GDP and freight activity through 2029, yet requires operators to fight hard for margins. Persistent inflation is expected, fueled by factors like labor scarcity, fiscal deficits, and rising energy demand, making these rate increases likely to stick. Adding to the inflation headache, the weighted average U.S. tariff rate has climbed to 16.4%, the highest level seen since the 1930s, which is expected to generate 1.3% to 1.4% inflation. We also cover capacity dynamics, noting that while the Outbound Tender Rejection Index remains low (stuck just over 5%) signaling persistent excess capacity, capacity exits are expected to continue as smaller carriers struggle to afford replacing aging truck fleets. Finally, we address critical regulatory changes related to risk and driver welfare, starting with the Department of Transportation launching a major crackdown on cargo theft after a spike of more than 90% between 2021 and 2024. New legislation is also moving fast to ban predatory lease-purchase programs, which were concluded by an FMCSA task force to be "irredeemable tools of fraud and driver oppression" that shift the financial burden onto drivers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Major carriers like DHL Express and FedEx Express are making significant, strategically expanded, and sustainability-focused moves. ⁠DHL recently inaugurated a new $94 million international hub at Barcelona International Airport⁠, which boasts a seven-fold capacity increase, processing over 20,000 pieces per hour, and features a full solar array and 37 electric chargers for its vans. Similarly, ⁠FedEx opened a new 19,000-square-foot dedicated freight facility at East Midlands Airport in the UK⁠, operating separately from parcel sorting to boost cross-border air shipments and improve asset utilization. Next, we shift stateside to US ports, specifically the ⁠LA-Long Beach complex, which is showing surprisingly strong efficiency numbers for August 2025⁠. Truck dwell time averaged just 2.73 days, while rail dwell time significantly improved to 4.98 days, demonstrating effective coordination between terminals, truckers, and railroads even with high cargo volumes. ⁠Diesel is currently presenting a "tale of two prices" with retail stability contrasting with surging futures⁠. The weekly average retail price remained stable around $3.739 a gallon, but ultra low sulfur diesel futures surged over 10 cents in two days, reaching its highest settlement since late July due to geopolitical factors and attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. Supreme Court's upcoming review of two important broker liability cases, ⁠TQL v. Cox and Montgomery v. Caribe II⁠, on September 29th. These cases will determine the interpretation of the FAAAA safety exception regarding whether it covers brokers or just carriers, a critical point that has led to conflicting circuit court decisions. Additionally, we note the recent, thankfully quick, ⁠resolution of a brief outage of public FMCSA data⁠, which highlighted the industry's reliance on this information for critical safety checks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CSX CEO Joe Hinrichs challenges the long-standing obsession with operating ratios and pushes for volume growth, especially in high-potential areas like intermodal. He believes railroads can achieve both high profit margins and volume growth, emphasizing interline partnerships as a critical strategy to access new markets and improve service. Global trade winds are literally shifting freight patterns, with China drastically reducing its U.S. soybean imports due to trade tensions and retaliatory tariffs. This significant decrease in exports is creating a substantial drop in freight demand, particularly affecting Midwest states and potentially leading to job losses across trucking, rail, and port operations. High-stakes trade negotiations between the U.S. and South Korea, involving a proposed $350 billion South Korean investment fund aimed at underwriting U.S. shipbuilding, manufacturing, and other critical development. Despite reported stalls in discussions over foreign exchange markets and recent tensions, strategic commitments like Hanwha Group's $5 billion investment in a Philadelphia shipyard highlight re-industrialization efforts. At home, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are showing positive trends, reporting improved truck and rail dwell times in August 2025. This reflects strong coordination between terminals, trucking partners, and railroads, ensuring supply chains remain reliable during peak shipping season despite high cargo volumes. Uber Freight has launched its Dedicated EV Fleet Accelerator Program in partnership with Tesla. This program aims to overcome major adoption barriers for electric trucks by offering subsidized access to Tesla Semi-trucks, guaranteed freight demand, and direct operational support. We also address recent operational realities, including the temporary outage of critical FMCSA public data, which underscored the absolute importance of timely and accessible information for trucking safety and compliance. Finally, the ongoing liquidation of Yellow Corp. continues to reshape the LTL landscape, with over 200 service centers sold for nearly $2.4 billion, significantly realigning physical assets and market capacity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Large chunks of publicly available data on carriers have vanished from the FMCSA's website, impacting transparency for safety scrutiny efforts. Neither the FMCSA nor the Department of Transportation has yet offered an explanation for this significant data disappearance. Yellow Corp. is selling a Baltimore service center for $4.7 million, with only 11 terminals now remaining from its original 325-plus locations. Yellow has successfully sold over 200 service centers for nearly $2.4 billion since beginning its liquidation process. The surprising boost in container rates, influenced by positive trade negotiations between China and the US, include a potential TikTok deal. Rates from China to the US West Coast surged 7% week-over-week and 34% since late August, with East Coast prices also rising due to general rate increases and demand before China's Golden Week.  Finally, don't miss Malcolm Harris and Adam Wingfield on FreightWaves TV today at noon, discussing Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Remember to grab your last-chance tickets for the Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on October 21st and 22nd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Major carriers like DHL Express and FedEx Express are making significant, strategically expanded, and sustainability-focused moves. DHL recently inaugurated a new $94 million international hub at Barcelona International Airport, which boasts a seven-fold capacity increase, processing over 20,000 pieces per hour, and features a full solar array and 37 electric chargers for its vans. Similarly, FedEx opened a new 19,000-square-foot dedicated freight facility at East Midlands Airport in the UK, operating separately from parcel sorting to boost cross-border air shipments and improve asset utilization. Next, we shift stateside to US ports, specifically the LA-Long Beach complex, which is showing surprisingly strong efficiency numbers for August 2025. Truck dwell time averaged just 2.73 days, while rail dwell time significantly improved to 4.98 days, demonstrating effective coordination between terminals, truckers, and railroads even with high cargo volumes. Diesel is currently presenting a "tale of two prices" with retail stability contrasting with surging futures. The weekly average retail price remained stable around $3.739 a gallon, but ultra low sulfur diesel futures surged over 10 cents in two days, reaching its highest settlement since late July due to geopolitical factors and attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. Supreme Court's upcoming review of two important broker liability cases, TQL v. Cox and Montgomery v. Caribe II, on September 29th. These cases will determine the interpretation of the FAAAA safety exception regarding whether it covers brokers or just carriers, a critical point that has led to conflicting circuit court decisions. Additionally, we note the recent, thankfully quick, resolution of a brief outage of public FMCSA data, which highlighted the industry's reliance on this information for critical safety checks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Large chunks of publicly available data on carriers have vanished from the FMCSA's website, impacting transparency for safety scrutiny efforts. Neither the FMCSA nor the Department of Transportation has yet offered an explanation for this significant data disappearance. Yellow Corp. is selling a Baltimore service center for $4.7 million, with only 11 terminals now remaining from its original 325-plus locations. Yellow has successfully sold over 200 service centers for nearly $2.4 billion since beginning its liquidation process. The surprising boost in container rates, influenced by positive trade negotiations between China and the US, include a potential TikTok deal. Rates from China to the US West Coast surged 7% week-over-week and 34% since late August, with East Coast prices also rising due to general rate increases and demand before China's Golden Week.  Finally, don't miss Malcolm Harris and Adam Wingfield on FreightWaves TV today at noon, discussing Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Remember to grab your last-chance tickets for the Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on October 21st and 22nd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voice Of GO(r)D is very happy to bring you a conversation with Tamie Sue Stuttle of the advocacy organization Real Women in Trucking, where we discuss many of the usual problems facing truckers, and one in particular that is of import to Lady Truckers.Due to the intransigence of certain of the biggest trucking companies in the country, and their reliance on a wicked and evil training model, a study examining Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment in the industry was recently cancelled.As reported on by John Gallagher at FreightWaves not two weeks ago -The Trump administration has canceled a study aimed at addressing sexual harassment and rape in the trucking industry, according to one of the study's developers.“We all put a lot of time and attention into this, and just got an email yesterday telling us not to do any more work, that we've been cancelled,” Anne Balay, a member of the working group overseeing the project, told FreightWaves.“Everyone knows rape and sexual harassment are incredibly common in this industry, and this was an attempt to do an actual study that would have led to suggestions on how to address it and make the industry safer. But it was canceled not to save money – the money had already been spent – but to prevent the results from getting out to the public, ensuring now nothing gets done to change the industry and make it safer for women.”A screenshot of a notice from the administration states that the decision to terminate the study “is because the government's priorities have shifted and this project no longer meets our needs.”As Tamie and I discuss the cancellation, it appears that it is not the governments needs they are concerned with, but those of the members of the American Trucking Association, whose ‘Team Training' programs would be exposed to the scrutiny they need by this study, and possibly bring this stupid training method, and all of the sexual abuse it leads to for women, into the public eye. And, perhaps, result in it being made illegal - which is the correct action, to our minds.Tamie and I also discuss various other issues relevant to woman behind the wheel, and every other trucker out on the road, including a recent study from the ATA's research arm which suggests that more felons be recruited into trucking. What about those convicted of sexual crimes who would now be a problem for women truckers?You can find Tamie on Twitter - https://x.com/tamiesue2Tamie's own podcast - https://truckinwithtamie.com/The canceled SASH study at FMCSA - https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/research-and-analysis/cmv-driver-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment-sashhttps://www.realwomenintrucking.org/Driver Documentary FilmPetition to re-instate the SASH Study -https://www.change.org/p/reinstate-the-fmcsa-study-on-sexual-assault-and-harassment-in-truckingThe disgusting White Paper from ATRI encouraging the recruitment of dangerous ex-cons and Foster Children into trucking -https://truckingresearch.org/2025/07/new-atri-research-highlights-evolving-truck-driver-demographics/Questions, comments, suggestions, corrections and Hate Mail are always welcomed and strongly encouraged - gordilocks@protonmail.com

Are broker transparency rules the solution to today's freight challenges, or should we be focusing more on enforcement and safety? We're excited to bring The Armchair Attorney back to the show, Matt Leffler, to break down the FMCSA's latest delay on broker transparency updates, why the current 371.3 requirements remain unchanged, and what this means for brokers, carriers, and shippers! We delve into how market dynamics, tighter margins, and reduced consumer spending are shaping rates, and why stricter enforcement of maintenance and safety regulations could have a greater impact on the industry than transparency alone. Hear another straightforward take on what's really driving the transportation market!   About Matthew Leffler Matthew is a 3rd generation supply chain executive with over fifteen years of experience in safety, law, & maintenance. Matthew currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Contract Leasing Corp. He is also an attorney that provides legal commentary on various supply chain issues & operates a popular podcast. In addition, Matthew has served as a senior leader with some of the nation's most admired maintenance, repair, & fleet management firms. Matthew entered the industry as an attorney defending trucking companies in civil litigation in 2010, but cut his teeth helping build & later selling his family's maintenance firm, Outsource Fleet Services, Inc. Matthew earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, and his B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He is licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois; & 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. Matthew is the proud father of Michael, Rowan, Elise, & Elijah & has been happily married to his wife, Holly, since 2008.  

If you want to know what the new trucking regulations mean for your business, you shouldn't miss today's episode covering the latest headlines in the industry! I also cover the ATA's push for stricter federal safety enforcement, the ongoing debate over dash cams, FMCSA's enforcement gaps that affect driver safety checks, and the latest battle between California and the federal government over clean truck regulations!   References / Resources https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ata-renews-safety-call https://www.overdriveonline.com/regulations/article/15754336/why-states-let-nonelp-drivers-placed-oos-go-free https://www.freightwaves.com/news/california-vs-us-showdown-two-cases-might-head-to-same-stage-and-federal-register-notice-posted  

Mexico's industrial boom, highlighted by the new $540 million Wellness Development Hub in Huamantla, is the first of 15 centers projected to attract $277 billion in investment and 300,000 jobs by 2030. Cross-border opportunities face challenges, exemplified by the U.S. labor dispute against Mexican meatpacker Alimentos Grole, resulting in a suspension of goods liquidation due to alleged worker rights suppression. Additionally, a major U.S. appeals court ruling found most of Trump's broad import tariffs unlawful, creating a critical window of uncertainty regarding future import costs until October 14th. Prepare for peak season parcel surcharges, with major carriers like UPS, DHL, FedEx, and USPS implementing additional fees from September/October through January, varying based on package specifics and shipping volume. In innovation, autonomous trucking advancements include Torc Robotics' partnership with Edge Case Research to develop a comprehensive safety case for Level 4 autonomous trucks, aiming for fully driverless commercial long-haul trucks by 2027. Trimble launched its new Freight Marketplace, a platform designed for long-term contractual agreements rather than spot loads, with Procter & Gamble as its first major shipper. A critical industry safety concern addresses the Trump administration's cancellation of a three-year FMCSA study on sexual harassment and rape in the trucking industry, a significant setback for policies protecting vulnerable groups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mexico's industrial boom, highlighted by the new $540 million Wellness Development Hub in Huamantla, is the first of 15 centers projected to attract $277 billion in investment and 300,000 jobs by 2030. Cross-border opportunities face challenges, exemplified by the U.S. labor dispute against Mexican meatpacker Alimentos Grole, resulting in a suspension of goods liquidation due to alleged worker rights suppression. Additionally, a major U.S. appeals court ruling found most of Trump's broad import tariffs unlawful, creating a critical window of uncertainty regarding future import costs until October 14th. Prepare for peak season parcel surcharges, with major carriers like UPS, DHL, FedEx, and USPS implementing additional fees from September/October through January, varying based on package specifics and shipping volume. In innovation, autonomous trucking advancements include Torc Robotics' partnership with Edge Case Research to develop a comprehensive safety case for Level 4 autonomous trucks, aiming for fully driverless commercial long-haul trucks by 2027. Trimble launched its new Freight Marketplace, a platform designed for long-term contractual agreements rather than spot loads, with Procter & Gamble as its first major shipper. A critical industry safety concern addresses the Trump administration's cancellation of a three-year FMCSA study on sexual harassment and rape in the trucking industry, a significant setback for policies protecting vulnerable groups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone's pointing fingers at foreign drivers, visas, and this so-called “driver shortage” after the Florida crash. But are we actually addressing the real problem, and is the narrative we're hearing online actually true? Or just noise? Today, we'll break down the numbers on non-domiciled CDL holders, tax and safety compliance, and the failures of FMCSA, state DMVs, DOT, and CDL schools that no one wants to talk about.  Tune in to this episode about costs, risks, and accountability—no fluff, just facts!  

Transport Topics is the news leader in trucking and freight transportation. Today's briefing covers a State Department declaration regarding work visas, FMCSA and medical certifications, and EPA issuing a biodiesel-blending waiver. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bizable https://GoBizable.comUntie your business exposure from your personal exposure with BiZABLE.  Schedule your FREE consultation at GoBizAble.com today. Angel Studios https://Angel.com/ToddJoin the Angel Guild today and stream Testament, a powerful new series featuring the retelling of the book of Acts. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddRegister today to Join the Renue Healthcare Webinar Thursday September 11th at 11:00 PST.   Visit https://joinstemcelltalks.com or call 602-428-4000.  Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Alan's Soaps https://www.AlansArtisanSoaps.comUse coupon code TODD to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/toddThe new GOLDEN AGE is here!  Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubeGlobalism for profit and for control. Let's reverse engineer this illegal immigrant truck driver story. How did we get to this point?Episode Links:NEW: The illegal immigrant who is accused of taking 3 American lives while making an illegal U-turn was only able to accurately identify 1 of 4 highway traffic signs during an FMCSA interview.As President Trump has made clear, it's time to end mail-in votingCleta Mitchell wants people to vote early and in person.Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold: “Mail ballots are secure. They cannot be hacked.” This is the same woman whose office leaked passwords for voting systems then tried covering it up. Can't make this upRep. Jasmine Crocket (D-TX) posts a late night Monday meltdown calling Texas racist for redistricting. She then applauds California for redistricting.TEXAS GOP BETRAYAL: Instead of punishing the rogue Dems... Texas GOP leadership REWARDED them by letting the Democrats edit the redistricting map.“What're you gonna do about it?” (The Democrat platform)

A fatal crash in Florida has triggered federal scrutiny of White Hawk Carriers and multiple states after Harjinder Singh, licensed in Washington and California, was charged with vehicular homicide. DOT Secretary Sean Duffy says FMCSA rules were ignored, leading to preventable deaths. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/freight-carrier-three-states-under-microscope-of-triple-fatal-u-turn/ #Washington #Florida #Transportation #SeanDuffy #FMCSA #HighwaySafety #HarjinderSingh #WhiteHawkCarriers #CDL #TrafficFatalities

Kevin covers the following topics: Fusable's MC Advantage released their analysis of FMCSA data regarding crashes involving English Language Proficiency violators versus other violations; AI powered speed cameras can be used to find other violations; BP's latest oil and natural gas discovery; BP reports 2nd qtr. financial results; Paccar reported their 2nd qtr. results; Kevin has the details, sifts through the data, offers his insights, puts the information into historical perspective, offers his insights and a few opinions along the way. Oil and gas prices react to an unexpected rise crude oil supply, sanctions on Russia may increase or decrease pending Trump-Putin meeting on Friday, the International Energy Agency's forecast for oil supply and OPEC+ forecast global oil demand.

Kevin covers the following topics: Fusable's MC Advantage released their analysis of FMCSA data regarding crashes involving English Language Proficiency violators versus other violations; AI powered speed cameras can be used to find other violations; BP's latest oil and natural gas discovery; BP reports 2nd qtr. financial results; Paccar reported their 2nd qtr. results; Kevin has the details, sifts through the data, offers his insights, puts the information into historical perspective, offers his insights and a few opinions along the way. Oil and gas prices react to an unexpected rise crude oil supply, sanctions on Russia may increase or decrease pending Trump-Putin meeting on Friday, the International Energy Agency's forecast for oil supply and OPEC+ forecast global oil demand.

In this week's episode of FTR's Trucking Market Update podcast, we review data on trade and wholesale inventories, discuss the latest developments on tariffs, and address the latest data from FMCSA's drug and alcohol clearinghouse. Plus, we recap the week in diesel prices and the spot market for truck freight as usual.The Trucking Market Update is hosted by FTR's Vice President of Trucking, Avery Vise. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the presentation.Download the PDF: https://ftrintel.com/trucking-podcast Support the show

Most trucking companies are running unsafe—and they don't even know it. In this episode, Jared Flinn sits down with safety expert Sam Watts to uncover the hidden risks, legal traps, and overlooked safety violations that could destroy your trucking business.

Are spot rates really holding, or is capacity starting to tighten under the surface? Today, let's talk about the DAT's load board data, seasonal freight patterns, how tariffs and interest rates are shaping the future of the industry, the recent FMCSA enforcement on English language proficiency and accountability gaps around fraud, and why human conversations still matter in carrier vetting, despite all the technology!  

It's the Ranch It Up Radio Show Herd It Here Weekly Report!  A 3-minute look at cattle markets, reports, news info, or anything that has to do with those of us who live at the end of dirt roads.  Join Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt, the Boss Lady Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' by subscribing on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), along with numerous state cattle associations, is urging lawmakers to support the Hauling Exemptions for Livestock Protection (HELP) Act, introduced by Representative Jeff Hurd (R-CO). This critical legislation would provide long-overdue relief for livestock haulers, protecting them from the burdensome Hours of Service (HOS) and Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandates. HELP Act Would Reinstate Vital Exemptions for Livestock Transportation The HELP Act seeks to permanently codify HOS and ELD exemptions that were temporarily granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. These exemptions allowed livestock truck drivers to safely transport live animals without being restricted by rigid federal mandates. For nearly two years, these waivers gave haulers the flexibility to adapt to weather, traffic, and the unique demands of transporting live animals—ensuring animal welfare and supply chain efficiency. However, once the exemptions expired, livestock haulers once again faced regulations that threaten both. By reinstating these exemptions, the HELP Act would ensure drivers can continue safely and humanely transporting livestock across the country without unnecessary delays or stress to animals. Speed Limiter Rule Dropped, But More Relief Is Needed In a recent win for the livestock industry, FMCSA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the withdrawal of a proposed rule to require speed limiters on commercial trucks. While this was welcomed by livestock haulers, HOS and ELD mandates remain a pressing concern. Unlike other freight, cattle and other livestock cannot be easily stopped, unloaded, or left idle during transport. Delays can cause undue stress or injury to animals, making flexible transportation rules essential. NCBA Thanks Rep. Jeff Hurd and Urges Congressional Action The NCBA has voiced strong support for the HELP Act and applauds Rep. Jeff Hurd for introducing this livestock-friendly legislation. By passing the HELP Act, Congress can ensure that haulers have the tools and flexibility needed to protect animal welfare, support ranchers, and strengthen the food supply chain.   To Review The Bill, Click HERE. REFERENCE:  https://cdllife.com/2025/bill-seeking-permanent-hos-exemption-for-livestock-haulers/ https://www.drovers.com/news/industry/help-act-seeks-relief-livestock-haulers#:~:text=The%20Hauling%20Exemptions%20for%20Livestock,two%20years%20during%20the%20pandemic.%E2%80%9D https://www.ncba.org/news-media/news/details/43643/ncba-endorses-help-act-to-support-livestock-haulers Upcoming Feeder Cattle, Bull & Cow Sales On RanchChannel.Com Lots of feeder cattle, steers & heifers, bulls, and cow sales coming up on the RanchChannel.Com sale calendar.  Check out the full line up HERE. SPONSORS American Gelbvieh Association https://gelbvieh.org/ @AmericanGelbvieh   Axiota Animal Health https://axiota.com/ @MultiminUSA   Jorgensen Land & Cattle https://jorgensenfarms.com/ @JorLandCat   Ranch Channel https://ranchchannel.com/ @RanchChannel   Superior Livestock Auctions https://superiorlivestock.com/ @SuperiorLivestockAuctions   Wulf Cattle https://www.wulfcattle.com/ @WulfCattle Rural America is center-stage on this outfit. ND how is that? Because of Tigger & BEC... Live This Western Lifestyle. Tigger & BEC represent the Working Ranch world by providing the cowboys, cowgirls, beef cattle producers & successful farmers the knowledge and education needed to bring high-quality beef & meat to your table for dinner. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/

On episode 863 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Thomas Wasson and Rob Carpenter dive deep into infrastructure, inspections, inspiration, and sour intensity. Former FMCSA Administrator Jim Mullins kicks things off with an insider's view of Derek Barr's confirmation and what awaits him at an FMCSA now grappling with layoffs, tech transitions, and a weakened workforce. Then, VA Delegate Chad Green joins the show to discuss the spike in teen driver crashes during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer and the new laws Virginia is enacting to save lives. From there, we pivot to creativity and craftsmanship with Cody McCandless, who walks us through his custom build of the Lacoh Transport Dream Truck, a rolling tribute to freight. Then Ingrid Brown lays down some hard-won wisdom on driver inspections and the top violations of June for Wyoming. We cover how tariffs are souring the costs of Halloween candy. All that plus the FreightTech 100 launch, crash video reaction clips, and more. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Check out the WTT merch store⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On episode 863 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Thomas Wasson and Rob Carpenter dive deep into infrastructure, inspections, inspiration, and sour intensity. Former FMCSA Administrator Jim Mullins kicks things off with an insider's view of Derek Barr's confirmation and what awaits him at an FMCSA now grappling with layoffs, tech transitions, and a weakened workforce. Then, VA Delegate Chad Green joins the show to discuss the spike in teen driver crashes during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer and the new laws Virginia is enacting to save lives. From there, we pivot to creativity and craftsmanship with Cody McCandless, who walks us through his custom build of the Lacoh Transport Dream Truck, a rolling tribute to freight. Then Ingrid Brown lays down some hard-won wisdom on driver inspections and the top violations of June for Wyoming. We cover how tariffs are souring the costs of Halloween candy. All that plus the FreightTech 100 launch, crash video reaction clips, and more. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An Illinois-based trucking company, Chicago Suburban Express, is scheduled to close its doors on Friday, July 18th. Founded in 1963, the company, also known as CSX, previously offered same-day pickup and truckload shipments across Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and parts of Missouri, employing 41 drivers and operating 33 power units.  Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced a new 12-member DOT Advisory Board with the goal of increasing American private investment in national infrastructure projects. Duffy highlighted that while there's a significant opportunity for private capital in infrastructure, much of the current returns are going to foreign investors, and he aims to shift these returns to American investors. Derek Barrs, the nominee for the top position at the FMCSA, testified before Congress, emphasizing how his law enforcement experience will guide his leadership in the agency. He specifically noted his understanding of challenges faced by roadside inspectors when communicating with drivers lacking English proficiency, and pledged to address issues like fraudulent CDLs and other fraud schemes if confirmed.  The episode also promotes upcoming FreightWaves TV programming, including new episodes of Bring It Home with JP Hampstead and The Long Haul with Adam Wingfield. Listeners are encouraged to get tickets for the Supply Chain AI Symposium on July 30th in Washington D.C., and to register for the free Enterprise Fleet Summit virtual event next week. Additionally, nominations for the FreightTech 100 awards are now open, with winners to be announced later in the summer and the FreightTech 25 announced at the F3 festival in October. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On episode 860 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Kaylee Nix and Thomas Wasson get your Friday going. We ask “where in the world is Thomas Wasson?” FreightValidate CEO Dale Prax is our highlight guest. He brings some intense conversation about the problems with the FMCSA and the trucking industry. We ask what can actually be done to fix the problems of fraud? What is truly freight fraud vs not? And why did nothing change when JD Vance, an author of a letter requesting a freight fraud task force, took office as VP? Catch new shows live at noon EDT Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on FreightWaves LinkedIn, Facebook, X or YouTube, or on demand by looking up WHAT THE TRUCK?!? on your favorite podcast player and at 6 p.m. Eastern on SiriusXM's Road Dog Trucking Channel 146. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A significant legal setback for rail shippers dropped as a federal court has tossed out the Surface Transportation Board's (STB) 2024 reciprocal switching rule, ruling that the STB exceeded its authority and that the rule was inconsistent with the Staggers Act of 1980, a decision challenged by major railroads including CSX, Canadian National, and Union Pacific.  Watt EV has broken ground on its sixth electric charging depot at the Port of Oakland, establishing a vital zero-emission freight corridor connecting the Bay Area to Sacramento, Nevada, and Southern California. This new facility will feature 15 240-kilowatt CCS dispensers and six MCS dispensers, significantly expanding the region's heavy-duty electric truck charging  The Small Business and Transportation Coalition (SBTC) has petitioned the U.S. Department of Transportation to repeal regulations allowing new entrant non-North America domiciled carriers to apply for operating authority in the US, alleging unfair competition against American trucking companies. However, federal data from the FMCSA contradicts this claim, showing very few non-North America-based operating authorities currently exist, with all such companies required to complete a safety audit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with Dale Prax—Marine Corps veteran, 30-year freight insider, and founder of FreightValidate—to expose the freight fraud epidemic that's hitting small carriers the hardest. From ghost carriers and fake dispatchers to double brokering rings that steal freight and wreck reputations, Dale breaks down exactly how these scams work—and why the FMCSA isn't doing enough to stop them. You'll also hear how Platinum Verified and FreightClub are building a wall of trust around the good actors in this industry. If you've ever said “That would never happen to me”—you need to hear this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, you'll hear more market data, analysis, and valuable insights on what you should know about the transportation industry, especially on the current FMCSA regulation issues, broker transparency rulemaking, dispatch service regulation, and FMCSA enforcement!  

In this episode of the Tow Business Podcast, we explore the current challenges and opportunities within the towing industry. We discuss the resilience required to handle issues such as employee turnover and staffing shortages as we gear up for winter. The conversation turns to regulatory changes, particularly the FMCSA's transition to digital medical cards, examining its implications and the concerns it raises within our workforce. We share cautionary tales about rescue operations in adverse weather, emphasizing preparedness and safety culture. Our marketing segment considers creative promotional strategies to engage clients, while also reflecting on optimizing employee roles and compensation structures to ensure a harmonious workplace. As we celebrate the successes within our peer business group, we highlight the value of collaboration and insight-sharing to foster growth. Join us as we navigate the intricacies of the towing industry and strive for excellence amidst challenges.   Chapters 0:27  Introduction to Tow Business Podcast 0:50  Summer Heat and Staffing Challenges 6:37  Digital Medical Cards Update 10:12  Concerns Over CDL Changes 19:33  Creative Marketing Giveaways 24:55  The Bonus Dilemma 30:50  Addressing Employee Responsibilities 39:52  Ohio's PPI Regulation Developments 43:20  Repurposing Employees for Success 51:21  The Value of Marketing 55:01  Growth in Owners Groups 58:35  Closing Remarks and Support for the Show