Trucking industry is tired of being gov 'guinea pig'

Insiders: OODIA's VP called out Congress for treating the trucking industry like "guinea pigs" during a recent hearing, and said the EPA's zero emission timeline isn't realistic. Plus, did you see the video of the massive pile-up involving a lithium-laden truck that shut down a major California highway for hours?

Today's Lineup

🔷 Senate proposal gets applause from trucking industry.
🔷 Is tonnage in a tailspin? See the latest report.
🔷 What's on the minds of owner-operators amid excessive mandates?
🔷 The "fraud apocalypse" continues to harm carriers and drivers.
🔷 Could this technology realistically make trucks cleaner and greener?
-Bianca Prieto, Editor

POLITICS

Truckers are tired of being EPA's "guinea pigs"

The trucking industry is facing immense pressure to rapidly transition to zero emissions, but the necessary infrastructure and technology simply aren't there yet, Lewie Pugh, OOIDA executive vice president, told Congress during a recent hearing.

“Truckers want clean air. We all want clean air and clean water,” Pugh said on Wednesday, July 24. “But let the free market figure this out. Free market always does better than government heavy-handedness.”

The government's push for a greener trucking industry is moving too fast. Pugh, and others, argue that the trucking industry is tired of being the government's "guinea pig" when it comes to carrying out the EPA's mandates. To achieve sustainability, policymakers must listen to drivers and understand the industry’s real-world challenges. 

Why this matters: The trucking industry is a vital part of the economy, and hasty regulations could have unintended consequences. Finding a balance between environmental protection and economic viability is crucial.  Get more details from Land Line.

• CLEAN MACHINES: This tech looks to make trucking greener.
• RYDER'S REACH: Expansion set for mobile maintenance service.
• SLIPPING STATS: How much did truck tonnage decrease in June?
• TIPPING POINT: New rules endanger truckers' independence.

POLITICS
New Senate Bill set to transform trucking industry issues
The government is stepping up with a new Senate bill targeting truck drivers' daily struggles. This bill includes bold initiatives to expand truck parking, prevent cargo theft, and address other persistent industry issues.

Why this matters: Lack of parking is a major pain point for America's truck drivers. If implemented swiftly and effectively, these changes could significantly improve life on the road for those who keep America moving. (Truckers News)

BUSINESS

Contract rates continue steady decline

Long-term contract rates for dry van truckloads have decreased by 3%- 5% since July 2023, while spot rates have increased by 5%-6% year-over-year. The continued decrease in contract rates suggests limited room for further price drops, hinting at potential cost inflation in the truckload market.

Why this matters: The fast, continued rate of decline implies that carriers are nearing the end of their ability to drop prices and remain in business. (FreightWaves)

BUSINESS

Preventative fraud measures leading to carrier frustrations

To combat the increasing instances of freight fraud and cargo theft, brokers are implementing strict carrier selection criteria, making it challenging for legitimate truckers to secure loads. The increased safeguards have forced many truckers to deactivate their authority or lease onto larger carriers.

Why this matters: As more legitimate carriers get shut out due to increased safety measures, smaller operations could run the risk of shuttering operations. (Overdrive)

• FMCSA Safety Fitness Determination Virtual Session #3 Final reminder to join the July 31 session to learn about the new process and its implications for your operations.
• OOIDA's Online Education: Classes for the small business owner and the professional truck driver.
• Tips to build electrification strategy*  Explore expert tips on developing an effective electrification strategy to future-proof your fleet and reduce environmental impact.
• Where are fleets spending the most?* Find out where fleets are allocating their budgets to maximize efficiency and stay ahead in the competitive transportation sector.
• These trends are shaping the future of physical operations* Stay informed about what's transforming physical operations and how they can impact your business strategies.

* These sponsored links are endorsed by The Inside Lane

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