Which company’s drivers are compromising road safety?
Plus: Freight classification changes postponed | Will Trump make trucking great again?
Safety isn’t just a priority — it’s the backbone of any successful trucking operation. Yet, an investigation revealed startling violation rates among Amazon’s middle-mile carriers, putting the safety of drivers and the public at risk and raising serious concerns about accountability. Find out more in the Inside Look.
Today's Lineup
🔷 Will the next administration make trucking great again?
🔷 What drivers want to see eliminated from the industry
🔷 Truck hauling automotive parts involved in crash, cargo spill
🔷 Trucking leaders face tight budgets in 2025
🔷 Changes to freight classification get pushed back
Investigation: Amazon's drivers pose a threat to safe roads
A new investigation reveals some shocking safety violations by contractors driving for Amazon.
Based on federal data, CBS News found violation rates in Amazon's middle-mile network were double those of carriers who didn't transport for Amazon. The violations included everything from speeding to texting.
On top of that, at least 57 people have died in crashes over the last two years involving carriers shipping for Amazon.
Why this matters: These numbers paint a worrying picture for road safety. Amazon's model of using several different contractors for middle-mile deliveries may hinder an organization-wide culture of safety.
Get more details at CBS News.
What we're reading: An opinion blog on whether Trump's presidency will "make trucking great again."
What we're listening to: A podcast discussing all things EVs and the uncertainty of truck emissions regulations.
What we're watching: This reel of truck drivers sharing the one thing in common they'd love to see eliminated from the industry.
What's making us cringe: A viral photo of a $300,000 Lamborghini falling off a truck. The trailer’s hydraulic elevator reportedly malfunctioned while the supercar was being unloaded.
Trucking leaders head into 2025 with tight budgets
The lengthy freight recession is causing fleets to keep the purse strings tight as they gear up for next year. One carrier CFO says he's "looking at every penny," while another CEO says "there is no extra cash" this year.
Why this matters: The industry is cautiously optimistic that improved rates will come in 2025. But until they materialize, leaders continue to find ways to save costs in a tough freight market. (Transport Topics)
Agency delays changes to freight, LTL classification
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association is pushing back changes to how freight is classified. Originally scheduled to take effect in May, the switch will now occur in July.
Why this matters: Misclassified freight can create higher costs, so the later date allows carriers, 3PLs and shippers more time to adjust to the new rules and avoid extra fees. (Logistics Management)
Truck drivers seek home time as they switch carriers
A recent survey found an uptick in truckers looking for a new driving job: 41% this year, compared to 33% last year. The No. 1 factor they're looking for as they switch carriers: better home time.
Why this matters: Understanding drivers' desires can be key to fleets recruiting, retaining and keeping the workforce happy. (Land Line)
- WISH LIST: What carriers want from a modern TMS
- LEGAL DUTY: Attorneys argue admissions rule in Werner case
- CARGO SPILL: Interstate littered with auto parts after crash
- DRIVER VS. TA: Lawsuit says faulty oil change damaged truck
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The Inside Lane is curated and written by Shefali Kapadia and edited by Bianca Prieto.
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