Latest Industry News Briefs Courtesy of PMTA
Truckstop Survey Reveals Carrier Confidence and Growth Optimism for 2025
This article was originally published on PR Newswire.
BOISEID… Truckstop’s latest Carrier Insight Survey reveals an optimistic and forward-thinking outlook within the trucking industry. With 91% of carriers confident in achieving their professional goals and nearly half expecting significant personal and business improvements, the survey of nearly 500 carriers underscores their readiness to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in 2025.
“The survey results highlight carriers’ resilience, ambition, and determination to enhance their businesses and overall quality of life,” said Kendra Tucker, chief executive officer, Truckstop. “Whether focusing on fraud prevention, professional development, or securing more relevant loads, Truckstop provides innovative tools and resources to empower carriers and help them thrive in an ever-changing industry.”
Overarching Optimism Fuels Career Confidence
The majority of carriers (91%) feel optimistic about achieving their primary professional goals in 2025, with 54% describing themselves as “extremely optimistic.” Career stability is a cornerstone of their plans, as 97% intend to stay in trucking—63% in their current roles and 34% transitioning to new opportunities within the industry.
* Professional outlook: Ninety-four percent (94%) believe their professional life will improve in 2025, with 53% expecting it to be “significantly better.”
* Career changes: Only 3% of carriers plan to leave the trucking industry in 2025, reinforcing trucking’s role as a stable and rewarding career choice.
Gaining Ground on Fraud
Fraud prevention remains a top priority for carriers in 2025. Eighty-two percent (82%) believe industry measures will improve, and nearly one-third expect significant advancements.
* Future of fraud prevention: Carriers overwhelmingly see improvement ahead, with 28% anticipating major gains in fraud prevention efforts.
* Support needs: Many carriers look to companies like Truckstop to provide resources and tools to address fraud more effectively.
Prioritizing Wellness and Personal Development
Carriers are making significant commitments to health, wellness, and self-improvement. Over 70% plan to improve their eating habits and exercise routines in 2025, while an impressive 93% are likely to pursue additional training or certifications to advance their careers.
* Health and wellness goals:
o Seventy-six percent (76%) plan to improve eating habits.
o Seventy-one percent (71%) plan to increase exercise.
* Personal growth: Carriers view professional development as critical, with 93% likely to invest in training or certifications.
Although work-life balance remains a challenge, 22% hope to spend more time at home while 32% plan to spend less time at home, likely due to their professional demands and desire to grow their income.
Strategic Investments for Business Growth
In 2025, 77% of carriers plan to make rig upgrades, including performance improvements and driver comfort enhancements such as heated seats and updated sound systems. Financial planning is another critical area, with 45% focusing on revenue growth and 38% prioritizing savings for equipment upgrades.
* Rig upgrades: In addition to comfort and performance improvements, many carriers are also interested in adding technology for route optimization and adding safety features like cameras.
* Top financial goals:
o Forty-five percent (45%) are focused on increasing revenue.
o Thirty-eight percent (38%) aim to save for equipment upgrades.
o Seventeen percent (17%) either prioritize reducing costs or building an emergency fund.
Trucking Industry Expresses Strong Support for Zeldin to Lead EPA
Washington, DC… In advance of the confirmation hearing of former Representative Lee Zeldin to serve as the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, American Trucking Associations President & CEO Chris Spear sent a letter to the Senate Environment & Public Works Committee to express strong support for his nomination.
“While representing New York’s 1st Congressional district, Rep. Zeldin brought a commonsense mindset to the House of Representatives,” Spear wrote. “He listened to advocates on all sides of environmental issues and worked with his colleagues as part of the Climate Solutions Caucus and Conservative Climate Caucus on proactive, constructive and results-driven approaches to key issues. This dedication to collaboration is exactly what is needed from an EPA Administrator.”
By supporting EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Phase 1 & 2 regulations, participating in EPA’s voluntary SmartWay program, and other collaborative efforts, America’s trucking industry has made tremendous strides to reduce emissions. In fact, it would take 60 of today’s trucks to emit what just one truck did in 1988. Rather than building on this successful partnership, however, EPA has in recent years set the trucking industry up for failure by imposing unworkable mandates on unrealistic timelines.
“America’s truckers deserve an EPA leader who will work productively with industry to set federal emissions standards that are achievable and do not risk disrupting our supply chains,” Spear wrote. “Unfortunately, the current EPA failed to meet those thresholds and instead consistently conceded its federal responsibilities to the California Air Resources Board, creating a patchwork of state mandates and timelines for emissions reduction and forced electrification of heavy-duty trucking. We believe that under Rep. Zeldin’s leadership, the EPA can restore common sense to environmental policies, providing a national roadmap that is both ambitious and achievable.”
Rep. Zeldin’s hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15th. ATA is calling for the EPW members to report his nomination out of the committee favorably so that the full Senate can confirm him soon after President-elect Trump is sworn into office.
Trucking Industry Expresses Strong Support for Duffy to Lead DOT
Washington. DC… In advance of the confirmation hearing of former Representative Sean Duffy to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Transportation, American Trucking Associations President & CEO Chris Spear sent a letter to the Senate Commerce Committee to express strong support for his nomination.
“As a former Member of Congress representing Wisconsin’s 7th congressional district, Representative Duffy is a proven leader who recognizes that a resilient transportation network and modernized infrastructure are keys to a thriving economy, social and economic mobility, and job creation,” Spear wrote.
Spear noted that, throughout Rep. Duffy’s congressional service, he repeatedly worked hand in glove with the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association, providing him with in-depth insights on the central importance and unique needs of the trucking industry. He also has a track record of supporting infrastructure projects to improve the efficient movement of freight.
“Ultimately, a well-maintained and reliable transportation network is crucial to the delivery of the nation’s freight and vital to our country’s economic well-being,” Spear wrote. “As the 119th Congress begins its work crafting a comprehensive, robust surface transportation reauthorization package, Rep. Duffy’s extensive experience and understanding of our nation’s transportation needs will be invaluable and will facilitate a reliable partnership between DOT and Capitol Hill.”
Rep. Duffy’s hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15th. ATA is calling for the Commerce members to report his nomination out of the committee favorably so that the full Senate can confirm him soon after President-elect Trump is sworn into office.
Maryland Law Enforcement Reporting Suspicious Activity Around Propane Facilities
By Megan Magensky, PMTA
The Worcester County Sheriff's Office is asking people to stay vigilant around propane facilities.
The Worcester County Sheriff's Office in Maryland shared a Facebook post urging the community to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity around propane storage or distribution facilities.
The Sheriff's Office was alerted to suspicious activity at the Sharp Energy Facility Plant in Princess Anne, Maryland on January 3.
An employee at the plant watched the driver and passenger of a dark blue Tesla park in the middle of one of the entrances to the plant and exit the car with "high-tech" cameras with long lenses. The employee said the two people took pictures of storage tanks and rail cars. According to the Sheriff's Office, when the people were spotted, they jumped back into the car and drove away.
The Facebook post states there may have been a third person in the Tesla.
The Sheriff's Office is asking people to watch for:
* Unfamiliar individuals loitering near propane facilities.
* Unmarked vehicles parked for extended periods of time near facilities like this.
* Unauthorized personnel trying to access restricted areas.
* Odd behavior, such as photographing, taking notes or closely inspecting tanks or equipment.
The Sheriff's Office is asking folks to:
* Stay Alert: If you live or work near a propane facility, keep an eye out for anything unusual.
* Report Suspicious Activity: Call your local law enforcement agency. Provide a description of the enforcement agency. Provide a description of the person, vehicle or behavior.
* Avoid Confrontation: Do not approach or engage suspicious individuals.
Letter To The Editor
After reading your January issue, I realized that 50 years ago I picked up your first issue. Made me stop and think, damn have I really been out here for 50 years. I’ve read every issue since number 1 and they have always been interesting and informative. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Jim Harris
Editor’s Note: Jim! You totally made our day with your very kind email! We truly appreciate you being such a loyal and longtime (from the very beginning – 50 years ago!) reader of Movin’ Out! Thank-you!
EPA Grants CARB NOx Waiver, PMTA Challenge Will Continue in PA
By Rebecca Oyler, PMTA
On December 18, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted the California Air Resources Board (CARB) a waiver to enforce its stringent NOx emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks, aiming to reduce NOx emissions by 90%, overhaul engine testing procedures, and extend engine warranties.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has expressed strong opposition to this decision. ATA President and CEO Chris Spear stated that the waiver imposes unworkable state-by-state standards on the trucking industry, compromising the federal NOx standard adopted just two years ago. He argues that the waiver, which allows California to enforce its own, more stringent NOx emissions standards and allows states the option to adopt them, creates a fragmented regulatory environment, posing challenges for the trucking industry nationwide.
A consistent, nationwide standard is preferred to a patchwork of state-specific regulations, which leads to increased operational complexities and costs. California's mandates have already led to significant truck shortages and price increases, limiting truck sales and purchases in several states. CARB’s unworkable policies disregard the operational needs of the trucking industry and will adversely affect consumers through higher prices for everyday goods.
In Pennsylvania, the recent EPA waiver intensifies the debate over adopting CARB's NOx standards. The waiver means that the state’s Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) existing regulation adopting CARB’s emissions standards is now permitted by federal law and can now be enforced in Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA) and four of its members argued in court in June that the automatic incorporation of these standards in the state causes economic and operational challenges for the local trucking industry. In Peters Brothers, Inc., et.al. v. DEP et. al., PMTA contends that delegating regulatory authority to CARB deprives Pennsylvania businesses and residents of a voice in the rulemaking process, violating constitutional principles.
In late November, PMTA learned that the state’s Commonwealth Court found by a vote of 4-3 that PMTA’s lawsuit cannot proceed because of a bar on “pre-enforcement challenges” in state law. PMTA’s attorneys at the Pacific Legal Foundation will file an amended complaint early next year continuing to challenge the constitutionality of the adoption of the NOx standards and warranty requirements. In addition to challenging Pennsylvania’s unlawful rolling incorporation of California standards, PMTA will now raise new state and federal constitutional claims arguing that PMTA has a right to have its case heard – regardless of whether DEP is actively enforcing California standards at this time.
At the same time, PMTA is closely watching events at the national level as the incoming Trump administration may reevaluate EPA’s policies on emissions standards.
The trucking industry in Pennsylvania is already under significant strain, and these additional regulatory burdens could have far-reaching consequences for the state's economy. PMTA continues to urge consideration of all relevant factors as emissions standards are considered.
Credentialing Reform Bill Championed by ATA to be Signed into Law
Washington, DC… The American Trucking Associations applauded the House passage of the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.
“For far too long, the truck drivers who keep our country running have been subjected to an outdated, inefficient credentialing system that does not respect their time and money. That begins to change today. By taking the final step needed to eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, Congress will provide essential supply chain workers with overdue relief from redundant background checks and fees,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear. “The Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act is a bipartisan victory for common sense. We commend Members of Congress, especially Senator Roger Wicker and Congressman Garret Graves, who stood up for truckers, making it easier and less costly for hardworking Americans to obtain the credentials they need to do their jobs.”
ATA thanked Representatives Garret Graves (R-Louisiana), Adam Smith (D-Washington), Mark Green (R-Tennessee), Michael Guest (R-Mississippi), Salud Carbajal (D-California) and Dina Titus (D-Nevada) for authoring the bill and working tirelessly to get it across the finish line. ATA also thanked House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) for his instrumental role in scheduling a vote before the end of the congressional session. This was the final step in the legislative process since the bill, which was introduced in the Senate by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), and Angus King (I-Maine), passed the upper chamber unanimously last month.
ATA has been at the forefront of the push to pass this bipartisan legislation to eliminate redundant fees and background checks for essential supply chain workers. Beginning last year, ATA assembled a group of over 150 organizations representing trucking, rail, energy, organized labor, agriculture, third-party logistics providers and other key supply chain stakeholders in support of the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act.
The bill has been a mainstay in ATA’s Call on Washington program this year, which has facilitated 700 meetings between ATA’s member companies and lawmakers on Capitol Hill since the beginning of this Congress. ATA also leveraged its 50-state federation to put pressure on key Members of Congress. As part of this comprehensive, ongoing advocacy effort, ATA President and CEO Chris Spear headed to Capitol Hill to meet one-on-one with the bill’s original sponsors and committee leaders to shore up support.
The Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act cuts through red tape to allow workers to apply existing valid background checks to multiple TSA-managed credentialing programs, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) programs. By eliminating duplicative screenings and harmonizing these programs, the bill would codify formal recommendations by the Government Accountability Office dating back to 2007. These recommendations were reaffirmed in 2020 in a comprehensive security assessment conducted by the Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center. The bill does not make any modifications to the backend security threat assessment conducted on individual applicants, ensuring that they undergo the same level of review as they do under current law.
ATA Urges Truck Manufacturers to Partner with Industry on Emissions Goals
Washington, DC… American Trucking Associations President and CEO Chris Spear called upon the nation’s heavy-duty truck and engine manufacturers to abandon their agreement with California regulators to abide by the state’s increasingly untenable and unachievable zero-emission vehicle regulations.
“By strong-arming our industry into unachievable targets and timelines void of operational and economic reality, the California Air Resources Board’s mad dash to zero has set our industry up for failure, sowing the seeds of another supply chain crisis,” Spear wrote in a letter to the nation’s truck and engine makers. “California’s ideological approach has cratered the truck market; sales are down by over 50 percent compared to last year. Availability of California-certified diesel engines are hard to come by and expensive, rationed due to zero-emission truck sales requirements.”
Spear decried the agreement CARB struck with the Clean Truck Partnership, a consortium of truck makers, as “deeply flawed and coercive,” and urged the organization to vacate the pact, citing a lawsuit filed by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and the “shifting political landscape,” which should allow the manufacturers to partner with their customers to advance their shared goal of reducing emissions.
“As your customers and partners, we ask that you work with all members of the American Trucking Associations to forge a viable path forward. Abandon the CTP and work with us and the incoming Administration in Washington to reopen Greenhouse Gas Phase 3 and revise it with achievable, national standards that put our industry on a sustainable and successful path towards a zero-emissions vehicle future,” Spear wrote.
ATA Truck Tonnage Index Contracted 1.9% in November
Washington, DC… Trucking activity in the United States contracted in November, according to the American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index, just the second decrease since July.
“The frustratingly choppy freight environment continued in November,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “Since hitting a low in January of this year, tonnage is up a total of 1.1%, but the path has been fraught with nice gains one month only to come back down the next. The good news is that the overall trend this year is up, albeit at a slow rate.”
In November, the ATA advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index equaled 112.5 compared with 114.6 in October. The index, which is based on 2015 as 100, was down 1% from the same month last year.
The not seasonally adjusted index, which calculates raw changes in tonnage hauled, equaled 109.6 in November, 9.6% below October.
The seasonally adjusted decrease follows a sequential 1.2% gain in October, which was unchanged from the November 19 press release.
Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.6% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.46 billion tons of freight in 2022. Motor carriers collected $940.8 billion, or 80.7% of total revenue earned by all transport modes.
Both indices are dominated by contract freight, as opposed to traditional spot market freight. The tonnage index is calculated on surveys from its membership and has been doing so since the 1970s. This is a preliminary figure and subject to change in the final report issued around the 5th day of each month. The report includes month-to-month and year-over-year results, relevant economic comparisons, and key financial indicators.
ATA Reveals Five Finalists for National Driver of the Year Award
Washington, DC… The American Trucking Associations announced the five professional truck driver finalists for the 2024 ATA National Driver of the Year Award sponsored by DMC Insurance, one of the trucking industry’s top awards.
The ATA National Driver of the Year Award sponsored by DMC Insurance acknowledges one notable professional driver for their career-long professional achievements and their excellence and commitment to safety on the road.
The National Driver of the Year is selected from a pool of outstanding state Drivers of the Year submitted by ATA’s affiliated state trucking associations. Each candidate’s qualifications and achievements are examined by a group of industry safety professional judges who narrow down the nominees to a group of finalists.
Here are the finalists for 2024:
Jay Williams has spent 20 years of his driving career with TCW, Inc., accumulating over three million accident-free miles. Mr. Williams was the winner of the TCW 20 Year Safe Driving Award in 2023 as well as becoming the Tennessee Driver of the Year in 2024.
Rollie Fugate has driven for Wal-Mart for 24.5 of his 47.5-year career on the roadways. Mr. Fugate has accumulated an impressive six million accident-free miles. Mr. Fugate was awarded the Nevada Driver of the Year Award for 2023.
Michael Bortz has driven for Sorensen Transport for 21 of his 43 total years in the industry. Mr. Bortz has accumulated 4.85 million accident-free miles over his career without sustaining a single accident. Recently Michael was awarded the 2024 Montana Driver of the Year Award.
Danny Tankersly has driven for WEL Companies for 14 of his 36 career years as a driver. During his time on the road, Mr. Tankersly has amassed 4.6 million accident-free miles and counting. Mr. Tankersly has been awarded the WEL Companies Driver of the Year Award 11 times, as well as a 13-year Safe Driving Award Winner, and recently the WMCA 2023 Driver of the Year.
Thomas Miller has driven for 25 years for Prime Inc. out of Missouri. Mr. Miller has accumulated 3.5 million accident-free miles as a Prime employee and 3.8 million accident-free miles in his career. He has also been awarded multiple awards including but not limited to MOTA Professional Excellence Award (2019), Missouri Trucking Association Driver of the Year (2016/2023), as well as serving as one of ATA America's Road Team Captains.
The Safety Management Council Awards & Recognition Committee judges each video submission and selects a winner. The winner will be announced at ATA’s Safety, Security and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition, which will be held in Louisville, KY, on April 23 – 25, 2025.