Trucking Shortage Drives Up Freight Costs for Businesses

Trucking Shortage Drives Up Freight Costs for Businesses

Shrinking truckload capacity is a top concern for shippers, driven by factors like the ELD mandate, driver shortages, and manufacturing growth. Intermodal transportation emerges as a crucial strategy to combat capacity challenges. Businesses need to optimize their supply chains and select appropriate intermodal solutions to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Focusing on strategic intermodal implementation allows companies to navigate the current capacity constraints and build more resilient and cost-effective supply chains.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Supply Chain Strains Amid Truck Driver Shortage High Turnover

US Supply Chain Strains Amid Truck Driver Shortage High Turnover

The US trucking industry faces a high driver turnover crisis, with large freight companies experiencing rates as high as 90%. Contributing factors include industry models, the ELD mandate, and difficulties in obtaining a CDL. Analysts predict potential increases in freight rates or a shift towards intermodal transportation. Solutions involve improving driver compensation and working conditions, embracing new technologies, and streamlining regulations. Addressing these issues is crucial to mitigating the freight crisis and controlling rising logistics costs.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Truckers Challenge Elog Mandate Over Rights Safety Fears

Truckers Challenge Elog Mandate Over Rights Safety Fears

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is again challenging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)'s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate, arguing it infringes upon driver rights and fails to effectively address safety concerns. OOIDA's challenge directly targets regulatory loopholes, advocating for a balance between road safety and driver rights, seeking a win-win solution for the industry. The association believes the current regulations are flawed and need revision to better serve both safety and the needs of professional truck drivers.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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FMCSA Chief Considers ELD Rule Adjustments for Small Fleets

FMCSA Chief Considers ELD Rule Adjustments for Small Fleets

Raymond Martinez is expected to lead the FMCSA, promising to listen to small fleets' concerns regarding the ELD mandate and support reforms to the CSA scoring system. His appointment could bring a new balance and development opportunities to the US trucking industry. The industry anticipates his pragmatic and innovative approach, hoping he will create a safer and more efficient future. He aims to address the challenges faced by smaller carriers while striving for overall improvement in safety and compliance within the trucking sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

A DAT report reveals that North American freight spot rates have surged to multi-year highs due to various factors. The confluence of challenges, including hurricane disasters, the ELD mandate, and the e-commerce peak season, is expected to maintain tight capacity through the end of the year. The close connection between e-commerce and the spot market is also increasingly evident. High demand driven by online retail is contributing significantly to the upward pressure on freight rates and the overall capacity crunch in the trucking industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Washington Potato Industry Struggles with Truck Shortage Delays

Washington Potato Industry Struggles with Truck Shortage Delays

Washington State potato growers are facing a truck shortage crisis due to a combination of factors including the ELD mandate, natural disasters, and long-standing industry issues, hindering product transportation. Farmers are actively seeking alternative solutions. Addressing the shortage requires improving driver compensation and working conditions, promoting technological innovation, and strengthening industry regulations. The potato industry needs to enhance collaboration, plan ahead, diversify market risks, and improve product quality to overcome these challenges. The situation highlights the fragility of the agricultural supply chain and the need for proactive measures to ensure efficient distribution.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Industry Debates Speed Limiter Mandate

US Trucking Industry Debates Speed Limiter Mandate

The U.S. Department of Transportation's proposed truck speed limiter mandate is generating controversy. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) questions its safety implications and underlying data, urging further evaluation. While some companies support the measure, business owners should actively participate in the ongoing discussion. Concerns revolve around potential unintended consequences and the need for comprehensive research to ensure the mandate enhances, rather than hinders, truck safety and overall transportation efficiency. A balanced approach that considers diverse perspectives is crucial for effective policy development.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Prepares for Major ELD Rule Overhaul

Trucking Industry Prepares for Major ELD Rule Overhaul

The Electronic Logging Device (ELD) final rule, expected in mid-November, will significantly impact the trucking industry. This analysis explores the opportunities and challenges of ELD implementation, including improved compliance, optimized operational efficiency, and industry consolidation. It also addresses concerns about driver shortages and potential productivity declines. In the long term, ELDs are expected to drive the trucking industry towards greater intelligence and efficiency. This transformation will require careful planning and adaptation from all stakeholders involved to maximize the benefits and mitigate potential drawbacks.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Faces ELD Rules Speed Limiter Disputes

Trucking Industry Faces ELD Rules Speed Limiter Disputes

The US trucking industry faces challenges from Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and speed limiter mandates. Truck drivers strongly oppose these regulations, citing privacy concerns, increased costs, and reduced efficiency. These regulations can significantly impact the supply chain, potentially leading to higher freight rates, longer delivery times, and capacity shortages. Supply chain managers need to closely monitor regulatory developments, assess potential impacts, and collaborate with carriers to optimize transportation plans and mitigate these challenges. Careful planning and proactive communication are crucial for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Faces Uncertainty As ELD Deadline Nears

Trucking Industry Faces Uncertainty As ELD Deadline Nears

U.S. states exhibit varying paces in Electronic Logging Device (ELD) compliance, with some opting for delayed implementation, sparking discussions about transportation costs, capacity shortages, and industry impact. The ELD implementation presents both challenges and opportunities for the trucking industry. Industry players need to proactively address and adapt to the changes. The inconsistencies in state-level enforcement create complexities for interstate trucking operations and raise questions about the overall effectiveness of nationwide ELD mandates. Navigating these regulatory discrepancies is crucial for maintaining compliance and optimizing operational efficiency.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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