US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

The US imposed a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks, aiming to revitalize domestic manufacturing. However, this could lead to higher truck prices, increased transportation costs, and potential trade wars. The impact on the trucking industry and freight carriers is significant, requiring businesses to closely monitor policy changes and take countermeasures. The future direction of the policy remains uncertain. This action has far-reaching consequences for the entire supply chain and could ultimately affect consumer prices as well.

House Committee Seeks Review of Truck Driver Hours Rules

House Committee Seeks Review of Truck Driver Hours Rules

The U.S. House Transportation Committee is urging the Government Accountability Office to review the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's revisions to truck driver Hours of Service (HOS) rules, focusing on their safety and economic impacts. The review will emphasize the effectiveness of HOS restart rule studies and regulatory impact analyses. This aims to inform future decisions, balancing safety, efficiency, and economic benefits within the trucking industry. The committee seeks a comprehensive assessment to ensure regulations are data-driven and promote both driver well-being and a robust supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Truck Driver Shortage Spurs Calls for Safety Pay Reforms

Truck Driver Shortage Spurs Calls for Safety Pay Reforms

The truck driver shortage isn't about a lack of positions, but rather the unattractive compensation and working conditions. High turnover rates reflect the industry's struggles. Walmart's increased driver pay is a positive step. The key to solving the problem lies in providing safe, meaningful work with fair compensation, improving working conditions, building trust, and elevating the status of drivers. Addressing these issues is crucial to attracting and retaining talent in the trucking industry.

North Americas Class 8 Truck Orders Hit Sharp Decline

North Americas Class 8 Truck Orders Hit Sharp Decline

North American Class 8 truck orders experienced a significant decline in October, signaling a potential market downturn. Supply chain issues have constrained OEM production capacity, hindering order growth. Despite challenges like limited capacity and rising costs, the logistics industry is also seeing opportunities in technological innovation, a thriving used truck market, and the emergence of alternative transportation modes. Moving forward, the industry needs to actively embrace change to find opportunities for growth amidst uncertainty.

Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Purdue University a $5 million grant to research truck platooning, focusing on improving fuel efficiency and communication between vehicles. The project aims to enhance the fuel economy of heavy-duty trucks by 20%. This initiative explores the potential of coordinated driving strategies to reduce aerodynamic drag and optimize fuel consumption within a convoy of trucks. The research will also address the challenges of maintaining safe following distances and reliable communication in real-world platooning scenarios, contributing to advancements in smart logistics and sustainable transportation.

Greenpoint Invests 1B in Outpost for Truck Terminal Expansion

Greenpoint Invests 1B in Outpost for Truck Terminal Expansion

Outpost secures a significant investment from GreenPoint, scaling its truck terminal network to $1 billion. This funding will accelerate Outpost's network expansion, broaden its service offerings, and further develop its gate automation platform. The initiative aims to improve trucking efficiency, reduce operational costs, and drive positive change within the logistics industry. Outpost plans to leverage the investment to enhance its technology and infrastructure, ultimately providing a more streamlined and efficient experience for carriers and shippers alike, solidifying its position as a key player in the modern logistics landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Shippers Urged to Reduce Truck Driver Detention for Safety

Shippers Urged to Reduce Truck Driver Detention for Safety

Driver detention not only causes significant economic losses but also threatens road safety. Shippers' long-term absence and shifting responsibility to carriers create a vicious cycle. Shippers should proactively optimize warehouse operations, introduce technology, provide comfortable waiting environments, and establish fair detention compensation mechanisms. Building transparent communication with carriers is crucial to create a safe, efficient, and caring transportation future, achieving a win-win situation for all parties. This includes addressing issues like long wait times and lack of amenities for drivers.

GAO Urges FMCSA to Reform Truck Safety Rating System

GAO Urges FMCSA to Reform Truck Safety Rating System

A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights the FMCSA's slow progress in improving the CSA safety measurement system, hindering the effective identification of high-risk trucking companies. The report recommended modifications to the SMS methodology, which the FMCSA did not agree with. Industry associations and experts are urging the FMCSA to re-evaluate and enhance the CSA system to more effectively reduce accident rates and ensure road safety. The current system's shortcomings raise concerns about its ability to adequately address risks posed by unsafe carriers.

US Truck Tonnage Declines in May Signaling Freight Slowdown

US Truck Tonnage Declines in May Signaling Freight Slowdown

The American Trucking Associations reported a slight decrease of 0.7% in the For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index for May, but an increase of 3.7% year-over-year. Despite short-term fluctuations, the overall tonnage remains higher than the same period last year. Gasoline demand and retail inventory rebuilding are supporting factors, but driver shortages remain a challenge. Close attention should be paid to macroeconomic conditions, industry data, and policy changes to strengthen risk management and explore new business models. This highlights the ongoing complexities and potential opportunities within the trucking sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Denham Amendment Sparks Debate on Truck Driver Pay Regulation

Denham Amendment Sparks Debate on Truck Driver Pay Regulation

The Denham Amendment aims to limit state-level wage regulations for truck drivers, sparking a conflict of interest between transportation companies and drivers. Supporters argue it could reduce operating costs, while opponents worry about the erosion of driver rights. The political prospects and potential impacts of the amendment will significantly affect the trucking industry. The amendment's future and its influence on driver compensation and operational efficiency are key concerns for stakeholders.