US Truck Tariffs Stir Debate Over Domestic Manufacturing Costs

US Truck Tariffs Stir Debate Over Domestic Manufacturing Costs

The 25% US tariff on imported trucks aims to boost domestic manufacturing, but may increase cost pressures for fleets, OEMs, and suppliers in the short term. In the long run, it could drive the upgrading and transformation of the US truck manufacturing industry. Businesses need to actively adjust their strategies to cope with the new market landscape. This policy change necessitates careful planning and adaptation within the automotive sector to mitigate potential negative impacts and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Recent data shows Class 8 truck backlogs at a decade high, highlighting logistics and supply chain bottlenecks. Multiple factors, including economic recovery, infrastructure stimulus, and e-commerce growth, are driving demand, while capacity constraints exacerbate supply-demand imbalances. Order backlogs lead to delivery delays and increased costs. Calls are being made to increase capacity, optimize supply chains, and encourage technological innovation to address the challenges and seize opportunities presented by the surge in demand.

RXO Rises As Major Truck Brokerage Firm Postxpo Spinoff

RXO Rises As Major Truck Brokerage Firm Postxpo Spinoff

RXO officially launched after a successful spin-off from XPO Logistics, marking the birth of a technology-driven, pure-play truck brokerage company. The company focuses on organic growth, leveraging technological innovation and efficient operations to expand market share in a competitive market. RXO aims to provide customers with faster and more cost-effective logistics solutions. The company will continue to monitor macroeconomic developments and flexibly adjust its market strategies to achieve sustainable growth.

California Eases Truck Weight Limits to Reduce Port Backlogs

California Eases Truck Weight Limits to Reduce Port Backlogs

To alleviate congestion at the Port of San Pedro Bay, California temporarily relaxed truck weight limits, allowing increased loads on specific routes. This measure aims to improve transportation efficiency but raises safety concerns. This article analyzes the policy's background, objectives, impacts, and potential risks. It explores systemic solutions to port congestion, emphasizing the need to balance efficiency with safety and focusing on building a more resilient long-term supply chain system. The temporary relaxation highlights the ongoing challenges in optimizing the supply chain amidst growing demands.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Truck Tonnage Edges Up in October Holds Steady

US Truck Tonnage Edges Up in October Holds Steady

According to the American Trucking Associations, the seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index for October in the U.S. was 135.7, up 1.9% from September. The unadjusted index was 139.8, a 0.9% increase from September. The data indicates a slight increase in freight volume, but overall, it remains within a stable range, reflecting a cautious economic recovery.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Iowa Weighs Shorter Truck Following Distances to Boost Platooning

Iowa Weighs Shorter Truck Following Distances to Boost Platooning

Iowa is considering easing following distance restrictions for truck platooning, sparking discussions about technological advancements outpacing regulations and potential job impacts. This technology offers benefits such as improved fuel efficiency and safety, but also faces technical, safety, and regulatory challenges. Governments, businesses, and the public need to collaborate to navigate the transformation of the trucking industry. The debate highlights the need for proactive policy-making to address the implications of autonomous driving technologies in transportation and ensure a smooth transition for all stakeholders.

Truck Drivers Face ELD Mandate Deadline for Digital Logs

Truck Drivers Face ELD Mandate Deadline for Digital Logs

A U.S. court upheld the ELD mandate, signaling a digital shift in the trucking industry. While ELDs aim to improve safety and efficiency, they've raised concerns among drivers regarding privacy and costs. Capacity may tighten, and prices could rise, potentially reshaping the industry and accelerating technological innovation. The mandate represents a significant change, forcing adaptation and highlighting the evolving landscape of freight transportation in the United States.

01/19/2026 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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