Truck Amok | Trucking industry news blog

Social Media for Trucking Industry Professionals

2009-01-28T15:09:00.003-06:00

FleetOwner.com offers a variety of social media and social networking applications to help you connect with others within the commercial trucking industry.

Designed for trucking industry professionals, including fleet managers/owners, long-haul truckers, owner/operators, the Social Media Newsroom summarizes all of these services and how to utilize them.

Obama impact on trucking industry

2009-01-20T12:30:00.000-06:00

Obama takes office, plans massive economic, environmental changes (Fleet Owner)

Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States today, and the transportation industry waits to see the impact of the economic and environmental plans the new President has promised to implement.

Highway safety analysis

2009-01-12T14:44:00.001-06:00

Why Highway Watch failed (Fleet Owner)

According to a government report, the American Trucking Assns.’ (ATA) recently discontinued Highway Watch program was able to reach participant enrollment targets, yet received too few calls to warrant its continuation.

Trucking industry layoffs keep coming

2009-01-07T14:07:00.001-06:00

Trucking industry layoffs keep coming (Fleet Owner)

Both motor carriers and trucking’ suppliers cut jobs during 2008 to help streamline operations as a weak marketplace cut deeply into profits. However, the number of layoffs has climbed still higher over the last few weeks.

Trucking Photos

2008-12-19T13:32:00.002-06:00

Check out Bulk Transporter's new and improved photo gallery page, featuring trucking images from some of its magazine features and news article.

Latest Trucking Industry Headlines

2008-10-23T09:30:00.000-05:00

Daimler cutting jobs, closing Sterling Trucks plant

2008-10-14T12:51:00.003-05:00

Daimler closing Sterling, reshaping North American operations (Fleet Owner)

In a major restructuring of Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), its parent Daimler AG announced that it will end production of the Sterling brand, close its Portland, OR, and St. Thomas, Ontario, truck plants, and move production of Western Star trucks to a new plant in Saltillo, Mexico, which is already slated to take over some production of the Freightliner Cascadia next year. The moves will cost approximately $600 million and result in the loss of 1,200 salaried positions and as many as 2,300 plant jobs, according to the company.

Other Daimler job cuts, restructuring articles:

DTNA will shut Sterling Trucks, close plants, cut jobs (Bulk Transporter)
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is taking dramatic steps to meet the challenges of the current depressed market for heavy-duty trucks. Company officials announced October 14 that DTNA would eliminate 3,500 jobs, drop the Sterling Trucks brand, and shut two North American plants.

DTNA's strategy brings an end to Sterling Trucks (Refrigerated Transporter)
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) announced a comprehensive plan to adjust and strengthen company operations in response to continuing depressed demand across the industry and structural changes in the company’s core markets.

Sterling Trucks Brand Discontinued (Trailer/Body Builders)
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) today announced that it will discontinue the Sterling Trucks brand in March and cease truck manufacturing operations at the St. Thomas, Ontario, plant.

Sterling Trucks comes to an end (Fleet Owner)

Other trucking industry headlines from Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2008:

Fleet Owner
BBTS truck and bus sales president to retire

Trailer/Body Builders
Medium and Heavy Truck Sales Down 15%
Navistar Expands Hybrid Truck Line
Kenworth of Pennsylvania Adds New Location in Clintonville

Blogs

The waters reach reality (Trucks At Work)
So it looks like the “intermodal-by-sea” concept to create “marine highways” for U.S. freight is going to become reality sooner rather than later.

FEMA to charge rent for Greensburg trailers

2008-10-10T12:26:00.000-05:00

From the Associated Press:

GREENSBURG, Kan. | The Federal Emergency Management Agency plans to start charging rent for its trailers being used by Greensburg residents displaced by last year’s tornado.

Eighteen months after the massive twister all but wiped out the Kansas town, FEMA sent a letter saying that residents still living in agency trailers would pay $667 per month in rent.

Resident Jackie Scheuerman said Thursday she plans on moving out of her FEMA trailer to avoid having to pay an “outrageous” amount for rent because she needs the money to finish rebuilding her home. Instead she and her family will live in their half-finished house.

City Administrator Steve Hewitt questions whether $667 per month is fair market value for Kansas and Greensburg, and he’s trying to convince the agency to lower the price.

Hewitt said, “I just don’t want to lose citizens.”

ATA renews attack on port trucking plan

2008-10-10T12:11:00.002-05:00

Top trucking, logistics news articles:

ATA renews attack on port trucking plan (Fleet Owner)
The American Trucking Assns. (ATA) fired the latest salvo in the ongoing battle over the controversial truck replacement plan put into effect by the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach on Oct. 1.

Fuel, economy worry trucking executives (Bulk Transporter)
Carriers are worrying most about the cost of fuel and the nation’s economy as it impacts the trucking industry, according to an American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) survey.

Group Calls Airport Slot Auctions Illegal (Outsourced Logistics)
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) condemned the final rule issued by the Bush Administration, which allows the government to confiscate and auction airport take-off and landing slots at New York’s airports as an ineffective and illegal way to alleviate flight delays.

European Trailer Market ‘Brutal’ (Trailer/Body Builders)
Component manufacturers were reporting a massive decline in demand from heavy trailer manufacturers, with orders down by as much as 50%. There were rumors of 20,000 to 30,000 unsold trailers littering the fields of Europe.

Sun helps ease Fresh & Easy’s energy bills (Refrigerated Transporter)
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market announced that the solar panel installation at its California distribution center is providing nearly three quarters of the facility’s energy. In a time of rising energy costs, solar power is helping ease the grocer’s energy bills.

Other trucking, logistic industry headlines from Friday, Oct. 10, 2008:

Outsourced Logistics
Much Work Ahead For YRC Says Analyst
SubTropolis Hosts Education Initiative
Lowry To Supply Government RFID Solutions
Deloitte and Sterling Commerce Enter Strategic Alliance
State of the Port Highlights Savannah Achievements
Group Calls Airport Slot Auctions Illegal

Fleet Owner
Eaton promotes John Sczesny
Circadian and Sleep Pointe to jointly battle apnea
Roadranger widens synthetic gear lube availability
SmartWay recognizes 27 for green efforts

Bulk Transporter
Freight Index falls in August
Mack, Volvo to continue ATA safety sponsorship
Schneider wins SmartWay award
Mack wins environmental award
SBA offers hurricane disaster loans
OSHA holds PPE proposal hearing
Michigan posts licensing information
Several situations impact natural gas prices

Trailer/Body Builders
NTEA Receives Three Prestigious Diamond Awards
NTEA Recognizes 13 New MVP Companies

Blogs

The human element (Trucks At Work)
"We tend to forget at times that trucking is, at its heart, all about people. The steel, chrome, and ribbons of asphalt, along with terms such as asset utilization, cost per mile, and lane optimization work to obscure the human element inexorably interwoven throughout this industry – the drivers, maintenance techs, dispatchers, load planners, warehouse workers, etc."

The General speaks (Reading Between the Lines)
"Time was when the saying “As goes General Motors, so goes the nation” held much sway. The days when that one corporation–or any one corporation for that metter– could have such inlfuence on our country’s well-being may be long gone but that doesn ‘t mean the disappearance of GM would not have a horrible impact not only on our fragile economy directly but also on the national pysche– which in the end drives our economy more than anything else."

Bailout's impact on trucking industry

2008-10-06T15:02:00.001-05:00

What the bailout could mean to trucking (Fleet Owner)

According to trucking industry analysts, it is difficult to forecast exactly what impact the $700 billion financial-market bailout signed into law on Friday will have on credit availability and the trucking industry in general.

Passed by a 263 to 171 vote in the House of Representatives, the bill was signed into law by President Bush two hours later. There is hope that this measure will keep the financial crisis from getting worse, although there is disagreement on whether we’ve hit bottom yet.

“It’s not just the truckers and the fleets that will have trouble getting credit—it’s all businesses,” Eric Starks, president of FTR Associates, told FleetOwner. “Smaller guys will be hit the hardest because they will have so much trouble getting financing.”

Ford launches redesigned F-150 pickup, built at Claycomo

2008-10-03T10:21:00.001-05:00

Ford launches redesigned F-150 pickup, built at Claycomo (KC Star)

"As speakers inside Ford Motor Co.’s Claycomo plant touted the 2009 F-150 pickup Thursday, new trucks slowly moved along the assembly line behind them.

There was no shutdown of production during the ceremonial launch of the redesigned F-150.

“Consumers want this great truck, so we couldn’t stop the line,” Ford executive Joe Hinrichs told a cheering crowd of plant workers, Ford dealers and local politicians.

Even in a depressed automotive industry in which high gasoline prices have crippled the truck and big-SUV market, the F-series remains the best-selling vehicle in the country. Sales of the F-series were off 27 percent through September, but the 392,698 F-series trucks sold still make it the top seller.

Still, local Ford workers have been concerned after the automaker cut F-150 production to one shift at Claycomo and eliminated a third F-150 shift at its Dearborn, Mich., plant. In the past two years, Ford also has stopped making F-150s at two other plants as several truck and SUV factories are being converted to produce smaller vehicles.

At Claycomo, Ford added a third shift to build Ford Escape/Mercury Mariner compact SUVs when it dropped the second truck shift.

For them, Hinrichs had some reassuring words.

“There’s been a lot of talk about the truck business,” said Hinrichs, group vice president of global manufacturing and labor relations. “The truck business is strong, and the truck business is important for this plant.”

Last month on a visit to Kansas City, Hinrichs reiterated that Ford planned to continue building F-150s at two plants, noting the shipping advantages of the Claycomo plant being in the middle of the country for markets to the west and south.

“We like having the truck in two plants,” he said at a forum of journalists. “Logistically, it’s better for us.”

Given how much truck capacity the domestic automakers already are taking out of their operations, Ford can be expected to continue to build the F-150 at two plants, said David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich. Both plants will be needed to produce more trucks once the construction industry and overall economy recover, he said.

“I would say it’s hard to imagine Ford without two significant F-series plants building light-duty trucks,” he said. “I think Ford’s competitors would love it if the company went down to one plant.”

Ford executives and engineers say the new F-150 has industry-leading features such as the highest towing and hauling capability as well as an 8 percent improvement in fuel economy across its various versions. The F-150 SFE will get 15 miles to the gallon in the city and 21 on the highway."

Trucking Industry Photo Galleries

2008-09-30T14:23:00.003-05:00

The following Web sites have active trucking industry photo galleries, including Refrigerated Transporter, Bulk Transporter and Trailer/Body Builders:

Refrigerated Transporter Photo Gallery

Bulk Transporter Photo Gallery

Trailer/Body Builders Photo Gallery

Alternative technology on display at Fleet Day

2008-09-30T14:17:00.003-05:00

Alternative technology on display at Fleet Day (Fleet Owner)

"FRAMINGHAM, MA. For fleet managers, AltWheel’s 4th Annual Fleet Day was the place to be on Monday. The event at Staples World Headquarters featured more than 27 alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles as well as dozens of sessions in which fleet managers and industry experts could discuss the latest in green technologies."

Other trucking industry headlines from Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
Truckstop diesel volumes decline
Diesel price climbs slightly
Colonial Pipeline returns to normal
NAFTA surface trade rises in July
Blackwater acquires New Orleans terminal
Greenhunter recovering from Hurricane Ike
TWIC entry required for more ports

Fleet Owner
Eco-driving tips offer big fuel savings
FleetOwner scores gold “Eddie”
Diesel prices remain at $3.96
New bus chassis from Freightliner Custom Chassis
Pilot Travel Centers to carry DEF “at the pump”

Trailer/Body Builders
Wabash’s Cadiz Operations Up and Running
Volvo Trucks Reduces Capacity in Europe

Blogs

Shock therapy
"It’s the little things about my dad that always got my attention. Growing up, I didn’t get it: he made beds so well you could bounce quarters off them – literally. He ironed and pressed his dress shirts, slacks, even golf outfits better than any dry cleaning shop could."

Trucking Around the World

Volvo cuts truck production, jobs as European demand falls (Reuters)World number two truck maker Volvo said on Tuesday it was scaling back production and cutting about 1,400 jobs as the crisis in financial markets hit demand in Europe, its biggest market. Volvo, which makes trucks under the Renault, Mack, Nissan Diesel and Eicher brands as well as its own name, said its Volvo Trucks arm would begin negotiations with unions on the staff cuts at plants in Belgium and Sweden.

Australian fatigue laws inconsistent and confusing, trucking industry says (Transport and Logistics News)
The “patchy” new heavy vehicle fatigue laws lack consistency across borders and will stir confusion, the trucking industry has argued.

Europe will import more diesel in the next decade, commission says (The Guardian)
Europe's reliance on imported diesel will grow over the coming decade due to insufficient investment in refining capacity, bringing higher pump prices while adding to worries about energy security.

Oregon woman accused of setting tow truck on fire

2008-09-23T13:41:00.000-05:00

Oregon woman accused of setting tow truck on fire (Associated Press)

"A Portland woman who allegedly set a tow truck on fire as the driver was preparing to take her car faces arson and criminal mischief charges. A twenty-year-old woman was arraigned last week.

Court papers said the tow truck driver went to a Portland apartment complex Tuesday to tow the illegally parked car and became surrounded by an angry crowd.

The driver offered to release the car for $150, but police said the woman threatened to set the truck on fire if he didn't release the car.

The driver locked himself in the cab and called 911 and was told soon after that his truck was ablaze. He put it out with a fire extinguisher.

The woman's bond was set at $225,000. Her next court date is Thursday."

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel systems gain foothold in ports

2008-09-22T14:43:00.002-05:00

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel systems gain foothold in ports (Fleet Owner)

"Ports, communities and businesses across the country have started looking at liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel systems as an environmentally friendly solution to clean air and emissions concerns. The eight Kenworth T800s equipped with LNG fuel systems that went into full-time drayage service in California last month under the Clean Trucks Program are an example of how the emerging technology is beginning to make an impact."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, Sept. 22, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Special photo log: Hurricane Ike damage
Sprint teams up with Fenway Partners
OPW introduces underground fueling system
Rand McNally to use Navteq map data

Refrigerated Transporter
Exel orders ReeferTrak systems for its fleet
Green Edge offers HACCP wireless temp monitoring

Trailer/Body Builders
Polk Forecasts 723,000 Class 3-8 New Vehicle Registrations in 2012
NAM Survey Shows Optimism About Sales, Investment, Growth
Old Dominion Freight Line Inc. Relocates Service Center to Lubbock, Texas

Blogs

Selling all of your value
"Beware becoming a commodity – that’s a critical piece of advice many transportation experts tell me truckers must internalize. I’ve heard this warning for years and it’s spot-on. Just look around this industry today – it’s littered with bankrupt fleets and owner-operators not so much because diesel prices set new records earlier this year (above $5 a gallon in many parts of the U.S.) but because truckers could not get shippers to pay adequate fuel surcharges to cover the increased cost of fuel."

Nigeria, China increase trade (Nigerian Tribune)

Nigeria and China are working to boost more economic collaborations in many areas including science and technology, reports Christian Okeke.

420 attend Latin Asia Business Forum in Singapore to discuss trade between the regions

Some 420 business delegates from 21 countries are attending Latin Asia Business Forum (LAB) here on Monday to to learn more about opportunities in the two regions.

Hurricane Ike Photo Gallery

2008-09-19T15:16:00.002-05:00

Check out a photo gallery of images following Hurricane Ike from Bulk Transporter

Trucker death investigation continues

2008-09-19T07:55:00.001-05:00

Person of interest sought in rest stop killing (KC Star)

"The Missouri State Highway Patrol is looking for a woman who may have information in the shooting death of a trucker at a Platte County rest stop.

The person of interest is described as a white woman, approximately 30 years old, 5’6” to 5’7” tall, with a thin build, shoulder-length reddish-blond hair and freckles. She was wearing a blouse with a collar and an unbuttoned jacket or sweater and reportedly has a slight Southern accent.

Investigators also are trying to locate occupants of a white SUV that was seen at the rest area around the time of the homicide.

A motorist discovered the body of 39-year-old Valentin G. Kirilchuk about 8 p.m. Sept. 8 at the rest area just north of Platte City on Interstate 29.

Anyone with information should call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (474-8477). A reward of $1,000 is available for tips leading to the killer’s conviction."

AIG Federal Reserve Board loan

2008-09-17T15:17:00.004-05:00

Fed lends $85 billion to save AIG (Fleet Owner)

"Believing that its failure would further weaken the financial market, the Federal Reserve Board has authorized the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to lend up to $85 billion to the American International Group (AIG). The Federal Reserve said that the loan would be repaid from the proceeds of the sale of parts of the firm’s assets, which will be sold off “in an orderly manner, with the least possible disruption to the overall economy,” with the U.S. Government receiving a 79.9% equity interest in AIG."

Other trucking and logistics industry news from Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2008:

Fleet Owner
OTC offers diagnostic software for Ford vehicles
Karmak updates Director Series software
Eaton names Aguerrevere to global marketing post
Bridgestone Bandag offers new fuel economy guide

Bulk Transporter
EPA reminder: Report storm spills

Refrigerated Transporter
U.S. Foodservice shutting two South Carolina sites
FHWA rejects PennDOT Interstate 80 toll proposal

Outsourced Logistics
DHL Executive Testifies on UPS Deal
Eurotunnel Freight Moving After Fire
Estes Launches Nationwide Brokerage
Ruan Hauls Hurricane Relief Supplies
A&B Acquires Warehousing & Distribution Company
Coalition Applauds Crackdown in the San Pedro Bay Ports
Army Reserve Joins Schneider National in Employer Partnership
A Bed To Sleep In
Port of Montreal Reports High Growth
The Highway Trust Fund Gets an $8 Billion Fix
LA Port Truck Plan Passes Another Hurdle
Salary Budgets Projected Below 4% for 2008 and 2009
Container Volumes Could Drop By 6%
Paint Me Green
ABF Speeds and Expands Its Regional Service

Trailer/Body Builders
Firestone To Close Noblesville Air-Spring Plant
Cummins Recognized as Sustainability Leader
NTEA Expands Green Truck Summit, Exhibits and Activities

Blogs

Forgetting the doing
"There’s a couple of reasons I think we’re racing pell mell over the edge of reason and financial ruin right now in the U.S. (the federal government just loaned American Insurance Group over $80 billion so it could stay in business – an INSURANCE company in need of a loan to stay afloat! There’s some rich irony)"

$100 million going towards transportation-reloading terminals on Kazakhstan/China border (Cargo News Asia)

A logistic zone is planned for the border of Kazakhstan and China. There will be transportation-reloading terminals, which accounts for US$100 million investment, commerce exhibition areas, hotels infrastructure and a centre for business cooperation, according to China Economic Review.

European Union gives support to Nabucco pipeline (Kommersant)
Since the war in Georgia, the search has heated up for energy sources and routes to transport them on without passing through Russia. Last weekend, leaders of Eastern European countries called on Europe to end its dependency on Russian energy sources, and the European Union made an important step in that direction when Greece reached an agreement on the direct supply of Azerbaijani natural gas to Europe, Baku and Ashgabat gave their support to the Nabucco pipeline and Hungary announced a forum to finalize that project, which would deliver gas while bypassing Russia.

Australian trucks forced to detour 6.8 km due to railway crossing (Daily Liberal)
Key stakeholders are involved in a push to solve big problems associated with a single stop sign at the railway crossing in Boothenba Road. They want part of the Coonamble to Dubbo rail track curved and repositioned or a rail bridge installed to improve access to the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets.

Hurricane Ike's effect on trucking industry

2008-09-16T15:34:00.003-05:00

For complete coverage of Hurricane Ike and its effect on the trucking and logistics industry, please visit:

Hurricane Ike: Complete Coverage From Penton Media

Trucking industry news in Spanish

2008-09-12T12:55:00.005-05:00

Granted, the translation is likely terrible, but a link was added to Truck Amok to translate the site into Spanish. It can also be found in the upper-right corner of the home page.

And, also, there needed to be a reason to post this photo.

Highway Trust Fund legislation applauded by ATA

2008-09-12T10:11:00.005-05:00

ATA gives thumbs up on Highway Trust Fund boost (Bulk Transporter)

"The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is praising Congress for approving legislation that will transfer $8 billion into the Highway Trust Fund and keep it solvent, according to ATA information. The Senate approved HR 6532 by voice vote, shifting money from the general fund into the Highway Trust Fund, which was expected to run dry this month."

Other Bulk Transporter articles from Friday, Sept. 12, 2008:

Mexican company wins NACD process award
Association touts Algae biofuels
ATA to seek port injunction review

Over-the-road trucker found dead at rest stop identified

2008-09-11T08:41:00.004-05:00

Man found dead at rest stop identified -- St. Joseph (Mo.) News-Press

"PLATTE CITY, Mo. — Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers released the identification of the Springfield, Mo., man found dead Monday at an Interstate 29 rest stop north of Platte City.

Valentin G. Kirilchuk, 39, died from an apparent gunshot wound in a men’s lavatory at the rest area Monday, said Sgt. Scott Meyer, a spokesman for Highway Patrol Troop A. Mr. Kirilchuk was an over-the-road trucker who owned his own rig with his wife, Mr. Meyer said. His name wasn’t released earlier because of the pending notification of the next of kin, he said.

Mr. Kirilchuk was a U.S. citizen. Mr. Kirilchuk was hauling household goods thought to be headed for Oregon, Mr. Meyer said.

Mr. Kirilchuk lived in Springfield at the time of his death, but Missouri court records revealed that the victim received a misdemeanor motor vehicle citation in 2006 from a trooper in St. Charles County. At that time, Mr. Kirilchuk listed his home address as Vancouver, Wash. Calls to the Vancouver Police Department on Wednesday weren’t returned."

Cross Border Trucking Controversy (HR 6630)

2008-09-10T14:53:00.006-05:00

Border politics (Fleet Owner)
"Opponents of the controversial cross border trucking demonstration project received a big boost on Tuesday when the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill (H.R. 6630) to kill the program, 395-18."

Other trucking and logistics industry headlines from Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
Ruan hauls supplies to Gulf Coast storm victims
Freight TSI rises in July
Volvo coordinating DME project
Osage Bio to convert barley for ethanol

Fleet Owner
Bergstrom NITE system CARB-approved
New aluminum trailer from Fontaine
Michelin X One available at all PTP locations
Haldex valve automates lift axles

Outsourced Logistics
Labor Woes Hit Boeing and Alitalia
Sustainability a Supply Management Responsibility
UPS Expands in Louisville, Improves Transit Times
Speeding Up Yellow and Roadway Integration
TNT Recognized As Green
US Customs Focuses on High Risk, Not Singapore

Refrigerated Transporter
Stater Bros. delivers to new distribution center
Voxware Inc. supports LXE handheld computer

Trailer/Body Builders
Scania Brasil Receives Its Largest Truck Order Ever
House Votes To Stop Access For Mexican Trucks
Manufacturing Leaders Meet To Discuss Industry Challenges
China’s Heavy Truck Sales Up 48%

Blogs

Life on the road (Trucks At Work)
"It’s one of those fun highlights trucking reporters like me look forward to every year – the annual “King of the Road” survey conducted by Evansville, Ind.-based Atlas Van Lines, one of the largest moving and storage companies in the U.S."

Milk runs (Reading Between the Lines)
"In World War II slang (which for my money is among the most colorful to have had a lasting impact on the good old flexible English language), a “milk run” was a bombing mission flown in the skies of Europe that was routine and went well–that is no casualties were incurred, at least by the U.S Army Air Forces aircrew."

South Africans say heavy-duty trucks "a threat to the community" (The Mercury)
Clairwood residents have complained bitterly about heavy-duty trucks - which have claimed nine lives in the Durban suburb in the past three years - causing havoc in their neighbourhood ...

Australia's SeaLink buys New Zealand trucking company (Adelaide Now)
South Australian SeaLink Travel Group has taken a majority shareholding in New Zealand freight and trucking company Big B Cartage. The tourism and transport operator said the trucking company would be rebranded FreightLink in line with its existing frieght brand in New Zealand ...

Contractors look to build seven tollways in Macedonia (Southeast European Times)
Forty-eight companies and consortia have expressed interest in a prequalifying bid for concessions for seven tollways in Macedonia. The ministry of transport and communications says companies in Europe, China, India and North America filed letters of intent by the August 15th deadline ...

Truck driver found dead in Platte County, Mo.

2008-09-10T09:08:00.001-05:00

Death of man found at rest stop under investigation (St. Joseph (Mo.) News-Press)

"PLATTE CITY, Mo. — Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers continue to investigate the death of a man found Monday at the Interstate 29 rest stop north of Platte City. The victim is a 39-year-old white male from Springfield, Mo., said a communicator for Troop A of the Highway Patrol. Passers-by discovered a body at about 8 p.m. Monday at the northbound rest stop. Upon their arrival, officers found a deceased white male with an apparent gunshot wound lying on the floor in the men’s restroom, the Highway Patrol reported."

California Senator Offers Views on Transport Bill

2008-09-09T15:10:00.005-05:00

California Senator Offers Views on Transport Bill (Outsourced Logistics)

"While Mary Peters warns of Highway Trust Fund insolvency, Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) says work has begun on a new surface transportation bill."

Other trucking and logistics industry headlines from Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
PHMSA proposes narrowing hazmat list
ATA urging fund solvency
Hurricane Ike threatens Gulf, oil prices
Dana moving headquarters
IdleAire under new ownership
DHS notes new Manufacturing Council

Fleet Owner
ATA launches business-solutions service
YRC merges Yellow, Roadway
East offers sealed LED lighting
Old Dominion creates online rate estimate tool
Travelers Inland rolls out “sting” trailer

Outsourced Logistics
DHL Strengthens Global Network
UPS Launches Import Finance Group
Motor Carrier Segment Balancing Supply and Demand
Events Focus on Logistics
Joint Program Offers Logistics Courses

Trailer/Body Builders
Layton Truck Moves To New Denver Facility
Titan to Implement Price Increase

Blogs

Clean port clash
"It’s a situation in many ways just soaked in schadenfreude as the “clean truck plan” concocted by the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and due to go into full effect October 1 this year get shammered by the usual suspects – the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and Intermodal Motor Carriers Conference (IMCC) for starters – but also by groups traditionally considered allies in environmental efforts, such as National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)."

Other info

Outsourced Logistics Sept. issue now available online ...

Australian fatigue laws set to become law next month (ABC Rural)
The nation's late night trucking convoys could be fewer from next month, when fatigue laws crack down on driving between midnight and 6am.

Turkey invites Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan to help work on drilling projects (Hotnewsturkey.com)
Turkey's Energy Minister Hilmi Guler called on Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan to cooperate with Turkey in energy projects in the Black Sea and make joint energy investments, on Tuesday.

Economic Forum discusses Europe/Russia/Asia Pacific transporation corridor (Itar-Tiss News Agency)
The 5th Baikal Economic Forum (BEF) that opens here on Tuesday is held under the motto "Europe-Russia-Asia-Pacific Region: Roads of Integration and Cooperation".

Highway Trust Fund rescue has wide support

2008-09-08T14:09:00.003-05:00

Trust fund rescue has wide support (Fleet Owner)

"According to the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, failure to pass H.R. 6532 to transfer $8 billion to the Highway Trust Fund would result in the loss of nearly 400,000 construction jobs and would prevent the completion of more than $14 billion in necessary infrastructure projects."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, Sept. 8, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Forward Air acquires Service Express, Inc.
Tire-inflation system DVD
FTR to launch truck outlook report
Con-way expands driver wellness program

Trailer/Body Builders
Give Trailer/Body Builders your feedback
Navistar Defense Wins $752 Million Contract for Lighter MRAP Variant
Army Reserve Partners With Schneider National
ATA Introduces Business Solutions

Blogs

Contracting value – or trouble (Trucks At Work)

"Let’s face it – carriers are trying to sign up more and more owner-operators out there as contractors because it takes a lot of risk and capital investment off their books and places it on the owner-operator’s shoulders. Many carriers view it as an inexpensive way to add capacity and (one would hope) experienced professionals to their fleet."

Arkansas offers real-time drug test results

2008-08-29T11:08:00.004-05:00

Arkansas offers real-time drug test results (Fleet Owner)

"Nearly eight months after its creation, Arkansas’ one-of-a-kind online alcohol and drug test database for commercial truck drivers is getting positive feedback – and it’s being looked at as a possible model for developing a similar system for tracking alcohol and drug test results on a national basis."

Other trucking industry headlines from Friday, Aug. 29, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Load binder released
Wabash announces price increases
$14.7M designated to improve safety on rural roads
ATA submits brief in ports challenge

Trailer/Body Builders
Waltco Consolidates Manufacturing Operations

Blogs

Steel & Chrome (Trucks At Work)
"Since Labor Day is the holiday weekend that traditionally heralds the end of the summer, I thought we’d close things out with a bang and have a little fun – which for me means combining big rigs and heavy metal!"

Other stories

DOT Won’t Block DHL-UPS Air Deal (Transport Topics)
Transportation Secretary Mary Peters told Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland (D) she does not believe a plan by DHL Express to use UPS Inc. for its U.S. air cargo operations constitutes unfair competition.

June NAFTA trade up 6.6% from last year (Commercial Carrier Journal)
Trade using surface transportation between the United States and its North American Free Trade Agreement partners Canada and Mexico was 6.6 percent higher in June 2008 than in June 2007, reaching $74.1 billion, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Teamster Driver Speaks at Democratic National Convention (Truckinginfo.com)
Last night, more than 75,000 attendees to the Democratic National Convention in Denver heard from a real-life truck driver -- Teamster Roy Gross from Taylor, Michigan.

Choosing Up Sides at California Ports

2008-08-28T14:47:00.002-05:00

Choosing Up Sides at California Ports (Outsourced Logistics)

"Associations, legal entities and truckers are among those getting involved in the controversial program to be instituted at the nation’s busiest ports aimed at significantly lowering emissions and regulating drivers."

Other trucking and logistics industry headlines from Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Prophesy collaborates with Nationlink
NRS commits to L.A.’s clean port program
CargoWise edi names business development manager
LeasePlan announces CEO change
Major beverage distributor joins hybrid crowd
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) infrastructure in good shape

Outsourced Logistics
Fuel Surcharges Irrational
Jacksonville Port Elects Board Members
TNT Speedage Integration Complete
Office Depot Selects Hubspan
Modal Shift Affecting Intermodal
Three of Seven UK Airports May Have to Be Sold
DP Partners To Develop $37 Million Las Vegas Site
Public-Private Partnerships To Benefit California
Another Air Cargo Carrier Goes Out of Business

Trailer/Body Builders
Penton Launches Site to Connect Buyers, Sellers of HD Equipment
Con Edison Of New York Orders Hybrid Electric Trucks From Azure Dynamics
Discovery's Mike Rowe to Give Keynote Address at Work Truck Show

Blogs

Virtual truck training (Trucks At Work)
"Though it’s been rolling around the industry for over three years now, Dart Transit Co.’s mobile training simulator still gets people’s attention. The full-motion simulator is built into a 53-foot trailer that acts as both a classroom and as an exhibit for educating the public about the dangers drivers face on the highways – and the skills needed to overcome them."

Other stories

Utah's I-15 corridor project clears environmental review (etrucker.com)
Utah’s plans to build the Interstate 15 corridor in Utah County now can move forward, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Tuesday, Aug. 26.

Week-long closure of Chesapeake Bridge set for February (Thetrucker.com)
SUMMIT, Del. — Officials with the Army Corps of Engineers say the Summit Bridge over the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal will be closed for a week in February for an estimated $1 million repair project.

Economy rebounds in 2Q, mostly spurred by exports (Associated Press)
WASHINGTON - The economy shifted to a higher gear in the spring, growing at its fastest pace in nearly a year as foreign buyers snapped up U.S. exports and tax rebates spurred shoppers at home.

Refrigerated Transporter August issue now online

2008-08-27T13:02:00.003-05:00

Ford finds reliability with fuel cells

2008-08-27T11:28:00.003-05:00

Ford finds reliability with fuel cells (Fleet Owner)

"Ford Motor Co. research into the use of fuel cell propulsion systems – fueled by hydrogen gas – to power a range of vehicles finds that technology withstands real-world usage far better than expected."

Other trucking industry headlines from Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Arvin Meritor opens new axle plant
Tire panel to tackle fuel economy
Celadon to assist Priority with loads
GE’s my.FleetOffice launches
SmartScale now available for mechanical suspensions

Refrigerated Transporter
U.K. supermarket uses biomethane-fueled truck
Maple Leaf Foods expands voluntary product recall

Trailer/Body Builders
ArvinMeritor Dedicates Facility in Monterrey, Mexico
Volvo’s Deliveries Up 2% in July
ATA Truck Tonnage Index Falls 0.3% in July

Blogs

The eagle rises (Trucks At Work)
"It’s no wonder that precision, discipline, attention to detail, and resilience are deeply ingrained in Don Turkelson, as he served in the U.S. Army for 28 years – 21 on active duty and seven in the reserves – retiring at the rank of Lt. Colonel."

Other stories

Volvo’s North American Sales Drop 2% (Transport Topics)
Volvo AB said deliveries by its four truck brands rose 2% worldwide in July, and fell by 2% in North America, Bloomberg reported Wednesday.

ATA Tonnage Index Falls in July (Truckinginfo.com)
The American Trucking Associations' advanced seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index decreased 0.3 percent in July, marking the first month-to-month drop since April.

Celadon Group to assist Priority Transportation (Commercial Carrier Journal)
Celadon Group Inc. announced Tuesday, Aug. 26, that one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries has signed a receivables collection and equipment marshalling agreement with Priority Transportation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Priority America.

Big trucks banned from left lane in Missouri

2008-08-26T14:51:00.002-05:00

New Missouri law bans big trucks from left lane on interstates

"ST. LOUIS | There are some big changes for big trucks on Missouri interstates.

Starting Thursday, trucks weighing more than 48,000 pounds can no longer travel in the far left lane on highways in urban areas throughout the state.

This applies mostly to semi and heavy-freight trucks.

The rules will be enforced in Missouri’s urban areas.

Trucks will not be banned from the left lane in rural parts of the state.

| The Associated Press"

Hybrids serve New York City’s hungry (Fleet Owner)

2008-08-26T13:36:00.003-05:00

Hybrids serve New York City’s hungry (Fleet Owner)

"The latest hybrid technology is finding its way to the streets of New York, as City Harvest—which collects excess food and delivers it for free throughout the five boroughs—has purchased four DuraStar Hybrid trucks from Penske Truck Leasing. Penske is providing full-service support for the 18-ft vehicles from International Truck and Engine Corp."

Other trucking industry headlines from Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Western Star to use DD15 engine
Kenworth to add new axle tube
Bridgestone increases North America prices
New green technologies website for Peterbilt

Refrigerated Transporter
Weeklong tribute a collective 'thank you' to truck drivers
Penske helps City Harvest refrigerated fleet go green

Trailer/Body Builders
Utility Launches 4000D-X Composite
East, Meritor WABCO Introduce Trailer Communication System

Blogs

Trailers in transition (Trucks At Work)
"The combination of high fuel prices, higher equipment costs (due to costly emission reduction mandates) and slumping freight volume is taking a horrendous toll on truckers large and small. According to recent data, some 1,900 trucking operations shut down in the first six months of this year due to the caustic business environment we’re in. So what’s an equipment manufacturer to do? Well, if you make trailers for a living, it seems you boil your strategy down largely to one word: innovation."

Other stories

Delphi unsure when it will exit bankruptcy (The Detroit News)
Nearly three years after Delphi Corp. filed for bankruptcy, its prospects for emerging soon remain deeply uncertain as the Troy-based auto parts supplier faces growing pressure from investors and the government.

Consumer confidence up in August (Transport Topics)
Consumer confidence rose in August, as fuel prices fell as gasoline prices fell, the New York-based Conference Board said Tuesday.

Transportation Security Administration looks at the trucking industry (shippingdigest.com)
Officials at the Transportation Security Administration are turning an eye toward the trucking industry.

Michelin rolls out new wide-base tire

2008-08-25T15:24:00.004-05:00

Michelin rolls out new wide-base tire (Fleet Owner)

"The new X One XDN2 wide-base on-highway drive tire introduced by Michelin Americas Truck Tires at the Great American Truck Show last week aims to be an all-in-one solution for truckers – providing optimum fuel efficiency, long life, and improved traction."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, Aug. 25, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Mitsubishi Fuso opens new Michigan headquarters
Fontaine to use Dometic system on new trucks
New accessories package available for Cascadia
Utility unveils 4000 D-X composite model

Trailer/Body Builders
Old Dominion Relocates Service Center to Florence, SC
Poll: Lack of Skilled Workers Hurts the Most

Blogs

Lights, camera, trucking (Trucks At Work)
"W.O.W. That’s my reaction after seeing Navistar’s film 'Drive and Deliver' this past Friday: a movie that started out ostensibly as a grandiose 45-minute commercial for its new LoneStar Class 8 highway tractor but became oh so much more than that in the talented hands of director Brett Morgen and the three drivers he culled from a pool of over 700 candidates."

Other stories

Swift, Knight will enroll in L.A. Clean Truck Program (CCJ)
The Port of Los Angeles announced that it received letters of intent from Swift Transportation and Knight Transportation to plan to become drayage concessionaires under the Port of Los Angeles Clean Truck Program (CTP).

Ottawa considers cutting diesel tax (Financial Post)
Senior members of the Conservative government have discussed a possible $1-billion cut to a tax on diesel fuel, sources say, a move that would benefit cash-strapped manufacturers and municipalities.

PA to enhance safety on I-83 (truckinginfo.com)
Pennsylvania officials Friday announced new measures to improve traffic safety on the northbound Interstate 83 approach to the interchange with Route 581 in Lemoyne, Cumberland County.

Traffic fatalities reach lowest total in decade

2008-08-20T12:55:00.003-05:00

Traffic fatalities down 4%, DOT says (Fleet Owner)

"According to a report released by the Department of Transportation, the number of fatalities on U.S. roadways fell 3.9% in 2007, reaching the lowest total in more than a decade and the lowest fatality rate on record."

Other trucking industry headlines from Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Port of Tacoma trucker’s guide available
Experts talk about driver behavior and fuel economy
Great Dane revamps site
Con-way Freight names executive vp of operations

Outsourced Logistics
American Air Links Up With British Air and Iberia
Corpus Christi To Add Venezuela Service
Working Together to Speed Border Crossings
Exel To Support Chrysler Dealer Network
Why the Post Office Lost $1.13 Billion
Indiana University Adds Supply Chain Curriculum

Refrigerated Transporter
Subway serves top supply chain award to C.H. Robinson

Trailer/Body Builders
General Truck Body’s PEVs a Hit With U.S. Army
Freightliner, Meritor WABCO Offer Collision Safety System

Blogs

Semper Fi, Sarge
"How do you properly thank our military veterans for the tours of duty in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, and other nasty hotspots around the world? How can we even come close to offering a proper gesture for men and women who’ve lived through some of the worst trauma human beings can go through, day after day, month after endless month?"

Other stories

Goodyear to close 92 retail stores (Transport Topics)
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. plans to close 92 retail stores with about 500 full-time workers by the end of the year because of their lack of profitability, Bloomberg reported.

50,000 expected at this week's Great American Trucking Show (Land Line Magazine)
With the doors set to open at noon on Thursday, Aug. 21, the 2008 Great American Trucking Show in Dallas promises trucking professionals the latest in truck technology, truck gear and truck entertainment.

New Brunswick residents respond to carbon tax legislation (Times & Transcript)
He's not saying it will happen, he's not saying it won't happen. What Premier Shawn Graham is saying is that he's fully aware of the reaction some have given this summer to his government's proposed carbon tax.

Outsourced Logistics August issue online

2008-08-20T10:24:00.003-05:00

The August issue of Outsourced Logistics is now available online:

Why is this pig smiling?
The Continuing Challenge of Doing Business in China
Customers Helping Customers Helping Customers
When the Middleman Doesn't pay

Study examines rear-end crash causes

2008-08-18T13:55:00.003-05:00

New analysis highlights rear-end crash causes

"Rear-end crashes are one of the most common claims for most fleet operations, whether comprised of light, medium, or heavy-duty vehicles, yet the cure for this issue remains relatively simple: increase the following distances between vehicles on the highway."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, Aug. 18, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
PCA predicts cement consumption downtrend

Fleet Owner
Give Fleet Owner your feedback
FreightScan names vp of engineering
Dometic refrigerators available for Cascadia
LPI announces custom work platform
ConocoPhillips unveils newest synthetic engine oil

Outsourced Logistics
Construction Begins Near Port of Charleston
Green Retail Initiatives Drive Cost Savings
Logistics Service Provider Is Outstanding Woman Business Owner

Refrigerated Transporter
Mack, Volvo reorganize North American operations
Kenworth, Mack 'tops' in customer satisfaction

Trailer/Body Builders
Navistar Projects Industry Sales Drop
Spartan’s Furion Taking Off

Blogs

It’s safer out there (Trucks At Work)
"The highways are getting safer, with big rigs contributing to that safety improvement in a huge way. Let’s hope that trend line continues – and that trucking gets some props for making it happen."

Other stories

Auto suppliers struggle to stay afloat (Detroit Free Press)
The rest of this year and next will be a matter of survival for many cash-strapped auto suppliers.

Volt electric car off to Europe (Financial Times)
General Motors is planning to rebadge its Chevrolet Volt electric car as an Opel or Vauxhall to bring it to Europe as part of the US carmaker's plans to expand the model range of its highly anticipated new vehicle.

FMCSA declares Liberty Charter & Tours imminent hazard (CCJ)
Motor coach vehicles and drivers used by Liberty Charter & Tours that are or recently were affiliated with Angel Tours Inc., Iguala Busmex Inc. and Angel De La Torre have been declared an “imminent hazard” by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This declaration requires Liberty’s interstate and intrastate operations involved with Angel Tours Inc., Iguala Busmex Inc. and Angel De La Torre to cease immediately.

Trucking industry news archive

2008-08-13T07:44:00.004-05:00

Fleet Owner magazine recently added an archive for its Newsline daily newsletter. Readers can click on any date to view Fleet Owner's daily trucking news articles.

FleetOwner Newsline archive

Paid back: Aiding owner-operators on fuel

2008-08-12T15:08:00.003-05:00

Paid back: Aiding owner-operators on fuel

"There is enough for owner-operators to worry about without having to keep a constant eye on what diesel prices are averaging. A number of carriers have programs in place to alleviate that concern through surcharge programs that pay a significant portion of contracted carriers’ fuel bills."

Other trucking industry headlines from Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
ATA challenges Boston hazmat routing
Texas renewable fuels request denied
EPA testing new online audit program
Time to submit Russell award nominations
FMCSA updates safety education materials
CVSA supporting truck safety technology

Fleet Owner
Continental offers new steer tire
Eaton Truck Group promotes Standen
PacLease opens three lease locations in Michigan
Oil prices down fifteen cents

Outsourced Logistics
Law Suit Attacks LA/Long Beach Port Trucking Plans
Too Many Big Ships May Mean Excess Capacity
Politicians Climb Onto the DHL-UPS Deal
TNT Again Target of Rumors
California Container Fee Hits Snag
Global Distribution Strategies--Asia

Trailer/Body Builders
Supreme’s 2Q Net Sales Down 14.6%
JOST Opens New Factory in India
NTEA Sets Business and Market Planning Summit
Performance Panels a Bargain Amid Soaring Material Prices

Blogs

Fatigue … and death (Trucks At Work)
"Let me give you this scenario. A young truck driver (let’s say 25 or 26, been driving for three years now) falls asleep at the wheel of his 80,000-pound rig and causes an accident, leaving a 57 year-old man dead – a man with a wife and kids."

Other stories

Madison named FHA Administrator (CCJ)

New York looks to photograph license of every vehicle to enter Manhattan (New York Times)

Technology as a money saver (Transformationenablers.com)

Deadly Chesapeake Bay Bridge truck crash

2008-08-11T13:37:00.004-05:00

Fatal fall (Trucks At Work)
"To me, it’s one of my worst nightmares – a personal horror show suddenly writ large in bold, ghastly type. This weekend, a truck driver lost his life when his tractor-trailer plunged 40 feet off the eastern span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, following a collision with two other vehicles."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, Aug. 11, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
Tracking wash data part of university study DPC meeting features tank cleaning issues Hurricane season good time to make disaster plans NIOSH offers hazmat pocket guide Cleaning, security guides on FDA Web site OSHA posts information for confined space entry ASSE, ASTM offer combined safety publication

Fleet Owner
FleetOwner news available on mobile devices via Twitter Manufacturing steady in July Continental names director of replacement sales Jiffy Lube rolls out fleet card Kenworth LNG trucks operating at CA ports

Refrigerated Transporter
Using CESAR to boost carrier's fleet efficiency

Trailer/Body Builders
Supreme Industries Declares 2% Stock Dividend
SAF-HOLLAND Repositions its Aftermarket Business
PacLease Announces Three New Eastern Michigan Locations

Other stories

Turning exhaust heat into energy (The Detroit News)
Researchers are competing to meet a challenge from the U.S. Department of Energy: improve fuel economy 10 percent by converting wasted exhaust heat into energy that can help power the vehicle.

Texas trucking companies lukewarm to cross-border program (The Brownsville Herald)
A looming Congressional showdown over a controversial program that allows Mexican trucks free rein on U.S. highways threatens one local company's plans.

UPS looking to buy European delivery service TNT (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
UPS has held talks to buy Europe's TNT, the continent's second-biggest express delivery service, for $15 billion, according to press reports in Europe.

Get Fleet Owner news on Twitter

2008-08-08T14:36:00.004-05:00

Check out the new Fleet Owner page on Twitter. If you're unfamiliar with the service, it allows you to receive updates on your mobile device and much more. View a Twitter FAQ.

Liability for payment of freight charges

2008-08-06T15:42:00.006-05:00

When the Middleman Doesn't Pay (Outsourced Logistics)
"Liability for payment of freight charges has evolved into a complex legal problem that seems to be arising frequently when a shipper has arranged for a middleman (termed “3PL”, “broker”, “forwarder”, “logistics manager” or whatever) to arrange for the transportation of the shipper’s freight. After the carrier delivers, the carrier looks to the middleman (let’s call him a “broker” because that is the term used in the US Code) to pay it. However, what happens if for some reason the broker does not or cannot pay the carrier?"

Other trucking industry and logistics headlines from Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Drivers must do their part to save fuel, too
Sterling shows new sleeper, 13L diesel, LNG truck
SAF-Holland forms aftermarket business unit
National truck driving championship to be held
HD America members can now choose Karmak

Outsourced Logistics
Tropical Storm Forces Evacuations in China
Why is this pig smiling?
How the biosecurity program works
PierPass Working on US West Coast
Schneider National is Wal-Mart Intermodal Carrier of the Year
DHL Appoints Hickler to Global Customer Solutions
Legislative First: 3PL Defined
Cross-Border Controversy: Cancelled or Continued?
Rail Safety Could Spell Shipper Costs
Customs Brokers File Tariff Exemption
Averitt’s New Asian Service Promises Faster Transit Times
CH Robinson Acquires Transera
New FedEx Plane Boosts Capacity, Adds Regional Reach

Trailer/Body Builders
Index Suggests More Softening in Labor Market

Blogs

More tea leaves…
"A piece by Larry Rohter in the edition for August 3rd, “Shipping Costs Start to Crimp Globalization,“ explains how the massive spike in fuel costs is already leading some global manufacturers to rethink their supply chains including where they manufacture their goods in the first place."

Toy Truckin’
"Now, a ton of interesting things are coming out of the 6th annual PeopleNet Users Conference being held down here in Naples, FL – and you’ll be reading about them in this space very soon, everything from the economic outlook for trucking, different tactics for improving fuel efficiency, plus why leveraging technology will be a much more vital strategy for fleets in order to save money and be more profitable in the future. We’ll get to all of that – but first you’ve got to see the 14.5-inch scale model remote control truck Paul Agustin built."

Other stories

Queens councilman looks to seize law-breaking trucks (Queens Ledger)
"Councilman Tony Avella is promoting a plan that would allow the city to seize the actual vehicles of truck drivers who violate truck route rules three times within an 18-month period."

White House expedites Columbia River Crossing (Transport Topics)
"The Columbia River Crossing between Portland, Ore., and Vancouver, Wash., has received national priority status from the White House to expedite the project, the U.S. Department of Transportation said late Tuesday."

Atlantic Province Trucking Association opposes proposed carbon tax (New Brunswick Business Journal)
"The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association made it quite clear yesterday that it is against federal Liberal leader Stephane Dion's proposed carbon tax."

Ice Road truckers in Bulk Transporter

2008-08-05T08:16:00.004-05:00

The July issue of Bulk Transporter is now available online, including two stories about the popular History Channel series Ice Road Truckers:

ARS braves Canadian Arctic hauling diesel to mines

Midseason Mayhem: Equipped for any emergency

All July 2008 articles

Report on road conditions details progress

2008-07-31T12:55:00.004-05:00

Report on road conditions details progress (Fleet Owner)

"According to the Reason Foundation’s 17th Annual Report on the Performance of State Highway Systems, six of seven key performance indicators that measure total highway performance improved from 2005 to 2006 and that was thanks to 2005 federal highway legislation that provided new dollars for roads, bridges and transit systems."

Other trucking industry headlines from Thursday, July 31, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
Windsor calls for comprehensive energy plan
Peters discusses new Administration plan
OOIDA takes issue with Bush highway plan
Maps of fatal accident sites available online
Mack Trucks adds SCR Q&A on Web site
Truck Tonnage increases in June
FMCSA adds 4 HOS documents to interim rule

Fleet Owner
Bendix shows off discs
FleetCards USA website launches
Latest version of TMT Fleet Maintenance
Fuel-saving webcast boasts experts Osterberg and Booth

Outsourced Logistics
More Air Mergers—Now British Air and Iberia are Talking
TNT June Express Volume Down
Fed Transport Plan Calls for Tolls, Private Funding
Con-way Inc. Shows Quarterly Growth
Rails Ask Shippers to Share Risk
Rail Carloads Up

Refrigerated Transporter
Frozen Food Express makes money in 2Q

Trailer/Body Builders
Cummins Reports Record Quarterly Financial Results
Eaton Acquires Engine Valves Business of Kirloskar Oil Engines
Volvo, Mack Trucks Headed For Ports

Blogs

Working hard (Trucks At Work)
"I interviewed Jim Boyd yesterday for a story you’ll see in this space pretty soon here. But his quote above really struck me as it summed up (to my mind, anyway) how important it truly is to make sure heavy-duty truck technicians – like drivers – understand how important their job is within the trucking world of today. That’s the sort of the reasoning behind the slideshow below – to shine the light on a job that gets overlooked, if not just completely taken for granted, in the daily hustle and bustle of the freight word. Enjoy!"

Other stories

Trucking company gives $1 million for bike safety education (The Oregonian)
The Ireland Trucking Co. has agreed to donate more than $1 million to promote bicycle safety. The money will go into the Jane Higdon Memorial Fund, named after a Eugene woman killed when her bicycle slipped under an Ireland logging truck in May 2006.

Proposed bill would ban Mexican trucks (Transport Topics)
Mexican trucks would be barred from U.S. highways, and the Department of Transportation prohibited from enacting future cross-border programs for Mexican truckers under a measure introduced in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Transportation infrastructure: What the future holds

2008-07-30T13:56:00.006-05:00

What the future holds for infrastructure

"Yesterday’s announcement by U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters that the Bush Administration would reform the nation’s transportation programs included promises to address congestion, reward innovation and consolidate federal programs. However, Peters also indicated the government will look to “take advantage of the over $400 billion available worldwide for infrastructure investments from the private sector,” a highly contested and controversial issue throughout the transportation industry. She also said that the administration hopes to remove restrictions on congestion pricing too. "

Other trucking industry headlines for Wednesday, July 30, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
ATA files lawsuit against new port restrictions

Fleet Owner
ATA tonnage index up 1.3%
Karmak releases software interface for International dealers
Utility Trailer promotes Harris
Mack answering questions about SCR

Refrigerated Transporter
New national plan unveiled for transportation's future
Mack Trucks' McKenna talks SCR via the web

Trailer/Body Builders
American LaFrance Exits Bankruptcy
ATA Truck Tonnage Index Jumps 1.3% in June
JerrDan Appoints Two New Distributors

Blogs

Reliving the nightmare (Trucks At Work)
"One can only imagine the instant and overwhelming horror when the I-35W highway bridge crossing the Mississippi River north of Minneapolis began to give way back on Aug. 1 last year."

Read the tea leaves (Reading Between the Lines)
While business leaders and investors may count on an army of economists or other financial tea-leaf readers to help them gauge the health of our nation’s economy, I bank on the American trucking industry.

Other stories

ArvinMeritor beats expectations for the quarter (The Detroit News)
ArvinMeritor Inc., the U.S. supplier that's spinning off its auto-parts unit, gained the most in 30 months in New York trading after reporting Tuesday a third-quarter profit that beat analysts' estimates.

Australia trucking strike ends (The Age)
A trucking group protesting against demerit points and registration costs has called off its national stoppage.

Cummins profits rise 16% (Transport Topics)
Engine manufacturer Cummins Inc., said that its second-quarter profits rose to a record as overseas demand bolstered a recovering North American truck-engine market.

Visit FleetOwner on YouTube

2008-07-30T09:02:00.004-05:00

Fleet Owner magazine has a variety of trucking industry slideshows and other commercial-trucking related videos on its YouTube page.

Senior editor Sean Kilcarr also provides several slideshows from various trucking industry events he has covered recently.

Visit

http://www.youtube.com/pentontrans to see more.

Carriers try to remain upbeat despite negative reports

2008-07-28T15:03:00.003-05:00

Carriers try to remain upbeat despite negative reports

"Second-quarter financial reports have shown mostly negative returns for trucking companies due to challenging conditions in the industry. To counteract heavy losses, carriers promise to increase efficiency in the months ahead to improve bottom line performance."

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, July 28, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
UNEV purchases Utah terminal facility
Gardner Denver Inc to acquire CompAir
Graying workforce isn't likely to change
Tank Container safe handling posted on Web site
SBA revises business size standard
DOT funds agency for driver training
PHMSA wants comments on railcar standards
Hazwaste trucker's wife wins ATA design contest

Fleet Owner
GE Transportation names president & CEO
Spal introduces electric cooling fan
Con-way receives high environmental score
FleetOwner honored with Azbees

Refrigerated Transporter
Hormel breaks ground on production facility
Cummins ends joint diesel engine venture

Blogs
Rail on a roll (Trucks At Work)
"Keeping an eye on the competition is always a smart thing to do in any business, and for truckers, that eye should be trained not just on fellow big rig operators but freight locomotives as well."

Other stories

GM, CAW reach settlement on Oshawa plant closing (The Detroit News)
A Canadian Auto Workers official says the union and General Motors Corp. have reached a settlement in the bitter dispute over the pending closure of the company's truck plant in Oshawa, Ontario.

Truckers divided on emissions plans (New American Media)
Every day, hulking 18-wheelers invade California’s highways and freeways, spewing out clouds of dark diesel exhaust that is blamed for keeping thousands of the state’s residents gasping for air.

Australian truck strike begins (ABC News Australia)
Truck drivers are meeting in Sydney's west as part of a national shutdown of some trucking services.

Central Florida trucking job fair Aug. 2

2008-07-24T15:26:00.004-05:00

Trucking jobs, employment info:

"CareersInGear along with the Orlando Employment Guide have created an event just for drivers, that can jump start your career or put life back into your battery. Join us on Saturday, August 2nd from 10am-2pm at NBI in Winter Haven, FL to meet with Central Florida’s Transportation leaders as they look to usher in a new wave of drivers, dispatchers, warehouse workers, yard dogs, dock loaders, security personnel and more for their fleets, company trucks, OTR loads, refrigerated trailers, flat-bed, tanker, warehouses, offices and Owner / Operator trips. If you are an Owner Operator (O/O) bring in your truck for a best in show competition where you can win the coveted Careers in Gear trophy along with other great prizes from our sponsors."

For more information, visit the Orlando EmploymentGuide.com Web site or CareersInGear.com.

Fleet Owner: Trucking stabilizing?

2008-07-24T14:00:00.004-05:00

Trucking may be stabilizing (Fleet Owner)

"Fuel costs are still high and freight volumes remain sluggish, yet many carriers report that the market for their services is stabilizing – both in terms of capacity and, more importantly, rates.

'Targeted growth initiatives, implemented late last year at our LTL unit, continued to produce market share gains,” noted Douglas Stotlar, president & CEO of Con-way Inc., in the company’s second quarter earnings statement. “We also began to see indications of a more stable pricing environment in the quarter.'"

Other trucking industry headlines for Thursday, July 24, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Postal Service looks for greener fleet
3,000 rally at Port of Oakland for cleaner trucks
Interactive Capacity Gateway launches new website
Hunter Engineering brake tester meets FMCSA regulations

Refrigerated Transporter
Minyard to sell 37 stores,Carnival brand to group
Calculator shows savings offered by plastic pallets

Blogs

Electric déjà vu (Trucks At Work)

"When I heard about the new deal between the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), General Motors and 34 big utility companies across the country to create a “refueling network” for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), I couldn’t help but shake my head. Back in the early 1990s, I watch a very similar strategy get launched with a lot of fanfare and hoopla, only to die a slow and largely quiet death, with little care from an American public now so desperate to find an alternative to petroleum-powered cars and trucks."

Other stories

Indiana trucking company files for bankruptcy (Land Line Magazine)
Say what you will about Hoosier Tradewinds, but the trucking company didn’t leave home without its plastic.

House bill passes to restore $8 billion to the Highway Trust Fund (CCJ)

A bill to help prevent a shortfall in transportation funding won overwhelming approval Wednesday, July 23, in the House of Representatives. The final vote total was 387-37.

Layoffs continue at Wisconsin trailer manufacturers (The Capital Times)

Stoughton Trailers, LLC, of Stoughton, notified the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development that the semi-trailer manufacturer would be closing its Brodhead facility and laying off the approximately 184 employees at the facility, 302 23rd St.

Commercial drivers faking documents

2008-07-23T12:29:00.002-05:00

GAO report finds commercial drivers faking documents

"According to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report released this week, more than half a million commercial vehicle drivers are currently receiving full disability benefits. While GAO admits that some of these drivers should be able to safely operate their vehicles, the report indicates that many of these drivers did not receive a full medical evaluation, with a number of them providing fraudulent medical documents and forged signatures."

Other trucking industry headlines for Wednesday, July 23, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
NEFI counting days to SPCC deadline
PHMSA schedules hazmat workshop
Statistics indicate no fuel price relief

Fleet Owner
Logistics+ using CargoWise’s ediEnterprise
Clean Burn Energy Star-certified

Trailer/Body Builders
Navistar Offers New APU
Index Shows Manufacturers Less Optimistic

Blogs
Slogging through (Trucks At Work)
"Things are tough, no doubt about it. ... Freight companies, though, seem to be muddling through all of this. It’s not pretty, however: tons of truckers have closed up shop (almost 1,000 since the start of 2008, including big names like Alvan Motor Freight and Jevic Transportation). Yet those that remain seem to be making the best of it, digging in until better days return."

Other stories

Oakland, LA mayors supporting "the right of truck workers to be employees." (ABC7News.com)
Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa spoke briefly at a labor rally today aimed at pressuring the Port of Oakland to require that trucking companies hire drivers as employees instead of just using them as independent contractors.

Former truck plants to produce small cars, source says (AP)
Ford Motor Co. plans to revamp some U.S. plants and bring six small vehicles to the U.S. market from overseas to meet customers' growing demand for more fuel-efficient options, a person briefed on the company's plans said Tuesday.

Volvo AB orders fall as customers hold off on buying new trucks (Bloomberg)
Volvo AB, the world's second-largest truckmaker, said orders slumped 28 percent in the second quarter as customers held off increasing their fleets amid higher fuel prices and slowing economies.

Fuel prices, cost cutting leading to more counterfeit parts for fleets

2008-07-22T13:07:00.007-05:00

Counterfeiting concerns steadily rising

"As fuel prices and commodities prices have gone through the roof in the past year, fleets are looking to cut costs in any way possible. Knowing that, counterfeiters have stepped up efforts to get potentially unsafe materials into the marketplace, as customers often can’t tell the difference."

Other trucking industry headlines for Tuesday, July 22, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Logistics experts launch new venture
Double Coin tire prices to rise
Diesel prices down four cents

Blogs

Medical qualifications (Trucks At Work)

"By now, I’m sure, you’ve heard about the big Associated Press story, entitled “Medically unfit drivers still on the road,” published yesterday in a variety of places, such as on CNN’s news website and a host of newspapers like the Kansas City Star, Connecticut Post, and many others."

Other stories

Retreads more environmentally friendly than new tires, study says (truckinginfo.com)
An independent analysis comparing the relative carbon footprints of new tires and retreaded tires has concluded that the process required to manufacture and distribute a retreaded tire produces significantly less carbon emissions than that required to produce a new tire.

Former GM CEO speaks on the future of electric vehicles (Wall Street Journal)

One of the Big Ideas that's gotten a boost from the recent oil price shock is the notion that the energy for transportation should come from the electric grid, not an oil well in the Middle East.

Coalition of labor and environmental groups push for emissions reduction at Port of Oakland (Oakland Tribune)

Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa will join a coalition of labor, environmental and community leaders today to push for policies at the Port of Oakland to reduce diesel emissions and boost living conditions for thousands of independent truckers who move goods to and from the West Oakland facility.

Senate report slams FMCSA

2008-07-18T12:07:00.005-05:00

Senate report slams FMCSA

"The Senate Appropriations Committee’s Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill for 2009 contains a lengthy report that severely criticizes the performance of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)."

Other trucking industry headlines from Friday, July 18, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
TSA announces hazmat security recommendations
Dupre takes home LA safety award
Global economies boost commodity growth
SmartWay program selects new partners
NACD files comments on hazmat fee increases
EPA withdraws storage tank amendment
More TWIC enrollments underway

Fleet Owner
ZF touts hybrid expertise
Tenneco promotes three
Cummins Filtration to use environmentally friendly glycerin
West Coast workers slow down without new contract, PMA says

Trailer/Body Builders
Thermo King Launches New Line of Trailer Units
NFI, Raven Enter Into JV

FedEx Rumored In TNT Buy

2008-07-16T11:09:00.003-05:00

FedEx Rumored In TNT Buy (Outsourced Logistics)

"'No comment' is the rule, but that's no denial that FedEx may be in the market to acquire global express carrier TNT. Here's why the rumor seems likely to be true.

TNT has been conducting an aggressive stock buyback program. At the same time, it was streamlining the organization into a lean, mail and express company with strong road networks supporting it in developing markets. In a sense, it looks very much like the core FedEx Express operation."

Other trucking industry, logistics headlines for Wednesday, July 16, 2008:

Outsourced Logistics
Crane Forms Logistics Company
Ten Steps for Fuel Savings
Getting an 80,000 Pound Cargo Lift with a Blimp
Air Freight Looks Bad and Getting Worse
ExpressRail Successful In First Year

Fleet Owner
ATA pushing for offshore drilling
Constructions costs skyrocket
Old Dominion warehouse offering

Slowing down for fuel conservation -- Part II

2008-07-15T07:40:00.003-05:00

From Trucks At Work:

Changing landscape of driving

"A lot is changing out on the highways today – some good and some bad. We all know rising fuel prices are rapidly slashing the amount of miles four-wheelers log every day, with commuters scurrying for mass transit and vacationers becoming “staycationers.” Ways to restore our woefully maintained roadway infrastructure are also being hotly debated, from raising fuel taxes sales taxes and adding more tolls to the outright leasing of our roads to private companies – some note even based in the U.S.

But there are other significant changes we must start addressing, too. One theme I’ve been harping on is a return to a national 55 mph speed limit for cars, light trucks, and commercial trucks – both to reduce the nation’s consumption of fuel and vehicle crashes."

Finding affordable fuel supply

2008-07-14T12:06:00.004-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

ATA campaigns gov’t for more oversight

American Trucking Assns. (ATA) senior vp Tim Lynch testified last week in front of the House Committee on Agriculture and asked the Federal government to implement a comprehensive plan to help ensure an affordable fuel supply for the nation’s 3.5 million truck drivers as well as American consumers.

“The fuel crisis we face today is severe,” Lynch said. “There is no one single solution to high oil prices. We need to conserve fuel and increase oil production to emerge from this crisis. But neither of these in itself is a total solution. Congress must embrace a multifaceted approach to solving this problem.”

Other trucking industry headlines for Monday, July 14, 2008:

Fleet Owner
YRC promotes two

Refrigerated Transporter
CARB plans workshops to discuss emissions rule

Trailer/Body Builders
American LaFrance Announces Operational Changes
ATA Calls For Comprehensive Plan to Ensure Affordable Oil
NTEA Recognizes 10 MVP companies

Slowing down to conserve fuel

2008-07-14T11:26:00.002-05:00

From the Wall Street Journal:

Relearning How to Drive 55

"Even with gas prices cresting above $4 a gallon, large SUVs, pickup trucks and even Toyota Priuses barrel down freeways here in suburban Detroit at more than 75 miles per hour -- well beyond the 55 mph that was the national speed limit during the '70s and '80s.

If the U.S. Energy Department's calculations are right, all these lead foots could save the equivalent of 29 cents to 94 cents a gallon if they slowed down just to 60 mph -- and reduce the fuel they burn by about 7% to 23%. But most of my neighbors and I still choose to hit the gas rather than add 10 or 15 minutes to our commute times."

Ferrellgas wins civil suit against former employee

2008-07-14T10:28:00.002-05:00

From The Kansas City Star:

"A Platte County judge has ruled that the founder of a student-mentorship program is liable for more than $3.2 million that his former employer accused him of embezzling.

In an order filed last week, Associate Circuit Judge Daniel Czamanske ruled in favor of Ferrellgas Inc., an Overland Park-based propane gas company, and against Scott Beeson, a Platte County resident.

The company accused Beeson of creating fake invoices and pocketing at least $3.2 million."

More ...

Battle for bigger trucks

2008-07-14T10:17:00.006-05:00

A must-read and a very interesting Trucks At Work post on the LCV debate:

Battle for bigger trucks

"'Bigger trucks are more dangerous trucks. Lifting truck weight and size limits would turn big rigs into time bombs.' –James P. Hoffa, general president, International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

"You’ve got to give Jimmy Hoffa and the Teamsters credit: they know how to fire off good sound bites. The above quotation comes from the latest Teamster broadside aimed at heading off an effort to review federal truck size and weight limit laws. Right now, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is proposing to launch a pilot program that would allow heavier and longer combination vehicles (LCVs) to operate on U.S. highways in “border states,” presumably those along the U.S.-Mexican border.

"While I haven’t turned up anything official about such an FMCSA study, there’s no doubt that the truck size and weight issue is again coming to a boil as the trucking industry not only searches for ways to boost productivity without adding more expensive equipment to our already-clogged roads, but to improve its environmental footprint as well."

Read entire article ...

Do lower oil prices mean lower diesel prices?

2008-07-10T14:19:00.004-05:00

Do lower oil prices mean lower diesel prices?

Oil prices have started--albeit it slowly—to drop this week, falling from a record high of $145 per barrel on July 3 to closing at $135.64 a barrel yesterday. But will this lead to any savings at the pump?

Other trucking industry headlines for Thursday, July 10, 2008:

Fleet Owner
Electric utility fleet managers hold annual conference
ATA testifies for law changes
Prophesy releases Dispatch with 2008 Peachtree interface
Des Moines Truck Brokers to use Transcore
Alcoa releases wheel for Sprinter 3500

Is biofuel the answer?

2008-07-09T12:59:00.004-05:00

Featured article:

Is biofuel the answer? (Fleet Owner)

A backlash is brewing against the widening use of biofuels worldwide – targeting ethanol, made mostly from corn, and biodiesel, created largely with soybeans – as concerns about their impact on the global food supply and the environment continue to grow. Still, despite potential pitfalls, experts believe biofuels are going to remain an important alternative fuel for transportation needs in the future.

Other trucking industry headlines for Wednesday, July 9, 2008:

Bulk Transporter
Information on repairing flood damaged vehicles
Land transport trade grows for NAFTA partners

Fleet Owner
Biofuel backlash
Michelin available at 32 new locations
Navistar to raise prices on International trucks
FTR Associates announces details of annual conference
ASA releases new side vision camera

Fuel Economy Resources

2008-07-08T07:46:00.003-05:00

Look below for a variety of fuel economy news from around the Web.

Searchme

Maximize stack view

Trucking industry headlines 06.26

2008-06-26T15:33:00.002-05:00

Flooding eases, but not road problems

"While the massive flooding that has paralyzed parts of the Midwest for the better part of four weeks is finally subsiding, its effect on the trucking industry remains. Continued road closures are the primary concern in many states with Interstate 34 between Iowa and Illinois among the key roads still shut down. Low-lying areas around a bridge remain flooded, preventing travel over the main artery in the southwest corner of Iowa. Dena Gray-Fisher, director of media and marketing services for the Iowa Dept. of Transportation, did not have a specific timetable for the opening of the Interstate at this point, but said it likely will be after July 4th."

Bulk Transporter
ASTM committee OKs biodiesel specs
Enron Loophole close no fuel magic fix
Webinar to discuss onboard system benefits
FRP tank trailers call for specific wash process
Safety essential element for tank entry
Small business status could change
Hispanic work-related deaths outnumber other workers
Natural gas prices forecast to rise

Fleet Owner
Fuel-saving mud flaps drawing attention
Plumbing with pride
Mack embarks on U.S. tour
New Firestone on/off-highway tire
ATA urges gov’t to increase domestic oil supplies

Trailer/Body Builders
KIC, R.A.M. Join To Manufacture Wheel-end Products
Oshkosh Announces Downward Revisions For 3Q
Core Molding Technologies Extends Agreement With Navistar

Trucking industry headlines 0625

2008-06-25T13:49:00.002-05:00

Fleet Owner headlines
Safety: The critical first hour

"According to research from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), the most safety-critical events for truck drivers occur in the first day following an hour-of-service restart, that tracks with previous data that showed the most accidents occur in the first hour the driver is on the road."

JHT Holdings files reorganization plan
Sensor system from Mobile Awareness
Toughbook fits in a handheld
GE updates online remarketing
LoneStar gets SmartWay nod

Trucking industry headlines 06.23

2008-06-23T12:58:00.002-05:00

Bulk Transporter
TWIC enrollment begins in more ports
ATA expresses concern over cap-and-trade legislation

Fleet Owner
Straying from the Interstate
Xata integrates POD software with Xatanet
FMCSA, ATRI to hold safety webinar
NPTC plans safety conference
ATA warns against cap-and-trade

Trailer/Body Builders
More Truck Cuts for Ford
PennDOT Orders Hybrid Buses From Azure Dynamics
NTEA Attends White House briefing
FMCSA To Host Webinar On Onboard Safety Systems

Trucking slideshow from Trucks At Work

2008-06-17T08:47:00.005-05:00

Check out the latest trucking slideshow by Fleet Owner's Sean Kilcarr, who also writes a trucking industry blog called Trucks At Work.

View other Fleet Owner slideshows, videos and podcasts.

Trucking industry headlines 06.16

2008-06-16T13:42:00.002-05:00

Bulk Transporter
Growing China trade impacts US traffic
Research to begin on sludge-into-biodiesel

Fleet Owner
Thermo King promotes Hartman
Daimler fuel-efficiency podcast
Horizon begins green initiative

Refrigerated Transporter
Publix plans to acquire 49 Albertson’s stores
Maines adds restaurants to Burger King account

Trailer/Body Builders
Caterpillar to Leave U.S. HD Engine Market, Team With Navistar
Daimler Trucks North America Expands Engine Offerings

Caterpillar, Navistar announce partnership

2008-06-12T11:46:00.004-05:00

From Fleet Owner:
Caterpillar, Navistar to team up
Caterpillar Inc. and Navistar International Corp. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cooperate on a number of engine platforms and pursue global on-highway truck business opportunities, the companies announced this morning.

Through the strategic alliance, Caterpillar said it plans on introducing a North American Cat branded heavy-duty truck in 2010 designed for severe service applications, such as road construction, large infrastructure projects and oil and petroleum development.

View the article ...

From Trucks At Work:
A very big deal
Hoo boy. Here we go. By the end of today, we’ll have news stories galore all over the place detailing the just announced “memorandum of understanding” Caterpillar Inc. and Navistar International Corp. to form a strategic partnership aimed at garnering more share of the global on-highway truck business, while cooperating on a variety of engine platforms.

They also intend to work together to develop, manufacture and distribute commercial trucks in select regions outside of North America – which includes a full line of medium and heavy-duty trucks in both conventional and cab over designs. Will we see those trucks come into the North American market someday in the future? If I was a betting man, I’d wager a few bucks that they will.

View the article ...

Trucking industry headlines 06.10

2008-06-10T09:04:00.000-05:00

Bulk Transporter
Electrical safety program essential for terminals

Fleet Owner
CARB proposes extensive retrofit regulation
Blue Sky Network releases new tracking system
DriverTech introduces in-cab scanning
Thermo King’s TriPac CARB certified
Sterling launches leasing option website
AFVi presents well-to-wheels webinar
Diesel prices down for second week in a row

Trailer/Body Builders
Benson to Idle Cadiz Trailer Manufacturing Plant
Trucks Boost May UK Registrations
Intermodal Monthly Update Report Shows "A Tale of Two Markets"
Bendix, MEMA Leaders Push Safety Measures

Truck strike in Spain

2008-06-09T11:54:00.004-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

Spain trucker strike threatens to spread to France and Portugal

"American carriers terrified of a widespread truckers’ strike need only look to Europe to see what the worst-case scenario could be. Tens of thousands of truckers in Spain have engaged in widespread protests against fuel prices, occasionally resorting to violence and sabotage, according to news reports."

View the article ...

Other headlines from Monday, June 9:

Fontaine adds to staff
Texas adding Oliver facility
Bosch reveals tech center
Preco taps Sky Detective
Webasto bunk cooler CARB-approved
Allison touts fuel efficiency testing
Bosch Opens Tech Center East
International Specialized Trailers Picks Haldex

Ice Road Truckers season premiere

2008-06-08T21:06:00.002-05:00

The History Channel's excellent documentary series "Ice Road Truckers" debuted tonight, and if you've never seen it, I highly suggest checking it out. These are by far some of the craziest people I've ever seen behind a wheel.

In case you missed it, here's some more information on the series, which is based on a book called Denison's Ice Road by Edith Iglauer:

History Channel site for Ice Road Truckers
Ice Road Truckers on Wikipedia

Gladstone, MO fleet going green with hybrids

2008-06-06T15:29:00.001-05:00

From kccommunitynews.com:

"Gladstone’s vehicle fleet is getting a green makeover.

Gladstone will use a portion of its expected $15 million-plus fiscal year 2009 budget to purchase a new fleet of 25 city vehicles. The vehicles will replace the city’s aging fleet with a group of fuel-efficient hybrids intended to reduce the city’s carbon footprint.

The switch to a greener fleet not only accomplishes a high-profile goal of the City Council to reduce the city’s environmental impact, but will also save the city in future maintenance costs while simultaneously cutting down on rising fuel costs."

More ...

Find trucking industry jobs at TruckFleet Jobs

2008-06-06T15:22:00.003-05:00

A new jobs site relating specifically to the trucking industry, TruckFleet Jobs, recently launched.

It includes all kinds of trucking industry jobs and employment opportunities, including owner/operator, fleet management, trailer sales, fleet sales, technician positions and more.

View TruckFleet Jobs.com website.

Trucking industry headlines 06.06

2008-06-06T15:14:00.004-05:00

Bulk Transporter
Coalition promoting highway solutions
2007 Gross Revenue Report now online

Fleet Owner
Feds seek to deter oil speculators
PLM opens new Dallas drive-through
IPD expands online service
Transplace meets with customers
Trailermaker chooses Haldex
Phillips receives NAPA supplier award
LeasePlan hits 10-million images
A. Duie Pyle holds chemical symposium

Outsourced Logistics
Most Respected Logistics Firms Named
So Long Kinko’s, Hello FedEx Office
China Southern joins Air France-KLM in a Cargo Joint Venture
Norfolk Southern Joins Short Lines for Short Hauls
Cardinal Health Moves Fleet to Penske Logistics
Connell Bros. Expands In Global Logistics Management

Magellan Pipeline Company fire

2008-06-03T20:50:00.008-05:00

A large fire at the Magellan LP plant in Kansas City, Kan., caught fire this evening after a lightning strike.

Local news report:

"KANSAS CITY, Kan. – A tank at a Magellan plant started on fire Tuesday evening in the Fairfax district.

It happened at around 7:30 p.m. at 401 E. Donovan.

An eyewitness said he saw lightning strike the tank and heard a loud boom.

KCK Assistant Fire Chief Craig Duke said the firefighters are keeping a safe distance from the fire in case the tank collapses.

Firefighters are making sure the fire does not spread.

Duke said there are 50,000 barrels of fuel in the tank. The tank is roughly half full.

There has been no report of injuries."

From the Associated Press:

Lightning blamed for petroleum plant fire in Kansas City, Kan

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) - Lightning from a line of strong thunderstorms is blamed for a large fire at a petroleum plant in downtown Kansas City, Kansas, tonight.

KCK Fire Department officials say the fire at a Magellan Petroleum factory started when lightning hit a large storage tank at the facility near downtown. No injuries are reported.

The tank contained 58,000 barrels of unleaded gasoline, and fire crews are trying to prevent the blaze from reaching a nearby tank with 15,000 barrels of gas.

KCK Fire Chief Thomas DeKeyser says the department plans to let the fire burn itself out.

A series of strong cells passed through the Kansas City area around 7 p.m., producing strong winds, heavy rain and hail.

Tornado sirens went off in Lees Summit, Missouri, and up to nickel-sized hail fell in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

More coverage:

Local TV news coverage -- KCK Fire Burns Large Fuel Tank
Fort Mill Times -- Lightning ignites tank at petroleum factory
Kansas City Star -- Lightning touches off fuel tank blaze
KCTV5 -- Lightning Sparks Fire At Oil Company
KSN.com -- Lightning ignites tank at petroleum factory

Free fuel-economy webcast

2008-06-03T15:53:00.001-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

The first in a series of free webcasts entitled “Survivors’ Guide to the Fuel Crisis” will be broadcast at 2 P.M. (EDT) on June 17 and focus on operational strategies that can help fleets offset current high diesel prices. The interactive, online series is being presented jointly by FleetOwner and the Truckload Carriers Assn. TMW Systems Inc. is sponsoring the first webcast, which is free to anyone who preregisters.

The June 17 webcast will feature practical, in-depth presentations by two leading experts on fleet operations -- industry consultant George L. Edwards and the former president of MacKinnon Transport, Ray J. Haight. Topics covered will include analyzing accounts and lanes for fuel efficiency and profitability, maximizing load and route efficiency, and using purchasing tools to minimize fuel costs. The focus will be on practical tips and strategies that can be used by fleets of all types and sizes.

Trucking industry headlines 06.03

2008-06-03T15:45:00.005-05:00

Following a week-long baby break, Truck Amok is back!

Here are today's trucking industry headlines:

Bulk Transporter
DOT border program to address delays
Response Guidebook on PHMSA Web site
NACD voices concern about railcar proposal

Fleet Owner
GM to close four truck plants
TCA, Fleet Owner offer fuel-economy webcasts
Heritage Propane raises cancer awareness, funds
Paccar donates T660 to help breast cancer screenings
Apex touts fuel card
Horton releases new fan drives
OPS joins EPA WasteWise program

Trailer/Body Builders
Freightliner Business Class M2e Hybrid Available for Commercial
AEV Named Top Ambulance Manufacturer

Trucking industry headlines 05.23

2008-05-23T11:43:00.000-05:00

ATA Truck Tonnage Index Falls 1.1% in April
Economy slowing transport mergers and acquisitions
Supra reefers meet Tier 4 standard
ATA tonnage index slips in April
Former DOT Under Secretary returns to law firm
RigMaster recovers from tornado
OEMs honor vets

Bulk Transporter in motion

2008-05-22T12:10:00.001-05:00

Create a Free Slideshow

Trucking industry headlines 05.21

2008-05-21T14:52:00.001-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

Truckload carriers looking for freight rebound
ALK names vp of sales for PC*Miler
Bosch Rexroth unveils regenerative braking system
Going to the dogs
Navteq updates Traffic Patterns N.A.

From Refrigerated Transporter:

Calavo Growers expands tropical-product footprint
Aura Systems acquires Emerald Leasing assets

From Trailer/Body Builders:

ArvinMeritor Opens South American Center to Support Light Vehicle Business
WABCO Wins New Business in Beijing Bus Aftermarket
AT&T Introduces 'Green Fleet' of More Than 100 Alternative-Fuel Vehicles

Jevic Transportation shutting down

2008-05-20T15:27:00.002-05:00

From Fleet Owner (May 19, 2008):

"Jevic Transportation Inc., citing high fuel and insurance costs, tightening credit markets and economic downturn, has decided to discontinue operations.

The company said that it will halt pickup service effective Monday, May 19, 2008, but will continue to operate to deliver all freight within its system prior to closing.

'We greatly appreciate the loyalty of our many Jevic customers,' said David H. Gorman, president & CEO of Jevic. 'It has been our pleasure to provide solutions to your transportation needs over these many years. We are committed to providing the prompt delivery of your shipments in our system and professional customer service for all your needs during this process.'

As of Friday, May 16th, Jevic is not accepting pickup requests and its and EDI pickup functions have been disabled, the company added. However, Jevic will continue to provide customer service and the company website will remain active and updated during this period. The website will be the primary point of contact for tracing and needed documentation, Gorman said."

Continue reading 'Jevic Transportation shutting down' ...

Trucking industry headlines 05.20

2008-05-20T15:21:00.002-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

Freight down--but what does that mean?
DAF integrates SAF-Holland parts
ATA to manage LTL group
Thermo King promotes two
Prophesy updates Dispatch
Bill would let states set emissions

From Refrigerated Transporter:

Jevic Transportation Inc. succumbs to hard times
USCS to construct refrigerated warehouse

From Trailer/Body Builders:

Volvo's Truck Deliveries Up 44% in April
Schneider National Rolls Out Western Regional Service

Trucking industry headlines 05.19

2008-05-19T15:38:00.001-05:00

From Fleet Owner:
Jevic Transportation shutting down
Continental raises prices in North America
Support grows for pass-through diesel
Shell releases Rotella T synthetic
IdleAire files for Chapter 11

From Refrigerated Transporter:
ATA agrees to manage distribution and LTL group
PFG shareholders vote to approve merger plan
LaSalle Brands expands distribution of ice cream

From Trailer/Body Builders:
Class 8 April Orders Revised Up 6%
SAF-HOLLAND Generates Record Earnings in 1Q
SAF-HOLLAND, DAF Trucks Join In Aftermarket Business
Old Dominion Relocates Service Center to San Antonio
Research Leader to Address Transportation Table May 30

Trucking industry headlines 05.16

2008-05-16T13:45:00.001-05:00

From Fleet Owner:

Natural gas gaining steam
Delco Remy breaks tradition with new alternator
Karmak improves parts-ordering software
LeasePlan USA expands client-relations group
Mitchell 1 supports state Technician Skills Competitions
NTEA issues annual report
Electrical reefer control

Trucking industry headlines 05.13

2008-05-13T11:10:00.000-05:00

Fleet Owner articles:
Oil prices: Some say up, some say down
Sterling rolls out natural-gas tractor
TCA hosting audio conference on driver training research
Yokohama promotes Oishi
YRC opens more border kiosks
On-board scale for refuse trucks

Trailer/Body Builders articles:
9% Sales Decline in 1Q for Supreme Industries
Commercial Vehicle Group Opens New R&D Center and Corporate Headquarters
Sterling Introduces Its First Natural Gas-Powered Vehicle

Bulk Transporter articles:
ATA celebrates Transportation Week
ATA launches initiatives to reduce truck emissions
Schneider to require drivers to slow down
Performance-based versus time-spent training
Canadian carriers urged to make comments for US safety study
ATA wants Congress to address fuel problems
Diesel rises almost 2 cents
PSC expands, upgrades LaPorte wash rack
PSC opens tank wash in Charleston SC
Port Wilmington Tank Wash opens new expansion
Environmental protection basic to tank cleaning
Florida study finds some wash procedures falling short
CIP systems require appropriate applications

Trucking industry headlines 05.12

2008-05-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

Broad impact of diesel spike (Fleet Owner)
Heavy axles get lube option (Fleet Owner)
Texas aims to enforce seatbelt laws (Fleet Owner)
ALK updates PC*Miler (Fleet Owner)
Carrier reefers have CARB covered (Fleet Owner)
Hayes Lemmerz to Close Facility in Gainesville, Georgia (Trailer/Body Builders)
Evans Network Expects 15-17% Growth in 2008 (Trailer/Body Builders)

Fleet Owner May issue content now available

2008-05-12T12:59:00.003-05:00

The May issue of Fleet Owner magazine is now available online, including a feature titled Rethinking Fuel Economy.

More ...

Trucks At Work: Cat Power!

2008-05-08T09:20:00.005-05:00

This is a great Trucks At Work post about cats and truckers, with a slew of great photos, too.

Bonus info: The collective noun for a group of cats can be referred to as a "clowder" of cats and/or a "nuisance" of cats. I prefer the latter.

From Trucks At Work:

"For years, I’d always thought dogs were a trucker’s best friend – a view borne out by the many different canines I’ve met over the years riding shotgun with drivers. Yet this year at the Mid America Trucking Show, I got an eye-opener of sorts as I stumbled upon quite a few trucks that were homes away from home for plenty of cats."

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Trucking industry headlines 05.05

2008-05-05T19:30:00.001-05:00

DOE denies appeal to release reserve heating oil (Bulk Transporter)
TWIC compliance date extended (Bulk Transporter)
FedEx, UPS see earnings fall (Fleet Owner)
Heil names operations director (Fleet Owner)
Continental names CVT exec. vp (Fleet Owner)
Peterbilt releases car carrier (Fleet Owner)
Tresca takes ready-mix fleet graphics honors (Fleet Owner)
StarTrak, Hegemon integrate systems (Fleet Owner)

Trucking industry headlines 05.01

2008-05-01T15:30:00.003-05:00

Featured article:

California assembly votes down public-private infrastructure bill (Fleet Owner)

"The California Assembly Business and Professions Committee voted down a measure (AB 2600) that would have allowed the state to enter into private-public partnerships for infrastructure development by a five to three vote on Tuesday. The proposal had been strongly endorsed by Governor (R) Arnold Schwarzenegger."

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Other trucking industry headlines from Thursday, May 1:

TRC testing says Bullet more fuel-efficient (Fleet Owner)
Fikes names CEO (Fleet Owner)
Great Dane to offer Haldex actuators (Fleet Owner)
GE trailer resale center opens in California (Fleet Owner)
FleetOwner announces new managing editor (Fleet Owner)
Oshkosh Reports Record 2Q EPS Up 42% (Trailer/Body Builders)
New Orders, Production, Employment and Inventories Contracting (Trailer/Body Builders)

Trucking industry headlines 04.30

2008-04-30T15:45:00.002-05:00

Diesel continues rising (Bulk Transporter)
New hazmat routing required for railroads (Bulk Transporter)
IMHA notes logistic changes in its industry (Bulk Transporter)
Two men indicted in CDL fraud (Bulk Transporter)
DHS begins TWIC enrollment in more ports (Bulk Transporter)
Vopak, First Reserve acquire BORCO (Bulk Transporter)
Testimony asks for oil reserves release (Bulk Transporter)
Truck tonnage falls in March (Bulk Transporter)
Dover acquires Neptune Chemical Pump (Bulk Transporter)
ATA partners with Army in driver program (Bulk Transporter)
Tonnage falls in March (Fleet Owner)
Ernst & Young’s Hanley to present at GAAS (Fleet Owner)
SkyBitz to be used on JB Hunt trailers (Fleet Owner)
Safety & regulatory partnership formed (Fleet Owner)
MACtac releases latest graphic adhesive (Fleet Owner)
FFEX remains focused, rolls with the punches (Refrigerated Transporter)
Fresh Del Monte harvests ‘solid financial results’ (Refrigeration Transporter)
Eaton Receives Grant For HLA Technology (Trailer/Body Builders)
Cummins' Sales, Earnings Surge On Strong Global Demand (Trailer/Body Builders)
WABCO Sets Another Quarterly Sales, Net Income Record (Trailer/Body Builders)

Bulk Transporter April 2008 issue

2008-04-30T12:36:00.004-05:00

The April issue of Bulk Transporter is now available online. Below are some of this week's stories. Click on the photo to see a complete list of April's content.

Cover story:

KAG launches massive ethanol logistics effort

"Federal mandates call for the United States to use nine billion gallons of renewable fuels in 2008. The mandated volume climbs to 36 billion gallons by 2022.

That's a lot of ethanol and biodiesel, and it offers prime transportation and distribution opportunities. Virtually all biofuels must be moved by truck and rail at this time, which means new business for many of the companies involved with these transport modes."

More ...

Other Bulk Transporter stories from the April 2008 issue:

International conference focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency
Six predictions
Study provides strategic observations on 2010 EPA compliance
Tank fleets play a leading role in biofuels logistics

Trucks At Work: A technician’s tale

2008-04-30T12:31:00.001-05:00

From Trucks At Work:

"Ryan DeLaRoi cut his teeth working on diesel engines under rather hazardous conditions: on deployment in Iraq. During his second tour in the war zone, DeLaRoi – a Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corp – repaired Humvees and other diesel-powered vehicles: sometimes in the face of sandstorms and far-deadlier bullets."

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Reading Between the Lines: Steer clear!

2008-04-30T12:28:00.002-05:00

From Reading Between the Lines:

"How many times have you passed a state trooper or other police officer dealing with a trucker or motorist stopped on the side of the road– and we are talking flashing lights, the whole works here– and you have not bothered to move one lane over, even if that lane was wide open? Well, shame on any of us who has not given that officer as much of a safety cushion as humanly possible."

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Refrigerated Transporter April 2008 issue

2008-04-30T07:57:00.003-05:00

The April issue of Refrigerated Transporter is now available online. Below are some of this week's stories. Click on the photo to see this week's table of contents. See the print edition for the 2008 Truck Driver Training Schools Directory.

Cover story:

Pride in the ride

"Michael J. Homiak, founder and owner of Homiak Transport, has a number of strongly held philosophies that have enabled him to expand his less-than-truckload temperature-controlled trucking operation into a successful business that continues to grow."

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Other feature stories from April's issue of Refrigerated Transporter:
Got drivers?
Keeping drivers
Transportation plan
Energy strategies

Trucking industry headlines 04.29

2008-04-29T14:46:00.003-05:00

Featured article:
Fuel price protests hit DC (Fleet Owner)

"Truck drivers, fed up with fuel prices shrinking their bottom lines, have united across the U.S. to protest, organizing a number of small and large demonstrations to draw attention to their cause."

More ...

Other trucking industry headlines from Tuesday, April 29:

FedEx hybrid fleet hits two-million mile milestone (Fleet Owner)
Direct Fuels launches biodiesel production (Fleet Owner)
Built-in stairway flatbeds (Fleet Owner)
Vigillo partners with law firm (Fleet Owner)
ArvinMeritor Reports Higher Profits for 2Q (Trailer/Body Builders)
FleetPride Purchases Keller Truck Parts, Inc. (Trailer/Body Builders)

Reading Between the Lines: Kerkorian likes Ford’s better idea

2008-04-29T12:53:00.003-05:00

From Reading Between the Lines:

"It was just last week that Ford Motor Co. surprised many by reporting strong first-quarter results. Ford’s long-term strategy of emphasizing global growth was credited in large part with that performance."

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Trucks At Work: Navigating the challenges

2008-04-29T12:50:00.001-05:00

From Trucks At Work:

"So despite the challenges now engulfing the trucking industry as a whole, private fleets and the association that represents them, aren’t standing still – their mapping new courses to help improve their business models."

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Trucking industry headlines 04.28

2008-04-28T14:20:00.003-05:00

Featured article:

Fuel dominates private fleet meeting (Fleet Owner)

"CINCINNATI | Everywhere you turn here at the 2008 National Private Truck Council conference, the conversation turns to the high price of diesel fuel."

More ...

Other trucking industry headlines from Monday, April 28:

Kenworth offering a/c services (Fleet Owner)
Backup camera from Rostra (Fleet Owner)
DRS releases new rugged mobile computers (Fleet Owner)
Hyundai Translead SmartWay-certified (Fleet Owner)
Wheels updates fleet management tool (Fleet Owner)
FPL Food to expand South Carolina plant (Refrigerated Transporter)
Fuel Strategies Workshop scheduled for June 19 (Refrigerated Transporter)
March Trailer Orders Lower than Expected (Trailer/Body Builders)
Kenworth of Mobile Opens State-of-the-Art Facility (Trailer/Body Builders)
FedEx Hybrid-Electric Fleet Surpasses 2-Million-Mile Mark (Trailer/Body Builders)

Elaborate scheme suspected in Ferrellgas embezzlement suit

2008-04-25T15:52:00.005-05:00

From kccommunitynews.com:

"A former Ferrellgas fleet manager accused of embezzling more than $3 million from the company apparently had help from outside sources.

In an amended court petition filed April 7, the company named employees from three other vendors who allegedly cooperated with Scott Beeson in creating false invoices for services they did not actually perform for Ferrellgas.

According to court documents, the results of an internal audit revealed Beeson 'instructed and directed the vendors and representatives of the vendors on how and when to submit invoices to Ferrellgas. He further instructed them on where to send or wire money received from Ferrellgas. The vendors complied with Beeson’s instructions.'

The audit revealed funds for the fraudulent services were re-routed from the company’s accounts payable department to Beeson’s personal bank account."

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Truck of the Day 04.25

2008-04-25T15:34:00.002-05:00