Freddy Lazo, a driver for Big Blue Box, exits his truck at a New Brighton, Minnesota terminal in April 2025. (Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer)
After leaving a restaurant job for a more lucrative career in trucking about two and a half years ago, Lazo now considers returning to serving tables due to the ongoing effects of President Trump’s trade policies.
“It’s really super slow,” Lazo remarked while observing the sparsely populated trucking yard of Big Blue Box in New Brighton.
Typically, downturns in this industry are short, but looming challenges are emerging. Since “Liberation Day” on April 2, when Trump imposed global tariffs, many retailers have halted orders for various products, including patio furniture and toys. Although reciprocal tariffs were paused, significant taxes on Chinese and other imports remain, creating uncertainty.
As an independent contractor, Lazo does not earn unless he drives, which excludes him from unemployment benefits during this downturn. While he has managed to pay off his truck and utilize savings, an extended slowdown might require him or his wife to find additional work to support their five children.
Ted Longbella, the Vice President of Big Blue Box, noted their goal is to handle about 120 containers daily, transporting a variety of goods. He closely monitors “blank sailings,” when shipping companies cancel trips, as it indicates future demand.
Currently, there are over 56,000 semi-truck drivers and 18,000 light truck drivers in Minnesota, signaling potential economic repercussions from the situation. Trucking firms face cancellations surpassing those during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant decline in cargo handled at major ports. Longbella is proactively seeking new business to retain employees and avoid competition.
