Author: Trucker Talk Radio

New Truck Driver Hours of Service Regulations Revised hours of service (HOS) regulations aimed at providing more flexibility for truck drivers will come into effect at 12 a.m. eastern time on September 29. This uniform timing means that drivers in different time zones, such as those on the West Coast, will need to adapt to the new rules starting at 9 p.m. on September 28. Key Changes to the HOS Rules Announced in May, the new regulations introduce four significant adjustments to current HOS rules: 1. Revised 30-Minute Break Requirement The previous rule mandating a 30-minute break after no more…

Health Initiatives for Truck Drivers Transportation carriers, industry groups, and truck stops are launching efforts to assist truck drivers in improving their health. Employers are organizing health seminars, creating on-site fitness facilities, hiring nutritionists and fitness trainers, and providing financial rewards to employees who quit smoking or manage their weight. Some drivers are taking proactive steps by cooking in their trucks, participating in walks or bike rides at truck stops, sharing their journeys on blogs such as truckingsolutionsgroup.org and safetythruwellness.com, and even publishing books. Introduction of New Programs Lindora Clinic, known for its weight-loss centers, launched the “Lean for Life…

Theft of Moonchild’s Equipment Earlier this week, a truck containing equipment and merchandise for the Grammy-nominated band Moonchild was stolen in Oakland while they were preparing for a performance in Berkeley. Details of the Incident The band reported that their U-Haul was parked outside the Best Western Plus Bayside Hotel on Embarcadero in Oakland when it was taken on April 29, just before their scheduled show in Berkeley. Recovery Efforts Amber Navran, a band member, mentioned, “We found a few air tags thrown into bushes, but it seems like they’re pros and they found all of our air tags and…

In June, a commitment was made to focus more on fitness enthusiasts and their lifestyles. Introducing July’s Fit Driver of the Month: Phasit Thanet. He has been a licensed CDL driver since 2024, and his driving experience includes roles in oilfields, operating heavy machinery, and currently serving as an over-the-road driver for Avala Express LLC based in Franksville, Wisconsin. Despite the challenges of life as a professional driver, Phasit remains dedicated to maintaining his fitness on the road. His passion for both fitness and trucking is evident in the photos and videos he shares. Maintaining a healthy weight and being…

Service Truck Bodies Market Analysis The Service Truck Bodies Market is currently experiencing significant changes due to various factors, including supply chain disruptions, fluctuating fuel prices, and geopolitical tensions stemming from the US-Iran conflict. These developments are altering procurement strategies for fleets across North America. Increased sensitivity to oil prices is driving operating costs upward for construction, utility, mining, and field service providers. Consequently, buyers are opting for lightweight aluminum service bodies, efficient upfitting systems, and robust modular truck platforms. Additionally, the growth of defense logistics and emergency infrastructure investments in the U.S. is accelerating the replacement cycles for vocational…

New Legislation in Indiana Aimed at CDL Reform In a focus on enhancing public safety, two Indiana Republicans have proposed legislation to reform the commercial driving licensing system and prevent illegal immigrants from obtaining commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). Introducing “Dalilah’s Law” Representative Erin Houchin, R-Ind., presented her version of “Dalilah’s Law” in the House on Wednesday. The law is named after 5-year-old Dalilah Coleman, who survived a devastating incident involving an 18-wheeler driven by an illegal immigrant who disregarded a stop sign. Supporting Legislation in the Senate This effort aligns with a Senate bill introduced by Senator Jim Banks, R-Ind.,…

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized Oleksandr Tkachuk as a TCA Highway Angel for his prompt action in providing CPR during a roadside medical emergency. Tkachuk, who hails from Edmonton, Alberta, is a driver for Trimac Transportation based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. On May 5, in Hardisty, Alberta, Tkachuk, an independent contractor with Trimac’s Hardisty branch, stopped to help a vehicle parked on the shoulder of the road. Tkachuk to the Rescue “I noticed a vehicle on the side of the road with two young people trying to assist a man who was lying down,” Tkachuk…

Knapheide Opens Retail Facility in Charleston Area MONCKS CORNER— On April 23, Knapheide Truck Equipment Company held an event to welcome new customers to its Charleston-area facility. The celebration included a catered lunch, promotional bags, and a setup similar to a convention, featuring suppliers and partner vendors. Attendees were also given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the technology and equipment used to prepare work trucks for various industries. Location and Services The Knapheide Truck Equipment Center, located at 2510 U.S. 52, has traditionally focused on supplying and installing equipment for commercial vehicles. They have worked closely with brands like Mercedes-Benz,…

The Struggles of the Trucking Industry in 2019 2019 was a challenging year for trucking companies, with the industry overall failing to turn a profit. This downturn was primarily due to excess capacity introduced to the market in 2017 and 2018, followed by a significant slowdown in freight demand in 2019. Contract and Spot Rate Pressures Declining spot rates and pressure from shippers to utilize cheaper carriers capped contract rates in 2019, leading to spot rates hovering near their lowest point. Additionally, carrier costs surged by double digits across most categories when compared to the previous freight recession in 2016,…

Some operators want permission to use bus lanes in heavy city traffic. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi Fuel Shortage Impact on Consumers Dave Boyce, the chief executive of the NZ Trucking Association, warns that the true burden of the current fuel shortage has yet to be felt by consumers. The trucking industry is actively exploring methods to lessen the repercussions for operators. Rising Fuel Costs Passed to Consumers During a discussion with RNZ’s Checkpoint, Boyce noted that many operators are no longer able to absorb the escalating fuel prices and are beginning to pass these costs onto their customers. “The…