Author: Trucker Talk Radio

Importance of API Integrations for Trucking Telematics API integrations play a vital role for companies in the trucking telematics sector. They facilitate smooth communication between different systems, enhance operational efficiency, enable precise tracking of fleet activities, and allow for integration with other specialized industry tools, ultimately improving fleet management capabilities. Example: Plaid’s Impact on Fintech An illustrative example is fintech provider Plaid, which has notably transformed the banking sector by offering seamless access to financial data and allowing for secure transactions through its API services. This has simplified the processes of verifying and safeguarding banking information while fostering the creation…

As the U.S. presidential election approaches, stakeholders in the trucking industry are preparing for possible regulatory shifts that could profoundly impact the sector, according to Dave Heller, senior vice-president of safety and government affairs at the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). At the Fleet Safety Council conference in Brampton, Ontario, Heller expressed concerns regarding the timeline for adopting battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), ongoing delays related to speed limiter regulations, and unresolved matters concerning safety fitness determinations and minimum liability insurance—all of which may be influenced by the election results. Impending Infrastructure Changes Heller noted that the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, enacted…

Last month, the Teamsters union reported that Yellow (NASDAQ: YELL), one of the largest trucking companies in the U.S., informed them that it would run out of cash by August. To prevent this crisis, Yellow’s executives told the Teamsters, representing about 22,000 Yellow workers, that operational modifications, which the union had previously sanctioned, must be implemented. In a video statement on June 12, O’Brien declared, “It is not left for the Teamsters to save this company; we have given enough. What happens next is out of our control.” Just twelve days later, he tweeted an image of a gravestone labeled…

A Walmart truck driver from Texas, who prefers to remain anonymous due to company policy, stated he has 15 years of work left and plans to spend that time driving for Walmart. He remarked, “Unless I win the lottery or marry someone wealthy, I don’t envision leaving.” This level of commitment to one employer is rare in the trucking industry, which is known for its high turnover rates. Walmart attracts such loyalty because it offers competitive pay; drivers can earn up to $110,000 in their first year, significantly higher than the national average for truck drivers and the typical pay…

Engine emissions are a critical concern in the heavy-duty trucking sector, particularly with upcoming regulations such as EPA GHG ’27, which mandates an 80% reduction in NOx emissions. Despite potential political changes that could alter compliance timelines, fleets need to start adapting now for these inevitable shifts. Effective maintenance of aftertreatment systems—especially the diesel particulate filter—can aid fleet managers in maximizing vehicle availability and complying with new regulations. Proactive vs. Reactive Truck Aftertreatment Maintenance JT Roberson, strategic sales manager at Ceramex, outlines two distinct approaches to DPF and aftertreatment maintenance among fleet operators: Reactive aftertreatment maintenance: Fleets adopting this method…

Tractor-Trailer Driver Rescued from Suspended Cab For nearly an hour, a tractor-trailer driver found herself stuck in the cab of her vehicle, which was precariously hanging over the Ohio River from the side of a bridge in Kentucky following a multi-vehicle accident last Friday. Emergency responders on the bridge provided instructions to the trapped driver. Crews quickly established a rope system and lowered firefighter Bryce Carden from Louisville, Kentucky, to facilitate the rescue. “Thank God,” the driver exclaimed when Mr. Carden reached her cab, a moment he recounted during a news conference on Friday. Initially, Mr. Carden faced challenges in…

Federal Charges Filed Against Individuals Linked to California Insurance Company OAKLAND, Calif. — Three individuals associated with a now-defunct California insurance agency, which specialized in automobile liability insurance for truck drivers and small trucking firms, have been indicted on fraud charges in federal court. Charges Unveiled In a news announcement from United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey, along with FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp and San Francisco Division Postal Inspector in Charge Rafael Nuñez, it was disclosed that a federal grand jury indictment was made public on December 19. The accused—Jasbir S. Thandi, Sandeep Sahota, and Jaspreet…

Presidential Authority on Tariffs The president possesses extensive, albeit contested, power to implement tariffs on imports and exports. Both political parties show general support for imposing tariffs on imported goods. However, tariffs may significantly influence the trucking industry in the upcoming 2024 elections. Convergence in Policy for Blue-Collar Votes “There are notable disparities between the candidates concerning social issues, tax strategies, and traditional government practices. Nevertheless, the race for blue-collar votes has surprisingly led to similar policies aimed at enhancing domestic employment through increased local production, often at the expense of free trade,” stated Sharma. Direct Impact of Import Tariffs…

Challenges for Women in the Trucking Industry The trucking industry has long voiced concerns about a significant shortage of drivers. However, some women argue that trucking companies have created barriers that make it nearly impossible for them to secure driving positions. Hiring Practices Disadvantage Women Many trucking companies often do not hire female applicants unless they have other women available to serve as trainers. With less than 5 percent of truck drivers in the U.S. being women, there is a limited pool of female trainers accessible, making it difficult for women to gain entry into the field. Gender-Specific Training Policies…

A New Journey for Jalaja Jalaja dedicated 19 years to being a homemaker after marrying Ratheesh, a truck driver. At 42, she felt envious of her husband’s travels around the country and expressed a desire to join him on a trip to Kashmir for their wedding anniversary. However, Ratheesh said she could only accompany him if she drove the truck. Taking the Wheel Despite having obtained a heavy licence in 2018, Jalaja had never been interested in driving trucks. However, under Ratheesh’s encouragement, she decided to take the wheel, and after ten days of travel, they arrived in the beautiful…