Truckload carriers are beginning to observe a rise in demand as they adapt to changing tariffs and regulations under the Trump administration, according to Truckload Carriers Association President Jim Ward in a recent interview with Trucking Dive.
During the Truckload 2025 conference in Phoenix last week, attendees expressed optimism about the upcoming year, Ward noted.
“They are quite hopeful about the future,” he stated.
Trucking Dive compiled key insights from Ward’s discussion at the event, which attracted 1,300 carriers and vendors, highlighting the priorities and expectations of the truckload sector for the remainder of the year.
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
TRUCKING DIVE: What insights have you gained from events like Truckload 2025?
TCA PRESIDENT JIM WARD: Our members are very encouraged by the changes implemented by various secretaries and administrators. There is a lot of enthusiasm for Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and members appreciate the actions taken by Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin in terms of emissions. These changes have paused emissions regulations that could have significantly disrupted our industry.
On the Importance of Responsible Environmental Stewardship
We strongly support environmental responsibility but emphasize that it should be fiscally viable and feasible. The equipment and technology must be in place to meet these requirements while ensuring quality service for our customers and a positive working environment for professional drivers.
Concerns About the Independent Contractor Model
Maintaining the integrity of the independent contractor model remains a priority for everyone involved. The stance of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer on this issue is still unclear. She has indicated she will follow President Trump’s lead, which many view favorably based on his previous labor policies regarding independent contractors.
Adapting to Tariff Changes
There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding future tariff outcomes. Most carriers report seeing initial signs of improvement, particularly reflected in fourth-quarter results from several public companies, which has fostered a sense of hope.
The Current Tariff Climate
Tariffs have caused a temporary pause, leading businesses to evaluate manufacturers’ capital investment decisions. However, the situation remains fluid and heavily dependent on one individual who is making daily decisions. One member compared the current state concerning tariffs to being “rocks on the seashore,” waiting for the waves to recede and seeing how things settle.
