It seems as though it was just yesterday when we wrote about the simplification of the permit process for commercial vehicles in the great state of Iowa. In the conclusion for that article, we wrote: “With the Hawkeye State working to expedite the process of providing relief during emergencies, it raises the question as to […]
It is no surprise to anyone that federal regulations are becoming stricter and stricter in regards to emissions from the transportation industry, especially regarding Class 8 trucks. While nobody is against cleaner air, some trucking industry stakeholders believe a more modest approach to the problem is the key to balancing economic and environmental interests. Out […]
What is a Service Truck? Service trucks are versatile and valuable assets for businesses across a wide range of industries in the USA. They are designed to transport tools, equipment, and personnel to job sites, while also providing on-site support for various operations. In this article, we will explore the most popular service trucks used […]
What Are Commercial Vehicles? Commercial vehicle classes are differentiated based on their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and are designed to cater to a wide range of transportation and business needs across various industries. Ranging from light-duty Class 1 vehicles with a GVWR of up to 6,000 lbs, such as small cargo vans and pickup […]
If you have been following the truck industry for even a second since the coronavirus pandemic ended, there is a 99.9% chance that you have heard us or another player in the field use the word “backlog”. The simple fact of the matter is that truck building has always had a backlog, even in a […]
Dump trucks come in all different shapes and sizes, axle requirements, engine types, body styles, materials, and even your dump truck’s transmission are all factors that need to be considered. Luckily, this article breaks it all down for you, starting with, what is a dump truck? In this article, we will cover the different parts […]
In what might be the largest business deal in the trucking industry that we will see this decade, Knight-Swift, one of the largest fleets in the nation, has decided to purchase U.S. Xpress, a smaller but still significantly large truck fleet, to the tune of $800 million.Acquisition DetailsKnight-Swift is acquiring the smaller company in the […]
The cargo van market has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, thanks in large part to the rise in e-commerce and the increased demand for delivery services. In the United States, several makes and models have emerged as the top choices for delivery companies, offering the perfect combination of performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. In this article, […]
Heavy-duty trucks play a vital role in the transportation and logistics industry, enabling businesses to move goods across vast distances. For many companies, purchasing a heavy-duty truck can be a significant investment. This article will explore the different classes of heavy-duty trucks, discuss the financing options available, and provide helpful tips for securing the best […]
The world of heavy-duty trucks is vast and diverse, with many different makes, models, and configurations to suit various needs. In this article, we will explore the differences between various heavy-duty trucks, delving into popular makes and models, their unique configurations, and the price ranges for each type. We will also provide detailed specifications for […]
What is a Medium Duty Truck? Medium-duty trucks are a critical component of the transportation and logistics industry, playing a significant role in the movement of goods and materials. Ranging from Class 4 to Class 6, these trucks are versatile, reliable, and designed to meet the needs of various commercial applications. In this article, we […]
Depending on who you ask, the average trucker age can vary. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that it is almost forty-six. One thing that statisticians can likely agree on is the trend that the number is slowly but surely going up, not down. In order to prepare the drivers of the future, […]
Does this story sound familiar? Last year, we wrote about how the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) had plans to reduce Unified Carrier Register (UCR) fees for 2023. Now, it looks like they are going to do it again.DetailsThe UCR, a system where fees are collected from and given to 41 member states, has […]
When you consider that January and February tend to be the slowest months of the year for the trucking industry, the fact that the numbers did not change too much from the year prior is a good sign. FTR and ACT Research have the numbers.January 2023 NumbersFTR reports the January 2023 orders for big rigs […]
Last mile delivery, a vital component of the supply chain, has gained increasing attention in recent years due to the exponential growth of e-commerce and the rising demand for efficient, fast, and convenient delivery services. In this article, we’ll delve into the concept of last mile delivery, its importance, challenges, and the innovative solutions that […]
In the dynamic and ever-evolving logistics industry, LTL freight shipping has emerged as a popular and cost-effective shipping option for businesses. With its unique characteristics, LTL shipping allows companies to transport smaller loads, thereby reducing costs and improving overall efficiency. This article delves into the world of LTL freight shipping, exploring its meaning, how it […]
What is Logistics? Logistics is a crucial aspect of modern businesses, playing a vital role in the planning, execution, and control of the movement and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. Essentially, it ensures that the right products are delivered to the right place, […]
Commercial vehicles play a vital role in various industries, from transportation and logistics to construction and public transit. To better understand the diverse range of commercial vehicles and their specific functions, it’s essential to familiarize oneself with their classification systems. In the United States, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classifies commercial vehicles into eight distinct […]
In many ways, TopMark Funding’s home state of California is ahead of the curve, such as with stringent engine bans. However, there is one area of interest that California is lagging behind upon when compared to other states such as Arizona and Texas, and that is that it currently forbids the testing of larger vehicles.DetailsThe […]
Vocational vehicles, also known as work trucks, are specialized vehicles designed for specific work purposes. These vehicles are commonly used in construction, transportation, and maintenance industries. They come in different shapes and sizes, ranging from light-duty pickups to heavy-duty trucks. In this article, we will take a closer look at the most popular vocational vehicles, […]
Driverwyze, a company that works with the Department of Transportation and other enforcement agencies on the road, is adding Pennsylvania to the list of states that it serves for bypassing weigh stations for truckers.DetailsDriverwyze’s PreClear system enables drivers, either through ELD, tablet, or phone, to skip weigh stations and other inspection stations in a legal […]
TopMark Funding is located in Roseville, California. We are a few miles northeast of Sacramento, and most consider Roseville to be part of the “Greater Sacramento Area”, despite being in Placer County. The winter storms that had been declared in thirteen counties earlier have expanded into twenty-one more, and as such Governor Gavin Newsom is […]
By the time the Internet publishes this article, two rest areas in Missouri, southbound I-29 near Dearborn and I-35 near Lathrop, will be closed for around seven months. This will put more pressure on the truck parking problem in the Show-me State, but not for long, as the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is planning […]
As the transportation industry continues to grow, the importance of reducing gas consumption in semi-trucks becomes increasingly important. Reducing gasoline consumption in a semi-truck not only saves money but also reduces the carbon footprint of the trucking industry. Here are some tips for reducing fuel consumption in a semi-truck. 1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure Proper […]
The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA), knowing that the federal government is going to regulate them eventually, has taken a proactive approach to its problem by outlining suggestions on what it thinks the government can do to help autonomous technology flourish while keeping people safe.DetailsYou can read the entire 12 page document at the relevant […]
The trucking industry has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, and it’s no surprise that technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry. With advancements in automation, connectivity, and data analytics, the trucking industry is poised for a transformative future. Automation Automation is a rapidly growing […]
In the United States, commercial trailers are an essential part of the trucking industry. They are used to transport goods, materials, and equipment across the country. There are various types of commercial trailers available, and the choice of trailer depends on the cargo being transported. Among the different types of trailers, there is one that […]
The Green Truck Summit kickstarted the NTEA Truck Work Week event in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 7th. At the event, industry stakeholders came together to discuss potential ideas for the truck fuel of the future and their various viabilities.Industry InfrastructurePerhaps the most notable speaker at the event was Andrew Wrobel, director of auto and mobility […]
Synthetic oil has been around for several decades, but it has gained popularity in recent years as a preferred choice for lubricating engines. Unlike conventional oil, artificial oil is made from chemical compounds designed to perform better in extreme temperatures and heavy-duty applications. 1. Better Engine Protection Synthetic oil provides better engine protection compared to […]
TopMark Funding’s home state of California has a state sales tax of 7.25%, the highest in the nation for consumers wanting to upgrade to the next highest size of flatscreen television. But even the highest standard sales tax rate pales in comparison to the Federal Excise Tax (FET), a 12% levy put in place to […]
If you own or operate a semi-truck, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle in good condition. One of the most critical components of your truck is its engine. A well-maintained engine ensures optimal performance and can help you avoid costly breakdowns on the road. Here are some tips on how to […]
What is a Load Board? A load board is an online platform that connects shippers and carriers in the transportation industry. Shippers post their available loads on the load board and carriers can search for and book those loads. Load boards are commonly used in the trucking industry and are a convenient way for shippers […]
While America is experiencing a tumultuous winter as a whole, the trucking industry is having an average slow season. As to be expected, freight rates decreased to match demand after the holidays. DAT Freight & Analytics has the numbers. February 2023 Numbers Dry van hauling declined from $2.38 to $2.26 per mile. Flatbed decreased four […]
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is the system by which the federal government tracks commercial drivers’ use of mind-altering drugs, and, should their licenses be revoked, how far along in the steps the driver is in being able to return to service. However, there was a loophole that a […]
Tow trucks play an essential role in our society, providing a vital service for drivers who are stranded on the side of the road. However, with so many different makes and models available, it can be challenging to determine which tow truck is the best for your business. Whether you’re looking for a traditional tow […]
What is a Tow Truck? A tow truck is a specialized vehicle designed to tow or move other vehicles that are unable to move on their own. Tow trucks are commonly used to transport vehicles that have been damaged in an accident, are illegally parked, or have broken down on the road. Tow trucks typically […]
In January, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a State of Emergency regarding widespread winter storms. Anyone living in the most populous state in the nation right now would agree that the downpour, after a short break, has continued. As such, another State of Emergency has been declared in the Golden State. Details You can read […]
Truck driving is an essential job that plays a vital role in keeping our economy moving. However, it’s also a job that can take a toll on a driver’s health and wellness. Long hours on the road, irregular schedules, and the sedentary nature of the job can lead to a variety of health problems, from […]
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is revising its rules regarding hours-of-service (HoS) violations that lead to out-of-service (OoS) declarations. In doing this, the CVSA hopes to allow more truckers on the road without compromising safety.Cooking the BooksDriving beyond the standard HoS does not normally lead to an OoS violation, it is the proven act […]
When Robin Hutcheson was promoted from Deputy Administrator to the top of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there was a vacancy for the Deputy position. The USDOT has found the person for the role: a man named Earl Adams Jr.The Experience of Earl Adams Jr.Normally, the Deputy Administrator position does not need a […]
Life has some universal truths. We will all die one day, the sun is very hot, and the month after the holidays tends to cause a lull in the trucking industry. In regards to trailer orders, 2023’s first month of the year was not an exception to the rule. ACT Research has the numbers!January 2023 […]
A lot of transportation and infrastructure red tape requires the use of American-made products when it comes to serving the public good. The logic makes sense, as the roads and railways are for Americans and ought to be made by Americans. However, this process takes time, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is suspending the […]
On February 15th, Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law a new statute that Iowa lawmakers hope will cut through time-consuming regulations easier in the case of an emergency and will benefit truckers working to provide substantial relief through oversized loads.DetailsThe process for getting an overweight permit in Iowa is usually arduous, but Iowa wants to […]
What are the top 5 best headsets for truckers? A wireless Bluetooth headset is arguably the most important piece of equipment a trucker can have. Bluetooth headsets for truckers are designed with comfort and noise control in mind. Noise-canceling and background sound mitigation allow you to stay more focused on the task at hand, driving, […]
Easily one of the greatest issues tackling the trucking industry today is the lack of available, safe truck parking. We once postulated that perhaps businesses with extra parking space could sell it, and one startup company, the Truck Parking Club, is hoping to pair weary drivers with companies hoping to make a few extra dollars […]
About International Trucks New International semi-trucks are becoming increasingly popular for transporting goods and merchandise nationwide. The new models boast high performance, improved fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge technologies that make them a great investment for trucking companies and independent contractors alike. International Truck Models for 2023 Medium Duty CV Series The CV series is a […]
