This rule crackdown could shrink trucking’s workforce

Plus: A driver’s GoFundMe bid to start his own fleet | The industry's most pressing questions

New research has uncovered a clear connection between carrier safety and English proficiency violations. And with the enforcement crackdowns on ELP and CDLs, the industry could see an impact on truck driver availability next year.

Also in today's issue, one trucker's unique approach to funding his own trucking company.

First, though, check out this reel: a driver shares the No. 1 thing he'd change about the trucking industry. Surprising or expected?

ROADSIDE READS

From military to truck. On this Veterans Day, meet the finalists of 2025 Transition Trucking, a program that supports service members moving into professional trucking careers.

2026 predictions. C.H. Robinson's latest market update forecasts some impacts on truck driver supply next year, given recent enforcement actions on English proficiency and CDLs.

AMA. A Department of Transportation officer answers the most pressing questions from truckers and drivers.

Funding round. One driver with 20 years behind the wheel wants to buy a truck to start his own company. His strategy? Launching a GoFundMe.

INDUSTRY VOICES

Trucking garners recognition as an essential industry

The trucking industry hasn't always had the most positive reputation among the public, but that perception is changing.

"There’s a growing recognition around trucking’s essential role in our economy. You could feel it in every room," says Karen Smerchek, chairman of the Truckload Carriers Association.

Why this matters: The more the public recognizes trucking and understands its pivotal role in society, the more power the industry has to influence change. That could be anything from policy decisions to recruiting younger generations to work in the industry. (The Trucker)

FAST LANE

OUT OF SERVICE: Brake violations found in 15% of inspected vehicles

SOFT MARKET: Daimler vehicle orders down almost 30% YoY

HEFTY FINE: Costco fined $800K over possible driver misclassification

TOP ISSUES: Lawsuit reform, insurance are trucking's biggest concerns in Louisiana

TOUGH TIMES: Fleet lays off 74, citing rising insurance costs, contract losses

COMING SOON: Volvo "quarters away" from removing safety drivers in AVs

SEEN & HEARD

"It does show very clearly that English language ELP violations are associated with unsafe driving and carriers." - Alex Scott, University of Tennessee professor

Scott analyzed roadside inspection data from May to September of this year to see if there were any connections between carrier safety and English language proficiency violations. Turns out, he found clear links between the two—noting there's a correlation, but not necessarily causation. (Commercial Carrier Journal)

ROAD REPORT

How the best fleets manage drivers during a down market

Motor carriers recognized under the Best Fleets to Drive For awards have a key thing in common: They're not forgetting the importance of their people and drivers during tough economic times. These trucking companies make sure to involve drivers in decisions, use data to reward good driving behavior and clearly communicate any necessary pivots.

Why this matters: Cutting corners to slash costs may be tempting as rates remain low and expenses rise, but that strategy rarely serves businesses in the long run. The strongest fleets realize that supporting their critical workforce is just as important in a down market as in an up market. (Truck News)

CONNECTED FLEET

Truck OEM teams up with NVIDIA, PlusAI for autonomous trucks

International Motors, which manufactures trucks and engines, is partnering with some big names in tech. PlusAI will give the vehicles a virtual driver called SuperDrive, and AI computing power will come from tech powerhouse NVIDIA.

Why this matters: The technology behind autonomous vehicles is rapidly scaling. The question is whether regulations will create a runway for growth, or if they'll hit the brakes to address key questions around safety and liability. (FreightWaves)