Plus: OOIDA pushes tougher CDL rules | Old Dominion plans 5% rate hike
The “driver shortage” debate may never be settled, but one thing’s clear: people are trucking’s greatest asset. There’s always room to improve how we hire and recruit—and this week, we’re sharing resources that dig into just that.
Plus, nominations are now open for the Truckload Carriers Association’s annual program honoring your favorite drivers.
And if you think kids say the funniest things, wait until you watch this compilation of what truckers say.
A five-step plan. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association sent a letter to Congress urging stricter standards for CDL training and qualifications. Read the letter here.
"Our greatest resource." Here's a refreshing perspective from the chairman of the American Trucking Associations, applauding the hard-working people who keep the industry's wheels turning.
Reading list. Leaders are always growing and learning. This book takes a deep dive into hiring and the future of trucking.
The nominees are ... Recognize your favorite driver! The Truckload Carriers Association is accepting nominations for its Professional Drivers of the Year award program, which honors five drivers for their safety and leadership.
$170.8 million
J.B. Hunt's profit in Q3 2025, a 12% year-over-year increase. (Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette)
Beyond sustainability: How EVs could help in recruitment
Thanks to electric vehicles, trucking is slowly shedding its reputation as a gas-guzzling industry that harms the environment, according to Joan Benore of Benore Logistic Systems, Inc. By changing that image, the industry shows it’s open to new ideas and makes itself more appealing to new entrants to the workforce.
"That message could make all the difference in attracting fresh talent to an industry that powers the global economy," Benore writes.
Why this matters: Trucking leaders considering electrification should look at the bigger picture. It's not just about reducing emissions, but about saving costs in the long run and potentially making a business more appealing to talent that previously looked past the industry. (Supply & Demand Chain Executive)
STRICT STATES: Truckers say Texas, Arkansas tough on English rules
TRUCK TUMBLE: Paccar income, revenue down double digits as truck buying slows
WORK MORE: Trucking co. under fire for restructuring paid time off
TOP MARKS: Kodiak autonomous trucks get highest safety score
IN REVERSE: Bill would undo EPA rules, ban emissions control devices
IN MOTION: Driver forgets parking brake, truck rolls into pond
Old Dominion plans to increase rates by nearly 5%
Starting Nov. 3, Old Dominion Freight Line will implement a 4.9% general rate increase. The hike is designed to offset rising costs related to real estate, tech, equipment and employee wages.
Why this matters: Higher costs and persistent low freight rates have become unsustainable for motor carriers. The question is how the market will respond to higher rates: Will it push more freight to the spot market, or will shippers stay the course? (Trucking Dive)
Tech startup brings AI to small motor carriers
Tech pioneer Travis Rhyan is launching a new platform to democratize advanced technology in trucking, giving small fleets access to tools once reserved for mega-carriers. His startup, Carrier1, automates tasks like shipment creation, driver assignment and invoicing to cut down on administrative burden.
Why this matters: Small carriers don't always have the capital, resources or time to invest in technology. As more tech companies develop tools designed especially for small businesses, the playing field starts to level, allowing small fleets to better compete with trucking giants. (FreightWaves)
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The Inside Lane is curated and written by Shefali Kapadia and edited by Bianca Prieto.
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