Author: Ai

2025’s peak retail season the best for trucking in years

The 2025 peak retail season delivered one of the strongest late-year setups trucking has seen in years, with clear signs of tightening capacity and stronger pricing during the holiday push.

One key marker was tender rejections, which topped out during the season. Tender rejections matter to drivers because they typically rise when carriers have more options and are less willing to accept contract loads at lower rates, a sign that available trucks are being absorbed by demand.

Spot rates also posted a notable peak-season climb. Rates moved from a seasonal low of $2.32 per mile on November 15 to $2.76 per mile by December 28, an 18.9% increase over roughly six weeks. For drivers, that kind of move is a straightforward signal that loads were paying more as the calendar moved deeper into the retail rush.

Refrigerated freight followed a slightly different set of pressures. Tariffs have had less of an impact on the refrigerated truckload market because a large portion of the seasonal demand surge seen in May and June comes from domestically grown crops. That means reefer demand can be driven more by U.S. harvest cycles than by imported goods flows.

Overall, the late-2025 peak season stood out for two simple reasons that matter behind the wheel: stronger pricing as December progressed, and the kind of capacity tightening that shows up when rejections rise and carriers have leverage.

NYC congestion pricing lives on, court pushes decision into 2026

New York City’s congestion pricing plan remains legally intact for now after a court order kept the program in place and blocked the federal government from taking punitive action while the case moves forward.

The order effectively preserves the status quo until the court issues a final ruling. A decision is now expected in 2026, extending uncertainty around when — or whether — the tolling plan will take effect.

Following Gov. Kathy Hochul’s announcement of a pause, attorneys for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) filed notifications in the lawsuits challenging congestion pricing. In those filings, the MTA said that with the pause, it no longer expected congestion pricing to start by June 30.

The development matters for truck drivers and other commercial operators because congestion pricing would add a new cost for trips into parts of Manhattan, affecting route planning, delivery schedules, and operating expenses. With the rollout paused and litigation still pending, carriers and owner-operators are left operating under current rules while watching for the next court milestone.

Reports from Politico and The New York Times the night before Hochul’s announcement had indicated a change was coming, and the MTA’s court updates confirmed that the June 30 start date is no longer anticipated.

Maine CMV troopers turn the tables by targeting passenger car violations near semi trucks during blitzes

The Maine State Police (MSP) is highlighting a new traffic safety initiative that puts commercial motor vehicle (CMV) troopers in a different role: focusing enforcement on passenger vehicle drivers who commit violations while operating near semi trucks.

According to MSP, the goal is straightforward: improve overall highway safety by addressing unsafe driving behavior around large trucks.

Rather than concentrating only on truck compliance issues, this approach shifts attention to the passenger vehicles that may be creating risk in close proximity to CMVs. MSP emphasized that passenger vehicles have been involved in crashes and that violations around trucks can contribute to preventable incidents.

The initiative is intended to reduce those preventable crashes by targeting the behaviors that tend to create trouble around big rigs, and by improving day-to-day interactions between cars and trucks. As MSP framed it, focusing on vehicles violating traffic laws around trucks is one way Maine hopes to reduce preventable crashes and improve interactions between cars and trucks.

For professional drivers, the broader context is familiar: trucks operate with longer stopping distances, larger blind spots, and less room for evasive maneuvers. When passenger vehicles violate traffic laws near semis, the consequences can escalate quickly, even when the truck driver is doing everything by the book.

MSP’s message with this initiative is that safer highways depend on all drivers—not only the ones behind the wheel of commercial equipment.

California’s long wait for autonomous trucks may soon end

California’s long-running holdout on autonomous trucking could be moving toward a change, with testing permits potentially available by late 2026. The eventual allowance of autonomous vehicle (AV) trucks in the state is expected to expand the national autonomous trucking network by opening up more direct long-haul routing through a key freight market.

For drivers and fleets, California matters because it sits at the center of major freight lanes and connects ports, inland distribution centers, and interstate corridors that feed much of the country. A workable AV-truck testing pathway in the state would make it easier for autonomous trucking companies to link routes across state lines rather than stopping at California’s border.

Even with that timeline on the table, the process is not immediate. Adams noted it could take several more months before the rule is published. After publication, there is additional waiting time before a rule takes effect.

That means the window for autonomous trucking companies to begin operating under a new California framework may still stretch beyond the point when permits first become possible, depending on how long the remaining steps take.

• What happened: A path toward allowing AV truck activity in California is developing, with a possible testing permit timeline of late 2026.
• Why it matters: California’s inclusion would help connect and expand long-haul autonomous truck routes nationwide.
• What to watch: Rule publication and the required waiting period before the rule takes effect.

Michigan truck crash underscores dangers of winter storms snarling roadways

BELLEVILLE, Mich. (WXYZ) — Dangerous winter weather in southeast Michigan led to major travel disruptions on Monday, including heavy slowdowns and a chain-reaction crash involving more than 50 vehicles on northbound I-75.

Officials also shut down a major stretch of highway after a tractor-trailer crashed through an overpass and exploded on impact, underscoring how quickly winter conditions can turn routine runs into high-risk situations.

For professional drivers, the incidents highlight a familiar winter reality: when roads are slick and visibility or traction drops, traffic bunches up, stopping distances grow, and even small speed differences can trigger multi-vehicle collisions.

The situation in Belleville is a reminder that winter storms don’t just slow freight movement — they can close key corridors without warning, tie up equipment for hours, and create dangerous scenes for anyone caught in the backup.

• Where: Northbound I-75 in southeast Michigan, near Belleville
• What happened: A chain-reaction crash involving more than 50 vehicles, and a separate tractor-trailer crash through an overpass with an explosion on impact
• Why it matters: Winter conditions can rapidly overwhelm traffic flow and increase the consequences of any loss of control or sudden stop

Hours of service weather-related FMCSA waivers now cover 20 states

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued or extended three hours-of-service (HOS) waivers affecting truck drivers across more than 20 states, expanding the areas where certain federal driving-time limits can be temporarily relaxed.

According to the agency, two of the waivers apply to states in the Northeast and Midwest and specifically allow drivers to extend driving as part of emergency relief operations tied to weather-related needs.

HOS waivers are typically used when major weather events disrupt normal supply chains and emergency response efforts. For drivers, these waivers can provide added flexibility to complete time-sensitive loads related to relief work when conditions and demand make normal schedules difficult to maintain.

It’s important for drivers to remember that an HOS waiver is not a blanket exemption for all freight. These declarations generally apply to specific emergency relief efforts and are meant to support urgent movements connected to the disruption.

The waivers reflect a broader pattern seen during significant weather impacts: federal regulators temporarily adjust service rules in affected regions to help keep essential shipments moving while states and communities respond to operational disruptions.

Hunts Point Produce Market to be rebuilt for $405 million, New York City officials say

Dec. 30, 2025 — New York City officials announced a $405 million agreement to move forward with the redevelopment of the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, a major food distribution hub that many truck drivers serve on a regular basis.

The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) said the deal is “a historic agreement to advance the redevelopment” of the market. Officials described the work as a rebuilding effort aimed at addressing decades-old infrastructure.

According to the announcement, the project is backed by $405 million in city, state and federal funding. The agreement was announced by then-Mayor Eric Adams as one of his final acts in office.

For drivers, Hunts Point matters because it is a key stop in the regional food supply chain. When a major terminal like this is rebuilt, it can affect how freight moves in and out of the city and how efficiently trucks can be served at the docks and through the facility’s internal roadways.

NYCEDC framed the redevelopment as a step toward modernizing the market’s aging infrastructure. City officials did not provide additional project details in the information released with the announcement.

Aurora to help haul frac sand ‘around the clock’ using autonomous trucks on public roads in the Permian Basin

Aurora is moving forward with plans to use autonomous trucks to haul frac sand on public roads in the Permian Basin, aiming for near-continuous operations without a human driver in the cab.

The companies involved have requested a five-year arrangement tied to the autonomous trucking work. The setup described relies on autonomous driving hardware mounted on the truck cab, with the goal of avoiding the need for human drivers during these runs.

For working drivers, the significance is straightforward: frac sand hauling is high-volume, repeatable work that often runs on tight schedules. Deploying autonomous trucks in this lane highlights where the technology is being positioned first—steady freight on set routes, operating “around the clock.”

Aurora’s broader autonomy push includes established industry partnerships. In April 2023, Aurora partnered with Continental to deliver autonomous driving systems for the trucking industry, signaling that the company is building toward scaled deployment rather than one-off demonstrations.

Regulation remains a major factor in where autonomous trucking can operate. The eventual allowance of autonomous trucks in California is expected to expand the national autonomous trucking network and enable more efficient long-haul routes. Testing permits could be available by late 2026, which would matter for carriers and drivers because California is a key link in many long-distance freight corridors.

DOT ponies up $118M for CMV enforcement

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation on Tuesday, Dec. 30, announced more than $118 million in grants that the agency says are aimed at ramping up commercial motor vehicle (CMV) enforcement.

According to the announcement, the funding is intended to strengthen enforcement tied to commercial driving standards, with an emphasis on CDL safety. DOT also said the grants are designed to support pathways for veterans to enter the trucking workforce.

For drivers, enforcement-focused grant funding typically shows up on the road through state and local efforts such as inspections and other compliance activity. DOT’s message with this round of grants was that more resources are being directed toward improving safety and oversight in commercial transportation.

The move also highlights the department’s dual focus: maintaining strong safety standards around licensing and commercial vehicle operation while also encouraging workforce entry for qualified veterans.

• What happened: DOT announced more than $118 million in grants on Dec. 30.
• What the agency says it’s for: Ramp up CMV enforcement and strengthen CDL safety standards.
• Additional focus: Support veteran pathways into trucking.

Trans-Pacific ocean rates swing as New Year looms

Transpacific ocean freight rates from China to the U.S. West and East Coasts stayed elevated week over week as ocean carriers held firm on pricing during the typical holiday-season slowdown.

Even with volumes easing in the slow season, carriers appear to be positioning rates ahead of Chinese New Year and the next round of annual ocean contract negotiations. For trucking, ocean pricing and capacity discipline matter because they influence how much freight moves through West and East Coast ports—and how steady the downstream drayage and over-the-road pipeline can be.

The current rate firmness on the transpacific stands in contrast to what’s happening on Asia-Europe lanes. In the fourth quarter, carriers have had more success supporting Asia-Europe rates than they have on the transpacific, in part due to more aggressive use of blanked sailings.

Blanked sailings—when scheduled vessel departures are canceled—are a tool carriers use to tighten capacity when demand softens. That tighter capacity has helped hold up pricing on the Asia-Europe side as those lanes enter the home stretch of their annual contract negotiation period.

On the transpacific, carriers have still managed to keep rates elevated week over week through the holiday slowdown, setting the stage for pricing discussions as Chinese New Year approaches and contract season gets closer.

CB radio moment in Houston traffic echoes an older era of driver talk

A brief CB-radio exchange tied to Houston-area traffic drew attention this week for how clearly it reflects the culture that once made CB chatter a daily part of life behind the wheel.

The scene centers on the Glide-In, where a base-station CB radio is being used inside the diner. While Violet steps away to give a special birthday present and “The Duck” offers Melissa a ride, Wallace arrives and begins checking license plates.

As Wallace works, Pig Pen and Spider Mike use the diner’s base-station CB to make fun of him over the air. The exchange escalates to the point that Wallace attempts to arrest Spider Mike for vagrancy.

For drivers, the incident is a reminder of what CB radio can be at its best and worst: a real-time communications tool that can ease congestion, pass along local information, and help drivers feel less isolated—while also creating conflict when it becomes a platform for personal attacks.

The moment also lands with a bit of pop-culture resonance. The song “On the Radio” was released as a single and, in February 1980, became the artist’s tenth top-ten U.S. hit and her eighth and final consecutive top-five single. It peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and number nine on another chart listing.

Taken together, the diner CB exchange and the “On the Radio” reference underline a broader context many drivers know well: radio—whether CB or commercial—has long shaped the rhythm of road life, especially in heavy metro traffic where information and emotions can travel as fast as vehicles.

Walmart’s $152M deal signals Arizona’s logistics real estate boom

Walmart has completed a $152 million purchase of a large warehouse complex in Glendale, Arizona, a move that highlights how quickly the state’s logistics real estate market has been growing.

The deal matters for trucking because warehouse capacity and location directly shape freight patterns. When a major retailer buys a facility of this size, it can strengthen the area’s role as a distribution hub and support higher volumes of inbound and outbound freight tied to retail replenishment.

In the broader context, the purchase fits into Arizona’s ongoing evolution into a key distribution point for the region. As commercial logistics real estate expands in the state, large-scale warehousing becomes more common—bringing more freight consolidation, more scheduled deliveries, and more steady demand around major metro corridors.

• What happened: Walmart bought a massive warehouse complex in Glendale for $152 million.
• Why it matters: Large distribution sites influence where freight moves and where trucks are needed.
• Broader context: The purchase reflects Arizona’s fast-growing logistics real estate market and its role as a distribution hub.

For drivers running Arizona lanes, the trend signals continued activity tied to warehousing and distribution, especially in and around the Phoenix metro area where facilities like this typically concentrate freight movement.

GATX, Brookfield complete purchase of Wells Fargo rail leasing business

Railcar lessor GATX and investment firm Brookfield have completed their purchase of Wells Fargo’s rail leasing business, a deal that shifts a large fleet of rail equipment to new ownership.

Under the transaction, a joint venture between GATX and Brookfield will purchase approximately 105,000 railcars for $4.4 billion.

Separately, Brookfield will acquire another portion of the business: the Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC) rail portfolio of approximately 23,000 railcars. Brookfield is also the owner of short line rail operator Genesee & Wyoming.

For trucking and intermodal operations, railcar leasing matters because leased fleets help determine how much rail capacity is available, what types of equipment are in service, and how quickly shippers can secure cars for moving freight. When ownership changes hands, the day-to-day movement of freight may not change overnight, but the companies managing the equipment—and setting leasing terms—do.

• What happened: GATX and Brookfield completed the acquisition of Wells Fargo’s rail leasing business.
• Scale: About 105,000 cars in the joint venture purchase, plus about 23,000 cars acquired separately by Brookfield.
• Why it matters: Railcar availability and management can influence intermodal and rail freight flows that often connect with truckload and drayage moves.

The deal also highlights the role of large investors and specialized lessors in controlling major pools of freight equipment—an important piece of the broader transportation network that trucking relies on when freight shifts between rail and road.

Competing railroads claim UP-NS merger application omits key information

Competing railroads are pushing back on the merger application filed by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, arguing that key details needed to evaluate the deal have been left out.

Canadian National (CN) filed the longest set of comments—91 pages including exhibits—and said the application fails to identify all shippers that will go from being served by two railroads to one, and from three railroads to two. Those changes matter because they describe where competition would shrink after a merger.

Other opposing railroads made a similar point, contending the application deliberately withholds crucial information, hindering a proper assessment of the merger’s true character and potential anticompetitive harms. In plain terms, they argue regulators and the public can’t fully judge the effects of the merger without a clearer map of which customers would lose rail options.

For trucking, the dispute is worth watching because rail competition can influence rates, service levels, and how freight is routed. When shippers have fewer rail choices, it can affect how much freight stays on rail versus shifts to trucks, and how reliably freight moves in certain lanes.

The comments focus less on the merger concept itself and more on whether the application provides enough shipper-by-shipper detail to measure where competition would be reduced and what that could mean for the freight market.

Freight winners in 2026 will build for disruption, uShip CEO says

Flexibility is shaping up to be freight’s most valuable currency in 2026, according to uShip CEO Sean Wu. Wu said the shippers and logistics teams that perform best won’t be the ones that only chase lower rates, but the ones that can keep freight moving when conditions change fast.

For drivers and small fleets, that message matters because the same disruptions that whipsaw shipper networks also shift demand for trucks. Wu’s comments point to a freight environment where a shipper’s ability to adapt quickly can determine whether loads stay steady or get delayed, rerouted or canceled.

Wu highlighted three areas where freight operations are separating into winners and losers:

• Diversification of capacity: Wu said blending contract freight with on-demand options, including smaller fleets and owner-operators, helps shippers recover faster when disruptions hit.
• Visibility and speed: Teams that are empowered to reroute shipments in hours, instead of waiting through multiple layers of approvals, tend to outperform slower competitors.
• Stronger carrier relationships: Transparent pricing, reliable communication and faster payment cycles build trust, which becomes an advantage when capacity tightens or freight needs specialized handling.

Wu also framed freight cost management in a different way for 2026. He said controlling costs will be less about pushing rates lower and more about eliminating inefficiencies that slow freight down or create avoidable problems.

In practical terms, the approach Wu described places more value on carriers who can respond quickly, communicate clearly and handle freight reliably when plans change. That can elevate the role of smaller fleets and owner-operators in shipper networks, especially when on-demand capacity is needed to keep freight moving.

Former U.S. Senator and former trucker Ben Nighthorse Campbell dies at 92

DENVER — Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former Colorado congressman and U.S. senator known for his advocacy of Native American issues, died Tuesday, according to the information provided.

Campbell died of natural causes surrounded by his family.

For professional drivers, Campbell’s passing matters because he was widely recognized not only for his years in federal office, but also for his connection to trucking. His public service and background made him a notable figure to many in the working community who follow transportation and policy news.

Campbell served Colorado in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, building a national reputation for focusing attention on Native American issues during his time in Washington.

The ‘ingenious strategy’ behind most truckers’ least favorite week of the year: International Roadcheck

From champagne and party hats to the presents under Christmas trees, truck drivers move the everyday goods that keep households stocked and businesses running. They work long hours, spend weeks away from home, and keep freight moving through nights, weekends, and holidays.

As 2026 approaches, many drivers say they want one thing above all: safe roads. For a lot of drivers, that conversation comes into sharp focus during International Roadcheck, the annual inspection blitz that can slow freight, tighten parking, and turn a normal run into a long day of waiting.

Alongside the safety push, one driver described a separate concern that can hit the industry any time of year: scams that target drivers and small operators. In a report to a deputy, the driver said the scam felt “ingenious” because it appeared convincing enough that he called “Dan’s” phone number listed on what was supposed to be Dan’s website.

The driver’s account highlights how quickly a normal step—looking up a company online and calling the number provided—can turn into a problem when a website is not what it claims to be.

For working drivers, the broader takeaway is that road safety isn’t only about inspections and equipment. It also includes protecting the time and money drivers need to stay moving and stay in business, especially during high-pressure weeks when delays and disruptions already pile up.

Trump Muses About Ousting Powell as Fed Pick Nears

President Donald Trump said he already has a preferred candidate in mind to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, but indicated he is not in a rush to announce a choice. In the same remarks, Trump also floated the idea that he might remove the current Fed chair, Jerome Powell.

The comments put fresh attention on leadership at the central bank, which is responsible for setting monetary policy in the United States. For trucking, Fed policy matters because it influences interest rates across the economy, shaping the cost of equipment loans, business credit, and consumer spending that drives freight demand.

Any talk of changing the Fed’s top leadership can move markets and raise questions about policy direction. Drivers and small fleets often feel the impact through financing costs, particularly when buying trucks and trailers or renewing lines of credit used to cover fuel, maintenance and payroll.

The Federal Reserve chair is a high-profile role because the Fed’s decisions on interest rates are closely tied to inflation and economic growth. Those factors ripple through transportation: higher borrowing costs can slow investment and spending, while inflation pressures can affect everything from parts and tires to insurance and shop rates.

Trump’s remarks underscored two separate points: that he says he has a candidate in mind for the Fed’s next chair, and that he is also considering whether to remove Powell. No timeline for an announcement was provided in the information given.

Beyond the highway: Waabi’s bet on door-to-door autonomy

Autonomous trucking has spent years proving itself on highways, where lanes are predictable and traffic patterns are more consistent. Now, Waabi is signaling a push into a tougher part of the job: moving beyond highway-only driving toward door-to-door autonomy.

The company said that “getting away from just highways is the next level in terms of technical difficulty.” For working drivers, that statement lines up with reality: the hardest parts of most trips aren’t the miles at 65 mph, but the transitions—surface streets, tight turns, complex intersections, and the final approach to customers and yards.

Waabi tied this next step to the broader shift in artificial intelligence, saying the generative AI boom has made the problem easier—or at least faster—to work on. In plain terms, the company is pointing to newer AI methods as a tool to speed up development for more complex driving environments.

In separate industry news included in the same raw briefing, the company will begin to assemble its next-generation robotaxi on Zeekr's RT platform, with a stated goal of building “tens of thousands” of fully autonomous Waymo vehicles per year. That note underscores how quickly autonomy efforts are expanding beyond pilots and small fleets, and how production plans are becoming part of the conversation.

For trucking, the key context is that “highway autonomy” and “door-to-door autonomy” are not the same job. Highway-focused systems can limit where they operate and when they hand off control, while door-to-door operation requires handling the messy, high-judgment sections of a route that drivers deal with every day. Companies that can safely bridge that gap could change how freight moves between shippers, receivers, and the open road—though the technical bar is higher.

Hyundai Recalls 50,000 Vehicles Over Fire Risk

Hyundai has issued a safety recall for more than 50,000 vehicles after identifying a potential fire risk, according to information from Gray News.

The recall involves one of Hyundai’s most popular SUVs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists about 51,500 vehicles as affected.

For professional drivers, recalls like this matter because fire risk issues can create roadside hazards and unexpected delays. Owner-operators and fleet drivers who use SUVs as chase vehicles, personal transport between loads, or service vehicles may want to verify whether their vehicle is included in the affected group.

Hyundai’s move is a reminder that safety recalls are a routine part of vehicle ownership and maintenance across the industry, whether you’re running a tractor, a straight truck, or a personal vehicle that supports life on the road.

Large carrier M&A proves elusive in 2025

Large freight carriers largely avoided major mergers and acquisitions in 2025, choosing to prioritize internal fixes over big purchase deals.

With freight demand staying weak and day-to-day operational challenges still pressing, many of the biggest fleets focused on cost-cutting and improving asset utilization — in plain terms, running their existing trucks, trailers and terminals more efficiently instead of expanding through large acquisitions.

For working drivers, that shift matters because it points to how large fleets responded to market conditions. Rather than growing by buying competitors, the emphasis stayed on “doing more with less,” which typically means tighter control over spending and a heavier focus on keeping equipment productive.

That doesn’t mean deal-making stopped altogether. While large, headline M&A was limited, small and midsize transactions remained active, showing that consolidation and ownership changes continued in parts of the industry even as the biggest carriers stayed on the sidelines.

Overall, the 2025 pattern reflected a freight environment where improving efficiency took priority over rapid expansion, especially among the largest carriers.

Ocado Ends Exclusivity Terms After Setbacks to Kroger Deal

Ocado Group Plc has ended exclusive arrangements to supply its automated grocery warehouse technology, a change that comes as the company faces growing pressure from investors.

The move follows setbacks in Ocado’s partnership with Kroger Co. in the U.S., a major relationship tied to Ocado’s effort to expand its automated fulfillment technology in the American grocery market.

Ocado’s technology is built around automated grocery warehouses designed to handle large volumes of online and store-replenishment orders efficiently. For trucking and delivery operations, these kinds of facilities can shape how freight moves by influencing where freight is staged, how frequently loads move, and how tightly pickups and deliveries are scheduled.

By ending exclusivity terms, Ocado is changing how it manages access to its technology at a time when its U.S. plans with Kroger have not gone smoothly. The shift also highlights how investor expectations can affect decisions that ripple through grocery supply chains.

• What happened: Ocado ended exclusivity arrangements related to its automated warehouse technology.
• Why now: Investor pressure is increasing after setbacks tied to the Kroger partnership in the U.S.
• Why it matters to drivers: Automated fulfillment sites can affect freight patterns, appointment schedules, and distribution network changes.

Michigan truck crash underscores dangers of winter storms snarling roadways

BELLEVILLE, Mich. (WXYZ) — Dangerous winter weather in southeast Michigan disrupted traffic on Monday and led to a major chain-reaction crash on northbound I-75 involving more than 50 vehicles, according to the report.

The same winter driving conditions also shut down a major stretch of highway after a tractor-trailer crashed through an overpass and exploded on impact. The incidents highlight how quickly deteriorating road conditions can turn routine travel into a large-scale emergency.

For professional drivers, the situation is a reminder that winter storms don’t just slow freight movement — they can create sudden stop-and-go traffic, reduced visibility, and limited traction that raise the risk of multi-vehicle pileups, especially on busy interstate corridors.

• Where: Northbound I-75 in southeast Michigan, near Belleville
• What happened: Winter weather contributed to traffic slowdowns and a chain-reaction crash involving more than 50 vehicles
• Additional impact: A tractor-trailer crash through an overpass led to an explosion on impact and a highway shutdown

Winter events like this can tie up roadways for extended periods as responders work crashes and traffic backs up, putting additional pressure on drivers already navigating tight schedules. The broader context is simple: when storms move in, major highways can go from flowing to fully blocked in minutes, and the consequences often involve multiple vehicles and major delays.

Trucking’s top 10 regulatory headlines of 2025

2025 was a year where regulation, not equipment, set the tone for how trucking operated day to day. From emissions rollbacks to more aggressive action against CDL mills, the biggest regulatory headlines had real consequences for freight markets, safety compliance, and what it takes to keep a carrier running without problems.

Even when a rule change doesn’t look dramatic on paper, it can still change how enforcement plays out on the roadside, how insurance underwriters view risk, and how the public reacts when something goes wrong. That’s the thread connecting the year’s top regulatory stories: when standards slip anywhere, the effects don’t stay contained.

In plain terms, trucking remains a system where one weak link can raise scrutiny on everyone else. A few bad actors and a few poorly enforced standards can translate into broader enforcement pressure, tougher compliance expectations, and higher costs that land on safe operators too.

At the center of the year’s regulatory discussion were two themes that kept showing up in different forms: emissions policy and driver qualification integrity. Emissions rollbacks mattered because they directly influence fleet planning, maintenance strategy, and long-term equipment decisions. Crackdowns on CDL mills mattered because they touch the foundation of safety compliance: who is getting a license, how they’re trained, and whether that training holds up when the job gets difficult.

Those issues also feed into the bigger picture that working drivers see every day. When the system allows lower standards in one corner, consequences ripple across the industry through insurance rates, public perception, roadside enforcement, and the level of scrutiny placed on every truck on the road.

Not everything that shaped operations came with a headline. Automatic transmissions didn’t generate the same regulatory attention, but their impact was still significant. For drivers, that kind of shift changes how trucks behave in traffic and on grades, how training is approached, and how fleets think about recruiting and retention. In other words, the year’s operational reality was shaped by both rulemaking and the steady evolution of equipment.

Below is a clear, easy-to-read breakdown of the 10 most significant trucking regulatory headlines that shaped 2025, with an emphasis on what happened, why it mattered, and how it affected the freight market and compliance environment.

US rail shipments down 7% in last full week

Rail freight volumes across North America slipped during the last full week, with carload traffic showing the biggest year-over-year drop.

Based on nine reporting railroads in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, weekly volume totaled 310,557 carloads, down 8.7% from the same week in 2024. Intermodal volume came in at 361,679 units, a 3.9% decline.

When carloads and intermodal are combined, total weekly rail traffic was 541,476 carloads and intermodal units, down 0.2% compared with the corresponding week last year.

For working drivers, the split between carloads and intermodal matters. Carloads generally reflect bulk and industrial commodities moving in railcars, while intermodal tracks containers and trailers that can connect directly to truck freight through ramps and terminals. In this update, carloads fell more sharply than intermodal, while total combined traffic was nearly flat overall.

These weekly rail numbers are a useful snapshot of freight flow across major modes. Even modest shifts can show up at terminals, drayage markets, and in lane-by-lane competition between rail intermodal and long-haul truck freight, especially where shippers have options.

IFTA filing deadline approaches as 2025 ends

With the end of 2025 nearing, trucking operators are being reminded that International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) renewals are among the year-end filings due by Wednesday, Dec.

For drivers and fleets running in multiple jurisdictions, IFTA paperwork is a routine but important requirement tied to fuel taxes. Missing a deadline or submitting incorrect information can create headaches that pull attention away from keeping freight moving.

The reminder also highlights a broader end-of-year reality for many carriers and owner-operators: compliance tasks tend to stack up around the same time, and fuel tax reporting is one of the items that can’t be ignored without potential business disruption.

SafeRoad Compliance noted it can handle IFTA fuel tax filing online, positioning the service as an option for carriers looking to avoid errors and missed deadlines.

States ring in new year with fuel rate changes

As the new year begins, several states are adjusting fuel tax rates, a reminder for working drivers that what happens at the pump can depend as much on policy as it does on market prices.

In Michigan, a constitutional requirement that fuel tax revenue be used for transportation is driving a major change. The state’s fuel excise tax is set to rise from 31 cents to 52.4 cents per gallon on Jan. 1. For drivers fueling in Michigan, that increase can show up quickly in per-fill costs, even if the posted base price of fuel is trending down.

New Jersey is also part of the year-end fuel tax picture. A law passed in 2024 gives the state authority to raise fuel taxes each year, setting the stage for ongoing, scheduled adjustments rather than one-off changes.

These state tax moves are arriving at a time when national pump prices are offering some relief. In Washington, (TNND) reported that prices at the gas pump are the lowest since the coronavirus pandemic and are still falling, easing pressure on household budgets as the calendar turns.

For trucking, the combination matters. When fuel prices drop, day-to-day operating costs can ease, but state-level tax increases can offset part of that benefit depending on where a driver buys fuel. As 2025 starts, Michigan’s jump and New Jersey’s updated framework are key examples of how fuel costs can change even in a down-price market.

USDOT announces $118 million in grants to strengthen CDL standards, boost enforcement, and support veterans entering trucking

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced more than $118 million in competitive grant awards aimed at improving commercial driver’s license (CDL) standards, enhancing commercial vehicle enforcement, and helping military veterans transition into trucking careers.

The funding announcement was made on December 30, 2025, with awards going to state and local partners. USDOT said the goal is to strengthen safety and oversight in the commercial transportation system by backing programs that support licensing integrity and enforcement activity.

USDOT, led by Secretary Sean P. Duffy, framed the grants as part of a broader effort to improve road safety and the effectiveness of commercial vehicle enforcement. For drivers, that typically ties directly to how consistently CDL rules are applied across states and how enforcement resources are deployed on the road.

• CDL standards: Funding intended to support efforts that reinforce and improve CDL-related requirements and processes.
• Enforcement: Resources aimed at strengthening commercial vehicle enforcement to support safer operations.
• Veterans in trucking: Support meant to help military veterans move into trucking careers.

Because the awards are competitive and distributed through state and local partners, the impact will largely depend on how individual jurisdictions apply the funds to licensing, training-related processes, and enforcement priorities. The overall focus, according to USDOT, is improving safety and consistency in the commercial driving system while supporting workforce transitions for veterans.

Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern defend completeness of merger application

WASHINGTON — Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern defended their merger application as complete and urged federal regulators to reject requests to slow down the review.

In filings to the Surface Transportation Board, Union Pacific said efforts to delay the process are coming primarily from “competitors who will experience increased competition as a result of the merger.” The railroads argued the application includes what regulators need to begin evaluating the proposed deal.

The question of whether an application is “complete” matters because it affects the timeline and structure of the federal review. If the STB determines the filing is sufficient, the agency can proceed with its formal evaluation rather than pausing the case to demand additional material before moving forward.

For trucking and freight customers, major rail consolidation can shape how freight moves across the country. Rail competition, service options, and network access can influence how freight is priced and routed, which in turn affects demand for over-the-road capacity in some lanes and at some facilities.

The companies’ response signals they want the STB to keep the review on track and not grant delays requested by opponents. The next steps depend on how the STB addresses the dispute over the completeness of the application.

New Jersey Grants $13M to Hydrogen Drayage Truck Port Pilot

New Jersey is paying $13 million to fund a near-term experiment testing the ability of hydrogen-powered drayage trucks to move cargo at the Port Newark Container Terminal. The funding is aimed at evaluating how hydrogen trucks perform in day-to-day port drayage work, where trucks run short routes, make frequent stops, and cycle in and out of terminals.

For drivers who work the New York/New Jersey port complex, drayage equipment changes can affect what trucks are available in the yard, how dispatch schedules are built, and what kinds of fueling and maintenance support are needed to keep trucks running. This pilot is positioned as a practical test of whether hydrogen power can handle real freight moves at a busy container terminal.

The announcement comes as costs are also moving higher for trucks traveling in the region. Four toll agencies will raise rates affecting the Turnpike, Parkway, Port Authority crossings and Delaware River bridges. Those toll changes can impact drayage and regional freight in a direct, immediate way, especially for runs that regularly use port crossings or connect New Jersey with Pennsylvania and New York.

Together, the hydrogen drayage pilot and the toll increases highlight two pressures drivers and fleets are dealing with at the same time: new technology being tested in working freight operations, and routine operating costs rising across key corridors.

DHL Supply Chain Plans to Add Tesla Semis to Its Electric Fleet in 2026

DHL Supply Chain says it plans to integrate a fleet of Tesla Semis in 2026, expanding its battery-electric trucking operations in California as Tesla begins volume production of the Class 8 truck.

DHL currently operates 20 battery-electric trucks in California overall. Company representative Schablinski told TT that DHL has “more than just a handful” of Tesla Semis on order, with additional units expected to come online next year.

The decision follows a trial program that DHL described as successful, reporting energy use of 1.72 kWh per mile. DHL said the results point to meaningful operational potential, especially for day-to-day routes where electric trucks can be planned around predictable mileage and charging needs.

For drivers, moves like this matter because they signal how quickly battery-electric heavy-duty trucks are shifting from small demonstrations into regular fleet deployment. As more carriers add units, drivers are likely to see more electric tractors on certain lanes and at specific facilities—particularly in California, where electric truck adoption has been concentrated.

• DHL operates 20 battery-electric trucks in California today
• DHL plans to add a fleet of Tesla Semis in 2026 as volume production ramps up
• DHL cited trial efficiency of 1.72 kWh/mile as a key performance data point

Ocado Ends Exclusivity Terms After Setbacks to Kroger Deal

Ocado Group Plc has ended exclusive arrangements tied to its automated grocery warehouse technology, a move that comes as investor pressure increases following setbacks in its partnership with Kroger Co. in the United States.

Ocado is known for automation systems used inside large grocery fulfillment warehouses. Those facilities are part of the modern supply chain that feeds stores and supports online grocery orders, which in turn shapes the flow of freight into and out of distribution networks.

By ending exclusivity terms, Ocado is changing how it makes its technology available to customers. The company’s decision follows challenges in its US relationship with Kroger, which has been a key part of Ocado’s expansion story in that market.

For trucking, the broader context is that grocery distribution depends on reliable, high-throughput warehouses. When a major automation strategy or partnership hits setbacks, it can affect how quickly and where grocery freight moves—especially around dedicated fulfillment sites that receive inbound product and ship outbound store replenishment and e-commerce loads.

The ‘ingenious strategy’ behind most truckers’ least favorite week of the year: International Roadcheck

From champagne and party hats to the presents under Christmas trees, truck drivers move the freight that keeps the economy running. They do it through long days, nights, weekends, and holidays, often spending weeks away from home. As 2026 approaches, many drivers say they’re asking for one basic thing: safer roads.

That focus on safety intersects with enforcement, and it’s part of why International Roadcheck remains one of the most stressful weeks of the year for working drivers. The event is built around intensified roadside inspections, putting equipment, paperwork, and driver qualifications under a brighter spotlight.

In recent developments, federal officials have accused several states, including California, of having lax commercial driver licensing standards. Alongside those accusations, officials pushed for tougher enforcement related to immigration and English-language proficiency rules for commercial drivers.

Supporters of stricter enforcement frame it as a way to improve highway safety and strengthen compliance across the industry. For drivers, though, a sharp enforcement posture can also mean more stops, more scrutiny, and higher stress—especially during a period when inspection activity is already elevated.

The Sikh Coalition said the response has had broader consequences beyond licensing and safety, including racial profiling of Sikh truckers. Many Sikh drivers wear turbans and keep beards as part of their faith, making them more visible and, according to the coalition, more likely to face improper targeting during enforcement actions.

For professional drivers, the bigger context is a familiar balancing act: keeping standards high enough to protect the public while making sure enforcement is applied fairly and consistently. When that balance breaks down, the impacts are felt on the shoulder of the road—by drivers trying to do their job, stay legal, and get home safe.

DOT doles out $118M for enforcement, CDL issuance, more

The U.S. Department of Transportation is distributing a combined $118 million through two grant programs aimed at commercial vehicle safety enforcement and improvements to how states issue commercial driver’s licenses.

The larger share, $71.6 million, is going out through High Priority (HP) grants. These include HP-Commercial Motor Vehicle (HP-CMV) and HP-Innovative Technology Deployment (HP-ITD) funding.

According to the program descriptions, the HP grants are designed to support state and local efforts that reduce commercial motor vehicle-related crashes and strengthen compliance with safety regulations.

• Enforcement efforts focused on reducing CMV-related crashes
• Safety data improvement projects
• Public awareness campaigns
• High-visibility enforcement targeting unsafe driving on high-risk CMV crash corridors
• Initiatives to improve the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials
• Deployment of new technology intended to help ensure CMV compliance with safety rules

The remaining $43.8 million is going to Commercial Driver’s License Program Implementation (CDLPI) grants. These grants are intended to help states comply with federal CDL regulations and keep the issuance process secure, accurate, and resistant to fraud.

Another $43.8 million will be awarded for CDL program implementation grants.

For drivers, the funding touches two parts of day-to-day operations: roadside enforcement and the systems behind CDL issuance. The stated goals include better targeting of high-risk corridors, improved safety data, and more consistent and secure licensing processes across the states.

California Digs In On Non-Domiciled CDL Cancellations As Duffy Threatens $160M Funding Cut

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles has delayed a planned crackdown tied to about 17,000 non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses, pushing the deadline from Jan. 5 to March. The move has escalated into a political fight after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized the state and threatened to pull $160 million in federal highway funding.

At the center of the dispute are commercial licenses issued to drivers who are not considered domiciled in California. The state was set to begin canceling or taking action on those licenses by early January, but the DMV extended the timeline to March.

Duffy responded by accusing the governor of being dishonest about the situation, publicly calling him a liar, and warning that the federal government could withhold $160 million in highway dollars.

For professional drivers, the issue matters because it directly affects who can legally operate, what paperwork is required, and how quickly the state might take enforcement steps. A schedule change can mean uncertainty for drivers holding affected licenses and for carriers trying to keep trucks compliant and seated.

The broader context is that licensing and eligibility decisions can quickly become high-stakes when they intersect with federal transportation funding. In this case, California’s delay has become the trigger for a funding threat from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

• What changed: California moved the enforcement deadline from Jan. 5 to March.
• Who’s affected: Roughly 17,000 non-domiciled CDL holders.
• Federal response: Secretary Sean Duffy threatened a $160 million highway funding cut and publicly attacked the governor.

Sikh Coalition sues California DMV over ‘unlawful’ CDL removals

The Sikh Coalition filed a lawsuit last week in the Superior Court of California for Alameda County seeking declaratory and injunctive relief over what it describes as unlawful removals of commercial driver’s licenses in California.

The suit points to nearly 20,000 California drivers who are slated to lose their CDLs, putting their ability to work at risk.

The Sikh Coalition, a national group defending the civil rights of Sikhs, and the San Francisco-based Asian Law Caucus filed the case as a class-action lawsuit on behalf of the affected California drivers.

For drivers, the case centers on the practical impact of a CDL removal: without a valid commercial license, a driver can’t legally operate in a CDL-required job, which can immediately disrupt income, schedules, and ongoing work commitments.

The lawsuit asks the court to declare the DMV’s actions unlawful and to order relief that would stop or prevent the challenged CDL removals.

May 2026 could mark a turning point for freight, but the wait may be hard on carriers

Industry analysts are signaling that conditions in the freight market may improve as the calendar moves toward 2026. The message, however, comes with a warning: the timeline for a true reset could arrive too late for some fleets still trying to survive the freight downturn.

In an outlook tied to ongoing trends in the trucking market, C.H. Robinson said that if the current pace of net carrier exits continues, the industry could see a return to “normal” by early 2026. In practical terms, that points to a market that doesn’t rebalance overnight, but gradually stabilizes as capacity leaves and supply and demand get closer to even.

For working drivers and small carriers, why this matters is simple: when too many trucks are chasing too few loads, rates and margins stay under pressure. A “return to normal” typically means a market where freight demand and available trucks are closer to balance, giving carriers a better chance to price work sustainably and keep equipment moving without taking losses.

The outlook also notes that the path to early 2026 is not guaranteed to be smooth or straight. Temporary surges in freight demand—such as produce season—can create brief periods of stronger activity. Those short-lived boosts may reduce the pace of carrier exits for a time, which could also extend the timeline for the overall market to fully reset.

That context matters because seasonal strength can feel like a recovery at the ground level, but it may not be enough to change the broader cycle on its own. The forecast reflects a market still working through a freight recession, where stabilization depends not just on bursts of demand, but on sustained improvement and a capacity level that matches it.

The 10 Playbook Stories That Defined Trucking in 2025 — And Why They All Point to the Same Truth

Look back at trucking in 2025 and a clear pattern shows up across the year’s biggest conversations: the industry spent just as much energy sorting out misinformation and expectations as it did reacting to real operational changes. Taken together, the most-read “playbook” topics weren’t just headlines. They were lessons in what drivers and small fleets have to double-check before it hits the road.

Two themes stood out for how widely they spread and how much clarification they required: confusion around federal identification numbers and the real-world costs of artificial intelligence investments.

The story that demanded the most cleanup was the idea that FMCSA was eliminating MC numbers entirely. That claim moved fast because it touches something every carrier recognizes: the identity tied to authority, compliance, and paperwork. When a rumor hits that close to the day-to-day realities of operating, it can trigger unnecessary worry, rushed decisions, and wasted time trying to get answers.

What mattered in 2025 was not just the claim itself, but the effect it had on drivers and carriers trying to stay compliant. Regulatory chatter often turns into “it’s happening tomorrow” talk long before clear, official explanations reach the people who actually have to run under the rules. The takeaway many drivers carried into the rest of the year was simple: when it involves FMCSA systems and identifiers, clarity matters as much as the headline.

The other major thread was the unexpected way AI showed up in trucking conversations. The concern wasn’t mainly that AI would directly replace drivers overnight. Instead, the pressure showed up through budgets.

AI is affecting jobs indirectly by pushing companies to cut costs while they pour money into infrastructure. When a carrier or logistics operation commits big dollars to new technology, that spending competes with everything else: staffing, maintenance, training, pay packages, and the day-to-day support that keeps operations steady. For working drivers, the impact can show up as tighter cost controls and shifting priorities, even when the tech doesn’t actually deliver what was promised.

That context matters alongside a key data point cited during the year: an MIT study reported that 95% of projects using generative AI have failed or produced no return. Whether or not a company is sold on the technology, that statistic highlights a basic risk in 2025’s tech rush—if expensive projects don’t pay off, somebody still has to account for the money spent.

Put together, these defining stories pointed to the same truth trucking kept running into all year: information and investment decisions upstream can hit the people downstream. Whether it’s misunderstanding a federal identifier or overcommitting to a technology buildout, the practical consequences tend to land on the operations side—where drivers and small fleets live every day.

• Regulatory confusion can spread quickly and create real operational stress.
• AI impacts are often financial first, with job pressure coming from cost cutting rather than direct replacement.
• Return on investment matters, especially when large tech spending competes with driver-facing support.

Short line operator rail R.J. Corman president Goss retires

NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. — Raymond (Ray) Goss, president of the R.J. Corman Railroad Co., will retire effective Jan. 30, 2026, the company announced.

Goss is departing after a five-decade career in the rail industry, including seven years leading R.J. Corman’s short line and switching operations.

R.J. Corman’s rail business is part of a broader transportation network that includes short line railroads and switching service. For trucking and intermodal freight, short lines and switching operations often serve as the “first and last mile” on the rail side, linking local shippers to larger rail networks.

Leadership changes at operators involved in short line and switching work matter to freight markets because these rail services affect how efficiently freight can move between modes at local terminals and industrial customers.

Arkansas State Police seeking semi truck that ‘forced’ Dodge Charger off the road in hit-and-run

Arkansas State Police (ASP) is investigating a hit-and-run crash that occurred on Interstate 530 South near the 34-mile marker at approximately 11:30 a.m. on December 30, 2025, according to a media release issued Wednesday.

Troopers said the driver of an orange Dodge Charger was “forced off the roadway” by a red Peterbilt pulling a silver hopper-bottom grain trailer. ASP described the incident as a hit-and-run.

For drivers, cases like this matter because I-530 is a busy freight corridor, and conflicts between passenger vehicles and heavy trucks can escalate quickly when there isn’t enough space to merge, pass, or correct a mistake. When a crash happens and one vehicle leaves the scene, it can slow an investigation and make it harder to establish what occurred.

ASP has not released additional details about injuries, damage, or whether the truck made contact with the car, beyond stating that the Charger was forced off the road by the truck and trailer.

Trucking’s top 10 regulatory headlines of 2025

In 2025, trucking regulations were not background noise. They directly shaped day-to-day operations, safety compliance, and the freight market conditions drivers and fleets had to work through. From emissions rollbacks to aggressive action against CDL mills, the year’s biggest regulatory moves landed where it counts: equipment choices, enforcement pressure, and the cost of doing business.

The common thread was simple: when standards slip anywhere, consequences ripple everywhere. A weak link in training, compliance, or oversight doesn’t stay isolated. It shows up in insurance rates, public perception, enforcement intensity, and the level of scrutiny every truck faces on the road.

What stood out in 2025 was how quickly regulatory shifts could change the operating environment. Emissions rollbacks mattered because emissions policy influences truck specifications, maintenance planning, and long-term replacement decisions. Meanwhile, crackdowns on CDL mills mattered because licensing integrity ties straight into safety outcomes and the reputation of the industry as a whole.

These weren’t just policy debates happening far from the driver’s seat. Compliance standards affect how inspections feel at the scale, how carriers set internal rules, and how risk is priced across the board. When regulators move aggressively on training or safety-related issues, it typically increases attention on paperwork, procedures, and roadside performance—whether or not an individual driver was part of the problem that triggered the push.

There was also a reminder in the background that not every industry-changing shift arrives as a headline. Automatic transmissions didn’t draw the same attention as regulatory actions, but their impact was just as big. Technology changes like that can reshape hiring, training, and the driving experience even when they aren’t framed as regulation.

Below is a straightforward breakdown of the year’s biggest themes, reflecting the regulatory headlines that shaped 2025:

• Emissions rollbacks that affected how carriers think about equipment and long-term compliance direction.
• Stronger action against CDL mills, aimed at protecting licensing standards and safety credibility.
• Broader compliance pressure, with ripple effects felt in enforcement and public scrutiny.
• Market and operational impacts, as regulatory moves influenced costs and how fleets manage risk.

For drivers, the takeaway from 2025 was less about any single policy and more about the bigger pattern: regulatory decisions and enforcement priorities set the tone for how trucking is monitored, insured, and trusted. Even when changes start at the top, they tend to land at the scale house, the shop, and the cab.

ANA, Nippon Cargo Airlines begin to merge cargo businesses

ANA Holdings has started reorganizing its cargo-related companies as it moves forward with integrating Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA). The goal, as described by the company, is to strengthen the group’s cargo setup and support future growth after the NCA integration is completed.

A central piece of ANA’s cargo operation is ANA Cargo, the ANA Group company that handles the airline’s air-freight business. ANA previously separated its air cargo business into a standalone company in April 2014, establishing ANA Cargo as an independent unit within the group.

ANA Cargo itself is not a dedicated cargo airline. That means functions tied to freighter aircraft—such as owning, operating, and managing cargo-only planes—are handled elsewhere rather than inside ANA Cargo.

For trucking and ground logistics providers, these kinds of changes matter because air cargo reorganizations can affect how freight is booked, handed off, and coordinated at airports. As ANA consolidates and reshapes its cargo business structure following the NCA integration, drivers and carriers moving airport freight may see operational changes in who they deal with and how cargo moves through the system.

• What happened: ANA Holdings began restructuring its cargo-company system after completing the integration of NCA.
• Broader context: ANA Cargo has operated as a separate cargo business company since April 2014, while freighter aircraft operations are managed outside ANA Cargo.
• Why it matters for drivers: Shifts in cargo business structure can influence airport freight coordination and handoffs between air and ground transport.

Diesel prices ease again, down 37 cents from 2025 high as fuel costs stay in focus

The national average on-highway diesel price fell 4 cents last week, bringing the average to $3.50 per gallon. Gasoline also moved lower, down 3 cents to a national average of $2.81 per gallon.

For working drivers, a few cents either way still adds up fast. Fuel is one of the biggest weekly expenses on the road, and even small changes in the national average can affect what it costs to run a lane, how much surcharge covers, and what a load truly pays after the tank gets filled.

The latest move keeps diesel below its 2025 high mark, with prices now down 37 cents from that peak. That pullback matters most for fleets and owner-operators who buy fuel every day, because it can show up immediately in cash flow and operating cost per mile.

For broader context, the U.S. Diesel Sales Price series (FRED: GASDESW) tracks weekly diesel pricing going back to 1994-03-21 and runs through 2025-12-29 in the requested range. That long history is often used to compare today’s fuel costs with prior cycles in diesel, sales, and commodity pricing in the U.S.

• National average diesel: $3.50/gal (down 4 cents week over week)
• National average gasoline: $2.81/gal (down 3 cents week over week)
• Change from 2025 high: diesel down 37 cents

The week-to-week drop is modest, but it continues a move in a direction drivers notice immediately: cheaper fill-ups and slightly more room in the numbers when running tight margins.

CBP Agents Join CDL Enforcement Efforts in Southern California Operation

U.S. Border Patrol agents have taken a direct role in a recent enforcement effort involving commercial driver’s licenses, joining with federal investigators in a two-day operation in Southern California that resulted in the arrest of 45 immigrant drivers.

According to comments provided to Transport Topics, CBP spokesman Rick Pauza said, “U.S. Border Patrol is committed to identifying and apprehending any subjects who are in the United States illegally.”

El Centro Sector agents participated alongside agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations unit during the two-day dragnet in Ontario and Fontana, Calif. Authorities said the operation led to the arrest of 45 drivers who were holding CDLs but lacking legal residency.

For working drivers, the development matters because it signals more direct involvement by Border Patrol in enforcement actions that touch the trucking workforce, even away from the immediate border area. It also highlights that CDL status and immigration status can be examined separately in enforcement settings.

The U.S. Border Patrol is a federal law enforcement agency under U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The agency’s stated mission, as posted on its website as of 2022, is to “Protect the American people, safeguard our borders, and enhance the nation’s economic prosperity.”

Company cited for tire violations after commercial vehicle crashes into ditch, Wisconsin troopers say

A commercial vehicle went into a ditch Tuesday afternoon along Highway 63 near 770th Street in the town of Trenton, prompting a response from crews, according to the Wisconsin State Patrol (WSP).

WSP said no one was hurt in the crash. During the follow-up, troopers inspected the vehicle’s tires and reported multiple problems, including tires that were measured at less than 2/32 of an inch of tread depth on the remaining tires.

Troopers said the company was cited for the equipment violations.

For drivers and fleets, tire condition is a daily safety issue and a frequent focus of roadside inspections. Worn tread and other tire defects can reduce traction and braking performance, especially when roads are wet or temperatures change, and they can also lead to out-of-service conditions depending on what an inspection finds.

WSP did not provide additional details in the information released about the vehicle, the company, or the circumstances leading up to the crash.