The awards were presented during the NPTC Annual Education Management Conference and Exhibition in Orlando and recognized member fleets for their safety performance during 2025.

According to NPTC, the awards highlight companies that make safety a priority within their private fleet operations while achieving strong results on the road.

Awards Focus on Safety Performance

“The Fleet Safety Awards recognize NPTC member companies that work to make safety a priority in their private fleet operations,” said Kate Mirise, CTP, Chair of the NPTC Safety Committee and Central Ohio Logistics Manager for The Royal Group.

“These annual fleet safety awards in particular recognize companies with the lowest ratio of accidents per million miles for the past year.” The Fleet Safety Awards are sponsored by International Motors and Centerline Drivers.

Local Fleet Winners

The Local category includes fleets whose vehicles operate within a local delivery market regardless of fleet size.

This year’s winners were:

Target
Composites One LLC
Cohen Transport / Recycling

Regional Fleet Winners

The Regional category includes all other fleets, including long-haul operations.

The winners were:

Clinton’s Ditch Coop Co., Inc.
America’s Service Line, LLC
SWTO, LLC / SEI Fuel

Mixed Small Fleet Winners

The Mixed Small category includes fleets operating fewer than 100 vehicles.

The winners were:

RedGuard
Chobani LLC
Johnsonville Trucking LLC

Mixed Large Fleet Winners

The Mixed Large category includes fleets operating more than 100 vehicles.

The winners were:

Contract Transportation Systems / Sherwin-Williams Co.
ADM Trucking, Inc.
Vantive Healthcare

Gold Seal Winners

NPTC also recognized fleets with outstanding safety records through its Gold Seal program.

The Gold Seal is awarded to fleets with a terminal that experienced no crashes in 2024.

This year’s recipients were:

Clopay Transportation Company
Hillyard, Inc.
Interstate Batteries
Marathon Petroleum Company LP

Silver Seal Winners

The Silver Seal recognizes companies that reduced vehicle crash rates by 40% or more compared to the previous year.

Recipients included:

Marathon Petroleum Company LP
New South Express, Inc.
Pitney Bowes Inc.

Bronze Seal Winners

The Bronze Seal recognizes fleets that reduced vehicle crash rates by 20% to 39% compared to the previous year.

Recipients included:

Contract Transportation Systems / Sherwin-Williams Co.
Marathon Petroleum Company LP
New South Express, Inc.

Multiple Fleets Earned Recognition Across Categories

The awards recognized fleets for both overall safety performance and improvements in crash rates. Companies were honored across local, regional, mixed fleet, and terminal safety categories during the NPTC Annual Education Management Conference and Exhibition in Orlando.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 15, 2026

Source: Truckers News

image Source: NPTC, Truckers News

The post Private Fleets Recognized for Strong Safety Performance in Annual NPTC Awards appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The 44th annual Shell Rotella SuperRigs competition is scheduled for June 25-27 at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee. The event is open exclusively to actively working trucks and will once again allow drivers to compete for cash prizes, industry recognition, and a place in the next SuperRigs calendar. This year’s theme is “Big Rigs are the Boss.”

Working Trucks Take Center Stage

Unlike many truck shows that feature vehicles built primarily for exhibition, SuperRigs focuses on trucks that are still actively operating.

That requirement has helped the event maintain its reputation among owner-operators who take pride in keeping their equipment both productive and presentable.

Drivers will compete for more than $25,000 in cash and prizes, while also pursuing one of 12 coveted spots in the 2027 Shell Rotella SuperRigs calendar.

What Judges Will Evaluate

Judging goes beyond a truck’s appearance at first glance.

According to event organizers, trucks will be evaluated on several factors, including:

Exterior appearance
Design
Finish quality
Originality
Attention to detail
Workmanship

Awards Include Best of Show and Specialty Categories

Several awards will be presented throughout the event.

Among the featured categories are:

Best of Show
Best Chrome
Best Lights

Additional specialty awards will also be presented during the competition.

Because the event attracts a wide variety of trucks and operations, multiple categories allow drivers to compete in different areas of recognition.

Shell Rotella Highlights the Drivers Behind the Trucks

“Shell Rotella SuperRigs has always been about more than impressive, hard-working trucks. It is about honoring the people behind the wheel and the pride they put into every mile,” said Julie Wright, Shell Rotella Brand Manager.

“We are thrilled to bring the 44th annual competition to Bristol Motor Speedway, a venue known for passion, performance, and unforgettable moments, while celebrating the drivers who help keep our world moving.”

More Than Competition

In addition to truck judging, SuperRigs will feature entertainment, fireworks, family activities, and the event’s popular Best Lights competition. The competition is free to enter, and spectators can attend at no cost.

Those activities have helped make SuperRigs a destination event for drivers, families, and trucking enthusiasts each year.

Virtual Voting Supports the St Christopher Truckers Relief Fund

Drivers and fans who cannot attend in person still have an opportunity to participate through the Virtual People’s Choice Award.

For every vote submitted, Shell Rotella will donate $10 to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.

Voting remains open through 5 p.m. Central Time on June 26, allowing supporters to recognize their favorite trucks while helping generate donations for drivers in need.

Bristol Prepares for Another Year of SuperRigs

With more than $25,000 in cash prizes, 12 spots in the 2027 SuperRigs calendar, and multiple award categories up for grabs, competitors will head to Bristol Motor Speedway later this month for one of the trucking industry’s most recognized annual events.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 15, 2026

Source: Overdrive

image Source: Overdrive, Kevin Hunter

The post Shell Rotella SuperRigs Brings Working Trucks to Bristol June 25-27 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Despite serving many of the same applications, these trucks have developed very different identities within the industry.

The Cascadia has become one of the most common fleet trucks on the road, while the VNL has built a reputation around driver comfort and ergonomics. Those differences often influence how drivers evaluate each truck and explain why the comparison remains one of the most discussed in trucking.

Why These Trucks Are Compared So Often

The Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL compete directly in one of the largest segments of the trucking industry.

Many fleets evaluate both trucks when purchasing equipment. Drivers who frequently change companies move from one model to the other. Owner-operators also compare them when looking for a truck capable of handling highway freight while providing a comfortable work environment.

Unlike comparisons between trucks designed for different jobs, the Cascadia and VNL often compete for the same routes, freight, and drivers. That direct competition is what keeps the comparison relevant year after year.

Why The Freightliner Cascadia Became So Popular

Few trucks have achieved the level of fleet adoption seen by the Freightliner Cascadia. One reason is availability. Freightliner maintains one of the largest dealer and service networks in North America, making support easier for fleets operating across multiple states.

The Cascadia also became known for providing a consistent driving experience. Drivers moving between fleet trucks often find the layout familiar, which can reduce the adjustment period when switching equipment.

As a result, many drivers spend at least part of their careers operating a Cascadia, even if it is not their preferred truck.

That widespread adoption helped establish Cascadia as one of the industry’s benchmark highway tractors.

Why The Volvo VNL Built a Loyal Following

The Volvo VNL followed a different path. Rather than becoming known primarily through fleet volume, the VNL gained attention for the driver experience.

Volvo has long emphasized ergonomics and workspace design. Drivers frequently mention the seating position, steering wheel adjustment range, and overall cab environment when discussing the truck.

Because drivers spend thousands of hours behind the wheel each year, comfort can become a major factor in long-term satisfaction.

That emphasis on the driver experience helped the VNL develop a loyal following throughout the industry.

How The Driving Position Compares

One of the first differences many drivers notice involves the seating position. The Cascadia offers a familiar and straightforward driving environment. Most controls are positioned for easy access, and drivers transitioning from other fleet trucks often adapt quickly.

The Volvo VNL takes a more ergonomic approach. The seating position, dashboard design, and steering wheel adjustments are intended to help reduce fatigue during long workdays.

While both trucks provide comfortable driving environments, drivers often have strong opinions about which seating position feels more natural after extended time on the road.

Visibility Differences Between the Cascadia and VNL

Visibility affects nearly every aspect of truck operation. Backing into docks, navigating traffic, changing lanes, and maneuvering through customer locations all depend on what a driver can see from the cab.

Both trucks provide strong visibility compared to older truck designs, but the Volvo VNL is often praised for its sightlines and driver’s field of view.

Drivers switching between the two models frequently mention visibility as one of the most noticeable differences during the first few weeks behind the wheel.

For many drivers, confidence in traffic starts with visibility, making this one of the most important comparison points.

How the Interior Design Philosophy Differs

The Cascadia and VNL approach interior design differently. Freightliner focuses heavily on practicality and ease of use. Controls are organized in a way that many drivers find familiar, particularly those with fleet driving experience.

Volvo places greater emphasis on creating a driver-centered workspace. Storage locations, dashboard layout, and control placement are designed around how drivers interact with the truck throughout the day. Neither approach is inherently better.

The preference often comes down to whether a driver values familiarity and simplicity or a workspace designed around ergonomic principles.

How Sleeper Areas Compare for Long Haul Drivers

Long-haul drivers spend enough time in a truck that sleeper design becomes an important consideration. Storage accessibility, organization, and day-to-day usability can influence how comfortable life on the road feels over time.

The Cascadia has proven itself in long-haul operations through widespread adoption and years of use across major fleets. The Volvo VNL often earns praise from drivers who prioritize comfort during extended trips.

Because the truck serves as both a workplace and a temporary living space, long-haul drivers often evaluate sleeper functionality differently than regional drivers.

How Technology Shapes the Driver Experience

Technology now plays a larger role in truck design than it did a decade ago. Both the Cascadia and VNL offer advanced safety systems, driver-assistance technology, digital displays, and telematics capabilities depending on model year and specification.

The difference is often not the technology itself but how drivers interact with it. The Cascadia generally emphasizes straightforward operation and familiarity. Volvo tends to focus on integrating technology into the overall driving environment. Both approaches can be effective, but drivers often prefer one style over the other.

What Owner Operators Often Consider

Owner-operators frequently evaluate trucks differently from fleets. A fleet may focus on standardization, maintenance planning, and operating costs across hundreds of trucks.

Owner-operators often place greater emphasis on comfort, daily satisfaction, and how the truck fits their personal style of operation.

For that reason, owner-operator purchasing decisions are often influenced by factors that extend beyond specifications alone.

A truck that feels better after several years of ownership can become a better investment even if another truck offers similar capabilities.

Similarities That Keep the Competition Close

The Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL remain close competitors because they share many strengths.

Both trucks:

• Support regional and long-haul freight operations
• Offer modern safety technology
• Provide multiple sleeper configurations
• Benefit from extensive service networks
• Continue receiving updates focused on efficiency and driver experience

If the trucks were dramatically different, the decision would be easier.

Instead, both have proven themselves capable of handling modern freight operations, leaving drivers and fleets to evaluate which approach best fits their needs.

How To Choose Between the Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL

The best truck depends on the priorities of the driver and operation. Drivers who value familiarity, widespread fleet support, and a straightforward driving environment often appreciate the Freightliner Cascadia.

Drivers who prioritize ergonomics, visibility, and overall comfort frequently gravitate toward the Volvo VNL. Neither truck has established a clear advantage across every category.

That is why the comparison continues. Both models succeed because they meet the demands of modern trucking while approaching the driver experience in different ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the Freightliner Cascadia and the Volvo VNL?

Many drivers point to ergonomics and driver comfort. The Cascadia is often associated with familiarity and practicality, while the VNL is frequently associated with comfort and workspace design.

Which truck is more common in large fleets?

The Freightliner Cascadia is one of the most widely used fleet trucks in North America.

Is the Volvo VNL known for driver comfort?

Yes. Driver comfort and ergonomics are among the qualities most commonly associated with the Volvo VNL.

Are both trucks used for long-haul freight?

Yes. Both models are widely used in long-haul and regional freight operations.

Do both trucks offer advanced safety technology?

Yes. Both trucks can be equipped with modern safety and driver-assistance systems, depending on specification and model year.

Which truck is better for drivers?

The answer depends on personal preference. Some drivers prefer the familiarity of the Cascadia, while others prefer the ergonomics and comfort of the Volvo VNL.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

The post Freightliner Cascadia Vs Volvo VNL: Full Comparison Guide for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The reason certain highways stay busy has less to do with where people live and more to do with how freight moves.

Long before a load reaches a receiver, it passes through a network of ports, rail terminals, warehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and transportation hubs. The highways connecting those locations eventually become the roads that carry the largest share of truck traffic. That is why many of the busiest highways in the US are also major freight corridors.

Freight Does Not Always Follow Population

A common assumption is that highways become freight corridors because they connect large cities. While population plays a role, it does not tell the whole story.

Consider Interstate 80. The route crosses large stretches of Nebraska, Wyoming, and Iowa. While it serves major markets at both ends, much of its importance comes from its ability to move freight efficiently across the country.

A shipment moving from California to Pennsylvania does not need to stop in every city along the way. It needs a reliable route connecting major freight markets from one region to another. That is exactly what corridors like I-80 provide.

Why Interstate 35 Became A Freight Powerhouse

Interstate 35 offers another example of how freight shapes highway importance. The route runs from the Mexican border through Texas and into the central United States.

As trade between the United States and Mexico expanded, I-35 became one of the most important transportation links for moving freight north and south. Products crossing the border can move through distribution centers in Texas before continuing toward markets throughout the Midwest and beyond.

That constant flow of freight helps explain why commercial traffic remains heavy on large portions of the corridor throughout the year. For many carriers, I-35 is less about connecting cities and more about connecting economies.

The Highways That Connect Freight Usually Stay Busy Around the Clock

Commuter traffic tends to follow a schedule, but freight does not. Distribution centers load trailers overnight. Manufacturers receive materials throughout the day. Agricultural products move during harvest seasons. Retail freight moves whenever inventory needs to be replenished.

As a result, major freight corridors often remain active long after rush hour traffic disappears. Drivers traveling I-80, I-40, I-35, or I-95 late at night have seen this firsthand. Passenger traffic may thin out, but commercial traffic often continues moving.

That is one of the clearest signs that a highway functions as a freight corridor rather than simply a commuter route.

Ports Create Freight Corridors Far Beyond the Coast

Many of the busiest highways in the US owe part of their importance to freight arriving through ports. A container unloaded in Los Angeles may eventually end up in Chicago. Cargo arriving in Savannah may be headed for Tennessee, Ohio, or Missouri. The journey between the port and the final destination often depends on interstate highways.

Routes such as I-10, I-95, and I-5 serve as important links between coastal ports and inland freight markets. As import volumes increase, truck traffic often increases on those corridors as well.

The effects are not limited to coastal areas. Freight entering through a port can influence traffic patterns hundreds or even thousands of miles inland.

Rail Hubs Help Create Freight Hotspots

Another reason some highways attract large amounts of truck traffic is their proximity to major rail facilities. Freight frequently moves between trucks and trains before continuing to its final destination.

Because of that, intermodal facilities are often located near interstate highways that provide easy access to regional markets.

Over time, warehouses, transportation companies, and distribution operations tend to cluster around those facilities.

What begins as a rail hub often develops into a larger logistics market that generates truck traffic throughout the day. Many of the country’s busiest freight corridors pass directly through these regions.

What Freight Corridors Reveal About Freight Markets

Understanding these patterns can help explain where freight opportunities tend to remain strongest. A highway carrying large freight volumes usually connects multiple parts of the supply chain. Manufacturers, warehouses, ports, retailers, and transportation hubs all rely on those routes.

That concentration of economic activity is one reason freight markets often develop around major interstate corridors. While freight demand rises and falls, the routes connecting major logistics networks tend to remain important because the underlying infrastructure continues supporting freight movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the busiest highways in the US for truck traffic?

Interstates such as I-80, I-35, I-95, I-10, I-40, and I-5 are widely recognized as major freight corridors because they connect important freight markets, ports, manufacturing regions, and distribution hubs.

Why is Interstate 35 important for freight?

Interstate 35 serves as a major north-south trade corridor connecting freight moving between Mexico and the United States.

Why does Interstate 80 carry so much commercial traffic?

Interstate 80 provides a direct east-west connection between major freight markets and supports long-haul freight movement across multiple regions.

How do ports influence highway traffic?

Freight arriving through ports must be transported inland, often using interstate highways that connect ports with warehouses, distribution centers, and consumer markets.

Why are rail hubs important to truck drivers?

Many rail facilities include intermodal operations where freight transfers between trains and trucks, creating additional freight activity in surrounding areas.

How can understanding freight corridors help truck drivers?

Understanding freight corridors can help drivers better understand freight markets, anticipate traffic patterns, and identify regions where freight demand tends to remain strong.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

The post Why The Busiest Highways in the US Are Also Major Freight Corridors appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The tournament got underway on June 11 and will continue through July 19, bringing matches to 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While sporting events regularly generate traffic around stadiums, transportation analysts believe some host cities could experience broader congestion issues that extend beyond game-day traffic.

A recent study from telematics company Geotab suggests the biggest concern may not be how busy a city normally is, but how well it handles sudden spikes in activity.

Not Every Host City Responds the Same Way to Large Events

Ahead of the tournament, Geotab reviewed billions of vehicle data points collected during June and July 2025. The analysis examined how host-city transportation networks performed during periods that included major concerts, sporting events, and other large public gatherings.

Rather than looking only at traffic volume, the company evaluated how quickly road networks recovered after demand increased. That measurement, referred to as resilience, became one of the most important indicators in the study.

A city with heavy daily congestion may still perform relatively well during a major event if traffic conditions return to normal quickly. A city with weaker resilience can experience lingering transportation disruptions long after crowds arrive.

Several Cities Ranked Near the Bottom of the Study

Ten of the sixteen host cities received preparedness scores below 7 out of 10. Foxborough, Massachusetts, which will host matches in the Boston area, earned the highest overall score at 8.01.

Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Toronto landed at the bottom of the rankings, each scoring below 5.

The report also highlighted Los Angeles and Atlanta for particularly poor resilience scores based on how transportation networks responded to large events during the summer of 2025. According to Geotab’s findings, both cities struggled to absorb increased demand without significant traffic disruptions.

For freight carriers and owner-operators, those markets could become more challenging as tournament attendance increases throughout the coming weeks.

Why The Findings Matter for Truck Drivers

Traffic delays around a stadium are rarely the biggest concern for commercial vehicles. The larger issue is how event-related traffic affects surrounding highways, local routes, delivery schedules, and freight movement throughout an entire metropolitan area.

Geotab weighted traffic conditions around stadium locations heavily in its rankings but also included data from the broader metro regions surrounding each venue.

That wider approach provides a better picture of how transportation networks may perform once hundreds of thousands of visitors begin moving through host cities.

Extra Planning Could Help Avoid Delays

Mike Branch, Geotab’s vice president of data and analytics, said resilience scores may provide a useful indicator of how cities will perform during the tournament.

According to Branch, cities with stronger resilience ratings are generally better equipped to handle temporary surges in activity. Areas with lower resilience scores may require additional planning as transportation demand increases.

For truck drivers, that could mean building extra time into schedules, monitoring traffic conditions more closely, and evaluating alternate routes when operating near host markets on match days.

Tournament Continues Through July 19

Matches are scheduled almost daily through July 19, when the championship match will be played in the New York City metropolitan area.

With events taking place throughout North America for more than a month, freight traffic moving through host markets could encounter periodic slowdowns as cities manage increased visitor activity alongside normal transportation demands.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Source: Overdrive

The post World Cup Crowds Could Slow Freight Traffic in Several Major Markets Through July appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The annual event, organized by the Nebraska Trucking Association, brought together professional drivers from across the state to compete in written testing, pre-trip inspections, driving skills, and vehicle class competitions. The championships also determine which drivers will represent Nebraska at the American Trucking Associations National Truck Driving Championships later this summer.

FedEx Freight and Walmart Transportation Drivers Earn Top Awards

In addition to Badgett’s Grand Champion title, several competitors received special awards recognizing outstanding performance throughout the event.

Logan Booker of Walmart Transportation, LLC earned Rookie of the Year honors after posting the highest overall score among first-time competitors.

Todd Gimpel of FedEx Freight claimed the Professional Excellence Award for the second consecutive year. The award is presented to the driver with the highest score on the written examination.

Garet Poland of Walmart Transportation received the Bucky Buchholtz Top Driver Award for achieving the highest score on the driving course. The award is named in honor of the late Bucky Buchholtz, a former Nebraska State Patrol trooper and longtime championships committee member.

Booker also earned the Kurt Everett Vehicle Condition Award for recording the highest score during the pre-trip inspection portion of the competition.

Joseph Busch of ABF Freight Systems, Inc. received the Jerry Wessel Award, which recognizes professionalism, industry knowledge, and attitude demonstrated throughout the championships. The award is open to drivers and volunteers who have participated in the event for at least five years.

Class Champions Secure Spots at National Competition

Nine class champions earned the opportunity to represent Nebraska at the National Truck Driving Championships scheduled for August 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

Class winners included:

• Straight Truck: Clinton Rast of Omaha, Nebraska, ABF Freight Systems, Inc.
• Three Axle: Garet Poland of Kenesaw, Nebraska, Walmart Transportation
• Four Axle: Todd Gimpel of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Five Axle: Tom Canning of Bellevue, Nebraska, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Five Axle Sleeper: John Putney of Blanchard, Oklahoma, Greater Omaha Express
• Tank Truck: Tim Dean of Griswold, Iowa, Werner Enterprises
• Flatbed: George Chaney of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Twin Trailer: Paul Badgett of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Mixer Truck: Jacob Friederich of Papillion, Nebraska, Lyman-Richey Corporation
• Step Van: Korey Clifton of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, FedEx Express

Old Dominion Freight Line earned the team championship.

Friederich will also advance to the National Mixer Driver Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Nashville this October.

Inspector Competition Held Alongside Driver Championships

The Nebraska State Patrol Inspector Championships were conducted alongside the truck driving competition.

Inspectors competed in a series of evaluations that included personal interviews, hazardous materials exercises, and hands-on inspection challenges designed to test professional knowledge and technical skills.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Nebraska Trucking Association

The post Paul Badgett Earns Grand Champion Title at Nebraska Truck Driving Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A recruiter may discuss pay, home time, equipment, and orientation dates early in the process. Those conversations are important, but they should not be the only information a driver relies on before resigning.

Taking the time to verify a few key details can help prevent delays, confusion, and unexpected gaps between jobs.

Make Sure You Understand the Position Being Offered

Before evaluating pay or scheduling details, confirm exactly which position is being offered.

Some carriers hire for multiple divisions, customer accounts, and operating regions at the same time. A driver may initially inquire about one opening but later be considered for another.

Ask questions such as:

• Is the position local, regional, dedicated, or over the road?
• What type of freight will be hauled?
• Which states or regions will be covered?
• Is the position connected to a specific customer account?
• What home schedule applies to this role?

Understanding these details helps establish whether the opportunity matches your expectations before moving further into the process.

Review The Entire Compensation Package

A higher mileage rate does not always mean a better overall job. Before leaving a current employer, ask for written information that outlines the full compensation package.

Review:

Mileage rate or salary structure

• Stop pay
• Detention pay
• Layover pay
• Breakdown pay
• Orientation pay
• Bonus programs
• Reimbursement policies

Written information provides a clear reference and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings later.

Find Out Whether Anything Could Delay Your Start

One of the most valuable questions a driver can ask is whether any remaining steps could affect onboarding.

Rather than assuming everything is complete, ask:

• Has the position been approved?
• Is my place in orientation secured?
• Are there any remaining conditions attached to the offer?
• Is additional documentation needed?
• Could anything delay my ability to start work?

These questions often provide a better picture of where the hiring process stands than a simple verbal job offer.

Verify That Hiring Requirements Are Complete

Many carriers cannot move a driver into orientation until required reviews have been completed.

Before resigning, verify the status of:

• Motor vehicle record reviews
• Employment verification
• Drug testing requirements
• Background screening requirements
• Other company-specific hiring requirements

If any of these items remain outstanding, onboarding timelines may change.

Confirm Orientation Plans

Orientation often marks the final step before beginning work, so drivers should know exactly what to expect.

Verify:

• Orientation location
• Orientation date
• Travel arrangements
• Hotel accommodations, if provided
• Required documents
• Length of orientation

Having these details confirmed helps reduce last-minute issues and allows drivers to plan accordingly.

Wait For a Confirmed Start Date

Many drivers hear an estimated timeline during recruiting and mistakenly treat it as a finalized start date.

Before giving notice, make sure:

• Orientation is scheduled
• Hiring reviews have been completed
• The company considers you cleared to begin employment
• A specific start date has been assigned

A confirmed start date provides much more certainty than a projected timeline.

Know When It Makes Sense to Give Notice

Every situation is different, but many drivers wait until the position is approved, hiring requirements are complete, orientation details are finalized, and a start date has been assigned before leaving their current employer.

A little patience during the final stages of hiring can help avoid unnecessary complications and create a smoother transition to the next job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a trucking company make a conditional job offer?

Yes. Some job offers remain dependent on background checks, drug testing results, employment verification, or other hiring requirements.

Why should compensation details be requested in writing?

Written information creates a clear record of the pay package and helps prevent misunderstandings about compensation.

Should a driver resign after receiving a verbal offer?

Many drivers choose to wait until hiring requirements have been completed and a start date has been confirmed.

What happens if a background check delays the hiring process?

A delay in any required review can affect orientation schedules and onboarding timelines. Drivers should ask whether any requirements are still pending before giving notice.

What is the difference between a projected start date and a confirmed start date?

A projected start date is an estimate. A confirmed start date has been officially assigned after the necessary hiring steps have been completed.

What should drivers verify before leaving their current employer?

Drivers should understand the position being offered, review the compensation package, verify hiring requirements, confirm orientation details, and have a confirmed start date before resigning.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 11, 2026

The post How To Verify A CDL Job Offer Before Leaving Your Current Employer appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Layover pay is usually tied to a specific problem: the driver is ready for the next assignment, but the next assignment is not ready for the driver.

Because every mile matters when earnings are largely based on movement, understanding how layover pay works can help drivers compare employers, evaluate job offers, and avoid misunderstandings when freight slows down.

What Creates a Layover

A layover generally happens after a driver completes a load but cannot move on to another one because freight is unavailable or scheduling delays prevent the next assignment from being dispatched.

For example, a driver may deliver on Monday afternoon, expecting to pick up another load that evening. If the freight is delayed until the following day, the truck sits even though the driver remains available to work. That downtime is where layover pay may come into play.

The important detail is that the delay is usually connected to freight availability, dispatch scheduling, or customer-related issues rather than a decision made by the driver.

Why Drivers Are Often Surprised by Layover Policies

Many new drivers assume compensation starts the moment a truck stops moving. In reality, most carriers build a waiting period into their policy.

Some companies require a full 24-hour delay before layover pay begins. Others use different qualification periods based on their operation. A driver could spend part of a day waiting and still not qualify if the delay does not exceed the company’s minimum threshold. That is why two companies offering similar mileage rates may handle downtime very differently.

Before accepting a position, drivers should ask when layover pay starts rather than focusing only on the amount paid.

Layover Pay and Detention Pay Are Not the Same Thing

The easiest way to separate the two is to look at where the delay occurs. Detention pay is commonly associated with time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond the carrier’s allowed free time.

Layover pay generally begins after that assignment has ended and the driver is waiting for the next load opportunity.

A driver sitting at a distribution center for several extra hours may be dealing with detention. A driver who has already delivered and is waiting until tomorrow for another dispatch may be dealing with a layover.

Understanding the distinction can help drivers review settlement statements and make sure delays are being classified correctly.

What Drivers Should Look for in a Layover Policy

Not all layover policies provide the same value.

When reviewing a job opportunity, drivers should look beyond whether layover pay exists and focus on how the policy actually works.

Important questions include:

• How long is the waiting period before compensation starts?
• Is layover pay a flat amount or does it vary?
• Does the policy apply every day of the week?
• Are there situations where a driver can be waiting but still not qualify?
• How often do drivers in that division receive layover pay?

The answers can reveal more about a company’s freight network than a recruiting advertisement ever will.

Why Layover Pay Matters When Comparing CDL Jobs

A carrier with strong freight consistency may rarely need to pay layover compensation because drivers stay moving.

Another company may advertise layover pay frequently because delays occur more often throughout its network.

That does not automatically make one company better than the other, but it does show why drivers should evaluate the complete compensation package rather than focusing on cents per mile alone.

Pay, freight availability, home time, detention policies, and layover compensation all contribute to what a driver actually earns over the course of a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does layover pay start immediately when a truck stops moving?

Usually not. Most carriers require a waiting period before layover compensation begins.

Can a driver receive detention pay and layover pay on the same trip?

Yes. A driver may experience detention at a customer location and later qualify for layover pay if another load is not available after delivery.

Is layover pay required by federal law?

No. Layover pay policies are established by individual carriers and can vary significantly.

Why do some drivers rarely receive layover pay?

Drivers operating in freight networks with consistent load availability may move from one assignment to the next without experiencing qualifying delays.

Should layover pay be discussed during the hiring process?

Yes. Understanding when compensation begins and how the policy works can help drivers compare opportunities more accurately.

Is a higher layover pay rate always better?

Not necessarily. Freight consistency often has a bigger impact on annual earnings than the layover rate itself.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 11, 2026

The post When Do Truck Drivers Qualify for Layover Pay and How Does It Work appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The recalls, reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, involve a wheel-related issue that could allow a wheel to separate from the truck if the problem is not corrected.

Volvo Trucks Included in Recall

Volvo Trucks is recalling certain 2026 VAH trucks, 2026-2027 VN, VHD, and VNL (4) models, along with certain 2027 VNR (4) trucks. According to the recall notice, wheel lug nuts may loosen, creating the possibility of wheel separation.

Volvo is advising owners not to operate affected vehicles until repairs have been completed.

Dealers will inspect wheel and hub mating surfaces, remove masking material, and replace worn components when necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is identified as RVXX2606. Volvo Trucks customer service can be reached at 800-528-6586.

Mack Trucks Also Affected

Mack issued a nearly identical recall involving certain 2026 Anthem (AN) trucks, 2026-2027 Pioneer PR (4), Pinnacle (PI/PN), and Granite (GR) models, along with certain 2027 Anthem AN (4) trucks.

The issue again involves wheel lug nuts that may loosen over time. Mack is also instructing owners not to drive affected trucks until repairs have been completed.

Dealers will inspect wheel and hub mating surfaces, remove masking material, and replace worn components if needed. The repairs will be completed at no charge. The Mack recall number is SC0495. Owners can contact Mack customer service at 1-800-866-1177.

Owners Can Check VINs Online

NHTSA said vehicle identification numbers tied to both recalls can be searched through the agency’s recall database. Drivers and fleet owners who operate affected Volvo or Mack models can verify whether a truck is included in the recall before scheduling repairs.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 11, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Do Not Drive Warnings Issued for Certain Volvo and Mack Trucks appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The State of Freight: Key Issues in Transportation webinar will examine economic conditions, geopolitical developments, carrier capacity, freight rates, and supply chain trends as the industry moves through the second half of 2026.

Carrier Conditions Become A Key Topic

A major focus of the webinar will be the improvement in carrier conditions seen during the first half of the year. FTR CEO Jonathan Starks said the change has created new questions about where the freight market may be headed next.

“While tariff pressures have eased in 2026, the situation remains fluid, and geopolitical risks, such as the Iran conflict, are creating ripple effects across energy and chemicals markets,” Starks said. “At the same time, carrier conditions have improved rapidly, raising a pivotal question for the months ahead: Will capacity constraints continue to define truck rates, or are we entering a new phase of the freight cycle?”

The webinar will explore that question and examine the market forces currently affecting transportation planning.

Tariffs And Inflation Remain in Focus

While tariff pressures have moderated compared to previous years, FTR said policy adjustments continue influencing inflation expectations, business confidence, and shipping decisions.

Those issues remain part of the freight outlook as transportation companies evaluate market conditions for the remainder of 2026.

Energy Markets and Global Events Will Be Discussed

FTR also plans to address geopolitical developments affecting transportation. According to the company, the conflict involving Iran has not directly disrupted domestic freight markets beyond fuel costs. However, uncertainty remains regarding possible effects across energy and chemical supply chains.

Discussion Will Extend Beyond Trucking

In addition to trucking, the webinar will examine developments affecting rail transportation, intermodal activity, and broader supply chain planning.

FTR said analysts will review the factors currently influencing transportation across multiple sectors.

Event Information

The webinar is scheduled for July 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. EDT.

Attendance is complimentary. According to FTR, the event is intended for transportation executives, supply chain leaders, logistics professionals, shippers, carriers, brokers, equipment manufacturers, and others involved in transportation planning and budgeting.

Registration is available through FTR’s website.

The company said participants will receive market intelligence and economic insight designed to help them better understand emerging risks and opportunities in today’s transportation environment.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 11, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post FTR To Host Free Webinar on Key Transportation Issues In 2026 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.