Sleeper roof height also affects the tractor’s weight and the way air flows around the truck and its trailer. For a driver comparing equipment, the best choice depends partly on what happens outside the cab and partly on how the sleeper will be used after the truck is parked.

Start With the Freight Behind the Cab

The strongest argument for a mid-roof sleeper often has little to do with sleeping accommodations. It comes from the shape of the freight.

A dry van or refrigerated trailer has a tall, relatively flat front. The roof and aerodynamic fairings of a high-roof tractor can help direct air toward the top of that trailer, reducing the exposed area where the two vehicles meet.

Tanker and flatbed operations present a different arrangement. When the load sits below the height of a full-roof sleeper, the taller cab may create more aerodynamic drag than necessary. A mid-roof tractor can be a better match for those loads without giving up the ability to accommodate overnight trips.

Kenworth provided a specific example when it introduced its 76-inch mid-roof sleeper for the T680 and T880 in 2015. The company reported potential fuel economy improvements of up to 5% in tanker and flatbed applications compared with its 76-inch high-roof sleeper, depending on load conditions.

The figure is useful because it comes from a comparison of two configurations with the same nominal sleeper length. It is not a general fuel savings estimate for all mid-roof trucks, and it should not be applied to newer models without supporting test data.

A flatbed carrying tall machinery may present a very different aerodynamic profile from one carrying steel plate. Tank trailers also vary in shape and height. The roof that works well with one load may offer little advantage with another.

For drivers whose freight changes regularly, this makes the decision less straightforward. A mid-roof sleeper may suit a broad mix of lower-profile loads, while a high-roof tractor can be a sensible choice for consistent dry van or refrigerated work. Neither roof design limits a tractor to one trailer category.

A Mid-Roof Sleeper Can Still Have Standing Room

The term mid-roof suggests reduced interior height, but the actual measurements are worth examining before concluding comfort.

Kenworth’s 76-inch mid-roof sleeper provides 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom. Its layout includes a liftable lower bunk and storage towers along the sides, with room for either an optional upper bunk or additional rear-wall storage.

Volvo takes a similar approach with the VNL 840. The 74-inch mid-roof sleeper is designed for long-distance work and provides standing room inside. Its companion model, the VNL 860, has the same nominal sleeper length with a full-height roof.

The taller Volvo offers more room above the living area, but it doesn’t gain additional floor length simply because the roof is higher. This is an important distinction for drivers comparing bunk dimensions and the space available around the bed.

High-roof designs can be particularly appealing to taller occupants or anyone who prefers an open interior. Peterbilt’s Model 579 UltraLoft, for instance, offers approximately 8 feet of headroom in its 80-inch sleeper.

That is considerably more vertical clearance than the Kenworth mid-roof example, although the two models also differ in sleeper length and interior design.

The most revealing measurements are often the ones missing from a truck’s exterior description. Mattress width, usable floor space, clearance around the bunk, and cabinet placement can affect daily comfort more than the roof designation itself.

Storage May Be the Bigger Difference

A taller sleeper gives manufacturers room to install cabinets above the living area rather than relying as heavily on storage along the walls.

Peterbilt lists 70 cubic feet of storage in its 80-inch UltraLoft. The sleeper includes a tall wardrobe closet, room for a television up to 32 inches, and provisions for a microwave up to 1.1 cubic feet. An available second bunk uses a folding ladder that can be stored when it isn’t needed.

For drivers who share a truck, the ability to accommodate two sleeping areas while retaining storage space may be particularly useful. A solo driver may have different priorities, especially if the lower bunk and existing cabinets already provide enough room.

Volvo offers another example of how the layout can influence that decision. Its VNL 840 and 860 can be equipped with a pull-down bunk that converts into a dinette-style work area. Volvo also offers upper-bunk arrangements on high-roof models.

Those options show why roof height alone doesn’t determine whether a sleeper has a practical living area. The location of the refrigerator, the design of the bunk, and access to cabinets can change how the space is used.

Mid-roof sleepers are not limited to basic equipment, either. Depending on the truck, they can be fitted with refrigeration, climate controls, electrical outlets, and other features associated with long-haul living.

For anyone comparing two trucks, a floor plan or an in-person look at the sleeper will reveal more than an exterior photograph.

The Weight Difference Can Matter on Certain Loads

Kenworth’s original 76-inch mid-roof sleeper was approximately 100 pounds lighter than its corresponding high-roof version. That reduction is modest compared with the weight of a complete tractor-trailer, but it can be useful in an operation where payload capacity matters.

The value of those pounds depends on the freight. A load that regularly approaches the allowable gross vehicle weight may benefit from a lighter tractor, provided the axle-weight limits and other restrictions also permit the additional cargo.

A shipment that fills the trailer before reaching its weight limit presents a different situation. Removing 100 pounds from the tractor doesn’t necessarily allow the carrier to transport more freight.

It’s also important to compare complete truck specifications. Fuel tank capacity, wheelbase, auxiliary equipment, chassis components, and interior options can change the weight of a tractor considerably.

Kenworth’s published figure establishes a difference between two particular sleeper configurations. It doesn’t mean every mid-roof model is 100 pounds lighter than its high-roof counterpart.

What Today’s Truck Models Offer

Volvo’s current VNL lineup makes it possible to compare roof heights without changing the nominal sleeper length. Kenworth and Peterbilt provide additional examples of how manufacturers balance interior space and operating requirements.

The VNL 640 and 660 demonstrate that a shorter sleeper can be offered in either roof style. The 840 and 860 provide the same choice in a longer compartment.

Kenworth’s mid-roof design emphasizes usable sleeper space with a lower exterior profile, while Peterbilt’s UltraLoft illustrates the amount of storage and headroom available in a tall sleeper.

These are manufacturer-published configurations, not identical trucks fitted with interchangeable roofs. Features, dimensions, and availability depend on the model year and equipment selected.

Finding the Right Sleeper for the Driver and the Job

The decision becomes clearer when the truck’s usual work and the driver’s living arrangements are considered together.

A mid-roof sleeper may be well suited to an owner-operator hauling tankers, bulk freight, or lower-profile flatbed loads. If the cab has enough standing room and storage for the driver, the lower roof may offer an aerodynamic or weight advantage without sacrificing essential accommodations.

A high-roof sleeper becomes more attractive when interior space is a greater priority. The additional height can make room for larger cabinets, more clearance around an upper bunk, and a less confined living area. It may also complement the height of a full-size van or refrigerated trailer.

Drivers who spend long periods away from home have reason to pay attention to both comfort and operating characteristics. A spacious sleeper can make extended trips more comfortable, but a taller roof offers little practical benefit if the extra room goes unused and the freight would be better matched to a lower cab.

The choice also depends on who controls the equipment. Owner-operators can weigh sleeper specifications against purchase costs and the freight they intend to haul. Company drivers may use the same information when comparing available trucks or evaluating a carrier’s fleet.

Rather than treating mid-roof and high-roof sleepers as basic and premium versions of the same design, it makes more sense to consider them different configurations built around different needs.

A driver who wants generous overhead storage, an upper bunk, and maximum standing room may prefer a high roof. Someone who has sufficient space in a mid-roof sleeper and regularly pulls lower-profile freight may have little reason to carry the additional height.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are mid-roof sleepers suitable for extended trips?

Yes. Volvo’s VNL 840 is a 74-inch mid-roof sleeper designed for long routes, and Kenworth has offered a 76-inch mid-roof configuration with standing room and overnight accommodations. The interior equipment and layout determine how well an individual model suits extended travel.

Does a high-roof sleeper have a larger mattress?

Not necessarily. Roof height doesn’t establish mattress dimensions. Two sleepers may have different ceiling heights but similar lower bunks, so mattress measurements should be compared separately.

Can a mid-roof sleeper pull a 53-foot dry van?

Yes. A mid-roof tractor can pull a compatible 53-foot dry van. The lower roof may affect airflow around the trailer, but it does not by itself prevent the combination from being used.

Are high-roof sleepers better for team drivers?

They can offer advantages, particularly in upper-bunk clearance and overhead storage. However, some mid-roof sleepers also accommodate a second bunk. The specific floor plan and sleeping arrangements are more important than the roof designation alone.

Does a mid-roof sleeper always improve fuel economy?

No. Fuel efficiency depends on the tractor, trailer, load, aerodynamic equipment, and operating conditions. A mid-roof configuration may be advantageous with certain lower-profile loads, while a properly matched high-roof tractor may work better with a tall trailer.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: November 5, 2026

The post Mid-Roof vs. High-Roof Sleeper Trucks and How to Choose the Right One appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Boise Cascade, an Idaho-based building materials company, is handling the transportation. The drivers will make public appearances along the route, giving communities an opportunity to see the tree and meet the people responsible for delivering it.

The annual tradition, now in its 56th year, brings a tree from one of America’s national forests to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. This year’s spruce was harvested from the Lochsa-Powell Ranger District of Idaho’s Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

Meet the Four Drivers Behind the Delivery

Boise Cascade selected four transportation professionals with more than 100 years of combined industry experience to share the cross-country assignment.

Monte Cook, of Spokane, Washington, brings 33 years of trucking experience and nearly 3 million miles behind the wheel. He also serves in an operations leadership role at Boise Cascade.

Phil Cramer, of Laurel, Montana, is a Boise Cascade operations manager with 22 years of experience and 1.5 million safe driving miles.

Fred Holmes, of Salmon, Idaho, previously worked as a Boise Cascade driver and now serves as a product manager. His transportation career spans more than 20 years.

Tianne Larrimer, of Sugar Land, Texas, has more than 30 years of experience in logistics and transportation. Her background includes military service, heavy hauling, and flatbed operations.

Kenworth recommended Boise Cascade for the transportation assignment, citing the company’s trucking experience and ties to Idaho. The company regularly transports wood products and building materials, although this year’s delivery comes with a much different destination and schedule.

Boise Cascade CEO Jeff Strom described the trip as a special assignment for the company and praised the drivers selected to represent it at stops across the country.

A Kenworth T680 Built for the Holiday Haul

Kenworth supplied a T680 with a custom exterior wrap depicting a snow-covered river winding through Idaho’s national forests. The design reflects the 2026 tour theme, Over the River and Through the Woods.

The truck has a 76-inch sleeper and a PACCAR powertrain consisting of an MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles.

Driver-assistance equipment includes Kenworth DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, and lane-keeping assistance with torque-assisted steering.

Inside the sleeper, the truck features Kenworth’s Diamond VIT interior in charcoal, heated and cooled leather seats, a refrigerator, and a rotating work table.

The T680 will pull an extended trailer carrying the tree throughout the trip. Commemorative banners attached to the trailer will be available for visitors to sign during public tour stops.

For Kenworth, this marks another year supporting the Capitol Christmas Tree program. The manufacturer has supplied trucks for the annual delivery since 2014.

More Than 2,500 Miles and 21 Tour Destinations

The tree’s journey covers approximately 2,530 miles, according to Boise Cascade’s official tour information, with 21 destinations scheduled along the way.

Following the October 29 departure from Grangeville, the truck made appearances in Lewiston and Moscow, Idaho, before visiting Orofino and Kamiah on November 1.

The next scheduled public stop is November 3 in Lolo, Montana. The route then continues through additional Idaho and Montana communities before heading east through Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

Several upcoming stops include:

• November 3: Lolo, Montana
• November 4: Salmon, Idaho
• November 5: Craters of the Moon area and Twin Falls, Idaho
• November 9: Sheridan, Wyoming
• November 12: Mitchell, South Dakota, and Albert Lea, Minnesota
• November 13: Peoria, Illinois
• November 14: Richmond, Indiana
• November 16: Morgantown, West Virginia
• November 17: Hagerstown, Maryland, and Littlestown, Pennsylvania

The tour also includes a November 19 stop at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where access is restricted to individuals with military identification.

At public events, visitors can photograph the truck and tree, meet the drivers, and sign the trailer’s commemorative banners. The celebrations are free to attend.

The complete schedule and event details are available through the official U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website.

Follow the Truck’s Progress Across the Country

Kenworth is providing live GPS tracking for the third consecutive year, allowing the public to follow the truck as it travels toward Washington.

The tracking system uses PACCAR Connect, Kenworth’s connected vehicle platform. An interactive map is available on the Capitol Christmas Tree website, where visitors can check the truck’s location and upcoming appearances.

While the Boise Cascade team transports the tree, Alaska Airlines is helping move thousands of handmade ornaments created by Idaho residents. Those decorations will accompany the state’s contribution to the annual Capitol display.

The tree is expected to reach the West Lawn on November 20, ahead of the lighting ceremony planned for early December.

For Cook, Cramer, Holmes, and Larrimer, the assignment brings together decades of professional trucking experience and a delivery that will be followed by communities across the country. Their names will be associated with a holiday tradition that has relied on professional drivers to carry the nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree for generations.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: November 5, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Kenworth, Truckers News

The post Four Truck Drivers Begin Cross-Country Haul of 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Trucker Media Group and PodWheels announced they will launch a series of feature stories and podcast episodes covering the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving For Excellence Award, following nominees throughout the competition and sharing the stories behind their transition from military service to professional trucking.

Recognizing Veterans Entering the Trucking Industry

Launched in 2015 through a partnership between Kenworth, FASTPORT and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, the Transition Trucking: Driving For Excellence Award recognizes military veterans who have successfully transitioned into careers as professional truck drivers.

Each year, employers and CDL training providers nominate rookie veteran drivers who have demonstrated professionalism, safety, and dedication early in their trucking careers.

How the Competition Works

Nominations for the 2026 award opened earlier this year, with employers and credentialing institutions submitting candidates from across the country.

The selection process includes:

August: The “Elite 11” semifinalists are announced.
September: Finalists are selected during events in Columbus, Ohio.
December: One veteran receives the 2026 Driving For Excellence Award along with the keys to a new Kenworth T680.

The program has become one of the trucking industry’s best-known recognitions for military veterans beginning careers in commercial driving.

PodWheels and The Trucker Expand Coverage

Beginning in August and continuing through December, PodWheels plans to release approximately 20 to 25 podcast episodes featuring interviews with semifinalists, finalists, and industry leaders connected to the program.

Founder and executive producer Greg Thompson said the series is designed to let nominees share their own stories while encouraging other veterans to consider trucking as a post-military career. Thompson will also contribute feature articles to TheTrucker.com, expanding on many of the conversations featured in the podcast series.

Onsite Coverage Planned

PodWheels will also provide onsite coverage during September from the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, where the finalists will be announced, as well as activities at Kenworth’s Chillicothe, Ohio, manufacturing plant. Coverage is expected to continue through the presentation of the new Kenworth T680 to the 2026 award recipient in December.

Supporting Veteran Career Transitions

Since its launch more than a decade ago, Transition Trucking: Driving For Excellence has highlighted veterans who have successfully built careers in trucking after military service. Through expanded podcast interviews and written features, the new partnership aims to introduce more drivers and industry professionals to the award while showcasing the experiences of the veterans competing for this year’s honor.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 10, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post PodWheels and The Trucker to Spotlight 2026 Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The annual program is presented by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative. The award recognizes military veterans who have successfully moved into trucking careers following their service.

Carriers and CDL training schools can nominate up to five drivers for consideration. An expert panel of judges will select the top driver.

Who Can Be Nominated

Drivers must meet several eligibility requirements to qualify for the program. Eligible nominees must be military veterans or current or former members of the National Guard or Reserves. Drivers must also hold a valid CDL and have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school.

In addition, nominees must have been hired as CDL drivers after January 1, 2025, by a for-hire carrier or private fleet that has pledged to hire veterans.

What’s Included in the Grand Prize

The winning driver will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, which includes a PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles.

According to Kenworth, the truck also features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, heated and cooled GT703 leather seats for both the driver and passenger, a factory-installed refrigerator, a rotating work table, and space for a microwave and television.

The truck is also equipped with several driver-assistance technologies, including Kenworth Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop and Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque-Assisted Steering.

This marks the 11th consecutive year that Kenworth has supplied the grand prize vehicle for the program.

Key Dates for the 2026 Award Program

Award semi-finalists will be announced on August 5. Finalists will travel to Columbus, Ohio, where they will tour the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and attend a reception before visiting the Kenworth manufacturing plant in Chillicothe.

Public voting is scheduled to take place from November 1 through November 11. The winner will be announced in mid-December and will drive home in the Kenworth T680.

Full criteria and online nomination forms are available here.

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 24, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Kenworth

The post Nominations Open Until June 30 for Veteran Truck Driver Award Program appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Brad Bentley, Fastport president, emphasized the importance of the program: “The trucking industry continues to demonstrate its commitment to those who have served by recognizing the leadership, discipline, and focus veterans bring to the workforce. Returning to the Mid-America Trucking Show with the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award and this year’s Kenworth T680 grand prize allows us to celebrate that commitment on one of the industry’s biggest stages. It’s an incredible opportunity to spotlight veterans who are excelling behind the wheel and to encourage more service members to see trucking as a pathway to long-term success.”

The Grand Prize Kenworth T680

The 2026 award winner will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. This flagship model will be on display at the Mid-America Trucking Show, March 26–28, at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville, in the Fastport booth, #39501.

Kenworth’s T680 features the Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, full heated and cooled GT703 Ultraleather seats, and a sleeper that includes a microwave, TV, factory-installed fridge, and rotating work table. Driver assistance technologies include DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing, highlighted the program’s significance: “The Mid-America Trucking Show brings together the very best of the trucking community, making it an ideal venue to highlight the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award. For the 11th consecutive year, Kenworth is proud to support this transformative program and to once again present our flagship T680 to an outstanding veteran who represents the future of our industry.”

Supporting Veterans in Trucking

Eric Eversole, U.S. Chamber of Commerce vice president and president of Hiring Our Heroes, added: “For many veterans, trucking offers a way to continue serving with purpose, responsibility, and pride. Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence recognizes veterans who are thriving in an industry that keeps our economy moving and offers durable, long‑term careers with real opportunity. We’re honored to work alongside Fastport and Kenworth to elevate these success stories for the 11th year.”

Eligibility and Timeline

Candidates are evaluated by a panel of industry experts. To qualify, drivers must:

• Be a U.S. resident and a military veteran, National Guard, or Reserves member.
• Graduate from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
• Be employed by a for-hire carrier or private fleet that hires veterans and started driving after January 1, 2025.

Nominations open March 28, with a submission deadline of June 30. Semi-finalists will be announced on August 5, followed by a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant. Public voting on finalists occurs November 1–11. The final award will be announced in mid-December, with the winner taking home the Kenworth T680.

Full criteria and nomination forms are available on the official Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence website.

The post Kenworth Continues Support for Veteran Truckers with 2026 Transition Trucking Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The massive Red Fir, known as the “Silver Belle,” started its journey in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Nevada. From there, Porter took the wheel and guided the tree more than thirty seven hundred miles to Washington D C. It was the type of trip that reminds the country just how much trucking keeps traditions alive.

A Run Built on Pride

“It was an absolute honor to represent Knight Swift and the trucking community for this year’s U S Capitol Christmas Tree tour,” Porter said. “The holiday season is a special time of the year, so to have the opportunity to spread holiday cheer to communities all across our great country as we made our way to D C was truly an unforgettable experience.”

For the twelfth year in a row, Kenworth supported the annual tree program by supplying the truck. This year’s T680 featured a custom wrap celebrating the Spirit of the Silver State, complete with a sunset scene over Nevada’s forests.

From the Shop to the Open Road

Before earning his CDL, Porter spent his career turning wrenches as a mechanic. Seven years ago, he joined Knight Swift’s flatbed division, where he has spent most of his time handling oversized loads.

“I started my career in transportation as a mechanic, servicing cars and later heavy trucks, and realized I enjoyed driving big rigs more than I liked working in the shop,” Porter said. “I love being on the road, traveling the country, and the flexibility I have in my schedule working with Knight Swift. Truck drivers serve a pivotal role in our nation’s economy, and this tour is an excellent opportunity to highlight an important industry in trucking while kicking off the holiday season. I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Because Porter regularly hauls extended trailers, he was a strong fit for a load this long. The tree traveled on an eighty-foot Hale trailer, which took careful planning and skilled handling at every community stop.

Moving a National Icon

“From law enforcement leading the convoy to the logistical planners and all the sponsors involved, it was truly a team effort to safely make this three thousand seven hundred mile journey across the country possible,” Porter said. “I’ve never been involved in a transport with so much attention, which added a bit of pressure, but it also made the experience that much more rewarding. Everywhere we went, people were excited, waving, and taking photos. You could really feel the pride and joy this tree brought to communities along the way.”

The Kenworth T680 used for the haul included the DigitalVision Mirror system, which gave Porter clearer visibility and helped with tight turns in crowded city stops.

“The most challenging part of the tour was navigating some of the tight city roads during the tour stops, but the truck’s DigitalVision Mirrors were really helpful in giving me a full view of my surroundings,” Porter said. “It’s impressive how far truck technology has come. I drive a T680 for Knight Swift, and it’s a very driver-friendly truck that provides a comfortable ride, performs well, and looks great.”

A Holiday Memory That Will Stick

After nearly a month on the road and thousands of people coming out to see the tree along the way, Porter says the true highlight was the sense of joy the haul brought to each stop. Now that the Silver Belle is standing tall in the nation’s capital, he plans to return with his family to watch the lighting ceremony in person.

“To cap off this tour in D C with my family, who have been so supportive and thrilled for me to have this opportunity, is so surreal,” Porter said. “This holiday season is truly one for the books, and I’ll never forget the people we met and the pride everyone showed for this tradition.”

Source: The Trucker

The post Knight Swift Driver Hauls the 2025 U S Capitol Christmas Tree in a Kenworth T680 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The T680, assembled at the Chillicothe plant, stopped in on November 16 so employees could look over “The People’s Tree” before it wrapped up its trip to Washington, D.C. The truck was driven by Michael Porter, a Swift Transportation driver based out of the Phoenix terminal. He has been hauling the tree from town to town as part of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour.

This year’s tree is a red fir nicknamed “Silver Belle.” It came out of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Nevada and has made community stops across the country. The tour theme for 2025 highlights the Spirit of the Silver State.

Kenworth employees take extra pride in seeing their work roll in with a haul like this. Plant manager Doug VanZuiden said, “Our employees take great pride in assembling The World’s Best Trucks and welcoming back the T680, built right here in Chillicothe, has become a special way for our employees and their families to kick off the holiday season.”

Knight Swift was chosen as this year’s tour carrier and selected Porter to handle the run. Kenworth provided a specially wrapped T680 featuring Nevada forest artwork along with a seventy-six-inch sleeper and the full PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX 13 engine, PACCAR TX 12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX 40 tandem rear axles.

The tour also featured real-time GPS tracking using Kenworth’s TruckTech Plus connected technology. Anyone following the journey could check the tree’s location through the Kenworth Tree Tracker map.

This is the twelfth straight year a Kenworth will deliver the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. Silver Belle is scheduled to arrive on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on November 21. The annual lighting ceremony will take place in early December.

More details about the tour can be found on the official 2025 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website.

Source: Kenworth, The Trucker

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Online voting is officially open for the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, recognizing military veterans who have made an outstanding transition into professional trucking.

Voting began November 1 and runs through Veterans Day, November 11, giving the public the chance to help decide which veteran driver will take home this year’s top honor.

The award is a joint effort from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. It celebrates service members who have successfully shifted from military life to careers in commercial trucking.

You can cast your vote now at TransitionTrucking.org/vote.

Meet the 2025 Transition Trucking Finalists

Charles Jones Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Charles Jones Jr. is a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who served as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor, standards operator, and platoon sergeant, completing three combat deployments to Iraq and two rotations to South Korea.
A husband to Katrina and father to Alvin and Monica, Jones graduated from the Georgia Driving Academy in December 2024 and began his professional driving career with Roehl Transport in early 2025.

Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines

Macy Mattice served from 2010 to 2018 as an 88M motor transport operator specializing in heavy equipment transportation.
Originally from Winter Springs, Florida, she now drives flatbed for Melton Truck Lines and lives near Jacksonville with her son, Rusty.

Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport

A former staff sergeant and Patriot missile operator/maintainer, Mark Scriven spent nine years in the U.S. Army, earning multiple Army achievement medals and recognition as a combat lifesaver.
Today, he works as a driver and trainer with Stevens Transport, using his leadership experience to mentor new drivers. The father of three also welcomed a daughter in August.

Honoring Service and Skill Behind the Wheel

Each year, Transition Trucking highlights the top rookie military veterans who have made their mark in trucking. The finalists are selected through a nomination and review process, followed by a public vote that helps determine the winner.

The winner will be announced on December 12 during a ceremony at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The grand prize is a new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, featuring a 455-horsepower MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles. The runner-up will receive $10,000, and the second runner-up will take home $5,000.

This program continues to spotlight the impact veterans make in the trucking industry, bringing discipline, dedication, and leadership from the military to America’s highways.

To learn more or vote before November 11, visit TransitionTrucking.org.

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Transition Trucking

The post Vote Now: Help Choose the Next Transition Trucking Award Winner — Voting Ends Nov. 11 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The milestone transmission didn’t just head out the door quietly. It was delivered straight to Werner Enterprises, one of the earliest adopters of the Endurant and a longtime partner of Eaton Cummins. Werner has relied on the Endurant for years as part of its ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and reliability for its drivers.

The celebration took place at the Kenworth Truck Plant in Chillicothe, Ohio. At the event, a Kenworth T680 fitted with the 500,000th transmission came off the production line, where Eaton Cummins presented Werner with a commemorative plaque.

“We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Werner, a partner since the beginning of the Endurant journey,” said Josh Mejeur, regional director at Eaton Cummins. “This reflects both the strength of our partnerships and the value customers find in the Endurant platform.”

Scott Reed, senior vice president of maintenance at Werner, emphasized the company’s long relationship with Eaton: “Werner has worked with Eaton for more than 40 years, and we were proud to receive the first Endurant transmission. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to innovation and reliability for our drivers and customers.”

The Endurant family has grown significantly since its launch, now including models like the Endurant HD, Endurant HD V, Endurant HD N, Endurant XD, Endurant XD Pro, and Endurant XD N. These variants are designed to serve both highway applications and demanding vocational work.

Key features of the Endurant transmissions include a lightweight build, advanced software that improves shifting performance, and driver-friendly operation aimed at reducing fatigue and maximizing uptime.

For fleets, hitting the half-million production mark is a sign of both the product’s staying power and the industry’s ongoing shift toward technology that balances durability with driver comfort.

This report is based on information released by Eaton Cummins and Werner Enterprises.

Source: Trucking Info

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The annual campaign—now in its tenth year—is a collaboration between Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program. It’s designed to spotlight military service members who have successfully transitioned into professional driving careers.

“This year’s ‘Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence’ award semi-finalists exemplify the dedication, leadership, and commitment to service that military veterans bring to the trucking industry,” said Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing. “Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative for the tenth year, and we look forward to recognizing the distinguished semi-finalists who continue to serve our country through excellence behind the wheel.”

2025 Transition Trucking Semi-Finalists Named

The drivers selected for this year’s honor come from diverse military backgrounds and were trained by various respected institutions. The 12 semi-finalists are:

• Kathleen (Kat) Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard (E-5), Roehl Transport
• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army (E-4), Crawford Electric, a Sonepar USA Company
• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force (E-7), Van Wyk, Inc.
• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army (E-7), Melton Truck Lines
• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army (E-4), Wayne R. West Trucking
• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport
• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force (E-6) and U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises
• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army (E-5), Werner Enterprises
• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines
• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army (E-5), Prime Inc.
• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard (E-4), Prime Inc.
• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Honoring a Decade of Veteran Impact

First launched in 2016, the Transition Trucking award continues to serve as a powerful platform for uplifting veterans entering the transportation workforce. The 2025 semi-finalists will be honored at a special event on September 18 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. A visit to the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing facility will follow, where finalists will be named.

Each year, Kenworth donates a truck to the winner, and this year’s prize is a T680 featuring a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and high-end amenities like a fridge, TV space, and GT703 ultraleather heated and cooled seats.

The truck also includes cutting-edge safety features such as Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, and Lane Keeping Assist.

“The Transition Trucking award campaign continues to highlight the extraordinary impact veterans are making in the transportation industry while also inspiring a new generation of service members to explore the real economic opportunities a trucking career can provide,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes. “As we celebrate a decade of partnership with Kenworth and Fastport, we’re proud to honor these remarkable individuals whose legacy will inspire and empower the veteran drivers of tomorrow.”

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, added, “We’re honored to recognize this outstanding group of 12 semi-finalists, one of the most diverse and accomplished in the program’s history, including many participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. For 10 years, this campaign has changed lives by awarding a Kenworth truck to a deserving veteran, and this year’s finalists continue to prove that the future of our industry is in capable, committed hands.”

Finalist Selection and Public Voting

The winner of the 2025 award will be announced on December 12 during a veteran-focused celebration week. Public voting will take place online from November 1 through Veterans Day and will help inform the award’s final decision.

“This voting is an important determinant for the award’s Selection Committee, which makes the ultimate choice for the next Transition Trucking award winner,” Fastport stated.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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