The Greensboro and Raleigh service centers both opened in October 1980, with Greensboro serving as Southeastern’s tenth service center and Raleigh as its eleventh. Five years later, in October 1985, the company extended its reach to the coast, opening its 20th service center in Wilmington.

Each location has grown tremendously over the decades:

The Greensboro service center started with 57 dock doors and nine associates and has expanded to 97 dock doors and 183 associates. Raleigh began with 20 dock doors and 23 associates and now operates with 148 dock doors and 115 associates. Wilmington initially opened with six dock doors and five associates before relocating in 1986 to a larger facility with 22 dock doors; it now has 41 dock doors and 29 associates.

“Four decades of service is a tremendous milestone for our teams in Greensboro, Raleigh, and Wilmington,” said Matt Bowen, regional vice president of operations at Southeastern Freight Lines. “Our associates are the core of what we do, and these anniversaries highlight their commitment to delivering outstanding service. We’re proud to serve these North Carolina communities and thankful for the loyal support of our customers.”

To honor this anniversary, Southeastern Freight Lines is recognizing nine longtime associates who have dedicated decades to keeping freight moving across North Carolina:

• 43 years of service: Pickup and Delivery Driver John Foil, Raleigh; Linehaul Driver Jay Hobbs, Greensboro
• 42 years of service: Fleet Services Technician Russ Myers, Greensboro; Linehaul Driver Paul Browning, Greensboro (Retired)
• 41 years of service: Linehaul Driver Melvin Smith, Raleigh
• 40 years of service: Safety Specialist Jackie Mabe, Greensboro
• 37 years of service: Pickup and Delivery Driver Nelson Gurganus, Wilmington; Linehaul Driver Scott Chalmers, Raleigh; Linehaul Driver Phil Morris, Raleigh

“As we look to the future, we remain committed to investing in our people, strengthening customer relationships and continuing to deliver the reliable, quality service our North Carolina communities have come to expect,” Bowen said.

Southeastern Freight Lines’ milestone is a reminder to truck drivers and industry professionals that dedication, community focus, and a strong team culture are what keep regional freight moving efficiently, year after year.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Southeastern Freight Lines

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For the first time, the awards coincided with National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, a deliberate choice to highlight not only the honored carriers but the dedication of drivers who keep freight moving every day.

In 2024 alone, the winning carriers collectively handled nearly 2 million loads for C.H. Robinson, demonstrating the scale of their contribution to the supply chain. The honorees range from small, single-truck operations to fleets operating thousands of vehicles, showing excellence at every level of the industry.

“These carriers exemplify the best in the industry,” said Michael Castagnetto, president of North American Surface Transportation at C.H. Robinson. “But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I also want to recognize the 360 other COYA nominees and the entirety of our 450,000+ carrier network. They help us and our customers succeed every day. We are proud to honor them for another year of exceptional achievements.”

Celebrations in Minnesota

Representatives from the winning carriers,  including drivers, managers, and company leadership, joined in on festivities hosted by C.H. Robinson. Events included a Minnesota Twins game, where winners received customized “Carrier of the Year” jerseys, along with a special visit to the company’s Eden Prairie, Minnesota, headquarters.

Full List of 2025 C.H. Robinson Carrier of the Year Winners

• 1 Truck: Jato Express, Channahon, Illinois
• 2–10 Trucks: IB & DB Trucking, Avondale, Arizona
• 11–19 Trucks: GARESP Transportation Solution, Phoenix
• 11–19 Trucks: ABR Transport, St. Paul, Minnesota
• 20–74 Trucks: MEB Express, Miami, Florida
• 75–199 Trucks: Timmons Transit, Jonesboro, Arkansas
• 75–199 Trucks: Bettaway Beverage Distributors, South Plainfield, New Jersey
• 200–999 Trucks: JIT EX, Memphis, Tennessee
• 200–999 Trucks: Trucks For You, Muskogee, Oklahoma
• 1000+ Trucks: Super Ego, Chicago, Illinois
• Canada: Load King Transport, Vaughan, Ontario
• Marine Drayage: Whimsy Mt., Prospect, Illinois
• Flatbed: E&R Transportation, Mendota, California
• Intermodal: Genesis Intermodal Services, San Antonio, Texas
• LTL: Southeastern Freight Lines, Lexington, South Carolina
• LTL: Estes Express Lines, Richmond, Virginia
• LTL: XPO Logistics Freight, Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Mexico: Transportes de Carga Fema, Laredo, Texas
• Specialized Heavy Haul: KD Specialized, Irving, Texas
• Temperature Control: Aldrich Trucking, Dongola, Illinois

Image Source: C.H. Robinson
Source: Truckers News

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Alongside this latest expansion, Roadrunner is introducing additional Guaranteed Lanes, bringing its total to over 60 across the U.S. and Canada. In total, these changes add more than 21,000 miles of new shipping routes. Kansas City now sees over 30 inbound lanes from all corners of the country, increasing access for long-haul customers coast to coast.

This latest push follows a previous expansion just this past spring, when nearly 300 new lanes were added. For a company known for its direct long-haul model—often covering routes of 1,400 miles or more—the new routes, which average 315 miles, offer more flexibility for shippers, especially in high-demand regions like the Midwest.

“The addition of new lanes into our Smart Network speaks volumes about the level of service we’re delivering,” said Tomasz Jamroz, Roadrunner’s president and COO. “This expansion moves us closer to our goal of becoming the preeminent long-haul LTL carrier in the country. We’re increasing speed, reliability, and efficiency where our customers need it most.”

The Midwest is experiencing the heaviest growth, with new outbound routes from cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Columbus, Louisville, Milwaukee, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Minneapolis. Paul area. These lanes feed directly into the newly designated Kansas City hub, which now anchors Roadrunner’s Midwestern service corridor.

Roadrunner’s updated network also strengthens its Northeast coverage. Lanes from New York/New Jersey, Boston, Baltimore, and Philadelphia now connect more efficiently to Cleveland and Kansas City, tightening long-haul links between the East Coast and the country’s industrial center.

Southern expansion includes lanes from key markets like Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Miami, Orlando, and Houston. These connections directly link to Kansas City and the broader Smart Network, providing faster and more reliable routing for shippers across the southern tier.

The western U.S. isn’t being left behind either. New lanes from San Diego, Phoenix, San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, and Portland now tie into Roadrunner’s cross-country routes, adding more options for West Coast customers needing service into the Midwest and beyond.

“Our commitment to a direct-run Smart Network gives shippers more control and reliability—especially as others in the market contract,” said Shari Leon, vice president of Linehaul Operations. “In just the past four months, we’ve added 400 new lanes—including 100+ this month—expanding our service reach and accelerating transit times with fewer handoffs. This scale-up into high-demand cities showcases the power of our over-the-road model and precision linehaul planning.”

The company is also growing its Smart Guarantee Lane offering—its promise of on-time delivery or the shipment is free. Newly added guaranteed routes include:

• Houston to Atlanta
• Philadelphia to Dallas
• Seattle to Dallas
• San Francisco to Chicago
• Commerce, CA to Atlanta, Cincinnati, Indianapolis
• Milwaukee to Dallas, Houston, San Francisco

For shippers seeking dependable long-haul performance with fewer stops and delays, Roadrunner’s latest Smart Network expansion adds capacity in the areas that matter most—especially for routes that connect growing urban centers across the U.S.

Source: Truckers News

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“Cargo thieves are well aware that extended holiday closures work to their advantage,” stressed Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations at CargoNet. “With theft activity already surpassing 2023’s record highs, we urge the industry to remain vigilant throughout the holiday weekend.”

Key Findings From CargoNet’s Data

CargoNet’s analysis of 174 recorded thefts during July 1–7 over the past five years highlights the following disturbing trends:

• Peak Risk Days: Cargo theft rates notably spike on July 1st and 2nd. These days see numerous loaded vehicles left unattended prior to the holiday.
• Rising Theft Activity: Even though 2023 marked a year of record theft rates, 2024 is already on track to exceed those numbers.
• High-Risk Locations: States facing frequent targeting include California, Texas, and Florida. Specific counties like San Bernardino (CA), Maricopa (AZ), Dallas (TX), Los Angeles (CA), and Shelby (TN) are particularly theft-prone hotspots.
• Preferred Targets: Criminals show a marked preference for high-demand goods, such as non-alcoholic drinks (especially energy drinks), major appliances, and computer electronics.
• Theft Methods: Cargo theft and direct vehicle theft remain more commonly executed than elaborate fraud schemes.

Examples of Past Theft Incidents

Previous July 4th weeks have seen significant losses, including:

• $439,895 in medical supplies – Davenport, FL
• $352,000 of computer electronics – San Francisco, CA
• $314,191 of computer electronics – Commerce, CA
• $180,000 worth of meat products – Georgetown, TX
• $180,000 worth of ATVs – Savannah, GA

What You Can Do to Mitigate Risk

CargoNet advises companies to reinforce security measures during this critical time. From employing GPS tracking devices to avoiding unattended storage and verifying hiring credentials, proactive steps can minimize vulnerabilities during the holiday.

Logistics stakeholders, don’t ignore these warning signs. Ensure your cargo and operations are safeguarded as the July 4th holiday nears.

Image &Source: The Trucker

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This year’s honorees, James “Jim” Jones, Roland Esquibel, and Mark Jones, have been inducted into Ryder’s prestigious “Driver Hall of Fame.” Together, these highly-skilled professionals share a staggering 105 years of combined experience and have collectively driven close to 6 million miles with an impeccable safety record.

“Our drivers move more than freight. They move our company and our customers’ businesses forward,” says Ryder Chairman and CEO Robert Sanchez. “Jim, Roland, and Mark represent the very best of Ryder and our customers, from their skill behind the wheel to their character and commitment to their communities. They are true ambassadors of our values and our brand.”

Meet the 2025 Driver of the Year Honorees

James ‘Jim’ Jones | Supply Chain Solutions

Based in Mason, Michigan, Jim Jones is a standout driver in Ryder’s Supply Chain Solutions division. With 38 years of professional driving experience, including the past eight with Ryder, Jim has safely logged over 2 million miles. Beyond his stellar driving record, Jim is a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Mason Fire Department. Known for his calm demeanor and team-first attitude, he exemplifies the values of responsibility and reliability that define Ryder.

(Source: Ryder) Jim Jones

Roland Esquibel | Dedicated Transportation Solutions

Hailing from Devine, Texas, Roland Esquibel is a driving force in Ryder’s Dedicated Transportation Solutions segment. Over a 35-year career, including the last four with Ryder, Roland has covered more than 2.3 million miles. A U.S. military veteran and an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Roland channels his leadership skills into every delivery. Outside of work, he contributes to his community through his local church, carrying forward his lifetime mission of service and mentorship.

(Source: Ryder) Roland Esquibel

Mark Jones | Fleet Management Solutions

Operating out of Sacramento, California, Mark Jones is the deserving winner of Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions “Customer Driver of the Year” award. Over a 32-year career, with more than 1.5 million logged miles, Mark has displayed an unwavering commitment to safety and reliability. A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, earning three Bronze Stars and the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Mark also mentors new drivers, ensuring future generations of professionals continue to excel.

(Source: Ryder) Mark Jones

Ryder’s Driver of the Year Program

Ryder’s Driver of the Year program is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence on the road. Highlighting unparalleled performance, the program celebrates top-tier drivers from Ryder’s workforce of 13,400 professionals, as well as drivers from their Fleet Management Solutions (FMS) customer base. Each honoree undergoes a rigorous selection process led by Ryder executives, safety specialists, and veteran drivers. For over half a century, this award has been one of Ryder’s most prestigious acknowledgments of driver excellence.

Through this annual recognition, Ryder not only honors its exceptional drivers but also highlights their critical role in driving the company, its customers, and the broader community forward.

Image Source: Ryder
Source: Truckers News

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