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 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.

The annual Mack Trucks Calendar Contest has returned for its 2027 edition, bringing new categories into the mix while continuing to highlight working trucks across real-world applications. The program focuses on trucks currently in revenue service, not showpieces or retired units, putting the spotlight on equipment that earns its keep every day.

“The Mack Calendar Contest is really about the pride our customers have in their trucks and the work they do with them,” said David Galbraith, Mack Trucks vice president, global brand and marketing. “Every year, we see incredible entries that capture the toughness, reliability, and character of Mack trucks in action. With the addition of new categories this year, we’re looking forward to seeing even more stories from the people who rely on Mack to get the job done.”

What’s New in the 2027 Contest

This year’s contest introduces additional themed categories aimed at reflecting how Mack trucks are used across different job types and operating conditions.

New categories include:

• Built for Toughest Jobs
• Built for Versatility
• Built for the Long Haul
• Alternative Fuels

These are being added alongside returning categories such as Old Bulldogs Hard at Work, as well as model-specific entries for trucks like the Mack MD, Mack LR, and Mack TerraPro.

Important Dates to Know

Drivers and fleet operators planning to enter should pay close attention to the timeline:

• Early entry period ends March 31
• Public voting runs from April 1 through April 30
• Submissions remain open during the voting period
• Winners will be announced by May 30

Each participant can receive one vote per day in each category through the contest website.

What Winners Receive

Selected trucks will be featured in the official 2027 Mack calendar. Each winning entry will also receive a professional photo shoot arranged by Mack Trucks.

In addition to the calendar, selected entries may be showcased across Mack’s social media platforms, which reach more than 1,000,000 followers.

Who Should Enter

The contest is open to trucks actively working in fleets, meaning vehicles that are still hauling, operating, and generating revenue. This keeps the focus on real working conditions, whether that is long-haul freight, vocational jobs, or specialized applications.

Where to Find More Information

Full contest rules and submission details are available through Mack Trucks’ website here. Questions about entries can be directed to socialmedia@macktrucks.com.

The finished 2027 calendar is expected to be released later this year through Mack’s online store.

The post Last Chance for Early Entry as Mack Trucks Expands 2027 Calendar Contest Categories appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The company recently introduced a new iPhone widget that connects directly to the DAT One platform. The feature places load information on the phone’s home screen so drivers can quickly check opportunities without opening the full application.

According to DAT, the tool was built after hearing consistent feedback from independent carriers who wanted faster access to the loads that match their search preferences.

“Owner-operators told us they want their best load matches readily visible, without having to open their phone,” said Christian Greiner, general manager, carrier segment, DAT. “The DAT One iOS widget helps them find their next load at a glance.”

For drivers who monitor the spot market throughout the day, that quick visibility can save valuable time. Instead of navigating through several screens, the widget displays the best matches based on the most recent search performed inside the DAT One app.

Each update shows three load options with the strongest rate per mile tied to the driver’s search filters. Those filters can include location, equipment type, and search radius, which helps ensure the results remain relevant to the lanes the driver is already watching.

The information refreshes automatically throughout the day, so drivers can keep an eye on changing opportunities as rates shift.

Another feature built into the widget allows direct communication with brokers. From the home screen, a driver can call or email the broker connected to the listed load with a single tap. That quick connection can be especially useful in competitive freight markets where speed often determines who secures the load.

DAT says the tool is meant to simplify workflow for independent drivers who manage their own dispatch while juggling other responsibilities on the road.

The widget pulls its information directly from the DAT One platform, which many owner operators already use to search freight and monitor rate activity.

Adding the feature is straightforward for iPhone users. Drivers can press and hold their home screen, open the widget menu, search for DAT One, and place the widget directly onto their screen for instant access.

For carriers who spend much of their day checking freight boards, the update offers a small but practical way to keep load opportunities within reach without interrupting the rest of their work.

The post DAT Rolls Out iPhone Widget That Lets Owner-Operators Check Load Matches Without Opening the App appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The event will take place March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, where thousands of drivers, carriers, and industry professionals gather each year for one of trucking’s largest annual events.

A Night That Brings the Industry Together

The Silent Auction will be held during the MATS Opening Night Reception. The event brings together attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders for an evening of networking, food, and entertainment as the show officially gets underway.

Auction items are donated by industry partners, and attendees can place bids throughout the reception. All proceeds from the auction go directly toward supporting SCF and its work assisting truck drivers and their families during times of illness or injury.

“Last year’s Silent Auction was an incredible example of what happens when our industry comes together for drivers in need,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity we saw — from donated items to competitive bidding — directly translated into meaningful support for truckers and their families. We’re excited to bring that same energy back to MATS this year.”

According to SCF, last year’s auction raised more than $13,500 for the nonprofit, with participation from donors, bidders, and volunteers across the trucking industry.

Why the Fund Matters to Drivers

For many professional drivers, especially owner-operators, time away from the road due to medical issues can quickly create financial strain. The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term assistance for Class A over-the-road drivers who have been forced out of work because of illness or injury within the last 365 days.

The organization also offers health and wellness initiatives aimed at helping drivers prevent long-term health problems and stay on the road.

“Owner-operators and professional drivers are the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, but they often don’t have a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at OOIDA. “The Silent Auction at MATS is a powerful reminder that this industry stands behind its drivers. Every bid placed, and every item donated, helps ensure that professional drivers have somewhere to turn when illness or injury takes them off the road.”

Opening Night Reception Sponsor

This year’s Opening Night Reception is sponsored by Triumph, a company focused on modernizing and simplifying freight transactions through financial and technology services designed for the trucking industry.

A Major Gathering for the Trucking Industry

Now in its more than 50-year history, the Mid-America Trucking Show continues to be the largest annual gathering in trucking. Each year, the event draws thousands of drivers, fleet representatives, manufacturers, and service providers from across North America.

The Silent Auction remains one of the show’s community-focused events, giving the industry a way to support drivers facing difficult circumstances.

SCF encourages MATS exhibitors and industry partners to donate items for the auction and invites attendees to participate in bidding during the Opening Night Reception.

More information about the Silent Auction and how to donate items can be found here. Drivers or industry partners interested in supporting the organization can also contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

The post MATS 2026 Silent Auction Will Raise Funds for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

That’s the backdrop for Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ expanding its 2026 Brake School schedule, offering more in-person and advanced technical training sessions across the country.

In total, Bendix will host 23 in-person classes across 11 states, along with two virtual options, running from March through November. The sessions are designed for fleet technicians, owner-operators, and maintenance professionals, but the topics directly affect anyone behind the wheel who depends on reliable braking performance.

Why This Training Matters to Drivers

Modern braking systems tie directly into safety technology that drivers rely on every day. When those systems are not properly serviced or diagnosed, it can lead to performance issues, warning lights, or unexpected behavior on the road.

Bendix says growing system complexity is exactly why it is expanding access to training.

“Technical education is more important than ever. At Bendix, we hear this time and again in conversations with fleets across North America,” said Nicole Oreskovic, Bendix vice president of sales and marketing. “Technicians operate in a fast-changing commercial vehicle environment, where safety components advance rapidly. The pressure is intense for carriers to maintain overall safety, performance, and uptime – while striving to lower their total cost of ownership.”

For drivers, that translates to better-maintained equipment, fewer roadside issues, and shops that understand the technology on newer trucks.

Air Brake Training Remains the Foundation

The backbone of the 2026 schedule is Bendix’s three-day Air Brake Training course, with 16 sessions planned nationwide. The first class runs March 31 through April 2 in Fresno, California.

This course focuses on the fundamentals that every truck depends on, including how dual air brake systems operate, how components interact, and how failures are diagnosed and repaired.

Classroom topics include compressed air fundamentals, air system failure mode diagnosis, and foundation brake components such as compressors, valves, drum brakes, and air disc brakes. The training also introduces Bendix’s Global Scalable Brake Control electronic braking system and Global Scalable Air Treatment technologies.

Bendix recommends participants complete its online air brake training before attending an in-person class.

Advanced Technology Training Expands for 2026

As driver assistance systems become more common, Bendix is also expanding its two-day Advanced Technology Training program, offering seven sessions in 2026.

Three sessions will be held at the company’s headquarters in Avon, Ohio. Two will take place in Reno, Nevada, and two in Fairfield, Connecticut. The first advanced session begins April 14- 15 in Avon.

This course builds on the air brake foundation and focuses on how advanced safety systems operate and are diagnosed. Topics include antilock braking systems, Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program, Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation, Bendix Fusion driver assistance systems, lane departure warning systems, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic braking and air treatment systems.

Hands-on instruction covers air disc brake maintenance and electrical diagnostics tied to these systems.

“The increase in technological advances in braking and stability makes this training a must for the advanced technician,” said Brian Screeton, Bendix manager of technical training and service. “As safety advances continue, technicians are only going to see more of these systems and components.”

Screeton added that at least one major North American OEM requires technicians pursuing master certification for its brake systems to complete both the two-day and three-day Bendix programs.

Virtual Classes and Testing Options

For those unable to attend in person, Bendix will offer two three-day virtual classes in 2026. One session will follow Eastern Time and the other Mountain Time to accommodate attendees across North America.

In-person classes include hands-on training using Bendix air system boards, including a working Bendix Fusion system that demonstrates collision mitigation and full air brake system operation.

At the end of both in-person and virtual courses, participants may take an optional written exam. Those who pass receive a Tested and Passed certificate, while others receive a certificate of completion. Bendix training is not affiliated with U.S. Department of Transportation certification and does not certify technicians for work on its systems.

Cost and Registration

Pricing for 2026 training is $525 per person for the three-day Air Brake Training course, $475 for the two-day Advanced Technology Training class, and $425 for the virtual program. Class sizes are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration is available through bendix.com, B2Bendix.com, or by calling 1-800-AIR-BRAKE.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

The post Bendix Adds More Advanced Technology Training to 2026 Brake School appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“We are honored to team up with Wreaths Across America,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “This partnership gives our community in the trucking industry a meaningful way to participate in a time-honored tradition of remembrance and gratitude for our veterans.”

Through this partnership, SCF is helping highlight WAA’s mission of Remembering the Fallen, Honoring Those Who Serve, and Teaching the Next Generation the Value of Freedom. Drivers, carriers, trucking industry partners, family, and friends are encouraged to visit the SCF landing page on the WAA site. From there, supporters can select “Sponsor Wreaths,” choose a location, and complete a sponsorship to place a wreath at a veteran’s gravesite.

Shared Values Between Truckers and the Military

The trucking industry has a deep connection with the military. Many professional drivers are veterans themselves, continuing to serve the nation by keeping the economy moving. Both communities embrace values such as commitment, resilience, and sacrifice, making this partnership a natural way to honor these ideals.

“By supporting Wreaths Across America, the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund and our partners are helping ensure that every veteran’s grave is recognized with a wreath, symbolizing the gratitude of a nation that will never forget their service,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).

How Truckers Can Get Involved

“The St. Christopher Fund encourages every individual and organization across the trucking and logistics sector to participate,” SCF said. “Whether sponsoring a wreath, volunteering on-site at the ceremony, or spreading the word among colleagues and loved ones, your involvement helps amplify the message of remembrance.”

Beyond honoring veterans, SCF supports the trucking community through nationwide short-term relief programs for Class A OTR drivers affected by illness or injury in the past year. The nonprofit also provides free preventive health and wellness initiatives, including tobacco cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers, all aimed at keeping drivers on the road safely.

For those interested in donating or sponsoring the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, via email at diane@truckersfund.org.

Source: The Trucker

The post St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund Teams Up with Wreaths Across America to Honor Veterans appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

According to the OOIDA Foundation, the association’s research and education branch, “most researchers don’t have access to enough owner-operators to properly collect and analyze information from this critical segment of the trucking industry.” To address this gap, the Foundation has actively engaged members since 1998, ensuring that their opinions reach federal, state, and local agencies. This ongoing effort has produced one of the most detailed profiles of owner-operators in the United States.

The 2025 OOIDA survey is now open and can be completed anonymously online. “We want to make sure that we are focusing on the issues that you desire,” the Foundation said. “It’s important to us that we support both your business and lifestyle. We need to know what you think on critical topics so we can direct our energies appropriately.”

Key Findings from the 2024 Member Survey

Last year, more than 19,000 owner-operator members participated in a random sample survey. Among respondents, 46 percent reported being leased to motor carriers, while 44 percent operated under their own authority. On average, drivers covered over 102,000 miles, with roughly 20 percent of those miles being deadhead, often due to challenging market conditions.

Surveyed operators reported annual maintenance costs averaging $18,900, including $3,400 spent on emission-related repairs and $3,300 for damage caused by poor road conditions. Independent operators typically spent more on tires compared with those leased to carriers. Maintenance costs per mile rose to 23 cents.

Freight rates, availability, and carrier reputation were the most important factors influencing leased owner-operators when selecting work. High driver turnover was largely attributed to low pay, a lack of respect, and inconsistent freight. In fact, 40 percent of leased drivers reported working for five or more carriers in the past year.

Challenges Facing One-Truck Operators

Research focused on one-truck operations, which make up nearly half of all motor carriers. These operators face unique hurdles in securing consistent freight and navigating complex regulatory requirements. While direct contracts generally provide higher earnings, most one-truck carriers rely heavily on brokers and load boards.

Many drivers also noted difficulties contesting inaccurate safety violations through the DataQ system. Insurance, permits, and other regulatory fees remain significant concerns, alongside rising fuel costs, declining freight rates, and parking shortages.

OOIDA’s research underscores the importance of listening to owner-operators and addressing the practical challenges they face daily. By capturing and analyzing these insights, the Foundation ensures that small-business truckers have representation and support that reflects both their business and lifestyle needs.

Source: Land Lined Media

The post OOIDA Research Highlights Challenges and Realities for Owner-Operators appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Honoring the Drivers Who Go the Extra Mile

After sifting through thousands of entries, Pilot selected two standout drivers who embody professionalism, safety, and service. In addition to Batiste, Bobby Peeker, a Marine Corps veteran, also earned recognition for his exceptional contributions to the trucking and veteran communities. Peeker will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with a $25,000 charitable donation made by Pilot to a veterans-focused organization of his choice.

“We received thousands of entries celebrating the efforts of drivers who go the extra mile each and every day,” said Jordan Spradling, senior vice president of transportation and midstream assets at Pilot Company. “Stacy’s and Bobby’s hard work, dedication to the profession, commitment to safety and service stood out. We are honored to welcome them to the Road Warrior winner’s circle. They both are prime examples of the positive impact professional drivers have on and off the road.”

Pilot’s Road Warrior contest is its way of recognizing the drivers who keep North America moving, day in and day out.

Stacy Batiste: 33 Years of Dedication

Batiste was awarded the largest prize in contest history: a custom Kenworth truck built by the Diesel Brothers and a $50,000 cash prize. With over 33 years behind the wheel and more than 5.1 million accident-free miles, Batiste views trucking not just as a career, but as a calling.

A Marine Corps veteran, he has consistently prioritized road safety and has earned a reputation as a mentor for younger drivers. Beyond trucking, Batiste is an active member of his local community, always finding ways to give back.

On October 21, Pilot surprised Batiste while he was on the road at a Flying J in Baytown, Texas, presenting the keys to his custom Kenworth and the $50,000 check. His family joined the celebration, hidden in the travel center to share the moment. Batiste began his driving career hauling sugar cane in South Louisiana, and now, as an owner-operator, the new truck supports his ongoing passion for safe, community-focused driving.

Bobby Peeker: Veteran and Community Advocate

Peeker has logged more than 1 million accident-free miles and continues to give back to the military community after his service in the Marine Corps. He regularly volunteers his time and resources to help fellow servicemen and women and participates in truck shows supporting the Special Olympics.

His passion for trucking was shaped early on by his family, and particularly by his grandfather, who helped remove rubble after the 9/11 attacks using his truck.

Celebrating Trucking Excellence

For over a decade, Pilot has honored professional drivers through the Road Warrior contest, highlighting more than 30 drivers whose dedication and safety-first approach set the standard for the industry.

For more information about the Road Warrior contest, including past winners and how drivers can be recognized, visit Pilot’s website.

Image Source: Pilot

Other Source: The Trucker

The post Pilot Names 2025 Road Warrior Champions appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.