The location sits at Exit 20, a well-traveled stretch for regional and long-haul freight moving through the Midwest. For fleets and owner-operators, that placement matters. Easy on and off access can make a difference when you are watching your clock or trying to line up your next break.

Built with Drivers in Mind

This is not a standard convenience store setup. Wawa designed this travel center format to better serve professional drivers alongside everyday travelers.

At the Lima site, drivers will find:

• A high-speed diesel fuel court built to handle larger volumes
• CAT scales available on-site
• Free parking for tractor-trailers
• Clean restrooms and a pet relief area

These are the basic+ drivers to look for when planning stops, especially in busy freight corridors where parking can be limited.

Part of a Growing Travel Center Push

The Lima opening marks the third travel center Wawa has rolled out under this newer format. The company is steadily expanding beyond its traditional footprint, adding locations that can handle both passenger vehicles and commercial traffic.

Other travel centers are already operating in Hope Mills, North Carolina, and Richmond, Indiana, signaling a broader push into areas where truck traffic and regional travel overlap.

For industry stakeholders, this kind of expansion reflects ongoing competition in the truck stop and travel plaza space. More options can improve access to parking and services, but it also raises expectations for speed, cleanliness, and overall driver experience.

A Focus on Convenience and Consistency

Wawa says the goal is to combine its food and beverage offerings with the kind of fuel access and layout that works for larger vehicles.

“Wawa’s 60-year history includes innovating and evolving our store design to meet the changing needs of customers, said Brian Schaller, president of Wawa. “In less than one year, we opened three locations that provide the convenience of fuel and Wawa’s fresh food and beverages to local customers, travelers, and professional drivers.”

What This Means on the Road

For drivers, another reliable stop along I-75 can help with trip planning, especially on routes where timing and available parking can shift quickly.

For fleets, it adds another consistent option for fueling and breaks, which can help with route efficiency and driver satisfaction.

As more companies invest in upgraded travel centers, the expectation is simple. Drivers want fast fuel, available parking, and a place that makes it easy to get back on the road without losing time. Locations like this are aiming to check those boxes while keeping up with the demands of modern trucking.

The post Wawa Expands Truck Stop Network with New I-75 Travel Center in Lima, Ohio appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A New VNX Is Coming

Volvo confirmed that a next-generation VNX is expected to debut later this year. While details are still limited, the move points to a bigger plan already underway across the company’s lineup.

The current VNX is built for heavy-haul and severe-duty work. It has not yet been updated with Volvo’s latest platform, which has already been rolled out in the newer VNL and VNR models. Bringing the VNX into that same system would give heavy-haul operators access to the same fuel savings, safety upgrades, and connected tech.

“We’re in the midst of more than $2 billion in product investments,” said Magnus Koeck, vice president of strategy, marketing, and brand management. “And we’re not done.”

For fleets running specialized freight, this signals that Volvo is getting more serious about competing in heavy-haul and vocational segments.

What the New Platform Is Delivering So Far

Volvo’s latest truck platform first showed up in the redesigned VNL, followed by the VNR for regional operations. Early numbers are already getting attention across the industry.

The VNL is delivering fuel economy gains of 10 percent or more in real-world use. The VNR is targeting up to 7.5 percent fuel savings. For carriers watching every cost, those numbers matter.

“In today’s environment, that can mean a 3% improvement in operating margin,” Koeck said. “That’s the difference between profit and loss for many fleets.”

For owner-operators and fleet managers alike, that kind of margin shift can decide whether a truck stays profitable over time.

Expanding Production to Keep Up

To support these new trucks, Volvo is putting serious money into production. The company has invested more than $400 million into its New River Valley plant in Virginia and is building a new $700 million facility in Monterrey, Mexico.

The Mexico plant is expected to begin low-volume production later this year. Volvo has made it clear this is about adding capacity, not replacing U.S. manufacturing, as it looks to grow its footprint in North America.

Trucks Are Getting More Connected

Volvo is also pushing further into connected truck technology. More than 220,000 Volvo trucks across North America are now connected, allowing over-the-air updates that can be installed without taking trucks off the road.

Adoption has picked up quickly. In about six months, the number of trucks running the latest software jumped from roughly 25 percent to more than 80 percent. According to Volvo, trucks with updated software are seeing 24 percent fewer unplanned stops.

“Trucks today are essentially smartphones on wheels,” said product expert Maddie Sullivan. “They’re constantly improving.”

For drivers, that means fewer shop visits tied to software issues and more updates happening without downtime.

New Hardware to Support More Data

Volvo is also working on a new tractor-trailer connector designed to handle more data than current systems. Today’s connectors mainly support lights and braking, but newer trucks rely on cameras, sensors, and telematics that need more bandwidth.

The company says it is working with partners to turn this into a new standard across North America. If adopted widely, it could improve how tractors and trailers share information in real time.

Safety Features Continue to Expand

Safety remains a major focus across Volvo’s lineup. New platform trucks now include features like a side-curtain airbag for heavy-duty applications and an automatic emergency call system that alerts first responders after a crash.

Additional options include blind-spot detection along the full length of a 53-foot trailer, adaptive lighting, and Volvo Dynamic Steering.

Beyond safety itself, there is also a financial side. Volvo noted that even non-injury crashes can average close to $50,000 in damage, making prevention a priority for fleets trying to control costs.

What This Means for Drivers and Fleets

Between a new VNX on the horizon, ongoing platform upgrades, and continued investment in both hardware and software, Volvo is clearly building toward a more unified lineup.

For drivers, that likely means more consistency from truck to truck. For fleets, it points to better efficiency, fewer unexpected repairs, and more control over operating costs.

With the heavy-haul segment next in line, the upcoming VNX will be one to watch as more details come out later this year.

The post Volvo Signals Next Heavy-Haul Truck as Platform Rollout Continues appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This recognition is a rare salute to the kind of consistency, patience, and professionalism that only long-haul veterans truly understand.

Honoring Drivers Who Hit the 20-Year Mark

Penske’s multi-tier Driver Recognition Program highlights safe-driving streaks at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. The Diamond level, with 20 years and zero preventable injuries or incidents, is the top of the program.

• 2024 Diamond Class
  • Tim Cote, Michigan
  • Susan Fabian, Georgia
  • Darrall Headrick, Texas
  • Mike Larmeu, Louisiana
• 2025 Diamond Class
  • Delio Garcia, Ontario, Canada
  • Will Lawrie, Arizona
  • Juan Sixtos, California
  • Tom Spence, Delaware
  • Keith Tyler, Michigan

Their names now join 85 all-time honorees on the Driver Wall of Fame at the Penske Logistics headquarters in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Penske Logistics President Jeff Jackson said it plainly.
“It is with tremendous honor and respect that we induct these Driver Wall of Fame classes. Our professional drivers are paramount to our company’s success. They serve as the industry’s gold standard for safety.”

What This Means for Drivers

With nearly 10,500 professional drivers across North America, Penske knows the job is not getting easier. Tight schedules, tight docks, and unpredictable traffic make staying incident-free for even one year an accomplishment. Reaching 20 years requires discipline and focus.

For the drivers being honored, this is not just a plaque. It is proof that the way they move freight sets the tone for the entire fleet.

Penske’s Larger Mission

Penske Logistics operates across dedicated transportation, freight management, distribution center management, lead logistics, transportation management, freight brokerage, and a suite of technology-driven tools. The Wall of Fame reinforces the company’s message that safety and professionalism are foundational to its operations.

If you are a driver looking for long-term stability or a fleet committed to safety, you can explore opportunities here.

Source: Truckers News

The post Penske Drivers Hit 20 Years of Safe Miles and Earn a Spot on the Wall of Fame appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Truckload Carriers Association has recognized Bradley as a TCA Highway Angel after he stepped in during a medical emergency involving another trucker. The situation unfolded the morning of Sept. 15 at a customer yard in Richmond.

Bradley first noticed another company driver trying to hook up to the wrong trailer. He gave the guy a hand getting lined up with the right one, but something still didn’t seem right. The air lines hadn’t been secured, and as the other driver climbed into the cab, Bradley saw him slump over the wheel while the truck inched forward.

“I called 911,” said Bradley. “I couldn’t leave him because I knew something was wrong.”

Bradley didn’t wait around. He got in front of the truck to stop traffic, climbed inside, and brought it to a stop before anything worse could happen. He stayed with the other driver until emergency crews arrived and made sure he got medical help.

Turns out the trucker was dealing with a blood sugar issue. “I’m glad he was alright,” says Bradley. “I stayed with him until the ambulance came.”

TCA launched its Highway Angel program back in 1997, and close to 1,500 drivers have been honored since then for acts of courage, quick thinking, and kindness on the road. The program is supported by EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance.

Bradley’s actions are a reminder that while most people don’t see what drivers deal with day to day, truckers still look out for each other when it counts.

Source: TCA, Truckers News

The post Trucker Jumps Into Action to Save Fellow Driver on the Job appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Recognizing Excellence in Transportation

“This recognition highlights the vital role our full-load carrier partners play in providing seamless service to our customers,” said Steve McDonald, vice president of Integrated Services. “Their commitment to reliability and quality strengthens our ability to deliver transportation solutions across North America.”

Over 25 Years of Partnership and Innovation

Averitt has built a trusted carrier network for more than 25 years, providing customers with solutions that extend beyond its operational footprint. This includes truckload brokerage services for dry van, refrigerated (reefer), flatbed, and cross-border shipping within North America. Each partner in this network undergoes thorough vetting to ensure top-tier service for Averitt’s customers.

Award Criteria

The winning carriers were evaluated based on key performance indicators such as tracking and visibility, proactive communication, consistent quality, on-time delivery, and volume handled.

2025 Averitt Integrated Carrier Award Winners

• Small Fleet Dry Van Carrier: Hidden Creek Transportation
• Large Fleet Dry Van Carrier: Mercer JTV
• Truckload Carrier for Mexico: Central de Fletes
• Truckload Carrier for Canada: Trans Expert Inc.
• Flatbed Carrier: Melton Truck Lines
• Reefer Carrier: J.R.’s Transportation
• Intermodal Rail Carrier: Florida East Coast
• Drayage Carrier: Intermodal West
• Integrated Services Provider of the Year: Landstar B & B

“This annual program reflects Averitt’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong partnerships with carriers that uphold the highest quality and service standards in the industry,” Averitt stated. For more information about Averitt’s Integrated services, or to inquire about becoming an Averitt Integrated carrier partner, visit Averitt.com/Integrated.

Source: The Trucker  

The post Averitt Launches First-Ever Integrated Carrier Awards appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

1. Millard E. Tydings Memorial Bridge (Maryland)

Spanning the Susquehanna River on I-95, the Millard E. Tydings Memorial Bridge connects Cecil and Harford counties. While the bridge itself isn’t structurally difficult, its high elevation leaves trucks vulnerable to intense crosswinds. For drivers hauling light loads, strong gusts can make steering unpredictable, forcing them to reduce speed significantly to maintain control.

2. Chesapeake Bay Bridge (Maryland)

Officially named the Governor William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, this 4.3-mile-long structure stretches across the Chesapeake Bay, linking Maryland’s Eastern and Western Shores. At nearly 200 feet above the water, the bridge is notorious for high winds and poor visibility during storms. Some drivers find it so unnerving that they hire professional services just to drive their vehicle across.

3.Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Washington)

This twin suspension bridge, spanning Puget Sound, is infamous in engineering history—its original version collapsed in 1940 due to wind-induced oscillations. Today’s structure is far more stable, but it remains a challenge for truckers. With long spans exposed to unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather, it’s common for strong winds and rain to impact visibility and vehicle stability.

4. Independence Avenue Bridge (Missouri)

A low-clearance nightmare in Kansas City, the Independence Avenue Bridge is one of the most unforgiving spots for truckers who miscalculate their route. Despite repeated warnings and bright signage, the bridge has claimed countless truck roofs over the years. Standing at just 12 feet high, this bridge has even been reinforced with steel beams to absorb the frequent collisions.

5. Sackett Point Road Railroad Bridge (Connecticut)

This railroad bridge in North Haven, Connecticut, sees an average of four truck crashes per year due to its low clearance of 12 feet, 9 inches. Even with warning signs, GPS errors and driver oversight lead to frequent accidents. Local officials have worked on better signage to prevent costly mistakes, but truckers passing through still need to double-check clearance levels before approaching.

How to Stay Safe on Tough Bridges

If you’re a truck driver, these bridges don’t have to be a nightmare. Here’s how to handle them with confidence:

Plan Ahead

• Check your route for low clearances, weight restrictions, and bridge conditions.
• Use trucker-specific GPS systems to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Check the Weather

• High winds? Reduce speed and keep both hands firmly on the wheel.

Heavy rain or fog? Increase following distance and use hazard lights if needed.

Follow Posted Signs

• Height and weight restrictions are there for a reason.
• If a bridge looks questionable, don’t risk it—find an alternate route.

Maintain Your Truck

• Check brakes, tires, and steering before long hauls.
• An unstable truck makes bridge driving even riskier.

Know When to Wait It Out

• If conditions feel unsafe, pull over and wait.
• No load is worth risking your safety.

The post America’s Toughest Bridges for Truckers and How to Handle Them appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Recognizing Excellence in Transportation

PepsiCo awarded Averitt this top distinction for their outstanding truckload services, highlighting their unmatched reliability and impressive performance.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of our associates and their commitment to delivering outstanding service,” shared Kent Williams, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Averitt. “We are proud to be recognized by Pepsi and look forward to continuing to meet and exceed expectations.”

A Standout Partner for PepsiCo

Among the South Division’s top five carriers for truckload volume, Averitt was specifically recognized for its superior on-time delivery performance, which exceeded PepsiCo’s stringent benchmarks. This reliability played a crucial role in earning the company this recognition.

Delivering Versatile Transportation Solutions

Averitt’s truckload services span a variety of industries, providing solutions for dry van transport, hazmat shipping, and production and event logistics. Their consistent quality and dedication to customer success position them as a leading choice for partners like PepsiCo.

For more information on Averitt’s truckload offerings, visit Averitt.com/Truckload.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Averitt

The post Averitt Wins PepsiCo’s 2024 South Division Carrier of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Honoring Porfirio Martinez – October Driver of the Month

Porfirio Martinez began his driving career with NCI in June 2006 as an owner-operator. Originally from Garden City, Kansas, Martinez shared how deeply rooted his connection to trucking is.

“My wife Emma and I have lived in Garden City most of our lives. I worked on a hay farm before earning a Commercial Driver’s License,” Martinez said. “I have five brothers who all have driven for National Carriers. In 2006, I bought my own truck and joined them. I love what I do; I like working with cattle. The most enjoyable thing about my job is the people I work with because we all get along.”

Martinez’s dedication goes beyond his daily responsibilities and doesn’t go unnoticed. Gillermo Torres, a livestock dispatcher at NCI, praised Martinez’s reliability and strong communication skills.

“Co-workers report he has always been someone that is easy to talk to,” Torres explained. “Every time he is asked to help, he never complains and always goes above and beyond for National Carriers. Whether an accident, road construction, traffic jam, or a minimal thing like excessive wind preventing safe travel, Porfirio will communicate through emails or call directly to update us on any situation that will conflict with loading or unloading on time. This allows our staff to update the feed yards or National Beef to let them know he will be running late.”

Recognizing Jason White – November Driver of the Month

Returning to NCI in January 2023, Jason White’s career path reflects an interesting blend of military discipline and trucking passion. After retiring from a 22-year service in the U.S. Marine Corps, White decided to pursue a career in driving.

“Before exiting the armed forces, I was offered the opportunity to earn a CDL license through the military,” White said. “As a youngster, I rode with my cousin, who drove a truck. After that experience, I thought I would enjoy the lifestyle. He is now in management at National Carriers and invited me to join the company once I was qualified. All NCI expects a driver to do is what all drivers are expected to do. In return, they provide current model trucks, keeping repair and breakdowns at a minimum.”

White’s return to the company continues to demonstrate his reliability and skill, making him a standout among his peers.

Rewards and Next Steps

Martinez and White’s well-deserved recognition comes with a $1,000 bonus for each of them. Additionally, both drivers are now finalists for NCI’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award, which includes a grand prize of $10,000.

Source: The Trucker & NCI 

The post NCI Celebrates Top Drivers for October and November appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The emergency declaration, which dates back to October, was initially renewed on November 8. The latest extension accommodates the specific requests from each state, with the new expiration dates as follows:

• Florida: December 2

• Georgia: December 11

• North Carolina: December 26

• Tennessee: December 26

This extension primarily benefits those involved in transporting essential supplies or operating utility service vehicles to restore critical services. Importantly, drivers providing direct assistance to hurricane recovery efforts are eligible for the relief, regardless of their trip’s origin.

Restrictions and Updates on Travel

Several roads in western North Carolina and Tennessee remain restricted to essential travel only. Additionally, vehicles longer than 30 feet are still prohibited on some routes.

While major road construction projects in North Carolina are paused for the Thanksgiving weekend, portions of key highways like Interstate 26 and Interstate 40 are still closed. Drivers planning trips in the area should proceed with caution.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Morristown, Tennessee, has forecast potential snow accumulations and freezing conditions over the weekend, adding further challenges to travel in these regions.

Need Assistance?

For updates on road closures, routing assistance, or emergency declarations by state, the FMCSA has detailed resources available on its website.

Stay safe and informed as recovery efforts continue.

Source: Land Line

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At this year’s Landstar BCO Appreciation Days in Durant, Okla., Simmons, from Myrtle Beach, S.C., was handed the keys to a sleek, blue 2025 Kenworth T-680 by Frank Lonegro, Landstar’s president and CEO. The event highlighted Landstar’s gratitude towards its community of BCOs. Lonegro expressed, “Landstar truck giveaways are an important way to illustrate our gratitude to all of the Landstar BCOs who support the Landstar network by operating safely and delivering for our customers every time they get behind the wheel. We are delighted to celebrate this life-changing event with Stacie and look forward to helping her achieve continued success as a Landstar BCO.”

Simmons was among five finalists chosen from nearly 9,000 eligible participants. The annual giveaway, a central feature of the two-day appreciation event, underscores Landstar’s dedication to rewarding excellence in safety and customer service.

Standing by her new truck, Simmons shared her excitement, noting the significance of the win for her and her husband, Markus, who is also her team driver. “We have a 2016 Volvo and she’s in the shop right now, so getting this is pretty spectacular,” Simmons said.

Landstar’s selection process rewards owner-operators who consistently deliver their loads safely. Additional entries into the giveaway were granted for attending safety meetings and joining the monthly Safety Thursday Conference Calls. Once the entry window closed, a computerized random draw determined the finalists, who were required to attend the giveaway event in person.

According to Landstar’s press release, the company has been gifting brand-new trucks since 1994, conducting two giveaways each year. This year’s earlier winner, John Fuller, a Two Million Mile Safe Driver and Roadstar honoree, received his truck during the BCO All-Star Truck Giveaway in July. In both cases, Landstar covers all costs related to the truck’s tag, tax, and title…

Source: The Trucker

The post Stacie Simmons Celebrates a Milestone as Landstar’s 50th Truck Recipient appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.