Stories from the road & the freight market
Trucking essentials for owner-operators and carriers, industry news that affects your rates, and the latest from Doft — with fresh stories published every week.
Trucking EssentialsPaper Logbooks vs. ELDs: What the FMCSA's Denial Really Means
The FMCSA just rejected a bid to allow paper logs. Here's what that decision means for owner-ops, compliance costs, and your roadside inspection risk.
Trucking EssentialsFMCSA Virtual Inspections: What Owner-Ops Need to Know (and Document)
Virtual roadside inspections are now standard under FMCSA protocol. Here's how they work, what they check, and how to prepare your truck and records.
Trucking EssentialsSpot Rates vs. Contract Rates in Q4: Which One Wins When Capacity Tightens
Uber Freight is warning of Q4 rate surges as capacity shrinks. But should owner-ops chase spot loads or lock in contracts? The math has changed.
Trucking EssentialsNYC Congestion Pricing for Trucks: What Owner-Ops Need to Know Now
New York City is rolling out truck delivery incentives to fight congestion. Here's what the rules mean for your routes, timing, and margins.
Trucking EssentialsEnglish Proficiency Rule Tightens: What Owner-Ops & Carriers Must Do Now
FMCSA's new enforcement teeth on English proficiency just changed hiring and compliance. Here's what you need to know—and do—before roadside checks get stricter.
Industry NewsModal Shift & Trucking Rates: Why Rail Is Taking Loads (And What It Means)
Shippers are moving freight to rail to dodge high trucking rates. Here's what that means for owner-operators and how to compete.
Trucking EssentialsFuel Hauler Pay Bump: How the HOS Waiver Changes Your Bottom Line
A 3-month hours-of-service waiver for fuel truck drivers just went live. Here's what it means for your earnings, your schedule, and whether it's worth chasing.
Trucking EssentialsDiesel Surge Meets Tight Capacity: The Real Margin Math for Q4 2026
Freight volumes are climbing, rates are holding high, but diesel costs are soaring. Here's how to calculate whether you're actually making money—and when to walk away from a load.
Trucking EssentialsHours of Service Waiver for Fuel Haulers: What Owner-Ops Need to Know
The FMCSA temporarily relaxed HOS rules for gasoline and diesel drivers. Here's what changed, who qualifies, and how to stay compliant while the waiver lasts.
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