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 EssentialsCapacity Shortage Meets Diesel Surge: The Real Math on 2026 Margins
Tight trucking capacity should mean high rates—but diesel costs are eating profits faster than rates are rising. Here's how to model your actual margin and adjust now.
Trucking EssentialsAutomated Vehicles & Owner-Ops: What the DOT Strategy Really Means
The DOT just released its automated vehicle strategy. Here's what it signals for owner-operators and small fleets over the next 5–10 years.
Trucking EssentialsNon-Domiciled CDL Rule: What the Court Challenge Means for Owner-Ops
A legal battle over FMCSA's non-domiciled CDL rule is heating up. Here's what owner-operators need to know about the challenge, the timeline, and how it could affect your licensing.
Trucking EssentialsFactoring vs. Line of Credit: Which Financing Move Saves Owner-Ops More in 2026
Diesel is high, rates are volatile, and cash flow is tight. We break down factoring fees, credit terms, and hidden costs to help you pick the right financing tool.
Trucking EssentialsDOT Fraud Crackdown: What Owner-Ops Need to Know About the New Enforcement Wave
The federal government just launched a historic interagency effort to crack down on trucking fraud—from CDL mills to safety violations. Here's what it means for your business.
Trucking EssentialsData Center Boom Freight: How to Position Your Truck for Tech Supply Demand
Demand for data center equipment, cooling systems, and infrastructure is reshaping freight patterns across the US. Here's how owner-ops can find and bid on these high-value loads.
Trucking EssentialsHours of Service Pilot Programs: What Owner-Ops Need to Know Now
The FMCSA is advancing new HOS pilot programs that could reshape your schedule and earnings. Here's what's changing, who qualifies, and how to prepare.
Trucking EssentialsCDL Mill Crackdown: How to Verify Your Driver's License Is Safe
The DOT just shut down 110 fraudulent truck driving schools. Here's what owner-ops and small fleets need to know about protecting themselves—and their hiring.
Trucking EssentialsSpot Rates Plunge While Diesel Stays High: How to Protect Your Margin
Diesel prices and spot rates have decoupled. Carriers are caught in a squeeze. Here's how to read the market and position your truck before rates reset.
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