Had enough?
A freight recession, especially one reaching historic levels, doesn’t materialize overnight.
Many of the lingering issues still affecting the freight market can be traced to the COVID-19 pandemic, when economic activity boosted rates, leading to a surge in new carriers and drivers.
That ultimately led to overcapacity, putting downward pressure on rates.
All that leaves most truckers frustrated and screaming “enough.”
Had enough?
It’s been a tough four-plus years for freight and the larger trucking economy. Will the rest of 2026 provide more promise?
SJ Munoz
FMCSA administrator hits the ground running
Derek Barrs is wasting no time in his new role as FMCSA administrator, sending a clear message to bad actors: FAFO.
Tyson Fisher
Rule of the road
In September 2025, the administration said the use of non-domiciled CDLs had created a national emergency. In March, the rule took effect.
Mark Schremmer
Truckers: reducing exemption window hasn’t improved safety
Back in 2023, FMCSA reduced the emergency relief window from 30 days to 14. But why? Was the change rooted in safety?
Mark Schremmer
Trucking groups want Congress, FMCSA to crack down on bad actors
“Removing unsafe drivers from the road is only part of the solution.” Getting rid of bad motor carriers is also important, trucking groups say.
Mark Schremmer
State Watch – May 2026
This month’s edition of State Watch takes a look at transportation pursuits in eight statehouses around the nation.
Keith Goble
Trip on I-70 in Indiana could cost $84
Would you pay $84 to travel a 156-mile stretch of Interstate 70 in Indiana? That could be a reality with proposed new tolls.
Tyson Fisher
The Truck Parking Zone – May 2026
More truck parking spaces are coming online, but local bans, neighborhood fights and rejected plans are still part of the story.
Tyson Fisher
Recent incidents in Texas show need for AV laws
The importance of federal guidelines supporting the deployment of autonomous vehicles was the topic of a Senate committee hearing.
SJ Munoz
Feeling congested?
New York City’s congestion pricing saga lasted years. Is it over, or will the Trump administration find a new path to fighting it?
Tyson Fisher
Truckers provide helping hand with convoys
Wildfires destroyed a good portion of farm land in western Nebraska. Truckers organized convoys to help provide relief.
Land Line Media
OOIDA Internal Services works behind-the-scenes
Keeping a large office tidy is no small task. OOIDA’s Internal Services team works hard to provide members and employees with a clean and inviting space.
Ryan Witkowski
ATHS members take to Route 66
ATHS is all about classic trucks. What better place to hold its national convention than a key stop along Route 66, which is celebrating 100 years?
Land Line Media
OOIDA life member finds audience on YouTube
Truckers are fighting to survive on the road. One owner-operator quietly built a loyal YouTube audience while doing it.
Ryan Witkowski
Three truckers named Highway Angels
When tragedy strikes on the highway, the moments immediately following can be a matter of life and death. Often, truckers answer the call.
Land Line Media
Caught on the lot – May 2026
You never have to look far for good looking trucks caught on the lot at 4 State Trucks home of the Chrome Shop Mafia in Joplin, Mo.
Bryan Martin
OOIDA on the Road – May 2026
Several OOIDA members stopped by The Spirit tour truck in recent months. Find out a little about the truckers who keep the nation moving.
Land Line Media
Slight Detour – May 2026
Candy-craving thieves, lucky (and some not so lucky) truckers, and a whole lot of dead ducks are along this Slight Detour.
Ryan Witkowski
Sound Judgment audiobook review: ‘Project Hail Mary’
The “Project Hail Mary” audiobook turns an already incredible sci-fi story into something even more unforgettable.
Sawyer Jacobs
Trucking History – May 2026
Let’s take a glance at trucking history for the month of May. Our first item goes all the way back to the days of the Great Depression.
SJ Munoz
Green Lights & Red Flags – May 2026
Do you agree with this list of best truck stops? Which ones deserve Green Lights and which deserve Red Flags?
SJ Munoz
Been there, done that, didn’t work
Self-certification in the trucking industry has failed multiple times. Are they really going to risk it again with driverless trucks?
Mark Schremmer
‘Smart’ links for tractor-trailers
A group within the Technology & Maintenance Council has been studying designs that could replace the current J560 tractor-trailer connector.
Tom Berg
Is the third time a charm?
The Department of Labor wants to change its independent contractor rule again? How does it differ from Trump’s previous rule?
Tyson Fisher
Going for the brokers
After years and years of arguing about whether brokers should be held liable in truck crashes, the U.S. Supreme Court will soon issue a ruling.
Tyson Fisher
Trucking & Taxes – May 2026
Who doesn’t want more tax deductions? Trucking & Taxes shares some of the potential deductions you could use for the 2026 tax year.
Barry Fowler
Road Law – May 2026
Time is valuable, especially to truckers who aren’t making money when they’re off the road. Road Law discusses the requirement to physically appear in court.
Jeff McConnell and James Mennella