Business
Transport Topics business coverage focuses on the financial, economic, and commercial aspects of the modern freight business. Looking at both the microeconomic and macroeconomic forces shaping bottom lines, the news in this category includes labor news, jobs reports, tonnage and sales indicators, operations analysis, money and banking, mergers, acquisitions, e-commerce, bankruptcy, insurance issues, and more.
Truckload Carriers Raise Rates, Surcharges in Response to New California Taxes
Several truckload carriers are currently negotiating with shippers to add new surcharges or otherwise raise rates to haul freight through California after state lawmakers raised fuel taxes and other fees as of Nov. 1, Transport Topics has learned.
California Bill in the Works to Banish Gasoline Cars by 2040
A California lawmaker wants to put the state alongside China, France and the U.K. and have its legislature consider a ban on vehicles powered by fossil fuels.
December 6, 2017Washington State Seeks Alternative to Gas Tax
With fossil fuel usage trending downward, Washington state officials are rethinking the taxation methods the state applies to road users.
Paccar Declares Extra Cash Dividend
Paccar Inc. declared an extra cash dividend of $1.20 per share, payable Jan. 4 to stockholders of record at the close of business Dec. 14.
December 6, 2017Mack Aims to Gain Market Share in the West
Mack Trucks is working to rebuild its Western presence and grow its Class 8 market share in the region with its latest models.
ExxonMobil Launches New Synthetic Engine Oils to Meet Expected Growth
ExxonMobil introduced three Mobil Delvac 1 synthetic heavy-duty diesel engine oils for use in on-highway and off-highway applications, with the expectation that the oils’ promised improvements in fuel efficiency and maintenance will spur greater industry adoption.
Top Driver Complaints: Rude Staff, Pay, Intrusive In-Cab Technology, Analysts Say
Fleet drivers have issues with their carrier’s staff, the company’s approach to equipment and maintenance, technology in their cabs and feel that they have little control over their work, according to WorkHound, the Chattanooga, Tenn.-based provider of a smartphone-based system that allows truck drivers to anonymously discuss concerns they have with their employers.
Agricultural Exports to Mexico Growing in 2017, Experts Say
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that farm exports to China, Mexico and Canada have been strong over the past 12 months, although some transportation and logistics providers told Transport Topics that their volumes weren’t as strong as the federal data would suggest.
Did Uber Hide Evidence? Judge in Self-Driving Trade Secrets Case Wants an Answer
A U.S. district judge wants to determine why Uber failed to turn over some explosive evidence as it battled a lawsuit alleging it stole self-driving car secrets.
UPS Switching to Three-Wheel Deliveries in Florida Town
Fort Lauderdale, Fla., will soon become the first city in the state to use electric tricycles to deliver packages to businesses and homes, according to UPS Inc. and city officials.