2019 Lifeliner Magazine (Issue 1)

IMTA’S LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS

With the 2019 legislative session underway, IMTA continues to focus on the issues that unite rather than divide.

Issue 1, 2019

Issue 1, 2019

The AOBRD to ELD Transition p18

The mandatory transition date is rapidly approaching. Learn why your company should consider making the switch sooner than later.

Aggressive Fundraising Campaign p28

The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation ramps up $20 million campaign to support and complement IMTA’s activities.

FEATURES p2 p3 p5 p6 p9 p10 p14 p28 p32 p33 p36 p40

Listening In Chairman's Message President’s Message Up Close & Personal Ask the Members Members in the News Industry News Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation ATRI Update ATA Update IMTA Events Final Thought

COLUMNS p12 p26 p27

Economic Update Employee & Human Resources Next Generation Speaks

OUR STAFF BRENDA NEVILLE, CAE President & CEO

brenda@iowamotortruck.com

JORDAN BJERKE Membership & Finance Manager

jordan@iowamotortruck.com

DON EGLI, CDS Director of Safety & Security don@iowamotortruck.com

MORGAN STEENHOEK Communications, Events & Marketing Assistant

morgan@iowamotortruck.com

JANELLE STEVENS Director of Communications, Education & Events janelle@iowamotortruck.com

MACLYN WEST Design & Cover Illustration

IOWA MOTOR TRUCK ASSOCIATION 717 East Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 515.244.5193 | iowamotortruck.com

SPONSORS IFC p4 p8 p17 p24

Great West Casualty Thompson Truck and Trailer IMTA Cornerstone Sponsors Harrison Truck Centers Renewable Energy Group

p25 p30

Truck Country

p31

McGowen, Hurst Clark & Smith, P.C.

Midwest Peterbilt Group Quality Services Corp.

Central Trailer Service

p35

Donaghy-Kempton Insurors Housby Mack IMTA History Book

O’Halloran International

p34

Thermo King Sales and Service

IBC

MHC Kenworth

BC

Midwest Wheel Companies

ISSUE 1, 2019

1

“We will pursue our mission …to increase paychecks by rebuilding America with green and modern infrastructure from sea to shining sea.”

“He was a man of such great humility.

Those who travel the high road of humility in Washington, D.C., are not bothered by heavy traffic.”

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE NANCY PELOSI in remarks made when she accepted the Speaker’s gavel

SENATOR ALAN SIMPSON describing President George H.W. Bush during the state funeral for the former President

“As we begin our 2019 session, our focus should not be on the next election, instead we must look toward lifting up our next generation.”

SENATE MAJORITY LEADER JACK WHITVER in his opening remarks to the Iowa Senate as they gaveled in to start the 2019 session

“The time has come to open the government and get back to doing the American people’s business like enacting an infrastructure modernization plan.”

ED MORTIMER United States Chamber of Commerce Executive Director for transportation infrastructure

LISTENING IN

“We are looking at infrastructure, we’re looking at many things that can happen that I think both sides want.”

PRESIDENT TRUMP

“My vision for the future of Iowa hasn’t changed, but the future I see isn’t around the corner, or after the next election.

The future is now. The time is now to deliver on the promises we’ve made to Iowans looking for a way up.”

GOVERNOR KIM REYNOLDS in her 2019 Condition of the State speech to the Iowa legislature

“Maybe this is an opportunity for infrastructure to step into that role and serve as a way for the parties to come together and the Congress and the administration to push forward with some kind of an infrastructure package.”

NEW AASHTO (AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF STATE HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS) DIRECTOR JIM TYMON after noting that after shutdowns, lawmakers tend to seek common ground to demonstrate they can work together

“Football is what I do.

It’s not who I am.”

CHICAGO BEARS KICKER CODY PARKEY during an interview about his botched field goal attempt that cost his team a playoff victory

CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE Happy New Year!

I have given up on making a New Year’s resolution, so I don’t break any this year. I hope you all survived the holidays and in transportation, that can be challenging. During the holiday season, the trucking industry still delivers the food, gas, packages, and supplies while almost everyone else stops – NOT FAIR! Being a good Catholic boy, it was a godsend that our fleet is composed of a third Bosnian Muslims; they worked through Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day, making scheduling easier. Well, that was 20 years ago and now they have become good Americans and observe those holidays. Unfortunately, in 2019, we will have the same scenario as 2018, with Christmas and New Year’s falling in the middle of the week, so you have a little over 300 days to prepare.

Speaking of preparation, how prepared would you be if the DOT showed up at your door and wanted to look things over?

At DMTC, I like to think we are prepared.

We run an honest, clean operation that not only provides great service to our customers, but also a safe working environment for our drivers and the public.

We also like to think we dot our i’s and cross our t’s. Last week, we were audited by our insurance company’s safety team.

They complimented us on our safe operation but proceeded to point out a few record keeping items that needed to be addressed, including the new medical cards and ELD requirements. We made these minor changes and they bought me lunch – the DOT wouldn’t have bought me lunch. Given this recent experience, I will now plug what I believe to be one of the greatest benefits IMTA offers: regulatory and compliance assistance.

IMTA’s Director of Safety and Compliance, Don Egli, has been in the industry for over 30 years. Our paths crossed in Northwest Indiana where we attended neighboring high schools, both drove trucks and had mutual friends.

When I was Ruan’s Marshalltown Terminal Manager, Don was Ruan’s Director of Safety. He has held various management

roles all related to safety and compliance.

When a safety issue arises and DMTC needs help, he is my first call and is happy to share his knowledge and expertise with me, as he is with any IMTA member. Don and the IMTA staff have a strong and positive relationship with all the regulators. They meet with these folks regularly and go out of their way to stay apprised of regulatory issues that can and will have an impact on our daily operation.

Because the compliance environment is so challenging and always changing, for many years now, IMTA has made this area a priority. The IMTA has often been contacted by members after DOT or FMCSA audits didn’t turn out well and Don has worked with their companies to get them back into compliance. This led to a more proactive approach with the IMTA offering a whole menu of regulatory and compliance services for an additional fee.

Some of the more popular services offered are comprehensive mock audits and assistance with driver meetings and education.

The mock audits are very effective and mimic an audit you would have with the DOT or FMCSA. They can last a half day or several days depending on how deep you want to dig. At the end of it, you will receive a comprehensive report of the results and Don will help with any problem areas revealed in the audit. It is a great way to be proactive in your compliance efforts. The fees are charged based on his time spent in your office and are required, because these audits are tailored and customized specifically to your operation.

Don will also come in and put on training presentations for your drivers, too.

These presentations are effective because they involve someone from outside the company providing information drivers need to hear, and more importantly, implement. And yes, IMTA staff is more than happy to do these meetings on the weekend too – another testament to their commitment to the industry.

I know we are all focused on our bottom line, but these are some services IMTA provides that give you a tremendous return on your investment and a lot of peace of mind.

JACK SAWYER

2019 IMTA Chairman of the Board

WE RUN AN HONEST, CLEAN OPERATION THAT NOT ONLY PROVIDES GREAT SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS, BUT ALSO A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR DRIVERS AND THE PUBLIC.

ISSUE 1, 2019

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THOMPSON TRUCK & TRAILER

®

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The 88th Iowa General Assembly is underway and legis- spend countless millions of dollars studying other potential lators on both sides of the aisle have outlined their priorities funding mechanisms. for the 2019 legislative session. Both parties have emphaIn 2015, Iowa lawmakers had the fortitude and leadersized a need to work together on several issues impacting ship to take bold action, and while we passed a tax increase our state; mental health, education, investing in rural Iowa, that has resulted in major road and bridge improvements, and Medicare. it still fell short when the provision for indexing was We will all be the beneficiaries of this spirit of cooperation removed. Indexing with a floor … now if only that prevailed in D.C. When Governor Kim and ceiling is a logical and smart Reynolds addressed the legislature, she urged lawmakers to strategy and is the responsible set aside differences and forge a common vision. And while thing to do. IMTA was very supthe Republican trifecta prevails at the Iowa Capitol there portive of indexing but agreed to seems to be a very conscious effort by Iowa lawmakers to let it be stripped out of the legislafocus on the issues that unite rather than divide and to keep tion to pass the fuel tax increase. civility and decorum at the forefront. That is the Iowa way.

As major consumers of roads At IMTA we have always tried to focus on the issues and highways, our industry that unite rather than divide and we do that by constantly knows first hand the value and reaching out to the members and getting their insight and importance of good roads and feedback on areas of concern. Throughout our membership bridges. And unlike any other outreach efforts this fall, good conversations took place group associated with this diviand, once again, IMTA members demonstrated their com- sive issue, a fuel tax increase has a mitment to the process by showing up with a willingness direct impact on our bottom line, to share their opinions and concerns. yet we are willing to get behind The one question that consistently emerged at these this type of a “user fee” because BRENDA NEVILLE member outings is one of great importance. I was asked it is the right thing to do.

IMTA President & CEO many times if there was any issue that could potentially While indexing may not be the unite legislators and I truly believe there is an issue that appropriate mechanism, I believe both Democrats and Republicans could get behind and that a pragmatic and honest discussion on how we are going to is infrastructure funding. pay for our roads and bridges in the future needs to take The foundation of this country’s continued economic center stage (and tolling is NOT the answer). As new techprosperity is tied to our infrastructure and in my opinion, nologies such as electric cars and trucks continue to emerge, specifically roads and bridges. Since the the urgency of this discussion cannot early 1940s, when President Roosevelt be dismissed.

AS A NEW LANDSCAPE recognized the value of roads and authoAs a new landscape unfolds in D.C. UNFOLDS IN D.C. WITH rized a network called the “National with Democrats and Republicans sharDEMOCRATS AND System of Interstate Highways” and ing control in our nation’s capitol, a REPUBLICANS SHARING renewed discussion on infrastructure later when President Eisenhower finally CONTROL IN OUR secured the funding for this system in is unfolding as well. I believe this is an NATION’S CAPITOL, A 1956 with the Federal Aid-Highway Act, issue that can get support from both RENEWED DISCUSSION this state and country have prospered. sides of the aisle. President Trump has ON INFRASTRUCTURE IS hinted his support which further opens Sadly, however, over time, there UNFOLDING AS WELL. seems to be too many other political disthe door for more discussion. Democrat tractions and lawmakers have neglected and Republican leaders need something to make this a priority. How many years that will lend credibility to their ability have we kicked the can down the road on the national level? to lead and this very well could be the issue.

The highway trust fund is on the brink of bankruptcy yet As an industry, we need to continue to keep this discuslegislators in D.C. are always very guarded in their remarks sion alive and challenge legislators in Iowa and in D.C. to relative to addressing the problem. Numerous states across keep this issue in the forefront. The trucking industry has the country refuse to act because of the alleged political sui- consistently demonstrated their leadership on this issue and cide that accompanies a vote for an increase in fuel taxes, yet now we need lawmakers to follow our lead.

ISSUE 1, 2019

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UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

JACK SAWYER, Des Moines Transportation Co.

1

What motivates you to come to work every day?

Every day is a new challenge and I have 85 families counting on me, including my two kids’ families.

2

What are the three biggest challenges that your company faces as an organization at the current time?

Personnel. Hiring good motivated people who are conscientious.

The changing economy. While the economy has been good for several years, there will always be some market corrections to deal with coupled with changing the way we do business and not getting our head stuck in the sand.

The continuous regulatory challenges we face from Federal and State Governments which is why we are members of the IMTA and ATA, to support their efforts on our behalf.

3

How do you believe the trucking industry will fare under the Trump Administration?

I think over all he will be good for business. He needs to maintain a more steady and pragmatic foreign policy and not be tweeting at 3 am about serious issues.

4 JACK SAWYER

President, Des Moines Transportation Co.

I n your opinion, what are the biggest barriers to profitability for a trucking company today and how is IMTA going to help its members deal with those barriers?

I am worried about the constant regulatory issues critical to trucking. I mean seriously, California is just going off the wall and those “ideas” creep towards the Midwest. The IMTA needs to keep a strong presence at the State House and keep a seat at the table with the regulatory groups. So, the IMTA needs to prevent those barriers from being erected.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

5

hat is the most misunderstood W element of IMTA and its operation in Des Moines?

That the large carriers control the IMTA and are just focused on their issues. That isn’t true, IMTA focuses on issues that impact all carriers, big and small.

6

I n your opinion, what does IMTA have in its arsenal/toolbox that truly makes it an effective organization and voice for Iowa’s trucking industry?

The staff at the IMTA and the continuity that Brenda and Don bring to our group are great. The national committees they sit on bring credibility to the IMTA and respect from State and National leaders. We have a very competent and professional staff.

7

hat are you looking forward to most W as the Chairman of the Board for IMTA?

8

I f you were granted three wishes for IMTA what would those three wishes be?

Helping the IMTA continue the successful path it is on and keeping the members involved.

Brenda and her staff do a great job along with our lobbyist. But at some point, I would also like to have an “in-house lobbyist” who would also oversee image and marketing Improving our image around the state by using the show trailer, our road team, and the speaker network – any way we can get people to realize the importance of trucking to them and the State of Iowa.

On my wish list is to get a rooftop patio on top of the IMTA building to use for meetings and lunches to showcase the IMTA. The view would be great, and it would make the IMTA more fun!

9

hat is the most frustrating aspect of W your job as a trucking company owner?

Dealing with people who do not have the passion and drive for their job.

10

ho were your mentors and how did W they prepare you for your current position at DMTC and IMTA?

I would definitely say my parents. My father was a big picture kind of guy who would want you to take calculated risks. My mother, on the other hand, worried about the day-to-day things. She was a

Steve Schuster (Schuster Company) awarding Jack a hole prize during the Truck PAC Iowa Golf Outing.

product of The Great Depression and never forgot where she came from regardless of how successful they were. How did that prepare me? Trucking is a high-risk, low rewards industry. What I mean is, with one accident everything could be gone. Low rewards that our margins generate pennies on the dollar. So, every day, you just go out there, try your hardest, put your company in position to be successful, treat everyone with respect and then hope there is a God.

11 12

Describe yourself in 3 to 5 words.

Typical middle child

13

I f you could have a conversation with someone either dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Probably, FDR. He faced so many obstacles that Americans had never experienced before: The Great Depression, WW II, and developing an atomic bomb all the while being handicapped. He often skirted the rules by invoking Presidential power to avoid the other two branches. Obama and Trump both attempted to take some of these lessons out of FDR’s playbook.

14

15

I f you could do anything else or have the perfect job what would it be?

16

What is your favorite truck?

17

What is your favorite IMTA event?

Play professional soccer for Sporting KC.

y dad bought two matching 1977 Cabover M Petes with 400 Cummins engines from an Idaho logging operation. Sweetest ride and that was a lot of power back then.

I like the golf event, but the Management Conference is my favorite. It gives you time to meet with other truckers casually and there are always a couple great sessions.

Describe your “perfect” day away from the office.

Being on the bike by 6 am for an 80-mile RAGBRAI day with the wind behind you and the temperature at 75 degrees. Getting finished by 4 and rehashing the days events around the campsite with your buddies and a couple cool ones. Then, your wife showing up and whisking you away to your own bed, shower and bathroom and of course dinner with her!

What are your guiding principles and how do you rely upon those not only while leading members but also your own staff?

To be honest and fair with everyone while directing them to accomplish the group’s goals.

Jack & his wife Wendy before the Chairman’s Awards Gala at the 2018 Management Conference.

18

hat book are you currently reading W or if you aren’t a book reader, what magazine or blog do you follow on a regular basis to provide you with personal and professional guidance?

I finished The President is Missing on my last flight and started Bob Woodward’s book, Fear. Of course, any Tom Clancy book because I think I am Jack Ryan.

19

What motivates you on a daily basis?

20

ell us one thing that most people T don’t know about you.

robably my three grandchildren under the P age of three, along with my daughter living in our home. Now with my wife retiring at the end of the school year, I really do not need any more motivation.

I still referee high school soccer.

21

Why don’t you ever tie your shoes?

I worked 8 years for CSX Railroads and wore a button-down shirt, tie and suit, along with Florsheim wingtips every day. After I quit, I hardly ever tied my shoes again.

ISSUE 1, 2019

7

CORNERSTONE SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR 2019 CORNERSTONE SPONSORS As of January 30, 2019 $25,000

PLATINUM

$12,000

SIGNATURE

$8,000

Harrison Truck Centers

Midwest Peterbilt Group

Interstate PowerSystems

PATRON

MHC Kenworth

McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C.

Midwest Wheel Companies

O’Halloran International, Inc. / Quality Services Corp.

Thompson Truck & Trailer, Inc.

PrePass

Truck Country

$5,000

ASSOCIATE

$2,500

BMO Transportation Finance

Allied Oil & Tire Company

Renewable Energy Group

Cornhusker International Trucks

Bauer Built Tire

Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc.

Gatr Truck Center

Bridgestone Commercial Solutions

RSM US LLP

Housby

Dave Syverson Truck Centers

Thermo King Christensen

Kwik Trip / Kwik Star Inc.

Donaghy - Kempton Insurors

Truck Center Companies

Lube-Tech & Partners, LLC

Engles, Ketcham, Olson & Keith, P.C.

Truckers Insurance

Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, Inc. /

Hanifen Company, Inc.

US Cargo Control

Keizer Refrigeration

Majestic Truck Center

Valley Distribution Corp

Thermo King Sales & Service

Northland Insurance Co.

COLLEAGUE

TrueNorth Companies Wilson Trailer Company

Want to see your company listed as an IMTA Cornerstone Sponsor?

Contact the IMTA at 515-244-5193 or visit www.iowamotortruck.com

ASK THE MEMBERS

Q: When Do You Plan to Transition from AOBRDs to ELDs?

We plan to begin making the transition towards the end of Q2 to give us time to address any issues that may come up during the process with the equipment.

AARON NEW Solar Transport

Decker Truck Line intends to gradually transition to ELDs beginning April 2019 with a goal of being ELD compliant by September.

Decker has been training drivers, shop and office employees on the ELD mandate since March 2018.

JENNIFER LAWLER Decker Truck Line, Inc.

We are planning to transition from AOBRD to ELDs in late spring of 2019. We have been in contact with our PeopleNet account manager and this was the timeline they suggested for us.

We have already switched to ELD functions, really had no major problems with the change-over.

DICK CRAWFORD Brown NationaLease

JEN WILSON Sully Transport, Inc.

Our plan is to train and test late Q1 of 2019. We’ll then start to transition the rest of the company and have the fleet converted to ELD mode by mid-late summer.

JOHN HOLT Ruan Transportation

Some things are currently active that will be part of the final AOBRD rule already on the ELD system we have live. I would anticipate we will be live under the new rules by beginning of 4th quarter for the full fleet.

RANDY KOPECKY Don Hummer Trucking

ISSUE 1, 2019

9

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Dan Van Alstine Elected Vice Chairman of ATA Board Ruan’s President and COO Dan Van Alstine was elected vice chairman of the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Board of Directors at the association’s 2018 Management Conference and Exhibition.

DAN VAN ALSTINE

With his election to vice chairman, Van Alstine will move up the board’s leadership team, eventually serving as chairman of the board in 2023.

“I’m honored to be elected vice chairman,” Van Alstine said. “The ATA is a tremendous advocate for the trucking

industry, promoting policies that enhance highway safety, security, sustainability, and profitability. I am excited to continue the efforts with industry leaders to promote the critical importance trucking plays in moving our economy, as well as working with the talented ATA staff and locking arms with ATA officers.”

Van Alstine is serving as the IMTA’s first vice chairman.

Next year, Dan will be elected chairman of the IMTA’s Board of Directors.

Panama Transfer Likely First in Nation to Go All Solar Panama Transfer has adopted a 100 percent solar philosophy in all of their Iowa locations to help power their business by providing clean, renewable energy.

Co-owner Dean Kloewer has had a lifelong interest in solar power and going green. It was this interest that spurred his decision to investigate the renewable energy source for Panama Transfer’s own use. Kloewer said, “Today’s solar products are so much better. Our vendor offered a 30-year warranty; that factor plus tremendous tax incentives allowed us to make this more than $1 million investment in solar

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

power possible. We’ve been told we are the only 100 percent solar trucking firm in the nation, and we’ve also invested in 22 electric forklifts that are powered by the solar panels. We are hoping in the next 10 years to have electric trucks as well.”

Co-owner, Mark Crall, said they anticipate the payoff at their Richland and Wellsburg terminals to be in under three years and Panama around six years.

L-R: Dean Kloewer and Mark Crall

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Ruan Plans to Build $9 Million Facility in Ankeny Ruan Transportation recently announced plans to build a $9 million operations and training center in Ankeny, Iowa. This new location will create at least 40 new jobs. It plans to relocate more than 100 additional positions from offices in Des Moines to the Ankeny facility once it opens.

Ruan President and COO Dan Van Alstine said the company has been looking for a place to expand and add training space for drivers and office staff. “In our industry, finding people – drivers and office folks – is

TrueNorth Recognized for Outstanding Performance TrueNorth Companies has been named a Premier Partner by EMC Insurance Companies, which means the agency is one of the highest-performing EMC agencies in the country. This designation places the agency in the top five percent of all EMC agencies nationally.

The Premier Partner award is based on key indicators including retention, profitability and growth, which are reviewed over a three-year period.

EMC developed its signature Agency Performance Value (APV) tool in 2005 to measure an agency’s performance against all other EMC agencies nationally. Agencies are evaluated on loss ratio, premium volume, policy and premium growth, policy and premium retention, and EMC’s position on the agency.

a real challenge, and this facility is going to be extremely beneficial in trying to attract individuals,” Van Alstine told Ankeny officials.

The two-story building will be located on the northwest corner of Southeast 72nd

Street and Southeast Corporate Woods Drive in Ankeny’s Crosswinds Business Park.

Construction is scheduled to begin early this year and conclude in fall 2019.

SOURCE: Des Moines Register

Britton Transport Awarded TCA Fleet Safety Award The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has selected 18 companies as division winners in its 43rd Annual Fleet Safety Awards.

Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, the awards recognize trucking companies who have demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to safety. The top three winning companies in each of six mileagebased divisions had the lowest accident frequency ratios per million miles, annually.

IMTA member Britton Transport was recognized as the 2nd safest fleet in North America when compared against other companies in the 5 – 14.99 million miles category. In addition, Britton

Transport is invited to compete for one of two grand prizes – one for carriers with a total annual mileage less than 25 million miles, and the other for carriers with mileage greater than 25 million miles.

“Year after year, TCA’s members prove that safety is the top priority of the truckload industry through participation in the Fleet Safety Awards,” said TCA President John Lyboldt. “We are incredibly proud to recognize and showcase these fleets, which have maintained a superb safety record through their use of innovative programs to establish a culture of safety within their companies.”

Want to get noticed in the Lifeliner Magazine?

Email Janelle Stevens at janelle@iowamotortruck.com with your company’s special announcements, recognitions and press releases.

ISSUE 1, 2019

11

ECONOMIC UPDATE

What happened? Where we are now? Where are we going?

OUR LOOK BACK AND OUR LOOK FORWARD… A Little History Lesson - The 2009 through 2014 time frame was the first industrial led recovery in the U.S. since 1961. This industrial activity was driven by fracking. The success of that industry resulted in the dramatic expansion in the infrastructure and earnings of railroads, the chemical industry, the plastic industry, pumps and cranes, domestic machine tool and die companies, to name a few.

This activity came to an abrupt halt in the fall of 2014 as oil fell dramatically in price below the marginal cost of its production via fracking. As oil climbed back above $45 a barrel in the fall of 2016, fracking activity resumed and the industrial ‘mini-recession’ ended. Coincidentally and concurrently, equity markets began to reflate and millennials finally began to form households in meaningful volumes. As a result, we are currently in an environment in which the U.S. industrial and consumer economies are both growing.

Where are we in the cycle? Obviously, this isn’t the beginning of the recovery with the economy just starting to climb out of the recession as it was in 2010 and 2011, but with the ‘mini-recession’ of the industrial economy just ending in the fall of 2016, we are only 26 months into the expansion of the industrial cycle. Since the consumer really didn’t recover from the 2009 recession, for more than 6 years in a ‘slow growth, no growth mode’ with consumer spending growing at less than one-half of one percent a year on a compound annual basis, until the fall of 2016, we are only 24 months into the expansion of the consumer cycle. Dissecting

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

ment, and provided significantly lower cost to repatriation of overseas earnings.

As a result: »» More than 450 large companies announced pay raises, bonuses, and better benefits; »» Most publicly traded companies increased earnings guidance as a result of the lower tax rate, which in turn buoyed their marketplace equity values;

DONALD BROUGHTON

Founder of Broughton Capital

the U.S. economy in this manner, leaves us dismissive of those whose predictions of a recession in 2019 because we are ‘so long in this cycle.’

WHAT CREATED THE EXTRAORDINARY PRICING POWER FOR TRUCKING IN 2018?

Capacity Constrained – already constrained, before the December 2017 imposition of the rule requiring ELDs, further constrained capacity at varying rates in each mode (Dry Van, Reefer, and Flatbed) and to varying degrees in fleets of different sizes.

The ability to learn how to use them and regain some or all of the lost productivity also varied and evolved throughout the year.

Surging Demand – the December passage of the “2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act” (TCJA) lowered the federal corporate tax rate to 21%, allowed for bonus depreciation on a wide range of new capital invest-

»» A s result of the increased after-tax cash earnings expectations and in order to capture the bonus depreciation, most companies increased their capital expenditure budgets for 2018; »» More overseas earnings were repatriated in the first six months of 2018, than in the entire years of 2015, 2016, and 2017 combined.

All this served to drive healthy increases in consumer income and the value of retirement plans, which in turn helped drive the willingness of both boomers and millennials to increase their spending. With WTI oil above $60 a barrel, the TCJA, and equity market rally, the U.S. saw pronounced accelerations in the industrial economy, the consumer economy, the financial markets, and the technology economy (which the U.S. still dominates globally), especially in the first half of 2018.

Where We Are Now? The history books will say many things about 2018, but whatever else is recorded, it will go down as the strongest year on record for spot and contract pricing increases in the history of trucking in the U.S. The surging demand in both the industrial and consumer economies collided with a truck-

ing marketplace that was struggling with capacity constraints before the ELD rule was imposed. Predictably, pricing power exploded, first in the spot market and in turn in the contract market. After spot market rate increases of over 30% in Dry Van and Reefer, and spot market rate increases of over 25% in Flatbed; which were followed by contract rate increases of over 15% in all three modes – the logical question becomes, “Can rates actually increase over the rates of 2018?” For many in trucking, who over the last several decades grew accustomed to thinking of pricing increases of more than 5% as ‘very high,’ achieving price increases in 2019 seems difficult to imagine. Obviously, the eventual outcome will depend on whether economic demand continues to grow (and at what rate it grows), and how whether capacity continues to expand (and at what rate it expands), but we believe continued rate increases in 2019 are a real probability.

WHERE ARE WE GOING? Our Prediction: Perhaps not as dramatic as 2018, but sustained.

Continued economic growth - We just completed the first two years of the expansion in both the industrial and consumer economies, and there aren’t broad or large

excesses which need to be addressed. Failing a prolonged trade war with China, or other unpredictable external force another year of economic growth in the U.S. in the 2.5% to 3.0% range seems achievable. Growth at the rate achieved in 2018, especially the rate achieved in the first half of 2018, seems unrealistic, but sustained growth is the most likely scenario. The longer freight flows in all the various modes continue to grow, the more our confidence in this outlook grows.

Demand exceeds capacity – not to the extent it did in the first half of 2018, but there are still more loads than trucks throughout most of the trucking industry.

The current DAT Dry Van Trucking Freight Weekly Barometer (55.0 in the week ending December 29) has been highly correlated with spot market price increasing by more than 10% in the coming year. The ultra-high spikes in spot market pricing in early 2018 may put this prediction to the test, but the point remains, “if there are more loads than trucks, then rates can still rise.” If spot rates rise in 2019, over the ultra-high spikes achieved in 2108, then the possibility of contract rates going up on top of the rate increases achieved in 2018 seems more imaginable. Contract rates increasing on a full year basis for 2019 by 3% to 5% seems achievable.

Continued capacity growth – if our outlook on pricing proves to be correct, then the industry will find ways of adding capacity.

Continued consolidation – inflation and interest rates will stay subdued, and the capital to fund acquisitions will remain accessible for most credit worthy transportation companies. Larger more successful players will continue to buy direct competitors and expand into other service offerings and geographies.

Only time will tell, but 2019 promises to be another very interesting year in the trucking marketplace.

Stay tuned …

Donald Broughton founded Broughton Capital in 2017, after spending over 20 years as a leading Wall Street analyst. Notorious as a hard-hitting forensic accountant, he uses ‘Sell’ ratings more often than any other Transportation analyst, and is highly regarded for his forecasts that translate goods flow data into economic forecasts. His stock-picking performance has been repeatedly recognized

by The Wall Street Journal as an “All-Star Analyst,”

by Forbes in its “When Picky Analysts Pick” series, and been ranked by Zacks Investment Research and Starmine as a 5-Star Analyst. He is a frequent guest on CNBC, the Nightly Business Report, CNN, Fox, NPR, and other broadcast media. Prior to going to Wall Street, Mr. Broughton spent almost a decade in various Distribution and Operations management roles in the beverage industry, including serving as the Corporate Manager of Distribution for the Dr Pepper / Seven-Up companies and Chief Operating Officer for Bevmark Concepts.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Iowa Trucking Industry Pays $4.3 Billion in Annual Wages According to new data released by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) and the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation (IMCF), the Iowa trucking industry pays over $4.3 billion in wages to employees each year. With 98,540 trucking jobs in Iowa, that amounts to an average annual salary of almost $44,000 per each individual working in the industry. One in every 13 jobs in Iowa are in the trucking industry.

“These numbers prove once again what the hard-working men and women in the industry already know; the trucking industry provides good-paying jobs and great career opportunities,” said Iowa Motor Truck Association President Brenda Neville.

The Iowa Motor Truck Association represents almost 700-member companies and Neville estimates that every one of those companies are in need of employees.

“While truck drivers are always needed, there is also a need for mechanics and a variety of office jobs such as accounting, safety, and administrative support,” said Neville.

“The folks that work in the trucking industry recognize that the industry is the backbone of the economy,” she said. To illustrate this importance, Neville cites the data from ATRI & IMCF that shows 73% of the total manufactured tonnage transported in Iowa is done exclusively by trucks and almost

70% of Iowa communities are also served exclusively by trucks to move and deliver the products that are needed daily.

“Trucks are the lifeline to many communities and delivering the products in a safe and professional manner is always a top priority.

All Iowans depend upon trucks. Essentially everything we buy was at some point on a truck and that is an important point that should never be forgotten. There is a tremendous responsibility required to move this state and nation and the dedicated, smart, hard working men and women who proudly work in the trucking industry enthusiastically embrace that responsibility,” added Neville.

Big Victory for Trucking – F4A Petition to DOT Granted The American Trucking Associations along with 50 state trucking associations, including IMTA commended Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao for granting the Federation’s petition to pre-empt confusing and duplicative state rest break rules, asserting the federal government’s critical role in regulating interstate commerce.

“This is a victory for highway safety, not trial lawyers,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “The trucking industry supports our nation’s economic growth by safely and efficiently moving goods across state lines, and this decision by the Department of Transportation will save jobs, unburden businesses throughout the supply chain and keep the prices Americans pay for food, clothing and countless other essential items affordable and accessible.”

In late September, ATA petitioned the DOT to pre-empt meal-and-rest break rules imposed by California, but primarily enforced via private lawsuits against motor carriers, on the grounds that a

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

BARRY POTTLE

CHRIS SPEAR

patchwork of rules related to driver hours of service harms safety, is in conflict with federal rules and causes “an unreasonable burden on interstate commerce.”

“We were forced to ask the DOT and the Secretary for this important, common sense solution because congressional dysfunction and gridlock prevented Congress from reasserting itself – as it had in 1994 – as the primary arbiter of interstate commerce, despite bipartisan, bicameral support,” Spear said. “We hope today’s ruling will once and for all underscore the importance of a single, national standard for work and safety rules for professional drivers.”

“For fleets like mine, knowing the rules will be the same for my drivers regardless of what state they’re delivering to is important,” said ATA Chairman Barry Pottle, president and CEO of Pottle’s Transportation. “I’d like to thank Secretary Chao for taking this step to make our highways safer by simplifying the lives and schedules of America’s truck drivers, but also recognize the efforts and persistence of the ATA staff who successfully built bipartisan consensus around solving this issue for carriers across the country.”

Many IMTA members have been impacted by the ongoing related to this issue, especially those that traveled to California frequently.

Other states were also starting to duplicate what California had done by creating separate meal and rest break rules.

“This is a huge victory for trucking. More and more IMTA members were reporting issues with separate rules in California and several members were also involved in lawsuits. This is a very big deal and we are grateful to finally have some resolution,” said Jack Sawyer, DMTC and IMTA Chairman of the Board.

INDUSTRY NEWS Two New Congresswomen Representing Iowa

Chamber of Commerce: National Gas Tax Increase Possible In 2019

Iowa has two new faces in Washington D.C. as a result of the 2018 elections.

Democrat Abby Finkenauer defeated Congressman Rod Blum in the First District and Democrat Cindy Axne defeated Congressman David Young in the Third District.

Abby Finkenauer captured 51% (170,342) of the votes. Blum walked away with 153,442 votes or 46% of the votes. Cindy Axne secured 55% (175,642) of the votes, while Congressman Young had 167,932 votes or 47% of the votes.

The first and third district races were some of the most expensive congressional races in Iowa’s history and resulted in evenly splitting Iowa’s representation in D.C. to 3 Republicans (Ernst, Grassley & King) and 3 Democrats (Axne, Finkenauer & Loebsack) Incumbents Congressman Loebsack and King retained their seats. Loebsack walked away with 55% (171,434) of the votes while King captured 157,607 (50%) votes and defeated a tough opponent JD Scholten. Scholten secured 147,223 (47%) of the votes in the Fourth District.

A key Chamber of Commerce official expressed confidence a gas tax increase would pass the House and Senate if brought to the floor.

ABBY FINKENAUER

CINDY AXNE

Given the number of issues that continue to brew in D.C., IMTA will continue to focus on building relationships with elected leaders in D.C. The association hosts an annual trip to Washington where a delegation of IMTA members are invited to attend. Additionally, IMTA staff will be in Washington D.C. on numerous occasions throughout the year.

“Trucking issues are most generally non-partisan so we work very hard to establish a positive working relationship with all of our elected officials in D.C. Trucking is important to the State of Iowa and the Iowa delegation recognizes that and are typically very welcoming and attentive to our needs,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

“With the president’s support and bipartisan support in the House, with an openness and willingness among some of the Republican leaders in the Senate, there’s definitely a path forward for getting this done,” said Neil Bradley, chief policy officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, at a press conference in January.

Bradley noted that Senate Commerce Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) has been open to a gas tax hike. (In the fall, Wicker said he’d consider a gas tax hike if President Donald Trump voiced support for it publicly.) Bradley also said it has support among congressional Democrats, “who now set the agenda.” However, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has said he opposes increasing the gas tax.

“If an increase in the user fee came up for vote in the House, not only would it have 218 votes, it would have 218 bipartisan votes,” Bradley said.

“So this is very much a doable thing, if we can actually just get it to a vote.”

SOURCE: Politico

Iowa DOT Announces New Truck Parking Availability System Truck parking in Iowa may have just gotten easier, according to Iowa DOT officials.

Iowa DOT, in coordination with seven other states, recently launched a new data-driven system to help commercial drivers easily locate available truck parking at both staterun rest areas and select private truck stops around the Midwest.

can be utilized by application developers, in-cab navigation system makers, and others wishing to utilize the parking information.

Access to the data feeds can be found on www.trucksparkhere.com. In the very near future, available parking locations will be added to the rest area layer on Iowa’s traveler information sites and mobile apps at www.511ia.org.

Iowa’s system called “Trucks Park Here” will make commercial drivers aware of available parking along Interstate 80 and portions of I-380, I-35, I-235, and I-29. The data is currently accessible through public data feeds that

“Trucks Park Here” will collect truck parking availability data using a variety of in-pavement and parking lot entrance/exit sensors. All eight states involved in the project have worked to make data showing available parking

consistent, however, each state is taking a little different approach on where the data is displayed. While some states are using more sign-based approaches like placing information on digital message boards on the roadway, in Iowa a more technology-based approach was developed.

This initiative was funded through a $25 million federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant that was awarded to eight states; Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

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INDUSTRY NEWS John Minor Named to Aftermarket Hall of Fame Longtime Midwest Wheel Companies’ leader John Minor was inducted to the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Hall of Fame at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) 2019 in Las Vegas.

A Minnesota native, Minor was hired by another Aftermarket Hall of Famer Jim Callison to the Iowa-based Midwest Wheel in 1972. Minor moved through the business rapidly, being named the company’s sales manager in 1978 and general manager of the business in 1980. Now serving as the company’s president and CEO, Minor has helped Midwest Wheel grow from 20 employees when he was hired to more than 200 associates today.

“I am honored and humbled to be named to the Aftermarket Hall of Fame,” Minor said.

“I truly believe it takes many people, not just one person, to accomplish great things.

This recognition belongs to every team member at Midwest Wheel Companies.”

Throughout his career with Midwest Wheel, John has been a very active member of the Iowa Motor Truck Association and the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation. John has also served on the IMTA Board of Directors

IMTA President Brenda Neville with Midwest Wheel Companies leaders Jim Koester and John Minor.

and served on many IMTA committees and special task force assignments over his almost 4 decades of involvement with IMTA. “I have had the pleasure of working with John my entire career at IMTA and he illustrates what it means to be an involved and committed member and leader. John is one of those people that more often than not would reach out to me with an idea or some feedback before I could call him. He is always thinking of ways to

impact the trucking industry as well as the association. He is a great leader and friend to Iowa’s trucking industry, the association, and to me personally,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

Honored, valued and admired for his incredible leadership skills, John was described in the award ceremony by John Mikkola, his friend of 50 years, as “innovative, inspiring, intense, and fearless in his pursuit of excellence.”

Survey: Confidence in Iowa’s Economy Continues into New Year Business leaders are looking ahead, and they like what they see, say survey results released in late December by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI).

challenge for Iowa businesses,” said Ralston. “It’s been that way for many years, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon.”

“If the outlook for Q1 is any indication, 2019 will be a banner year for Iowa businesses,” said Mike Ralston, ABI president. “Q1 often sets the tone for the entire year, so we’re off to a great start.”

ABI quizzed its board members in December 2018. The survey found:

Despite the new year approaching, old obstacles persist for ABI members.

“Attracting and retaining a skilled workforce continues to be the biggest View complete survey results at https://bit.ly/2zWHMbD

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

»» 72% of survey respondents expect sales to expand over the next year.

21% expect sales to stay the same. »» 55% of survey respondents expect the number of employees in their business to grow over Q1. 41% expect the number to stay the same. »» 97% of survey respondents plan to make capital expenditures in Q1.

That’s up from 65% for Q4 in 2018.

»» A shortage of skilled labor, along with rising material costs and tariffs on raw materials, were top issues for Q1.

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) has been the voice of Iowa business since 1903. Its mission is to provide a strong, unified voice to business and industry on issues affecting Iowa employers. ABI is comprised of 1500member companies of all types and sizes in all 99 counties employing more than 333,000 Iowans. IMTA is a member of ABI and works closely with ABI in advocating for a pro-business environment.

SOURCE: Association of Business and Industry

Transitioning from AOBRDs to ELDs:

L

STORY: BRENDA NEVILLE

ast December, when the final rule for the ELD mandate was published, the industry reacted in a variety of ways. There was enthusiasm and support by some carriers, anger and resentment by others, and some that simply refused to accept the new rule. Regulators were then slapped with exemption requests at a dizzying rate and even some of our lawmakers in D.C. were brought into the fray when segments of the industry demanded legislative action.

Implementation and understanding of the ELD rule has not been a smooth transition and regulators admit it has been much more difficult than even they anticipated. IMTA continues to get calls on a weekly basis on ELDs, and confusion and frustration remains.

“We made education and training on the ELDs a top priority and despite our best efforts, there is still confusion and frustration among the membership on this topic,” said Jordan Bjerke, IMTA’s Membership Manager.

And the possible confusion and frustration is probably going to continue as the December 16, 2019 date looms ever closer. On December 16, 2019, carriers and drivers using Automatic Onboard Recording Device

(AOBRD) technology will be required to convert to the required ELD technology.

In a recent IMTA poll of 150 carriers, 34 carriers (22%) reported that they were still using AOBRD technology with only 10 carriers reporting that they had installed ELD technology.

“We continue to get calls from members who have decided they are going to wait as long as possible to make the switch and we are really discouraging people from doing that. You would think that this is as simple as “flipping a switch”, but it’s not. The two technologies are completely different, as are the regulations governing them. For these reasons, postponing

“While carriers are in the transition period, it’s important to ensure drivers are aware of what type of device they have (AOBRD vs ELD). This makes a difference during a roadside inspection when the driver is requested to transfer the hours of service data. We are seeing many carriers creating customized instruction sheets to assist drivers with this process and that is a valuable and important step in the education process.”

DAN HORVATH ATA VP of Safety

IN A RECENT IMTA POLL OF 150 CARRIERS,

ONLY 10

REPORTED THAT THEY HAD INSTALLED ELD TECHNOLOGY.

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addressing this transition could lead to driver confusion, management errors and negative consequences in both the short and long term,” said Don Egli, IMTA’s Director of Safety and Compliance.

“We are really encouraging carriers to begin working with providers now, as compared to later in the year to ensure the devices will be compliant by the December 16th deadline. Upgrading from AOBRD to ELD in advance of the December 2019 deadline will allow time for driver training and to ensure there is a seamless process during a roadside inspection. This is something that carriers should not put off,” said Dan Horvath, VP of Safety for the American Trucking Associations.

To fully understand the impact of this change, it is important to know the key differences between AOBRDs and ELDs. AOBRDs were designed to meet regulations that have been in place since the late 1980’s. The technology covers basic recording functions, such as engine use, speed, miles driven, and dates and times to track a driver’s duty status in compliance with the hours of service regulations. AOBRD technology captures the data at each change of duty status.

ELDs, on the other hand, must meet much more stringent FMCSA guidelines. While they also automatically record the same information as an AOBRD, they are also required to have integral synchronization into a vehicle’s diagnostic port to accurately record vehicle motion activity, engine hours, power status, vehicle motion status, and location.

The ELD mandate requires that any time there is a driving event (and time the vehicle moves) an electronic log is created. Whereas an AOBRD might not automatically switch the driver log status to a driving mode until after a certain amount of distance, the ELD is required to automatically switch to a driving status after the vehicle reaches 5 miles per hour. The ELD is also required to update the vehicle’s location every 60 minutes while driving.

“There are some real differences in the two different technologies and having an understanding of those differences is critically important as a fleet makes the transition. Yes, the technology is different, but we believe the more critical issues are those that are not really related to the technology but related to your operation and the way you do things,” said Tom Cuthbertson, VP Regulatory Affairs with Omnitracs.

The non-technology challenges are the ones that have caused the most heartburn and will continue to create some hurdles for carriers. ELDs potentially can impact

“There are some real differences in the two different technologies and having an understanding of those differences is critically important as a fleet makes the transition. Yes, the technology is different, but we believe the more critical issues are those that are not really related to the technology but related to your operation and the way you do things.”

TOM CUTHBERTSON VP Regulatory Affairs with Omnitracs

a variety of people and departments within a trucking company. Everyone from safety to training to dispatch need to be on the same page when it comes to the ELD technology. Furthermore, shippers and receivers need to be educated and informed on the technology and, of course, the driver needs to have a good understanding and comprehension of ELDs and the role they will play in the normal course of a day.

Safety and compliance personnel can expect changes to log editing, log certifications, and how to handle unassigned driving miles. Under the ELD rule, drivers have more control over their information and must approve any edits made by back office staff made on behalf of the driver.

This is a significant change for drivers. Drivers will be required to certify each day’s logs and can accept or reject office staff edits. For roadside inspections, the daily certifications have already become a hot issue.

Officers are focusing on driver log certification and writing it as a violation if a driver has not certified the previous day’s log.

“The number-one point of confusion on roadside inspections is whether the driver has an AOBRD or ELD,” said Joe DeLorenzo, Director of Office of Enforcement and Compliance for FMCSA as reported

by Freight Waves on August 27, 2018. “Sometimes the drivers don’t know which device they have installed.

The more you know the easier the inspection goes.

Knowing right off the bat whether you have an AOBRD

or ELD will make the inspection go much smoother and easier.”

The change from AOBRDs to ELDs will have a significant impact on data too. Due to the more stringent requirements of the ELD rule, ELDs display a lot more information on the driver’s daily log than an AOBRD does. The ELD mandate also requires that all electronic logging devices call attention to any unidentified driving. Even if a mechanic fixes something on the truck and then has to test drive the truck, it must be recorded and annotated.

In the same Freight Waves article, DeLorenzo emphasized the importance of annotations. “I think when we moved to ELDs, people forgot how to use annotations. Annotations are available, so we encourage people to use them to explain situations.”

In addition, if a truck equipped with an ELD has stopped moving for 5 consecutive minutes, and the driver has not responded to a prompt within 60 seconds, the ELD must automatically switch to an “On Duty-Not Driving” status. This is not required for AOBRD technology.

AOBRDs allow edits, including drive time, while ELDs do not allow edits of drive time. ELDs also will keep a copy of the original log, as it appeared prior to any edits, and will record who makes an edit and when.

All edits require an annotation as to the reason for the edit. All edits will be visible to DOT officers, including both logs, during roadside inspections.

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“It may not be what the carrier wants to hear but we are strongly suggesting that carriers make the switch now and really focus on education and testing the processes to make sure they work. This is a major transition and a major change in the way things are done. It is going to take some time for everyone to adjust and taking advantage of this grace period is the best way to go.”

DON EGLI Director of Safety and Compliance with IMTA

AOBRDs and ELDs: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Feature/Function

AOBRD

ELD

Date Implemented

1988

Dec. 16, 2019

Data Recorded

Engine Use, Speed, Miles Driven, Dates & Times to track

Same information as AOBRDs. Integral synchronization with diagnostic port also records vehicle motion activity, engine hours, power status, vehicle motion status, and location.

Hours of Service (HOS) Driver Advisory Messages

Not Addressed

HOS limits notification is not required. “Unassigned driving time/miles” warning must be provided upon login.

Driver Logs

Allow edits, including drive time. Required at each change of duty status.

Manual or automated.

Requires automated entry at each change of duty status, at 60-minute intervals while truck is in motion, at engine-on/off instances, and at beginning and end of personal use and yard moves.

Clock Time Drift

Not addressed

ELD time must be synchronized to Universal Coordinated Time (UTC); absolute deviation must not exceed 10 minutes at any time.

Device “Default” Duty Status

Not addressed

On-duty not driving status, when truck has not been in-motion for five consecutive minutes, and driver has not responded to an ELD prompt within one minute. No other non-driver-initiated status change is allowed.

SOURCE: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

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“While carriers are in the transition period, it’s important to ensure drivers are aware of what type of device they have (AOBRD vs ELD). This makes a difference during a roadside inspection when the driver is requested to transfer the hours of service data. We are seeing many carriers creating customized instruction sheets to assist drivers with this process and that is a valuable and important step in the education process,” said Dan Horvath, ATA VP of Safety.

CONSIDER MAKING THE SWITCH SOONER RATHER THAN LATER IMTA is encouraging its membership to make the switch to ELDs prior to December 2019 to take advantage of the technology and to get any bugs out of the system prior to the deadline. As with any new process, there are always bugs to fix and beginning the process now will provide carriers the freedom to address these issues and thoroughly train their drivers and personnel while still in the AOBRD grace period.

“It may not be what the carrier wants to hear but we are strongly suggesting that carriers make the switch now and really focus on education and testing the processes to make sure they work. This is a major transition and a major change in the way things are done. It is going to take some time for everyone to adjust and taking advantage of this grace period is the best way to go,” said Don Egli, Director of Safety and Compliance with IMTA. The current list of self-certified ELD vendors includes over 400 suppliers. As you know, FMCSA has not vetted

these devices. They are self-certified by the vendor, who is stating that their device(s) meet the requirements of the ELD rule. Most of these devices will meet the very minimum of the requirements while others will go beyond. Do your homework and make sure you are partnering with a supplier that meets your needs but more importantly has a good product. Increased complaints are coming into the IMTA office about products that are subpar and customer service that is even more of a nightmare. Some carriers have already changed or switched vendors due to issues with their first choice of provider. This has been a costly and unnerving experience and as the December 2019 deadline gets closer, IMTA anticipates even more issues to emerge.

“Carriers are busy, and this is the last thing they want to deal with but finding the right vendor for their specific operation is imperative. Taking time to really test the system, identify the issues and get the processes in place that ensure a smooth transition takes a lot of time, patience, and commitment. But if you invest in the process now, it will pay off in the long run,” said Don Egli.

The transition from AOBRDs to ELDs is a big deal and while it may seem easier to put this off as long as possible, it is not the responsible approach and the consequences of delaying an effort to move to ELDs will prove to be significant and far-reaching.

“The trucking industry is no stranger to changes and a regulatory environment that can be challenging and frustrating. But 90% of the carriers I talk to, recognize that this is a change that needs to be made and I believe that many IMTA members will be ready for the December 2019 date because they understand their responsibility to move freight in a professional and safe manner,” said Don Egli, IMTA Director of Safety and Compliance.

IMTA will continue to work with its membership and will also be offering educational sessions throughout the upcoming months to offer guidance and assistance with the AOBRD and ELD transition.

Transitions of any kind can be a challenging time for any company. This ELD transition is no exception.

However, with the right preparation and plan in place fleets can make the transition from AOBRDs to ELDs in a timely and successful manner. We are transportation professionals. We Move America Forward by delivering the Nation’s freight to customers safely, efficiently, and on time.

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH TRANSITION

1 2 3 4

TRAINING

Ensure that everyone in your company has been properly trained on the ELD rule. The ELD rule brings a new guidebook to how trucking companies will do business. Make sure that everyone in the company is on board and ready to go from the drivers, dispatchers, safety personnel, maintenance technicians, office staff and even the CEO. This will take a strategic and committed approach to communication, education, practicing, and doing this again and again until it is right!

ASSESS YOUR FLEET AND OPERATION

Developing a strategy on how business is going to be done relative to your specific operation. How are you going to deal with situations relative to your ELDs? More importantly, how are you going to react to these situations? Every fleet is different, every operation is different. You must identify the needs of your operation and then put together a plan of action to be prepared for every possible scenario with ELDs. Being prepared for the “hiccups” is important.

THOROUGHLY RESEARCH

Research your ELD provider and work with them on the transition. If your provider is not ready or able to provide you some direction and advice on making the transition, you may want to consider another provider. Some AOBRD providers are not ready to “flip the switch” from AOBRD technology to ELD technology. Your provider should be the expert on this technology and should be able to demonstrate that expertise from your very first conversation. Having a great working relationship with your vendor is paramount in making the transition successful. Rely on your network of member contacts through IMTA and get recommendations from another carrier of their provider.

PLAN AND EXECUTE YOUR TRANSITION

Preparation is the key to success. The more prepared a company is to make the transition, the greater the likelihood of success. Have your policy updated so that everyone understands the direction you are going. Include specific responsibilities for all team members. Over communicate and over train your team.

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TAKE THE WHEEL and take the road at any Truck Country location.

For locations and hours, visit truckcountry.com.

TRUCK SALES | EXPERT SERVICE | PARTS | LEASING

EMPLOYEE & HUMAN RESOURCES

Allowing Culture and Top Talent to Grow and Strengthen Your Business Unemployment is at record lows and preferred talent is not searching the help wanted ads.

To target top talent, you need to have both an attractive culture, and the expertise to source and find top talent.

While pay is certainly of interest to many employees, pay alone does not attract and retain a company’s most talented employees. Several resources suggest that younger individuals new to the workforce are more concerned with finding a company that aligns with their personal values and offers a positive environment.

Great company cultures rarely form on their own. Most preferred employers had to work for many years to establish a positive atmosphere. Here are key points in creating an attractive culture.

Founder & CEO of Saige Partners

The first steps in creating a great company culture involves discussions and decisions about the foundational values of the business.

What does the organization want to be known for? How does the company’s overall mission align with the values of its employees?

It is critical that managers and leaders discuss their company culture. Is it one that inspires employees daily to work harder, generate new ideas, and surpass last year’s goals?

Does the organization value a healthy worklife balance? These are questions that must be answered when generating a set of values for the organization.

than being too specific. Business protocols and operations plans are necessary, but this level of detail should not be included in value statements.

While it is acceptable for a business to aspire to be like other organizations, the best company cultures are the one-of-a-kind, unique and authentic.

A company’s list of underlying values should be clear, concise, and understandable. Five or fewer foundational statements are often best.

Because company culture discussions often generate a long list of values, there may be a need to pare them down. In doing so, organizations should pick values that resonate with people at all levels of the company and are commonly understood. Including staff in this discussion is helpful.

IDENTIFY VALUES

TAKE ACTION

Those in charge of identifying company values should use broad statements rather

Once company values are created, it’s time to put these items into action. These messages

CREATE A STRONG FOUNDATION

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BRAD JONES

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

should be shared internally. They should be referred to regularly, and the actions of leaders should always align with the values. They should help guide hiring decisions and the questions posed to job candidates. Company values should influence organizational structure decisions and even impact the design of working spaces. For example, a company that values input from staff at all levels of the organization should seek to make managers accessible and more integrated with those charged with the day-to-day operations.

Company values and the targeted culture must be mirrored in everyday activities and communications. An organization that seeks to be transparent with employees should avoid letting staff learn of major changes about the company through outside connections or resources.

AVOID GETTING COMPLACENT Business values and company cultures require continued work and support. They can evolve over time.

Even companies that are well established can create a culture that generates pride among current employees while also attracting talented job candidates.

In the end, hiring the right people and creating a culture that allows employees to use their strengths and modify their weaknesses, is the ultimate key to success. In our business, we work very hard to understand the culture of the organization first and then learn about the requirements of the specific position.

Brad Jones founded Saige Partners in 2017. As founder and CEO of Saige Partners, he is committed to building lasting partnerships. Brad has 25 years of experience in the transportation industry. His extensive transportation background coupled with his strong entrepreneurial spirit was his motivation for starting a company that focused on providing top talent for the transportation industry.

NEXT GENERATION SPEAKS

Taking Your Leadership to the Next Level Over the course of more than 35 years of working, I have had the opportunity to attend several leadership classes and training events.

I am a strong believer in embracing training and education opportunities that allow me to improve my skills both personally and professionally. Being able to incorporate what I gain from these experiences into all aspects of my life is a top priority.

I was lucky enough to be able to participate in the 2018 IMTA Leadership Class and am now a member of the 2019 LEAD IMTA Council.

The IMTA leadership class is one of the best training classes I have attended, especially if you measure it in terms of real-life relatable information. Additionally, the class encourages you to get out of your comfort zone and that process makes you think about what leadership is really all about.

I have always been a believer that being part of the solution is important and because of that philosophy, I have always felt it was important to get involved. Leadership in your community is just as valuable as leadership in the workplace, they go hand in hand.

In today’s world, the smart companies are going to embrace that same philosophy and be supportive of training opportunities that not only provide additional education on a specific topic but more importantly, encourage leadership development.

Another characteristic of a smart company is a company that gets involved with their community. Although important, I’m not just talking about financial support.

There is never a shortage of requests for monetary assistance. I’m talking about volunteering time and talent in your local community. Coaching little league teams,

JEFF MARTIN

Green Products Company

teaching Sunday school classes, serving on school boards and many other ways you can help in your community. I know many of you reading this understand what I’m talking about.

When thinking about volunteering, and getting involved, you may think “I just don’t have time to do one more thing”. Start small, get involved with a small group and when comfortable, work your way into something else. You’ll be surprised how much time you have when you’re helping someone.

You may be thinking, “I’m just not good at that kind of stuff”. Well, it’s like anything, everyone starts somewhere. Put yourself out there. You will be surprised just how many talents you have that can help your community. Think about less obvious volunteer opportunities such as book keeping or helping a non-profit with marketing.

One important aspect of the IMTA leadership class is its focus on leadership in a broader spectrum and every graduate of the program is encouraged to not only

provide leadership within their company but in their community.

For many communities, the trucking company is contributing in a positive way by providing good paying jobs and a stable work environment, but their ability to take it a step further and provide leadership to the community is even more important.

That is what leadership is all about and that is the main takeaway of IMTA’s leadership program. Put yourself out there, put your company out there and I am confident that you will be amazed by the results.

I personally have found this to be true.

Making the time, taking that leap of faith, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone isn’t always easy but once you do it, it gets easier. Those of us in trucking have a great foundation on which to build. Think of what we deal with in our daily trucking operations. You are practicing leadership every day and sharing that with your community is the next natural step.

You have the tools, you just may lack the confidence so take advantage of programs like the IMTA leadership program to help you gain the knowledge and confidence to take the next step.

I challenge each of you to get involved in your community. Run for city council, school board, or whatever you find important. Share your talents and lend your leadership for the greater good. Not only is it good for the group you are helping, it will give you a real sense of satisfaction in every aspect of your life.

“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good” --Aristotle Jeff Martin is the Safety Director for Green Products in Conrad, Iowa. In addition to his duties at this Central Iowa trucking company, Jeff is also entering his 8th year serving as the Mayor of Conrad. Jeff sits on the LEAD IMTA Council and is active with the Iowa Council of Safety Management.

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IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Foundation Launches Major Fundraising Effort

JOHN SMITH

Admiralty Holdings

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In April of 2015, the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board of Directors decided to take a very bold and aggressive step in moving towards creating more relevancy.

The board of twelve voted unanimously to kick off a multi-million-dollar fundraising campaign. While the Foundation had been in existence since 1986 and had created a valuable scholarship program and invested in some public relations efforts, the scope of the Foundation increased tremendously when they retained ownership of the IMTA building and identified a need to be involved in research, education, and image efforts for the trucking industry.

“As we continued to have discussions with the board, we determined that the Foundation could complement and support the Association in a much more significant way.

Additionally, we recognized that the Foundation was also uniquely qualified to raise money because of the tax advantages to the donor. As everything started to evolve organically, we realized that we needed to embark on a bold fundraising campaign and a goal of $10 to $20 million emerged,” said Murry Fitzer, Florilli Transportation and Chairman of the Foundation.

On June 16, 2015, the Foundation board rolled out its vision to an audience of six potential donors. It was at that meeting that John Smith, Chairman of the Board with Admiralty Holdings (the company that

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

owns CRST International, Inc.), announced his support of the vision and offered up $5 million in a matching campaign. For every $2 million raised, Smith will donate $1 million up to $5 million. This pledge expires on December 31, 2020.

“I believe in what the Foundation is trying to accomplish. Essentially, through this campaign, we are ensuring that IMTA will have the resources far into the future to continue to be the voice of Iowa’s trucking industry. All the dollars raised through the Foundation will be used to support and complement the work of IMTA. The Foundation is also responsible for the IMTA building and that is a big deal. Our headquarters building is a visible symbol for Iowa’s trucking industry and the fact that it sits at the foot of our state capitol is pretty important too,” said John.

Over the last several years, the Foundation board has continued to identify folks that could potentially donate larger amounts.

Through that campaign and other fundraising activities, pledges and cash donations of more than $2 million have been secured.

With the 2020 deadline looming, the Foundation board continues to put a focus on its fundraising efforts while also overseeing projects that support the scope and mission of the Foundation.

“We recognize that as a Foundation we need to continually demonstrate our value and our mission in supporting and complementing the activities of IMTA. But in order to tackle some of our priority items, we also need funding so this is a delicate balance, but we are committed to our mission and we have great confidence that we will be successful in our fundraising efforts as well,” said Murry.

FUNDRAISING GOAL $10M

$8M

$6M

$4M

$2.175 MILLION

As of January 25

$2M

0

IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Why I Contributed to the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation (IMCF) WHY DID YOU MAKE THE DECISION TO DONATE TO THE IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION? Karen and I have two Foundations that we have a passion for and the IMCF is one of them.

The Association has given me so much over the last 40+ years. Through activities and/ or committees I’ve been involved with, they have enabled me to grow as a person both personally and professionally. Donating to the IMCF really made sense as a way of giving back a small portion of what I have gained from my involvement with the Association and the trucking industry as a whole.

WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST EXCITING ABOUT THE FOUNDATION AND ITS ONGOING EFFORTS? The Foundation is working very diligently at complimenting the efforts of IMTA. Always adding value in many areas financially, research, leadership, the IMTA building improvements, image campaign, legislature, regulations, education, membership growth, promoting the industry, etc. The list goes on and on in regard to the valueadded services the Foundation focuses its efforts on. Also staying on the cutting edge of the transportation industry’s concerns

Delwin & Karen Van Wyk support the Foundation through regular donations.

DELWIN VAN WYK Harrison Truck Centers

and how it may affect both carriers and supplier’s business culture.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL AN IMTA MEMBER THAT MAY BE CONSIDERING A DONATION TO THE FOUNDATION? With the current structured options for giving, there are several reasons to donate to the Foundation. Donating to the Foundation

and taking advantage of the ENDOW IOWA program makes sense as a portion of the amount donated receives a tax credit on the state level. If someone is looking to reduce their tax liability this is a perfect way to do so. ENDOW IOWA accepts non-cash gifts as well. Appreciated securities, real estate, business interest, personal tangible property, retirement plans, life insurance, or grain are accepted as well. Also, members can designate their donation to a specific project, such as the building improvements, scholarships, and/or research. Making a donation to the Foundation is a perfect way to give back to the industry and ensure that the Iowa Motor Truck Association will continue to be a viable and vibrant organization far into the future.

Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Continuing to Make A Difference!

2019 Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board CHAIRMAN Murry Fitzer Florilli Transportation

John Minor Midwest Wheel Companies

VICE CHAIRMAN Steve Schuster Schuster Company

Pat Storey Motor-Ways, Inc.

Dave Boyer Lube-Tech & Partners, LLC Dave Dickey Dickey Transport Gary Handley BTI Special Commodities

Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation Company Dave Van Wyk Van Wyk, Inc. Delwin Van Wyk Harrison Truck Centers Jeff Wangsness JMT Trucking

ISSUE 1, 2019

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ATRI UPDATE ATRI Solicits ELD Data for Industry Clearinghouse The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has launched its initiative to collect and warehouse anonymized electronic logging device data. With universal deployment of electronic logging devices (ELDs), the industry now has a new opportunity to document and address the many issues that impact driver and carrier safety, operations, and productivity using the more robust data available from ELDs.

REBECCA BREWSTER ATRI President & COO

Want to get more involved with ATRI? There are a number of ways you can be part of this vital industry organization: »» P articipate in ATRI’s research. When ATRI puts out a call for carrier data or asks for responses to an industry survey, take the time to participate. More is always better when it comes to research and we encourage you to join the growing number of motor carriers, professional drivers and industry suppliers who all regularly take part in ATRI’s studies. »» C ontribute to ATRI. Join your peers in the industry and STEP UP with a charitable contribution to support ATRI’s research. Giving is easy and can be done online at www.atri-online.org. »» S uggest a research topic. ATRI is always looking for new research ideas for the RAC to evaluate. »» J oin the RAC. Want to be involved in setting the trucking industry’s research agenda? Send us an email letting us know you want to be considered for a nomination to serve on the RAC. »» S pread the news. When ATRI releases research results, please Tweet, Facebook and otherwise share the findings with your colleagues and peer network so that everyone benefits from our work on behalf of the trucking industry.

“The new data generated by ELDs can provide a wealth of insight and research support to our industry,” said Andrew Boyle, Co-President of Boyle Transportation and ATRI Board Member.

“But we clearly need a trusted third-party facilitator to manage and monitor how the information is used. ATRI is uniquely suited to serve that role. In the right context, ELDs can provide the real-world data needed to guide future regulations and initiatives.”

ATRI Updates Idling Regulations Online The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) published its latest update of state and local idling regulations on its website, TruckingResearch.org. The listing is provided in two forms. An online compendium provides detailed information and hyperlinks to each of the 65 state and local regulations that have been identified.

A cab card is also available that provides a consolidated listing which can be downloaded and carried in the glove box of a truck.

Among the newly enacted regulations now included in the compendium are: 1. Madison, Wisconsin has a 5-minute idling limit with limited exemptions, one of which is if the temperature is less than 20ºF or more than 90ºF. Fines can range from $25 to $200.

2. Sandy City, Utah has a 1-minute idling limit with limited exemptions. Violators will be given up to three warnings before a citation not exceeding $750 can be issued.

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A number of trucking fleets have already shared their ELD data with ATRI to evaluate its potential for a number of critical industry analyses and ATRI is now looking for an expanded group of motor carriers who are willing to regularly provide anonymized ELD data to ATRI for the industry clearinghouse. Through the collection of anonymous, aggregated ELD data, ATRI hopes to support solid, thorough and scientifically valid analyses to address major industry problems.

The first step to become part of this important research effort is to provide a contact person for your organization. ATRI will then follow up with your designated contact person to give them more information on the project and how to submit ELD data. To provide the contact information please go to the ATRI website (http://truckingresearch.org) and follow the link attached to this research project.

Other regulations now listed in the compendium include Newark, Delaware; Ithaca, New York; Logan, Utah; and Summit County, Utah.

ATRI continues to monitor the development of idling regulations across the country and provides the compendium and cab card as a free service to help trucking companies and truck drivers comply with the myriad of state and local idling regulations.

“Even though enforcement tends to vary among jurisdictions, with areas such as California and New York City being more active, the regulations highlight communities that are concerned about emissions from idling vehicles,” explained Mike Tunnell, ATRI’s Director of Environmental Research.

“We urge trucking companies to be aware of these regulations not only to comply and avoid fines but to be good neighbors in the communities in which they operate.”

ATA UPDATE ATA Announces Hiring of Chief Commercial Officer Kevin J. Traver The American Trucking Associations (ATA) announced the hiring of Kevin J. Traver to serve as the organization’s Chief Commercial Officer. The newly created position will oversee membership sales and operations, product development and marketing for the association. Traver started in the new role on January 22nd.

KEVIN J. TRAVER

“Kevin has an impressive record of executive experience and strategic leadership and will be a tremendous asset to this association,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “The creation of this new position, being filled by someone with the skill set and vision that Kevin possesses, will serve our members well as we grow our organization and expand our suite of services.”

Traver comes to ATA after leading the Marine Technology Society as executive director, where he created and

implemented a new strategic plan for the organization and oversaw business development and corporate relations. In previous roles, he served as vice president of corporate affairs and development at the Navy League of the United States, executive director of the National Maritime Heritage Foundation, and director of corporate development at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role, and even more excited to be working on behalf of this great industry,” said Traver. “I look forward to working with the ATA team to develop new business opportunities that enable us to deliver maximum value for our membership.”

Traver graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1996 after serving eight years in the United States Marine Corps.

Trucking Moves America Forward Shines a Light on Industry’s Charitable Work Coast to Coast During Holiday Season Trucking Moves America Forward (TMAF), the industry-wide education and image movement, is sharing the industry’s honorable charity efforts during the holiday season after an industry-wide call for submissions through email and social media.

“From participating in efforts to feed the hungry and support our veterans, to collecting and delivering toys, shoes and other donations for those in need, the trucking industry has always taken great pride in giving back to the communities we serve,” said Kevin Burch, co-chairman of TMAF and president of Jet Express, Inc. “Our trucking companies, drivers and employees united to donate their time, money and supplies, to help others. TMAF is proud to share a collection of efforts of the organizations and companies who supported those in need this year this holiday season.”

To the right is just a partial list of trucking companies and industry organizations, consisting of all sizes and ranging in states from coast to coast, that are making a difference in American communities:

Trucking Companies Making a Difference »» American Trucking Associations’ America’s Road Team helped deliver the items necessary for the Snowball Express event hosted by the Gary Sinise Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps America’s veterans, first responders and their families. America’s Road Team transported the items for the event from Dallas, Texas to Orlando, Florida. »» American Trucking Associations’ Share the Road program participated in the Wreaths Across America convoy from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery carrying more than 3,900 wreaths to be placed on the graves of America’s fallen heroes. The convoy made stops in communities along the trip to Arlington, met with Gold Star Families, and showcased the important role trucking plays in honoring America’s fallen service members. ATA staff joined Share the Road truck drivers Nate McCarty and Ralph Garcia of ABF Freight to help disperse wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery. »» Albany, New York-based Bestpass collected items for “Goodnight Bags,” for a local human services agency. The “Goodnight Bags,” which include items such as small blankets, flashlights, sketch pads, color pencils, crayons and stuffed animals, help make a child’s stay at The Equinox Domestic Violence Shelter as homey as possible. Bestpass also provided support and donated services for other causes through its #BestpassGives community outreach program. »» CFI, out of Joplin, Missouri, donates to several charities, including Salvation Army, Bethany

About Trucking Moves America Forward Trucking Moves America Forward aims to establish a long-term industry-wide movement to create a positive image for the industry, to ensure that policymakers and the public understand the importance of the trucking industry to the nation’s economy, and to build the political and grassroots support necessary to strengthen and grow the industry in the future. To learn more, visit http://www.truckingmovesamerica.com. Also join and follow TMAF through social media, on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and Medium.

House, and Wilmer’s Initiative to Spread Hope.

This holiday season, CFI donated 51 Christmas trees to local schools, senior centers and Children’s Haven. CFI also donated to Wreaths Across America. »» Garner Trucking, based out of Findlay, Ohio, participated in the 13th Annual Helping Hands Food Drive coordinated with The University of Findlay, and provided two trucks, trailers and drivers to accommodate the food hauling of over 97,400 pounds of food. Garner Trucking also delivered a truckload of wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery and Maine for Wreaths Across America, and employees donated coats to a local Coats for Christmas campaign and adopted a veteran and his family for the holiday season.

ISSUE 1, 2019

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iow

tor t mo r ck u

a

Anniversary

as

soc

ia ti o

n

IMTA HISTORY BOOK Capturing the Rich History of the Iowa Motor Truck Association

This special history book was created for IMTA’s 75th Anniversary and is available to purchase today! As you page through this 304-page book, you will see the people, the places and read the stories that have made IMTA the organization it is today. And as a bonus, you will see photos and highlights from the 75th Anniversary Gala.

$100.00 Order Your Copy Today | (515) 244-5193 | iowamotortruck.com

IMTA EVENTS

Thanks to all the Allied Division members for attending and participating!

Allied Division Hosts Fun, New Event The Allied Division fall meeting had a new look and feel thanks to the input of our Allied leaders. Instead of a meeting, Allied members participated in a social event at Prairie Meadows featuring a bags tournament. Over 40 people participated in the event and enjoyed an afternoon of friendly competition and networking.

“This was such a great interactive event where you literally got to meet and network with everyone. It’s great to see so many

new faces,” said Allied Steering Committee member Mike Spalla, Kunkel & Associates.

Scott Busch and Gary Kunkel from Kunkel & Associates took home the first-place prize, with the Midwest Wheel Companies team of Kevin Flannery and Tom McKee taking home the second-place prize. In addition to the top team prizes, the team that tried their hardest but managed to come in last also received a fun prize, and that went to KC Routos and Larissa Weyer from Midwest Wheel Companies.

A special thanks to our Allied Steering Committee for their efforts in making the event such a success. The Allied Steering Committee is comprised of Scott Jones (Cummins Sales & Service), Delwin Van Wyk (Harrison Truck Centers) Mike Spalla (Kunkel & Associates), Jerry Bender (Midwest Wheel Companies), Dan Schwarz (McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith) and Bill Roth (Truck Country).

Complimentary Monthly Webinars Continue Into 2019 IMTA Chairman of the Board Jack Sawyer and IMTA President Brenda Neville participated in the January IMTA Member Webinar entitled 2019 Association Update. Jack and Brenda reviewed an abundance of information specific to IMTA’s priorities in 2019, but also reviewed the hits and misses of 2018. Well over 70 IMTA members registered for this informative webinar.

All IMTA members have the opportunity to participate in IMTA’s monthly webinar program. Through these webinars, IMTA members have access to the latest information on the hot topics of the moment, all from the comfort of their own office and at no charge.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Don Egli, Brenda Neville & IMTA Chairman Jack Sawyer prior to the start of the January webinar.

Upcoming Webinar Schedule March 21 Modern Recruiting in a Driver Shortage

May 16 Independent Contractors

April 11 Truck Driving Championships 101

June 6 Mid-Year Economic Update

July (specific date TBD) Non-Driving Job Recruitment

IMTA EVENTS Regulatory Officials Provide Valuable Information to ICSM Members As it typically does, the January ICSM meeting featuring our regulatory and enforcement agency partners once again hit a high note with ICSM members.

Shirley McGuire, Iowa Division Administrator of FMCSA, provided an update on the number of compliance reviews they completed in 2018 and gave a status update on regulatory issues such as Hours of Service, the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, and off-site reviews becoming a possibility in the summer of 2019. Chief Lorenzen of the Iowa DOT Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division talked about the future needs of the DOT, closed scales, truck parking

Keith Lamfers (Schuster Co.), Shirley McGuire (FMCSA), Captain Nathan Fulk (Iowa State Patrol), Chief Dave Lorenzen (Iowa DOT MVE), Sgt. Mike Kober (Iowa State Patrol), Marvin McGinnis (Casey’s General Stores)

concerns, the Highway Helper program, and 2019 legislative priorities for the DOT. Sgt. Mike Kober of the Iowa State Patrol MCSAP unit shared data about commercial vehicle inspections in 2018, trends in violations, and their use of new Lidar technology.

“This specific ICSM meeting alone is hands-down worth my ICSM membership

dues. The information and the one-on-one interaction with our regulatory folks is extremely valuable, and great information to take back to the office,” said Marvin McGinnis, Casey’s General Stores.

Want to be a member of the Iowa Council of Safety Management?

Contact the IMTA at 515-244-5193 or visit www.iowamotortruck.com

Combat Hunger Successful Thanks to IMTA Members Star 102.5’s Combat Hunger event is annually held the week prior to Thanksgiving with the support of the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

As a community-wide food and fund drive, Combat Hunger provides hungry Iowans with food during the winter months.

The IMTA is critical to this effort by providing straight trucks and drivers to travel throughout the Des Moines metro to collect donations from businesses and schools. Through their efforts, Combat Hunger was able to raise over 250,000 meals for Iowans in need.

Jordan Haywood and Randy Clyde (Hy-Vee) with an event volunteer

Thank you to the IMTA members who volunteered trucks and drivers for the largest food drive in the state of Iowa: Casey’s General Stores, FedEx Freight, Gatr Truck Center, Hy-Vee, Panama Transfer and Two Men and a Truck.

LEFT: Jeff Easley (Casey’s General Stores) with a Combat Hunger volunteer RIGHT: Doug Bear and Travis Nodgaard (Two Men and a Truck)

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IMTA EVENTS IMTA Leaders Gather for Fall Board Meeting This past fall, IMTA leaders and invited guests convened at the IMTA headquarters for the annual fall Board of Directors meeting. Newly elected Chairman of the Board Jack Sawyer, Des Moines Transportation Co., presided over the meeting which included welcoming newly elected board members, approval of the 2019 IMTA budget, various speakers and recognitions, and an association update from IMTA President Brenda Neville.

IMTA welcomed back a familiar face with Donald Broughton, an economist with Broughton Capital LLC, highlighting a number of key factors contributing to the current economic environment here and abroad. In addition to Donald, Jake Ketzner and Patrick Rynard were in attendance to provide insight on the new legislative landscape stemming from the 2018 elections. Lastly, Mark Lowe, Mitch Dillavou and Scott Marler all from the Iowa Department of Transportation gave an update on several DOT projects ranging from electric vehicles, automated vehicles, legislative priorities, and current and future road construction projects.

At the conclusion of the meeting, IMTA’s 2018 Platinum Sponsors were recognized and thanked for their tremendous support.

The IMTA also took time to recognize the Image Campaign 2.0 winners, Harrison Truck Centers and Ennis Corporation.

Thanks to these two companies, and all participating image campaign companies, communities around Iowa were shown firsthand the impact that trucking makes to their communities, the state and the nation.

Melinda Anderson (Ennis Corp.) accepting the top carrier image campaign prize from IMTA Chairman Jack Sawyer (Des Moines Transportation Co.).

Delwin Van Wyk and Dave Nelsen (Harrison Truck Centers) proudly displaying their image campaign prize for the top allied participant.

Jake Ketzner (Ketzner Strategies), IMTA Chairman Jack Sawyer (Des Moines Transportation Co.), Patrick Rynard (Iowa Starting Line)

Mark Olson (Olson Explosives) and Steve Schuster (Schuster Co.) LEFT: Economist Donald Broughton (Broughton Capital LLC)

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IMTA EVENTS IMTA Education & Events IMTA Leadership Class Sessions 1 & 2 – Wednesday, March 6 & Thursday, March 7 Sessions 3 & 4 – Tuesday, April 16 & Wednesday, April 17

IMTA President Brenda Neville, Sgt. Mike Kober (Iowa State Patrol), Eric Staskon (Navistar, Inc.), Jerry Bender (Midwest Wheel Companies), Don Egli (IMTA)

Kicking Off the Holiday Season The IMTA once again started the holiday season off on the right foot with the annual holiday open house at the IMTA headquarters. Members from across the state and various supporters of the trucking industry came together to celebrate the upcoming holidays with food, festive spirits and plenty of networking.

This annual event allows the IMTA to show our appreciation to members for their tremendous support throughout the year and going forward into the new year.

Safety Professionals Conference Tuesday, April 9 & Wednesday, April 10 Regulatory Updates Seminars Tuesday, April 23 Eastern Iowa Location Wednesday, April 24 IMTA Office Thursday, April 25 Western Iowa Location Cargo Tank Seminar Wednesday, May 1 & Thursday, May 2 Board of Directors Meeting Friday, May 10

Morgan Steenhoek (IMTA), Delwin Van Wyk (Harrison Truck Centers), Dean Kloewer (Panama Transfer), Jeff Wangsness (JMT Trucking Co.), Dave Weber (Harrison Truck Centers)

Truck PAC Iowa Golf Outing Thursday, May 23 Truck Driving Championships Thursday, June 13 & Friday, June 14 Altoona *NEW* Legal Symposium Wednesday, June 26 & Thursday, June 27 *NEW* Maintenance Technician Competition Wednesday, July 17 & Thursday, July 18 Altoona LEAD IMTA Conference Wednesday, August 7 & Thursday, August 8

ABOVE: Mark, Jenny and Jason Olson (Olson Explosives), Jordan Bjerke (IMTA) RIGHT: Brett Tjekpes (Iowa State Patrol), Brad Bailey (Central Trailer Service), Captain Nathan Fulk (Iowa State Patrol)

NATMI Certification Course August 26 - 30 Management Conference Tuesday, September 24 & Wednesday, September 25 Des Moines

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FINAL THOUGHT

Your Role in IMTA’s Legislative Efforts The 2019 Iowa legislative session is now in full swing and lawmakers from across the state are gathered in Des Moines to work on several important issues.

As you know, one of IMTA’s top priorities is advocacy and being the voice of the trucking industry at the State Capitol. This is a responsibility that we take very seriously and have since the Association was formed back in 1942.

In addition to our contract lobbyist, Dave Scott, IMTA staff meets and talks with legislators frequently. Dave is at the Capitol every single day and staff and volunteer leaders are up there typically once or twice a week as well.

Educating, informing, and building positive working relationships with legislators is at the heart of IMTA’s advocacy efforts.

Trucking is important to the State of Iowa and IMTA is continually reminding lawmakers of the value of trucking.

Every other week, lawmakers receive a personal email from IMTA. Within this email is a “Fun Fact” about the trucking industry and many legislators respond favorably to this information. Additionally, IMTA works closely with transportation committee leaders and committee members on transportation related issues and additionally monitors a variety of legislative initiatives that promote a pro-business environment in Iowa.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Example of the personal email that goes out to every legislator twice a month.

IMTA’s professional staff is committed to implementing an advocacy effort that is effective, engaging, and gets the results that are expected by the membership. However, there is another critically important component to IMTA’s advocacy efforts and that is involvement by the members.

Given the large footprint that trucking has in the State of Iowa, we have a great story to tell and only IMTA members can tell that story.

Do you know who your legislator is? If not, there is a very easy way to find that out, go to https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/find and there are five different ways you can find your legislator. Once you know who your legislators are – reach out to them. Tell them your story. Tell them about your company -- what you haul, how many trucks you have and most importantly, how many people you

employee and what your annual payroll is.

This is information that a legislator is very interested in.

After you make that first introduction, keep up the communication and continue to build a professional relationship with that lawmaker – whether you like them or not, whether you agree with them or not – having the ear of your state legislator is very important. You are a constituent so they will listen and appreciate the communication.

Invite the legislator to your company, let them see trucking in a very up close and personal manner. Get them in a truck and let them see the world from inside a cab.

Invite them to a driver’s meeting or your safety awards event, these are even more compelling ways that a legislator will learn about the trucking industry.

While the IMTA staff will always be implementing a very pro-active and engaging campaign of outreach, the personal touch that can only be provided by someone that is in the trenches every day strengthens our advocacy effort exponentially. The true power of an advocacy effort comes from the everyday, hardworking IMTA member that in the end has more power than anyone else because they go to the ballot box.

We have a great story to tell and we always need your help in telling that story.

Learn who your legislator is at www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/find

717 East Court Ave Des Moines, IA 50309