May/June 2021 Tracks Issue

Tracks

May/June 2021 Volume 34 Issue 3

Save the date for the 2022 Convention & trade Show www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

1

Tracks

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May/June 2021

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NATM Headquarters • 2420 SW 17th St. • Topeka, KS 66604 • (785) 272-4433 • Fax: (785) 272-4455 On the Cover: The 2022 NATM Convention & Trade Show will be held Feb. 1-3, 2022 in Tampa, Fla. For more information, turn to page 76.

Tracks

STAFF Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com Executive Director Kendra Ansley Kendra.Ansley@natm.com Assistant Director Meghan Ryan Meghan.Ryan@natm.com Marketing Director Savana Morrison Savana.Morrison@natm.com Technical Director Terry Jones Terry.Jones@natm.com

President’s Report...............................................6 Headquarter’s Report..........................................8

NATM Submits Comments on FMCSA Underride Guard Rulemaking..............10

Compliance Consultant Scott Crimmins Scott.Crimmins@natm.com

Open Invitation to the 2021 Regulatory Roundup..................................12

Compliance Consultant Sean Sloan Sean.Sloan@natm.com

NATM Companies Encouraged to Host Virtual Plant Tours......................................14

Bookkeeper Cindy Streeter Cindy.Streeter@natm.com Administrative Assistant II Catie Rutkowski Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com Administrative Assistant Abby Wiebler Abby.Wiebler@natm.com

OFFICERS President Marty Lorick Triple Crown Trailers Vice President Josh Johnson Big Tex Trailer Manufacturing, Inc. Treasurer Marco Garcia U-Haul International, Inc. Associate Member Representative Jim Berry, Dexter Axle Past President Owen Shelton BoatMate Trailers, Inc. DIRECTORS FEB. 2019 - FEB. 2022 Rick Coffey The Carlstar Group Patrick Jennissen Felling Trailers Carl Maxey MGS Incorporated–Ft. Collins DIRECTORS FEB. 2020 - FEB. 2023 Jim Berry Dexter Jon Devitt Midwest Indusries, Inc. Jeff Jones Statistical Surveys, Inc. Dustin Miller Cross Trailers, Inc. Mike Story LOOK Trailers

NATM Political Action Committee Updating Records for 2021.................................16 Why Your Dealership Should Celebrate Trailer Safety Week June 6-12 ...........................18 NATM Hosts Annual Membership Meeting.......20 Strategic Plan Update..........................................24 NATM Annual Report Sneak Peek.....................26 Year-Round Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available..............................28 NATM Welcomes Rutkowski as Administrative Assistant II................................. 30 NATM Welcomes Wiebler as Administrative Assistant................................. 32 NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide: Coming Fall 2021......................34 Maximizing Your Membership: Utilizing Membership Lists................................36 CAN-SPAM ACT...............................................37

Share Your Expertise! NATM Calls for Educational Articles and Presentations...............50

New 2021 Media Kit Available with Advertising Opportunities...........................52 Trailer Technology Trends Webinar Sponsored by Intellifinishing: May 20................ 54 Day in the Life of an NATM Compliance Consultant ......................................56 NATM Compliance Consultant Fun Facts..........58 Innovative Adhesive Solutions for the Trailer Industry........................................60 How Can Digitization Improve Industrial Welding Process Efficiency................62 NATM Affinity Programs....................................64 Leverage NATM Membership to Manage Health Care Costs.............................68 National Association of Manufacturers Launches COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign..... 70 OSHA Guidance on COVID-19 Prevention.......................................72 Your People are Your Most Powerful Resource. (Wait, My People?).............74 Save the Date for the 2022 Convention & Trade Show.................................76 Booth Selection Process for the 2022 NATM Trade Show....................................78

NATM Invites Members to Get Social...............38

Dealers Invited to 2022 Convention & Trade Show.....................................................80

Understanding the Importance of Inclusion in Your Onboarding Processes............40

2022 NATM Convention & Trade Show Schedule..........................................82

Recruiting and Retaining LGBTQIA+ Employees .....................................42

Celebrating Milestone Member Anniversaries........................................83

Statistically Speaking.......................................... 44

Member News.....................................................85

Stay Up-To-Date with The NATM Insider .........46

New Member Update..........................................93

DIRECTORS FEB. 2021 - FEB. 2024 Leo Akins Forest River, Inc. Lyle Berning Novae Corp.

Rick Huddleston White River Marine Group John Kerr Marsh & McLennan Agency

About this publication: Tracks Volume 34, Number 3 May/June 2021 is published six times a year (bi-monthly) for $50 per year by the NationalAssociation of Trailer Manufacturers, 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NATM 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604.

DISCLAIMER: The inclusion in this magazine of advertising, logos, or website links, or reference to any products, services, trade names, or manufacturers is not an endorsement by NATM of any such advertisers, links, entities, products, services, or names. NATM through this magazine provides news and opinion articles as a service to its members and readers. Often these articles come from sources outside of its organization. Statements and opinions expressed in these articles are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, its staff or management, or the official policies of NATM. Nor does NATM accept responsibility for any errors or omissions made in publishing or reproducing articles or advertising appearing in Tracks or for the return of unsolicited manuscripts sent to NATM. USPS Number: 022438

ISSN Number: 1552-2415

Advertisers’ Index

Tracks

A.L. Hansen Mfg. Co. ....................................................23

LINK Trailer Parts...........................................................15

Affiliated Resources, Inc.................................................59

Lippert Components, Inc.................Outside Back Cover

ASA Electronics..................................Inside Back Cover

Muro North America Inc...............................................39

Bludot................................................................................79

Natcon...............................................................................46

Bob Clements International...........................................91

Optronics International..................................................33

Bright Way Group, LLC..................................................71

Peerless Industrial Group...............................................25

CPR Systems....................................................................17

Powerbrace Corporation.................. Inside Front Cover

Curt Group................................................................. 55, 73

Premium Supply ....................................................... 47-48

Dec-O-Art, Inc................................................................43

Qingdao Highton Machinery Co., Ltd.........................45

Dexter Axle......................................................................53

REDARC Corporation....................................................68

East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc................................20

Redneck Trailer Supplies................................................5

Equalizer Systems...................................................... 66-67

Ridewell Suspensions......................................................31

H.E. Parmer Company, Inc............................................56

Rockwell American.........................................................77

Heskins, LLC....................................................................11

Tech Products, Inc. - Signs, Tags and Markers............22

Hutchens Industries, Inc................................................47

TGI-Direct........................................................................51

KampCo Steel Products, Inc..........................................81

Tie Down Engineering, Inc............................................50

Kenda/Americana Tire & Wheel...................................44

Vin-eze A Division of P.M.C.S., Inc..............................69

LaVanture Products Company......................................75

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May/June 2021

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Tracks

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President’s Report

Tracks

President’s Report

By Marty Lorick, Triple Crown Trailers

As we move into the busier summer months, I would like to personally thank you all for renewing your membership with NATM. By choosing to be a member, trailer manufacturers are agreeing to mandatory participation in the NATM Compliance Verification Program, and it is an added business expense. Your renewal signifies a voluntary re-enlistment to continue improving the safety of the United States’ roadways. Your dedication to complying to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and best practices is what makes your company a cut above in its dedication to safety, and your participation in NATM strengthens the industry as a whole.

Suppliers and service providers play a huge role in NATM’s success, and their membership and dedication are critical to our ability to provide educational resources and workshops, hold the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show, and publish Tracks magazine. Associate members are also on the cutting edge of improving component technologies and advancing compliance and safety initiatives, propelling the industry forward. These Associate members support the light- and medium-duty industry through their membership dues, advertising dollars, sponsorships, and leveraging their expertise to share with others in the industry through educational articles and workshops.

For our associate members supplying parts and services to the industry, you are also assisting with improving the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, and NATM trailer manufacturing members see that dedication. NATM would be unable to achieve its growth and positive influence in the industry without dedicated suppliers, service providers, and trailer manufacturers participating in the Association’s mission to “promote trailer safety and the success of the trailer manufacturing industry through education and advocacy.”

Being a member of NATM is wholly voluntary, and during this time of economic uncertainty, engagement with NATM may not be at the top of your companies’ priorities, but I can assure you that you are NATM’s top priority. The Association has rapidly adjusted during this time of continuous change to ensure that members have accurate information and that there are no lapses in benefits.

SEE YOU IN TAMPA! The knowledge gained keeps us sharper, the relationships keep us in touch with industry issues, and the trade show provides us the ability to purchase products at a competitive level.

- Patrick Jennissen, Felling Trailers

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May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

President's Report

Tracks Your membership dues are invaluable to supporting the efforts of the Association, and last year membership dues allowed NATM to: •

Launch an Association health care plan and a 401k plan. See page 64 for more information.

•

Update the Guidelines for Minimum Recommended Manufacturing Practices.

•

Launch the NATM Dealer Compendium—a document based off the NATM Guidelines that contains information on technical topics like brakes and safety chains as well as information on the importance of compliance and how to market compliance to end-users.

•

Host the second annual Workforce Development Summit in November 2020.

•

Launch the NATM Online Resource Library to which an online shop will be added later in 2021.

•

Publish a wealth of information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, including: •

Creating the Guidance on Workplace Safety for COVID-19

•

Creating a COVID-19 Resource Center on www.NATM.com

•

Sending a letter to Vice President Pence outlining the experience of NATM members during this outbreak

•

Partnering with MMA to bring a weekly webinar series.

•

Launch year-round sponsorship opportunities.

•

Host the first ever virtual Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits—an important step in continuing advocacy initiatives despite barriers to in-person meetings.

•

Transition the NATM Compliance Verification Program to include both remote and hybrid consultation processes, continuing to ensure compliance while protecting the health and safety of those involved.

As a result of the pandemic, NATM cancelled the 2021 Convention & Trade Show that was to be held in Nashville, Tenn.

The cancellation of the show was not only a disappointment, but also a financial detriment to many businesses as the NATM Show serves as a major sales and marketing opportunity for suppliers.

To create additional business opportunities, NATM created sponsorships for NATM’s webinars, new member program, and Trailer Safety Week. For more information on available sponsorships, turn to page 28. www.NATM.com

However, there are plenty of upcoming NATM events to take part in, including Trailer Safety Week (TSW) which is set for June 6-12.

NATM encourages all member companies to participate in this year’s Trailer Safety Week at whatever level of engagement they feel comfortable.

Please consider signing up to be a Trailer Marty Lorick, NATM Board President Safety week Ally and sharing the official TSW Communications Kit. This pre-crafted kit includes social and blog posts, ready-to-use graphics, and ads for websites. Visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com/interest to sign up.

To learn more about TSW, turn to page 18.

The annual Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits are tentatively scheduled for Sept. 22, 2021. The Association is optimistic the event will be held in-person in Washington, D.C. Though, with numerous factors to consider, including Congressional offices being open to constituent visits, a decision will be reached closer to the event. Along with the NATM Convention & Trade Show, this is one of NATM’s most important events. It is especially crucial for NATM members to participate in this event with 60 new Members of Congress and the Highway Reauthorization Bill up for renewal. Member involvement is the next step in the success of the Association’s government affairs plan.

This Association is only successful thanks to the hardworking trailer manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and dealers that are committed to safety and compliance. If you are interested in becoming more involved through committee work or have any questions or concerns about your membership in the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, do not hesitate to contact the NATM staff by emailing NATMHQ@natm.com or calling (785) 272-4433. I look forward to serving and encourage your participation and input to further the success of our Association.

May/June 2021

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Headquarter’s Report

Tracks

Headquarter’s Report

By Kendra Ansley, NATM Executive Director

The year has started off strong for the light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturing industry and optimism abounds for a return to something nearing normal in 2021. Without the annual Convention & Trade Show, members came together online instead for the annual membership meeting. More coverage on the event can be found on page 20. While we certainly all would have rather been together in Nashville, NATM staff and member volunteers used the extra time to advance a number of projects and programs. This includes the launch of the NATM Resource Library and the soon to come online store, bringing members the information they need when they need it and allowing for online product orders. Staff also used this time to focus on a soon to be released outline and template package for members to create or improve their own in-house quality management system. In addition, staff and industry experts have come together to create a new virtual NATM Academy to be released in the next 12 months. More on these projects and the NATM Strategic Plan can be found on page 24.

In February, NATM hired and onboarded two new members of the staff, Abby Wiebler and Catie Rutkowski, to help with some of the growing administrative work of the Association. Abby and Catie have already shown themselves to be quick learners and excellent additions to the team. They support decal sales, product orders, processing member applications, prospect research, committee work, and the online store. You can learn more about Abby and Catie on page page 30, and members can look forward to meeting both of these new team members at the 2022 Convention in Tampa, Fla.!

While there was no Convention, NATM still honored members who significantly impacted the Association and the industry by presenting the annual awards during this year’s virtual Membership Meeting. Celebrating young professionals like Ty Scott and Nathan Uphus, as well as the contributions of Pam Daugherty, Richard Lavanture, and Joel Bauer is just a small token of appreciation for all they have collectively done. NATM would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who come together to help advance the industry and improve member benefits as well as generous sponsors who help support the delivery of programming and benefits.

Meanwhile, the Compliance Verification Program (CVP) remains either a hybrid or remote process. This format allows member

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May/June 2021

consultations to be more cost effective and efficient as consultants are hard at work to be entirely caught up with consultations after a slow down in 2020. With consultants spending less time on the road, they have invested more time into improving both the program and their own knowledge.

NATM consultants have been meeting with industry experts to expand their knowledge on VIN software, lighting, and more to continue to provide valuable technical support to members on topics tangentially related to the CVP. Members new and old are getting more value from the program than ever before. To learn what a typical consultant’s day is like, flip topage 56.

As we enter into an important advocacy year, the Association’s priorities include accessing funding for the expansion of Trailer Safety Week and actively engaging with Congressional Members about the upcoming Highway Reauthorization package which will have a profound impact on the industry. In order to address potential changes related to underride, and specifically side underride, as well as investment in infrastructure amongst other topics, the Association is looking for members to set up virtual plant tours and meetings with their representatives to help educate decision makers, including the 60 new Members of Congress, about the value and needs of the industry. Find out more about how to set up a tour and how NATM can help onpage 14.

The year ahead is full of promise and opportunity. NATM Committees, the Board, and staff are hard at work to bring members more of what they need to grow and prosper. If you have any feedback for the Association or would like to get more involved, please reach out at (785) 272-4433 or at NATMHQ@natm.com.

www.NATM.com

1. Spot a decal on a trailer.

2. Snap a picture of your decal.

3. Share with NATM!

NATM Submits Comments on FMCSA Underride Guard Rulemaking

Tracks

NATM Submits Comments on FMCSA Underride Guard Rulemaking

By Dennis Potter & Brody Garland, K&L Gates Recently, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) submitted public comments in support of an ongoing federal rulemaking at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The proposed rule would require the inclusion of rear impact guards in commercial motor vehicle (CMV) inspection checklists. The rulemaking resulted from petitions filed with FMCSA and recommendations to the Agency by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and Government Accountability Office, both highly respected organizations among policy makers. NATM filed comments to the agency applauding its proposal and taking the opportunity to highlight NATM’s focus on trailer safety and the role of its mandatory NATM Compliance Verification Program (CVP) in ensuring members have processes in place to build trailers that meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and industry best practices.

Data released from FMCSA showed that inspectors documented more than 2,300 violations related to rear impact guards and rear end protection in 2017, more than half of which are for components that are missing, damaged, or improperly constructed. According to the agency, “including rear impact guards and rear end protection in the periodic inspection requirements in Appendix G will call additional attention to this critical safety component and help ensure that each vehicle is checked at least once a year, improving compliance and helping to prevent fatalities and injuries when rear-end collisions occur.”

As noted in its filed comments, the requirement of rear impact guards on CMVs has existed in some capacity for almost 70 years, and federal regulations already grant FMCSA the authority to regulate underride guards. NATM went on to explain its continued support for the agency’s oversight role, explaining how “consistent enforcement of existing rear impact guard regulations will improve safety on America’s roads.”

By engaging with the Department of Transportation on this proposal, NATM reiterated its support for promoting best practices with regard to vehicle and highway safety, which are

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May/June 2021

core values for the Association. In its submission to the agency, NATM applauded the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and the Government Accountability Office for showing “leadership on this issue” and “agreed with their recommendations to strengthen CMV inspection standards.”

NATM’s public stance highlights its commitment to working with industry partners, federal regulators, and other safety advocates to advance common sense solutions that seek to minimize the occurrence and severity of underride incidents. The Association continues to engage with the federal government and congressional lawmakers on how best to improve safety functions related to underride guards, while being cognizant of creating undue burdens or inadvertently causing harm to the industry.

Due to the wide range and unique nature of products manufactured by NATM’s members, and the fact that they are all considered motor vehicles, the Association continues to urge FMCSA to evaluate whether any future modification or expansion of underride guard requirements is “appropriately calibrated” to different product categories. This “safety first” and categoryappropriate approach is one NATM will continue to take as federal regulators and Congress continue to debate enforcement of underride guard standards as well as potential expansion of the use of underride guards on motor vehicles.

As the regulations progress through the implementation process, NATM is monitoring the situation closely and is engaged with federal partners to ensure that safety is paramount on American roadways and thoughtful evidence-based solutions receive proper consideration.

Dennis Potter is a Government Affairs Counselor and Brody Garland is a Government Affairs Analyst at the law and lobbying firm of K&L Gates, where they represent NATM and other clients on legislative, regulatory, policy, and political matters. Mr. Potter can be reached at Dennis.Potter@klgates.com and Mr. Garland can be reached at Brody.Garland@klgates.com. www.NATM.com

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Open Invitation to the 2021 Regulatory Roundup

Tracks

Open Invitation to the 2021 Regulatory Roundup

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director writing, legislators are unable to welcome in-person visits to their offices. NATM is optimistic by September this will change; however, should an in-person meeting in D.C. not be viable, NATM will once again host the event virtually.

The day of activities is divided into two distinct parts: the Regulatory Roundup which is held in the morning and the Captiol Hill Visits which are in the afternoon. During previous Regulatory Roundups, attendees have heard from Congressional staffers, officials from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and experts from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

Midday, there is an overview of the appointments and Members of Congress that NATM members will meet with during the Captiol Hill Visits. All materials and talking points are reviewed so attendees feel comfortable with the messaging. NATM organizes Capitol Hill Visit teams so that those who have never participated in this event are paired with veteran attendees.

The Annual Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits are scheduled for Sept. 22, 2021. Along with the Convention & Trade Show, this is one of NATM’s most important events of the year. It is especially important for NATM members to participate in this year’s Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits as the Highway Reauthorization Bill will expire this year, and there will be continued pressure for infrastructure investment. Additionally, several iterations of the bill in both the House and Senate contemplate additional underride requirements that would be potentially more expansive than existing regulation.

NATM has contacted members in key districts to encourage those companies to host virtual plant tours in order to educate legislators. For more information about hosting a facility tour, turn to page 14.

In addition to virtual facility tours, NATM is encouraging members to save the date for the 2021 Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits on Sept. 22. Though all members are welcome to attend, NATM members in the districts listed on page 14 are highly encouraged to attend, as these legislators are new to Congress and are unfamiliar with NATM and the industry it serves.

About the Event Historically, the NATM Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits are hosted in-person in Washington, D.C. As of this

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May/June 2021

During the Captiol Hill Visits, teams disperse to visit with three to four congressional offices. Teams are comprised of three to four participants with an experienced team leader, though COVID restrictions in 2021 may impact team size. Handout materials and talking points are provided to each participant, along with educational materials to share with the Senator, Representative, and/or their staff. This is a great opportunity for members to learn more about what is going on in the industry, as well as build positive relationships with those that are regulating the industry.

NATM’s long-term approach to, and investments in, government relations continue to pay dividends to the Association and its members. Legislative and regulatory enactments are important and beneficial to NATM, but preventative activities are perhaps more important from NATM’s perspective. The Association has been successful on both counts. The current government relations program is strong and maintaining a steady course will continue to provide tremendous value to NATM members. Expanding the participation at the Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits will help build on that success and help NATM educate members of Congress about the trailer manufacturing industry.

If you would like more information about participating in the 2021 Regulatory Roundup & Captiol Hill Visits, contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or (785) 272-4433. www.NATM.com

Open Invitation to the 2021 Regulatory Roundup

Tracks

Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-2) (right) meets with NATM members from the second district of Indiana.

September 22, 2021

THE

SAVE DATE Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill Visits

Washington, D.C. For Registration Information Contact: Meghan Ryan, Assistant Director 785.272.4433 | Meghan.Ryan@natm.com www.NATM.com

www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

13

NATM Companies Encouraged to Host Virtual Plant Tours

Tracks

NATM Companies Encouraged to Host Virtual Plant Tours

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

NATM has had a number of successes in its Government Affairs program over the past several years due in large part to the relationships NATM members have built with their local members of Congress. Through NATM’s plant tours, legislative roundtables, and Captiol Hill Visits, NATM has built an awareness of the trailer manufacturing industry and the impact it has on the various states and legislative districts.

With over 60 new members in Congress, it is crucial that companies in the light- and medium-duty trailer industry continue to build relationships and awareness of the industry with legislators. With many of the new congressional members joining the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, NATM is encouraging both suppliers and trailer manufacturers to schedule virtual plant tours this year. All members of Congress have an impact on the outcome of any legislation, so it is important to recruit advocates that understand and support the trailer industry.

With the Highway Reauthorization Bill expiring in 2021 and continued pressure for infrastructure investment, it is expected that President Biden and Congress will seek to make bold decisions in the area of transportation, which makes engagement with key decision makers critical. Further, several iterations of the bill in both the House and Senate contemplate additional underride requirements that would be potentially more expansive than existing regulation. All NATM members are encouraged to get involved in the Association’s government affairs outreach, particularly if you see your Member of Congress on the list below.

Historically, plant tours have taken place onsite at member company facilities. As COVID-19 protocols limit visitors, NATM is encouraging members to host virtual plant tours online for 2021.

U.S. House of Representatives: New Members Jerry Carl (R-AL-1)

Carolyn Bourdeaux (D-GA-7)

Lisa McClain (R-MI-10)

Cliff Bentz (R-OR-2)

Barry Moore (R-AL-2)

Andrew Clyde (R-GA-9)

Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-7)

Nancy Mace (R-SC-1)

Jay Obernolte (R-CA-8)

Marjorie Taylor Green (R-GA-15)

Cori Bush (D-MO-1)

Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-1)

David Valadao (R-CA-21)

Kai Kahele (D-HI-2)

Matt Rosendale (R-MT-AL)

Pat Fallon (R-TX-4)

Young Kim (R-CA-39)

Marie Newman (D-IL-3)

Yvette Herrell (R-NM-2)

August Pfluger (R-TX-11)

Michelle Steel (R-CA-48)

Mary Miller (R-IL-15)

Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM-3)

Ronny Jackson (R-TX-13)

Darrell Issa (R-CA-50)

Frank Mrvan (D-IN-1)

Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-2)

Pete Sessions (R-TX-17)

Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)

Victoria Spartz (R-IN-5)

Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11)

Troy Nehls (R-TX-22)

Lauren Boebert (R-CO-3)

Ashley Hinson (R-IA-1)

Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15)

Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23)

Kat Cammack (R-FL-3)

Marianette Miller Meeks (R-IA-2)

Jamaal Bowman (D-NY-16)

Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24)

Scott Franklin (R-FL-15)

Randy Feenstra (R-IA-4)

Mondaire Jones (D-NY-17)

Blake Moore (R-UT-1)

Byron Donalds (R-FL-19)

Tracey Mann (R-KS-1)

Deborah Ross (D-NC-2)

Burgess Owens (R-UT-4)

Carlos Gimenez (R-FL-26)

Jake LaTurner (R-KS-2)

Kathy Manning (D-NC-6)

Robert Good (R-VA-10)

Maria Elvira Salazara (R-FL-27)

Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-4)

Madison Cawthorn (R-NC-11)

Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10)

Nikema Williams (D-GA-5)

Peter Meijer (R-MI-3)

Stephanie Bice (R-OK-5)

Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI-5)

U.S. Senate: New Members

14

Tommy Tuberville (R-AL)

Raphael Warnock (D-GA)

Ben Ray Luján (D-NM)

Mark Kelly (D-AZ)

Jon Ossoff (D-GA)

Bill Hagerty (R-TN)

John Hickenlooper (D-CO)

Roger Marshall (R-KS)

Cynthia Lummis (R-WY)

May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

NATM Companies Encouraged to Host Virtual Plant Tours

Tracks

For those companies interested in engaging, NATM has template invite letters and other resources to make the process easier.

NATM’s government affairs representatives, K&L Gates, will contact the congressional offices and schedule the event once the company completes the template invitation letter. The Association will provide a suggested tour outline and talking points. With the switch to virtual, the plant tours will most likely take place on a Zoom call and feature a slide deck of photos of the facility and/or a pre-taped video walk through.

If your business is represented by a new legislator, listed on the previous page, or sits on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, NATM highly encourages you to host your representative for a virtual plant tour.

If you are interested in hosting a plant visit, contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or call NATM Headquarters at (785) 272-4433.

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(C2X) - C2XF0010

10.75" x 20.5" x 72"

(C2X) - C2XF0011

9" x 19.75" x 66"

Electrical & Lighting

Single Jeep® Steel Fender

two equal flat legs Jeep style fenders are flat on top and have incorporates a 1 inch on each side. This fender configuration gauge cold roll steel. radius on both sides and are made of 16

Steel Fender

B

Exterior Components Cargo Management & Hardware

Tandem Square Back with Valance

cold roll steel. It is the same width at the Brite Traile This fender is constructed of a 16 gauge 151401 inch and the back is formed at 90 degrees 155022 r Tong top and bottom. The front radius is one • Available 7-5/8” tall from the top of the fender ue Boxe in two sizes 178203 downward. The teardrop valance measures • Uses s is designed to accommodate a tandem area to the bottom of the valance. This fender • ®Designed of trailer that additional light mounting holes or brackets.BULLDOG rarely gets PART NO. ROUND axle trailer and is provided without to

Index

See Manufacturer’s

10” 10” 13” 15” 10” 15” 15” 15” 10”

Catalog For More Applications. Specifications

See Manufacture

r’s Catalog

Applications.

Specifications

are subject to

change without

notice.

For More

[ 179 ]

C

B

D

Applications

. Specificatio

ns are subject

to change

without

notice.

[ 253 ]

Sizzling Summer

SALE JUNE 1 – AUGUST 31, 2018

Island

SECTIO N WIDTH AVAILA S BLE 2', 3', 4'

Section

Wall Section

™

99-0052

TheEquali bestzerHitc proteh.com ction •for your 800-478-5578 journey.

™

Lock Sleeved 5/8 1/2 Rtp Pro Lock 5/8 Chrme Dogbne w/ Coupler

99-0076

7070800

3

99-0067

7030600

3

99-0001

63251

2

99-0072

7057720

3

99-0047

63254RTL

99-0070

7033200

99-0068

7031500

94-0011

7005300

95-0021

72783

2

14-2678

83001

10

14-2699

83002

10

99-0056

7012900

2

99-0053

7007900

3

3 3 3 3

Lock King Pin Pin & Clip 5/8" Heavy-Duty King Pin Bent Pin Rail Lock Lock Dogbone Rcvr 5/8" 3-1/2" Lock Easy Access Adj. Coupler

CouplerDisplay Lock Brass Adjustable Hitch Lock Universal Coupler Part No. Lube Plate Plate 10" Lube

Sway

99-0045

58060RTL

3

99-0041

55180RTL

3

99-0069

7031600

2

14-0799

54970

2

99-0012

21501RTL

2

99-0029

30137RTL

1

99-0031

30140RTL

1

99-0016

26003RTL

3

30053RTL

1

83660

3

Stand 99-0017 69-5039 99-0104 70-02-6100 e2 Hitch Display 99-0040 Stand 99-0032 Our e2

2

Snap up bracket clips Cable 12' w/ Easy Access Receiver Hitch Bar Adjustable 2" Sq

79-00-8000

Snap up Bracket Complete Elite Pop-In Ball Kit - Ford Elite Pop-In Ball Kit - Dodge Sway Control Adapter Bracket

Slotw all Accessoriy Kit 5th Wheel

(Friction) Flash Sway Control Pkg Ball Mount Kit 18,000 Chain Bracket The new lbs

Display Stand

countertop Flash display provides Gooseneck Hitch Pro Series your customers 1 49080RTL the opportunity hitch display Solo Hitch 3 Pack Pdq Jack 2K TW A-Frame Boxedto take a 2 includes7080200 99-0082 close look the base, upright at the hand Pcs trailer A-frame, 2stand, Quick Link 5/16" 5000# your polished aluminum, and signage customers visualize the to help you ball mount show Choose betweenhow they can tow on the faster and easier. of their truck, with round-bar single and double and see exactly back hitch displays they are purchasing and/or trunnion what hitch. .

Slotw all with Alum C T P L A N O G R A M inum A N O T H E R P E R F E Insert s ™

Fastway

50223RTL

HEIGH AVAILA TS BLE 36" – 120" 6" increm in ents 36" – 120" 6" increm in ents

54" or 60"

™

™

4-Way BASE DECKS AVAILA BLE 13", 16", 22", 25", 19" 31" deep 28",

Displa y with

Wood

Deck

BACK PANEL AVAILA STYLES BLE Pegbo ard, Groov Pegbo ard, Slotwa ed Wire ll, Grid or Martec k (Smoot h) Pegbo ard, Groov Pegbo ard, Slotwa ed Wire ll, Grid or Martec k (Smoot h) Pegbo ard or Slotwa ll Shelv ing Comp A - Back onent s: Panel B - Uprite C - Uprite End Trim D - Base Bracke t E - Base End Trim F - Base Front G - Base Deck H - Top Rail I - Center J - Splicer Rail K - Bottom Rail Rail

13", 16", 22", 25", 19", 31" deep 28", N/A

78-00-6330 Flash Gondola

Display

Our new Gondola display easily attaches to the gondola shelving in your store for a hands-on experience.

Each display three Flash holds ball mounts.

Trailer Wire Products Grid - Fast Priceser, Easier ™ are subject to change do not

include

freight.

Groov ed Pegbo ard

Special discounts, new item announcements and merchandising tips.

44 Tunkhannock Avenue Exeter, PA 18643

Winter

Fall Harvest

SALE Ahead

SALE 44 Tunkhannock Avenue Exeter, PA 18643

ING STYLE

eNews Email

Start your season out right!

Stock up and save!

SEPTEMBER 1 – NOVEMBER 31,

78-00-4000

Wall Section

SHELV

™

70-02-6100

USA

Back Styles Part No. 81-9250

2', 3', Display gives Double-Side 4' to see and feel d customers the products out purchasing. of the package,chance The Four Way beforePegbo you to showcasedisplay’s built-in receiver Display bar 78-00-5110 the coupler ard er ball mounts, lock and several allows and we’ve 2' and Flash and a way added a mini 81-0780 3' No. Part 78-00-75 to show the Flip display 50 ONEstep wheel The new display No. 7086300Flip Stand Display Mfgchocks. is lightweight so you can and quick to easily move Mini Flip Display and set up, or parts department it around your Fastway Fortress showroom Our Flip displays .

Product not Coupler Lock included.

Display Stand easily Qty Description Mfg No. Header Frame how the Flip automatica demonstrate Showcase Part No. lly lowers and raises Qty Description the Device e2 A-frame 99-0078 7074630 Mfg No. Part Anti-Rattle 2 Part No. to put itself No. 69-5041 coupler lock! Fastway Fortress away.

3Pk Clips 4 Kit The Part Lock display can Anti-Theft Towing No. 69-5040 99-0059 7021320 1 75-03-68 used with our 99-0058 7014700 be 20 ball mount Pin & Clip 1/2" w/ Black Pvc 3 Hitches are Outboard Rail Pin & Clip 99-0054 7009100 stand or the display 70-02-62 99-0046 not included 20 58467RTL 3 gondola display.

Pin & Clip 5/8" Black Pvc End display. Display 3 Rail Pin & Clip 7009200 Outboard 99-0055with Marte the 3 99-0046 58467RTL ck order. Please is free with a qualifying 3 Pin & Clip 5/8" Black Pvc End 7009200 Pin and Clip 1/2 Groved BentPart check 99-0055 3 with representa 99-0044 58053RTL No. 17-0584 sales tive for details. your Lock Dogbone Rcvr Sleevd 5/8"& 3 7005600 Control ball 1 1/4" x 5/8"

Hitch Display Stand Part No. 69-5039

Made in the

Heavy-Duty Towing Planogram

Part No. 81-4578 Part No. 81-9260 78-00-57 Double-Sided 80 78-00-8040 Stand Two Foot Stand Alone Display Alone Display New Fastway Double-Sid People love our gear! The ed Stand Alone Display Stand Alone new Fastway

* • Prices

SEASONAL SALE FLYERS

44 Tunkhannock Avenue Exeter, PA 18643

are provide superior committed to our dealers.

Four dealer support, Our goal is to Way Displa and help you Freestaoff your shelves. yers nding move our products with casters display unit availab We , wooddisplays, jack base have le caps, deck or end styles shelf-talk pallet marketing materials ers, videos, , brochures customers. Whether and more to educate your sales team , you have a big on your counter, and showroom, or a small spot your customer we have marketing materials Island how they can that will teach Fastway line. tow faster and Section easier with the (R34)

™

Index

Catalog For More

Index

See Manufacturer’s

Exterior Componen ts & Hardware Chemicals & Coatings

Chemicals & Coatings

CALL US TODAY!

CN 1.800.257.7190 US 1.888.888.4595

A

nt

TRAVEL

Cargo Exterio r Manag ement Components & Hardw Chemic are als Coating & s

Cargo Manageme

155032 be MANUAL used on utilized utility and JACKS camping trailers STYLE HANDLE SIZE PART # gauge cold roll steel. BULLDOG ® a 16 Part (B1E) DimensiSTYLE This fender is constructed of - 151401 back is formed a 2,000 Refer No. ons shown MOUNT front radius is one inch and the to the dimension BULLDOG ® (C2X) - C2XF0009 9" x 20.5" x 72" at the top and bottom. The(B1E) Round in inches* - 155157 ATopwind in this fender design. This 2,000 (T8E) - 201191 chart.

B 90 degrees downward. No Valance is provided BULLDOG C Tubular Swivel There®are no Round (T8E) (B1E) - 155022 a tandem axle trailer.

Mount - Round D 201341 Topwind 2,000 fender is designed to accommodate 33-1/4 BULLDOG ® Weld On Retaining brackets.

Round 16 holes-or additional light mounting (B1E) 178201 33-1/4 Ring Swivel Sidewind18 13 2,000Limited 20 BULLDOG ® LifetimeRound 21 (B1E) - 178203 Warranty 20 A-Frame Topwind 5,000 BULLDOG ® Round (B1E) - 1750290317 A-Frame SIZE Sidewind 5,000 PART # BULLDOG ® Tubular Swivel Round (B1E) - 155032 Mount - Round Sidewind Two Wheel Straight – Bright Tread - Aluminum 5,000 BULLDOG ® Tubular Swivel Round (B1E) - 178101 Mount - Round (C2X) - C2XMFR326 9” x 14” x 68” Topwind 5,000 BULLDOG ® Round A-Frame (C2X) - C2XMFR328 10” x 12-1/2” x 68” Topwind 5,000 Measurements in: Width x Height x Length Round A-Frame (C2X) - C2XMFS107 9” x 20-1/4” x 72” Topwind Tubular Swivel Mount - Round [ 65 ] are subject to change without notice.

BRAND

CAPACITY Steel Fender LIFT(LBS.) (B1E) without - 158451 Valance Tandem Square Back It is the same width

Wall Sectio ns ® SingleAtsided Fastway, we

Having an Equal-i-zer hitch display in your will help you showroom explain the benefits of the Equal-izer hitch to your customers.

Use it to demons trate the power 4-Point Sway of Control, and easy it is to how use an Equal-ihitch. A hands-o zer n experience will help your customers see the value in purchas ing a premium performance hitch.

Electric al Lightin & g

SIZE

(C2X) - C2XF0004

C

Jacks, Couple rs Winche & s

PART #

steel and Round Fender backs are made of 18 gauge a fender. are designed to cover the inside back of

e2 A-frame Part No. 69-5040 70-02-6220

Brake Contro ls Actuato & rs

12" x 68.875"

B

Electrical & Lighting

12" x 30"

(C2X) - C2XF0002

C A

Brite Whee

l Well • Opens Boxes towards • Excellent the center of the bed storage options for fifth wheel applicatio ns Part No. Dimensi Refer to the ons shown A (T8E) - dimension chart. in inches* 180481 B (T8E) C 180601 47-1/4 8 60 23-1/4 13-1/4 17

1750290317

Jacks, Couplers & Winches

SIZE

(C2X) - C2XF0001

25 19-1/4

Brake Controls & Actuators

PART #

30 22-1/2

178101

Jacks, Couplers & Winches

1 YEAR WARRANTY

LOG 2020

ING CATA TRAILER AND TOW

60 54

A

155157

Single Steel Fender Back

Towing

cold roll steel and This fender is constructed of a 16 gauge and a 90 degree incorporates a 1 inch radius on the front158451 bend on the back of the fender.

It’s easy!

Double -sided

®

Equal-i-zer A-frame Part No. 71-5026 70-02-6250

Hitches

Single Square Back Steel Fender

Basic Front FROM A PLANOGRAM? Island Room SHOPPING (Gond NEW Fixtur

IDEA BOOK

Tires & Wheels

cold roll steel and incorporates This fender is constructed of a 16 gauge of the fender. This fender is a 1 inch radius on the front and the back any given axle. designed to accommodate one wheel of

C

B

Towing

10.75" x 20" x 36"

in inches* C

21 19-1/2 24 24 25

27 32

Hitches

9" x 15" x 32"

(C2X) - C2XF0006

B

48 56

Tires & Wheels

7.75" x 10" x 28"

(C2X) - C2XF0008

Brake Controls & Actuators

SIZE

(C2X) - C2XF0007

ons shown

59-1/2 21 54

10-1/2 Recreatio 48 nal 27

Towing

7" x 10" x 28"

PART #

Dimensi

RMANCEA

Livestock

Suspen sion System s

BULLDOG® PERFO

Equal-i-zer 11" x 17" Display Contains (1) Brochure Holder, (50) Brochures, (5) DVDs Part No. 71-5013 75-03-6810

Brake Assem blies

No.

the dimension

Hitches

Single Double Radius Fender

SIZE

(C2X) - C2XF0005

NDISI NG DISPLAYS/P AIDS LANOGRAM S

Store fixtur merchand es and acce ssories ise in line of are an its best Lozier ® inves 9 light.

LINK Traile tment that Front Room allow r Parts and Back is a prou s you to prese Room d distri ola) Sectio es nt your shelving ns systems. butor of the (E63) full

FreMER estanCHA ding Dis NDI plaSIN G y

Axles Compo & nents

Tires & Wheels

Refer to

(T8E) 100 Gallon 210501 (T8E) 35 GallonReRectangle Tank 210751 75 Gallon ctangular Tank (T8E) 75 Gallon Combo Tank 211101 100 GallonL Tank Steel Part L Tank No. (T8E) 211101S 100 Gallon (T8E) White L 210981S Tank 98 Gallon White Rectangl Limited e Tank Lifetime Warranty

(T8E) Commerc ial 210851

A

Suspension Systems

Brite Part

H & TRUS(T8E) - 210101 TED

Agricultural

®

Brake Assemblies

Suspension Systems

to diesel fuel transfer non-pota ble water • Made and of • Commercaluminum alloy ial-grade vented cap is standard

DELIVERS TOUG Utility

ROUND JACKS

(T8E)

ts

Brake Assemblies

MANUAL

(B1E)

Steel and Alum Liquid Transfer inum Tanks • Designed

from

PART #

XX DISPLAYS/PLANOGRAMS26 MERC HA

e

STEEL

Axles & Componen

Trailer Fenders

Tool Boxe Pag e Titls

Axles & Components

Manual Jacks Page Title (C2X)

Fenders Page Title

UNITED STATES 1.888.888.4595

DECEMBER 1, FEBRUARY 28, 2018 – 2019

2018

• CANADA 1.800.257.7190

Sale Sale SaSleale Fall Harvest Winter

Not responsible for typographical Not responsible errors • Specials not available for typographical at all locations • All prices • Some items not legal for errors • Specials • Some items subject to change sale or use in California on not legal not available without notice for sale pollution controlled vehicles • Brand names at all locations Limited Lifetime Warranty or use mayinvary • We reserve the right • Certain specials may Limited California Lifetime Warranty • All prices subject • Jeep® is a registered trademark to limit quantities be non-stocking on pollution controlled • Some of FCA US LLC. The publishers Jeep®a is to change may bewithout exclusive property of the Publisher, freight exclusive propertyand may •require out of stock charge to be added on a registered vehicles • Certain specials are not responsible to manufacturer’s availability noticedue to the sale or its content supplier. No trademark of theerrors. for typographical price for special • Brand specials Publisher, ordering portion of this mailer, including Copyright may • Customer or its content be non-stocking ©2017. All rights of FCA US LLC. The publishers must have originalnames vary • We reserve images, may be copied or sales may All text, graphics, pictures, receipt and may require for are not reproduced in any form without supplier. Noreserved. the right to limit logos, responsible and the for of selection freight charge the prior writtenportion mailer, including quantities • Some and arrangement athereof typographical consent this of the Publisher. Vehicles images, specials may errors. Copyright is the to be added on to the are may Sold be Separately. sale price for be out of stock copied or•reproduced All pricing shown is in US ©2017. special ordering due to manufacturer’s dollars. All rights reserved. in any form • Customer must All text, graphics, without the prior availability have original pictures, logos, written consent sales receipt and the selection of the Publisher. for and arrangement Vehicles are Sold thereof is the Separately. • All pricing shown is in US dollars.

Spring Forward

availability to manufacturer’s for availability of stock due sales receipt may be out of stock due to manufacturer’s may be out have original the vary • We reserve the right to limit quantities • Some specials • Some specials Customer must namesis may thereof have original sales receipt for notice • Brand • to change without to limitatquantities arrangement • All prices subject price for special ordering • Customer must all locations available notright Specialsthe thereof is the a freight charge to be added on to the sale errors for special ordering and the selection and in US dollars. may is require and We• reserve Not responsible for typographical sale price vehicles shown specials may be non-stocking pictures, logos, and the selection and arrangement logos, • Certain may vary • in California on to thecontrolled • All pricing pictures, on pollution names added ©2017. All rights reserved. All text, graphics, for sale or use • Brand • All pricing shown is in US dollars. not legal • Some text, graphics, publishers charge to be responsible for typographical errors. Copyright SoldnotSeparately. noticeitems areare Publisher. Vehicles are Sold Separately. without of FCA US LLC. TheVehicles reserved. All require a•freight without the prior written consent of the Jeep® is a registered All rightstrademark and mayWarranty subject to change Limited Lifetime may be copied or reproduced in any form of the Publisher. consent Copyright ©2017. s • All prices No portion of this mailer, including images, be non-stocking supplier. errors. or its content prior written of the Publisher, specials may property exclusive typographical without the for icles • Certain in any form are not responsible reproduced be copied or The publishers images, may mailer, including

Sizzling 2018 r Summe

SEPTEMBER 1 – NOVEMBER 31,

MAY 31, MARCH 1 –

JUNE 1 – AUGUST 31, 2018

20

20%

OFF

20%

2018

Ahead

%

DECEMBER 1, FEBRUARY 28, 2018 – 2019

OFF

20 % OFF

OFF

©Photo courtesy of B&W Tailer Hitches

www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

15

NATM Political Action Committee Updating Records for 2021

Tracks

NATM Political Action Committee Updating Records for 2021

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director NATM is updating its records for 2021 and wants to ensure that the Association has a prior approval form for all interested members. In order to learn more about NATM’s Political Action Committee, NATM needs to have a solicitation agreement form on file for you. The form, emailed by an NATM staff member upon request or found on the Members Only Section of the NATM website, must be signed by you or the appropriate representative from your company in order to receive information about NATM’s Political Action Committee, also known as the NATM PAC. To access the Members Only section of the NATM website, go to www.NATM.com and click ‘log in’ in the top right corner of the page.

The NATM PAC was established in 2010 and has since been active in each congressional election. The NATM PAC is an effective tool in helping NATM educate political leaders on the Association’s priorities and NATM’s great work improving the safety of the industry and nation.

Federal Law requires the NATM Political Action Committee to obtain written permission from you before you or your company can participate in the PAC. If you wish to participate in the NATM PAC, you must first authorize NATM to communicate with you regarding the PAC and NATM’s political activity, including periodic solicitations for contributions.

Approval does not obligate you to contribute; however, it does allow NATM to keep you informed about the PAC’s activities.

Participation in the NATM PAC is voluntary, and any decision to not contribute will in no way reflect adversely on anyone being solicited.

To complete the PAC solicitation agreement form granting NATM permission to solicit and to learn more about NATM’s efforts to engage in the political process visit the Members Only side of the NATM website, or, for more information, contact Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director, at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com.

Since the inception of the NATM PAC, 45 individuals have contributed $83,350 to the NATM PAC, and the PAC has contributed to the campaigns of 29 Members of Congress.

16

May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

ONE STEP. ZERO DISCHARGE. High Pressure Pretreatment For Large Metal Products

“We switched from just pressure washing using a degreaser to a CPR phosphate cleaning system with recycling. We greatly reduced our chemical consumption and eliminated discharging any wash waters. We continue to see the savings to this day. We have been using CPR SYSTEMS for over 10 years.”

- Greg G Snyder, President, Car Mate Trailers

Reduce Operating Costs 14 Day No Flash Rust Guarantee Improve Paint Adhesion Increase Corrosion Resistance Closed Loop Recycling No Daily Waste Water Discharge Environmental Compliant Quick Return On Investment

Clean, Pretreat And Recycle In One Step.

The CPR SYSTEM meets the cleaning effectiveness of a 5-stage washer in a compact size. This method of high pressure spray wand phosphating increases salt spray test times, alleviates corrosion, provides a 14-day no flash rust at 50% humidity, saves up to 80% of chemicals and 95% of water used in typical wash and dump cleaning methods. A CPR SYSTEM pays for itself within a short period of time.

Surface Rust

Cleaned And Pretreated Steel

Closed-Loop Phosphate Or Zirconium Recycling System

ONE STEP. ZERO DISCHARGE.

Because CPR SYSTEM uses a proprietary closed-loop recycling process to reclaim and reuse the wash solution, sewer discharge is eliminated. Therefore, this system is environmentally compliant…no permitting, treating, monitoring and record-keeping of industrial wastewater is required.

www.cprsystemsonline.com PH: (800) 897-7515 PH: (574) 233-9111

Why Your Dealership Should Celebrate Trailer Safety Week June 6-12

Tracks

Why Your Dealership Should Celebrate Trailer Safety Week June 6-12

By Savana Morrison, NATM Marketing Director Trailer Safety Week (TSW) is an annual nation-wide traffic safety campaign aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of being committed to trailer safety, educating end-users about proper trailer maintenance and usage, and creating a stronger alliance between stakeholders of the industry including trailer dealers, manufacturers, and end-users. Last year alone, TSW reached over 90,000 individuals.

18

May/June 2021

First launched in 2018, TSW sought to help bridge the gap of communication between trailer manufacturers and end-users.

Talking about the importance of trailers built to meet required Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) can be a daunting task as end-users do not understand the complex regulations governing compliant trailer manufacturing. They recognize that they would not purchase a car without seat belts,

www.NATM.com

Why Your Dealership Should Celebrate Trailer Safety Week June 6-12 but they do not understand that buying a trailer without key safety features can be just as dangerous. End-users are vastly under-educated on the proper use of trailers, and it is crucial to utilize the connections that dealers and manufacturers have with consumers in order to raise awareness of proper towing techniques and maintenance.

Getting involved in this important industry campaign shows potential customers that not only is their dealership a leader in the industry, but they are truly committed to trailer safety. Impress customers and instill confidence in the company’s dedication to safety by joining this trailer safety movement. Participating in TSW is easy!

Becoming an Official Trailer Safety Week Ally is a wonderful opportunity for companies who want to be involved in the safety movement but don’t have significant time to invest.

The TSW team provides Allies with the official Trailer Safety Communications kit to promote their involvement in Trailer Safety Week and to share information about safe trailering practices. This digital kit includes: •

Pre-crafted social media posts

•

Downloadable Trailer Safety Week graphics

•

A blog post

•

And much more!

Tracks

Now especially, safe trailering practices are important. NHSTA is cracking down on compliance violations, and two recent accidents have brought to light the importance of safe trailering practices. One accident, previously covered in an article on behalf of NHTSA, resulted in a fatality due to inappropriately connected safety chains between the tow vehicle and towed unit which led to disconnection on a highway. More recently, safety chains saved a couple dangling nearly 100 feet above a river.

Safe trailering practices save lives, and with millions of trailers— used by businesses, local governments, and individuals— traversing the nation’s roadways every day, it is crucial to ensure that trailers are being towed safely for the sake of everyone on the roads. NATM calls upon trailer dealers to join the movement in making roadways safer one trailer at a time.

Learn more at www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com/interest or email TrailerSafetyWeek@natm.com.

Promoting the dealership’s involvement with Trailer Safety Week is a breeze with this jam-packed kit. The content can even be customized to include information specific to the dealership’s typical customer. www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com also houses a free towing safely guide to ensure trailer-users have readily accessible safety information at their fingertips. Wow your customers by highlighting this free safety resource that reminds them the dealership is looking out for them and their well-being long after they leave the lot. Topics include: •

Hitching

•

Loading

•

Trailer maintenance

•

And more!

www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

19

NATM Hosts Annual Membership Meeting

Tracks

NATM Hosts Annual Membership Meeting

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) held their annual membership meeting virtually on Feb. 18, 2021.

The Association works to improve the safety of the nation’s roadways through its Compliance Verification Program (CVP) to ensure federal compliance of light- and medium-duty trailers under 26,000 lbs. GVWR. The membership meeting is usually held in person during the NATM Convention & Trade Show but was moved online due to the cancellation of the show. The event serves as a chance for members to discuss the Association’s successes and programming over the year. Topics covered included the financial health of the Association, membership benefits, marketing initiatives, educational programming, and the Association’s strategic planning.

Membership Types With the Dealer Affiliate Program established and growing, NATM is once again looking to broaden membership opportunities to bolster trailer safety and education. The Association has proposed a new NATM membership type to be

voted on by the entire NATM membership in early spring. More details to come!

Membership Benefits Even with all the obstacles 2020 presented, NATM continued to push forward to provide key benefits to members, including resources that could be utilized immediately in response to COVID-19. The Association brought members regular updates regarding changing regulations surrounding essential businesses, workplace safety, and available relief mechanisms. In addition, the Association: •

Created the Guidance on Workplace Safety for COVID-19

•

Created a COVID-19 Resource Center on www.NATM.com

•

Sent a letter to Vice President Pence outlining the experience of NATM members during this outbreak

•

Partnered with Marsh and McLennan Agency to bring a weekly webinar series

As a result of the pandemic, NATM cancelled the 2021 Convention & Trade Show that was to be held in Nashville, Tenn. in February. The cancellation of the show was not only a disappointment, but also a financial detriment to many businesses as the NATM Convention & Trade Show serves as a major sales and marketing opportunity for suppliers and service providers to the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. To create additional business opportunities, NATM created year-round sponsorships for NATM’s webinars, new member program, and Trailer Safety Week—set for June 6-12. To view current sponsorship opportunities, visit page 28.

Despite the dramatic shift in programming to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the Association launched new, and improved, existing benefits. In 2020, NATM launched an Association Health Plan, an Association 401(k) program, the online NATM Resource Library, and added monthly training for the compliance team. To find out details on the Association’s Affinity Programs, turn to page 64.

The NATM Online Resource Library has informational articles and resources spanning across many categories, including: business administration/HR, technical, membership/marketing, the Compliance Verification Program (CVP), and a section

20

May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

NATM Hosts Annual Membership Meeting

Tracks for trailer-user information. On-demand webinars will also be housed in the Resource Library for members’ easy access. New articles and resources are regularly added to the Library as NATM continues to expand the breadth and depth of information available to members. This Resource Library is an exclusive NATM Member benefit; go to www.ShopNATM.com and create a log-in to access the Library.

Members also receive exclusive social media benefits through NATM’s pages. Currently, three social media campaigns are running on these pages. “Women Crush Wednesday” gives member companies the chance to show off women in manufacturing. “Where in the World is Your NATM Decal?” highlights compliant trailers in their “natural habitats.” Lastly, the “Combatting Workforce Issues” campaign shows how NATM members are tackling the workforce shortage amongst other challenges. To get social with NATM, visit www.NATM.com/get_social. For more information on these campaigns, turn to page 38.

Affiliate Benefits For the past few years, NATM has sought out ways to further the mission of trailer safety, and the Dealer Affiliate Program, launched in 2019, is another way for the Association to support compliance, safety, and education. In 2020, the Association expanded Dealer Affiliate benefits with the publication of the NATM Dealer Compendium which is full of educational content that helps trailer dealers access key information quickly.

Modeled after the NATM Guidelines for trailer manufacturers, this resource guide is over 300 pages long and contains information on: state towing, brakes, safety chains, and license plate laws; tire recordkeeping requirements, and information of CDLs, FET, GVWRs, and EWR. The Dealer Compendium also provides education on the importance of selling compliant trailers and information on how to sell compliance to end-users.

Helping dealers understand and communicate these tricky topics to end-users is a win for the entire industry and for the safety of the nation’s roadways!

Trailer Safety Week Trailer Safety Week was first introduced to the industry in the summer of 2018. Since then, this awareness campaign aimed at generating knowledge surrounding trailer safety has grown significantly. In 2020, NATM extended the reach of Trailer Safety Week by 56 percent over 2019 with 235 companies signing on as allies. Thanks to the support of Trailer Safety Week Allies, www.NATM.com

NATM’s reach alone was over 90,000 people during last year’s safety week and was even featured on a major news station in Salt Lake City.

Allies are sent an official TSW Communications Kit a month prior to Trailer Safety Week. This kit has everything from precrafted social posts and blog posts, to ready-to-use graphics, and banner ads for websites. Promoting the company’s involvement with Trailer Safety Week is a breeze with this jam-packed kit. The information can even be customized to include content specific to each Ally’s products and services that promote trailer safety.

NATM also debuted two additional levels of commitment to Trailer Safety Week: Champions and Partners. Champions’ support of Trailer Safety week exceeds that of Allies, and as such, they earn greater promotional opportunities. Partners take the next step further with content development and resource sharing.

Partners must conform to specific standards and requirements. To learn more about any of these opportunities and to sign up visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com/interest.

Compliance Verification Program (CVP) Update The Compliance Verification Program (CVP) is one of the key benefits for trailer manufacturer members. Trailer manufacturing members undergo a consultation every two years which features an extensive checklist of items intended to ensure trailer manufacturing members have the processes in place to build trailers in accordance with federal safety regulations and industry best practices. The compliance team holds monthly meetings to ensure the consultants are not only up to date with changing trends but to consistently interpret and enforce the CVP for all members. NATM also updates the CVP regularly. Recently, tire recordkeeping and component capacity enforcement were updated. The compliance team is also looking into updating lighting, VIN label, and spare tire requirements. These updates and changes help better ensure members are in compliance with federal regulation.

May/June 2021

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NATM Hosts Annual Membership Meeting

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Government Affairs Update

Government affairs advocacy is an important part of the Association’s work to help keep roadways safe and contribute to industry success. At the membership meeting, NATM’s Government Affairs Representatives, K&L Gates, gave a brief overview of the new Administration and the potential impact these changes could have on the industry.

2021 ushered in the new Biden Administration and with it, a number of changes in Congress as well as on Committees.

The inauguration of President Biden means that Vice President Kamala Harris will break all ties on votes in the Senate. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) ascended to the role of Majority Leader.

With the even split, the work of the new Senate will be contingent on power sharing agreements and cooperation with his minority counterpart, something last experienced in 2001 when the Senate was briefly 50-50. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) is now Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation, who will have jurisdiction over highways, shipping, transportation security, interstate commerce, economic

development, and technology. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) continues his efforts on the Committee as the Ranking Member.

In addition to changes in leadership and shifts in the governing majority, the new Congress will add over 60 new Members to the rank and file. Many of these Members will be joining the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee where they will have a voice on issues important to NATM’s members. With the Highway Reauthorization Bill expiring in 2021 and continued drumbeats for infrastructure investment, it is expected that President Biden and Congress will seek to make bold decisions in this area. NATM has already begun engaging in these discussions and will continue to promote its legislative agenda.

Future Association Plans NATM established a strategic plan in 2019 with three focus areas: supporting industry growth, being the recognized leader in trailer safety, and maintaining the integrity and raising the value of the Compliance Verification Program. Due to the pandemic, the NATM Board voted to extend the program through 2022 as many plans were derailed as a result of the pandemic. To get the latest information on NATM’s Strategic Plan, flip to page 24.

2020’s efforts have laid the groundwork for exciting new benefits and programming to be launched this year. NATM created a committee working on a special project to develop an online training program to improve trailer safety—more information to come soon. The Association will also be launching materials and guidance to create or improve an in-house quality management system. This new program will help members streamline processes, cultivate a commitment to quality output, and help create mechanisms to support consistency as labor shortages and turnover continue to plague the industry. The compliance committee is also vetting additional changes to the Compliance Verification Program, helping to expand enforcement and ensure the Association is diving deep enough into various items to adequately ensure compliance to federal regulation. And, soon, the NATM Resource Library will be expanded to include an online store to include decal purchases as well as increased content much of which will be offered for free to members.

NATM is also planning several webinars to be released throughout the year. Webinars that are to be scheduled include topics such as increasing trailer payload, trailer technology trends, a government affairs update, and more. The Association is beginning work on the 2022 Convention & Trade show set for Feb. 1-3 in sunny Tampa, Fla. To learn more about the events NATM is hosting, visit www.NATM.com/natm-events.

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May/June 2021

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Strategic Plan Update

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Strategic Plan Update

By Kendra Ansley, NATM Executive Director The NATM Board of Directors adopted the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan with three focus areas: support industry growth; be the recognized leader in trailer safety; and maintain the integrity and raise the value of the Compliance Verification Program (CVP).

Prior to 2021, NATM checked off projects and programming such as transitioning the CVP to a digital platform for real-time reporting and photo use, adding a Dealer Affiliate program, creating the Dealer Compendium, hosting the annual Workforce Development Summit, and expanding the reach of Trailer Safety Week, which touched more than 90,000 individuals through social media alone in 2020.

In the first four months of 2021, the Association prepared to launch the Online Store; added a Trailer Dealer Committee to guide dealer programming; expanded the Convention to include dealers; provided additional education to compliance staff with industry experts; and, updated enforcement practices for the Compliance Verification Program related to tire recordkeeping, tire placards, and lighting. With roughly 20 months left in the existing Strategic Plan, much work remains to be undertaken in each focus area, with many new programs and benefits on the horizon.

Support Industry Growth Develop a dynamic program to support growth of the industry to assist in the success of members, which will include: workforce development, technology, and business services.

In the coming months, NATM members can look forward to several new offerings.

NATM will be releasing instructional materials and templates for creating or improving an in-house Quality Management System (QMS). NATM has long recommended members have a QMS in place. As the industry continues to face workforce retention

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challenges, having a documented system of policies, procedures, and work instructions in place can help onboard employees more quickly, support consistent output, and increase employee engagement. As the cost of doing business increases, a robust QMS can reduce mistakes, waste, and ultimately order cycle times.

In the next 12 months, NATM will be launching a new virtual educational program for trailer technicians—the NATM Academy. Designed to support workforce development and consistency across technician practices, more than 20 courses have been created by industry experts. Courses will cover various trailer systems, teaching students how systems function as well as proper maintenance and repair techniques, including how to identify areas of concern.

Marketing resources are also on the horizon. NATM will be providing members on-demand webinars to support small businesses in their marketing efforts, as well as creating DIY toolkits for in-house marketing to help members make the most of their resources with ease.

NATM staff are also developing additional programming and resources aimed at students and young professionals—creating opportunities for the industry to recruit, engage, and retain employees.

Be the Recognized Leader in Trailer Safety Establish robust initiatives that effectively raise awareness of the NATM brand with a primary focus on consumers.

NATM is continuing to expand the reach of Trailer Safety Week with new partners and champions gearing up for the fourth annual event June 6-12, 2021. The Association has also begun working with state Departments of Transportation who are looking to be more involved and engaged during the weeklong www.NATM.com

Strategic Plan Update campaign. For more information on Trailer Safety Week, visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com/interest. Beyond Trailer Safety Week, NATM will be focusing on enhancing dealer benefits with the new Trailer Dealer Committee and an upcoming survey to help guide dealer programming to best meet affiliate needs. While dealers were invited to participate in the 2021 Convention which was unfortunately cancelled, NATM is already working on the 2022 show, creating specialized dealer events and educational tracks. Outside of these efforts the NATM Marketing Committee and staff have developed and are beginning to implement a Strategic Marketing Plan—highlighting the value of compliance and the NATM decal amongst other efforts.

Maintain the Integrity and Raise the Value of the Compliance Verification Program (CVP) Establish and execute an evaluation process aimed at maintaining the integrity and raising the value of the Compliance Verification Program. Areas to be studied include: recommended practices, inspection team resources/training, and executing recommendations from legal counsel.

In 2019, the Association focused heavily on recommendations from its legal counsel, bringing the program online with real-time reporting, process clarity, and increased information-sharing

www.NATM.com

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with members, accomplishing the objectives of the strategic plan in this area. The Strategic Plan requires an annual review of Recommended Practices and in 2021 that requirement was amended to include a complete and thorough review of every item on the NATM checklist. The Compliance Committee is currently working through additional enforcement expansions to ensure the program is adequately verifying process compliance with federal regulation. Further, the compliance team has scheduled trainings with several industry experts to broaden their own knowledge of component parts and member services.

This will provide an even better member experience through both the compliance process and ongoing technical support.

The NATM compliance team is committed to, and passionate about, increasing the value of the CVP, ensuring its integrity, and expanding their own knowledge-base.

The NATM Strategic Plan includes a number of initiatives, and many releases are expected in the near future. The Association is committed to continuously improving and evolving to meet member needs. Be on the lookout for more information as these programs are launched! For more information about NATM’s Strategic Plan, contact NATM Executive Director Kendra Ansley at Kendra.Ansley@natm.com.

May/June 2021

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2020 NATM ANNUAL REPORT

L O O K 2 0 2 0

I N S I D E

A N N U A L

T H E

R E P O R T

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2020 At A Glance

Rising To The Challenge

Enhancing Your Benefits

Moving Forward

22 00 22 0 0AA T TAA LA GG LA NN CC EE

When COVID-19 halted country in March, NATM When COVID-19 halted the the country in March, NATM drastically changed course alongside its members.

In those drastically changed course alongside its members.

In those early days, NATM sending regular updates to its early days, NATM waswas sending regular updates to its members about changing guidance definition members about changing guidance andand the the definition of of essential.

Association created an online COVID essential.

TheThe Association created an online COVID resource center members as well.

Meanwhile, NATM resource center for for members as well.

Meanwhile, NATM transitioned its Compliance Verification Program (CVP) transitioned its Compliance Verification Program (CVP) to to to assist members a remote process as well to continue to assist members in in a remote process as well to continue ensuring their compliance.

As the country began to reopen, ensuring their compliance.

As the country began to reopen, members brought their workforces, NATM again members brought backback their workforces, andand NATM again pivoted, bringing members Workplace Safety Guidance, pivoted, bringing members Workplace Safety Guidance, a a webinar series with Marsh and McLennan Agency, and again webinar series with Marsh and McLennan Agency, and again altering to allow onsite trailer inspections altering the the CVPCVP to allow for for onsite trailer inspections while remaining portion would be handled remotely while the the remaining portion would be handled remotely to to surveyed ensure participant safety.

Association surveyed its its ensure participant safety.

TheThe Association members about impacts of COVID advocated members about the the impacts of COVID andand advocated for for member needs on Capitol of kind its kind member needs on Capitol HillHill for for the the firstfirst of its virtual Regulatory Roundup.

As COVID changed world, virtual Regulatory Roundup.

As COVID changed the the world, NATM adapted to deliver member value a “new normal” NATM adapted to deliver member value in ain“new normal” again. timetime andand timetime again.

I NGG EENNHHAANNCCI N YYOOUURR MMEEMMBBEERR I TSS BBEENNEEFFI T

Year-Round Sponsorship Opportunties Now Available

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NATM SPONSORSHIPS 2021 Year-Round Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor NATM is excited to announce new year-round sponsorship opportunities for suppliers, service providers, and trailer manufacturers. The cancellation of the 2021 NATM Convention & Trade Show was not only a disappointment but a detriment to many businesses as the NATM Show serves as a major sales and marketing opportunity. Included in those sales and marketing opportunities are convention sponsorships which allow members to advertise to potential customers while supporting the success of the show. Historically, these were the only sponsorships available from the Association, but with the cancellation of the event, members have lost these opportunities. To create additional ways to get in front of potential customers, NATM has created the following sponsorships: NATM Webinar Sponsorship Program

•

Press release drafted by NATM for sponsor to submit to news outlets of their choice NATM New Member Welcome Program

Participating sponsors have a fantastic chance to raise brand awareness with all newly joining NATM members through the NATM New Member Welcome Program. The Welcome Program Sponsorship gives suppliers and service providers the ability to reach new customers and market their products. This Welcome Program Sponsorship opportunity grants only two (2) NATM members with the ability to be the first company to welcome new members to the Association and to market their products or services before any others.

Benefits include but are not limited to:

NATM educational webinars take place online throughout the year with a live audience in attendance, including trailer manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers. The webinars will be housed on NATM’s Online Resource Library and accessible anytime by NATM members and dealer affiliates for free and, where appropriate, non-members for a fee.

•

Welcome packet insert/brochure from sponsoring company included in all new member packets (material provided by sponsor)

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One (1) article published in Tracks magazine annually (Onepage limit)

Benefits include but are not limited to:

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Logo branded cards for 1-year anniversary

•

•

Logo branded email for 6-month follow up

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Sponsors receive monthly lists of members (after joined)

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Three minute pre-recorded video or live presentation by sponsor, to be played at the beginning of the sponsored webinar Sponsor logos featured on marketing of event and registration

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Branded waiting room with sponsor logo

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Closing credits–thank you slide with shoutout to sponsor

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Trailer Safety Week Sponsorship Program The sole sponsor of Trailer Safety Week has a prime opportunity to promote their brand while supporting a nation-wide initiative.

The mission of Trailer Safety Week (TSW) is to improve the

www.NATM.com

Year-Round Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available

Tracks at any time throughout the year to sponsor a single video or, for example, the entirety of the New Member Welcome Program.

To access the entire sponsorship prospectus, visit www.NATM.com/sponsor_2021. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or for questions regarding membership and events, contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com.

Laclede Chain Mfg. Co. during their introduction video for their sponsored webinar.

safety of the nation’s roadways by raising trailer safety awareness through education of end-users, dealers, and manufacturers on safe trailering practices. Held the first week of June every year, Trailer Safety Week has reached 300,000+ individuals and is the first nationwide traffic safety initiative aimed at light- and medium-duty trailer towing. NATM has developed sponsorship opportunity for a company interested in supporting goodwill initiatives in improving the safety of the nation. The sponsor of Trailer Safety Week will create positive PR and raise awareness of their company, all the while improving the safety of America’s roadways.

Limited to only one sponsor, the Trailer Safety Week Official Sponsor will be listed on all marketing pieces for TSW. In 2020, TSW reached over 90,000 people across the nation. In 2021, Trailer Safety Week will be June 6-12.

Benefits include but are not limited to: •

Free Tracks magazine article on sponsoring company (two page limit)

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Featured logo on home page of www.TSW.com

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Logo featured with NATM’s Compliance Program Webinar during TSW

•

Three minute pre-recorded video or live presentation during NATM’s Compliance Program Webinar during TSW

•

Social media thank you posts

Each NATM sponsorship comes with unique benefits, but across the board, sponsors are able to raise brand awareness in front of a targeted audience, whether that be trailer manufacturers or dealers. All options allow for flexibility as companies can sign up www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

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NATM Welcomes Rutkowski as Administrative Assistant II

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NATM Welcomes Rutkowski as Administrative Assistant II

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

NATM is pleased to announce that Catie Rutkowski joined the NATM staff as Administrative Assistant II in February.

Catie Rutkowski, NATM Administrative Assistant II

Catie received her Bachelor of Integrated Studies degree from Washburn University with an emphasis in English literature and psychology. Her past experience with the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center and its membership program will benefit her role greatly at NATM. As an NATM Administrative Assistant, Catie will be a key asset to expanding the Association’s membership programming as she identifies new companies that would benefit from joining NATM, reaches out to prospective members, and processes applicants as they join. Additionally, she will take a leadership role in convention registrations, assist as a staff liaison on multiple committees, and help improve the Association’s database accuracy while supporting NATM’s government affairs program.

Her background in English literature will serve her well as she assists with editing Tracks magazine and other publications.

“I am very excited to have Catie on the team,” said NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan. “The addition of this staff position demonstrates that NATM is on the correct path to continue expanding our membership numbers and benefits.

Catie’s easy-going demeanor and eye for accuracy will assist us in reaching trailer manufacturers that would benefit from NATM’s Compliance Verification Program and, in turn, help improve the safety of our roadways.”

Catie enjoys knitting, reading, and spending time with her husband and son in her free time. During the summer months, most of her weekends are spent at the Lake of the Ozarks with family.

“I am so excited to join this great team,” said Catie. “I look forward to working with both the NATM staff and its members.”

Catie is looking forward to speaking with NATM members and getting to know the industry. Welcome Catie to the Association by phone at (785) 272-4433 or by email at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com.

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NATM Welcomes Wiebler as Administrative Assistant

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NATM Welcomes Wiebler as Administrative Assistant

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

NATM is pleased to announce that Abby Wiebler joined the NATM staff as an Administrative Assistant in February.

Abby Wiebler, NATM Adimistrative Assistant

Abby received her Bachelor’s in Business Administration at Washburn University, where her main focuses were marketing and international business. She served as project manager in an international group of students from Washburn University and UC Leuven-Limburg Belgium. The partnership included projects with Hills Pet Nutrition and Belgium-based businesses.

As project manager, she worked with an international team and kept herself and others on task, as well as utilized strategies to maintain efficient processes and encouraged growth within the industry. Her international, cross-cultural communication skills will be an asset to NATM when communicating with members in the United States and abroad.

As the NATM Administrative Assistant, Abby is the warm voice answering all calls at NATM’s Headquarters in Topeka, Kan. She processes decal and product orders and provides administrative support to the compliance department. She also assists the team in improving member satisfaction and with the NATM Quality Management System.

“I am thrilled to have Abby join our staff,” said Executive Director Kendra Ansley. “She is a quick learner, detail oriented, and a self-starter. In her short time, she has already proven herself to be a tremendous asset to the team.”

In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, reading, and rollerskating.

“I’m excited to get to know our members and contribute to their continued growth and success,” said Abby regarding her new position. She is thrilled to join NATM and looks forward to helping fellow NATM staff and members.

Abby is looking forward to speaking with NATM members.

Welcome NATM Administrative Assistant Abby Wiebler to the Association by phone at (785) 272-4433 or by email at Abby.Wiebler@natm.com.

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www.NATM.com

NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide: Coming Fall 2021

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NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide: Coming Fall 2021

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor

More than 900 trailer manufacturers and suppliers to the lightand medium-duty trailer industry will be listed in the 2021/2022 NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide. This printed directory is designed to be used by trailer manufacturers looking for suppliers and select trailer dealers looking for the best, compliant trailer options in the industry.

The NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide is an annual, free NATM member benefit and is distributed to purchasing agents and main contacts within the Association.

Published by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, the Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide has multiple sections to organize information consisting of: •

Membership Directory •

•

Alphabetically by company name

Buyer’s Guide •

Associate (supplier) Members by category—this guide is divided by supplier category and sorted alphabetically

•

Regular Members by category—trailer manufacturer companies are listed by trailer category such as cargo, landscape or utility

Although many industries are moving away from printed publications, NATM’s membership continues to prefer the feeling of holding a hard copy to flip through to find suppliers to meet their needs and this year’s printed Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide is scheduled to arrive this fall to NATM members and select dealers!

Printed Advertising Opportunities Advertising in the NATM Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide is the only way to visually show off your trailers and components to readers.

There are options to fit every budget, from quarter page advertisements to full pages. This year, NATM is also introducing new brochure inserts. Stand out among the crowd with your

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very own insert. Currently, brochure inserts are $200 off if you purchase before June 1.

If you are interested in advertising, reach out to NATM Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore at Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com for a contract.

Online Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide Is searching for a new supplier on the internet more your speed? Have you misplaced your hard copy of the Membership Directory? Don’t worry! NATM’s members are also listed on NATM’s website on the online Membership Directory at www.NATM.com.

The online Directory & Buyer’s Guide requires no password or account to access the company information. Search criteria can be narrowed down to search by category, state and keyword. Find a new business partner today at: www.NATM.com/membership-directory.

You can update your company information at any time by using the secure member login at www.NATM.com. If you have forgotten your username and/or password, use the “Reset password or forgot username” link or contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or by calling (785) 272-4433.

Digital Advertising Opportunities Advertising opportunities are also available for the Online Membership Directory and Buyer’s Guide. Your company could be featured at the top of the category of your choice, pending availability. Your ad will show up first above all other listings, and the Directory is available to the general public, increasing your company’s exposure. Ads will link to a webpage of your choice. This opportunity also comes with flexible deadlines.

If you are interested in advertising, reach out to NATM Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore at Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com for a contract.

www.NATM.com

Maximixing Your Membership: Utilizing Membership Lists

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Maximizing Your Membership: Utilizing Membership Lists

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director This installment of Maximizing Your Membership will highlight a free benefit for all NATM Member companies: utilizing the NATM membership lists! A highly underutilized benefit of membership, this spreadsheet of company information can assist your company in accessing new suppliers, service providers, and trailer manufacturers.

Why would I need to use the Membership List?

Have supply chain shortages disrupted your current business and you’re looking for additional material or component suppliers?

Are you trying to find a new service provider for software, engineering, or insurance? Are you looking to contact a certain type of trailer manufacturer? Are you a dealer hoping to offer a new line of trailers on your lot?

NATM has the solution: an entire database of suppliers, service providers, and trailer manufacturers across the continent that are dedicated to the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. If you are looking for a company to work with, NATM can run a list to meet your individual needs!

What is included in the Membership List?

Depending on what you are looking for, NATM can run a simple list of all companies and their main contacts, or send you a full spreadsheet that lists all the categories that each company offers.

You can then filter the spreadsheet based on what you are looking for, such as “Utility Trailers” or “Jacks/Landing Gear”. Need a simple, straight forward list to just contact brake suppliers?

NATM can send you just that!

The spreadsheet of information lists all companies in the association, including main contacts, the address, emails, phone numbers, and the categories of what they offer.

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How do I get a Membership List?

To request a membership list, contact Catie Rutkowski, NATM Administrative Assistant II, at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433.

The NATM membership lists are sent via email as Excel spreadsheets in a user-friendly, straightforward format.

What can’t it be used for?

You cannot use this mailing list to automatically sign up NATM members for electronic newsletters and mailing lists without their express approval. There are anti-spam regulations, and you must comply with the U.S. CAN-SPAM Act. To add companies to your mailing lists, you must receive an “opt-in” from individuals, as well as include an unsubscribe link in every email campaign.

For more information about the CAN-SPAM Act, look to the following page or visit www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/ guidance/can-spam-act-compliance-guide-business.

To request a membership list, contact Catie Rutkowski, NATM Administrative Assistant II, at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. www.NATM.com

CAN-SPAM ACT

CAN-SPAM ACT

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By US Federal Trade Commission Do you use email in your business? The CAN-SPAM Act, a law that sets the rules for commercial email, establishes requirements for commercial messages, gives recipients the right to have you stop emailing them, and spells out tough penalties for violations.

Despite its name, the CAN-SPAM Act doesn’t apply just to bulk email. It covers all commercial messages, which the law defines as “any electronic mail message the primary purpose of which is the commercial advertisement or promotion of a commercial product or service,” including email that promotes content on commercial websites. The law makes no exception for businessto-business email. That means all email—for example, a message to former customers announcing a new product line—must comply with the law.

Each separate email in violation of the CAN-SPAM Act is subject to penalties of up to $43,792, so non-compliance can be costly.

But following the law isn’t complicated. Here’s a rundown of CAN-SPAM’s main requirements: 1. Don’t use false or misleading header information. Your “From,” “To,” “Reply-To,” and routing information— including the originating domain name and email address— must be accurate and identify the person or business who initiated the message.

2. Don’t use deceptive subject lines. The subject line must accurately reflect the content of the message.

3. Identify the message as an ad. The law gives you a lot of leeway in how to do this, but you must disclose clearly and conspicuously that your message is an advertisement.

4. Tell recipients where you’re located. Your message must include your valid physical postal address. This can be your current street address, a post office box you’ve registered with the U.S. Postal Service, or a private mailbox you’ve registered with a commercial mail receiving agency established under Postal Service regulations.

5. Tell recipients how to opt out of receiving future email from you. Your message must include a clear and conspicuous explanation of how the recipient can opt out of getting email from you in the future. Craft the notice in a way that’s easy for an ordinary person to recognize, read, and www.NATM.com

understand. Creative use of type size, color, and location can improve clarity. Give a return email address or another easy Internetbased way to allow people to communicate their choice to you. You may create a menu to allow a recipient to opt out of certain types of messages, but you must include the option to stop all commercial messages from you. Make sure your spam filter doesn’t block these opt-out requests.

6. Honor opt-out requests promptly. Any opt-out mechanism you offer must be able to process opt-out requests for at least 30 days after you send your message. You must honor a recipient’s opt-out request within 10 business days. You can’t charge a fee, require the recipient to give you any personally identifying information beyond an email address, or make the recipient take any step other than sending a reply email or visiting a single page on an Internet website as a condition for honoring an opt-out request. Once people have told you they don’t want to receive more messages from you, you can’t sell or transfer their email addresses, even in the form of a mailing list. The only exception is that you may transfer the addresses to a company you’ve hired to help you comply with the CAN-SPAM Act. 7. Monitor what others are doing on your behalf. The law makes clear that even if you hire another company to handle your email marketing, you can’t contract away your legal responsibility to comply with the law. Both the company whose product is promoted in the message and the company that actually sends the message may be held legally responsible.

For more information on the CAN-SPAM Act, visit www.

FTC.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/can-spam-actcompliance-guide-business.

May/June 2021

37

NATM Invites Members to Get Social

Tracks

NATM Invites Members to Get Social

By Savana Morrison, NATM Marketing Director

NATM wants to celebrate members’ stories, achievements, and the vital role they play in the trailering industry. That’s why the Association is calling on members to “Get Social with NATM” and submit their stories in order to be featured in one of three NATM marketing campaigns.

Where in The World is the NATM Compliance Decal?

Verifying compliance with federal regulations and industry best practices is no small feat. NATM member trailer manufacturers’ commitment to safety deserves public recognition. While NATM continues to market the value of the compliance decal in a number of different ways, NATM would love to know: where in the world is your compliant trailer?

NATM is looking to collect photos of trailers with the NATM decal in your everyday life—sitting at a job site, hauling a boat to the lake, at the campground, or wherever it may be! The “Where in the World is the NATM Compliance Decal” social media campaign posts will feature the following: •

Manufacturer of the trailer tagged

•

Photo of the trailer being featured

•

Direct link to the member’s directory listing on www.NATM.com

​ ecognize NATM members that help America work and play R safely by submitting a “Where in the World is the NATM Compliance Decal” post today!

Photos and a brief description of where the picture was taken can be submitted to Decals@natm.com. #WomanCrushWednesday It is estimated that by 2025, U.S. manufacturing will face a shortage of two million workers, and unfortunately, women remain the most underutilized workforce population in manufacturing.

A key to best tapping into this talent pool is to begin recognizing women in the industry and showcasing female representation in a field many women may not have previously considered. In an effort to showcase the full spectrum of what it means to be a manufacturer, NATM created its #WomanCrushWednesday series.

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An example of NATM social media post. Submit your photos today!

www.NATM.com

NATM Invites Members to Get Social

Tracks Know someone at your company who should be NATM’s next #WomanCrushWednesday? Simply send the following information to Marketing Director Savana Morrison at Savana.Morrison@natm.com to be included in this social media series:

NATM is looking to collect information regarding the workforce challenge your company faced, how you successfully navigated said challenge, and any advice you might have for those in the industry with similar obstacles. Combating Workforce Issues social posts will feature:

•

First & Last Name

•

Your company’s story

•

Position Title

•

Tagged social media profile

•

Brief explanation of the work they do at your company

•

Photo related to the story being discussed

•

Picture of nominee

•

Anything else you’d like to include!

Photos and a brief description can be submitted to Marketing Director Savana Morrison at Savana.Morrison@natm.com.

NATM’s social media pages can be found at:

Combating Workforce Issues In the trailer manufacturing industry, a successful business is dependent upon an educated, highly skilled workforce; however, it is becoming a challenge to retain this type of worker. That’s why NATM wants to feature members who have overcome this challenge to successfully obtain a skilled workforce.

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May/June 2021

39

Understanding the Importance of Inclusion in Your Onboarding Processes

Tracks

Understanding the Importance of Inclusion in Your Onboarding Processes

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor This is the second article in the Diversity and Inclusion series. Each article focuses on one aspect of diversity and inclusion and gives definitions, examples, and advice on how to implement similar programs. Most of the information presented in these articles was gathered from a diversity summit hosted by The Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education partner of the National Association of Manufacturing (NAM). This two-day summit covered what diversity and inclusion mean, challenges in these fields specific to manufacturing, and how to implement diversity and inclusion initiatives at all levels in any size of company.

This year NAM announced a pledge for action to help close the equity gap in the industry. By 2025, the goal is for manufacturers to have made 50,000 tangible actions to repair the inequal opportunities in the industry and create 300,000 pathways to job opportunities specifically for people of color and black people.

The final goal is to change the workforce by 2030. Tracks coverage of the summit will be broken into several articles. This second installment will give a brief overview of inclusion and what it means, while the next few will dive deeper into certain aspects of diversity. Lastly, coverage will provide practical tips and advice on how to start diversity and inclusion initiatives.

If diversity is the “numbers bit” then inclusion is the “feelings bit” as Mona Babury of Pfizer, Inc. explained. “If you spend all your efforts on diversity, it’s like filling up a bucket with a hole in the bottom. You need the inclusion piece” to be successful.

Inclusion is what helps ensure people stay at the organization.

Larry Jeminson of HBCU Connect posed some important questions when interacting with another, specifically a person of color. These questions highlighted inclusion’s emphasis on feelings, belonging, environment, etc. rather than on numbers or facets of diversity. His questions regarding inclusion are listed below.

•

How do I feel when you engage me?

•

Are you trying to make it comfortable for me to come on board, make an impact, and be successful?

•

How are promotions and emails showing inclusion? Are there people of color or other minorities?

•

What considerations were given to this role? If I accept, will I fit in?

•

Are you cultivating a position of inclusion when you engage me?

What is Inclusion?

Why is it important?

Diversity and inclusion are often mentioned in tandem, and while diversity is relatively simple to explain (it refers to the practice of including different types of people in groups, organizations, or situations or refers to different aspects of the human experience), the term inclusion is more muddled. There is no one definition of inclusion because it cannot be quantified in the same way diversity can. Inclusion is often referred to the step beyond diversity, when diversity is ingrained in the organization and people feel included, as the name suggests.

There are many dimensions of diversity and not all can be tracked, measured, or otherwise indicated. This is why inclusion is so important; the foundation for diversity to blossom is already there without the need for those diverse employees to identify themselves. An inclusive environment provides a safe space for employees.

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As discussed in the first article in this series, diversity can serve as a way to expand the pool of potential employees which is a crucial factor in the face of the workforce shortage. Hiring www.NATM.com

Understanding the Importance of Inclusion in Your Onboarding Processes diverse employees is a way to get a foot in the door, but if the environment they are brought into is not healthy and inclusive, those employees the organization worked so hard to recruit will leave.

In an industry that is already struggling with a workforce shortage, creating an inclusive environment is one way to help mitigate turnover rates and costs. In addition, diversity and inclusion has been shown to help companies financially.

Companies in the top quartile of racial and gender diversity are more likely to have better financial returns.

Tracks

Attention Members:

ARE YOU GETTING NATM EMAIL COMMUNICATIONS?

Future articles will focus on various dimensions of diversity, including race and ethnicity, gender, and age. More resources can be found at: •

www.TheManufacturingInstitute.org/diversity-inclusion/ resources

For questions or article suggestions, contact NATM Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore at Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com.

www.NATM.com

WHITE-LIST THE FOLLOWING EMAILS TO RECEIVE FUTURE COMMUNICATIONS: @NATM.COM SAVANA@NATM.CCSEND.COM

May/June 2021

41

Recruiting and Retaining LGBTQIA+ Employees

Tracks

Recruiting and Retaining LGBTQIA+ Employees

By Truck & Trailer Makers Recruitment Strategies Incorporating strategies into your Human Resources efforts to recruit and retain LGBTQIA+ employeesis necessary, and the following suggestions provide a jumping off point:

Equality and inclusion in the workforce are instrumental to your organization’s success. By employing individuals of all backgrounds, you are sending a message to the community at large, to prospective employees, and to current employees that your organization is fully accepting of all talented individuals.

Attracting a wide array of individuals for your organization also establishes a reputation that your organization’s culture supports minorities, women, and queer individuals. In addition, diversity creates an environment of different ideas and concepts that could further your business.

•

Offer health care benefits for all marriages and partnerships, including trans-friendly care like hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

•

Offer domestic partner benefits and FMLA leave for queer relationships, including adoption and the birth of a child.

•

Sponsor an employee resource group for LGBTQIA+ workers. Provide the group with a budget and access to meeting rooms to congregate. These individuals can assist in policy-making procedures and recruitment efforts while also being provided a comfortable place to meet.

•

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May/June 2021

To learn more about LGBTQIA+ issues, visit any of the websites listed.

www.NATM.com

Recruiting and Retaining LGBTQIA+ Employees

Tracks •

Advertise and promote your business in LGBTQIA+ inclusive at community events, organizations, and publications with this demographic in mind. Donate or help sponsor queer charities and organizations.

•

Update your HR policies to include protections of sexual orientation and gender identity, including prohibiting homophobic and transphobic behaviors and comments.

•

•

•

Attracting and retaining a diverse work force makes good business sense and is also beneficial to the community at large.

For more information on forming relationships with other employers who support LGBT workers, visit the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce at www.nglcc.org.

Other LGBT and queer centered resources include: •

www.HRC.org/resources

•

www.HRC.org/resources/allies

•

www.HRC.org/resources/workplace

Make your tolerance policy and diversity programs are widely known to employees. Make it clear that certain offensive behaviors will not be tolerated.

•

www.TheTrevorProject.org/resources/

•

www.TransEquality.org/about-transgender

Form partnerships with other organizations that have diverse work forces and have nondiscrimination policies covering race, religion, nationality, social/ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, pregnancy, and political affiliation.

For more details about the Trailer Makers Toolkit resource, contact Andrew Dearing, CIC, MWCA, Trailer Industry Risk Management Advisor/Insurance Broker, at Truck and Trailer Makers at ADearing@trailermakersins.com or call (478) 449-5928.

Provide training on LGBTQIA+ issues such as discrimination, lack of adequate health care, and mental health issues to educate all employees.

www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

43

Statistically Speaking

Tracks

Statistically Speaking Submitted by Statistical Surveys

Registration for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry were up 26.4 percent in December 2020. Below are the details of the market’s performance for the five trailer segments as reported by Statistical Surveys: Trailer Type Open

Dec. 2020 29.1%

Jan.–Dec. 2020 6.7%

Enclosed

17.5%

3.7%

Livestock

12.9%

-0.7%

Horse

29.8%

0.6%

Boat

52.9%

9.2%

Industry

27.9%

6.4%

The following are the top five states in sales growth for all trailer segments in 2020.

Ranking 1

State Utah

Percent Growth 25.4%

2

Mississippi

23.4%

3

Arkansas

22.2%

4

South Dakota

19.7%

5

Minnesota

19.5%

Industry registrations for 2020 were up 6.4 percent over 2019.

If there are any questions, or if Statistical Surveys can help, please contact Jeff Jones at (254) 715-1314 or JJones@statisticalsurveys.com.

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Visit americanatire.com for sizes, styles and more. ©2021 Kenda Tires. All rights reserved.

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WE ARE THE MANUFACTURER

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Grease seals

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Mobile home axle parts

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Stay Up-To-Date with The NATM Insider

Tracks

Stay Up-To-Date with The NATM Insider

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor

The NATM Insider is NATM’s monthly electronic newsletter and is emailed to subscribing NATM members the last Saturday morning of every month. Articles published in The Insider include topics such as: • NATM Events & Updates • Welding Trends and Techniques • The Dealer Corner If you would like to receive these communications and subscribe for free, contact NATM Marketing Director Savana Morrison at Savana.Morrison@natm.com.

EASIER FASTER STRONGER SEAMLESS PANEL BONDING & SEALING SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS THAT STICK visit us online www.natconusa.com

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May/June 2021

574-289-7883 www.NATM.com

The Difference is Durability. The Quality is Hutchens.

The 9700 Series With Springs to Support Your Utility Trailer

We now offer two great choices of three-leaf, high-arch, steel springs: Our 12,000 lb. GAWR springs for 42.5” and 44” axle spacings Our 15,000 lb. GAWR springs for 49” axle spacings

Either spring can be used with the Hutch 9700 Series suspension and configured to fit your needs.

Visit www.hutchensindustries.com for more information.

The Hutch 9700 Series.

Share Your Expertise! NATM Calls for Educational Articles and Presentations

Tracks

Share Your Expertise! NATM Calls for Educational Articles and Presentations

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor

NATM is striving to develop additional educational opportunities for NATM members and is looking to leverage Associate members’ expertise in providing content to others in the lightand medium-duty trailer industry.

NATM delivers learning opportunities in a number of formats including online Educational Summits, convention workshops, webinars and Tracks magazine articles. The purpose of events and articles is to provide valuable industry information and training to NATM members.

The focus of the presentations or articles are not to be on the products or services of the presenting company unless submitting a specific “Company Spotlight” or “Product Profile” article for consideration.

Members have shown interest in learning more about the following: • • • •

Welding LEAN manufacturing Quality control Technology

Educational webinars are at no cost to NATM members. If your company is interested in participating in any of these venues, please let NATM know.

For more information about contributing, contact Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore at Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433.

Tie Down Is Your #1 Source For Manufacturing The Most Reliable Trailer Parts & Accessories: • Custom Aluminum, PVC, & Steel Fenders • Boat Trailer Accessories • And All Your Custom Fabrication Needs

Atlanta, GA. • www.tiedown.com

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May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

“ENGINEERED TO LAST”

LOGOS • WARNING DECALS • BANNERS VINYL CUT GRAPHICS • SIGNS • METAL NAMEPLATES

FOR THE TRAILER INDUSTRY

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New 2021 Media Kit Available with Advertising Opportunities

Tracks

New 2021 Media Kit Available with Advertising Opportunities

By Elizabeth Moore, NATM Tracks Editor

NATM NATM NATM ADVERTISING NATM ADVERTISING ADVERTISING WHY ADVERTISE WITH NATM ADVERTISING

Placing advertising in front of trailer manufacturers and dealers is one of the easiest and most effective benefits of NATM membership. Advertising in the bimonthly Tracks magazine, on www.NATM.com, the annual NATM Convention Program, or the Online Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide is easy. NATM has further simplified the process by putting all the information in one convenient document, the NATM 2021 Media Kit!

If you, or someone you know, would like to receive Tracks magazine or advertising notices, please let NATM know, and you 785.272.4433 will be added to the mailing list.

Tracks magazine follows:

NATM.COM

78 . 2Y7A2N . 4@4 N 3 3A T M . C O M MEGHA N5. R deadlines for contracts are as N A Tand M . Cartwork OM 2O 7 2M. 4 4 3 3 M E G H A N . R Y A N @ N A7T8M5..C NATM.COM

MEGHAN.RYAN@NATM.COM

7 8 5 . 2May 7 2 . 415 433 July/August Deadline: NATM.COM September/October* Deadline: July 15 ELIZABETH.MOORE@NATM.COM *Trailer Dealer Special Issue November/December Deadline: Sept. 15

Fill out the contract, send it in, and once your ad is published, NATM will send you an invoice for payment.

NATM offers advertisers a unique opportunity to reach

It is free for NATM members to upload their company logos and If you have any questions or concerns about advertising or trailer manufacturers, update company information on NATM’s online Membership suppliers, trailer dealers and Tracks magazine, contact Tracks Editor Elizabeth Moore at Directory, and your listing can be edited. all in one place. With both digital and print consumers Elizabeth.Moore@natm.com. NATM encourages members avenues available, NATM is suresuggestions to haveforwhat you're to submit Tracks article topics and welcomes looking for. for member spotlight articles. submissions

900+ 369,000+ 22,000+

NATM MEMBERS AS OF SEPTEMBER 2020

WEBSITE VISITORS ANNUALLY

TRACKS MAGAZINES DISTRIBUTED ANNUALLY

2021 ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES NATM is enhancing the advertising opportunities it offers its members. With more options available to advertisers than ever before, 2021 promises to be a year full of new opportunities.

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May/June 2021

NATM.COM BANNER ADS

NATM INSIDER (ENEWS)

TRACKS MAGAZINE

CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW PROGRAM MAP

PRINTED MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY & BUYER'S GUIDE

ONLINE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY BANNER AD

QUESTIONS? CONTACT TRACKS EDITOR ELIZABETH MOORE AT ELIZABETH.MOORE@NATM.COM

www.NATM.com

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Trailer Technology Trends Webinar Sponsored by Intellifinishing: May 20

Tracks

Trailer Technology Trends Webinar Sponsored by Intellifinishing: May 20

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

On Thursday, May 20, NATM will be offering a FREE webinar for NATM members and dealer affiliates. Sponsored by IntelliFinishing, the Trailer Technology Trends webinar will update members and dealer affiliates on the advancements in the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, particularly in regard to technological improvements. The Emerging Trends in Trailering presentation has been an annual hit at the NATM Convention & Trade Show, and NATM is excited to bring this content to members via webinar.

The Trailer Technology Trends webinar will update attendees about:

•

Fabricating in the New Norm—Robots in Trailer Manufacturing

•

Cargo Loading

•

Free Welding Resources

Date: Thursday, May 20, 2021 Time: 2:00 p.m. CST Presenter: NATM Technical Director Terry Jones

•

Digital Owner’s Manuals

Register: NATM.com

•

VIN Software

Questions? Contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at (785) 272-4433 or Meghan.Ryan@natm.com.

About the Sponsor The sponsor of this webinar is IntelliFinishing of Salina, Kan. IntelliFinishing automated finishing systems are an extremely flexible, bolt together finishing system that can handle very large or long products or even a wide range of product sizes and weights; often in a tight footprint. Intuitive conveyor controls integrated with each piece of process equipment ensures that every trailer and trailer part achieve its own optimal finish. In addition, IntelliFinishing systems typically cost much less to operate compared to conventional systems.

For more information about IntelliFinishing, contact John Claman, Sales and Marketing Supervisor, at jclaman@intellifinishing.com or call (785) 577-9104.

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May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

Tracks

www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

55

A Day in the Life of an NATM Compliance Consultant

Tracks

Day in the Life of an NATM Compliance Consultant

By Terry Jones, NATM Technical Director

In the past year, NATM has implemented several changes to the Compliance Verification Program (CVP) due to the Association’s continual effort to improve, while also protecting the health and safety of members and staff in the wake of COVID-19. These changes, combined with the vast diversity in our membership in types of trailers produced and geography, make it an interesting career as we assist members with their compliance requirements across the country. NATM currently has two compliance consultants on staff who regularly conduct compliance consultations, and as Technical Director, I complete a small number of consultations each year.

Pre-COVID-19, the average week looked much different for consultants than it does today. They would fly to a region and conduct the entire consultation process onsite. This process would typically take around three days and would include anywhere from a handful to a dozen consultations. At present, due to safety precautions, consultants avoid air travel whenever

possible to minimize possible exposure to the virus. Further, NATM has separated consultations into two parts, the onsite trailer inspection and the remote documentation/informational portion rather than conducting the entire consultation onsite to reduce possible exposure to virus both for our members and consultants. This means the amount of time onsite has also been minimized, and thus more consultations can be conducted within the same time frame.

The concentration of members varies wildly across the United States. Certain parts have a cluster of members such as Elkhart, Ind. or northeast Texas while other parts of the country have very few member facilities like areas in Nevada or Wyoming. In early March, I travelled to Elkhart and I was able to conduct 21 trailer inspections within two and half days. On the other hand, I have also travelled thousands of miles in many more days only to be able to conduct a fraction of the inspections completed in Elkhart.

It’s not just a mudguard.

It’s Selection, Delivery, Fit, Fabrication & Service.

H.E. PARMER COMPANY Nashville, TN (615) 256-4687 www.hepop.com

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May/June 2021

www.NATM.com

Day in the Life of an NATM Compliance Consultant

Tracks When determining the length of consultations, the type of trailer involved is yet another factor. Inspecting a utility trailer that is 79 inches wide and has a GVWR of 2,990 lbs. can be fully inspected in less than a few minutes, while a horse trailer or car hauler with a GVWR over 10,000 lbs. will take significantly more time. This drastic change in inspection time is due to the number of relevant items on the CVP checklist that need to be accounted for, such as clearance lamps. The small utility trailer will not require them but the horse trailer will. Conspicuity treatment (DOT tape) is another example; a car hauler is required to have the tape while the small utility trailer is not. If the consultant is inspecting a boat trailer, the hand winch must also be inspected. Each of these checklist items will add to a compliance consultation’s length.

Additionally, new members and re-certifying members usually have differing consultation lengths. Re-certifying members’ consultations typically flow smoother and conclude quicker than new member consultations. This difference in length is expected. A new member will usually have more questions or need more clarification as they have not been through the process.

The plethora of regulations governing trailer construction are complicated, so it is unusual for a new member to have all of their trailers align with regulations the first time around.

In addition, just over half of recertifying members pass their consultation outright; though, these members are generally familiar enough with the regulations that explanations do not take as long.

I can’t speak for the other two compliance consultants, Scott Crimmins and Sean Sloan, but I am a talker—guilty as charged.

If a member is unable to accompany me during the trailer inspection, I can move quickly through the process, but if I’m conducting a consultation where the member is present and that member is also a talker, I could be on-site for considerably longer. Favorite college football teams (Kansas State), my or the member’s children (I have three boys and always have a story), outdoor vacation spots (Glacier National Park or Yosemite), and many more topics have been discussed during consultations.

More serious topics of conversations include the workforce shortage or component availability. These discussions help me better understand that particular member and the trailer industry as a whole. If I receive the same questions or concerns over and over again or notice other trends from consultations, then I know our members would benefit from further education on said topics. These topics often result in webinars, forums, Tracks articles, or any other form of communication we think would best disseminate the information. www.NATM.com

Although the structure of the day is pretty straight forward, the times can vary wildly. While many manufacturing operations begin well before 8:00 a.m., some do not. With this in mind, we typically start our day with the first consultation at 8:00 a.m., followed by as many consultations as we can fit within the day while still allowing ample time for the consultations themselves, driving between member locations, and time for lunch. With many operations starting before 8:00 a.m., often times offices will close before 5:00 p.m. which limits how late into the day we can conduct consultations. Usually, consultations begin no later than 3:30 p.m. Deceivingly, this sounds like an early day, but I usually eat lunch in my car driving between member facilities, and at the end of the day, I can either be five minutes from the hotel or five hours. I’ve gotten to the hotel as early as 2:00 p.m. or as late as 2:00 a.m. The rare early days are much preferred as they allow me to input reports, answer member questions, and catch up on email, rather than an overloaded workday once I return.

Speaking of hotels, we all have our favorite companies to use while traveling. The NATM Board is fantastic in allowing consultants to plan and schedule their own travel as long as it is cost conscious. While each consultant differs, my favorites include Southwest Airlines, Hertz or Dollar Rentals, and Holiday Inn Express. When it comes to food, I’m famous around the office for eating McDonalds or pizza multiple times a day and certainly multiple times per trip! For example, I had pizza five times in three days on my recent trip to Elkhart, Ind. Food options have been limited as we attempt to avoid any unnecessary potential exposure to COVID-19; we often use drive-thru or delivery options.

Having great conversations and seeing this wonderful country is fun and exciting, but our purpose is to support our members.

This is the driving force behind all of our processes and recent changes, and why we gladly accept repetitive, subpar food or time away from our families. We are constantly putting effort into molding our program, travel-related and not, to reach the Association’s goal of an extremely high level of member support.

For more information or questions on NATM’s Compliance Verification Program, contact NATM Technical Director Terry Jones at Terry.Jones@natm.com.

May/June 2021

57

NATM Compliance Consultant Fun Facts

Tracks

NATM Compliance Consultant Fun Facts

Terry Jones

Scott Crimmins

Sean Sloan

Title: Compliance Consultant; Documentation Specialist

Title: Compliance Consultant; Trailer Specialist

Favorite Airline: Southwest Favorite Rental Car Company: Dollar or Enterprise

Favorite Airline: Southwest, I have been using them for so long I don’t know how to fly any other.

Favorite Hotel Chain: Holiday Inn Express

Favorite Rental Car Company: Enterprise

Favorite Gas Station Chain: Loves, usually the cleanest bathrooms

Favorite Gas Station Chain: Quik Trip

Favorite Hotel Chain: IHG

Favorite Travel Food: Mexican

Favorite Travel Food: Anything I typically don’t get to eat at home

Favorite Place to Drive: Southern U.S.

Favorite Gas Station Chain: Buc-ees, the best bathrooms, and they have everything.

Title: Technical Director Favorite Airline: Southwest Favorite Rental Car Company: Lately its been Hertz Favorite Hotel Chain: IHG, lots of locations and typically close to consultations

Favorite Place to Drive: Give me a two lane highway through the middle of nowhere western United States and I’m a happy camper

Favorite activity to do when traveling: If there’s any close by, check out college campus’s athletic facilities. Notre Dame was really cool when I was in Elkhart one time.

Favorite activity to do when traveling: Either catch a glimpse of awesome scenery or learn about how that area fits into greater United States history

Favorite thing to listen to while driving: Pretty much anything depending on mood as well.

Favorite thing to listen to while driving: Depends on my mood; audio books, music, or sometimes just silence Favorite Travel Essential: Android Auto.

If the rental car does not have Android Auto I’m not happy.

Favorite Travel Essential: Apple Car Play is a must have; fortunately it is available on most rentals now.

Favorite Travel Food: Beef jerky and trail mix are a must have. I tried to figure out the winner of the chicken sandwich war on my trip to North Carolina.

Popeye’s has my vote.

Favorite Place to Drive: Most interesting places I’ve driven so far are Oregon and eastern Tennessee. So much to see and so different from Kansas.

Favorite activity to do when traveling: Visiting interesting restaurants and breweries that offer something different from the normal fare.

Favorite thing to listen to while driving: Lately it’s been podcasts. If you find an interesting one, it makes the time go by faster.

Favorite Travel Essential: Google Maps, not sure how we got around without it, and I’m old enough to have used my fair share of maps.

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Tracks

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Innovative Adhesive Solutions for the Trailer Industry

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Innovative Adhesive Solutions for the Trailer Industry

By Holly Wilson, Sales Support & Marketing Manager, Bron Tapes

Bron Tapes is the premier producer, converter, and distributor of pressure-sensitive tapes, adhesives, and innovative solutions in North America.

Headquartered in Denver, Colo., Bron Tapes is strategically positioned to service its customers with exceptional customer service, a nationwide presence, and an arsenal of innovative products.

On a Roll Since 1977 Bron Tapes was founded in 1977, and has since grown to ten industrial locations servicing 50+ countries around the world.

“For over 40 years our application-driven focus has set Bron Tapes apart and allows our highly trained Application Specialists to find the best solution to the sticky problems our customers face. As the premier producer, distributor, and converter of pressure sensitive tapes in North America, we aren’t looking to just sell tape—we want to bring value to each and every one of our customers through innovative products and impactful solutions,” said Mike Shand, CEO of Bron Tapes.

Designed to have clean removal up to five months indoors and UV resistant for four weeks, Killer Bee® is a premium masking solution.

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www.NATM.com

Innovative Adhesive Solutions for the Trailer Industry

Bron Tapes supplies the trailer manufacturing industry with innovative solutions for surface protection, attachment and assembly, sound damping, MRO, paint masking, and more.

Killer Attachment and Assembly Killer Red® is a permanent bonding solution ideal for attaching, bonding, laminating, and mounting applications. It’s The World’s Greatest Double Sided Tape™! Killer Red® has been used in the trailer manufacturing industry for mounting tracks, side posts, and gravel guards, as well as emblems and plates.

Clean Green®=Clean Removal Clean Green® is an extremely unique product! Because of its unique properties, Clean Green® has proved successful in trailer surface protection and paint masking applications (as well as a host of others). Clean Green® is chemical and solvent resistant, has clean removal up to six months indoor and 60 days outdoor, is hand-tearable, and waterproof.

Premium Masking Solutions When it comes to razor sharp paint lines, there is no comparison to Killer Bee®. Designed to have clean removal up to five months indoors and UV resistant for four weeks, Killer Bee® is a premium masking solution where sharp paint lines and zero paint bleeds are required.

Tracks

Custom Converting

Would die-cut materials increase productivity and output? By utilizing the expertise of Bron Tapes Application Specialists and the technical capabilities of Bron Converting, many Bron Tapes customers experience zero defects, decreased hand labor, and increased production efficiency by as much as 500 percent.

“For more than four decades, Bron has prided ourselves as a solution provider, so we are extremely excited to promote our ISO 9001:2015 Certified converting capabilities,” Shand said. “Our fleet of custom-built machinery allows us to work efficiently with ever evolving materials to deliver finished quality parts to the marketplace, allowing our customers to increase their throughput and increase the overall quality of the parts they produce for their customers.”

More Than Tapes Although Bron Tapes boasts an extensive catalog of pressure sensitive tapes, they are also partnered with Norton Abrasives to bring businesses the widest variety of grinding, cutting, blending, finishing, and polishing solutions.

Work with the Application Specialists To speak with an Application Specialist, visit Bron Tapes online at www.BronTapes.com, send an email to service@brontapes.com, or call (888) 877-BRON (2766).

Bron Tapes supplies the trailer manufacturing industry with innovative solutions for surface protection, attachment and assembly, sound damping, MRO, paint masking, and more. www.NATM.com

May/June 2021

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How Can Digitization Improve Industrial Welding Process Efficiency

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How Can Digitization Improve Industrial Welding Process Efficiency

By Jason Dunahoo, Market Segment Manager, & Jason Bonnell, Product Manager, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC If a manufacturing operation wants to control costs, improve quality, or boost productivity—digitization may be the answer.

Think about these common questions and challenges and whether they apply to your operation: • • • •

Which areas of operation are the most productive?

Is there a struggle to control costs?

Are quality issues making their way into the field and to customers?

Are improvement efforts working consistently?

Digitization can answer all of these questions and help manufacturers stay ahead of the competition. Companies of all types and sizes can reap the benefits of a digitized operation.

In a digitalized manufacturing environment, things previously tracked by hand and often on paper can now be digitally tracked—automatically by the system in some cases. In addition, systems throughout the operation can be linked to provide a full picture, often in real time.

Welding is just one part of a digitized operation, but it has a significant impact on other areas of the manufacturing process and potential improvements. Having visibility into what’s happening in each weld cell is critical to improving quality and throughput in the entire operation.

If digitization is the right solution, these six tips can help optimize the process and the results.

Tip 1: Start with small steps Jumping right into the deep end of digitization isn’t the best first step, especially for companies that have not digitized processes before.

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Start with small steps to figure out what works best for the operation, then progress to larger and larger pieces over time.

Rather than immediately digitizing the entire factory, start with one production line or one area of the plant.

Start with operations that have a lower barrier to entry in terms of cost. Digitizing the welding operation first, followed by the cutting area and then the stamping operation, for example.

Tip 2: Establish the baseline What is not measured cannot be controlled. Establishing the baseline allows manufacturers to figure out where they are and what they want to measure—which in turn allows them to track and control those metrics over time.

When an operation wants to improve productivity, it must start by measuring all of the factors that make up productivity.

Miller® Insight Core™ arc data monitoring software can provide baseline data and visibility into the operation. Insight Core measures each welder’s arc-on time, allowing the establishment of a productivity baseline for the operation, plans for improvements, and measurement of progress toward goals. Dashboards allow identification of important trends and development of reports with data that can be analyzed, allowing you to take action.

Tip 3: Let the data drive the operation For example, the hypothesis may be that there is welding productivity problem. However, once the digitization solution is in place, the data may actually show that welders are regularly waiting on parts. The answer might lie in changing the line layout or increasing the speed of the cutting and bending operations.

Looking upstream and downstream of the weld cell can uncover other bottlenecks or issues. www.NATM.com

How Can Digitization Improve Industrial Welding Process Efficiency

Tracks A digitized weld cell is just one part of the overall operation—the problem or answer may not always be found in the weld cell.

Data gathered in the weld cell can help operations figure out what questions to ask about the entire operation.

With an advanced welding intelligence system like Insight Centerpoint™, operators track activity and tell the system when they are waiting for parts or there is a holdup on the line. Over a week or a month, the company can then see how many hours per day operators may be sitting idle and can build a justification for any improvements they make to the entire operation.

Perhaps it’s better to bring preassembled parts into the upstream process, add equipment such as another cutting table, or outsource a certain task somewhere along the line.

Making data-driven decisions helps ensure you’re tackling the right areas to fix problems and optimize results at all stages in the process.

Tip 4: Document product workflow Many manufacturers are dealing with labor shortages, so the expertise of operators on the production floor will vary. Some operators may have 30 years of experience and know the precise steps that go into building a part, while others are new to the company and still in training.

Tip 6: Attack the next thing Continuous improvement is just that, continuous.

Using data to guide improvements doesn’t happen just once. It’s a “rinse and repeat” process that is undertaken multiple times.

Appointing someone in the organization as the champion of these efforts helps ensure that the ball won’t be dropped and that the operation continues to run at peak performance.

The fifth and final step of the 5S management strategy is “sustain,” as in sustained discipline of improvement efforts. The responsibility for this step should be shared between management and the workforce.

Leverage welding intelligence solutions Digitizing the welding operation with welding intelligence solutions and connecting it to the overall enterprise improves product quality, provides better traceability of problems, and offers an understanding of true costs across the entire operation.

A manufacturing operation has many moving parts. Integrating the processes with a data-centered approach helps companies uncover improvements so they can reach their goals.

For more information, visit MillerWelds.com.

Documenting every step in the workflow helps ensure that proper procedures are always followed to produce consistent quality, even as the operators change.

Insight Centerpoint can guide operators through the weld sequence in real time. This reduces training time and helps ensure consistent, high-quality parts.

Documentation of the workflow is a step that likely won’t happen frequently. You document the workflow once and—unless the process changes—it doesn’t need to be done again.

Tip 5: Confirm the results Gathering data and using it to make changes is good. Now these steps must be followed up with confirmation of the results. Trying new solutions in an effort to yield improvements is important, but making sure those solutions actually work is what closes the loop on the process.

With Insight Centerpoint, companies can use the same tool throughout the entire digitization process in the welding operation, from measuring the baseline to confirming results. www.NATM.com

Welding is just one part of a digitized operation, but it has a significant impact on other areas of the manufacturing process and potential improvements. Having visibility into what’s happening in each weld cell is critical to improving quality and throughput in the entire operation.

May/June 2021

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NATM Affinity Programs

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NATM Affinity Programs

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director NATM provides value to members through benefits like the Compliance Verification Program (CVP) and the annual Convention & Trade Show, among other offerings. Another way NATM provides value to members is through affinity programs which have the potential to save members money as well as provide top tier benefits to their employees.

NATM members and dealer affiliates are eligible to participate in NATM’s various affinity programs.

NATM 401(k) with MMA: NATM now offers corporate retirement plans to all members and dealer affiliates. Managed by Marsh & McLennan Agency and powered by Vestwell. This modernized 401(k) offering makes it easier for companies to onboard and administer cost-effective plans.

This solution removes friction points typically experienced through traditional providers by offering flexible investment strategies, streamlined administration, automated onboarding, and fiduciary oversight, all at competitive pricing. By acting as a single point of contact for you and your employees, MMA’s modernized retirement offering keeps everyone’s best interests in mind.

Want to learn more? Contact Marsh & McLennan’s Duane Moppin at Duane.Moppin@marshmma.com or (913) 645-9760.

NAM Association Health Plan (AHP) NATM is now extending affordable health care to trailer manufacturing companies with 2-99 employees in approved states. In states where the Association health plan is not available, the NATM will connect manufacturers with available small-group options in their states. As an Affiliate Partner of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), NATM now offers our

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trailer manufacturing members access to NAM Health Care, for more information, visit www.NATM.NAMHealthCare.com.

NATM member companies regularly report challenges with recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce. As the trailer industry continues to boast record sales, maintaining a skilled workforce is key to capitalizing on the market and maintain an efficient team capable of quality results. One way to support a strong recruiting and retention program is to offer a competitive benefits program which includes health insurance coverage. ​ ATM recognizes the financial commitment made by members to N provide their employees with a viable employee benefits program and is consistently evaluating worthwhile options for member consideration. In late fall of 2019, NATM became an Affiliate member of NAM’s Association Health Plan to provide NATM members with 2-99 employees access to an Association Health Plan option. NATM’s Association Health Plan provided through NAM is underwritten by United Healthcare. To participate, members must have an NAISC code of 31, 32, or 33 and be an active dues paying member of NATM. The NATM Association Health Plan underwritten by United Healthcare offers multiple medical plan offerings including Qualified High Deductible Health Plans (QHDHP’s) and PPO plans with flexibility to implement multiple plans as you find the plan options most beneficial to your employees. Medical plan offerings include the UHC Choice Plus network. Benefits include hospitalization, primary care, 100 percent preventive care, maternity, pharmacy, and no annual or lifetime dollar limits.

United Healthcare will determine your group size based on the average total number of employees in the prior year. To be eligible, an employer must contribute at least 50 percent of the employee only premium and 50 percent of eligible employees must enroll in the plan (less valid waivers). www.NATM.com

NATM Affinity Programs

Tracks NAM Health Care provides medical, dental, vision and life plan options built specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturers (those with 2-99 eligible employees), with potential for lower premiums and reduced administrative costs saving up to 30 percent off existing health insurance expenses*.

To learn more about NATM’s Association Health Plan option and to submit your information for a proposal of coverage, contact Lisa Clark, Marsh & McLennan Agency at Lisa.Clark@marshmma.com.

Partnership Shipping Program The NATM Shipping Program, managed by PartnerShip, is a comprehensive inbound and outbound shipping program that combines simplicity, savings, and value for all members and dealer affiliates. As the affiliate shipping provider for NATM, PartnerShip works with nationally known carriers to provide unparalleled customer service and significant savings on every shipment. Members who enroll in the NATM Shipping Program receive: Savings up to 29 percent* on select FedEx small package services Savings of at least 70 percent on standard and guaranteed LTL freight shipments with UPS Freight, YRC Freight, and other reputable carriers Competitive pricing on truckload, tradeshow, and expedited shipments using quality national and specialized carriers Specialized services including inbound management, freight bill auditing, invoice consolidation, and more.

The NATM Shipping Program provides solutions to help members manage their shipping easily and more efficiently. Visit www.PartnerShip.com/44NATM for complete program information and to enroll in the free NATM Shipping Program. *Includes a bonus 5 percent online processing discount.

Full details available at www.PartnerShip.com/44NATM/ FedExdiscounts

www.NATM.com

MMA Product Liability Insurance Program MMA’s insurance program is designed to provide Product Liability coverage for NATM’s trailer manufacturing members.

According to John Kerr of MMA, “NATM members have seen their insurance premiums decrease on average by more than 30 percent.” Why, “because your membership in the NATM means something. We have spent the better part of the last ten years educating the insurance industry on how membership in the NATM leads to better built trailers that result in fewer insurance claims. You deserve a premium break for your commitment to building a safer trailer and our insurance program is built around delivering that break to you.”

For more information contact John Kerr at (913) 529-3264 or by email at John.Kerr@marshmma.com.

US Agent of Record for International Members: International trailer manufacturers, do you need a US Agent of Record to conduct business inside the United States?

Under Subpart D of 49 CFR Part 551 foreign manufacturers, assemblers and importers of motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment (which includes trailers) must designate an agent in U.S. on whom service of administrative or judicial notices or processes may be made before they are able to offer their products for importation into the United States. Until such an agent has been appointed, the company may not import motor vehicles or motor vehicle equipment into the United States. (49 CFR § 551.45 and § 551.46).

Some NATM member companies have subsidiaries or other affiliates within the United States who meet this requirement and serve as the appointed agent. Other NATM members have sought out lawyers or other third parties to fill this role. NATM offers this service to members as a benefit of membership at the rate of $500 annually. Please contact Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com if you’re interested in having NATM serve as your US Agent of Record.

May/June 2021

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Leverage NATM Membership to Manage Health Care Costs

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Leverage NATM Membership to Manage Health Care Costs

By Lisa A. Clark, Senior Benefits Consultant, Marsh & McLennan Agency

It’s no secret that health care costs are rising. A number of factors contribute to these increasing costs—some of the biggest contributors include: Increasing Pharmaceutical Costs and Use Health care costs are growing in part due to the increased use of prescription drugs, and an increase in the number of newer, more expensive drugs prescribed. Though prescription drug manufacturers have revolutionized modern medicine, these advances come at a cost.

As pharmaceutical companies develop new drugs to treat serious medical conditions, the market for those drugs expands accordingly. The trend in the pharmaceutical industry is to maximize profits by developing drugs to treat conditions for which there were previously no drug treatments. These new

“lifestyle” drugs treat or control conditions like nail fungus, impotence, obesity, or hair loss. Manufacturers then use direct-toconsumer advertisements that encourage customers to ask their doctors for prescriptions for these medications.

The increased use of lifestyle medications and direct-to-consumer advertising have raised serious questions about where America’s health care dollars are being spent and if consumers are getting the best value for their money.

New, Expensive Medical Technology New medical devices, diagnostic tests and medical imaging tools are enabling doctors to deliver care that would have been impossible in years past. Medical technology, just like pharmaceuticals, has revolutionized medicine and improved the lives of many people—but those advances have also come with hefty price tags. As the number of older Americans increases,

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Leverage NATM Membership to Manage Health Care Costs

Tracks these new devices and treatments are being used even more and with escalating price tags.

Chronic Care The health care system is primarily geared toward providing acute care and curing diseases. However, many people need care for chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Chronic conditions are the major cause of illness, disability, and death in the United States, and they account for a significant portion of health care spending.

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), about 80 percent of older adults have one chronic condition, accounting for more than two-thirds of the nation’s total health care costs.

The NCOA also cites that 95 cents of every dollar of Medicare and 83 cents for every dollar of Medicaid go toward treating chronic disease.

medical technology and expanded pharmaceutical dependency will only grow and continue to drive your health care higher.

So, what is a business owner to do? How can consumers of health insurance better manage the costs of the benefit they are providing?

Association Health Plans (AHPs) will allow businesses to join together through an Association such as NATM to form a larger, more influential buying pool for the purchase of health insurance.

This leverage should allow the AHP to negotiate more aggressive insurance pricing as well as the cost of administering those plans.

Trailer manufacturing companies with 2-99 employees are eligible to participate in NATM’s AHP. Members from more than 20 states have already provided information for NATM’s Association Health Plan (AHP) evaluation.

For more information about Marsh & McLennan Agency, visit www.MarshMMA.com.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that chronic diseases are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States.

Provider Consolidation Before managed care revolutionized the American health care system, individual medical providers determined the fees for their services. However, with the domination of managed care plans, most providers have been forced to negotiate their prices lower or risk losing patient volume from managed care plans willing to exclude non-compliant providers from their networks.

In order to maintain or regain some negotiating power, providers in many communities have consolidated their medical practices, effectively monopolizing procedures within specific service areas. These large provider groups have a much greater ability to negotiate with managed care plans that wish to provide convenient care options for their members.

Health care costs and, consequently, employee health benefits costs have been increasing at a very high rate for nearly a decade. Unfortunately, cost increases are still outpacing the rate of inflation, making health care a growing cost burden for consumers.

As costs increase, frustration grows for health insurance buyers and the consumers of health care in our nation. Advances in

www.NATM.com

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National Association of Manufacturers Launches COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign

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National Association of Manufacturers Launches COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign

By National Association of Manufacturers

Worldwide cases of COVID-19 have reached a sobering new milestone of 100 million people, and currently only 30 to 40 percent of the American population say they will not get a COVID-19 vaccine. In response, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and The Manufacturing Institute—the workforce development and education partner of the NAM—are launching a new project taking direct aim at vaccine hesitancy to stop the virus in its tracks by convincing more Americans to prepare to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This project follows the NAM’s nearly year-long campaign imploring Americans to follow CD.C. guidelines, such as wearing a mask and social distancing.

The project, called “This Is Our Shot,” (www.NAM.org/ThisIsOurShot) seeks to boost COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among manufacturing team members, their families, and their communities through a multifaceted national campaign. With another grave milestone reached and the virus mutating, the country’s response and recovery is depending on manufacturing workers more than ever. The industry’s support of the vaccination will help open economies up, put children back in schools, and return the country to some semblance of normal.

The project includes six main components: (1) science-based messaging research; (2) emergency industry convening and education, such as webinars; (3) an online vaccine information hub; (4) a PSA campaign; (5) a Yellow and Red Ribbon initiative (for vaccinated individuals to show their peers they’re a part of the fight); and (6) a rapid response media and digital campaign.

Resources available at www.NAM.org/ThisIsOurShot will be updated regularly, providing the latest information and tools for vaccine outreach and access.

Vaccine distribution and acceptance is key to putting an end to the pandemic and returning to normal. “One hundred million people have now been impacted by this horrible disease. Asking all Americans to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated against COVID-19 is a pivotal step toward stopping this upward trend, putting millions of people back to work and eradicating this virus.

That’s why the National Association of Manufacturers and The Manufacturing Institute launched ‘This is Our Shot,’ to get more

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people armed against COVID-19 and to protect the people we care about,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons.

“This project builds on our months of work advocating the use of face masks and other smart health measures to protect all Americans as we continue to share our insights with the Biden administration and state officials to help defeat COVID-19. Now is our opportunity as a country to end this pandemic. Our future depends on all of us rolling up our sleeves and getting armed against COVID-19.” Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your families, and communities as well as do your part to return the economy to its pre-pandemic state.

To view the NAM PSA and other tweets visit www.Twitter.com/ShopFloorNAM. To get involved with “This Is Our Shot,” visit www.NAM.org/thisisourshot.

To view the CD.C. Essential Workers COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit visit www.CD.C..gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/toolkits/ essential-workers.html. www.NATM.com

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OSHA Guidance on COVID-19 Prevention

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OSHA Guidance on COVID-19 Prevention

By Truck & Trailer Makers

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently issued new guidance on mitigating and preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. This guidance—which pertains to organizations outside of the health care sector—is intended to inform both employees and employers of the risks of occupational COVID-19 exposure, as well as outline top COVID-19 control measures for the workplace.

Specifically, this guidance suggests that employers implement COVID-19 prevention programs. According to OSHA, the most effective programs engage workers and their union or representatives in the program’s development. These programs should include the following key elements: •

A designated coordinator who is in charge of handling workplace COVID-19 concerns

•

A hazard assessment that identifies how and where employees might be exposed to COVID-19 at work

•

Various measures aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace (e.g., requiring face coverings, improving ventilation, enforcing physical distancing and performing routine cleanings)

•

Additional protections for employees with a higher risk of severe illness (e.g., older staff or workers with underlying medical conditions)

•

Education and training for staff on policies and procedures related to COVID-19 prevention

•

A process for employees to anonymously report issues regarding occupational COVID-19 hazards

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•

Isolation and quarantine protocols for potentially exposed employees

•

COVID-19 testing and screening arrangements

•

Recording and reporting requirements for workplace COVID-19 cases and deaths

•

A workplace COVID-19 vaccination plan

Go to www.OSHA.gov/coronavirus/safework to review OSHA’s latest guidance.

National Safety Stand-down Scheduled for 2021 This year’s National Safety Stand-down (www.OSHA.gov/ StopFallsStandDown) to prevent falls in the construction industry is May 3-7. This event encourages employers to talk to their staff about workplace fall hazards and the importance of utilizing fall protection. After all, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls from elevation consistently reign as the leading cause of death within the construction sector.

Nevertheless, many fall-related incidents can be prevented with adequate safety precautions in place. Employers can play their part in protecting staff from falls at the construction site by planning ahead to get the job done safely, providing the necessary equipment and adequately training employees on the proper use of this equipment.

For more fall prevention resources, contact Trailer Makers today.

For more details about the Trailer Makers Toolkit resource, contact Andrew Dearing, CIC, MWCA, Trailer Industry Risk Management Advisor/Insurance Broker, at Truck and Trailer Makers at ADearing@trailermakersins.com or call (478) 449-5928.

www.NATM.com

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TM NA

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Your People are Your Most Powerful Resource. (Wait, My People?)

Co

Your People are Your Most Powerful Resource. (Wait, My People?)

By Bob Clements & Sara Hey, Bob Clements International

An excerpt from “You’re the Problem (and the Solution)” by Bob Clements and Sara Hey When I talk to owners and managers about the power of their team, regardless of its size, many times their eyes glaze over and they say, “Sara, that’s nice, but you don’t know my people.”

You’re right. I don’t, but our team knows thousands of other people just like yours. And when the owners or managers get out of their way and let them do their job, they can become unstoppable. Ouch, did that hurt?

I’ll say it again for the people in the back. The most powerful resources you have in your dealership are the people you pay to be at your dealership every single day. That’s right, your employees. No one has a more in-depth look or better insight into your dealership than the people who show up every single day.

The struggle is that often, as an owner, you don’t want to let go of control. There, I said it. Most dealership owners and managers we work with (over five thousand of you) are control freaks. You have hired highly capable people to take things off your plate, but you never actually let them help you in the way you need.

When you drive on ice, your natural tendency is to tense up and grip the wheel with strength that would rival the Hulk. In reality, to safely drive on ice you need to relax, slow down, and have a comfortable grip on the wheel. (I’m sure when you picked up this book, you didn’t know you were going to get lessons on how to drive on ice, but you’re welcome.)

As an owner or manager, when things start moving into panic mode and getting out of control, you typically match the level of panic and hold the pieces of the business closer to you. Your grip gets tighter, much like inexperienced drivers on ice. You don’t let others help with the problem because you are convinced that you are the only one capable of dealing with it.

For more information, visit www.BobClements.com.

Our focus here is on one thing—how to fully utilize your people.

Don’t dismiss this idea too quickly. If you want to change the direction of your business, take an objective look at who on your team is willing and able to move your dealership forward.

Have you ever driven on an icy road before? Specifically, a road covered in black ice where everyone travels half the speed limit just to get to the grocery store and stock up on toilet paper that they don’t actually need? Our team is based out of Kansas City, Missouri, right in the middle of the United States. In what seems like a day, we can experience ninety-degree heat, followed by a tornado, and then, before we know it, we are in the midst of a snowstorm.

Regardless of the weather event, what typically shuts down our city is ice. When you drive on ice, you utilize a different driving technique than what is needed for any other time on the road.

When you are learning to drive in Missouri, it’s not uncommon for a driving instructor to take you to a big open parking lot the morning after an ice storm occurs and spend a significant amount of time teaching you to drive on the dangerous road.

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For Challenging appliCations

LICATIONS ENGING APP FOR CHALL

LPC Gas Springs are available in both Black Nitride and Stainless Steel all at factory pricing and a large inventory is in stock for immediate shipment.

LK, TAPES, CAU LS, FOAM COATINGS TRIMS, SEA INDUSTRIAL SEALANTS,

INNOVATIVE

PVC Foam and High Bond Tapes: As the exclusive distributor of Gaska Tape products we offer high density foam tapes, Hi-Bond tapes, vinyl glazing tape, and polyethylene foam tapes at competitive prices.

Since 1969 LaVanture Products Company has been providing customers with the highest quality products to meet the challenging applications of today’s competitive markets. LaVanture offers products to meet the needs of custom applications in the industry.

PRODUCTS

All of these have passed our rigid quality standards. If we sell it... we stand behind it!!!

Call for our new catalogs.

New LaVanture Line of Sealants: LaVanture Products is proud to announce our new sealant line including great quality products including, MS Polymers, Silicones and many others. We have partnered with a quality manufacturer to provide a great product at a great price.

Conspicuity Tapes: We are a national distributor for 3M D.O.T. Diamond Grade Conspicuity Tape.

LaVanture Products | Post Office Box 2088 Elkhart, IN 46515-2088 | E-mail: sales@lavanture.com Phone: 800-348-7625 | Fax: 800-348-7629 www.lavanture.com | www.conspicuity.com

Applications: • Tool Boxes • Door and Window Seals • Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers • Truck Bodies • Made Cargo Trailers in the USA • Utility Boxes • Fiberglass Doors • Work Truck Doors • Marine • Recreational Vehicles • Roof Sealant We also stock complete lines of high quality EPDM Seals, Trim Seals, Edge Trims, Butyl Tapes, Caulks and Sealants.

Save the Date for the 2022 Convention & Trade Show

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Save the Date for the 2022 Convention & Trade Show

By NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan NATM is looking forward to hosting its 2022 Convention & Trade Show for the first time at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Fla. Feb. 1-3, 2022. Florida continues to be a popular location for NATM’s Convention & Trade Show as it boasts sunny weather, great sites for dinners with customers, golf outings, shopping, and family-friendly vacation activities.

The Tampa Convention Center is located along the Riverwalk in the heart of downtown and will serve as the site of educational workshops, networking events, and the trade show. Attendees of the show can access the NATM special room block rates at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Convention Center and the Marriott Tampa Waterside. More information will be provided via email. To sign up for the Convention & Trade Show emails, visit www.NATM.com/convention.

Booth Selection Trade show space will open up to 2020 Sponsors starting June 1. Following sponsors, those companies that chose to roll their 2021 booth funds over to 2022 will then select their spaces. The opportunity to select space for the general membership will open Aug. 4, and non-members will be allowed to choose booth space beginning Aug. 18.

For more information about the booth selection process, turn to page 76.

Sponsorships

are sponsorship opportunities available from $250 to $50,000 to fit any budget. Being a sponsor allows you to select your booth before previous exhibitors and the general membership, as well as provides a wide range of exposure, both electronically on NATM’s website and mobile app and in print on the convention program map and branded events. This creates name recognition which helps drive customers to your booth. Re-enter in-person events with a bang, and sponsor today! Watch your email for sponsorship information coming in May. New Attendee Promotion Are you a new member trailer manufacturer? Are you a trailer manufacturer whose company has not attended in the last five years? Are you a dealer affiliate? You may qualify for NATM’s New Attendee Promotion!

The New Attendee Promotion includes two complimentary full registrations and up to two complimentary hotel room nights at the host hotel for the convention. Those interested in participating should contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan soon— complimentary hotel rooms are on a first come, first served basis and will go fast.

Stay tuned for the show additions and for more information about NATM’s 2022 Convention & Trade Show. Questions about the show sponsorship opportunities or exhibit space? Contact Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433.

As always, the NATM Convention & Trade Show would not be possible without the support of its generous sponsors. There

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Booth Selection Process for the 2022 NATM Trade Show

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Booth Selection Process for the 2022 NATM Trade Show

By NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan As always, sign up at any time after your group’s window begins. If you miss the window for your group you can still purchase a booth, but the privilege of choosing your booth space before it opens up to new groups is lost. Be sure to mark your calendar to sign up as soon as you receive your email from NATM! 2022 Booth Selection Process The opportunity to select exhibitor space at the 2022 trade show has been made available to suppliers and service providers in the following phases: Phase 1: 2020 sponsors will choose their booths first in the order of their sponsorship levels during the following dates:

• Booth Selection will open exclusively to select 2020 sponsors June on 1 lasting through June 29. Those companies that chose to • roll their booth over from the cancelled 2021 show will be able to • select a new booth on July 6. The general membership will be • allowed to choose booth space beginning Aug. 4, and non• members can select booths starting Aug. 18.

Exhibitors that chose to roll their 2021 booth over to 2022 will keep their discounted price and automatically have their funds applied directly to their 2022 booth. Unless rolling over 2021 booths to 2022, the cost is $1,457 per 10 ft. x 10 ft. booth. Booth space for non-member companies is $2,914.

On the day your booth-selection window opens, you will receive an email from NATM notifying you that the booth sales application is now available online for your company.

This email includes a unique booking code that, when entered, pre-populates the online booth sales application.

Within the application, exhibitors can view the 2022 show floorplan and select their desired booth(s) in real time.

$30,000 and higher—June 1-3 $10,000–$29,999—June 4-8 $7,500–$9,999—June 9-11 $5,500–$7,499—June 14-16 $2,500–$5,499—June 17-21

•

$1,000–$2,499—June 22-24

•

$500–$999—June 25-29

•

Phase 2: Companies that chose to roll their 2021 booth funds over to 2022 will select their booths beginning July 6, 2021.

•

Phase 3: The general membership will be allowed to choose booth space beginning Aug. 4, 2021.

•

Phase 4: Non-members will be allowed to select booths beginning Aug. 18, 2021.

If you have any questions regarding how to book your exhibit space or if you would like to be a sponsor at the 2022 Convention & Trade Show, contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433.

During the completion of the online application, exhibitors pay for their booth(s) online via credit card. Once NATM show management approves the application, an email containing login credentials to the exhibitor dashboard is sent. The dashboard allows exhibitors to update their company profile and contact information and view other important information relevant to the upcoming show.

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Dealers Invited to the 2022 Convention & Trade Show

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Dealers Invited to 2022 Convention & Trade Show

NATM DEALER COMPENDIUM

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

NATM is inviting trailer dealers to the 2022 NATM Convention & Trade Show in Tampa, Fla. Feb. 1-3, 2022!

NATM has been committed to trailer safety for more than 30 years. While NATM has long worked with trailer manufacturers, Free to all NATM industry suppliers, and service providers, trailer safety can only be improved through dealer interaction and consumer education.

Expanding the Association’s base to include Dealer Affiliates and now allowing dealers to attend the Annual Convention & Trade Show is the logical next step to advancing the mission of NATM.

The NATM Convention & Trade Show is the annual trade show for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. With more than 1,000 trailer manufacturer and supplier attendees per year and growing, this “must attend” event provides education, networking, and communication for those in the industry. The 2020 sold out trade show boasted over 200 exhibiting companies, with 37 new exhibitors, which gave attendees a variety of products and services to view. The show also included attendees from over 100 trailer manufacturers companies from across North FEATU America.

Dealer attendees will have the opportunity to participate State Towing Laws in all workshops and technical forums. The Association’s State Brake Laws purpose is to open up lines of communication, increase trailer State Safety Chain Laws safety awareness, and provide dealers with the education and State License Plate Laws information they have long requested from NATM. NATM Commercial Driver’s Licenses has worked diligently with committees, trailer manufacturers, State Registration Laws industry suppliers, and dealers to create a path of inclusion for dealers.

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NATM will be offering a “New Dealer Promotion” to help offset costs for dealers attending the show. NATM Dealer Affiliates are eligible for two complimentary registrations and two free hotel room nights while available! NATM will provide more Dealer informationAffiliates to all Dealer Affiliates via email in September.

Online registration will open this fall. NATM looks forward to seeing you in Tampa! For more information about the Convention & Trade Show or the NATM Dealer Affiliate program, contact NATM Assistant Director Meghan Ryan at Meghan.Ryan@natm.com or (785) 272-4433.

RING: Towing Tandem Trailers Information Tire Recordkeeping Federal Excise Tax EWR & Safety Recalls Safe Trailering Resources Selling NATM Compliance

www.NATM.com

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As of 4/16/2021 – schedule subject to change.

Monday, January 31 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Convention Tee Off - Top Golf Tuesday, February 1 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Registration 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Workshop Session 1 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Technical Forum Session 1 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Membership Meeting* 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Awards Luncheon* Noon – 6:00p.m.

Exhibitor Move-In 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Workshop Session 2 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Technical Forum Session 2 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Newcomer Orientation 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Newcomer Reception 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

President’s Reception*

Dealers Restricted: Dealers are unable to attend the NATM * Membership Meeting, Awards Luncheon, President’s Reception,

and the Wednesday hours of the Trade Show. Dealers are welcome to walk the show floor on Thursday from 9:00 am-Noon. * Denotes Dealer Only Event.

Wednesday, February 2 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Registration 7:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m.

Exhibitor move-in 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Technical Forum Session 3 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Workshop Session 3 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Coffee Break 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Trade Show* 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Dealer Workshop & Luncheon** 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Lunch with the Exhibitors* 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Trade Show Reception* 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Dealer Reception** Thursday, February 3 9:00 a.m. – Noon Registration 9:00 a.m. – Noon Trade Show 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Coffee with the Exhibitors Noon – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibitor Move Out

Celebrating Milestone Member Anniversaries

Celebrating Milestone Member Anniversaries

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By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director Congratulations to the following NATM Member Companies for their loyalty and support over the years. NATM would like to celebrate these anniversary milestones for 2021.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Membership

Celebrating 20 Years of Membership

Peoria Cookers

Ainley Kennels & Fabrication, Inc.

Quality Metals, Inc.

A&N Trailer Parts, Inc.

Axis Corporation

Quality Trailer Enterprises

A.L. Hansen Mfg. Co.

Bloomer Trailer Mfg., Inc.

R & R Trailers, Inc.

American Cargo Group - Indiana Buyers Products Company

Certified Capital, Inc.

Simpson Strong-Tie

Cotner Trailers, Inc.

Spaulding Mfg., Inc.

Excel, Inc.

Statistical Surveys, Inc.

Fiber-Tech Industries, Inc.

TecNiq

JLG Industries, Inc.

The Charles Machine Works, Inc.

Kenny & Gyl Company

Trafcon

Kerr Trailers

Trailerpartssuperstore.com

Lippert Components, Inc.

Universal Power Group (UPG, Inc.)

Midsota Mfg., Inc. by Novae Corp

White River Marine Group, LLC

American Eagle Accessories Group Amerimax Fabricated Products Axalta Coating Systems Best Fender Products Big Tex Trailer Mfg C & B Quality Trailer Works, Inc. CAR MATE Trailers, Inc. Cargo Craft, Inc. Dalton’s Enterprise, Inc., Manufacturer of Adam Trailers Diamond C Trailer Mfg., Inc. Felling Trailers Homesteader, Inc. Jones Trailer Co. Liberty, Inc. Magnum Custom Trailer Mfg. Co., Inc. MGS Incorporated MGS Incorporated-Ft. Collins StateWide Windows Timbren Industries, Inc. Trailerman by Novae Trails West Mfg. of Idaho Ultimate RB United Trailers, Inc. Vin-eze A Division of P.M.C.S., Inc. Wells Fargo Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) www.NATM.com

Powerbrace Corporation Rumber Materials, Inc. Schwartz Trailer Sales T & E Enterprises of Herscher, Inc. Tuson RV Brakes Wylie & Son, Inc. Celebrating 15 Years of Membership ALCOM LLC Alliance Injection Molding American Technology Components Car-TexTrailer Co., Inc. Crystal Welding, Inc. Dexstar Wheel Eby, M.H. Eby, Inc. – Iowa & Ohio Elite Trailers, Inc. Equipment World GR Trailers, LLC Harmar, Inc. JKD Products, Inc. May/June 2021

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JW Williams, Inc Black Rhino Manufacturing, MGS TRAILER STORE/ INC MAXEY TRAILER SALES CAR SHOP TRAILER SALES, LLC Nationcraft Trailers Diamondback Mfg Polar King Douglas Trailers, Inc. Terran Axle HAUL-ABOUT LLC Thuro-Bilt Inc Hesston Machine & Welding, Inc

Member News

Tracks Boatmate Trailers Makes Presidential Announcement Boatmate Trailers is pleased to announce they have named Owen Shelton as President and Daniel Luby as Vice President.

Owen has been with Boatmate since 2000 and has been involved in every aspect of Boatmate as it has grown to become the industry leader in marine trailers. Between Owen’s involvement in Boatmate’s success and his key roles in the NATM and NMMA, we believe there is no one better to fill this position than Owen.

Owen moves from his current role as Vice President and succeeds Ron Miller, who will be moving to the role of CEO to focus on future strategic planning while maintaining company oversight.

Owen Shelton, President, Boatmate Trailers

Daniel has been with Boatmate since 2012 and has filled several roles including Customer Service Manager, Quality Manager, Product and Process Engineer, and Production and Operations Manager.

His passion and profound knowledge of all aspects of Boatmate make him the perfect candidate to fill the role of Vice President.

Ron Miller is excited about the future and confident Owen and Daniel will continue to drive Boatmate Trailers as the market leader in marine trailer technology.

Buyers Products Recruits Brian Sleicher to Lead New Class 8 Initiative

Brian Sleicher, Class 8 Product Manager, Buyers Products

Buyers Products, a leading manufacturer of work truck equipment, appoints Brian Sleicher to the role of Class 8 Product Manager. Class 8 equipment is a new focus for Buyers, and Sleicher will lead the company into the market, leveraging his more than 20 years of industry expertise.

The first new Class 8 products are WideOpen™ Step Boxes and a line of frame steps. WideOpen Step Boxes feature extra-wide opening lids that make it easy to store and access large chains and other potentially cumbersome pieces of equipment. The boxes and the steps feature sturdy aluminum construction.

“Class 8 equipment is a natural fit for Buyers,” says Sleicher. “These trucks spend thousands of hours on the road, so everything on them needs to be built for the long haul. Buyers is known for sturdy, high quality equipment. It’s a perfect marriage, and I’m thrilled to tackle this new frontier.”

Visit BuyersProducts.com for more information.

Buyers is building the new line of equipment in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Northeast Ohio.

This allows the company to guarantee the rigorous quality standards, rapid availability and manufacturer-direct value that its customers expect. Sleicher is utilizing his decades of Class 8 experience to guide every step of development, manufacturing, and distribution.

About Buyers Products Established in 1946, Buyers Products Company has become a leader in manufacturing all types of equipment for the work truck industry. Buyers Products specializes in durable truck boxes, heavy duty towing equipment, hydraulics, controls and all-season trailer accessories. The Buyers’ line of snow and ice equipment includes: SnowDogg® snow plows, SaltDogg® spreaders and ScoopDogg snow pushers. For more information, visit www.BuyersProducts.com

Daniel Luby, Vice President, Boatmate Trailers www.NATM.com

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Member News

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M.H. EBY Announces New Trailer & Truck Body Dealer in Connecticut M.H. Eby is pleased to announce that Elm City Trailer LLC of Woodbridge, Conn. is now an authorized dealer of EBY equipment trailers and truck bodies.

Elm City Trailer has been in business since 2013 serving Connecticut and the surrounding New England area. They offer a full-service shop and parts department and will be adding EBY equipment trailers and truck bodies to their existing line of quality brands.

Elm City Trailer was founded in 2013

by Robert Fantarella but his history and experience with trailers goes back well beyond that. From sales to service to customization, Elm City Trailer prides themselves on their knowledge, experience, and ability to provide trailer solutions for their customers. The company’s mission is “to provide the very best selection of trailers for both work and play,” said Fantarella. “We have always admired EBY products so when our territory became available, we didn’t hesitate. We love the quality of the trailers and truck bodies.”

“We are pleased to welcome Elm City Trailer as our new dealer partner bringing EBY products to Connecticut. Elm City

Trailer has a great reputation in the New England area for meeting customer’s trailering needs,” said Shane Sweigart, Northeast Territory Sales Rep for M. H. EBY, Inc. “Their product knowledge, expertise, and commitment to their customers makes them an ideal partner for EBY.” To learn more about Elm City Trailer LLC visit their website at www.ElmCityTrailer. com or call (203) 535-0075.

Find out more about M.H. EBY’s products at www.MHEBY.com or call (800) 292-4752.

About M.H. EBY Based in Blue Ball, Penn., M.H. EBY designs and builds high quality aluminum trailers and truck bodies for agricultural, industrial, and commercial markets. In the trailer market, EBY builds livestock trailers, grain trailers, equipment trailers and horse trailers. For the truck body market, EBY builds flatbeds, service bodies, van bodies and dump bodies.

Products are sold nationwide by dealer and distributor partners with strong roots in their local communities. Started in 1938, the company is led by Travis Eby, President, and Nick Eby, VP of Engineering. Menno H. Eby serves as chairman.

EBY Logo

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Felling Trailers, Inc. Announces Beneficiary of 2021 Trailer for a Cause Felling Trailers will be hosting its ninth annual Trailer for a Cause online auction of an FT-3 Utility trailer to benefit a nonprofit organization. Felling Trailers’ goal is to bring awareness to various nonprofits that are making a difference by donating 100 percent of the winning bid from the auction to a different nonprofit each year. The previous Trailer for a Cause auctions has raised over $25,000 for nonprofit organizations such as Bright Pink—Breast Cancer, SOMN—Special Olympics Minnesota, Children’s Cancer Research Fund, and Lymphoma Research Foundation, to name a few.

Felling Trailers, Inc. has selected the Minnesota Firefighters Foundation (MNFFF) as the 2021 Trailer for a Cause auction beneficiary. “We respect and appreciate firefighters’ time, skills, and service as they risk their lives to protect our communities,” said Brenda Jennissen, President/CEO of Felling Trailers.

“Having almost a dozen volunteer firefighters on our team makes it even more personal, and we’re honored to give back to this statewide organization that works to educate and bring awareness to all of our Minnesota firefighters.”

A Fall 2021 auction is being planned for Trailer for a Cause. Leading up to the auction, Felling Trailers will be working with MNFFF to generate awareness about firefighters and their families that have been affected by cancer and other health issues due to their involvement in the fire service. With over 7,000 toxic carcinogens being released in today’s fires, not only are on-scene deaths a risk, but the carcinogens being ingested are causing cancer in a high number of firefighters as well. Each year

www.NATM.com

Member News

Tracks operated Full Line Trailer Manufacturer located in Central Minnesota. Started in 1974, Felling Trailers, Inc. has grown from a small shop to a factory and office complex that today covers over 325,000 square feet. Felling’s pride and differentiation is its customized trailer division. Its engineers utilize the latest Industry-leading design techniques, and its experienced metal craftspeople use cutting-edge technology to turn its customers’ conceptual trailer needs into a tangible product. Felling has been providing innovative trailer solutions to the transportation industry for over 45 years. Felling Trailers’ current capabilities allow them to provide a high-quality product that is distributed across North America and internationally. Felling Trailers, Inc. is an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certified company, WBENC-Certified WBE company, and an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Felling Trailers supports the Minnesota Firefighters Foundation.

over 70 firefighters die in the line of duty, while cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters. Since 9/11 over 7,000 firefighters have been diagnosed with some form of cancer or a disabling health diagnosis.

About the Minnesota Firefighters Foundation After receiving training on the Health Risk to Firefighters in 2016, a small group of individuals felt compelled to do more for their brothers and sisters in the fire service.

The founding five members piled into a small room and knew at that time there needed to be more focus on the hidden health and cancer risk firefighters faced.

In early 2017 The Minnesota Firefighters Foundation was formed, and its mission is simple. Supporting firefighters and www.NATM.com

their families that have been affected by cancer and other health issues due to their involvement in the fire service. MNFFF’s main campaign is HOODS 4 HEROES which educates firefighters on how to protect themselves, along with giving them

Felling Trailers Provides Solar Project Solution for Rental Company’s Contractor Recently, a national heavy equipment rental company and longtime customer of Felling Trailers was faced with a dilemma.

One of their national accounts, a

the tools and equipment to help mitigate the risk of cancer and other hidden health risks. The HOODS 4 HEROES campaign mission is to purchase particulate hoods for fire departments across Minnesota that cannot afford them.

For additional information on MNFFs research, education and services, visit www.MNFFF.org.

About Felling Trailers, Inc. Felling Trailers is a family-owned and

Visit the Minnesota Firefighters Foundation at www.MNFFF.org.

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Member News

Tracks renewable energy contractor, was working on a solar project that spanned several locations in their coverage area. They needed several heavy-duty triple reel trailers capable of hauling three 97” dia. x 77” x 10,000 lbs. wide reels for medium voltage (MV) underground cable.

Lead-time was of the utmost importance.

With the solar projects in progress, the trailers were needed inside of a 4-week time frame. Standard build time for a reel trailer needing to carry three reels weighing 10,000 lbs. each would be 10-weeks or longer when starting with a new build. That kind of timeline was not acceptable.

Felling Trailers stocks millions of dollars of trailer inventory in various configurations/builds. The national rental company had utilized Felling Trailers’ stock inventory in the past and knew they could assist this time around too. When the rental company spoke to their Felling Trailers’ account rep. he put them in touch with Mark Rapp, Felling Trailers’ Utility & Telecom Product Specialist. After learning the project’s details, Rapp

suggested the FT-30-2 LP (low profile) a 15-ton tag trailer. The FT-30-2 LP is a Felling Trailers model that is a standard inventoried trailer and would be a perfect model to convert to a heavy three-reel hauler.

with the FT-30-2’s, the rental company recently added a set of FT-24-2 LP triple reels with smaller and lighter reels for the contractor’s task of providing conductor for the substations the main feeds are brought to or the solar project.

The FT-30-2 LPs were mounted with a one-piece, three-reel rack assembly bolted directly to the flat deck surface. The reel rack assembly was manufactured with 3” x 3” heavy wall steel tubing. The assembly was equipped with a 2.88” diameter reel bar that spins on a 660 SAE continuous cast bronze bushing saddles. The reel bars were fitted with a cross arm to tie the reel spool to the reel bar and a locking collar to keep the reels centered. Both the cross arm and locking collar are equipped with lifting hooks to safely aid in loading/ unloading reels onto the rack assembly.

Cross-functionality, a removable reel rack on an equipment trailer ensures the trailer will remain utilized throughout its life.

Too many times, a dedicated reel trailer is purchased for a specific application/ project. When that job is complete, the reel trailer sits. This package allows the reel rack to be easily removed, and the trailer can then be used to haul equipment, materials, etc. When the need again arises, the reel rack assembly is easily placed back on the trailer and mounted to the trailer deck.

The renewable energy contractor uses the triple reel FT-30-2 LP units to bring the power from the solar fields. The rental company has ordered eight of these trailers that have gone directly to the job sites and are presently ordering the reel rack/trailer package for their rental inventory. Along

Felling Trailers’ cable reel rack.

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About Felling Trailers, Inc. Felling Trailers is a family-owned and operated Full Line Trailer Manufacturer located in Central Minnesota. Started in 1974, Felling Trailers, Inc. has grown from a small shop to a factory and office complex that today covers over 325,000 square feet.

Felling’s pride and differentiation is its customized trailer division. Its engineers utilize the latest Industry-leading design techniques, and its experienced metal craftspeople use cutting-edge technology to turn its customers’ conceptual trailer needs into a tangible product. Felling has been providing innovative trailer solutions to the transportation industry for over 45 years. Felling Trailers’ current capabilities allow them to provide a high-quality product that is distributed across North America and internationally. Felling Trailers, Inc. is an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certified company, WBENC-Certified WBE company, and an Equal Opportunity Employer. www.NATM.com

Member News

Tracks For more information, contact (800) 245-2809, sales@felling.com, or visit them on the web at www.Felling.com. Follow them on Twitter (@FellingTrailers), Facebook (Felling Trailers, Inc.), and Pinterest.

Formula Trailers Promotes Brent Sheehan to Regional Sales Manager Formula Trailers announced today that Brent Sheehan has been promoted to Regional Sales Manager over all of Formula and Impact Trailers’ sales.

In this new role, he will be responsible for dealer relations, product development and supporting his regional sales team and dealer network. Sheehan has spent the last three years as a territory sales manager.

“When Sheehan joined the team in 2018, we quickly recognized not only his extensive industry expertise, but also his tenacity and determination to push sales to delivery and produce dealer satisfaction,” said Jeff Troyer, President, Formula Trailers. “The promotion sets us up for success as we head into what we anticipate to be a busy future for the cargo trailer industry.”

Brent makes his home in Michigan and is a graduate of Hope College. He is a sales veteran with over 20 years of sales experience, with nearly ten years of experience in the cargo trailer industry. He has a variety of hobbies to include biking, golfing, snow skiing, hiking, camping and reading, but he really enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.

“I’m very excited to have the opportunity to lead such a great and dynamic sales team,” Sheehan says. “I’ve been a part of the Formula family from the beginning, and it has been an incredible joy for me. I www.NATM.com

am looking forward to taking on this new responsibility to help shape the future of our business. We have such a quality team, outstanding dealer partnerships and the best products in the industry. The future could not be brighter.”

Formula Trailers was established in 2018 by two veterans of the cargo trailer industry, Jeff Troyer and Matt Arnold.

Formula Trailers strives to fulfill new trailer offerings not being produced by its competitors. Formula is focused on providing customers with outstanding value, great standard features and service that’s backed by strong dealer partnerships.

Link Obtains Hadley’s SmartValve and SAMS Brands, Integrated Dynamic Suspension Control Business and More in Strategic Acquisition With gains of product, engineering, software and sales assets from Hadley, Link exponentially expands its capabilities in the advanced suspension control segment, positioning itself for future innovation and growth.

Link Mfg., Ltd., the leader in specialtyengineered suspensions, announced that it has finalized an agreement acquiring valve and suspension control product lines and related expertise from Hadley Products Corp. A manufacturer and supplier to commercial truck, bus, RV, military and specialty vehicle markets since the 1940s, Hadley’s well-known brands include its award-winning SmartValve Electronic Height Control System and Smart Air Management System (SAMS).

As part of Link’s investment, several key staff will be transitioning from Hadley to the Link team. Link will also obtain the rights to Hadley’s dynamic air suspension

control technology that improves aerodynamics, reduces rolling resistance and increases tractive performance by precisely balancing a vehicle’s weight at speed. Hadley’s entire portfolio of legacy mechanical height control valve business is also being procured by Link in the transaction.

“Link’s strategy to bring revolutionary suspension control technology to market has been in progress for several years now, and this acquisition significantly expands our offering, broadens our sector penetration and will accelerate not only our development of new innovations, but will enhance our electrical engineering and software development capabilities,” said Jim Huls, president of Link Manufacturing. “We’ve had a longstanding, collaborative relationship with Hadley. We know their products and capabilities well, and have formed timetested professional relationships with those who are joining the Link Family.”

The move accelerates Link’s expansion into the suspension control segment of the heavy truck market, increasing its synergistic influence on cab and chassis suspensions and extending its reach firmly into the trailer side of the marketplace.

Overall, commercial vehicle suspension controls affect handling characteristics, the safety and comfort of drivers, and the protection of cargo.

With the 2019 introduction of its ROI Cabmate Suspension, Link had already emerged as the leading innovator in dynamic suspension damping for class 8 tractor cabs. Now, armed with Hadley’s mechanically and electronically controlled air suspension technology, Link will be an undisputed force in driver-focused safety, fuel efficiency and load management solutions as well.

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“The whole of this acquisition is worth far more than the sum of its parts, and leverages a long-term relationship forged between Hadley and Link that is more than 35 years in the making,” said Jim Fitzell, president and CEO of Hadley Products Corp. “With electronic valve and controls expertise from Hadley, coupled with smart suspension damping expertise from Link, customers will enjoy the best of both worlds.”

One of the most significant components of the acquisition is the enhanced control system capability being secured by Link.

In their previous work with major truck and trailer OEMs, Hadley’s engineers have been key development partners in CAN bus system integration, using ISO 26262 compliance standards. Their experience and the proprietary firmware developed to interface with OEMs will benefit Link as the company seeks broader and deeper production integration with manufacturers in the future.

The newly acquired programming dexterity enhances Link’s existing capabilities, enabling it to deliver suspension control technologies that are hardened to meet today’s and tomorrow’s cybersecurity demands. And as new, advanced electric vehicles are being planned, Link is well positioned to provide smarter air management systems that minimize compressor run times, thus conserving commercial EVs critical energy.

“Much like Link, Hadley has built a reputation for dependability, collaboration and responsiveness among its customers and within the commercial vehicle industry,” Huls said. “We sincerely value what Hadley has achieved and intend to enhance value to the marketplace through our broader array of suspension, suspension control and specialty products,

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and through the capabilities of our talented team.”

Link products are available and can be ordered through Link’s nationwide network of dealers. For more information on Link products or to find a dealer, please call (800) 222-6283 or visit: www.LinkMfg.com/dealers.

To access high-resolution images of products referenced in this press release, please visit: www.LinkMfg.com/ news/2021/link-obtains-hadley-valves.

About Hadley Products Corp.

Hadley is a well-known and respected supplier of quality components and solutions for the class 5-8 truck and tractor, trailer, transit & shuttle bus, RV, motorcoach, specialty vehicle markets and associated aftermarket distribution. Their products include Hadley’s world-famous air horns, mechanical and electronic SAMS and SmartValve height control valves for chassis and cab air suspension systems, truck mirrors, transit mirrors, mini 12- and 24-volt DC air compressors for a variety of applications, and fully integrated interior lighting systems and luggage racks for transit, shuttle and motorcoach vehicles. Hadley continues to expand its customer product and service offerings and is a pioneering force in the creation of value-added “Smart” products and systems. Hadley’s aggressive innovation process reflects its focus on: “Your Vehicle. Your Company. Your Success.” For more information, visit www.HadleyAdvantage.com.

About Link Mfg., Ltd. Link develops and manufactures a variety of suspension systems specially engineered to address the unique needs of commercial vehicles and equipment.

Link is driven to outperform as the

worldwide leader in heavy-duty truck cab air suspensions marketed under the brand name Cabmate. U.S.-based Link Manufacturing is an IATF 16949 and ISO 14001: 2015 (EMS) certified company whose primary products include cab, chassis and auxiliary suspensions.

Canadian-based Link Suspensions of Canada is an ISO 9001 certified company whose primary products include heavy vocational and off-highway chassis suspensions. Link also makes specialty products such as tire pressure equalization systems, ramps and other products designed to enhance the productivity of commercial vehicles. For more information, visit www.LinkMfg.com/ Link and Cabmate are registered trademarks of Link Mfg., Ltd. Road Optimized Innovation, ROI, SmartValve and Smart Air Management System (SAMS) are trademarks of Link Mfg., Ltd. Names of original equipment manufacturers may be trademarks of their respective organizations.

References to makes, models and product designations are for reference purposes only. Neither Link Mfg., nor its products are sponsored or endorsed by the referenced original equipment manufacturers, and there is nothing else in the use of these designations that should lead a reader to believe that there is an association between Link Mfg. and these organizations.

Powerbrace Corporation Announces Brian Senn’s Retirement Powerbrace Corporation would like to recognize the retirement of Brian Senn after over 28 years of service to the company and has his name on 28 patents. www.NATM.com

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Brian Senn, Powerbrace Corporation

appointed Jodi Rummelhart as Director of Business Development. She brings experience in product management, new product development, and marketing from a variety of industries including industrial, defense, aerospace, and steel. Jodi will be directing the commercial activities of Powerbrace’s product lines.

Wil-Ro, Inc. Joins General Motors Fleet Bailment Pool Partnership Leverages Bailment Pool Locations in Southeast Region Wil-Ro, Inc. a leading truck body manufacturer, finalized a partnership in December 2020 to join General Motors Fleet Bailment Pool, and anticipates chassis to be available through its Gallatin, Tenn.-based factory beginning mid- 2021.

Judi Rummelhart, Director of Business Development, Powerbrace Corporation

Brian has held leadership positions in engineering, and most recently in sales, marketing and business development.

Brian’s work ethic is impeccable, he’s always the first to lend a helping handby providing guidance and mentorship to a new engineer or collaborating with seasoned veterans on a new business strategy.

Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement, we’re already looking forward to your first visit to the office in your new role as retiree, you will truly be missed.

Powerbrace Corporation Announces Director of Business Development

This partnership will help support WilRo’s growth into new markets, and geographic footprint expansion among GM Commercial Dealerships on their medium-duty and Low Cab Forward (LCF) needs.

Likewise, this strategic initiative facilitates business demands and growth for WilRo’s customers, providing them greater chassis and truck body availability through GM bailment pool opportunities. “WilRo is excited and honored to join the GM bailment pool program,” said Joshua J. Coster, President and Owner of Wil-Ro, Inc. “With nearly half a century of manufacturing expertise and a Sales Team focused on building long-term relationships while driving growth, our company aligns well with GM, its bailment pool, and work truck customers of two established brands.”

Partnership GM Bailment Pool models include, Chevrolet Silverado Chassis Cab Lineup: 4500 HD, 5500 HD and 6500 HD; and Chevrolet LCF Lineup: 3500 and 4500 LCF Gas, 4500, 5500 HD/XD LCF Diesel, and 6500 XD LCF Diesel.

Following Coster’s 2017 acquisition of the 45+-year manufacturing organization, he shifted Wil-Ro’s sales strategy moving away from primarily targeting end-users and single truck bed sales, to aggressively focus on establishing and growing a National Distributor Network and cultivating nationwide reach while still nurturing its end-user customer base.

Wil-Ro, Inc. is excited to offer this opportunity to its growing dealership customer base.

About Wil-Ro, Inc. Crafted in America since 1973, Wil-Ro, Inc. manufactures high-quality truck bodies and trailers for landscaping, hauling, construction, equipment distribution, and farming, as well as outdoor adventure excursions. Wil-Ro’s premier truck bodies and trailers come in a variety of standard models as well as custom configurations to fit the needs of customers and distributor partners nationwide.

Headquartered in Gallatin, Tennessee, WilRo focuses on craftsmanship and people, fostering time honored manufacturing processes to build the strongest, longestlasting truck beds and trailers in the industry.

Forged in the fires of the American spirit, Wil-Ro is 100 percent American made, and Veteran owned. For more information, please visit Wil-Ro.com.

Powerbrace Corporation recently

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www.NATM.com

New Member Update

Tracks Coffee Creek MFG LLC

L&O Manufacturing

412369 St Hwy 3

505 W Tate St

Acela, Inc.

Antlers, OK 74523

Union City, TN 38261

540 Business Hub Dr

• Utility/Flatbed

• Utility/Flatbed

www.acelainc.com

Eaton Compressor & Fabrication

Little Mountain Mfg

• Custom Design

1000 Cass Dr

1011 Mothersill Rd

Clayton, OH 45315

Rushville, NY 14544

American Spray Technologies

www.eatoncompressor.com

1420 20th St NW

• Portable Equipment

• Agricultural/Farm, Aluminum, Custom Design, Equipment, Landscape, Utility/Flatbed

Regular

Belgrade, MT 59714

Auburn, WA 98001 www.sprayrig.com • Equipment

FNA Group Inc - Arkansas Branch

AUSRV Inc.

Decatur, AR 72722

8420 Kass Dr Buena Park, CA 90621 www.ausrv.com • RV/Towable Bartimaeus by Design 1010 Randolph St Thomasville, NC 27360

1101 Hwy 102 www.simpsoncleaning.com • Equipment, Portable Equipment, Utility/Flatbed Harbor Freight Tools 26541 Agoura Rd Calabasas, CA 91302 www.harborfreight.com

Material Handling of Georgia, Inc. dba Tuff Dawg Trailers 4322 Hwy 81 Oxford, GA 30054 • Utility/Flatbed Maverick Manufacturing LLC 4056 FM 1960 Dayton, TX 77535 • Agricultural/Farm, Aluminum, Auto Hauler, Boat, Custom Design, Equipment, Gooseneck, Horse, Livestock, Specialty, Utility/Flatbed

• Aluminum, Specialty

• Custom Design, Landscape, Motorcycle, Snowmobile/ ATV, Utility/Flatbed

Beast

IES

MDC Campers and Caravans Inc.

2738 Homecreek Rd

18722 WCR 46

8420 Kass Dr

Grundy, VA 24614

LaSalle, CO 80645

Buena Park, CA 90621

www.beastperformance.com

www.iescombustors.com

www.mdcusa.com

• Aluminum, Auto Hauler, Snowmobile/ATV, Utility/ Flatbed

• Agricultural/Farm Aluminum, Cargo, Custom Design, Equipment, Mobile BBQ/ Smoker, Pole/Pipe/Cable Reel, Portable Equipment, Specialty, Utility/Flatbed

• RV/Towable

www.bartbydesign.com

www.NATM.com

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Tracks Mertz Manufacturing, Inc. 1701 N Waverly St Ponca City, OK 74601 www.mertzok.com • Custom Design, Specialty, Utility/Flatbed Rental Trailers MFG Inc. 801 Easy St Garland, TX 75042 • Equipment Smort Fabrication 185 Eastern Pkwy Ext Saugerties, NY 12477 • Gooseneck, RV/Towable, Utility/Flatbed Stones River Trailer Company 1515 S Church St

Whites Welding LLC 46005 S Cty Rd 202 Woodward, OK 73801 • Agricultural/Farm, Aluminum, Cargo, Custom Design, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Equipment, Gooseneck, Horse, Livestock, Mobile BBQ/ Smoker, Pole/Pipe/Cable Reel, Portable Equipment, RV/Towable, Specialty, Utility/Flatbed Yellow Cow Trailers, LLC 5960 Stoddard Hayes Rd Farmdale, OH 44417 www.yellowcowtrailers.com • Custom Design, Portable Equipment, Snowmobile/ ATV, Utility/Flatbed

• Auto Hauler, Custom Design, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Equipment, Gooseneck, Landscape, Motorcycle, Utility/Flatbed

Associate Optronics International - USA Harness - Texas Branch 1201 E Coke Rd Winnsboro, TX 75494 www.optronicsinc.com • Electrical, Lighting

Watchdog Trailers LLC 2920 W. Sample St. South Bend, IN 46619 • Agricultural/Farm, Dump, Equipment, Landscape, Portable Equipment, Utility/ Flatbed

101 Hwy 146 N Texas City, TX 77590 Chattanooga Trailer & Rental, Inc 7445 Lee Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37421 www.chattanoogatrailer.com Grand Trailer Sales, LLC 1304 Central Ave NE East Grand Forks, MN 56721 www.grandtrailersales.com Kerlin Trailers 9944 S State Road 15 Silver Lake, IN 46982

Murfreesboro, TN 37130 www.facebook.com/ stonesrivertrailers/

Casper Electric Corp. DBA Cobalt Trailers & UTV

Optronics International Indiana Branch 3535 Corrie Dr Goshen, IN 46526 www.optronicsinc.com • Lighting •

Dealer Affiliate

www.kerlinmotors.com Marciano’s Truck Equipment 219 Boston Post Rd Port Chester, NY 10573 Sharp Trailers LLC 637 E Hwy 57 Elnora, IN 47529 www.sharptrailers.com Sunrise Service LLC 216109 State Hwy 13 Unity, WI 54488 www.sunriseservicellc.com

51 Trailer Sales 524 US Hwy 51 Stoughton, WI 53589

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www.51Trailersales.com

www.NATM.com

thinking ahead on backing up.

Voyager ® Vision turns your smart device into a short-range, wireless camera monitor, for use with the Voyager WVOS2TX Wi-Fi transmitter and up to two wired Voyager cameras.

The transmitter delivers the camera feed directly to your device to assist during low-speed maneuvers, stationary observation or for surveillance.

learn more on youtube

Contact Jeff Gray at jgray@asaelectronics.com for more information.

LIPPERT™ AXLES ALWAYS TAKE YOU FARTHER.

PREMIUM BLACK POWDER-COAT FINISH

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ZINC-PLATED HARDWARE

WHENEVER, WHEREVER, WE MAKE YOUR EXPERIENCE BETTER. At Lippert, our goal is to make products that help you discover the ultimate sense of freedom. With thousands of team members globally, innovation is at our core and we will never wait to see what can be done better.

Our products are inventive and inspired.

We promise you the best Customer Service, period.

Why? Because your adventure is on the line, and it’s our job to make every future journey even better than those of the past. Our purpose is clear: We are a Company where Everyone Matters. Every Customer. Every Team Member. We support the Communities we work in with over 100,000 hours of collective service every year.

We make lives better.

ASSEMBLED IN THE USA

VALCRUM PREMIUM OIL CAPS STANDARD ON 8K - 16K AXLES

INTEGRATED ONE-PIECE SPINDLE AND FLANGE

REDEFINING “STANDARD” ON TODAY’S TRAILER AXLE. Our state-of-the-art robotic welders ensure the highest precision and quality on every component. We offer a full line of reliable 2 – 16K spring axles, 2 – 12K torsion axles and 10 – 16K heavy-duty capacity axles to meet your unique specifications. We now offer Valcrum Premium Oil Caps standard on 8K – 16K spring and torsion axles.

THE INDUSTRY LEADING LIMITED AXLE WARRANTY: LIMITED 1 YEAR WARRANTY – grease and oil seals for all axles LIMITED 6 YEAR WARRANTY – spring axle welds and suspension systems LIMITED 11 YEAR WARRANTY – torsion axle welds and suspension components

lippertcomponents.com