Latest news with #Mid-AmericaTruckingShow
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Playbook Makes a Bold Debut at MATS 2025
LOUISVILLE, KY — The Playbook, a newly launched knowledge hub and support platform for small fleets and owner-operators, made a powerful first appearance at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) this weekend, offering a fresh, on-the-ground perspective and leaving a lasting impression on the industry. Throughout the three-day event, The Playbook team handed out over 500 copies of its inaugural Small Carrier Almanac, a quarterly publication packed with insights, tools, and planning guidance tailored to small trucking businesses. Designed to meet carriers where they are — in the cab, on the yard, or in the trenches — the almanac quickly became a must-have resource. But it wasn't just about the giveaway; hundreds of fleet owners and independent drivers stopped by the booth, hungry for deeper conversation about business growth, operational knowledge, and elevating their position in the supply chain. 'We had incredible conversations with real people who are rethinking how they run their trucking businesses,' said Adam L. Wingfield, co-creator of The Playbook. 'There's a movement happening, and we're proud to help lead it.'Flatbed Momentum and Market Shifts Many of those conversations came from flatbed operators, who reported a notable spike in rates — a sentiment supported by recent tender rejection data and the surge in front-loading freight ahead of pending tariffs. One flatbedder from Texas noted, 'It's the best it's looked in months. The urgency in the market is finally shifting in our favor.' This wasn't just anecdotal. The conversations at MATS showed a growing awareness of macroeconomic movements and how data-backed insights — like those found in The Playbook's resources — can help carriers make smarter, more strategic decisions. Brokers Breaking the MoldSurprisingly, brokers were not shy about stepping into the spotlight either. One broker from New Jersey, who specializes in hazmat tanker freight, proudly shared that she pays her small fleets and owner-operators between $3.80 and $5.50 per mile — well above the national average. 'It's simple,' she said. 'If you want quality service, you've got to pay what they're worth. We don't cut corners, and we don't nickel and dime the people who keep the wheels turning.' This approach reflects a quiet but powerful trend: a segment of brokers redefining the transactional reputation of freight brokerage by investing in long-term relationships and transparency. Trust Over Transactions That same theme carried into another notable moment, a conversation with a shipper attending MATS for the very first time. Her goal was simple and refreshing: 'I came here to find a carrier face to face that I can really trust,' she said. It was a candid reminder that while AI, automation, and data-driven strategies dominate headlines, human relationships — built on trust — remain the backbone of logistics. Gaps in Reach, and the Opportunity Ahead Despite the size and scale of MATS, it became clear that large swaths of small carriers still haven't heard of FreightWaves — a surprising revelation, considering its role as a dominant industry where The Playbook comes in. 'We're here to bridge that gap,' said Wingfield. 'The Playbook is the vehicle to bring FreightWaves-caliber insights to the people who need it most — those in the trenches, on the road, running lean but hungry to scale.' A Surprising Absence and Fiery Conversations One of the more unexpected takeaways was the absence of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), something that raised eyebrows among attendees, given the ATA's positioning as the voice of the industry. 'To not have them here, when independent carriers are driving this show, speaks volumes,' one owner-operator commented. 'You can't represent the people if you're not where the people are.' Meanwhile, the FMCSA Round Table turned into a powder keg of opinions as debate around non-English-speaking CDL holders took center stage. The conversation was impassioned and, at times, contentious, underscoring a growing divide between regulatory policy and the realities of a multilingual workforce that keeps freight moving across the country. From Chrome to Cybertrucks: A Visual Experience On the floor, Kenworth's W900 Legacy Edition drew awe from diehard truck enthusiasts — one of only 1,000 final models ever to be produced, each individually numbered in reverse as a final tribute to the iconic design. Equally buzzworthy was Geico's first-time booth, where an oversized, nostalgic claw machine delivered a dose of interactive fun and consistently one of the biggest crowds in the expo hall. Truck Parking Club brought the energy too, not just with their engaging team, but with a bold flex: a Tesla Cybertruck that turned heads and filled phones with selfies. Automation, AI, and the Dispatch Debate AI-powered solutions were everywhere this year, most notably in the form of automated dispatching services that promised to handle broker negotiations, load searches, and booking processes without human intervention. One AI company stunned attendees with bots that could simultaneously call 100 brokers, offering a glimpse at the near-future of digital freight management. Still, not all were sold. Many veteran dispatchers and owner-operators expressed both curiosity and caution. 'It's impressive, but you still can't automate hustle or experience,' said one carrier from Georgia. A First Chapter and a Growing Community Friday was the busiest day by far, while Saturday's sunshine saw crowds migrating outdoors to explore the custom show truck displays, where chrome, lights, and culture collided in a celebration of the craft and pride behind trucking. For The Playbook, the debut was about much more than presence — it was about impact. 'We walked in to introduce ourselves, but we walked out knowing that we've got a movement behind us,' Wingfield said. 'This is only the beginning.' The post The Playbook Makes a Bold Debut at MATS 2025 appeared first on FreightWaves. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Parking Club live from Mid-America Trucking Show
On episode 818 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner and special guest co-host Reed Loustalot are coming to you live from the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. Tune in to get your finger on the pulse of what the driver community is saying their more pressing issues are. Catch new shows live at noon EDT Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on FreightWaves LinkedIn, Facebook, X or YouTube, or on demand by looking up WHAT THE TRUCK?!? on your favorite podcast player and at 5 p.m. Eastern on SiriusXM's Road Dog Trucking Channel on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsorSubscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts The post WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Parking Club live from Mid-America Trucking Show appeared first on FreightWaves.
Associated Press
25-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Truckstop Survey Reveals Growing Reliance on Factoring Among Carriers
BOISE, Idaho, March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heading into the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Truckstop conducted an online survey of more than 350 carriers to gain insight into the evolving landscape of freight factoring. The survey revealed that factoring remains a crucial financial tool for carriers, with nearly 80% of those who factor planning to factor the same or more loads this year. In comparison to last year, 38% of factoring customers plan to factor more loads, underscoring a growing reliance on factoring to maintain cash flow. The survey also highlighted that speed of payment and trustworthiness of a factoring provider are the most important considerations in a carrier's decision to factor. Additionally, protection against non-payment and lower fees emerged as the top reasons carriers would consider switching providers. 'Carriers are constantly navigating financial pressures, from unpredictable market conditions to managing day-to-day cash flow,' said Kendra Tucker, chief executive officer, Truckstop. 'Our Truckstop solutions are designed to help carriers operate efficiently and with confidence, ensuring they have the financial flexibility to keep their businesses moving.' New Carrier Product Feature In addition to releasing new industry insights, Truckstop is launching an innovative new feature on its load board to help carriers operate more efficiently. The Authority Filter is designed to assist new carriers in securing business by identifying brokers who are willing to work with them. This tool provides transparency by displaying a broker's authority age requirement directly within load details, allowing carriers to quickly filter loads they are qualified to haul and build relationships with brokers whose requirements align with their authority age. ProTalks Education Series As part of the ProTalks Education Series at MATS, Truckstop executives will partake in three insightful sessions: one on building a profitable freight network with brokers, another on navigating the freight landscape in 2025, and a third highlighting women's leadership in the industry. Taryn Daker, Director of Customer Success at Truckstop, will be participating in the Women's Leadership in Trucking Panel at the ProTalks Stage in the East Hall. This panel will bring together influential industry leaders to discuss key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of women in trucking: Friday, March 28 (11:00 a.m. EDT): Women's Leadership in Trucking Panel presented by African American Women Trucking Association, Taryn will join other influential women leaders to discuss strategic solutions for driver recruitment and retention, essential industry resources for women, and key safety and advocacy initiatives that promote career growth and equity. Additionally, Truckstop's Senior Advisor, Brent Hutto, will be sharing his vast knowledge of the industry during two sessions being held in the ProTalks Theater, room B104: Thursday, March 27 (2:15 p.m. EDT): Brokers Are Not the Enemy: Building a Profitable Freight Network with Brokers, Brent will be joined on stage by seasoned professional Tyler Johnston, Director of Operations at Mercer Transportation, who will share their insights on the mutually beneficial relationships between brokers and carriers. Friday, March 28 (1:30 p.m. EDT): 2025: A Year of Opportunity – How to Choose the Right Freight for Your Business, Todd Amen, President and CEO of ATBS, will join Hutto as they discuss key strategies for identifying the best loads, optimizing your routes, and leveraging technology to make smarter decisions. Truckstop is also sponsoring the CMC Live event featuring Kevin Rutherford aimed at helping carriers elevate their career and step into the role of a Certified Master Carrier. Whether attendees are starting with their first truck or looking to expand to a small fleet, Rutherford will dive into effective business planning, discover essential trucking tools, as well as network with fellow drivers. Truckstop Factoring Cash Grab Booth & Exclusive Show Promotions Showgoers won't want to miss the Truckstop Factoring Cash Grab Booth experience. Those who complete a factoring application at Booth #16160 will be invited to enter the cash booth and collect as much money as possible. The total amount gathered will be calculated, and participants will receive a gift card equivalent to their collected total. In addition to the cash grab booth, attendees who attend a product demonstration of the Truckstop platform in the company's booth will receive a custom-designed t-shirt while supplies last. Additionally, Truckstop is offering new customers (attending the show) $50 off for their first three months of Load Board Pro. About Truckstop Truckstop is a trusted partner for carriers, brokers, and shippers, empowering the freight community through a platform of innovative solutions for the entire freight lifecycle to help increase efficiency, automate processes, and accelerate growth. As one of the industry's largest neutral freight marketplaces, Truckstop provides the customer service as well as scale of quality loads and trucks to give customers of all sizes, whether on the road or in the office, the transparency and freedom to build lasting relationships and grow their businesses. To learn how Truckstop is helping move the freight community forward, visit
Yahoo
07-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
How to Maximize Your MATS Experience as a Small Carrier/Owner-Operator
Attending the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) can be overwhelming. With over 50,000 attendees, thousands of vendors, and over a million square feet of exhibition space, it's easy to get lost in the spectacle. If you go in without a plan, you'll end up wandering aimlessly, snapping pictures, and walking away with a bag full of brochures but no real business impact. If you're intentional, MATS can be one of the most productive events of your year. I remember my first time at MATS over a decade ago—I walked the entire show, letting the sheer size and excitement consume me. Now, my approach is completely different. I go in with a focused strategy, maximizing my time and ensuring my company benefits. If you're a small carrier or owner-operator, here's how you can do the same. Before you even step foot in the convention center, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve at MATS? Are you looking to make your fleet more efficient? Seeking better fuel solutions? Exploring compliance software? Networking with brokers or factoring companies? Identify your top three priorities and let those guide your experience. For example, if fuel efficiency is your focus, you should target exhibitors that offer fuel management technology, alternative fuel solutions, and aerodynamic enhancements. If you want to improve compliance, visit booths featuring ELD providers, safety equipment, and regulatory consultants. This isn't a field trip—it's an investment in your business, and every move you make should support that investment. MATS provides an exhibitor list ahead of time—download it. Identify the vendors that align with your objectives and map out a plan to visit them first. The show floor is massive, and if you just wander around, you'll waste valuable time. Prioritize key exhibitors, have a list of questions ready, and make real business connections. Trying to see everything at MATS is a rookie mistake. I don't try to walk the entire show anymore, and neither should you. I go straight to the exhibitors that align with my business goals, have productive conversations, and if I have extra time, then I might explore. You should do the same. For example, if you're a fleet owner considering expanding into dedicated freight lanes, schedule time with brokers, shipper representatives, and technology providers that specialize in lane optimization. If you're thinking about adding trucks, visit financing and leasing exhibitors. This keeps you focused and ensures you leave with actionable takeaways rather than just sore feet. MATS is over a million square feet—trust me, it's easy to get lost in the different wings. Make sure you know where your key exhibitors are located and plan your route accordingly. Trying to bounce back and forth across the entire venue is a time-waster. Stay organized and move efficiently. Consider using the MATS app if available or even printing out a map and marking your must-visit booths. Think about what you need to accomplish first and structure your day around that. For example, hit up technology vendors in the morning, financing companies in the afternoon, and spend any leftover time checking out new industry innovations. MATS offers Pro Talks, a series of educational sessions featuring industry experts discussing the latest trends, best practices, and strategies for small carriers and owner-operators. These sessions can be extremely valuable, but again, be strategic about which ones you attend. If you're focused on reducing operational costs, look for talks on fuel efficiency, maintenance strategies, or negotiating better rates. If growing your business is your goal, attend discussions on shipper relationships, government contracting, or carrier compliance. Don't just attend a session because it sounds interesting—make sure it directly benefits your business objectives. A good strategy is to review the Pro Talks schedule in advance, highlight the sessions that align with your goals, and plan them into your day without sacrificing time on the show floor visiting key exhibitors. You want to balance learning with making direct industry connections. If it's your first time at MATS, you will be overwhelmed. The lights, the displays, the custom rigs—it's a lot to take in. That's why I recommend using Thursday as your day to soak it all in. Walk the floor, take your pictures, and let yourself enjoy the spectacle. But come Friday and Saturday, it's all business. Get focused, have meetings, and execute your plan. For example, if you've never seen a decked-out, show-ready Peterbilt in person, go ahead and check it out on Thursday. If you're curious about the latest truck interior upgrades or sleeper cabs, browse those areas early. But when business time comes, don't get sidetracked by shiny objects. This isn't a quick trip to the grocery store—it's a massive event with miles of walking. Wear comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you. Also, plan to leave your hotel early. Traffic around the convention center is no joke, and if you're using Uber, be patient. Drivers sometimes struggle to find pickup spots in the chaos. For instance, if your hotel is 15 minutes away under normal conditions, expect it to take 30-40 minutes during peak MATS hours. Plan ahead, and if you have meetings or appointments with exhibitors, account for the extra travel time so you're not rushing. Too many people attend MATS just to walk around, take pictures, and grab free swag. That's a wasted opportunity. You're the CEO of your company—treat this event as a business development opportunity. Every conversation should have a purpose. Every vendor visit should serve your business goals. For example, instead of just collecting brochures, ask real questions: 'How can your product improve my bottom line?' 'What kind of return on investment have other small carriers seen using your service?' 'What's the biggest challenge your customers face, and how do you solve it?' Treat MATS like a business meeting, not a sightseeing trip. MATS isn't just about the exhibitors—it's about the people. You'll be surrounded by industry leaders, successful fleet owners, and service providers. Have meaningful conversations, exchange contacts, and follow up afterward. Relationships built at MATS can open doors long after the show ends. For instance, if you meet a shipper looking for capacity, exchange information and follow up with an email the next week. If you meet a factoring company representative, discuss what kind of rates and services they offer that could be better than your current setup. Every handshake should have a purpose. MATS is the largest trucking show in the world. If you leverage it correctly, it can be a game-changer for your business. Go in with a plan, stay focused, and be intentional. Whether you're looking to optimize your fleet, build partnerships, or explore new technologies, MATS is your opportunity to gain a competitive edge. And don't forget—make Booth #38248, FreightWaves Playbook, a priority stop to gain exclusive insights that can take your business to the next level. Don't just attend—maximize it. The post How to Maximize Your MATS Experience as a Small Carrier/Owner-Operator appeared first on FreightWaves. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Trump's tariffs are coming March 4th…or are they?
On episode 808 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is talking about Trump's tariffs on Mexico and Canada that are set to begin on March 4. Will they happen and will reciprocal tariffs happen in April? We get into the latest news on the trade war. The World Trade Bridge is celebrating its 25th anniversary and we're celebrating it with Port Laredo. Kent Richard smartens us up on how this crucial gateway works. Truck Parking Club has been scaling rapidly and building an all-star team. Brent Hutto jumped ship from Truckstop to Truck Parking Club early this week and we'll find out why he made the big move. We'll also get into the road to the Mid-America Trucking Show where we're teaming up. What FreightTech trends will dominate logistics and trucking in 2025? Trigent Software's Nagendra Rao breaks down their latest report. Plus, is it a good idea to get drunk in a semi truck trailer? Catch new shows live at noon EDT Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on FreightWaves LinkedIn, Facebook, X or YouTube, or on demand by looking up WHAT THE TRUCK?!? on your favorite podcast player and at 5 p.m. Eastern on SiriusXM's Road Dog Trucking Channel 146. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts The post Trump's tariffs are coming March 4th…or are they? | WHAT THE TRUCK?!? appeared first on FreightWaves.
