Trucking news and briefs for Friday, Feb. 14, 2025:
TCA unveils first ‘Elite Fleet’ certified carriers
The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) on Thursday unveiled its first-ever TCA Elite Fleet certified carriers.
Forty-seven truckload carriers earned the esteemed TCA Elite Fleet certification, recognizing them as the 2025 Best Place to Drive. This new initiative, developed in partnership with the University of Denver’s Transportation & Supply Chain Institute, highlights North American for-hire truckload carriers that foster exceptional work environments, offer competitive compensation, and implement innovative practices to support their drivers, TCA said.
The certified fleets were thoroughly evaluated based on key metrics such as safety, driver satisfaction, turnover rates, compensation, benefits, quality of life for drivers, company equipment, and operational efficiency. Surveys from drivers and independent contractors were also conducted to validate the results.
“We are incredibly proud to announce this first class of TCA Elite Fleets,” said TCA President Jim Ward. “These carriers went through a comprehensive and detailed application process, had their drivers surveyed for validation, and received top scores for their combination of driver compensation, benefits, engagement, satisfaction, training, support, company equipment, safety, and facilities. These forty-seven carriers are truly Elite Fleets, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them.”
The 47 carriers will be honored at TCA’s Annual Convention in Phoenix, with a special awards program scheduled for Monday, March 17.
API offers new resource for insights on DEF
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has launched a new resource page that provides crucial information on Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) quality, purchasing, and storage.
The information is tailored to meet the needs of consumers and professionals in trucking, agriculture, construction and other industries that operate diesel-powered trucks and equipment that require DEF.
“The API DEF Consumer Guidance offers consumers and drivers, fleet managers and others clear guidance to ensure optimal performance and compliance with emissions standards,” said Bill O’Ryan, Senior Manager-EOLCS/DEF with API. “This crucial information is designed to help expand industry knowledge and operational efficiency.”
The resource page details the importance of using high-quality DEF, explaining the characteristics of properly formulated DEF and the potential risks associated with substandard products. Using API-licensed DEF can ensure that it meets the high standards required by engine and vehicle manufacturers, the organization noted.
In addition to quality guidelines, practical advice on purchasing and storing DEF is offered. Truck drivers, farmers, construction managers and others operating diesel-powered vehicles and equipment can access expert recommendations on sourcing DEF from reputable suppliers, ensuring product integrity from purchase to application.
The page also outlines best practices for storing DEF, highlighting considerations such as temperature control and contamination prevention to maintain fluid efficacy. A downloadable Do’s and Don’ts Guide for DEF storage is available as a resource for consumers and shops.
Additional information and guidance will be added, and consumers and industry professionals are encouraged to bookmark and visit the resource page regularly to keep up on information about purchasing, using and storing API certified DEF.
