Trucking news and briefs for Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025:
FMCSA waives maximum driving time regs for Lower 48, D.C. heating fuel drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a regional emergency declaration covering all 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.
The agency said the declaration is “in response to severe winter storms, extreme low temperatures and fuel high demand resulting in difficulty in distribution of necessary heating fuel, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil, in the affected states, and the current and anticipated effects on people and property, including the immediate risk to public health, safety and welfare.”
The declaration waives the maximum driving time hours-of-service regulations in 49 CFR 395.3 for motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts transporting heating fuel, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil, essentially anywhere in the contiguous U.S.
FMCSA noted that direct assistance means transportation and other relief services provided by a motor carrier or its drivers for immediate restoration of essential supplies or essential services. Direct assistance does not include transportation related to long-term rehabilitation of damaged physical infrastructure after the initial threat to life and property has passed, nor does it include routine commercial deliveries, including mixed loads with a nominal quantity of qualifying emergency relief added to obtain the benefits of the declaration.
The declaration is effective through the end of the emergency, or until 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Jan. 31, whichever is earlier.
Last week, a number of individual states declared their own emergencies due to winter weather.
Shell Rotella intros new fuel card
Shell Rotella announced this week the launch of the Shell Rotella Fuel Card in conjunction with the Multi Service Fuel Card.
Shell Rotella
"This is a milestone for Shell Rotella as we introduce the new Shell Rotella Fuel Card, a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing more for fleets and owner-operators," said Leigha Hughes, fleet sector marketing manager. "An important goal with this card is to empower fleets with tools and benefits that directly support and reward their hard work and dedication.”
Shell Rotella said cardholders can enjoy an average savings of 45 cents per gallon off the credit price at participating locations. The savings are based on actual discounted gallons purchased by all Multi Service Fuel Card customers in 2024. Actual savings by customers will vary. The new card is accepted at more than 8,900 locations across the United States and Canada.
Leveraging the Multi Service Fuel Card mobile app alongside the Shell Rotella Fuel Card provides gives drivers visibility to the most up-to-date diesel pricing across the network while trip planning, while fleet managers can access transaction history and manage cards and users on the go.
To support business growth, the Shell Rotella Fuel Card offers multiple credit options and dedicated account management, ensuring that each customer receives personalized support and solutions tailored to their needs. The card also offers flexible billing statements, departmental billing to streamline accounting, and consolidated billing for a comprehensive overview of fuel expenses, all designed to support business operations.
With One-Time PIN functionality through the mobile app, the card also provides fraud protection from pump skimmers.
With features that enable the authorization of non-fuel items and set spend limitations, the new card offers comprehensive fuel management solutions, Shell Rotella said. Additionally, InstaMoney Checks provide a secure way for drivers to access cash for lumpers, repair shops, or tows.
ITS Logistics sponsors TAT, wraps two trailers
ITS Logistics has wrapped two trailers as part of its support of TAT.ITS Logistics
ITS Logistics, an asset-based third-party logistics provider, has announced its sponsorship of TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking), an organization dedicated to raising awareness in the fight against human trafficking.
In addition to its Silver-level sponsorship, ITS Logistics has designed and wrapped two of its trailers to promote a powerful message: "Anyone can be a victim of human trafficking. Be Aware. Make the call. Save lives."
“As a leading logistics provider, we understand our vital role in not only moving goods across the country, but also in helping the communities we serve through strategic partnerships," said Mike Crawford, ITS Logistics Chief Operations Officer. "By partnering with TAT and wrapping a few of our trailers, we are committed to leveraging our resources, network, and visibility in key markets to raise awareness, provide training, and ultimately make a lasting impact on this critical issue.”
Aside from wrapping trailers, ITS Logistics will incorporate TAT’s training broadly into their company’s education program as part of the onboarding process, equipping not only drivers, but also warehouse associates, brokers, and office staff across the organization with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to potential trafficking situations. The company will also be posting education and awareness signage in driver reception areas in all its distribution and fulfillment centers across North America.
