Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, July 3, 2025:
CloudTrucks seeks exemption from certain driver application requirements
The CloudTrucks “virtual” carrier is seeking an exemption from federal regulations related to the hiring of truck drivers.
The company has petitioned the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for an exemption from the requirement to collect the following information from prospective drivers: list of employers’ names, addresses, dates of employment, reason for leaving, nature of the position the driver held, and if the driver was subject to the alcohol and controlled substances testing requirements.
Instead, CloudTrucks proposes using its own verification process that consists of cross-referencing national databases to include HireRight’s Drive-A-Check (DAC) report, FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH), Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP), and Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS).
CloudTrucks contends that the requirements for driver applicants to provide the above information on an application “were created for paper applications and ‘single-fleet carriers,’” FMCSA said. CloudTrucks “asserts that these requirements are inefficient and yield low response rates, frequent errors, and long cycle times.”
The company said that the exemption, if granted, “would allow the recruiting of qualified drivers at a faster pace, decrease the administrative workload for prior employers, and, most crucially, enhance highway safety by relying on credible federal databases instead of unproductive paper processes.”
CloudTrucks added that using federal databases to validate each applicant’s background “collectively provides a more accurate and timely safety profile than what the regulations require.”
The company also outlined additional safeguards it takes to achieve a level of safety at least equivalent to what would be achieved without the exemption. These include a CloudTrucks Safety Score updated nightly that factors in ELD compliance, speeding, harsh events, inspections and more; a three-strikes program that includes coaching, suspension and termination for repeated unsafe behavior; continuous monitoring with in-cab telematics; and a zero-tolerance Clearinghouse policy that any prohibited status leads to immediate disqualification.
FMCSA is accepting comments on CloudTrucks’ request here through July 31.
[Related: Virtual carrier offers a different kind of minimum revenue guarantee]
Ryder names ‘Driver of the Year’ honorees
Ryder System, Inc. (CCJ Top 250, No. 8) in late June announced the winners of its 53rd annual “Driver of the Year” award, celebrating three professional truck drivers who exemplify the highest standards of safety, service, and leadership across its supply chain, dedicated transportation, and fleet management businesses.
This year’s honorees – James “Jim” Jones, Roland Esquibel, and Mark Jones – earn induction into the Ryder “Driver Hall of Fame” not just for their stellar driving records, but for their lasting impact on the company, their teams, and their communities. Together, the three drivers bring 105 years of combined experience and have logged nearly 6 million miles.
“Our drivers move more than freight. They move our company and our customers’ businesses forward,” says Ryder Chairman and CEO Robert Sanchez. “Jim, Roland, and Mark represent the very best of Ryder and our customers, from their skill behind the wheel to their character and commitment to their communities. They are true ambassadors of our values and our brand.”
Based in Mason, Michigan, Jim Jones is a standout performer in Ryder’s Supply Chain Solutions business, bringing 38 years of professional driving experience, including the past eight years with Ryder. Over the course of his career, he has driven more than 2 million miles, all while maintaining a stellar safety record and a steady hand under pressure. When he’s not on the road, he serves as a volunteer firefighter with the Mason Fire Department, demonstrating his deep-rooted commitment to service.
Hailing from Devine, Texas, Roland Esquibel brings unmatched dedication and professionalism to Ryder’s Dedicated Transportation Solutions segment, the company said. With 35 years of professional driving experience – including the past four years with Ryder – Esquibel has logged more than 2.3 million miles over his career. A respected U.S. military veteran and proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Esquibel channels his service and leadership skills into every delivery.
Operating out of Sacramento, California, Mark Jones is the recipient of Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions’ (FMS) “Customer Driver of the Year” award, which recognizes drivers who go above and beyond to keep roads safe while operating Ryder vehicles. With 32 years of safe driving performance and more than 1.5 million miles driven, he also mentors new drivers and plays a key role in ensuring reliable, on-time deliveries for Ryder’s FMS customers. A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, he earned three Bronze Stars and the Southwest Asia Service Medal, bringing the same discipline and excellence from his military career to the road every day.
Boss Truck Shop opens new West Memphis location
Boss Truck Shop has opened its newest location in West Memphis, Arkansas.
Located at 400 Mound City Road just off I-40/I-55 Exit 281, the new shop expands the company's national footprint to 44 locations, offering critical support to drivers traveling through one of the busiest freight corridors in the country, the company said.
The West Memphis location is now open and fully operational, offering a wide range of services including tire care, oil and lube, preventative maintenance, federal DOT inspections, A/C system services, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. The shop is designed with the professional driver in mind, the company added, and features wide service bays, ASE-certified technicians, and a clean, comfortable waiting area.
"We're excited to open our newest shop in West Memphis and provide service at a key point in the national freight network," said Jake England, Director of Boss Truck Shop. "This location strengthens our ability to serve drivers along a major corridor and reflects our continued investment in the people and routes that keep America moving."
No appointment is necessary, and all drivers -- whether independent or fleet customers -- are welcome.
