Trucking news and briefs for Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026:
FMCSA extends waiver to allow paper medical cards
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is extending its existing waiver that allows CDL and commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holders to continue to rely on a paper copy of the medical examiner’s certificate as proof of the driver’s medical certification for up to 60 days after the date the medical examiner’s certificate was issued.
FMCSA first issued the waiver in July and extended it in October. That extension expires Jan. 10. The new extension gives truck drivers the flexibility through April 10.
The waivers followed FMCSA’s implementation of its National Registry II (NRII) final rule, which required states to implement an electronic process for medical certification -- with examiners transmitting exam results to FMCSA via the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and FMCSA transmitting the results to state driver’s licensing agencies to post to the driver’s motor vehicle record (MVR).
[Related: FMCSA’s electronic medical certification system takes effect -- in most states]
As of Jan. 6, eight states have still not implemented the system that went into effect June 23, 2025 -- Alaska, California, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Oklahoma.
The new extended waiver covers interstate CDL holders, CLP holders, and motor carriers from Jan. 11 through April 10, with the following conditions:
- The waiver does not apply to a driver if the driver does not have a copy of his or her current, valid MEC on his or her person that was issued by a certified medical examiner within the prior 60 days.
- It does not apply to a motor carrier if the motor carrier does not have a copy of the driver’s current, valid MEC that was issued by a certified medical examiner within the prior 60 days.
[Related: CVSA asks FMCSA to issue guidance about allowance of paper medical cards]
Echo Global Logistics launches new cross-border customs brokerage service
Echo Global Logistics this week officially launched its EchoXBorder (Echo Cross-Border) for seamless customs brokerage services across the U.S. and Mexico.
After expanding its presence in Mexico with locations in Mexico City and Monterrey, Echo said it’s continuing to build on its decade of cross-border solutions with EchoXBorder.
"EchoXBorder offers the same expertise and advanced technology that our clients and carriers count on in our other areas of business," said Dave Menzel, President and Chief Operating Officer at Echo. "By applying these assets to customs brokerage, we're able to provide shippers with faster clearance, fewer delays, and lower costs."
EchoXBorder offers nationwide customs brokerage services across the U.S. and Mexico; consolidation, deconsolidation, and inventory control at the border; and integrated customs and freight management for end-to-end control, the company said.
Echo's bilingual experts have deep compliance expertise and provide a single point of contact for proactive communication. Additionally, Echo's technology offers real-time visibility, reporting, and analytics to keep shipments on track.
"This approach to cross-border logistics enables operational gains through integrated logistics management between the U.S. and Mexico," said Troy Ryley, President of Echo Mexico. "Our team has extensive experience with customs brokerage and is equipped to help our clients navigate trade regulations and adapt to market changes."
Ruan names new Chief Administrative Officer
Ruan (CCJ Top 250, No. 30) has promoted Paul Jensen to Chief Administrative Officer. In his new role, Jensen will oversee the company’s Human Resources and Safety functions.
Paul Jensen
His experience is further distinguished by more than 20 years of service in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves, where he served as an officer aboard two nuclear submarines, among other leadership roles.
Since joining Ruan, Jensen has continually advanced through positions of increasing responsibility, including Vice President and Senior Vice President operational roles. Most recently, he has led Ruan’s expansion into cross-border services.
“Paul’s leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our company, particularly in driving the substantial growth of our non-asset service lines," said Ruan CEO Ben McLean. “His promotion is a reflection of both his accomplishments and the trust we place in his ability to develop future leaders and drive a strong, safety-first workplace culture.”
