Tag: Yard Dog

Feds Eye Rule Change to EPA Regulation of Glider Kit Semi Trucks

DJ Products Supplies Equipment for Shunting Trailers
DJ Products Supplies Equipment for Shunting Trucks to Move Semi Trailers

EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt recently stated that glider kit semi trucks provide a more affordable option for independent operators and small business owners. Pruitt added, gliders also provide a crucial economic driver to many rural areas. With advancements in technology and increased focus on more environmentally friendly ways of doing business, the trucking industry is facing new challenges and being forced to adapt to new regulations.

Trucking industry businesses of all sizes can improve safety, operate more efficiently, and reduce damage to docks and trailer equipment with the electric yard trucks from DJ Products.

The debate over glider kit semi trucks

While Pruitt feels the EPA lacks the authority to regulate glider kits under a proposed new interpretation of the Clean Air Act, the American Trucking Association (ATA) opposes repealing the Obama era rule for medium- and heavy-duty truck standards for the glider industry.

Glen Kedzie, energy and environmental affairs counsel for ATA, responded to the proposed rule change by saying the previous standard was based on sound data and science. Kedzie went on to say that it is perplexing that the EPA would support the continued growth of the glider kit industry because it produces the most polluting equipment on America’s highways.

Under the Trump administration, the EPA states that the unique way gliders are manufactured makes them exempt from the regulations of new motor vehicles. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) also takes issue with the proposed rule change, stating that gliders produce 40 times more pollution than modern semis.

We offer a line of low-maintenance, energy-efficient yard trucks for the trucking industry to help your business operate safely and profitably. Contact us to discuss your business operation with one of our knowledgeable and friendly sales engineers.

Gobbled Up by the Conglomerates – Decline of the Owner/Operator Model

Our Semi Trailer Mover Makes Fast Work Out of Moving Trailers in your Terminal
Once the Truck Hits the Terminal, Our Semi Trailer Mover Will Make Fast Work Out of Moving Trailers in your Shunting Terminal

For years, independent owner-operators formed the proud backbone of the trucking industry. In the face of growing regulations and shrinking margins, the traditional owner-operator model is on a slow but steady path toward extinction.

Pressure from All Sides

In order to stay competitive, independent truckers are forced to offer increasingly low rates that result in unsustainable margins. Any remaining profit is being eroded by additional expenses for eco-friendly equipment, electronic logging devices and other mandated requirements.

The plight of the independent owner-operator has a trickle-down effect on carriers, whose profitability relies on the model. Hiring drivers as independent contractors lets carriers avoid tax withholding, heath insurance and other expenses attached to direct employees.

What Separates an Owner-Operator from an Employee?

Most owner-operators fiercely value their independent status, but the line is becoming blurred. Over the last year, FedEx has spent nearly $500 million settling lawsuits charging misclassification of company drivers as independent contractors.

Large shippers are not exempt from these questions. Retail giant Macy’s hired drivers as independent contractors through their logistics management company, although the drivers were required to follow a dress code and other company standards. Macy’s ultimately settled a resulting class action suit charging that drivers were deprived of overtime due to misclassification.

Save Time and Money with an Electric Semi Trailer Mover

Time is a valuable commodity in the transportation industry. Maneuver trailers quickly and safely with an electric semi trailer mover from DJ Products. Visit our website and use the convenient online chat feature for immediate assistance from one of our friendly and knowledgeable sales engineers.