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Moore Family Celebrates Milestone
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Last fall, Buddy Moore Trucking celebrated its twentieth year of business. The Moore family has kept their trucking operation rolling along for two decades with the right mix of experience, determination, and respect for drivers.
Published quarterly by the Alabama Trucking Assn., P.O. Box 242337, Montgomery, AL 36124-2337. www.alabamatrucking.org or call 334-834-3983 PUBLISHER Ford Boswell fboswell@alabamatrucking.org CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cindy Segrest csparks67@gmail.com PRODUCTION EDITOR Brandie Norcross CONTRIBUTING WRITER Mark Colson, Tim Frazier ADVERTISING Ford Boswell fboswell@alabamatrucking.org
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Meet Alabama’s Road Team
Alabama Trucking’s handpicked squad of professional truckers is bringing a powerful message of highway safety while showcasing industry opportunity.
ALABAMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT & CEO Mark Colson
Staying Ahead of the Session
VICE PRESIDENT OF SAFETY & COMPLIANCE Tim Frazier, CDS DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS Brandie Norcross
Alabama Trucker sat down with ATA President & CEO Mark Colson for his thoughts on the 2020 Alabama Legislative Session. From medical marijuana to business tax policy, ATA’s legislative mission is to protect Alabama Trucking’s interests.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Cindy York SENIOR ADVISOR Ford Boswell ATA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Steve Aronhalt, Dennis Bailey, Nic Balanis, Joe Black, Gary Bond, Jack Brim, Greg Brown, Will Bruser, Billy Campbell, Dan Carmichael, Fenn Church, J.J. Clemmons, Mark Coffman, Jeff Coleman, John Collier, Rodger Collins, Driscoll Colquett, Brent Cook, Chris Cooper, Bo Cross, Jerry Davis, Ranny Davis, Amy DeFee, Joe Donald, Edmund Doss, Mack Dove, Wesley Dunn, Jack Fricks, Thomas Gaines, Kevin Henderson, Beau Holmes, Steve Johnson, Bryan Kilpatrick, Terry Kilpatrick, Jason King, Mark Knotts, Jerry Kocan, Andrew Linn, Drew Linn, Hunter Lyons, Jeff McGrady, Barry McGriff, Bruce MacDonald, Tom McLeod, Buck Moore, E.H. Moore, Jr., Tommy Neely, Butch Owens, David Padgett, Clay Palm, Kelly Robinson, Kevin Savoy, Bill Scruggs, Harold Smith, Ronnie Stephenson, Steve Stinson, Paul Storey, Harold Sumerford, Jr., Tim Tucker, Bill Ward, Bo Watkins, Wayne Watkins, Taylor White, T.J. Willings, Keith Wise, Daniel Wright.
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President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Safety Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SMMC Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Trucking News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Buyers’ Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 ATA Events and New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Advertising rates are available upon request. An Affiliate of the American Trucking Associations
A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
334-834-3983 • www.alabamatrucking.org 1
From the President
Engaging With Alabama Trucking
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’m asked frequently how members can be more involved with Alabama Trucking. I try to first understand what value their company can receive from us and how they can best plug into our many events, networks and services. Every company is different, but I want to share some helpful ideas of ways our members are engaging with and receiving value from the Alabama Trucking Association.
Mark Colson President and CEO Alabama Trucking Association
‘Collectively, our members can make a difference in their operations and the state’s trucking community through full participation in Alabama Trucking.’
ATA Comp Fund First off, we have one of the best, if not the best, self-insured funds in the country. CEO Kimble Coaker and his staff are leaders in the field and extremely talented at helping you keep your employees safe and lowering operational costs. Fund members are on the cutting edge of our industry, deploying safety and profitability strategies that are hard to implement otherwise. Please visit them at atacompfund.org for more information.
Safety & Maintenance Council Training, best practices seminars, and sharing essential, timely news and resources make this subgroup of ATA an extremely valuable member benefit. Our safety council celebrates the state’s best businesses, drivers and fleet managers with its annual Fleet Safety Awards Banquet, which this year is set for March 23 in Pelham. Also, you should start making plans now to attend the Alabama Truck Driving Championships set for May 29 in Pelham. This event is a great way to honor your drivers for professionalism and safety. Members who participate in the SMMC are much more likely to be safer on the roads and thus more profitable overall.
Connect with Policymakers Recently, we held a Capital Leadership Day in Montgomery. We spent the day sharing the many great stories of Alabama Trucking with leaders of the state’s executive, legislative and judicial branches. A similar opportunity exists in December when we’ll take a contingent of truckers to Washington D.C. to engage with Alabama’s seven members of Congress and two U.S. Senators. This is an effective way to partner
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with the American Trucking Associations to help move our industry forward at the national level. For more on our Legislative mission, see my Q&A article on the subject starting on page 14. Another way you can support our efforts to elect pro-trucking officials is through participating in ATA’s Annual Golf Classic, which will happen Sept. 22 in Prattville. This event is the sole fundraiser for our political action committee, TRUK PAC, which supports political leaders who understand and appreciate the role trucking plays in Alabama’s economy.
Attend ATA’s Convention The 82nd Annual ATA Convention is set for April 23-25 in Destin. If you were to attend only one ATA event this year, this is it. The weekend is packed with informative programs, exciting events, and top-notch entertainment. The agenda focuses on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for trucking. Together, we will find solutions that will benefit each of us, no matter what niche or business sector we serve.
Support the Foundation The ATA Foundation is the Association’s charitable arm dedicated to advancing highway safety, investing in meaningful industry research, and promoting our efforts in safety and economic development. We do this through public awareness initiatives such as the Alabama Road Team, an outreach program that places professional truck drivers from our members in schools to promote safe driving habits amongst teens. The Foundation also provides scholarships to young adults pursuing truck-related vocations. Already, we have awarded more than $6,000 dollars in scholarships to deserving students. Collectively, our members can make a difference in their operations and the state’s trucking community through full participation in Alabama Trucking. We want to be a part of your success. Come be a partner with us as we continue to serve the membership in a variety of ways and advance the industry’s needs and public image. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
In the Name of the Last fall, Buddy Moore Trucking celebrated its twentieth year of business. The Moore family has kept their trucking operation rolling along for two decades with the right mix of experience, determination, and respect for drivers. By Ford Boswell BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Life is a series of events of both fortune and misfortune, a chronological line of peaks and valleys that shapes and molds perspective about things we care most about. Alabama Trucking’s unofficial “Godfather”, E.H. “Buddy” Moore, Jr. co-owner and founder of his eponymously named fleet based here since 1999, has seen plenty of peaks and valleys through seven decades of trucking but he’s always managed to stay in the game — in fact, at 85, he’s still killing it. He and his family of truckers have weathered each experience calmly and effectively to build a body of work that would make any business owner proud. The Moores believe the key to making the most of any experience is to take only what you need from it (good or bad) and push yourself to be a better person, citizen, business owner, employee to provide for your family, your coworkers and employees, and contribute to your community. In the process, hopefully, you become a better person, focused and driven to accomplish whatever it is you want from life. As an iconic figure for Alabama Trucking, Buddy has served many crucial roles for ATA during his long career. In 1985, he was appointed Chairman of the Board during the post-deregulation years and was instrumental in building a strong union of trucking business owners to lead the Association’s growth and influence during that era. Meantime, he served as Chairman of ATA’s political action committee TRUK PAC, only recently retiring from that position last year. After 40 years of rising through the ranks of the trucking industry only to be forced out in a bad business deal, Buddy, with the support of his children, Buck Moore, Susan Kirkpatrick, Alan Moore and Melissa Ethridge, started this small trucking operation with a handful of tractors, a few veteran drivers, and a lifetime of experience. In the ensuing years, the family slowly built the company, waiting for the right time to let things grow organically, add to the operation through acquisition, or just step back and wait out the storm. Over time, their business decisions paid off, and last November, the company reached its twentieth year of business, growing from an operation offering less than 20 trucks to one that today has several hundred employees, five locations, and operates nearly 500 trucks to generate $100 million in annual revenue.
Rise, Fall & Rise Again Buddy grew up in McCalla, Ala., a small farming community west of Birmingham. His dad, E.H. Moore, Sr. and an uncle owned and operated a general store with a feed mill and several trucks to haul feed and hay to local farmers. Moore grew up watching his Dad operate the store, and, along the way, learned the value 4
of working hard and maintaining a business. After high school, Moore enrolled at Auburn University, but after a couple of years, he felt it was in his best interest to return home to McCalla to start his own business. Meanwhile, he married his high school sweetheart, Paddy, in July 1954. The couple remained in McCalla while Moore operated a service station in Bessemer for several years. Sometime around 1959, a customer who’d bought a set of tires from him on credit, showed up with his rig and told Buddy that he couldn’t pay his account and offered the keys to his 1957 R-190 International Harvester truck as payment. “I didn’t know what to do with a truck,” Moore recalls. “My family had done business with Deaton Inc. for many years, so I called James Sizemore, who was its vice president at that time to ask if I could lease the truck to them. He explained that they would only lease the truck if I was driving it. I had reservations about driving a truck, but agreed to give it a try.” And, thus, began a long, successful relationship with Deaton.
Deaton Days Moore drove as an independent operator for Deaton for nearly 10 years and was made highway safety supervisor by then-owner Bud Conaway. The company during that time owned 450 tractors and more than 1,000 trailers, making it one of the largest flatbed operators in the U.S. He continued working his way up the ranks assuming more managerial responsibility with each title change. Eventually, he was tapped president of the company in 1979, shortly after North Carolina-based LTL carrier Old Dominion Freight Lines assumed ownership. “Buddy Moore was a key figure in the continued growth of the company when Old Dominion had it,” Conaway told the Birmingham Business Journal back in 2003. “He was one heck of a trucking operator, and took it to the next level.” Moore led the company for a decade before he was approached with the prospect of buying it. According to Moore, the owners at the time wanted to take the company public and needed additional capital to do so. “They essentially said, ‘Make us an offer, and we’ll give you first shot at it,’” Moore recalls. He assembled a group of investors, and in 1991, bought Deaton. However, there were two factions within the group: Moore’s, which included former Alabama Trucking Association Chairman Harold Sorrells and former Auburn University football coach Pat Dye, who combined for a minority interest while another group held a 55-percent majority. The partnership soured quickly, and ultimately Buddy and his group were forced out of the company he’d been involved with for nearly 40 years. Buddy admits for a time there was bad blood between him and the old partners, and those bad feelings were exacerbated by a legal A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
Father
E.H. “Buddy” Moore — Photo by Cary Norton
Family Ties: From left Susan Kirkpatrick, Buddy Moore and Buck Moore
fight that ensured over an eight-year non-compete clause added into the final settlement. Because of it, Buddy laid low for a couple of years, but quietly set things in motion to get back to trucking with his family as partners. By 1999, the Moores had won a court decision to have the non-compete overruled.
Family Business Finally free of the legal obstacles, the Moores incorporated and set up operations in a small building with a nice yard located off Finley Ave. in North Birmingham. They recruited a handful of veteran truck drivers, some of whom had worked at Deaton as owner-operators, and purchased a small fleet of International trucks from Southland Transportation Group. Susan and Buck each left good-paying jobs to help their father launch the business. Susan left a successful banking career to manage the financials and bookkeeping. She’d spent nearly two decades building an impressive resume in banking with the former AmSouth Bank, now Regions, from 1985 until 2000. There she held positions in corporate accounting and spearheaded various teams on mergers and acquisitions, a skill that would benefit Buddy Moore Trucking as it grew. She now serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for the operation. Buck left a successful 20-year career working in fleet management with a couple of the state’s largest and most successful fleets. He brought additional real-world trucking and fleet management experience to the team. Today, he’s the company’s President and COO overseeing all daily operations. More recently, brother Alan joined the company’s brokerage division in 2016 after retiring from a long career at U.S. Steel, and Melissa remains a shareholder and Corporate Secretary. Lately, Buddy has assumed a more secondary role letting the younger generation lead the way, but everyone admits his influence is still strong. “I guess if you had to give me a title, just say I am the Chief Second Guesser, and leave it at that,” he says smiling.
Moving Forward The company thrives on providing exceptional, safe, on-time transportation services to customers. Its team of professionals is well-trained and the operation is equipped with a fleet of latemodel, fuel-efficient power units and air-ride trailers backed by the latest technology to get shipments secured and delivered safely. In addition, Buddy Moore Trucking’s brokerage services take a comprehensive approach to meet the needs of its customers. By being a single point of contact, the company can provide various types of equipment and methods utilizing a network of partner carriers to meet customers’ various needs. Freight services include flatbed and van truckload, over-dimensional, partial loads, project cargo and expedited. According to Buck, the company has enjoyed tremendous growth over the last decade through acquisition and organic growth. For instance, the Moores bought MSJ Trucking in Opp in 2013, which significantly bolstered dry van capabilities and increased the company’s overall size, stature and reach by 75 percent. Then, more recently, the family acquired three other van carriers to add another 50 percent in growth. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
“These were all opportunities that came to us,” Buck says, “We mostly just kept the drivers and equipment to strengthen our market and customer base. We’re now operating 450 trucks and about 1,000 trailers. One thing we’ve learned about acquisitions is don’t mess with the recipe. You make decisions to buy a business based on historical data and the way the previous owners ran that company, and you must resist the urge to make unnecessary changes. Our success at bringing this all together is a testament to Daddy’s leadership in building the foundation and a mix of experienced fleet professionals and great drivers.” Susan adds, “It used to be because we were a smaller operation, Daddy, Buck and I could all sit in here in his office, and say to each other ‘Ok, we need to do this or that.’ We could affect change more easily. Now, we have 500 employees and drivers, and it’s not as easy to do that anymore. We are strengthening our bench, and really focusing on the level of managers underneath us to carry our message and mission. We are really working to develop a strong group of folks to push us ahead.” Looking back on a long career, Buddy says building his own company from scratch with his family has been a high point. “The Deaton thing was probably the best thing that could have happened to me,” he says. “It pushed me into doing this, and it’s really been great to do this with my family.
Photo supplied by Buddy Moore Trucking.
“Our goal when we started was to one day reach 75 trucks. I never thought we’d reach this kind of success, but we have been blessed with outstanding drivers who have stuck with us all these years. My time as a truck driver is what taught me how to treat employees, especially drivers. I’ve always considered myself to be somewhat of a stern manager, but I have always had a soft place in my heart for the drivers.” Susan agrees. “It’s cliche to say, but we want them to think of us as family,” she says. “We know what it’s like to be a truck driver’s family. Buck and I remember what it was like for our daddy to leave Sunday and be gone all week trucking. Our mama knew what it was like to keep the household running while he was gone. That’s why we have such a deep appreciation for truck drivers. The truth is the trucking business begins and ends with them.” Buck adds a final thought, “Building this company has kept Daddy going, especially after mom passed away. We still meet every morning in his office to talk about the news and what’s going on in the business. Looking ahead, we feel we’ve got the right things in place, and we’re at a good fighting weight. For now, we’re just keeping our powder dry.” 7
ATA’s Dream Team Alabama Trucking’s hand-picked squad of professional truckers is bringing a powerful message of highway safety while showcasing industry opportunity to youth across Alabama. Photos by Kyle Carpenter
By Ford Boswell ENSLEY, Ala. — Richard Pratt carefully parks his freshly washed straight truck right up front at Jackson-Olin High School in Ensley, Ala., a suburb of Birmingham in West Jefferson County. He does a quick walk-around the rig and then heads inside to the school’s main office to let school officials know he’s ready when they are. The veteran truck driver for FedEx 8
A student checks his rearview mirror.
Freight’s terminal in Bessemer is at one of the largest high schools in the Birmingham Public School System with more than 1,700 students to speak to its tenth-grade driver’s education class about highway safety and maybe plug the many job opportunities available in trucking. Within a few minutes, the kids saunter out in small waves, some staring at their phones, others joking with friends as they ease up to the truck. For some, it’s the first time they’ve seen one up close. Of course, A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
the first thing they ask is if Pratt will let them sound the horn, but as he begins his spiel the questions slowly become more substantive and thoughtful. They want to know if it’s hard to drive a truck or how old does someone have to be to drive one. He answers questions in turn. Then, he starts his demonstration, nonchalantly standing a volunteer slightly to the right of the truck about 15 feet down its flank. He then drags a bright orange road barrel about 6 ft. in front of the grill. He adds another barrel at the same distance behind the trailer. One by one, the children climb into the truck to look around — and then, it happens: His point is made in the side-view mirrors for him. They can’t see any of those things from the driver’s seat. Something has changed. He’s won them over. “You’d think teenagers would be a tough audience to reach, but I have met with hundreds of kids since I started doing this last year, and I’ve never lost a class to A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
Richard Pratt delivering his message of safety.
boredom,” he says proudly. “In fact, my favorite moment of my presentation is when a child’s face lights up with that ‘aha moment’ as I set them in the driver’s seat to demonstrate the blind spots that surround a large truck. They don’t see any of the props I placed around the truck. It’s an eye-opener when they realize what truckers deal with.” He now has their attention and works his presentation to touch on a variety of topics from safe driving habits and best practices to basic vehicle maintenance to the many jobs the trucking industry offers. It appears to be an easy sell, but are the kids buying? Kimberly Clark Moss thinks so. She’s a regional site facilitator for GEAR UP Birmingham, a federally funded college and vocational awareness and readiness program. She sat in on Pratt’s presentation at Olin-Jackson and was impressed with the content. “This is such a great thing (Mr. Pratt) is doing,” she says, waiting to take her own turn to step into the driver’s cab. “The children are 9
receiving a powerfully persuasive message about highway safety. I know most of these kids really well, and I can tell you they are tuned in and genuinely interested in what he has to say. It’s quite an effective display.” Pratt and Moss exchange contact info and promise to connect to schedule more area schools. It’s been a good day. Mission accomplished.
Meet the Team Rodney Cosper UPS Freight Trussville, Ala.
Team Mission, History Pratt is part of the Alabama Trucking Association’s highly successful Alabama Road Team, a public safety awareness program that places professional truck drivers from local communities in driver’s ed programs at schools across the state. These individuals are ambassadors for the trucking industry and take a few days each month away from their regular driving duties to speak to civic organizations, classrooms, businesses and media. The team was established 20 years ago to educate the motoring public on how to drive near large commercial vehicles. However, more recently, its focus has been on schools to educate teens about driving safely around big trucks. Road Team “Captains,” as they’re known, are selected on experience, safety records, and presentation skills. They receive training from ATA leaders and independent professional speakers about how to conduct themselves in a classroom and how to deliver compelling presentations effectively. It’s a volunteer position requiring significant support from the driver’s employers and supervisors who allow them to use company equipment and schedule time away from their regular jobs. Captains also donate personal time to connect with educators and civic leaders in the communities where they live. They schedule their presentations directly with school administrators. Once onsite, they follow school policy about interacting with students. Their main message comes from the trucking industry’s “Share The Road” course developed by the American Trucking Associations. Today, ATA’s Road Team is composed of five professional drivers selected for outstanding safety record and an ability to communicate with audiences from many walks of life. Along with Pratt, the current team is composed of Rodney Cosper of UPS Freight, Dan Thompson of FedEx Freight, Lloyd Howell of TCW, Inc., and Charlie Salter of FedEx Freight. Together, these men offer more than 100 years of driving experience and nearly 10 million miles of safe driving. 10
UPS Freight driver Rodney Cosper began driving trucks in 1990 and has received numerous awards and recognitions for professionalism from his employer and other industry organizations. He joined the Road Team in April 2014. His passion for trucking and highway safety is infectious. A father of two teenage boys, Cosper knows the many distractions young drivers face — everything from digital devices to vehicle passengers and others on the road. He says he is excited to be a member of the Road Team so that he can continue to teach others about responsible driving. “I take a lot of pride that I taught my sons how to drive and be safe and courteous drivers,” he says. Cosper says he’s had a great career in trucking and wants everyone to understand and respect what trucking provides for the community. “Without our industry’s contribution to the economy, folks would not have the essential things they need to live,” he says. Lloyd Howell TCW, INC. Birmingham, Ala. From the first time Lloyd Howell sat behind the wheel of a truck, he knew he wanted to drive for a living. He loves the freedom of the open road, the machinery, and the opportunity to meet new people.
The 53-year-old driver for TCW, Inc.’s Birmingham terminal has worked in trucking for 23 years, starting with Birmingham Budweiser as a driver helper making local deliveries and eventually moving into the driver’s seat after teaching himself how to drive a truck. “I just kept hinting around to my supervisor that I wanted to drive,” Howell says. “One day, he pointed to an empty truck and told me to start learning how. The trouble was it was an old 10-speed with a splitter, so it took me a little while. I spent a lot of time just driving circles in the yard until I got the hang of it.” After a few weeks of training, practice and study, he told his supervisor he was ready to sit for his CDL exam. “As soon as I came back with my new CDL, they put me in a truck,” he recalls. “I’ve been at it ever since.” In 2009, he signed on with his current employer, TCW, as a full-time driver. His supervisors soon realized his leadership abilities and asked him to serve as a “Master Coach” for the fleet. Drivers call him with questions and suggestions – or they may just need an outlet to vent concerns. As a Road Team captain, he says he enjoys getting out and sharing his message of highway safety. “One thing that’s served me well since I started driving a truck is that truly care about what I’m doing,” he says. “I care about my job, my employer, my coworkers, and, most importantly, my family. I want to be as safe as possible when I’m driving. I think of myself as a driver in a bubble. “And what that means is, regardless of what is going on around me, I’m going to make sure I’m doing all I can to make those around me safe. It doesn’t matter to me if someone is driving too fast or aggressively, I’m going to do what I need to do to make sure that person gets home to their family in one piece. That’s all I want.” A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
Dan Thompson FedEx Freight Spanish Fort, Ala.
Richard Pratt FedEx Freight Fultondale, Ala.
Charlie Salter FedEx Freight Prattville, Ala,
Dan Thompson is a 37-year veteran truck driver based in Spanish Fort, Ala. He drives for FedEx Freight’s terminal in Theodore, located a few miles south of Mobile. Thompson has been with the company for 30 years and handles a daily route to Birmingham and back. In his 2-million miles on the road, he has never had an accident. He has pulled a myriad of rigs during his career, including flatbed, dry van, twin trailers, hazmat, and even school buses. He is a diverse and crossed-trained driver, and his knowledge of the transportation industry is a reflection of his vast experience. Like other Road Team members, Dan has had plenty of success at the Alabama Truck Driving Championships. He was the overall high scorer at the event to earn the 2016 Grand Champion title. He’s a regular at the national competition competing there in 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2013 and 2011. He is also a man of many talents and interests outside of trucking. He’s a coach for a local elementary school chess club, and a self-described “health nut” who enjoys road biking, kayaking and flyfishing. Last year, he was named the Alabama Trucking Association’s Professional Driver of the Year for his commitment to his work and the community he serves. “Safety is never an afterthought for me,” he says. “The public is counting on me to drive safely under any condition or circumstance; my family is counting on me to return home safely each evening, and my employer and coworkers are counting on me to protect their image. I cannot let any of them down – that’s been my mission my entire career. I now have an opportunity to showcase the trucking industry’s efforts in safety and professionalism.”
As a boy, Richard Pratt had a special knack for identifying over-the-road trucks. He could see one and tell you the manufacturer simply by looking at the side of the tractor. He memorized grills, logos, and cab shapes impressing his family during car rides by correctly naming the truck brand well before anyone else could. “That one’s a Mack,” he’d say, or “Definitely a Freightliner,” he’d announce confidently. He was usually right. He says that was his start of a lifelong love of trucks. In his mid-20s, he landed a job with a floral distributor as a salesman driving stock around in a straight truck from Alabama to Oklahoma. Over time, he eventually started driving long-haul for a local fleet. In 2006, he got on with FedEx driving local routes. and he’s never been happier with his career. His dedication to trucking eventually led him to complete at the Alabama Truck Driving Championships in the early 2000s, where he won the step van class. He’s competed nearly every year since placing or winning his class several more times. During the competition a couple of years ago he heard about the Road Team, and he asked ATA Vice President of Safety and Compliance Tim Frazier about applying. Following the steps Frazier provided, he won a spot. “I couldn’t have been more proud when I got the call that I was on the Team,” he says. “Trucking has been so great to me and my family. I have to share all the good things this industry does.”
Charlie Salter is a third-generation trucker who has worked at every level-ofthe-industry from loading at the dock to owning his own operation in the late 1990s. These days he drives long-haul for FedEx Freight out of Montgomery, and he couldn’t be happier. “I love being a trucker,” he says proudly. “I make great money, see the country, and meet people. It’s nice being out in the world. I could never work in an office every day. This is all I’ve ever done — it’s all my family has ever done. I feel a real bond to the industry.” Salter joined the Road Team in 2018 and immediately hit the ground running. He’s already visited dozens of schools in his area. He says getting named to the Road Team is a career highlight. “I love being a Road Team captain,” he says. “I enjoy being with the kids, and I see my role as an opportunity to help young people become responsible drivers. I also want to show them there are good jobs in trucking. “There are still a lot of misconceptions and old perceptions about this work, but the truth is trucking is a highly technical field these days with all the electronic data available. It takes technical skill to drive a big truck these days. But the rewards are definitely there if you work hard. Some drivers can make six figures (a year) — that’s not an exaggeration.” He says that on one of his first gigs, an assistant principal pulled him aside to shake his hand and thank him. “She told me that what I was doing was important, and I needed to know that the kids are really learning a lot,” he says. “That meant the world to me.”
ATA’s Road Team is free public service for any group or organization that needs a speaker. For more information, contact ATA VP of Safety & Compliance Tim Frazier at 334-834-3983 or tfrazier@alabamatrucking.org.
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Getting Ahead of Alabama Trucker sits down with ATA President & CEO Mark Colson for his thoughts on the 2020 Alabama Legislative Session. By Ford Boswell
state of the Association’s political effort?
Alabama Trucker: Good morning, Mark. Thank you for making time to discuss Alabama Trucking’s legislative and political mission for 2020, and beyond. First up, generally speaking, what is Alabama Trucking’s Legislative mission?
Mark Colson: The state of Alabama Trucking’s political standing is strong. The truth is we’re very blessed to have an outstanding board of directors that supports this industry without hesitation. It’s refreshing to see the individual efforts from our board members to put the industry in the best possible position for success and to ensure that our state is as great as it can be. For someone in my position, it’s a dream come true to work for such a dedicated group. Because of our members’ passion and proactiveness, ATA has enjoyed a streak of recent successes that have set the pace for this organization going forward. These include our unified support of Gov. Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama Plan that supports our state’s infrastructure. That program will create better roads and highways that will make Alabama Trucking more effective and efficient in delivery times while providing better fuel economy. Another recent positive legislative outcome for trucking is relaxed regulations to allow for 18 to 21-year-olds to earn CDLs to drive large commercial vehicles in intrastate commerce. This is a great first step to attracting more young people to the industry sooner, which is something trucking business owners desperately need. Another crucial victory for us was last summer’s legislation requiring human trafficking recognition and prevention training developed by Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) added to all state CLD schools course curriculums. TAT is an amazing program that gives truck drivers the tools and information to identify possible
Mark Colson: Alabama Trucking’s legislative mission is to ensure that policymakers, whether at the federal, state or local level, understand the importance of the trucking industry. Truckers support the state’s economy by generating tax revenue and user fees, and we create thousands of great paying jobs. We are the wheels of Alabama’s economy. If we (the Association, the staff and leadership board) do our jobs on the front end to effectively share with policymakers our stories and demonstrate our value to the state, we will be successful. We have to deliver accurate information to help them make good decisions. So our goal is to make sure they have a complete understanding of how a particular piece of legislation impacts trucking businesses. It is important to remember that the Governor and our elected leaders are extremely busy during this time. Most have a very small staff, and they have hundreds of bills and issues to consider each session. It’s a little overwhelming to consider, and that’s why the role of Alabama Trucking is so important. Alabama Trucker: I’d like to know your thoughts on the current
ATA supports initiatives such as Gov. Kay Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama Bill, which seeks to improve funding for infrastructure improvements. Above, Gov. Ivey (center) poses at a recent press event with a collection of state representatives and policymakers. 14
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the Session
Q&A With Mark Colson
illegal activity which places so working closely with the American many lives in danger. For years, Trucking Associations to make sure ATA and its members have supthat the opinions and concerns of ported TAT. I am very proud of all the trucking industry are included that the program has accomplished. in the debate to form effective I want to add that our standing future policy and regulation. There as a leader in shaping good policy are other issues that will pop up that benefits trucking and the every year — for instance, different public is a testament to my forms of legislation are filed repredecessor Frank Filgo and the garding autonomous vehicles. For members of this Association. Since us, these issues are more about I started last June, I have travelled awareness and making sure legislathe state meeting our volunteer tion doesn’t yield unintended leaders and members to better negative consequences for trucking. understand exactly what their Meanwhile, Gov. Ivey laid out needs and concerns are so I can her Administration’s objectives for Gov. Ivey delivers her goals for the current session during the 2020 State of State Address. better represent their interests in the new Session in her 2020 State the Legislature. of the State Address at the State Capitol last month. Her priorities included a $1 billion bond for K-12, community college and Alabama Trucker: What inspires you most about Alabama university construction projects; additional funding for the Trucking’s legislative efforts? expansion of the state’s national recognized voluntary Pre-K program; creating more crisis centers to stabilize and treat mental Mark Colson: One of the attributes I find most inspiring about health patients; providing funding for the construction of new Alabama Trucking is members’ individual involvement and activism prisons to alleviate prison overcrowding; pay raises for teachers and in the political process, especially at the local level. We’ve all heard state employees; and additional state support for rural health care the saying that all politics is local. Well, members of our board initiatives. particularly, and their employees understand this and have a very I’d like to add that Alabama has a pro-trucking governor and firm grasp on local politics and what their communities’ needs are. Legislature. That’s in large part due to our previous efforts, and that They’re not afraid to pick up the phone and call their legislators. we have so many great dedicated trucking business owners who In most cases, our board members have close working relationoperate their businesses at a high level both in terms of fleet safety ships with their representatives. We have a growing grassroots and operations. network in the state’s trucking industry because our members are I am proud to say that Alabama has a very bipartisan Legislature. well connected and involved in their communities, whether its the I’ve worked with the Legislature for many years on a number of local business chamber, schools, churches and other civic organizaissues, and it has always struck me how well both parties work tions. My task is to find the best ways to utilize and involve this together. In the House, Speaker Mac McCutchen, the leading the network to enhance the mission of Alabama Trucking. House Republican, and House Minority Leader Rep. Anthony Daniels work great together. Over Alabama Trucker: Which in the Senate, Pro Temp Del items are you watching in the Marsh and Minority Leader Sen. current Legislative Session, and Bobby Singleton also have a great what should business owners expect working relationship. These leaders from it? understand the issues important to us because they have ATA memMark Colson: There are several bers in their districts, and they issues we’re watching with great work closely with our Association. interest. There are tax proposals ATA is not a partisan organization, we’re monitoring. Anytime we’re and I find it refreshing that Alatalking about business tax policy bama has such a bipartisan body of issues we’re going to keep a close government, especially at a time watch on those. Also, there has when our country is so divided been significant public debate politically. I know we can work around medical marijuana reguwith both party leaders to get lation. That obviously is a big issue things done that matter for Alabama State House at the national level, and I am Alabama truckers. A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
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SAFETY & MAINTENANCE Safety Insights
Changing Trucking’s Public Image
O Tim Frazier Vice President of Safety & Compliance
‘Our standards must be higher and the expectation to follow these standards should be required.’
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ne thing I’ve learned in the past few years is that anybody can sue for anything. It seems nowadays every other television and radio commercial is an advertisement for legal representation. If you’ve been wronged, hurt at work, run over by a metallic beast, or ran through Aunt Flo’s flower bed, “Call Me, Let’s Get you a Bigger Settlement or It’s Hammer Time” are on standby to get you the “settlement you deserve”. If you have “the big insurance policy” as one advertiser describes, you’re even more in the crosshairs for attempt a big bucks settlement. I can proudly say living in this sue-happy society we operate in today just makes the good companies get better. Most of our members spend thousands of dollars each year on fleet safety and maintenance operations in order that their company is operating at an optimum level. As I travel throughout the state, I am always impressed at the level of quality performance our members conduct their business. From hiring practices, training, equipment technology, regulatory compliance, and the list goes on and on, our members are at the top in providing quality, safe operations. Running a trucking operation in this litigious environment has become the norm, and with that in mind, you should ask yourself: “Where does my company stand in preparation for the possible mishap?” Standard operating procedures should be reviewed on a regular basis to be sure we are current, compliant, and consistent with all requirements we are expected to follow. Then (we hope it never happens), if we are involved in a situation that causes litigation, we are more likely to be able to defend our company in a positive manner. While regulatory compliance has become somewhat simpler and less prone to question due to the technology available, our team consistency keeps us better positioned to face a tough legal battle should it occur. While we can’t compete with the marketing budgets of trial lawyers who place those negative advertisements, your Alabama Trucking Association and its Foundation have made extensive efforts to promote our industry and our people in a positive light. Our TV promotion during the last fall’s CBS Sports SEC football schedule was a huge success. Many of our members and the public have commented on the positive impact these commercials had on our image — and that was our goal. The fact that we can’t compete with TV and radio ads means we all need to do our part in promoting our industry in a positive manner whenever and wherever we can. As much as we would like to, we are probably not going to eliminate all those ridiculous ads we see that liken trucks as “metallic beasts or dangerous behemoths,” but we can definitely work to not provide ammunition to use against us. So, what’s the culture of your company? Is following fleet safety best practices and portraying a positive image the main objective for your operation. Are these ideas promoted at your operation from the top down? Or are they an afterthought when everything else is completed? It’s been my experience and observation that companies that have this support from the CEO and top managers have a much better image and consistently outperform those with lower standards and expectations. Despite the various roles we serve for our fleets, we really are all truckers. We should be proud of that moniker. We serve a vital role in Alabama’s economy. Let’s do our part in making a positive impact on the motoring public, and let’s continue to combat these negative ads through operating at a high level. It’s the right thing to do regardless of who is watching.
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MANAGEMENT COUNCIL NEWS J&M Tank Lines driver named among finalist for national recognition The National Tank Truck Carriers recently announced eight finalists for its 2020 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year award. J & M Tank Lines’ Professional Driver, Darrien Henderson of Mobile, Alabama is named one of those eight finalists. The NTTC created the Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year, PTTDY, award to recognize, pay tribute and promote professional tank truck drivers who provide reliable and safe transportation of all dry-bulk and liquid commodities. The NTTC Safety Committee selects a driver based on his/her ability to operate safely and professionally, demonstrate leadership abilities within his/her company and the candidate’s contributions to the industry and community. To be eligible for this award, a driver must be employed fulltime with an NTTC carrier member or fleet associate member for three consecutive years. All applications are reviewed for their accuracy by the NTTC and signed by the member company’s CEO, Director of Safety and applicant. August 2019, the NTTC opened its application for the 2019-2020 PTTDY award. J&M Tank Lines CEO, Harold Sumerford. and Vice President of Safety and Compliance Dave Edmondson selected Henderson following weeks of internal review and discussion, submitting his application in November 2019, preceding the NTTC’s deadline. Not only did the candidate need to meet the technical qualifications set by the NTTC, but J&M wanted to take it a step further to find a candidate who represents not only the company but also
Four Star Freightliner managers graduate from dealer academy Two Four Star Freightliner sales managers are now graduates of the American Truck Dealers (ATD) Academy. The pair graduated during a ceremony on Friday, Feb. 14 in Las Vegas which coincided with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA)/ATD Show. Utility & Municipal Account Manager Truman Ingram and Western Star Brand Manager Jay Morrison participated in the program. ATD Academy is designed for future operators of truck dealerships and provides the fundamentals needed to operate a successful and profitable business. “These gentlemen are our future,” said Jerry Kocan, Four Star Freightliner Dealer Principal. “We felt it was important to get them the best education available and no one does a better job of preparing future truck dealers than ATD/NADA. As the Dealer Principal, I feel much better about our future because we have invested in the development of our future leadership team.” Ingram, who has been with Four Star for nearly 14 years and is based at the MontA LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
Darrien Henderson
someone who sets an example for professional drivers everywhere. “It takes an elite driver to make it in the tank world,” said Sumerford. “I believe J&M has the best drivers in the industry, and I want to make sure they are recognized for it through programs like the NTTC Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year award.” Henderson and Edmondson attended the PTTDY finalist interview portion in Washington D.C. in February. Following those interviews, Henderson will be invited back to D.C., with Sumerford and Edmondson to attend the NTTC Annual Conference May 3 5 where the grand champion will be announced.
gomery, Ala. location, said Dealer Academy was one of the best learning experiences of his career. “This gave me an opportunity to learn all of the different aspects of the dealership and provided me with new insight,” said Ingram. “I’m thankful to Jerry Kocan for this great opportunity and to my family for their sacrifices throughout this process.” Morrison, who works from the Dothan, Ala. office, is also grateful to his family (wife and two children) for supporting his goals. He has been with Four Star for 8 years and is also thankful for the confidence and investment Kocan has made in him. Morrison pointed out one particular part of the experience that stood out to him. “Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the entire experience was the interaction with my classmates,” said Morrison. “We all represented different manufacturers, had varying levels of experience, worked in different departments throughout each dealership but had the same goal. We all came to learn as an investment in our future.” Ingram and Morrison received their training during five sessions in Washington,
DC and one in Las Vegas. The courses centered on financial management, parts, service, new trucks, used trucks, and leadership.
Truckworx Kenworth named OEM’s TRP ‘All-Makes’ Dealer of the Year Truckworx Kenworth team for being named the 2019 TRP All-Makes Dealer of the Year by Kenworth Trucks. This award gives recognition to dealers with “outstanding TRP parts sales, excellent parts availability and exceptional online parts counter sales.” According to Kenworth, Truckworx significantly increased its TRP sales, overall parts purchases and retail sales in 2019 to help earn Kenworth TRP All-Makes Dealer of the Year honors. The dealer’s focus on uptime provided customers with outstanding retail parts availability. Truckworx Kenworth continued to leverage new technology to nearly double online parts counter sales to enhance customer support and increase retail sales. 17
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National ATA applauds ratification of USMCA Trade deal
American Trucking Associations officials commended Congress and the Trump administration for ratification of the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement, setting the stage for increased free, fair and equitable trade between our three countries. “Trade is central to the trucking industry – 76 percent of all surface freight between the U.S. and our nearest neighbors moves by truck – so the newly ratified USMCA will be a boon to our economy and our industry,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “This agreement will boost both U.S. exports and gross domestic product, meaning more truck movements and delivering measurable returns for our industry.” USMCA is projected to increase annual U.S. exports to Canada and Mexico by a combined $33 billion above the current NAFTA baseline. The agreement is also expected to increase U.S. GDP by $68 billion, stimulating broad sectors of the economy that the trucking industry services, like agriculture and manufacturing. “NAFTA was the oldest of our 17 trade agreements and due for the sorts of modernization that USMCA made,” said ATA Chief Economist Senior Vice President of International Trade Policy and Cross-Border Operations Bob Costello. “With this new trade agreement in place, we can expect to see increases in exports to Canada and Mexico and a measurable increase in our gross domestic product in the years ahead. Because trucks move 70 percent of all freight in the U.S., implementation of USMCA will have direct benefits to the trucking industry.” In 2018, trucks moved more than $770 billion worth of goods between the U.S., Canada and Mexico, and transnational trade between the three countries supported roughly 90,000 U.S. jobs in the trucking industry. Those figures should only increase as USMCA is implemented. “But more than that, it is proof positive that even in this increasingly polarized political environment, our elected leaders can still get big things done for the good of our country,” Spear said. “President Trump, Speaker Pelosi and Leader McConnell all deserve credit for setting aside partisanship 20
and moving this important modernization of our trade policy forward. “We hope that this shared victory will pave the way for more bipartisan solutions on the critical issues facing our country, such as the infrastructure crisis and the skyrocketing costs it’s imposing on the American people.”
AMX acquires Powell Transport Solutions
Alabama Motor Express (AMX), a trucking and third-party logistics company, announced the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Powell Transport Solutions and its affiliates, a trucking asset firm specializing in refrigerated freight. The deal adds 35 refrigerated trailers to the AMX fleet, helping the company deliver against its goal to expand its service offerings to a wider customer base. “We’re on a clear path forward,” said Taylor White, Vice President of AMX. “This acquisition is an exciting step as we bolster our position as a leading full-service, logistics provider in the region. We are very pleased to add Paul Powell, the Powell Transport Solutions employees and their accomplished drivers to our team. Paul has developed excellent relationships with his company’s long-time customer base, and we look forward to building on that base.” “We are delighted to join the AMX team,” said Paul Powell, President of Powell Transport Solutions. “Our focus on customer service and our ability to achieve the highest service standards will be enhanced by the resources and scale provided through AMX.” Powell will serve as the leader of AMX’s refrigerated services division. All Powell Transport Solutions employees and drivers are expected to retain their positions with AMX. In addition, AMX has access to Powell’s customer base, offering them a broad range of truckload and 3PL services. “We’re in the middle of Freight Alley,
where refrigerated freight demands continue to grow,” said White. “Now we can meet the diversified needs of our customers using more of our own trucks, drivers and 3PL services. And we’re gaining the support of a savvy, experienced team that knows temperature-controlled freight, understands its customers and wants to grow with us in the sector. We’re capitalizing on our long-term growth strategy and ready to grow with new opportunities.” The acquisition is the latest in a series of growth-focused decisions designed to broaden the scope and reach of AMX, which began with the recently opened branch offices in Atlanta and Savannah, Ga. It puts AMX’s sister company, AMX Logistics, in the heart of major distribution hubs where it can streamline communications with leading customers and shippers in the region. AMX continues to aggressively add drivers, logisticians and other transportation professionals to accommodate its ever-growing business portfolio. In addition, AMX has invested in innovative technology platforms to ensure optimal service for its customers, carriers and drivers.
Four Star celebrates 20 years of servicing Alabama truckers Four Star Freightliner, Inc., headquartered in Montgomery, Ala., marked its 20th anniversary February 20. The company, led by Jerry Kocan, originally started out with two stores in Dothan and Montgomery, Ala. Over the past twenty years, it has grown from 50 to nearly 250 employees who work at seven locations in Alabama, Georgia and Florida. “Feb. 20, Jerry Kocan 2000 was my first day on the job at what was then Freightliner of Southern Alabama,” Kocan recalls. “My first day was spent in Dothan Continued on page 22 A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020
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and it was an eye-opening experience. I was switching brands (Volvo to Freightliner), my home base (Atlanta to Dothan) with a set of people I did not know nor share any experiences. But I was not going to let my wife and young daughters down.” And he did not. Under Kocan’s leadership, Four Star Freightliner has become a leading medium and heavy-duty truck dealer, having invested millions of dollars in facilities to provide better access and amenities for its customers. The company’s philanthropic efforts are commendable. Thousands of dollars are donated every year to charitable organizations serving communities where Four Star Freightliner has a location. The trucking industry has also recognized Kocan and its company through numerous awards including Successful Dealer of the Year and a finalist for the American Truck Dealers (ATD) Truck Dealer of Year award. “I am so very proud to have made it 20 years and to have the team of people that have shaped this company’s past, present and future,” Kocan said. “It will be a tad bit
overwhelming for me to celebrate 20 years and I could not have done with and for better people.” Four Star Freightliner has invested heavily in training, educating and developing its management team and hopes those efforts will produce strong leaders for the next 20 years. Meanwhile, the company also continues to identify, educate, train and develop Four Star Freightliner’s future leaders.
ATA 2020 Convention sponsors needed ATA Convention Finance Chairman Mark Coffman has set the goal to achieve 100% participation from the board for sponsoring the ATA Convention. At the recent board meeting on Jan. 28, board members committed more than $100k, but ATA president Mark Colson says there’s still work to do to hit the goal. The full convention packet that includes sponsorship levels, agenda, speakers, etc. can be found AlabamaTrucking.org. If you have not done so, please select your sponsorship level today. Be sure to check out the exciting list of speakers and entertainment. It is going to be an awesome convention!
ATA seeking Webb Award nominations A highlight of the convention is the H. Chester Webb Award for Distinguished Service which recognizes the leadership and community involvement by an individual of the state’s trucking industry. Nominations are now being accepted from any ATA member. A panel of prior award recipients will determine the winner and that individual will be announced during ATA’s Annual Convention’s Award Banquet on Saturday, April 25. The official nomination form can be found at AlabamaTrucking.org.
Capital Leadership Days are March 11-12 ATA Capital Leadership Days will be held in Montgomery on March 11-12 for a delegation of truckers to visit Montgomery and interact with leaders from the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches of Alabama’s state government. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the interworkings of Alabama politics and to share our awesome story of Alabama Trucking Continued on page 24
ATRI releases new ‘Top Trucking Bottleneck’ research results The American Transportation Research Institute has released its state “the additional capacity we are providing as part of the ongoing annual list highlighting the most congested bottlenecks for trucks I-440 Reconstruction Project should improve the safety and reliabiliin America. ty of this important corridor, which we know is critical to freight The ATRI 2020 Top Truck Bottleneck List assesses the level of movement.” truck-involved congestion at 300 locations on the national highway No cities in Alabama made the Top 100. system. The analysis, based on truck GPS data from over 1 million ATRI’s analysis, which utilized data from 2019, found that the heavy-duty trucks uses several customized software applications and number of locations experiencing significant congestion – with avanalysis methods, along with terabytes of data from trucking opera- erage daily speeds of 45 MPH or less – has increased 92 percent in tions to produce a congestion impact ranking for each location. just five years, far outpacing the 10 percent growth in traffic conATRI’s truck GPS data is also used to support the U.S. DOT’s gestion for that same time period. Freight Mobility Initiative. The bottleneck locations detailed in this “ATA has been beating the drum about the continued degradation latest ATRI list represent the top 100 congested locations, although of our infrastructure, and thanks to ATRI’s research we can see exactATRI continuously monitors more than ly how decades of ignoring the problem 300 freight-critical locations. The interATRI’s Top 10 BoTTlenecks: are impacting not just our industry but section of I-95 and SR 4 in Fort Lee, our economy and commuters everywhere,” New Jersey is once again the Number 1. Fort lee, n.J. (I-95 and sR 4) said American Trucking Associations PresiOne freight bottleneck in the country. 2. Atlanta: I-285 at I-85 (north) dent and CEO Chris Spear. “This report The bottleneck analysis is an important 3. nashville: I-24/I-40 at I-440 (east) should sound the alarm for policymakers tool for transportation officials as they 4. Houston: I-45 at I-69/Us 59 that the cost of doing nothing is too high, work to maximize the safety and efficiency 5. Atlanta, GA: I-75 at I-285 (north) and provide a roadmap of where to target of local and state transportation systems, 6. chicago, Il: I-290 at I-90/I-94 investments to really solve our nation’s enabling them to ensure the smartest in7. Atlanta, GA: I-20 at I-285 (West) mounting infrastructure crisis.” vestments possible public funds. 8. cincinnati, oH: I-71 at I-75 For access to the full report, including For instance, Tennessee Dept. of Trans9. los Angeles, cA: sR 60 at sR 57 detailed information on each of the 100 portation Assistant Bureau Chief Freight 10. los Angeles, cA: I-710 at I-105 top congested locations, please visit ATRI’s & Logistics Dan Pallme said that for his website at TruckingResearch.org. 22
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with the leaders who make key decisions impacting the state and the trucking industry. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please RSVP to bnorcross@alabamatrucking.org.
ATA Comp Fund announced as ATA 2020 Convention Presidential sponsor The Alabama Trucking Association has announced the ATA Comp Fund will be the Presidential Sponsor for its 2020 Annual Convention happening April 23-25 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort in Destin, Fla.
Fund CEO Kimble Coaker said his group is excited for the opportunity to grow its partnership with Alabama Trucking. “With this sponsorship, we further our initiative to work with ATA to strengthen
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our united efforts not just to our current and future membership, but to the entire industry,” he said. “We look forward to this year’s convention with great anticipation and hope to see all of you there with this focus in mind!” ATA’s largest annual event attracts more than 450 trucking executives and guests for three days of meetings, discussions and events that showcase Alabama’s trucking industry stature as a leading contributor to the state’s economy. This year’s meeting focuses on industry job creation and recruitment, best practices in fleet safety and business management, and the Association’s increasing role in the Legislative process to enact effective policy and regulations for small business owners. Featured presenters include American Trucking Associations Chairman Randy Guillot, Business of Council of Alabama President Katie Britt, and Wallace State Community College President Dr. Vicki Karolewics. Plus, there will be open discussions led by regulatory and law enforcement officials from state and federal agencies and top industry leaders. “We’re extremely excited to host this great meeting,” said ATA President and CEO Mark
Colson. “Alabama Trucking is a successful organization because of its strong support from volunteer leaders and members at large. We are very blessed to have their support, but we’re also grateful for the strong partnership we share with the ATA Comp Fund. We extend our gratitude to their leaders for their Presidential Sponsorship. I look forward to seeing everyone in Destin.” For more information about the meeting, including sponsorship and registration materials, www. alabamatrucking.org.
Two ATA staffers receive promotions Alabama Trucking Association President and CEO Mark Colson announced recently the promotion of two veteran employees. Tim Frazier has been promoted to Vice President of Safety and Compliance after more than a decade with the Association. He has more than 35 years of experience in the trucking industry specializing in fleet safety and maintenance management with stints at Walmart Transportation and the former McGriff Transportation. Frazier has successfully managed some of the largest and safest fleets in the country earning a Continued on page 26
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reputation as a leading fleet safety professional. In 2002, he was named Alabama Safety Professional of the Year by the Alabama Trucking Association’s Safety & Maintenance Management Council (SMMC). He is a Certified Director of Safety as awarded by the North American Transportation Management Institute. Frazier joined ATA in 2011 with primary responsibilities of assisting and advising the president in the operation of varied member services, programs and activities. He manages all SMMC programs and chapters and also serves as the Association’s liaison to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. In addition to his duties for ATA, he sits on the board directors for Alabama Operation Lifesaver and Bevill State Communi-
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ty College Truck Driving School Advisory Council, among others. Likewise, another long-time ATA staffer, Brandie Norcross, has been promoted to Director of Membership & Events and will manage all correspondence with ATA members while promoting and administering various ATA and SMMC events and programs. Norcross holds a Bachelor of Science degree in commerce and business administration from the University of Alabama and an associate’s degree in business from Bevill State Community College Tim Frazier (formerly Walker College). Norcross joined ATA in 2008 as an administrative assistant rising to member relations manager in 2018. Her new role will include growing ATA’s membership base and expanding membership participation and support of ATA and safety council events and programs. “ATA is blessed with a talented and dedicated staff that has served our members diligently Brandie Norcross for many years,” said Colson. “Tim and Brandie are true pro-
fessionals who know this Association’s mission and its members’ needs as well as anyone. Their commitment to Alabama Trucking over their many years of service has returned value to our members ten-fold.”
Hours regs suspended in Alabama due to flooding Due to flooding from excess rains across Alabama this month, Gov. Kay Ivey issued an emergency declaration on February 24, 2020, which automatically triggers a suspension of hours of service regulations for truckers providing emergency relief to flooded areas in the state. Ivey’s declaration says flooding has caused “significant damage to public and private property and may seriously disrupt essential utility services and systems.” Drivers hauling emergency- or disasterrelated materials, supplies, goods and services for affected areas are exempt from HOS regulations. The waiver ends when drivers stop their direct assistance or when the declaration ends. The emergency declaration does not have an expiration date and says it will “remain in full force and effect for the duration of this state of emergency.” Please visit https://governor.alabama.gov for full details.
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PO Box 242337 • Montgomery, AL 36124 • Phone: (334) 834-3983 • Fax: (334) 262-6504
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Signed: ________________________________Date: ________Referred by: ________________________________ CONTRIBUTIONS OR GIFTS TO THE ALABAMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION, INC., ARE NOT DEDUCTIBLE AS CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. HOWEVER, A PORTION OF YOUR DUES ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS ORDINARY AND NECESSARY BUSINESS EXPENSES.
FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY CODE # _________________ Date _________________________
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Schedule of Membership Dues (Effective July 1, 2017)
A. For-Hire Motor Carriers (Membership dues are based on truck count; maximum of $4,000) $500 plus $20 per truck
B. Private Carriers (Schedule based on miles traveled in Alabama) $300 ..............................for up to 1 million miles $600 ..............................for 1,000,000 up to 4 million miles $900 ..............................for 4,000,001 up to 7 million miles $1,200 ...........................for 7,000,001 up to 10 million miles $1,500 ...........................for 10,000,001 up to 13 million miles $1,800 ...........................for 13,000,001 miles up to 16 million miles $2,100 ...........................for 16,000,001 up to 19 million miles $2,400 ...........................for 19,000,000 up to 21 million miles $2,800 ...........................for 21,000,000 up to 24 million miles $3,100 ...........................for over 24 million miles
C. Household Goods Carriers (Schedule based on intrastate revenue only) $420 ..............................for under $100,000 $480 ..............................for $100,001 up to $150,000 $540 ..............................for $150,000 up to $200,000 $660 ..............................for $201,001 up to $250,000 $780 ..............................for $250,001 up to $300,000 $900 ..............................for $300,001 up to $400,000 $1,200 ...........................for $400,001 and over
D. Allied Industry (Those who service and equip the trucking industry) $600 annually
CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT – The amount of dues paid by individual members of the Alabama Trucking Association is confidential information and is not subject to publication. Dues information can only be released by ATA to the principal representative of the member in question, and requests by other persons or parties will not be honored. Members are strongly urged to honor this privacy statement and to not share their confidential dues information with other ATA members or the general public.
2020 ATA Buyer’s Guide
We make every effort to ensure this list is correct. For changes or corrections to your company’s listing, contact
Alabama Trucking Assn.’s Buyer’s Guide lists those companies that have taken an active role in supporting Alabama’s trucking industry by becoming members of the Association. We ask that each time you plan a purchase that you consult this guide and give ATA members the opportunity to gain your business. These companies proudly support your association and deserve your support, as well. ADVERTISING/PUBLISHING
EQUIPMENT LEASING
Randall-Reilly (205) 349-2990 www.randallreilly.com
CB Repair & Trailer Maintenance, Inc. (205) 338-0943
Pitts Media (205) 792-1280 www.pittsmedia.com
AUTO DEALER (SERVICE OR REPAIR) Faucett Motors of Boaz, Inc. (256) 593-7162
BUS SALES & SERVICE Southland Transportation Group (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Transportation South, Inc. (205) 663-2287 www.thebuscenter.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS Rushing Enterprises, Inc. (334) 693-3318 www.rushingenterprises.com
KLLM/Equipment Solutions LLC (205) 515-1478 www.equipmentsolution.com Metro Trailer Rental (205) 985-8701 www.metrotrailer.com Premier Trailer Leasing (205) 680-3184 Reliable Trailer Sales, Inc. DBA Storage Trailers of Alabama (205) 808-0042 www.storagetrailersal.com Southern Truck & Equipment, Inc. (251) 653-4716 www.southerntruck.net Southland Transportation Group (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com Trailer Sales of Tennessee
COMMUNICATIONS/ELECTRONICS A Fleet Equipment Co.
J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com Netradyne (833) 476-9663 www.netradyne.com Omnitracs, LLC (615) 594-7565 www.omnitracs.com Orbcomm, Inc. (703) 433-7763 www.orbcomm.com SmartDrive Systems (858) 225-5551 www.smartdrive.net Trimble Transportation (407) 347-5121 www.mobility.trimble.com
DRIVER STAFFING TransForce, Inc. (205) 916-0259 www.transforce.com Transportation Support, Inc. (205) 833-6336 www.transportationsupport.com
EDUCATION & TRAINING Central Alabama Community College (256) 215-4301 www.cacc.edu J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com
(615) 259-3301 www.trailersalesoftennessee.com Vacuum Truck Rentals, LLC (205) 277-6190 www.vactruckrental.com
EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING Daehan Solution Alabama, LLC (334) 301-3498 Eaton Corp./Roadranger Field Marketing (334) 398-1410 www.roadranger.com
EQUIPMENT PARTS/ACCESSORIES
Corcentric (856) 406-3745 www.corcentric.com Corporate Financial Services, LLC (334) 215-4499 www.cfs401k.com Crestmark Bank 615-620-3509 www.crestmark.com Electronic Funds Source, LLC (615) 777-4619 www.efsllc.com FirstBank (256) 970-1618 www.firstbankonline.com First Horizon Bank (615) 734-6046 www.firsthorizon.com Hancock Whitney Bank (251) 665-1667 www.hancockwhitney.com IBERIABANK (251) 345-9676 www.IBERIABANK.com
Benton & Parker Insurance Services (770) 536-8340 www.bentonandparker.com BXS Insurance (334) 386-3317 www.bxsi.com Caribou Insurance Agency, Inc. (205) 822-7577 www.caribouins.com Cottingham and Butler (563) 587-5521 www.cottinghambutler.com Farris Evans Insurance Agency, Inc. (901) 274-5424 www.farrisevans.com Great West Casualty Co. (865) 392-3752 www.gwccnet.com Hudgens Insurance, Inc. (334) 289-2695 www.hudgensinsurance.com Hudson Insurance Company (317) 810-2038 www.hudsoninsgroup.com Liberty Mutual Group (804) 380-5169 www.libertymutual,com Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance (251) 473-4600 www.lyonfrycaden.com
National Bank of Commerce (205) 422-7111
McGriff Insurance Services (334) 674-9810 www.mcgriffinsurance.com
People’s Capital & Leasing Corp. (205) 856-9354 www.peoples.com
McGriff, Siebels & Williams, Inc. (205) 583-9641 www.mcgriff.com
People’s United Equipment Finance Corp. Joe Morten & Sons, Inc. (205) 664-9374 (865) 392-3844 www.puefc.com www.joemorten.com
Dothan Tarpaulin Products, Inc. (800) 844-8277 www.dothantarp.com
PNC Bank N.A. (205) 421-2764 www.pnc.com
Palomar Insurance Corp. (334) 270-0105 www.palomarinsurance.com
Imperial Supplies LLC (920) 490-6707 www.imperialsupplies.com
ProBilling and Funding Service (256) 736-4349 www.probfs.com
PR Companies (334) 836-1377 www.partnerwiththeexperts.com
Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems 334/798-0080 www.arvinmeritor.com
Progress Bank (205) 527-5692 www.myprogressbank.com
Reliance Group, LLC (205) 504-4841 www.reliancegroupins.com
Paccar Parts/Kenworth (206) 898-5541 www.paccarparts.com www.trpparts.com
Renasant Bank (334) 301-5955 www.renasantbank.com
Reliance Partners, LLC (877) 668-1704 www.reliancepartners.com
ServisFirst Bank (205) 949-3433 www.servisfirstbank.com
TransRisk, LLC (334) 403-4114 www.transriskllc.com
Signature Financial, LLC (423) 290-9986
Turner & Hamrick L.L.C. (334) 566-7665 www.turnerhamrick.com
Southern Truck & Equipment, Inc. (251) 653-4716 www.southerntruck.net Star Truck Parts (205) 324-4681
Thermo King of B’ham-Dothan-MobileMontgomery-Chattanooga JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC (205) 591-2424 (205) 329-8182 www.midstatetk.com (205) 945-8550 www.jptsc.com W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 Transportation Safety Services (334) 279-6083 (251) 661-9700 www.wwwilliams.com www.transportationsafetyservices.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Vertical Alliance Group, Inc. (205) 585-3895 www.infinitiworkforce.com
Bank of America Merrill Lynch (205) 298-7467 www.fa.ml.com/RPM
ENGINE MANUFACTURERS
BMO Transportation Finance (770) 960-6307 www.BMOTF.com
Cummins Sales & Service (901) 488-8033 www.salesandservice.cummins.com
Comdata (615) 376-6917 www.comdata.com Commercial Credit Group, Inc. (704) 731-0031 www.commercialcreditgroup.com
The Baxter Agency (334) 678-6800 www.baxteragency.com
Trustmark Bank (205) 995-4615 www.trustmark.com Wells Fargo Equipment Finance (314) 374-2165 www.wellsfargo.com
INSURANCE Aon Risk Solutions (501) 374-9300 www.aon.com/transportation Aronov Insurance, Inc. (205) 414-9575 www.aronovinsurance.com AssuredPartners of Alabama (205) 823-2300 www.assuredpartners.com
York Risk Services Group (205) 581-9488 www.yorkrsg.com
MEDICAL/DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES Alabama Specialty Clinic (256) 736-1460 www.ascoccupationalhealth.com Carlisle Medical, Inc. (251) 344-7988 www.carlislemedical.com ErgoScience, Inc. (205) 879-6447 www.ergoscience.com J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (920) 722-2848 www.jjkellerservices.com
Safety First-Div. of Behavioral Health Systems (205) 443-5433 www.safetyfirstdrugtesting.com
NON-PETROLEUM FUEL PRODUCTS Pivotal LNG (404) 783-3550 www.pivotallng.com
PETROLEUM PRODUCTS Davison Fuels & Oil (251) 544-4511 Jack Green Oil Co., Inc. (256) 831-1038 Kimbro Oil Company (615) 320-7484 www.kimbrooil.com Major Oil Company, Inc. (334) 263-9070 www.unitedfoodandfuel.com Myers Oil Company, Inc. (954) 938-7211 RelaDyne (205) 384-3422 www.reladyne.com Shell Oil Products US (601) 529-7244 www.shell.com The McPherson Companies (205) 661-4400 www.mcphersonoil.com W.H. Thomas Oil Co., Inc. (205) 755-2610 www.whthomasoil.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Accounting Firms: Aldridge, Borden & Co. (334) 834-6640 www.aldridgeborden.com Katz, Sapper & Miller, LLP (317) 580-2068 www.ksmcpa.com Warren Averett (256) 739-0312 www.warrenaverett.com
Attorneys: Adams and Reese LLP (251) 650-0861 www.adamsandreese.com Austill, Lewis & Pipkin, P.C. (205) 870-3767 www.maplaw.com Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C. (205) 572-1462 www.bakerdonelson.com Ball, Ball, Matthews & Novak, P.A. 334-387-7680 www.ball-ball.com Burr-Forman LLP (205) 458-3393 www.burr.com Carr, Allison, Pugh, Howard, Oliver & Sisson, P.C. (251) 626-9340 www.carrallison.com Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophette, LLP (205) 252-9321 www.constangy.com DeLashmet & Marchand, P.C. (251) 433-1577 www.delmar-law.com Ferguson, Frost, Moore & Young LLP (205) 879-8722 www.ffmylaw.com
(Current as of 02-20-20)
Brandie Norcross at bnorcross@alabamatrucking.org. Fisher & Phillips, LLP (404) 231-1400 www.fisherphillips.com
PR Companies (334) 836-1377 www.partnerwiththeexperts.com
Southern Truck Center, Inc. (205) 226-0880 www.southerntruckcenter.com
Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Co. (251) 476-2744 www.gulfcoasttruck.com
Ryder Vehicle Sales LLC (205) 492-2428 www.usedtrucks.ryder.com
Friedman, Dazzio, Zulanas & Bowling, P.C. (205) 278-7000 www.friedman-lawyers.com
PrePass (931) 520-7170 www.prepass.com
Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com
R C Trailer Sales & Service Co., Inc. (205) 680-0924 www.rctrailersales.net
SelecTrucks of Alabama (205) 322-6695 www.selectrucksofalabama.com
QuikQ LLC (678) 591-4675 www.quikq.com
Thompson Tractor Company (205) 244-7812 www.thompsontractor.com
Reliable Trailer Sales, Inc. DBA Storage Trailers of Alabama (205) 808-0042 www.storagetrailersal.com
Southland Transportation Group (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com
Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC (251) 432-5511 www.handarendall.com
SET Logistics, Inc. Hill, Hill, Carter, Franco, Cole & Black, P.C. (205) 849-6309 (334) 834-7600 www.setlogistics.net www.hillhillcarter.com Soar Payments LLC James M. Sizemore, Jr. (888) 225-9405 (334) 215-9330 www.soarpay.com/moving-companymerchant-account/ Porterfield, Harper, Mills, Motlow, Ireland PA Southern Mississippi Trading LLC (205) 980-5000 (601) 671-3211 www.phm-law.com www.smtmiss.com Speegle, Hoffman, Holman & Holifield, LLC (251) 694-1700 www.speeglehoffman.com Starnes Davis Florie LLP (205) 868-6000 www.starneslaw.com
Other Services: Allstate Beverage (251) 476-9600 Ext. 1231 Ancra Cargo (800) 233-5138 www.ancracargo.com C Cross Logistics, LLC (205) 759-1818
Spectrum Environmental Services, Inc. (205) 664-2000 www.specenviro.com Swift Supply, Inc. (251) 929-9399 www.swiftsupply.com Tax2290.com/ThinkTrade Inc. (866) 245-3918 www.tax2290.com Team One Logistics (770) 232-9902 www.teamonelogistics.com TMW Systems, Inc. (440) 721-2260 www.tmwsystems.com
Corporate Billing, LLC (256) 584-3600 www.corpbill.com
Transportation and Logistical Services, Inc (205) 226-5500 www.tlsincorp.com
Enterprise Holdings, Inc. (205) 823-4599 www.enterpriseholdings.com
Transportation Billing Solutions, LLC (205) 788-4000
W.W. Williams (205) 252-9025 (334) 279-6083 www.wwwilliams.com
TIRE DEALERS & MANUFACTURERS Best One Tire & Service (615) 244-9611 www.bestonetire.com Bridgestone Commercial Solutions (205) 514-8341 www.commercial.bridgestone.com Butler Industrial Tire Center, Inc. (334) 376-0178 Columbus Tire Company dba Complete Tire and Service (706) 321-8133 www.columbustireco.com
Taylor & Martin, Inc. (662) 262-4613 www.taylorandmartin.com
Southland Transportation Group (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com
Trojan Industries, Inc. dba Lyncoach Truck Bodies (334) 566-4330 www.lyncoach.com
Star Leasing Co. (205) 763-1280 www.starleasing.com
Truckworx Kenworth - Birmingham (205) 326-6170 www.TRUCKWORX.com
Transport Trailer Center (334) 299-3573 www.transporttc.com
Truckworx Kenworth – Dothan (334) 712-4900 www.TRUCKWORX.com
Utility Trailer Sales of Alabama LLC (334) 794-7345 www.utilityalabama.com
Truckworx Kenworth – Montgomery (334) 263-3101 www.TRUCKWORX.com
TRUCK DEALERS, MANUFACTURERS
Truckworx Kenworth – Mobile (251) 957-4000 www.TRUCKWORX.com
Continental Tire North America (662) 549-7570 www.continental-truck.com
Action Truck Center (334) 794-8505 www.actiontruckcenter.com
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (708) 557-3406 www.goodyeartrucktires.com
Alabama Freightliner (205) 322-6695 www.birminghamfreightliner.com
McGriff Tire Co. (256) 739-0710 www.mcgrifftire.com
Birmingham Freightliner (205) 322-6695 www.birminghamfreightliner.com
McGriff Treading Co., Inc. (256) 734-4298 www.mcgriffindustries.com
Capital Volvo Truck & Trailer (334) 262-8856 www.capitalvolvo.com
Michelin North America (859) 661-0855 Transportation Compliance Services, USA Drivewyze www.michelintruck.com (228) 872-7160 (780) 461-3355 www.dottrucksafety.com www.drivewyze.com Wilks Tire & Battery Service, Inc. (256) 878-0211 Transportation Safety Services J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. www.wilkstire.com (251) 661-9700 (920) 722-2848 www.transportationsafetyservices.com www.jjkellerservices.com Snider Fleet Solutions (336) 691-5499 JP Transportation Safety Consulting, LLC Vomela Specialty Company www.sniderfleet.com (651) 228-2200 (205) 329-8182 www.Vomela.com (205) 329-8183 Southern Tire Mart www.jptsc.com (251) 457-9915 Repairs: www.stmtires.com Lytx DriveCam, Inc. Big Moe Spring & Alignment of (858) 430-4000 B’ham, Inc. Yokohama Tire Corp. www.lytx.com (205) 780-0290 (317) 385-2611 www.bigmoespring.com www.yokohamatire.com M & N Transport, Inc. (256) 657-5161 Birmingham Frame & Alignment, LLC TRAILER DEALERS/ (205) 322-4844 MANUFACTURERS Max Coating, Inc. birminghamframeandalignment.com C & C Trailers, Inc. (205) 849-2737 (334) 897-2202 www.maxcoating.com Carrier Transicold South (404) 968-3130 Dorsey Trailer, LLC MCG Workforce www.ctsouth.com (334) 897-2525 (251) 652-5244 www.dorseytrailer.net www.mcgworkforce.com Childersburg Truck Service, Inc. (256) 378-3101 Empire Truck Sales, LLC McLeod Software www.childersburg-truck.com (601) 939-1000 (205) 823-5100 www.empiretruck.com www.mcleodsoftware.com Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 Fleetco, Inc. Motor Carrier Safety Consulting www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com (615) 256-0600 (205) 871-4455 www.fleetco.net Eufaula Trucking Co., Inc. Pitts Media (334) 689-8586 Fontaine Fifth Wheel NA (205) 792-1280 (205) 421-4300 www.pittsmedia.com Lazzari Truck Repair, Inc. www.fifthwheel.com (251) 626-5121 Porter Billing Services LLC www.lazzaritruckrepair.com Great Dane (205) 397-4079 (205) 324-3491 www.porterbillingservices.com Mann Automotive Diesel, Inc. www.greatdane.com (334) 792-0456 Power South Energy Cooperative www.mannautomotivediesel.com Gulf City Body & Trailer Works, Inc. (334) 427-3207 (251) 438-5521 www.powersouth.com Rowe Management Corp. www.gulfcity.com (205) 486-9235 www.rowemachinery.com
Southeast Trailer Mart, Inc. (404) 361-6411 www.stmtrailers.com
Coffman International Trucks (334) 794-4111 www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com Daimler Trucks NA LLC (803) 554-4831 www.freightliner.com
Truckworx Kenworth – Huntsville (256) 308-0162 www.TRUCKWORX.com Truckworx Kenworth – Thomasville (334) 636-4380 www.TRUCKWORX.com Volvo Trucks North America (336) 508-4950 www.volvotrucks.volvo.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com Wholesale Equipment Sales, Inc. (256) 423-5990 www.wholesaleequipmentsales.com
TRUCK & EQUIPMENT AUCTIONEERS
Empire Truck Sales, LLC (601) 939-1000 www.empiretruck.com
Insurance Auto Auction, Inc. (478) 319-8574 www.iaai.com
Fitzgerald Peterbilt (205) 379-8300 www.fitzgeraldpeterbilt.com
Taylor & Martin, Inc. (662) 262-4613 www.taylorandmartin.com
Four Star Freightliner (334) 263-1085 (Montgomery) www.fourstarfreightliner.com Long Lewis Western Star (205) 428-0161 www.longlewistrucks.com Mack Trucks, Inc. (678) 201-4770 www.macktrucks.com Navistar (813) 382-3113 www.internationaldelivers.com Neely Coble Co. (256) 350-1630 www.neelycoble.com Nextran Truck Centers (205) 841-4450 www.nextrancorp.com Peterbilt Motors Company (615) 208-1800 www.peterbilt.com Rush Truck Center-Mobile (251) 459-7300 www.rushofmobile.com
TRUCKSTOPS Love’s Travel Stops, Inc. (405) 202-4451 www.loves.com Pilot Flying J Centers (865) 207-3874 www.pilotflyingj.com TravelCenters of America/ Petro Shopping Centers (678) 591-4675 www.Ta-Petro.com
VEHICLE LEASING Penske Truck Leasing (757) 603-2853 www.gopenske.com Southland Transportation Group (205) 942-6226 www.southlandtrucks.com Vacuum Truck Rentals, LLC (205) 277-6190 www.vactruckrental.com Ward International Trucks, LLC (251) 433-5616 www.wardintltrucks.com
ATA
NEW MEMBERS & EVENTS
New Members (as of 2-24-20) Alabama Petroleum Carrier, Inc. Montgomery, Ala. Houston Ingram AMG Driver Recruitment Birmingham, Ala. Cale Webb Asphalt Consultants Trucking, LLC Tuscaloosa, Ala. Danny Gelwix Big Fish Moving Co. Gulf Shores, Ala. Isaac Stooksberry
Bon Secour Fisheries, Inc. Bon Secour, Ala. David Nelson
Decker Truck Lines, Inc. Fort Dodge, Iowa Jeremy Foster
Auto Medic Wrecker Robertsdale, Ala. Lavon Parr
Enterprise Holdings, Inc. Hoover, Ala. James Gardner
Conecuh Sausage Co. Evergreen, Ala. John Sessions
Frontier Carriers, LLC Eufaula, Ala. Joseph Herring
Corcentric Cherry Hill, NJ Brett Peterson
Golden Carriers, LLC Troy, Ala. Jimmy Golding
Phoenix Expedite of North America, LLC Tuscaloosa, Ala. Stormie Miller PowerMoves, LLC Huntsville, Ala. William Hadley Reliance Group, LLC Birmingham, Ala. Don Boatright Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. Mobile, Ala. Rebecca Pitts
Events ATA Capitol Leadership Day March 11-12, 2020 Montgomery, Ala. SMMC Fleet Safety Awards March 23, 2020 Pelham, Ala.
SMMC Spring Courtesy Roadside Inspection TBA, April 2020 Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Alabama Trucker (AT), the official publication of the Alabama Trucking Association (ATA), is an award-winning trade publication highlighting the Association's activities while documenting the business environment of the day. AT is published quarterly and distributed to more than 2,500 trucking executives, regulatory officials, and political figures. Want to reach decision makers at more than 1,500 Alabama-based trucking firms? Consider this: Advertising in AT reaches the most concentrated readership of trucking professionals in the state. Our rates are affordable, but on top of that, your helping ATA send positive messages about one of the state's largest employers.
Contact Ford Boswell at fboswell@alabamatrucking.org or 877-277-TRUK (8785) For More Information 36
ATA Board of Directors Meeting & Officer Installation June 23, 2020
ATA Annual Convention April 23-25, 2020 Destin, Fla.
A
Alabama Truck Driving Championships May 29, 2020 Pelham, Ala.
D V E R T I S I N G
I
N D E X
ADVERTISER
PG. NO.
PH. NO.
ATA WCSIF
BC
(334) 834-7911
www.atacompfund.org
The Baxter Agency
24
(800) 873-8494
www.baxteragency.com
Birmingham Freightliner
IBC
(205) 322-6695
www.birminghamfreightliner.com
Carrier Transicold South
13
(205) 328-7278
www.ctsouth.com
Great West Casualty
3
(800) 228-8053
www.gwccnet.com
International Trucks
IFC
(800) 844-4102
www.navistar.com
McGriff Insurance
26
(334) 674-9803
www.McGriffInsurance.com
Nextran Truck Center
21
(800) 292-8685
www.nextrancorp.com
Palomar Insurance
25
(800) 489-0105
www.palomarins.com
R.E. Garrison
27
(800) 643-3472
www.regarrison.com
Southern Tire Mart
23
(877) STM-TIRE
Southland Transportation Group
25
(205) 254-1821 southlandtransportationgroup.com
Truckworx Kenworth
11
(800) 444-6170
www.truckworx.com
Turner & Hamrick
27
(888) 385-0186
www.turnerhamrick.com
18-19
(205) 755-2610
www.thomasoil.com
WH Thomas Oil Co.
WEB ADDRESS
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A LABAMA T RUCKER • 1 ST Q UARTER 2020