This week, we’re calling out the myths that shape your rates, your risk, and your runway.
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When the narrative breaks — and what small carriers need to know right now
This week, we’re calling out the myths that shape your rates, your risk, and your runway. From the so-called “driver shortage” to the silent freight volume crash no one’s talking about, we’re cutting through the spin and bringing you real data, real stories, and real strategies. Whether it’s freight fraud, fuel planning, or the mechanics behind tire wear, this edition is all about clarity — not clickbait.
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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The industry keeps pushing the “driver shortage” narrative — but the numbers tell a different story. CDL counts are up, truck capacity is still outpacing demand, and it’s small carriers who are paying the price through low rates, overcrowded load boards, and rising accident risks. This piece cuts through the spin to show how inflated recruiting cycles and poor retention—not actual shortages—are distorting the freight market and hurting the folks who keep it moving.
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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A new policy is converting all Florida weigh stations into immigration screening sites. While some see it as necessary enforcement, others warn it could lead to profiling, delays, and new risks for small carriers operating in the state.
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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Feathering. Cupping. Shoulder wear. These aren’t just tread issues — they’re warning signs. This article helps you read your tires like a mechanic and catch mechanical problems before they become breakdowns.
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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With too many carriers chasing too little freight, bad actors are slipping through the cracks. This article connects the rise in double brokering, ghost loads, and rate scams to a bloated market — and what you can do to protect your operation.
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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The 7th injector plays a critical role in your emissions system — and when it goes bad, it quietly eats into fuel economy and regen cycles. This piece breaks down how to spot the signs before it turns into downtime.
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Your feedback helps FreightWaves understand the needs of the market. By analyzing fleet size data, we can see trends and adapt our offerings to provide better tools, resources, and support for all our readers, from owner-operators to large carriers.
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OWNER OPERATOR ESSENTIALS
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(Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)
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A solid trip plan beats a discount every time. This piece breaks down how aligning your fuel stops with your route — not just the price per gallon — can protect your margins load after load.
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Retail slowdown, inventory pullback — what it means for your loads this week
Freight volume isn’t stalling because of broker games — it’s because freight just isn’t moving. Retailers aren’t ordering, warehouses are pulling back, and the Logistics Managers Index is flashing clear warnings. This update breaks down why that matters for your lane strategy, your rate expectations, and how to stay ahead when everyone else is guessing. Plan based on what’s real — not what’s sitting on the load board.
Listen Now:
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Breaking barriers in trucking — with Rahmel Whatley
In case you missed it, this conversation with Truck N’ Hustle founder Rahmel Whatley is worth a replay. Rahmel breaks down how he built a platform that empowers small carriers and tells the stories the industry usually overlooks. From scaling businesses to shifting the culture, this episode is all about building something real in a tough game.
Listen Now:
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Want more insights like this — built for small carriers, not spreadsheets?
The Playbook delivers boots-on-the-ground strategies, free tools, and no-fluff freight education every week. Join the community that’s helping small fleets run smarter, stay compliant, and win more freight in today’s market.
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Know your number — before you take the load
If you don’t know your breakeven, you’re driving blind. The Playbook Profit Calculator helps you price smarter, plan your week, and protect your margin in seconds. Whether you’re running one truck or ten, this free tool takes the guesswork out of your bottom line.
Use the Profit Calculator
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