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Dec 2021

All-Risk coverage a must-have for cross-border shipping

Canadian freight brokerage overcomes challenges of shipping in and out of Mexico Cross-border shipping is a tricky business, there’s no getting around it. But with a reliable and knowledgeable partner at your side — and proper insurance protecting your products — your cross-border anxieties will greatly diminish. Mark Vickers, Reliance Partners’ executive vice president of international logistics, recently connected with Ryan Jones, president at NUAGE Logistics […]

Dec 2021

Central Freight Lines’ closure puts quality drivers on market

Reliance Partners: Winning companies will make driver experience more favorable LTL carrier Central Freight Lines met its demise earlier this week in what many have said was a long time coming after a series of misfortunes. The biggest trucking company shutdown since Celadon’s closure in December 2019, Central Freight similarly leaves 2,100 workers, including 1,325 drivers, without a job just a week before Christmas. For the drivers, […]

Dec 2021

Sign-on bonuses ‘double-edged sword’ for recruiting and retention

Bonuses benefit drivers but can leave carriers spinning their wheels Is it worth jumping ship for a sign-on bonus at another company? Truckers sure think so — and with good reason. Sign-on bonuses have been getting bigger and bigger, but as carriers begin offering similar perks, at what point do cash incentives lose their luster? That’s the topic of discussion on this episode of WHAT THE […]

Dec 2021

Risk knows no bounds when it comes to cross-border shipping

Customers appreciate the 411 on Mexican cargo liabilities Cross-border shipping involves numerous — and often hidden — risks. For instance, many U.S. shippers are surprised to learn that they’re on the hook for cargo losses that occur all too frequently south of the border. Mark Vickers, Reliance Partners’ executive vice president of international logistics, connected with Jose Minarro, managing director of Sunset Transportation, to discuss the ever-present […]

Nov 2021

Industry urged to join workforce development programs

‘The idea of workforce boards is to determine what industries or sectors you want to support, and then allocate funds to help create a workforce to support those industries’ If there’s one thing the trucking industry is lacking, it’s self-promotion. That’s the opinion of Andy Owens, CEO of A&M Transport, who encourages industry leaders nationwide to take leadership roles on local workforce development boards. The pandemic […]

Nov 2021

Combining insurance and FreightTech to hurdle any cross-border issue

Risk mitigation involves both insurance and technology solutions They say the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, but in terms of shipping, this is definitely not the case for goods bound for Mexico. Cross-border shipping carries inherent risks that often can’t be avoided. From differing rules and regulations to theft, it’s best to equip your business with partners who know the […]

Nov 2021

F3 Tech in Action: Taming the cargo insurance challenge

Truck brokers can ease the burden of insuring both LTL and truckload cargo while saving time and money This recap is from Day 3 of FreightWaves’ F3 Virtual Experience. TECH IN ACTION TOPIC: Per-load cargo insurance coverage simplified with Reliance Partners and EZ Loader. DETAILS: Trucking insurance specialist Reliance Partners and freight brokerage transportation management software company EZ Loader want to level the playing field […]

Trucking offers many reasons to be thankful

Industry’s accessibility creates countless opportunities for those willing to put in the work It is hard to believe that it’s been nearly two years since the onset of the pandemic. Through all of the chaos and fears of the unknown, what’s even harder to believe is how the trucking industry overcame such adversity. Here we are, nearing the end of 2021, and we’ve collectively found […]

Nov 2021

Tips for boosting driver retention

With drivers having the upper hand at the bargaining table, it’s up to fleets to make the next move It’s one thing to recruit quality drivers but keeping them is the real challenge. The industry has long dealt with a driver shortage that seems to have only worsened since the beginning of the pandemic. Now more than ever, drivers have the upper hand at the […]

Oct 2021

Check and double-check blind spots

Constantly scan mirrors to keep tabs on surrounding vehicles One second the car is there, the next it’s out of sight. It’s the highway’s greatest magic trick, the ability to hide a car in plain sight. Regardless of how many times you’ve witnessed the act, blind spots can fool even the most cautious of drivers on the road. Brian Runnels, Reliance Partners’ vice president of safety, […]

Oct 2021

Unannounced hazmat inspections reveal risks, unsafe practices

Carriers hauling hazardous materials and dangerous goods must ensure safety of drivers and the public The results are in: Hazmat violations continue to be a problem. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has released the findings of its unannounced-inspection initiative this summer, which cracked down on safety issues related to the transport of hazardous materials and dangerous goods (HM/DG) as part this year’s Road Blitz. […]

Oct 2021

Reliance Partners recaps Tank Truck Week

Safety expert Brian Runnels reports from Dallas Conference season is in full swing this fall as the trucking industry welcomes the return of in-person events. All eyes were on Dallas this week as trucking leaders convened for Tank Truck Week (TTW). Hosted by the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC), the conference is North America’s largest tank truck event, with a full-slate of industry-focused seminars, workshops and networking […]

Oct 2021

It benefits to have a partner in safety

Understanding carriers’ business ‘and where they’re wanting to go gives us a huge advantage’ Reliance Partners’ professional safety team proactively helps motor carriers resolve compliance-related issues and, in turn, exceed risk-management expectations. The rapidly growing commercial insurance agency goes above and beyond what’s expected of trucking insurance brokers, providing safety consulting on retainer, consisting of risk assessments, driver meetings, mock DOT audits and CSA score reviews and […]

Sep 2021

Railroad crossings require extra precautions, good judgment

Beware of elevated crossings that can leave you stranded on the tracks Following a fatal collision between a tractor-trailer and freight train in Houston earlier this month, drivers are urged to take extra precautions when approaching railroad crossings. The accident occured when a Kansas City Southern train collided with a truck, resulting in the death of the truck driver, the company said in a statement. The […]

Sep 2021

Develop a blueprint for policies and procedures

Documenting policies and procedures helps build the foundation of any safety program Teams that don’t follow a well-executed game plan aren’t expected to succeed. The same goes for trucking companies without safety policies in place. Don’t be surprised when trouble comes your way. Nothing great is built without a blueprint, which is why it’s important for motor carriers to put pen to paper as to […]

Sep 2021

A true safety culture gives everyone a voice

All employees should be ‘empowered to bring problems to the forefront and offer solutions’ We’ve seen them all over the place, companies slapping a nice-sounding safety message on their trailers. When a company claims safety to be its top priority, we trust their word to be golden. But are these carriers actually adhering to their mission statements? Only they can answer that question. Robert Kaferle, Reliance […]

Sep 2021

Reliance Partners celebrates 6th-straight year on Inc. 5000 list

Agency places No. 1,559 in prestigious rankings Reliance Partners, one of the nation’s fastest-growing commercial insurance agencies in the transportation and logistics space, has once again earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list. The Chattanooga, Tennessee-based company celebrates its sixth consecutive year on the list of the fastest-growing privately held firms in the U.S., ranking No. 1,559 this year for its 302% three-year growth. “When you […]

Aug 2021

Taking the stand: Mock trials prep motor carriers for courtroom defense

On the road and in court, the best offense is a good defense No motor carrier anticipates a deadly accident will occur on its watch, but that tragic reality befalls many every year. Even more trouble awaits trucking companies caught off guard in the courtroom, leaving them on the hook for potentially hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. Many trucking companies fall victim at […]

Aug 2021

Growing numbers of teens see trucking as attractive career

One school has put into practice Next Gen’s mission, creating one of the nation’s first high school truck driving programs Trucking’s age-old problem has been just that — the age of its drivers. The median age of a truck driver is 46, which is five years older than the national average for all workers. As more and more drivers — especially those in their 60s and 70s, […]

Aug 2021

Reliance Partners Appears on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Privately-Held Companies for the 6th Consecutive Year

Inc. Magazine Reveals Annual List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies—the Inc. 5000 Chattanooga, Tenn – August 17, 2021 – Inc. magazine today announced that Reliance Partners is No. 1,559 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. This is Reliance Partners’ sixth consecutive year to make the list, with a three-year growth rate of 302%. The list […]

Aug 2021

Brake Safety Week begins Aug. 22

Inspectors will slam the brakes on out-of-service violations Coinciding with Brake Safety Awareness Month, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance has slated Brake Safety Week for Aug. 22-28, meaning drivers and carriers have just a few more days to tighten up on brake safety. Over the seven-day period, inspectors will conduct North American Standard Inspections of commercial motor vehicles with a focus on brake systems and components, removing any inspected […]

Aug 2021

Reliance Partners ‘bullish’ on Laredo, Texas-Mexico corridor

US manufacturers see potential for greater trade with Mexico There’s much to gain from the nearly $2 billion in trade flows across the U.S.-Mexico border every day. Pacific trade lanes remain stifled by west coast port congestion, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the trade war between the United States and China. These past-year developments have led many American companies with outsourced operations to set up shop much […]

Aug 2021

Brokers and carriers pursue higher margins on domestic and cross-border freight

Shipper’s interest insurance mitigates risk in hauling high-value, highly targeted shipments Today’s risk-averse transportation landscape inhibits profit maximization for many companies eager to gain an advantage. It only makes sense that shipping a high-value commodity would bring in more revenue, but the risks involved often scare away carriers and brokers from hauling these loads in places around the Mexican border, creating problems for all stakeholders […]

Jul 2021

Above-average hurricane season nearing peak months

‘Prevention is the best thing you can carry with you as foresight and common sense to not put yourself in a dangerous situation’ 2021 hurricane season outlook The Atlantic waters are heating up, and peak hurricane season is almost upon us. Carriers and shippers should be on alert this hurricane season, as tropical storm activity is expected to be above average. Between 1991 and 2020, […]

Jul 2021

Safety check: It’s better to be proactive than reactive

Developing a safety culture isn’t easy, but establishing one sure does make your job a lot easier down the road Developing a safety culture isn’t easy, but establishing one sure does make your job a lot easier down the road. Reliance Partners Director of Safety Robert Kaferle continues the conversation from his previous article, Safety check: No carrier thinks it’s ‘unsafe’, further explaining the importance of proactive […]

Jul 2021

Cross-border consulting helps navigate USMCA ups and downs

Where does trade agreement stand after 1 year? This July marks the first anniversary of the adoption and implementation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The agreement has brought about new opportunities for cross-border trade; is your organization taking advantage of these changes? With close to $2 billion in trade flowing across the U.S.-Mexico border daily, it’s imperative that logistics service providers know what’s at stake. Reliance […]

Jul 2021

Safety check: No carrier thinks it’s ‘unsafe’

With tight deadlines and big money on the line, it’s easy to see why some carriers are led astray by service-based metrics, placing driver performance in the back seat. It’s safe to assume that the thought of endangering other motorists almost never crosses truckers’ minds when they start their day, but it’s likely that many are inadvertently rolling the dice each time they climb up […]

Jul 2021

Trust your instincts when GPS leads you astray

Maps will never steer you in the wrong direction The semi truck may be king of the road, but its dominion only reaches so far; there are certainly places it doesn’t belong. However, with time crunches, traffic, construction work and other constraints along the way, many commercial drivers opt for the fastest route even if it means straying far off the beaten track. Brian Runnels […]

Jun 2021

Accepting constructive criticism first step in mitigating risk

Willingness to make improvements one of the smartest traits a trucker or motor carrier can possess Most people don’t like to be told that they’re doing things wrong — but don’t want to be caught messing up either. Constructive criticism is not always easy to hear, but just like applying hydrogen peroxide to a wound, the pain is for the best. The same applies to […]

Jun 2021

Safety expert reflects on emotional toll of truck accident

‘It changed a lot about the way I drove and my thoughts on distracted driving’ One mistake behind the wheel can lead to devastating consequences to you and those around you. Semi truck accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence on our nation’s highways. Many drivers won’t admit it, but it’s easy for those who have managed to evade these harrowing events to lull themselves into […]

Jun 2021

Flatbed steady amid lumber shortages, construction tightness

Flatbed truckers still have options during ‘lumber crisis’ House construction nationwide is being constrained by the tight supply and mile-high price of lumber, but this squeeze has not been felt by the flatbed truckers who haul these loads. Reliance Partners CFO Thom Albrecht said the lumber shortage can be viewed from both a glass half empty and full perspective, depending on who you ask in the […]

Jun 2021

DRIVE-Safe Act proponents call for greater trust in trained younger drivers

Legislation proposes two-step apprenticeship and hundreds of hours of training on trucks equipped with latest safety technology Talks of labor shortages and truck driver safety are common themes at industry conferences, in newsletters, editorials and even watercooler conversations — with good reason. But it’s almost as if labor and driver safety were inversely related: On one hand, relaxing regulations to make trucking easier to enter […]

Modernization of Cross Border Trade event returns to Laredo

Cross-border summit to talk international trade, cargo visibility and B-1 visa drivers After going virtual last year because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Modernization of Cross Border Trade annual conference returns Thursday as an in-person event in Laredo, Texas. Borderless Coverage powered by Reliance Partners and the Laredo Motor Carriers Association are hosting the fourth-annual event, which aims to highlight U.S.-Mexico trade while having a […]

May 2021

Best to have mock audits uncover your flaws than the feds

It’s hard to know just when the feds will knock on your door. It’s best to clean up before they show up Poor-performing motor carriers shouldn’t be surprised when the feds come knocking at their door, but complacency brews trouble too. Unexpected inspections can land even the best motor carriers in hot water if violations are brought to light. That’s why it’s best to clean […]

May 2021

The smarter way to secure shipper’s interest coverage

Don’t surpass your cargo limits for just one shipper. Rather, rely on UBI shipper’s interest coverage when the need arises Semi trailers are able to haul a vast array of commodities. Though more or less identical, the trailers that crisscross our highways carry freight of all shapes, sizes and values. Loaded trailers may be indistinguishable from one another, but not to insurance policies. Trucking companies […]

May 2021

Stay Alert and Slow Down Through Work Zones

Tired drivers and intoxicated drivers cause equally disastrous accidents Excerpt: Reliance Partners’ Brian Runnels and Mark Barlar speak from their driver and State Patrol experience on the dangers that speed, distractions and fatigue present in construction zones. Large trucks are involved in one-third of all fatal crashes in work zones, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The agency issued a press release […]

Apr 2021

Check lights and logs before next week’s safety blitz

Don’t let a dead light bulb or preventable logbook violation ruin your day With the International Roadcheck just a week away, now’s your last chance to dot your i’s and cross your t’s in and around your truck and trailer. Most vehicle violations are easily preventable — if proper precautions are routinely taken. Reliance Partners Director of Safety Brian Runnels provides a few simple tips to ensure […]

Apr 2021

Insurance basics: Selecting the right auto liability policy

It’s vital to speak with an agency that has experience working with new entrants to the trucking industry Near the top of the to-do list for any trucking company is securing basic auto liability coverage before hitting the road. For those without trucking experience, understanding how to get the right insurance can be daunting. Reliance Partners Chief Sales Officer Brandon Richards reassures new entrants that insurance […]

Apr 2021

Truck transportation job growth — cause for celebration or concern?

“With driver schools still not at full capacity, the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse still impacting the availability of drivers, and the overall aging of the demographics, many fleets are fighting an uphill battle.” March’s truck transportation employment figures can be viewed as a glass half full or half empty — both perspectives have merit. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), total jobs in […]

Apr 2021

Insurance basics: Hauling intermodal

Connect with an insurance agent who understands UIIA endorsements Planning to haul intermodal containers and chassis? Remember to secure basic coverages before heading to ports or railheads. Reliance Partners Vice President of Sales Arvin Castellanos and Senior Account Manager Kelly Teg detail the insurance basics involved in intermodal hauling. Intermodal refers to the transporting of freight via an intermodal container using more than one mode of transportation: ship, […]

Apr 2021

The perspective of a female owner-operator

New perspectives are learned through conversations. Camaraderie can also be established through discussing similarities in upbringing and viewpoints, discovering that many daily challenges transcend gender Trucking has historically been and continues to be a male-dominated industry, but a significant number of women have found their niche in a “man’s world.” Commercial trucking in the 21st century attracts drivers from all walks of life; wealth creation’s […]

Mar 2021

Reliance Partners offers usage-based insurance for freight industry

Reliance Partners to provide usage-based insurance for domestic, cross-border and international freight Today’s fast-paced freight landscape demands all things be instantaneous. Thankfully, advancements in technology and innovations in approach have made keeping pace easier than ever. Utilization- or usage-based insurance (UBI) presents a new way of quoting and securing coverage, and this model has made its way into the transportation and logistics sector with Reliance Partners at […]

Mar 2021

Spring cleaning: Time to tidy up your truck

Remember that slips, trips and falls aren’t just outside dangers Let’s face it, your truck probably needs a deep clean. Perhaps it was one of your New Year’s resolutions, but after a long and relentless winter, a truck caked in grimy layers of salt and dirt may not be the only mess on your hands. A victim of cabin fever, you’ve come to the realization […]

Mar 2021

Stay alert for signs of sex trafficking at truck stops

Modern-day slavery often goes undetected in plain sight Though perpetuated in the shadows of society, human trafficking is a $32 billion industry worldwide. Truck stops offer rest and amenities to truckers and general motorists after a long day’s drive, but they can also be hubs for sex traffickers and their victims. As teenagers and boys and girls are transported from city to city, truck stops serve as […]

Mar 2021

High winds pose invisible threat

“You can’t put yourself in a situation where there’s 80-mile-an-hour gusts with an empty trailer” Semi-trucks and sailboats have a few things in common. The gleaming aluminum and steel trailers that dot the highways parallel ships at sea with large, white sails; both chart their courses, head for open routes and find themselves at the mercy of the winds. Although large and monumentally heavy, tractor-trailers, […]

Feb 2021

Don’t skate past safety precautions on icy roads

Icy roads can overpower even the most experienced drivers It can happen in an instant — you’ve hit a patch of ice and lose control of your vehicle. As you instinctively press the brakes to no avail, the sudden loss of traction leaves you feeling helpless. Hopefully no one’s in your path as you careen down the highway. Frigid weather can precipitate precarious situations like […]

Feb 2021

Reliance Partners Acquires Borderless Coverage Insurance Agency

Chattanooga, TN – Reliance Partners, an insurance agency focused solely upon the commercial transportation and logistics industries, today announces the acquisition of Borderless Coverage, an Ohio-based agency specializing in North American Cross Border Supply Chain & Insurance. Between 2015 and 2020 Reliance Partner’s transportation and logistics book expanded from approximately $15 million in premiums to $200 million, primarily through organic growth, and today’s Borderless acquisition […]

Feb 2021

Beyond insurance, carrier vetting crucial to protecting freight brokers

Manage risks proactively through due diligence Freight brokers don’t haul freight, but they do play a crucial role in moving it. Moreover, they can find themselves on the hook for in-transit liabilities if they’re not careful. Those considering a career as a broker should not only know the ins and outs of freight, but should also know how to protect themselves from the risks associated […]

Feb 2021

Insurance basics: Becoming an owner-operator

Owner-operators on the hook for most insurance expenses It takes a great deal of confidence and a little bit of know-how to become an owner-operator. Ditching the fleet life for a sweet life on your own can be liberating for drivers possessing an autonomous mindset. But traversing the freight landscape solo has its own set of challenges, too. In fact, being at the helm of […]

Jan 2021

Don’t slip up on these safety basics

As the driving workforce ages, minor injuries suddenly become major risk factors If drivers were to break down their day by individual events, in how many instances would they think they’re at risk of injury? Behind-the-wheel safety is important, as it’s where the majority of headline injuries occur, but what about the less conspicuous aspects of a trucker’s job? Tasks that require lifting, climbing and […]

Jan 2021

Daily Infographic: How to chain your tires

Annual Clearinghouse queries are easier than you think

Newly hired drivers should sign a limited query consent form as part of orientation process Jan. 5 — the deadline for conducting annual Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse queries on all existing drivers — has come and gone. Did you get the forms in on time? The Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse requires motor carriers to keep tabs on drivers, involving a bit of paperwork and inquiry […]

Jan 2021

CDL fraud could rise under relaxed requirements

Rule change may net more drivers for the industry but will the propensity for fraud increase as well? Tractor trailers and automobiles may share the roadways, but not everybody has the right to drive in the proverbial truck lane. Obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a rite of passage for any driver eager to traverse the wide world of logistics. However, this rite isn’t […]

Jan 2021

Are your driver trainers road-ready as well?

Effective training requires a range of skills The trucker life isn’t for everyone and the same is true for trainers. Arguably, a driver’s performance on the road is a reflection of the quality of training he or she receives, which is why it’s important for carriers to make equally sure that the ones holding the clipboard are road-ready as well Reliance Partners’ Director of Safety […]

Jan 2021

Missi Shelton Promoted to Vice President of Customer Service, National Accounts

CHATTANOOGA, TENN., January 11, 2020 – Reliance Partners (Reliance), the nation’s fastest-growing, privately-held commercial insurance agency for the transportation and logistics industry, today announced the promotion of Missi Shelton to Vice President of Customer Service, National Accounts. Missi will lead Reliance’s National Accounts customer service division, focusing on the agency’s largest transportation and logistics clients. She will drive Reliance’s mission forward, ensuring that Reliance Partners’ […]

Dec 2020

How to chain your tires

See Video » ’Tis the season for snow and ice. Winter is a lovely time of year to admire tranquil snowfalls and to cozy up next to the fireplace. For truckers, however, this time of year is far from magical. Whiteout conditions bring about white-knuckled driving for those darting across the nation’s frigid roadways. To safely trek in winter weather, truckers regularly depend on tire […]

Dec 2020

Prolonged uptick in truck and trailer orders ‘cause for concern’

Reliance Partners CFO Thom Albrecht warns that the bullish parts of freight cycles for carriers are getting shorter in duration on the upside and nastier and longer on the downside. He notes that a shift could be abrupt and felt significantly by carriers when a lot of new equipment is delivered to the market. Such deliveries may occur at a time when consumers resume spending on […]

Dec 2020

Drivers too are culpable for industry turnover

A relationship is defined as the way in which two or more people are connected. In terms of trucking, you’d be hard-pressed to find one more important than the relationship between a driver and motor carrier. That is why driver turnover is always of great concern for the trucking industry. For whatever reason, whether it be in search of better pay or shorter hauls, a […]

Nov 2020

It’s better to be safe than sorry with cargo tank leaks

One look at the bill of lading is all you need to understand why fuel hauling can often be a white-knucke experience. Referred to as “rolling bombs” in the past, cargo tank trailers can be deadly if handled improperly. Hauling flammable liquids is no easy task. That is why Mark Barlar, Reliance Partners’ director of risk services, urges hazmat truckers to continue sharpening their safety skills […]

Nov 2020

Knowing post-accident protocols can save you a bundle

It’s that time of year again — the time when frigid temperatures and icy conditions can compromise the roadways. Jackknives, rollovers, braking issues and other truck-related accidents are prevalent during winter weather, so it’s best to take extra precautions heading into the colder months. However, semi-truck accidents happen at any time of year for any number of reasons, so it’s wise to drive safely and […]

Nov 2020

Governor Lee, Commissioner Rolfe Announce Reliance Partners, LLC. To Expand Chattanooga Headquarters

$1.3 million investment in property and data equipment Expansion will create more than a hundred new jobs in Hamilton County NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Reliance Partners, LLC. officials today announced the company will invest $1.3 million to expand its Chattanooga headquarters. The investment will create more than a hundred new headquarter function […]

Nov 2020

Despite drop in violations, fleets shouldn’t stray from safety

One could argue that the COVID-19 pandemic has inadvertently made the roads safer as driver violations have decreased this year. However, as the hardworking men and women of the logistics industry continue to make sacrifices, safety shouldn’t be on the chopping block. The good news: During its annual Safe Driver Week in July, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) enforcement officials issued warnings and citations to just 71,343 […]

Nov 2020

Conquering mountains is a downhill battle

For truckers, conquering mountains and steep terrain is a downhill battle. And yes, things can go downhill very fast when an 80,000-pound loaded truck experiences brake failure, or worse, when a driver makes a serious error. Drivers who find themselves at the mercy of momentum quite literally receive a crash course in the laws of physics as their speed becomes uncontrollable. Thankfully, some of the […]

Oct 2020

Reliance Partners acquires fellow Volunteer State insurance company

Fast-growing Reliance Partners is growing with the acquisition of another Tennessee-based insurance carrier focused on transportation, Capacity Southeast Agency. Reliance made the announcement Thursday. Reliance is in Chattanooga; Capacity Southeast is in Nashville. Debra Brake, the president of Capacity Southeast, will join Reliance, as will its senior vice president, Jessie Merritt. Brake will be senior vice president of sales. Meritt will be vice president of […]

Oct 2020

Don’t get wrapped up in drug test confusion

Substance abuse is a serious issue in the trucking industry, but tracking and reporting it is equally challenging. While motor carriers, medical review officers (MROs), substance abuse professionals (SAPs) and consortium/third-party administrators (C/TPAs) do their best to crack down on the use of illegal substances, all parties must understand how to conduct proper testing and recordkeeping. Marijuana takes the heat for contributing heavily to the […]

Reliance Partners Acquires Assets of Capacity Southeast Agency

Chattanooga, TN – October 29, 2020 – Reliance Partners today announces an acquisition of the assets of Capacity Southeast Agency, a transportation-focused insurance agency based out of Nashville, TN. Capacity Southeast Agency’s President, Debra Brake, and Senior Vice President, Jessie Merritt, will also join Reliance Partners’ team. Debra Brake has more than 30 years of transportation insurance experience and will be joining Reliance Partners as […]

Oct 2020

K9 co-pilots: What to consider before before hitting the road with Fido

Dogs have long held the title of “man’s best friend” as they’ve accompanied workers for centuries. This is true for generations of truckers who’ve relied on K9 companionship. While some consider pets messy and even view them as safety liabilities, the industry as a whole has generally become more pet-friendly. Brian Runnels, director of safety at Reliance Partners, suggests driving with pets shouldn’t be an issue as […]

Oct 2020

Time is of the essence after ransomware attack

Logistics companies have done what they can to protect their employees from COVID-19, but has this shifted focus away from safeguarding other areas of operation? With many workforces continuing to work away from the office, company data may be at a higher risk of a ransomware attack. If you’re unfamiliar with ransomware, consider yourself lucky. Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts a victim’s files. Attackers […]

Oct 2020

Crack down on cargo theft with situational awareness

Commercial truck drivers look forward to good meals, warm showers and rest at truck stops after arduous days on the road. But this much-needed period of relaxation can quickly turn stressful for victims of cargo theft. Driver downtime far too often results in downtime for truck and trailer security too. It only takes a few minutes away from your trailer to become a victim of […]

Oct 2020

Take advantage of HOS exception flexibility

The rules of the road altered slightly this Tuesday as long-awaited changes to driver hours-of-service (HOS) regulations finally took effect. In an effort to provide added flexibility to carriers and drivers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rolled out changes to four provisions of the HOS regulations that day aimed at expanding driver exceptions and modifying break requirements. Changes are now in effect for the following […]

Sep 2020

Final-mile adapts to e-commerce surge and rise in employment

The COVID-19 pandemic may have caused lengthy slowdowns early on across the logistics landscape, but it hasn’t prevented courier and final-mile delivery companies from darting across cities. In fact, the sector has adapted quite nicely and looks to remain busy as online retail sales and employment within the sector continue an upward trend. The addition of 8,000 courier and messenger jobs nationwide in August raised […]

Sep 2020

Thinking about expanding your fleet?

The blistering summer heat is starting to taper off as we approach the start of fall. But while temperatures have started to decrease, freight rates in the trucking sector continue to heat up. According to Truckstop.com analytics, the average national rates for dry van and reefer truckloads have steadily risen since May, reaching the highest levels since 2018. Similarly, SONAR’s U.S. Outbound Tender Rejection Index illustrates the […]

Sep 2020

Squelch high CSA scores to broaden your insurance options

Sometimes it’s best not to be in the upper percentile. That is certainly the case for Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) BASICs scores. Not only do the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and curious shippers regularly view this information, but these scores also play a major role in determining whether or not a motor carrier or owner-operator will be classified as a high risk to […]

Sep 2020

Truckers aid in Laura relief despite market tightness

In the days leading up to Hurricane Laura’s landfall, Louisianans and Texans along the Gulf Coast made their way North to escape the storm’s wrath. Despite evacuations, fleets of commercial truckers came the opposite direction to deal with Laura’s aftermath. Hurricanes and tropical storms present big business for freight. The destruction wrought by a powerful storm spurs major retailers as well as state and Federal […]

Aug 2020

For new trucking ventures, honesty is the best insurance policy

So you’ve just established a trucking company and are eager to score your first load. You’ve bought a truck and obtained CDL, MC and USDOT numbers. It’s time to start hiring drivers, right? Almost. But don’t forget to hit the road without proper insurance. The rules of the road apply to all commercial drivers; not a single carrier can outrun the consequences that follow an […]

Aug 2020

Protect against employment-related lawsuits now

In recent years, lawsuits against motor carriers have not only increased in frequency but also in bite. This should come as no surprise as headlines blaring multi-million dollar settlements have become newsflashes almost weekly. Research by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) recently shed light on lawsuits resulting from “nuclear verdicts.” It reported that from 2012 to 2019, there were 265 cases with verdicts over $1 […]

Aug 2020

Is the towing sector too risky to insure?

Whether it’s a couple of loose wheel bearings, a blown engine, or worse, a serious accident, truckers often feel helpless when their big rig forces them out of the fast lane and onto the side of the road. Thankfully, drivers aren’t stranded for long as fleets of tow truck operators stand by to assist day and night. Many jurisdictions consider tow trucks to be emergency […]

Jul 2020

Prioritize the health and well-being of your drivers

Since March, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many companies to operate remotely. The sudden change in work-life balance has been challenging but has also provided peace of mind for concerned workforces. In addition to avoiding rush hour traffic and the 9-5 grind, working remotely has become an attractive alternative for those looking to spare themselves from infection. However, not everyone is afforded this luxury. Truck […]

Jul 2020

How a $1.25 million insurance liability hike may affect owner-operators

Proposed rate increase in Congress would be “huge financial obstacle” for small-fleet truckers, says insurance expert A push by lawmakers to raise truck liability insurance for the first time in 40 years has advanced further than ever in Congress and the resulting rate increases would hit small trucking companies the hardest, according to an insurance expert. The provision included in the Moving Forward Act, which the […]

Ensure your independent drivers are covered as well

Debilitating injuries from tractor-trailer wrecks are sadly commonplace for motor carriers nationwide. Despite the best efforts to improve driver safety through rigorous training, the adoption of improved regulations and the implementation of new technologies, accidents still abound. To make matters worse, payouts for “nuclear verdicts” and other high-dollar lawsuits stemming from commercial truck-related accidents have sharply risen in recent years. New research by the American Transportation Research […]

Jul 2020

Hurricane season heats up – responding to a big one

Believe it or not, hurricane season is well underway, which means it’s time to keep a close eye on the weather. The Atlantic hurricane season started in June and continues through the end of November; this roughly six-month timeframe presents many opportunities for a storm to wreak havoc on economies and entire infrastructures of coastal communities large and small. Motor carriers and independent drivers operating […]

Jun 2020

Ensuring a non-owned trailer becomes a non-issue

A truckload of goods will often exchange hands multiple times between its origin and destination. In fact, it’s pretty common for a trailer to be hauled by one driver between points A and B only to be handed off to another to continue the journey to point C and so on. For instance, a truckload originating in Jacksonville bound for Los Angeles may find itself […]

Jun 2020

To keep or not to keep: What to consider when engine problems arise

Truckers often develop a sentimental attachment to their vehicles. Through long night hauls and truck stop naps, rush hour traffic and lonely stretches of road, a driver’s attachment to a truck can be compared to a cowboy’s love for his steed. That is why it can be extremely difficult for a driver to part ways with a years-old truck with engine problems. But truck owners […]

Jun 2020

Analyzing the response to COVID-19 and the importance of contingency planning

Entering 2020, the possibility of a pandemic seemed unfathomable. If companies thought about such a crisis at all, it was a “what-if” scenario. But “what-if” quickly became “what now?” There’s no shame in a company admitting it was blindsided by COVID-19; in fact, most probably found themselves unprepared. However, as the pandemic approaches the six-month mark, trucking companies and logistics providers should reflect on their […]

Jun 2020

The identity crisis of a non-rated motor carrier

Motor carrier safety ratings are a big deal, and they should be. Safety has become the industry’s top concern as compensatory payments and increased insurance premiums stemming from accidents have increased annually. With that being said, it’s understandable for a shipper to preferably contract with the highest-rated carriers. Safety ratings, however, don’t often paint an accurate picture of the current performance of a company. Worse, […]

May 2020

In the market for a used truck or trailer?

Those in the market to buy their own truck or trailer often face a binary choice – new or used. It’s a question as old as the highways itself and one that permeates the minds of forward-thinking truckers. Purchasing a truck fresh off the assembly line has its perks but can be expensive. On the other hand, used trucks lack certain elements of performance and […]

May 2020

Albrecht joins Reliance Partners as CFO and CRO

Reliance Partners, the Chattanooga-based insurance agency serving the commercial transportation and trucking industries, announced Monday that Thom Albrecht has joined the company as chief financial officer and chief revenue officer. Prior to joining Reliance Partners, Albrecht was a transportation equities analyst and investment banker for nearly 30 years at several banks, including BB&T and Stephens. In October 2017, he joined Celadon Group to help Paul […]

May 2020

Prioritize mitigating credit risk, especially during economic uncertainty

Freight brokers and commercial fleets process hundreds if not thousands of shipments daily. In an industry characterized by a huge amount of transactions, risk must consistently be weighed against reward. While most transportation companies diligently assess the profitability of each load before inking the deal, even the most thorough risk management practices cannot mitigate each and every risk. Many companies fall victim to the ever-present […]

Feb 2019

The Glossary of Trucks

As of 2017, there were around 23 million civilian trucks in China, 15 million in the US, and 6 million in the European Union. As of 2010, there were about 4 million refrigerated trucks worldwide. The different types of trucks include off-road trucks, heavy trucks, medium trucks, light trucks, very light trucks, and ultra light trucks. What is a Truck? A truck is a commercial vehicle […]

Feb 2019

Hazardous Materials Transportation Training

High-security transportation services can move hazardous materials while avoiding potentially dangerous situations. A large number of hazardous materials are shipped by government agencies. They are also outsourced to carriers who maintain their own fleet. These carriers are approved by the concerned agencies. Each agency has its own standard of approval for transporting different kinds of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials, because of their nature, should not […]

Jan 2019

Why You Need Owner Operator Insurance

If you have made the move from a paid trucker to a proud owner of your own trucking business, congratulations are definitely in order. This is because becoming an owner-operator is a huge step. There is big money in the trucking business and you are likely to make serious money as an owner operator. Now, it does not matter if you have just one truck […]

Jan 2019

The Implication Of MCS 90

If you drive a commercial vehicle or run trucks on the road, you may have come across the term MCS 90 or MCS-90 endorsement. While you may be aware of the basic requirements of insurance, many people are not aware of the specifics of MCS 90 and confuse them with general insurance. You should know MCS 90 is not an insurance policy in the conventional […]

Dec 2018

How to Become A Freight Broker with No Experience?

A freight broker assists shipping companies to move products from one point to the other. Instead of doing the job themselves, the broker finds a trucking company to haul the cargo. While doing so, the broker ensures that the trucking company will charge less than the shipping company is willing to pay. In this way, they make a profit. Also known as a load broker, […]

Nov 2018

All About Trucking Liability Insurance

If you have a vehicle for personal or business, you are required to have insurance. This is typically paid when you register your vehicle to be on the road and is required by law. But beyond that, you do not need to get extra insurance and if you are in an accident, it can be quite costly. For this reason, many people choose to buy […]

Nov 2018

Trucking Companies That Train Drivers

The trucking industry is an exciting career choice hence many people are now considering to either invest or seek employment opportunities in the industry. Those who want to get jobs as truck drivers may however wonder how they could get training. There are some training companies that train drivers as well as some dedicated training institutions that train these professionals. Trucker driver training by these […]

Oct 2018

Log Truck Insurance

Log Truck Insurance Logs are typically between 20 and 100 feet in length (or even longer) and depending on the tree; each could weigh over a ton. As such, the risks of them tipping and causing accidents and injuries are even higher in comparison to boxed loads. Log truck insurance provides coverage for the driver, the vehicle and any motorist impacted by accidental tipping and […]

Oct 2018

Long Haul Truck Insurance

Long haul truck insurance safeguards trucking companies from a lot of the potential costs that could result from an accident. Tractor-trailer trucks fall in the category of the biggest vehicles that are driven on public roads in the United States. The accidents in which they are involved can be tremendously severe and costly. When involved in a collision, an 18-wheeler can cause serious injuries and […]

Sep 2018

Commercial Truck Insurance Quotes

Commercial Truck Insurance Quotes When you venture into the truck business, one of the key requirements you need to fulfill is taking out commercial truck insurance quotes for your vehicle or fleet. To pick the ideal policy, you should check relevant information about your trucks. One of the first things you must do is to compile a list of details about the trucks, such as model, make, […]

Aug 2018

Standard Shipping Container Dimensions

Shipping container dimensions have been standardized, so they do not vary from one market to another, or from country to country. This is because they are made to international organization for standardization, making cross-border trade much more accessible. Containers can also be interchanged by shipping, rail and truck companies easily without having to make any adjustments whatsoever. The following are standard shipping container dimensions. External […]

How Do Long-Haul Drivers Stay Awake

You are continually fighting exhaustion, fatigue, and boredom. Your body wants to stop but you have to meet the deadline. How do long-haul drivers stay awake: There are several things you can do to stay awake during your long-haul driving. Know the Signs of Drowsiness You are repeatedly yawning. It is becoming difficult to keep your eyes open. You are facing difficulty in focusing on […]