ATR 2 2022 digital

FROM 2018 THROUGH 2021,



WORK ZONE CRASHES




INCREASED BY

70 In Arkansas
%






















We can all do our part to help.

Work zone safety is everyone’s job.










































For more information, visit: @myARDOT @idrivearkansas
ARDOT.GOV/SLOWDOWNPHONEDOWN #SLOWDOWNPHONEDOWN

“Engaged







Readers!”












“I’m Butch Rice and I’m here to
say the Arkansas Trucking Report
stands apart, above and beyond all
the others. Our more than 25,000
readers are engaged and notice
who’s advertising and who isn’t.
If you’re advertising in ATR, you’ve

made a terrific business decision
that will market your company to
key leaders in transportation.
And if you want to do business with
these leaders, well, why aren’t
you advertising in ATR?”


Butch Rice


Butch Rice
President
Stallion Transportation Group



























For advertising information, contact Katie Thomason at
(501) 372-3462 or [email protected]

Insider Trucking




A look at the latest products, services and news from ATR advertisers
















LOGISTICS POWERHOUSE less-than-truckload (LTL) freight ser- As a divi-
vices. From fast-transit delivery of time- sion of EBE
sensitive shipments to cost-effective Technologies, a
options when customers can trade time leading provider
for savings, FedEx Freight simplifies of AI-powered
heavy and bulk shipping in the U.S., transportation workflow solutions,
Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the InfoStream uses EBE’s mobile capture
U.S. Virgin Islands. FedEx Freight moves application to easily track driver compli-
more than 105,000 LTL shipments each ance in real-time. InfoStream’s solu-
ArcBest is a multibillion-dollar day, and with expanded service offer- tions provide views of real-time driver
integrated logistics company that helps ings like FedEx Freight Direct, ship- behavior in one configurable dashboard
keep the global supply chain moving. ments can also be safely delivered to that enables managers to request ser-
We leverage our full suite of shipping and through the door for residences and vices, reports and driver information.
and logistics solutions to meet our businesses. FedEx Freight is headquar- InfoStream’s staff of industry pro-
customers’ needs. We’re fueled by the tered in Memphis, Tenn. Nearly 43,000 fessionals provide ongoing support,
simple notion of finding a way to get team members across the network are freeing carriers to focus on what’s
the job done, no matter what. Founded driven to innovate for our customers important — improving at-risk behaviors,
in 1923, we’re now a publicly traded, $4 and give back to the communities where reducing company liability and keeping
billion logistics powerhouse with over we live and work. For more information, drivers safe.
14,000 employees across more than visit about.fedex.com. Based in Illinois, InfoStream
250 campuses and service centers. We and EBE serve more than 650 clients
serve as a trusted advisor, listening to COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS TO throughout the United States and
our customers and using our innovative ENSURE DRIVER SAFETY AND Canada, representing all sizes and
technology to implement modern logis- COMPLIANCE industry segments.
tics solutions that help save money and InfoStream manages the entire Discover more at infostreamonline.
drive growth. driver lifecycle from qualification to com or 833-255-5046.
post-hire with a variety of safety solu-
LEADING LTL PROVIDER tions: ADVANCED SOFTWARE
SOLUTIONS
• Annual safety review
• CSA management

• DQ file management
• DVIR management McLeod Software helps trucking
• Log violation management companies like yours become better,
more efficient companies.
• Roadside inspection management
• Do what it takes to attract and
FedEx Freight, a subsidiary of FedEx • Training and certification retain the best drivers
Corp. (NYSE: FDX), is a leading pro-
vider of priority, premium and economy • Vehicle file management 

ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT | Issue 2 2022 53

• Don’t leave money on the table, • Free estimates
make better pricing decisions industry. We
• Custom paint work with three- approach ser-
• Fight for your drivers by tracking, color paint schemes, fuel tanks and vice differently,
billing and collecting detention chrome with a goal to increase your uptime and
charges
• Downdraft paint booth lower your operating costs. Our five
• Better serve your customers with • Truck detailing, windshield replace- dealerships in Arkansas now offer con-
EDI and web portals that let them ment and a large parts inventory tract maintenance plans for all makes
enter orders and track their freight and models of new and used trucks to
• Partnership with local tow compa- help minimize unexpected breakdowns,
• Get paid faster by automating your nies to expedite process simplify the repair process and assist
billing and settlement processes
you in managing the ongoing expenses
• Use your data and get better analysis MHC Kenworth – Little Rock offers of maintaining your fleet.
and insight into your operations a full range of services including sales, Whether you operate one vehicle
parts, service and more. To learn more, or a fleet of trucks, we will work with
Your dispatch operations and plan- call (501) 490-1500. you to customize a maintenance plan
ning system should be helping you that includes the services you need, at
accomplish all of this. Give us a chance TRUCKERS REACH A NEW a consistent expense and pricing, and
to show you how! 700,000 MILESTONE OF state-of-the-art repair facilities with
To hear what our customers have to SUPPORT FOR PREPASS factory-trained technicians. All contract
say, visit www.McLeodSoftware.com. maintenance packages also include
RushCare Complete, our all-inclusive
MHC KENWORTH – LITTLE ROCK service management solution.
ALL MAKES BODY SHOP Contact your local dealership for
For the first time, more than details and see how you can expect
100,000 fleets representing over more from Rush Truck Centers.
700,000 trucks chose to support PrePass Visit rushtruckcenters.com for
for weigh station bypass and other truck more information.
safety and efficiency services.
Across North America, trucks may STAY ACTIVE AND ON THE ROAD
bypass at over 450 PrePass sites, saving SBS Truck Specialist LLC provides
time and cutting costs along the way. multiple regulatory services the govern-
Since the founding of the PrePass Safety ment requires to keep you active and on
Alliance, motor carriers have enjoyed the road.
nearly one billion bypasses, saving 400
million gallons of fuel, 80 million driv-
No job is too big or too small at er hours and $7.5 billion in operational
MHC Kenworth. We pride ourselves on costs, all while reducing emissions by
quality and turnaround time, allowing 875,000 metric tons.
our customers to stay focused on their Carriers choose PrePass as their
business. MHC’s all makes body shops weigh station preclearance service • We set up your operating authority
utilize the latest technologies through- because it gives them technology (USDOT and mc numbers)
out our dealership network, including options. The PrePass app works as a
MHC Kenworth in Little Rock, Ark. standalone application or in conjunc- • Heavy highway tax (2290) that is
Managed by a team with more than tion with the PrePass transponder for paid to the IRS for trucks weighing
28 years of industry experience, MHC weigh station bypassing. over 55,000 lbs
Kenworth – Little Rock’s highly skilled For more information about how • Unified carrier registration (UCR)
staff includes journeymen, technicians PrePass can save you time and money which is registering all trucks run-
and body builders. They work closely visit PrePass.com or call 800-773-7222, ning under your USDOT number
with all insurance companies to make Option 2.
the process quick and easy for custom- • IRP (apportion tags) whether it
ers. Additional body shop features MORE THAN A DEALER NETWORK is setting up your new account or
include the following: More than a dealer network, Rush renewing your plates every year
Truck Centers is the premier solutions • IFTA decals (fuel tax)
provider for the commercial vehicle

54 Issue 2 2022 | ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT

• Annual carrier report (public service with and focus on meeting the needs UTILITY TRI-STATE GROWTH
assessment for your equipment) of drivers so they can meet the needs of SPURS PROMOTIONS
those who rely on them every day. Trailer Sales Manager Ed Devero
• Biennial update for your USDOT
number TLG operates 23 locations in eight at the Fort Smith location has been
states, two of which serve the Arkansas promoted to GM of trailer sales and
Give us a call at 501-812-3292 to trucking industry offering: marketing for all Utility Tri-State. Inc
learn more. • New and used truck sales locations in Arkansas and Oklahoma.
He has been with the company over 25
EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE • Service and mobile service years.
FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS • Parts The new sales
Smith Paint & Body has the experi- manager at the Fort
ence and expertise to take care of all • Leasing and rental Smith location is
your paint and body work for mid-size • In-house financing Matt Trotter. He has
to heavy trucks of all makes and mod- been with Utility for
els. You can count on We focus on providing the right five years in parts
us to give you the very solutions and care that is a level above and six months
best service when it others — the TLG Peterbilt experience. Trotter as a trailer sales
comes to fiberglass/ Learn more at www.tlgtrucks.com. associate. Trotter is excited to take on
SMC/aluminum his new role in trailer sales. Grayson
repairs, glass replace- BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE Bailey was also recently hired at the
ment/repairs, Established in 1969, the UCA Fort Smith location as the new trailer
collision repairs, College of Business offers 20 degrees sales associate.
RV and bus and certificates for undergraduate and
repairs, day cab conversions and paint- graduate students. These programs WHITING SYSTEMS HAS
ing/refinishing. No job is too small or equip business professionals to solve SOLUTIONS
too large. We welcome your insurance dynamic business challenges.
claim work and are happy to provide Well-
you with free estimates. Give us a call trained sup-
501-354-8406. ply chain
501 Signs & Vinyl is a full ser- managers Whiting Systems has been paving
vice graphic business located at Wayne solve orga- the way for a better way to clean trucks
Smith Trucking in Morrilton, Ark. From nizations’ most impactful challenges: since 1974. From coast to coast and
signs, banners, vehicle wraps, window purchasing, manufacturing, storing and beyond, our objective is to help our cus-
clings and everything in between, we transporting products. UCA’s Logistics tomers make a greater profit by provid-
can meet all of your sign and vinyl and Supply Chain Management (LSCM) ing the greatest value relative to wash
needs. Give us a call at 501-208-3667 program prepares students to tackle cost, wash quality and wash time.
or visit us on Facebook at 501 Signs & global supply chain challenges with a The SmartWashOut System is our
Vinyl. focus on the U.S. trucking industry. latest innovation designed and engi-
Our curriculum emphasizes truck- neered to disinfect your fleet’s trailers
THE TLG PETERBILT EXPERIENCE ing operations, safety and regulatory and ensure compliance with the Food
For drivers compliance. Graduates are prepared for Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Our
and fleet owners management positions in trucking but automated vehicle wash systems can be
looking for the also learn to optimize product flow and designed to fit your budget and specific
very best ride and storage, collaborate with suppliers and needs.
most dependable customers, and meet delivery expecta- Pure Hard Surface is the new dis-
®
partner, TLG Peterbilt is the dealer for tions through innovative solutions. infectant of choice and we are pleased
premium products and services. Founded UCA’s supply chain graduates will to be the distributor of Pure® for the
by drivers-turned-dealers, only TLG work hard for your organization and trucking industry. From disinfectants
can offer industry-leading support and customers. Contact Dr. Doug Voss to applicators, Whiting Systems is ready
relationships that last a lifetime. Our ([email protected]) for information on how to support your business with the train-
perspective from being out on the road our students can help your firm build a ing and supplies needed to keep your
means that we’re especially capable of better future. employees and customers safe.
being that expert source drivers rely on Learn more at www.whitingsys-
to keep them rolling. We’re easy to work tems.com. ATR

ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT | Issue 2 2022 55

S TAT VIE W











Gas Tax Holidays Don’t Offer


Relief at Pump






Inflation at the gas pump has prompted some states and politicians to consider a temporary “gas tax holiday,” pausing the
tax that motorists pay per gallon of gas. However, research from the Transportation Investment Advocacy Center reveals that
increases or decreases in state gas tax rates don’t trigger big changes in what drivers pay for a gallon of gas.
Since 2013, 34 states increased or decreased their state gas tax rates. The 177 changes to state gas tax rates included 122
increases and 55 decreases. American Road & Transportation Builders Association studied changes in retail gas prices for the
15 days preceding a state gas tax rate change. The model found there was no significant relationship between daily pump
prices and the anticipation of a gas tax increase. In fact, there was little difference between the average gas price in states that
changed their tax rate, compared to those that did not, over the examined nine-year period.



AVERAGE DAILY RETAIL PRICE OF GASOLINE, DEC. 2012 – DEC. 2021








































Source: American Road & Transportation Builders Association



ATR

56 Issue 2 2022 | ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT

You manage


your business.





We’ll manage



your risks.

















We Know the Transportation Industry



Specializing in insurance and risk management for the transportation industry.



















Little Rock Birmingham Fayetteville
1500 Riverfront Dr., 2211 7th Ave S. 1465 E. Joyce Blvd., Ste. 205,
Little Rock, AR 72202 Birmingham, AL 35233 Fayetteville, AR 72703
501-661-4800 | 800-542-0226 205-252-9871 | 800-476-2211 501-661-4800 | 800-542-0226



©2020, McGriff, Seibels & Williams, Inc., McGriff
Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved. McGriffInsurance.com

THE LAST WORD








Mr. Morris Goes to Washington









By Mark Morris swamp that needs to be drained, and unteering to pass out burgers at the truck
Guest Writer maybe you’ve agreed (maybe I have nod- stop on Truck Driver Appreciation Day.
In April, I joined Arkansas Trucking ded along, too). But being there, I was There’s a role for every one of us.
Association President Shannon Newton just in awe of the place. I’d only visited Following in the footsteps of the
and other trucking executives for my the city one other time, and I’d never leaders I looked up to like the commit-
first Call on Washington. Over two taken the underground tunnels or been ment of Pat Reed, the quiet wisdom
days, we walked miles back and forth invited to meet with my representative of Wayne Smith and the dedication of
over Capitol Hill for meetings with our in his D.C. office, shake his hand and Craig Harper has been a privilege. I’m
delegation to talk trucking. After more answer his questions about my experi- thankful to Butch Rice who challenged
than two years of virtual this and webi- ence with truck parking and fuel prices. me to get more involved and step up to
nar that, I welcomed the opportunity to We prepared to talk about making the chairman’s seat. They set an example
come face-to-face with my elected offi- sure money from the infrastructure bill for me to find new ways to get involved
cials in the nation’s capital. goes to work in our state and on our as a leader. It has been an honor to have
I was elected to be chairman of the routes, the driver shortage and policy served. Despite the challenges of navigat-
Arkansas Trucking Association Board steps that can offer relief, and nuclear ing the pandemic and all of the com-
of Directors August 2020 at the annual verdicts. I have personally seen the truck plications that have rippled throughout
conference that had been delayed three parking shortage worsen, and roadside the industry and society, learning from
months because of the pandemic. At parking become a problem in Arkansas. and leading the board has been the most
that time, board members were taking The representatives, senators and their enjoyable of all my time at ATA.
conference calls with state and federal staff took notes as we talked, scribbling Alongside the previous leaders and
leadership to get updates on the virus down questions and anecdotes, and mentors, I am so thankful for the ATA
situation and share what challenges we asked us “What do you need done?” staff for answering my questions, con-
were facing to keep the supply chain After six meetings, I walked away necting me with resources and meeting
moving. Since then, my whole tenure as impressed that some of our members of chaos or confusion with organization.
chair has been in the middle of the pan- Congress were so engaged and educated I’ve had to deepen my relationships
demic; the vaccine rollout; the inflating on trucking issues. More than that, I was with other board members, the staff and
economy; and the shortage of workers, impressed by the reputation of Arkansas especially Shannon, and those relation-
toilet paper and microchips. The COVID Trucking Association when we walked ships have undoubtedly made my career
chair, that’s who I’ve had to be. into rooms. I was proud to have played and life more satisfying. It is fortunate
Even after decades as a member of a part in this relationship we have with that we are more successful together, but
ATA and 19 years serving on the board, leadership that they would listen to our it is a real blessing to get to know the
I’d never thought about attending Call concerns and understand the role we people in this association better.
on Washington before. Politics hasn’t play in the economy. I hope I have brought value, chal-
been high on my radar, but as chair, it Every year I spend invested in this lenged others to discover new ways to
seemed like a chance to see up-close how organization, I learn what the power of engage and encouraged someone to con-
the machine works. Unsurprisingly, just association means. To me, it means that nect with the power in our association. ATR
like trucking, the machine is more than every person has a part that matters. Maybe
cogs and wheels. It’s people. that’s financially supporting the association Mark Morris is the outgoing chair of the
Arkansas Trucking Association Board of
You’ve heard politicians and TV mission, engaging with politics and form- Directors and the president of Morris
commentators repeat that D.C. is a ing relationships with your delegates, vol- Transportation Services in Hamburg, Ark.

Opinions expressed on this page may not reflect official policies or opinions of the Arkansas Trucking Association or the American Trucking Associations.

58 Issue 2 2022 | ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT

PATRONS














SUPPORTERS

As we celebrate Stallion’s thirty-year anniversary, we


wish to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to our valued

employees, customers, vendors, and especially the


Arkansas Trucking Association. It has been an honor to

work with you through the years. Our future is bright,


and we are most grateful.


Butch & Robin Rice