Road Scholar | Transport Blog's

For the past three years, shippers have enjoyed a transportation market characterized by abundant capacity and competitive pricing.   That landscape is changing quickly. As the trucking industry moves toward the second half of 2026, multiple indicators point to a rapidly tightening freight market.   Spot rates are climbing, fuel costs have surged, trucking capacity is shrinking, and import volumes are accelerating. Together, these factors are creating the conditions for what could become the most challenging peak shipping season since the post-pandemic freight surge. For shippers in the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and consumer goods sectors, now is the time to prepare. The Freight Market Is Shifting Recent transportation data suggests that the freight recession that defined much of the past three years is ending. After years of rate pressure and carrier exits, capacity is contracting across the trucking industry.   Fewer available trucks, stricter regulatory...

Every day, millions of products travel across North America through an intricate network of manufacturers, warehouses, freight brokers, trucking companies and distribution centers.   Most consumers rarely think about this system until something goes wrong. A recently announced criminal case in New York highlights just how complex — and vulnerable — modern supply chains can be.   Prosecutors have alleged that eight individuals participated in a multi-state cargo theft operation that diverted freight shipments worth approximately $4.49 million between late 2025 and early 2026.   The allegations have not been proven in court, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. While the legal proceedings will unfold through the judicial system, the case offers an opportunity to better understand an issue that has increasingly captured the attention of logistics professionals, law enforcement agencies and businesses across North America: cargo theft t...

For years, truck parking has been one of the most frustrating and persistent challenges facing America's professional drivers.   Every day, truckers spend valuable time searching for safe, legal places to park—often after exhausting their Hours of Service limits.   Now, a new funding package moving through Congress could provide meaningful relief. The U.S. House Appropriations Committee recently approved a sweeping $92.2 billion Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development funding bill that includes a significant investment in trucking infrastructure and safety.   Among the most notable provisions is $200 million dedicated specifically to expanding truck parking capacity nationwide. While the legislation still faces additional votes in both the House and Senate before reaching the President's desk, the proposal signals growing recognition in Washington that trucking remains the backbone of America's supply chain—and that drivers need better support. ...

The trucking industry may soon see relief from a federal tax that has been in place for more than a century. On June 2, 2026, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) introduced the Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act, legislation aimed at eliminating the 12% federal excise tax (FET) on new heavy-duty trucks and trailers.   While the proposal is still working its way through Congress, it has already gained strong support from trucking industry leaders who believe the change could accelerate fleet modernization, improve safety, and reduce emissions across America's highways. A Tax Rooted in History The federal excise tax on heavy trucks was originally established in 1917 to help fund the United States' involvement in World War I.   More than 100 years later, the tax remains in place and is currently directed into the Highway Trust Fund to support transportation infrastructure projects. While the purpose of the tax has evolved, many industry stakeho...

The chemical transportation industry continues to evolve as regulators, shippers, and carriers work to improve safety, transparency, and supply chain resilience.   In 2026, hazardous materials (hazmat) compliance remains one of the most critical responsibilities for chemical manufacturers and distributors.   A single compliance failure can result in costly fines, shipment delays, environmental damage, or even serious safety incidents. As supply chains become increasingly complex and regulatory oversight grows, chemical shippers must stay informed about changing requirements and partner with transportation providers that prioritize safety and compliance. Why Hazmat Compliance Matters More Than Ever Chemical products are essential to countless industries, from manufacturing and agriculture to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.   However, many of these materials present risks during transportation, including flammability, toxicity, corrosiveness, or environmental haza...

When temperatures rise during the summer months, refrigerated transportation faces one of its biggest annual stress tests.   Extreme heat, increased freight demand, traffic congestion, and tighter delivery windows all place additional pressure on cold chain operations. For companies shipping pharmaceuticals, food products, specialty chemicals, and other temperature-sensitive freight, a reefer breakdown can quickly turn into a major operational disruption. At Road Scholar Transport , protecting temperature-sensitive freight is more than just running refrigerated trailers—it’s about maintaining strict oversight, visibility, communication, and response protocols from pickup to delivery. Why Summer Creates Higher Reefer Risk Reefer units work harder during summer than at any other time of year. As outside temperatures climb, refrigeration systems must continuously maintain precise trailer temperatures despite: Prolonged highway heat exposure Frequent stop-and-go t...