With pending legislation and advocacy issues threatening to dramatically raise transportation and supply chain costs, more than 10 industry associations, led by the shipper group NASSTRAC, have agreed to participate in a pro-trucking Washington fly-in on Feb. 1.


This called "Stand Up For Trucking," will bring together transportation executives and key stakeholders in trucking, with the goal to let Congressional and Senate representatives understand that trucking is a vital national asset that contributes to the well-being of this country.

"Never before have the advocacy interests of both motor carriers and shippers dependent upon over-the-road trucking been more closely aligned," says Mike Regan, chairman of NASSTRAC's Advocacy Committee.

Participating associations include the American Trucking Associations, the Transportation Intermediaries Association, National Private Truck Council, Coalition for Transportation Productivity, Truckload Carriers Conference, National Industrial Transportation League, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Cleaner Safer Trucking, Forest Resources Association, National Automobile Dealers Association, and the American Movers and Storage Association.

"ATA was approached, along with several other transportation stakeholder groups, by Mr. Regan and NASSTRAC to participate in a joint call on Washington," says Sean McNally, a spokesman for ATA. "ATA hopes NASSTRAC's event will be a success and we look forward to working with all of these groups to shine a spotlight on the importance of transportation."

According to Brian Everett, executive director of NASSTRAC, the agenda will include the need to enact a multi-year highway bill that reforms the program and focuses funding on critical freight corridors, as well as the urgent need to pay for highway infrastructure in the most efficient way.

In addition, NASSTRAC, ATA, and participating associations agree there's a significant need to encourage Congress to stay focused on safety while stopping burdensome laws and regulations that impede productivity and increase the delivered cost of goods, including the proposed changes to the truck driver hours of service currently being considered.

"Shippers rely heavily on the safe, reliable, cost-effective service that over-the-road truck transportation offers them," said Everett. "In fact, more than 70% of freight shipments, by value and by tons, move by truck. Unfortunately, many issues currently being considered by lawmakers will have a negative impact on trucking productivity and efficiency if passed, possibly increasing transportation and supply chain costs by more than 10% next year alone. Along with significant cost increases, companies across America will suffer from significant decreases in efficient distribution and transportation. The recession, high fuel prices, roadway congestion, and a shortage of qualified drivers all have led to reduced capacity and increased transit times for trucking. That's why we believe that now, more than ever, there's a significant need to stand up for trucking."

There is no registration fee, but registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.StandUpForTrucking.org.