Volume 27 • Issue 11 • 11/25/2025

IN THIS ISSUE

  • BOARD NEWS & VIEWS: Something a Little Different — Seed Oils and Your Body by Mike Gardecki

  • UTA WEBINAR: December 5 • 2:00 PM ET • Cummins' Mario Sanchez-Lara

  • DEALER GROUP October Update by Mark Fishel

  • MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Marc Hess

  • OPINION: Why Now is Our Time: Moving Forward While Others Stand Still by Ricardo Rodriguez-Long

  • What is a Commercial Truck? Definition, Types, and Uses by Ian Sifuentes

  • Women In Trucking Blog

  • Used Truck Market Review & Forecast

  • Awards & Accolades

  • Industry News Briefs

  • Electric & Alternative Fuel News

 

What an Amazing Convention in Beautiful San Diego!

Thanks to All Who Attended…

And a Special Thanks to Our Amazing Sponsors.

We Could Not Do it Without Your Generous Support.

Click to See Photos from the Convention

Soon to your in-box: The Convention Wrap-Up e-newsletter in December! 

 

For those who know me, my passions—beyond used trucks and the UTA, of course—include health and wellness. Seed oils have been getting a lot of attention lately. While the “other” reasons are interesting, I’ll be focusing on their history and their impact on health.

Traditional Cooking Fats

Before seed oils were introduced, common cooking fats included: 

  • beef tallow
  • whole raw butter
  • lard

These foods are incredibly nutrient-dense and support essential functions such as:

  • cellular health
  • protection against oxidation
  • overall brain function

In contrast, the manufacturing process and chemical makeup of seed oils can alter how our bodies function, leading them to operate in ways that are not optimal for long-term health.

Read More
 

Webinar for UTA Members 

Friday, December 5 • 2:00 PM ET

Cummins' Mario Sanchez-Lara

General Manager Private Carriers Business

Cummins

• Cummins Product Plan Update

• Current Engine Updates
• Encore Warranty

Members: Login & Join HERE

 
Truck Paper – Convention Presenting Sponsor
 

What Can the Dealer Group Do for You?
What Can You Do for the Dealer Group?

As we enter the final days of 2025, we look back to review the year in commercial truck and trailer sales and, just as importantly, to forecast what 2026 may bring for our industry.

In an era when markets of all kinds are changing rapidly, we still operate within a supply-and-demand-based economy. It is the economic news posted on a daily basis that sets new boundaries, governed by interest rates, truck tonnage to be hauled, freight rates, truck and trailer production, tariffs, and a renewed scrutiny of CDL drivers’ ability to perform safely and demonstrate command of the English language.

Read More
 
Penske Used Trucks – Convention Presenting Sponsor
 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Marc Hess

Marc Hess, Purchasing and Wholesale
Corridor Truck Group, Fort Collins, CO

For more than two decades, Marc Hess has made his mark in the used truck industry.

“I’ve been a member of the UTA for about a year and a half this time,” Marc says. “But I’ve been in the used truck business for 24 years, and I’ve had several roles in my career.”

Marc’s introduction to the trucking world came at a turning point in his life. In 2001, the technology sector economy took a sharp downturn, leaving Marc looking for a new direction. His father, Al Hess, was already a seasoned professional in truck sales. Out of work, Marc decided to give used truck sales a try — and he hasn’t looked back since.

His first official role in the industry was with MHC Kenworth in Denver, Colorado, where he joined as a Used Truck Salesperson. “I spent a lot of time cold calling trucking companies, taking pictures of equipment, and loading them on our advertising platforms,” he recalls. He also learned to drive a truck and worked with the service department to get a better understanding of what different repairs cost.

Read More
 
Norton Transport - Convention Presenting Sonsor
 

I know many of you are worried. You’re hearing about AI and technology taking jobs. You see competitors cutting back, freezing hiring, and sitting on their cash. Every day, the news talks about economic uncertainty — and you might find yourself wondering, “Is my company or job safe?”

I want to be honest with you. Yes, times are uncertain. Yes, the market is slower than we’d like. But uncertainty isn’t our enemy: inaction is.

Right now, I see competitors making critical mistakes. They’re waiting. They believe that by freezing, cutting back, and playing it safe, they’ll survive until things improve.

But here’s the truth about the trucking industry: goods still need to move. Trucks still break down. CPAs are still advising companies to replace aging equipment. The freight market hasn’t come to a halt — thousands of loads are being moved every single day. The population hasn’t decreased, and demand hasn’t disappeared.

Eventually, things will rebound. And when they do, who do you think will win — the dealers who stayed silent, or the ones who showed up when their customers needed them most?

Read More
 
International Used Truck Centers
 

From delivering goods across the country to transporting heavy construction equipment, commercial trucks form the backbone of American commerce. But what exactly is a commercial truck, and how do you decide which type fits your business needs? 

This guide explores the definition of commercial trucks, how they're classified, and the different types by weight and use. You’ll also find useful buying strategies and tips for choosing trailers. 

Exploring your options at a commercial truck dealership, considering new commercial trucks, or browsing used commercial trucks for sale? This guide will help you make informed decisions.

Read More
 
Kenworth
 

How Ericka Norfleet Found Freedom Behind the Wheel

by Courtney Bloom, (Oct 1, 2025)

The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Ericka Norfleet as its October 2025 Member of the Month. Norfleet is a professional truck driver for A2B Synchronized Logistics. 

When Norfleet was a child, she had no idea that her fascination with big trucks would one day lead to a career on the open road. Like many kids, she loved road trips, often signaling truckers with the classic arm pump to hear their horns blare. Back then, seeing women driving 18-wheelers was rare. The idea that she could become one never crossed her mind. 

Fast forward to today, and Norfleet is a proud professional truck driver with a decade of experience, a finalist for the WIT 2025 Driver of the Year award, and a voice of encouragement for women entering the field. 

Read More
 
Peterbilt
 

USED TRUCK MARKET REVIEW & FORECAST

ACT Research

VOLUME TRENDS: Same dealer used Class 8 retail truck sales increased m/m for a second time in September. The 2.4% m/m gain was just about on pace with the expected seasonal performance. September is typically the fourth best sales month of the year, running more than 5% above average. The auction market poured on the steam in typical quarter-end fashion. Auction volumes surged 37% higher m/m in September. Dealers also found it easier to sell amongst themselves. The wholesale channel advanced 11% m/m. Combined, total market same dealer sales volumes rose 15% m/m in September. Compared to September 2024, the retail market was 4.6% stronger. The wholesale segment rose 27%, while auction trans-actions withered (-26%). Total reported market volumes were 7.8% lower y/y. 

See Full Report

J.D. Power Auction Update

Auction Update

At Class 8 auctions in October, sales volume dipped mildly from September and depreciation was consistent.

Looking at late-model sleeper tractors, average auction pricing for our benchmark truck in October was:

• Model year 2023: Not enough data for comparison

• Model year 2022: $43,093; $7,090 (14.1%) lower than September
• Model year 2021: $36,760; $706 (1.9%) lower than September
• Model year 2020: $30,866; $1,295 (4.4%) higher than September
• Model year 2019: $22,225; $938 (4.0%) lower than September

See Full Report

Sandhills Global Equipment Value Trends

Used Heavy-Duty Truck Inventory Is Down From Last Year, With Values Trending Sideways

According to Sandhills Global’s market reports covering October 2025 data for used trucks, trailers, and equipment on Sandhills’ U.S. platforms, inventory levels of used heavy-duty trucks are down 11.6% compared to year-ago levels. Asking prices and auction values, meanwhile, are holding steady with sideways trends. Inventory levels, asking prices, and auction values for medium-duty trucks are all trending downward.

The key metric in all of Sandhills’ market reports is the Sandhills Equipment Value Index (EVI). Buyers and sellers can use the information in the Sandhills EVI to monitor equipment, truck, and trailer markets and maximize returns on acquisition, liquidation, and related business decisions.

See Full Report

 
Cost Recovery Consultants
 
AWARDS & ACCOLADES

The UTA wants to recognize the wins of the people and companies in our industry! If you want to share news about an award or accolade, please send the details and article link to our newsletter editor at utaeditor@uta.org.

Women In Trucking Association Names 2025 Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation

Women In Trucking Staff (Oct 29, 2025) — Redefining the Road magazine, the official magazine of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), announced today the recipients of the 2025 “Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation.”

Read More

Women In Trucking Association Announces Finalists for 2025 Influential Woman in Trucking Award

Women In Trucking Staff (Oct 21, 2025) — The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) announced today four finalists for the 2025 Influential Woman in Trucking award, sponsored by TrueBlue’s Centerline Drivers. Established in 2010, the award honors outstanding female leaders who are shaping the future of trucking and inspiring others through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to advancing women in the industry. 

Read More

UTA Presents Lifetime Achievement, Annual Award Winners

TPS (November 6, 2025) — Mark Fishel, owner of Vandeventer Truck Sales, was named the winner of the UTA Marvin F. Gordon Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Used Truck Association (UTA) Convention Thursday at the Marriott Marquis in San Diego.

Read More

Nick Lombardo (left) awards Mark Fishel (right) with the UTA's most prestigious award. More details and awards coming in our Convention Wrap-Up eNewsletter next month. 

INDUSTRY NEWS BRIEFS

Groendyke’s Greg Hodgen Aims to Be Trucking’s Superhero

Transport Topics (October 28, 2025) — 

ENID, Okla. — It is a familiar scene when the Hollywood summer blockbuster season banks on a superhero to save the day. This past summer, Tinseltown’s superhero was none other than the Man of Steel himself — Superman.

Read More

Saia Beats Analyst Expectations as Q3 Profit Slides 7%
Transport Topics (October 30, 2025)— Profit at Saia fell 7% year over year in the third quarter of 2025 as revenue decreased and costs rose, but the less-than-truckload carrier beat analyst expectations.
Johns Creek, Ga.-headquartered Saia posted a profit of $86.3 million, compared with $92.8 million in the year-ago period.

Read More

Mack Introduces Pink Pioneer for Breast Cancer Awareness

CCJ (October 31, 2025) — In support of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Mack Trucks has unveiled a specially wrapped Mack Pioneer to go along with the company’s “Pink Lady” Mack Anthem.

Read More

Schneider Reports Revenue Growth, Profit Dip in Tough Market
Transport Topics (October 30, 2025) Schneider experienced revenue growth in the third quarter from the previous year even as a slowing market and claims costs dragged down earnings, the company reported Oct. 30.

Read More

New Rule to Allow Diesel Techs to do Inspection, Brake Work More Quickly
TPS (October 30, 2025) Earlier this year, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) granted a five-year waiver to a technician training requirement after a years-long fight by the American Trucking Associations’ Tech-nology & Maintenance Council (TMC).

Read More

Used Market, Economy ‘Okay’ Considering Freight Dynamics

TPS (November 10, 2025)“We’re doing okay. That’s the message I want to communicate,” says ACT Research Vice President Steve Tam.

Read More

OEM Panel Touches Hot-Button Tariff, Regulatory Uncertainty at UTA Convention

TPS (November 10, 2025) Production tariffs and new equipment regulations don’t impact used truck dealers as directly as their new truck counterparts, but their eventual shockwaves can still be plenty disruptive.

Read More

ELECTRIC NEWS BRIEFS

GM Slashes EV Workforce After Trump Ends Tax Breaks

Transport Topics (October 29, 2025) General Motors Co. notified about 5,500 employees across three plants that they are being laid off at least temporarily as the carmaker reassesses electric vehicle production in the wake of President Donald Trump’s move to eliminate crucial tax credits.

Read More

Tesla May Add Steering Wheel, Pedals to Cybercab After All

Transport Topics (October 28, 2025) Tesla Inc. sees the forthcoming Cybercab as its long-promised more affordable electric vehicle — and it’s willing to make fundamental design changes to sell the car in high volumes.

Read More

Volvo’s VNR Electric Reaches 20 Million Customer Miles

Transport Topics (October 26, 2025) SAN DIEGO — Volvo Trucks North America’s VNR Electric model has reached 20 million miles of on-the-road customer operations, the OEM said Oct. 25. The regional haul battery-electric tractor reached 10 million miles in December 2024.

Read More

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