New Hours of Service Rules

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is working on new hours of services rules. These hours of service rules will potentially change the regulations on how long a truck driver is allowed to drive continuously. There is currently no set date of when the Department of Transportation will announce the new rules and regulations.

Hours of Service Changes

The current hours of service rules are outlined here on the Department of Transporation website. Currently property carrying CMV drivers have regulations such as an 11 hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty. This is one of the rules that may change, for it has been proposed that there be a 10 hour driving limit instead.

New Hours of Service Effects

As with any issue, there are people for and against the changes. The new hours of service are being considered on the grounds of looking out for the safety of all drivers, which is obviously a major concern and should be looked at seriously. However, people who are against the changes argue that there are already stringent safety regulations that are effective. A large part of the opposition is that it could be very costly.

If drivers are unable to drive as long, then there will be decreased available capacity and increased pricing. There is already a shortage of drivers currently, and this could make the situation even worse. If drivers who were previously driving 11 hours straight can now only drive 10 hours, then they will be covering less ground and freight will take longer to arrive and fewer loads will be delivered as a whole. If the proposed changes go through, shipment costs will like increase by about 10%.

Where Do You Stand?

Do you feel that these proposed changes are necessary for keeping our drivers and roadways safe? Or do you feel that safety regulations are already sufficient and the significant shipping price increase is not warranted?

As always, regardless of changes or new regulations we can find you unique and cost effective routes for your shipments. Give us a call at (877) 764-9441

Have international shipments? We can help with those as well!

Head to PNG Worldwide for more information.