The crackdown on the domestic shipping industry is continuing, with President Trump removing trucking schools. On December 1, US Transportation Security Sean P. Duffy announced the removal of nearly 3000 trucking schools. The DOT (Department of Transportation) put approximately 4,500 other CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training providers on notice. These schools are part of the TPR (Training Provider Registry), which lists all legally authorized providers of CDL training. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) will review 16,000 training providers on the TPR, including those already announced for removal. With the number of trucking schools impacted, the crackdown could soon have a significant impact on the domestic shipping industry.
Why Is President Trump Removing Trucking Schools
President Trump has been cracking down on trucking schools for various reasons, including regulatory compliance, safety, and quality control. The FMSCA’s review of 16,000 training providers noted that many schools were falsifying or manipulating training data to meet standards. Further review found that many schools lacked sufficient instructor qualifications and inadequate facilities. There has also been a failure of schools to maintain accurate documentation and provide records during audits. US Transportation Security Sean P. Duffy stated, “Under President Trump, we are reigning in illegal and reckless practices that let poorly trained drivers get behind the wheel of semi-trucks and school buses.” The Trump Administration wants to prevent unqualified drivers from receiving CDLs from low-quality training providers.
On a larger scale, the goal is to create greater safety in domestic shipping. Unqualified drivers who schools do not adequately train are more likely to cause accidents and other issues. The crackdown may also be tied to Trump’s imposing of greater English proficiency standards in trucking. Over the last few months, the Trump Administration has introduced several bills focused on English proficiency. The belief is that understanding English is a non-negotiable for truckers who have to communicate with officials and border patrol. It is also essential for reading road signs, which can help prevent accidents.
How Is This Impacting Truckers And Shippers?
The crackdown on fraudulent trucking schools has received a positive response from the Domestic shipping industry. Many believe it is long overdue for safety enforcement that benefits truckers and shippers. Along with making the road safer for carriers and pedestrians, it will also prevent supply chain delays. Despite the optimistic response, there has been criticism of how the crackdown will impact immigrant drivers. Around 18% of all US drivers are foreign-born, and removing more drivers could contribute to the trucker shortage. Fewer truckers could lead to higher shipping costs for shippers and affect both domestic and international shipping. Despite this, supporters of the crackdown believe that it is essential to remove “bad actors”, including truckers and training schools.
Fewer carriers available can also delay supply chains and potentially cause monetary loss. While this should not halt cargo movement, shippers should take appropriate steps to prevent disruptions. An ideal way to protect your cargo during this time is to speak with a freight broker. Brokers act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, arranging freight transport for shippers. They achieve this by having a network of carriers that offer a range of domestic solutions for moving your cargo. Brokers also offer services such as providing documentation, finding rates, and providing consultation. Reach A1 Freight Solutions at 786-375-9420 or info@a1fsinc.com to begin moving your goods anywhere in the US.