The Fleet AdvantEDGE

Gain valuable insights and practical guidance on maintaining optimal tire conditions for fleet operations.

National Tire Safety Week (NTSW), led annually by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), returns June 30 – July 4, 2025. This nationwide initiative brings attention to the critical role tires play in vehicle safety, especially for heavy-duty trucks and Class 8 fleet operations. And according to the latest TRUST (Truck Reliability Usage Safety Tracker) index when reviewing the CSA scores of the 20 private fleets in the country, tires account for 50% of total vehicle maintenance violations and 83% of out of service vehicle Maintenance violation. This innovative safety index aims to provide benchmarks that address the longstanding issue of safety within transportation, with fleet-specific KPIs to help organizations improve areas of specific operations and elevate their overall CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores.

As we kick off June, the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” are officially underway. This period that runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day consistently sees an uptick in serious and fatal crashes nationwide. And while the spike in risk is often associated with younger or distracted drivers, fleet managers and heavy-duty truck drivers face the ripple effects every single day on the road. 

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 13-15, 2025, and this year’s focus is on tire safety and false records of duty status (RODS).

This 72-hour inspection and enforcement blitz aims to strengthen safety compliance across North America by targeting key areas that directly impact vehicle performance and road safety. This emphasizes the need for proper tire maintenance and accurate, honest RODS documentation both crucial in preventing crashes, avoiding costly out-of-service orders, and ensuring smooth operations for carriers and drivers.

Earth Day is a time to reflect on how we can make meaningful environmental progress, not just in the future, but right now.

The transportation industry plays a critical role in sustainability, and while the conversation often focuses on electric and alternative fuels, clean diesel technology remains a powerful and immediate solution for reducing emissions and improving efficiency for corporate transportation fleets. As we face the challenges of climate change, individuals, communities, and various industries must come together and work towards a better future.

In the transportation industry, change is the only constant, and our team is here to help you navigate it!

As regulations shift and new technologies emerge, staying ahead requires expert insights and innovative solutions. That’s why we’re excited to attend and exhibit at several key industry events in the coming months. 

Our team will be diving into the latest industry updates, including tariffs and what the recent EPA regulations changes mean for company’s procurement strategies moving forward. We’ll also be offering a complimentary Unbundled and Maintenance & Repair Solution Analysis and showcasing the success of our Fleet Advantage Maintenance Solution powered by FleetNet America by Cox Automotive, which continues to help provide cost savings to customers nationwide. 

As we reflect on 2024, Fleet Advantage has experienced continued growth, but we also recognize the new challenges our clients and partners face in an evolving transportation landscape. The industry has seen notable shifts this year, with pressure from regulatory changes, assessing alternative fuel options, combatting high Full-Service Lease rates, rising equipment costs, and navigating new equipment and procurement strategies. Companies must adapt to these challenges with forward-thinking approaches to ensure long-term success. 

Winter remains one of the most challenging seasons for the transportation industry. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and sub-zero temperatures present significant risks for drivers and fleets alike. Without proper preparation, these hazards can lead to accidents, delays, and costly repairs. Staying proactive with winter maintenance and safety protocols is not optional, it’s essential. 

With current technology and access to the latest tools, and by empowering drivers to conduct thorough inspections, fleets can better navigate the challenges that winter throws at us. Below are some essential tips on how you can prepare your drivers and fleet to weather the winter ahead.  

Are your brakes up to the challenge? Will they stop when you need them most?

When considering the key components of a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV), brakes are at the forefront. While tires are important, even a CMV with severely worn-out tires can still move along the road. Brakes are crucial because, inevitably, there will come a time when you need to bring to a stop an 80,000-pound CMV, whether it's at a red light or in an emergency.