Truck drivers who transport logs can get up to $125,000. (Image: Shutterstock)
(Image: Shutterstock)
Good day,
While advocates for providing more training for truck drivers continue their efforts in the United States, one Canadian province is taking training to new levels. The Government of Saskatchewan has announced that all drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial licence will be required to achieve 121.5 hours of training. This includes 47 hours of in-class training, 57 hours behind the wheel, and 17.5 hours of yard training.
“It’s all about highway safety,” said Joe Hargrave, the minister responsible for SGI, according to 620 CKRM. “Better trained drivers and rigorous testing will make our roads safer.”
The current Class 1 owners are grandparents. The new rule goes into effect on March 19, 2019.
According to CKRM, the training will focus on basic driving, professional driving, inspections and air braking.
Ontario currently requires 103.5 hours of training, and Alberta has announced entry-level training, but has not yet clarified what this training will require.
The Saskatchewan Trucking Association applauded the move.
“I think we did a really good job. I’m really happy with what happened today,” said Susan Ewart, executive director.
Did you know?
The world’s longest rail freight route runs from Yiwu, China, to Madrid, Spain. It takes about 18 days to cover a distance of 8,200 miles.
Quoted:
“The outlook for truckload and intermodal rates in the 2019 contract season is unclear, but we believe a more muted pricing outcome is becoming more likely.”
– UBS analyst Thomas Waduteks
In other news:
Understand the role that robotics and augmented reality play in the supply chain
DHL is investing in robotics, augmented reality and the Internet of Things, but what does this mean for the supply chain? (Forbes)
Uptake was selected as Best Innovator
AI-powered startup Uptake won Innovator of the Year for its work on supply chain optimization. (Dive into the supply chain)
Manufacturers drive infrastructure
A group of manufacturers is making an effort to educate and encourage the new Congress to invest in infrastructure in the new year. (Transportation topics)
Europe wants to make jobs for truck drivers more attractive
New changes to European Council rules seek to make the job of a truck driver more attractive by standardizing wages. (Loadstar)
Headwinds are gathering for trucking
UBS sees headwinds in trucking rates as rates decline in 2019. (Seeking Alpha)
Final thoughts
The cessation of the US-China trade war is a positive development, but with no rollback of current tariffs, it amounts to the status quo. However, the mere fact that countries will begin to negotiate is a major development that could lead to improved trade and increased movement of goods between countries.
Hammer down everyone!
