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Prime Inc hopper division

Jan 02, 2024 at 07:37 PM CST
+ 43 - 13

According to an article I just read in CDL LIFE Prime Inc is adding a hopper division.... Somehow I don't see this lasting long, but I've been wrong before.

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 07:05 AM CST
+ 1 - 1
Hope its not like there tank division out of decatur Indiana they have had a few lay overs just turning the corner to go north on US 27. Not to mention if they slaughter the rates even lower
Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 07:06 AM CST
- 2
Yessir seen prime hopper in South Dakota
Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 07:06 AM CST
+ 5
Go figure they are here to destroy this trucking market now also!!
Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 07:38 AM CST
+ 1

Several years ago Werner Enterproses had a hopper division. It didn't last long.

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 07:46 AM CST

Saw one in Indiana yesterday.

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 08:40 AM CST
+ 1

3 so far at cargill in Fargo nd

looking for o/o to lease on put the prime decal on and go. Probably sure the rates for local will drop.

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 09:29 AM CST
+ 2 - 1
Will they do the typical outlaw stuff like everyone has come to expect? Run grossly overweight? Cheat on HOS? Hire South African farm laborer? Run farm plates for commercial hauling?
Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 09:29 AM CST

They have a live going on right now on youtube.

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 09:31 AM CST
Quote: "They have a live going on right now on youtube. "

https://www.youtube.com/live/DRzSoEu_AbU?si=e8j3l6QBCYOfeP2G

Replied on Wed, Jan 03, 2024 at 12:07 PM CST
+ 1
Yay so excited to sit at home more due to you jack wagons dropping the rates
Replied on Thu, Jan 04, 2024 at 11:05 AM CST
+ 2 - 1
Probly gotta go threw several weeks of intense training..to learn how to roll tarp..and open hoppers...
Replied on Thu, Jan 04, 2024 at 12:44 PM CST
Quote: "Several years ago Werner Enterproses had a hopper division. It didn't last long. "

Werner is running Walking Floors here in FL. they bought out Reed TMS.

Replied on Thu, Jan 04, 2024 at 12:44 PM CST
Watch the Utube video to see what kind of moorons they are..
Replied on Thu, Jan 04, 2024 at 12:44 PM CST
+ 1
On the other hand let them have it so our rates would be much higher after they trash the lane and loose their contracts
Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 07:09 AM CST
+ 5 - 1
Quote: "Probly gotta go threw several weeks of intense training..to learn how to roll tarp..and open hoppers..."

It will be interesting to watch when summer comes and those sticky commodities won't flow. Get the popcorn ready πŸ˜€

Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 08:30 AM CST

After watching the video from the other day, I wouldn't be too concerned about Prime in the hopper bottom sector. They are going to get a real education soon.

Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 08:30 AM CST
+ 3

I'm not worried. It will take them 2 days to do a 500 mile run because they will be on social media telling everyone how great it is to work for Prime. Prime drivers relay heavily on recruitment bonuses to afford to eat. They don't make money actually driving the truck. Who wants to do a dirty job, like hopper, for free when you can do reefer or dry van for free?

Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 10:03 AM CST
+ 2

Oh I just watched part of the video of Prime talking about the new "hopper division". Booyyy, are they blowing smoke or what?!?!?! I dont see this lasting long either.

Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 03:38 PM CST
+ 1 - 1
When the megga’s want something they typically get it do to their Wall Street connections, a example would be the ELD mandate, thanks to that the small players no longer have a advantage in this market, what did stick out to me from the bit of video I watched was that they plan to use lease operators and not company trucks, their commitment to this idea appears limited, but if government keeps pushing the electric truck idea who else but the megga’s could make it work? Big contracts take big investment.
Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 04:09 PM CST
Quote: "When the megga’s want something they typically get it do to their Wall Street connections, a example would be the ELD mandate, thanks to that the small players no longer have a advantage in this market, what did stick out to me from the bit of video I watched was that they plan to use lease operators and not company trucks, their commitment to this idea appears limited, but if government keeps pushing the electric truck idea who else but the megga’s could make it work? Big contracts take big investment."

Using the guys driving for free (lease/puchase guys) makes a lot of sense from a mega perspective. They have someone pay to drive a prime truck instead of having to pay someone to drive. That would allow them to haul bulk for pennies on the dollar. Of course the lease guy would eventually fail, but there are 100 guys ready to take the failed guys place.

From the Mega perspective, it is a win/win situation with no chance to lose money.

I believe (and I have been known to be wrong) that this is how the megas cut rates so bad... Guys in lease purchase paying the mega to drive a truck. No legit truck owner would haul for the rates that the lease/puchase guys are forced to take.

Replied on Fri, Jan 05, 2024 at 08:12 PM CST
+ 1 - 1
Quote: "Using the guys driving for free (lease/puchase guys) makes a lot of sense from a mega perspective. They have someone pay to drive a prime truck instead of having to pay someone to drive. That would allow them to haul bulk for pennies on the dollar. Of course the lease guy would eventually fail, but there are 100 guys ready to take the failed guys place. From the Mega perspective, it is a win/win situation with no chance to lose money. I believe (and I have been known to be wrong) that this is how the megas cut rates so bad... Guys in lease purchase paying the mega to drive a truck. No legit truck owner would haul for the rates that the lease/puchase guys are forced to take. "

I don't know what Prime plans to haul for product, but if they haul much grain the lease guys don't stand a chance.

Replied on Sun, Jan 07, 2024 at 07:26 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I don't know what Prime plans to haul for product, but if they haul much grain the lease guys don't stand a chance."

Take this with a grain of sand, but I read the story in another forum. One of Prime's tanker customers was having trouble getting consistant hopper loads into their facility which was hurting Prime's tank division, so Prime "stepped up" to fill that gap.

Translation. Prime's customer was paying rates so low that even the $1 a mile guys refused to haul it. So now prime is going to haul it those cheap loads no one else would touch.

If the rates are anywhere in the ballpark of current rates, someone will haul it. Those rates must have been so bad that no one would touch that freight.

Replied on Sun, Jan 07, 2024 at 07:26 AM CST
Jb hunt has been at it for
Replied on Mon, Jan 08, 2024 at 10:07 AM CST

Good morning all, I'm delaing with frozen loads this morning & can't help wonder how Prime will deal with these issuses that take a little work to get through.

Replied on Tue, Jan 09, 2024 at 07:00 AM CST
Seem like everything is in volume, big company running for less takin a l Little hit then taking over the next year
Replied on Wed, Jan 10, 2024 at 06:47 PM CST
Quote: "Several years ago Werner Enterproses had a hopper division. It didn't last long. "

This guy is a imposter I've been Cow Chow Express since 1996. I sure wish these guys would stop using names that's not there's.

Replied on Thu, Jan 11, 2024 at 07:00 AM CST
Quote: "This guy is a imposter I've been Cow Chow Express since 1996. I sure wish these guys would stop using names that's not there's. "

I filed my LLC Cow Chow Express in 2017. So I guess we're both doing ok.

Replied on Wed, Feb 07, 2024 at 01:31 PM CST
+ 4
Seen my first rate cutting Prime Hopper at Stuttgart yesterday. Loading hulls going to Purina. So I guess that’s one of their big corporate low paying companies they haul for. Don’t know about the rest of yall but seeing that makes me sick. The driver has his little new world order hunting vest, his hard hat and his flip flops on and no clue how to get the load shook down so he could roll his tarp and I wasn’t volunteering any knowledge
Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 07:08 AM CST
+ 2
Wait till summer hits and their drivers gotta self u load the sticky aggregates anfmd feed products with their little 80K gross max tonnage, the guys with 7 axles will always win in the bulk industry. Also their new casscadias will last about 50K miles running in the sometimes dirty conditions related to bulk loads. I'm not too worried. Remember our customers don't like to deal with mega carrier and dispatcher B.S. any more than the drivers do. My 2 cents. Please feel free to add to this reply
Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 07:08 AM CST

I think they said they bought 25 hoppers, it won't last long IMO

Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 07:50 AM CST
Quote: "I think they said they bought 25 hoppers, it won't last long IMO"

400 on order what i heard

Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 08:18 AM CST
Quote: "It will be interesting to watch when summer comes and those sticky commodities won't flow. Get the popcorn ready πŸ˜€"

let the ****show begin on that

Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 09:44 AM CST

I have seen a few of them further South.

Replied on Mon, Feb 19, 2024 at 10:59 AM CST
+ 2
Quote: "400 on order what i heard"

I heard Prime was abandoning all of their dry van, reefer, and flatbed divisions and going Hopper with all 6000 of their trucks.

Replied on Tue, Feb 20, 2024 at 07:06 AM CST
+ 1

I seen a Prime hopper being pulled by a lease operator for the first time a couple weeks ago around Danville, IL. The trailers are specced out well, but look kinda dumb with the Prime Inc logo on the side..... I believe that's also the same day I unloaded DDG in Joliet next to a hopper jockey wearing pajamas.... It's definitely not the usual ag crowd running hoppers these days.

Replied on Tue, Feb 20, 2024 at 07:06 AM CST
Quote: "Wait till summer hits and their drivers gotta self u load the sticky aggregates anfmd feed products with their little 80K gross max tonnage, the guys with 7 axles will always win in the bulk industry. Also their new casscadias will last about 50K miles running in the sometimes dirty conditions related to bulk loads. I'm not too worried. Remember our customers don't like to deal with mega carrier and dispatcher B.S. any more than the drivers do. My 2 cents. Please feel free to add to this reply"

Why can’t Cascadia’s operate in dirty conditions?
Replied on Tue, Feb 20, 2024 at 09:35 AM CST
+ 1

They are in Indiana at Bunge Morristown plant .... I'm sure they will drive the rates even lower than they are now ...It's Terrible!!!

Replied on Tue, Feb 20, 2024 at 04:21 PM CST
- 1
Quote: "I heard Prime was abandoning all of their dry van, reefer, and flatbed divisions and going Hopper with all 6000 of their trucks. "

Yea, keeping their tanks too.πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚

Replied on Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 07:12 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I heard Prime was abandoning all of their dry van, reefer, and flatbed divisions and going Hopper with all 6000 of their trucks. "

Maybe I should put a reefer unit on my walking floor...

Replied on Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 07:12 AM CST
+ 1 - 1
Quote: "Why can’t Cascadia’s operate in dirty conditions?"

New plastic emmesions trucks don't do well in the bulk industry, take a look at all the Pete's and cats you see running 7 axles hoppers trucks. That's only way bulk even sort of worth it, emmesions trucks will leave u in the shop when they load at these dirty facilities. C'mon now. Have you ever loaded or unloaded a hopper?
Replied on Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 02:14 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I heard Prime was abandoning all of their dry van, reefer, and flatbed divisions and going Hopper with all 6000 of their trucks. "

I heard that their drivers are figuring out hopper at 80K gross doesn't pay and they all want off the hopper division now. None of them want to unload aggregates. Any bulk load co knows grain don't pay... sure we all haul some to fill in the blanks. But to jump into buying brand new hoppers just cuz you got a big grain contract is Ludacris I also heard that 3 prime drivers got fired for filming grain terminals process and intellectual property. Bulk customers don't like cameras they don't control filming on their private property. Bulk 101. Of course prime drivers gonna screw that up. Are they a trucking company or a YT company. I can't figure it out. Lol
Replied on Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 02:14 PM CST
Quote: "Maybe I should put a reefer unit on my walking floor..."

If you figure that one out, let me know. I'll bring you my walking floors and we can cone up with a super backwards retrofit program. Lol.
Replied on Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 08:03 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I heard that their drivers are figuring out hopper at 80K gross doesn't pay and they all want off the hopper division now. None of them want to unload aggregates. Any bulk load co knows grain don't pay... sure we all haul some to fill in the blanks. But to jump into buying brand new hoppers just cuz you got a big grain contract is Ludacris I also heard that 3 prime drivers got fired for filming grain terminals process and intellectual property. Bulk customers don't like cameras they don't control filming on their private property. Bulk 101. Of course prime drivers gonna screw that up. Are they a trucking company or a YT company. I can't figure it out. Lol"

You want them to stop filming? But that is 90% of how they make money. Filiming and telling eveyrone how great Prime is so they can get a recruitment bonus. No joke, but I think it is requirement of Prime that every driver get on TikTok and Youtube and make videos of how great it is to work at Prime. If you don't allow them to film, they won't be able to eat.

Replied on Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 07:20 AM CST
+ 3
Quote: "You want them to stop filming? But that is 90% of how they make money. Filiming and telling eveyrone how great Prime is so they can get a recruitment bonus. No joke, but I think it is requirement of Prime that every driver get on TikTok and Youtube and make videos of how great it is to work at Prime. If you don't allow them to film, they won't be able to eat. "

I have never understood YouTube truckers that film their routes and lanes, tell you what hauling and also film on the private property of the shipper/receiver/terminal etc. Then they tell you the location and just completely give away everything about their business. Mega carriers understand nothing about discretion or bulk loads. I have gotten more contracts by putting a clause in my contracts that none of my drivers or anyone associated with my company will ever post any video of your location... bulk loads are different that way. It's just too much liability, I'm a seed company and have canceled contracts on drivers that show up with a go pro strapped to their heads... I take one look at that and tell em, nope your not hauling for me, we make our living providing logistics and products, not filming it. YT pays nothing anymore any way... why risk it? It's a stupid business decision to film the specifics. It would be no different than if a salesman showed app at your front door with a go. Pro strap to his forehead asking to come into your house. Would you let him in???
Replied on Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 07:20 AM CST
Quote: "New plastic emmesions trucks don't do well in the bulk industry, take a look at all the Pete's and cats you see running 7 axles hoppers trucks. That's only way bulk even sort of worth it, emmesions trucks will leave u in the shop when they load at these dirty facilities. C'mon now. Have you ever loaded or unloaded a hopper?"

At the time I bought my cascadia it had 400,000 miles on it. I've since put 250,000 miles on it hauling livestock and commodities without much trouble. No machine is trouble free. Changing air filters frequently and using an air hose to blow out the engine compartment and radiator is cheap and easy maintenance.

Also, some of the best paying bulk loads gross less than 80,000 pounds. 😎

Replied on Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 08:30 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "At the time I bought my cascadia it had 400,000 miles on it. I've since put 250,000 miles on it hauling livestock and commodities without much trouble. No machine is trouble free. Changing air filters frequently and using an air hose to blow out the engine compartment and radiator is cheap and easy maintenance. Also, some of the best paying bulk loads gross less than 80,000 pounds. 😎"

True, but when you get to direct customers the extra 7.5 tons makes bulk loads pay fairly well. Not saying new plastic truck can't haul a bulk load, just saying the majority of trucks you eee at terminals usually have pre emmisions cats or Detroit 60 series. I run west of Missouri river, kinda a diff world out here, a lot of map 21 and overload permits. That said, I've hauled some decent rates of much less than 50K net, you bet. Alot of loads get posted and don't figure in the overloads and extra axles... bulk loads should add somthing about that. If extra tonnage can be transported or somthing like that on the load info.
Replied on Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 08:31 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I have never understood YouTube truckers that film their routes and lanes, tell you what hauling and also film on the private property of the shipper/receiver/terminal etc. Then they tell you the location and just completely give away everything about their business. Mega carriers understand nothing about discretion or bulk loads. I have gotten more contracts by putting a clause in my contracts that none of my drivers or anyone associated with my company will ever post any video of your location... bulk loads are different that way. It's just too much liability, I'm a seed company and have canceled contracts on drivers that show up with a go pro strapped to their heads... I take one look at that and tell em, nope your not hauling for me, we make our living providing logistics and products, not filming it. YT pays nothing anymore any way... why risk it? It's a stupid business decision to film the specifics. It would be no different than if a salesman showed app at your front door with a go. Pro strap to his forehead asking to come into your house. Would you let him in???"

I completey understand what you are saying. This is very competitive business, and even more so since the covid influx and saturation of opportunists. But I wasn't being sarcastic about Prime drivers. I think they need that recruitment money to suppliment them. By they time they are done paying Prime to drive one of their trucks, recruitment bonuses are all they have.

I do not think they are on YT or Tiktok for monetization. I think they are there to get recruitment referrals. I have no idea how much money they make, but when your second job is recruiting for your employer, it can't be much.

I do not see your average Prime driver liking the dirty, gritty world of hopper bottom. Even when I did Bullrack and Flatbed, I did not get as dirty as in hopper.

Replied on Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 08:31 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "New plastic emmesions trucks don't do well in the bulk industry, take a look at all the Pete's and cats you see running 7 axles hoppers trucks. That's only way bulk even sort of worth it, emmesions trucks will leave u in the shop when they load at these dirty facilities. C'mon now. Have you ever loaded or unloaded a hopper?"

No I haven’t. But I run a small fleet in dusty cement mills and concrete plants with 2020-2024 trucks and have 0 issues.
Replied on Fri, Feb 23, 2024 at 07:34 AM CST
Quote: "True, but when you get to direct customers the extra 7.5 tons makes bulk loads pay fairly well. Not saying new plastic truck can't haul a bulk load, just saying the majority of trucks you eee at terminals usually have pre emmisions cats or Detroit 60 series. I run west of Missouri river, kinda a diff world out here, a lot of map 21 and overload permits. That said, I've hauled some decent rates of much less than 50K net, you bet. Alot of loads get posted and don't figure in the overloads and extra axles... bulk loads should add somthing about that. If extra tonnage can be transported or somthing like that on the load info."

I've run cattle as far west as Colorado with my plastic truck... I'm from Michigan where our legal gross weight is 164,000 pounds if you have the axles... I run interstate at 80,000 pounds because there's more work available. I used to own a truck with a CAT engine. It was nice until it needed parts.

Replied on Fri, Feb 23, 2024 at 07:36 PM CST
Quote: "I completey understand what you are saying. This is very competitive business, and even more so since the covid influx and saturation of opportunists. But I wasn't being sarcastic about Prime drivers. I think they need that recruitment money to suppliment them. By they time they are done paying Prime to drive one of their trucks, recruitment bonuses are all they have. I do not think they are on YT or Tiktok for monetization. I think they are there to get recruitment referrals. I have no idea how much money they make, but when your second job is recruiting for your employer, it can't be much. I do not see your average Prime driver liking the dirty, gritty world of hopper bottom. Even when I did Bullrack and Flatbed, I did not get as dirty as in hopper. "

This guy knows true bulk loads. You a carrier? I have loads i put out and own my own trucks. Seasonal push as planting season approaches That's too bad about Prime, that's why they are such an easy target. Nobody is getting rich out here right now, but there are ways to make bulk loads pay a much better way. I'm new here. Bulk loads doesn't have the overload extra. Axles thing figured out. It appears to me the market here is simply dictated by 80K gross or aboit 50K net hopper loads. That's such an inneficenty. Direct customers really like the extended trucks with pusher and trip are trailers. They have to deal with less trucks to get the same tonnage. I'm suprosed bulk loads doesn't have a heavy lane or a heavy permit lane?
Replied on Fri, Feb 23, 2024 at 07:39 PM CST
Quote: "No I haven’t. But I run a small fleet in dusty cement mills and concrete plants with 2020-2024 trucks and have 0 issues."

What brand of truck are you running with what motor? Are they DPF trucks? If you found a brand that stays running I'll go buy 1 tomorrow. Thanks!
Replied on Fri, Feb 23, 2024 at 07:40 PM CST
Quote: "I've run cattle as far west as Colorado with my plastic truck... I'm from Michigan where our legal gross weight is 164,000 pounds if you have the axles... I run interstate at 80,000 pounds because there's more work available. I used to own a truck with a CAT engine. It was nice until it needed parts. "

I've always wondered how the gross weight works in Michigan. I've always wondered why the theory doesn't spread to more markets? Moat places I go the scales max out at 120K total gross. Why don't we run more b trains in the Midwest on 15 axles? Genuine curious. How much red tape comes with actually running those 165K loads? And yea cats are expensive, because their worth it, especially if you have on you rebuilt yourself and trust and can work on it myself (a little) interested in Michigan experience Thanks
Replied on Sun, Feb 25, 2024 at 07:55 AM CST
Quote: "I've always wondered how the gross weight works in Michigan. I've always wondered why the theory doesn't spread to more markets? Moat places I go the scales max out at 120K total gross. Why don't we run more b trains in the Midwest on 15 axles? Genuine curious. How much red tape comes with actually running those 165K loads? And yea cats are expensive, because their worth it, especially if you have on you rebuilt yourself and trust and can work on it myself (a little) interested in Michigan experience Thanks"

The 164,000 max gross in Michigan is probably a thing for a few reasons. A) Michigan's auto industry, steel and car parts are heavy. B) Close proximity to Canada where they commonly run heavier than the U.S. C) A lot of our state is very rural north of about Grand Rapids. I live 2 miles from the Indiana border so there's no reason to run a bunch of axles because Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois are 80,000 pound states unless you get a permit. All that being said, our roads are some of the worst in the country.

My personal feelings on weight is if you have to run overloaded to make a living you are doing it wrong. I do believe the U.S should and eventually will go to 90,000 max gross with a tridem or triple trailer set up. I think it's in the DOT study phase at the moment.

Replied on Sun, Feb 25, 2024 at 08:09 PM CST
Quote: "The 164,000 max gross in Michigan is probably a thing for a few reasons. A) Michigan's auto industry, steel and car parts are heavy. B) Close proximity to Canada where they commonly run heavier than the U.S. C) A lot of our state is very rural north of about Grand Rapids. I live 2 miles from the Indiana border so there's no reason to run a bunch of axles because Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois are 80,000 pound states unless you get a permit. All that being said, our roads are some of the worst in the country. My personal feelings on weight is if you have to run overloaded to make a living you are doing it wrong. I do believe the U.S should and eventually will go to 90,000 max gross with a tridem or triple trailer set up. I think it's in the DOT study phase at the moment. "

I hope they do not increase federal weight ratings. It will be of no benefit to carriers, who will end up just having to divide their desired revenue on a lane by an additional 5 tons. The end result will be lower per ton revenue metrics and not increased revenue.

Replied on Sun, Feb 25, 2024 at 08:09 PM CST
Quote: "What brand of truck are you running with what motor? Are they DPF trucks? If you found a brand that stays running I'll go buy 1 tomorrow. Thanks!"

I run 3 Macks and 3 Peterbilt 579 models. They hold up great. I do not see any connection to "plastic" style trucks vs classic body styles have any impact on intake air filtration, nor do I see how it would impact DPFs or emissions components. If dust is making it through the entire intake, combustion and exhaust cycles, you have a major air intake leak and have bigger problems than a DPF. Oil sampling is the best way to ensure there is no such problem. Dust should be getting caught at the intake filter, end of story, and dirty filters only lead to air restriction, not dust getting through. Dirty filters actually provide better filtration than clean filters. It's just lack of air getting through that becomes the problem for the engine. Lowered air flow could in theory impact emissions by causing less complete combustion, leading to increased soot in the engine and then the DPF, but even in old engines that will cause carbon packing and other issues, so keeping filters clean matters regardless. Emissions won't be impacted if air restriction is prevented.

Replied on Tue, Feb 27, 2024 at 07:36 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I hope they do not increase federal weight ratings. It will be of no benefit to carriers, who will end up just having to divide their desired revenue on a lane by an additional 5 tons. The end result will be lower per ton revenue metrics and not increased revenue."

i have a calculator that disagrees, and years of gross and net revenue that also disagree. I do understand that permitting over 80K is not possible in a lot of eastern markets unless your straight up farm plated. i would say 95K permitted loads are small minority of all bulk loads, but when the lane is there why not take advantage of it? You dont get paid less per ton, when paid by weight or tonnage more tons = more $ the ROI for the added cost for extra axles is like 6 months tops if your regulary hauling 95K gross loads. And if your into hauling some grain at harvest you can haul alot more safely from the field to the ethanol plant and that makes short grain runs at harvest pay as well as putting it on the road. If your paid by the mile it is what it is. I guess i dont understand where your coming up with how hauling more tonnage will decrease revenue? Thinking it will result in less loads is a short sighted view that wont keep direct customers. Customers like the best value, time is value and money. Delevering the same tonnage on less trucks is a win win for the carrier and the buyer/ end user

not talking about changing any federal weight ratings, talking about specific permitted 95K gross 7 axle lanes to diret customers that have the need or want. Bulk loads themselves called me about my post about heavy permit lanes and helping carriers permit for 95K with extra axles was a good idea to look into (where it would work) for the load board. Keep in mind we pay for the permits that adds revenue to the states DOT.

Replied on Tue, Feb 27, 2024 at 07:36 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I run 3 Macks and 3 Peterbilt 579 models. They hold up great. I do not see any connection to "plastic" style trucks vs classic body styles have any impact on intake air filtration, nor do I see how it would impact DPFs or emissions components. If dust is making it through the entire intake, combustion and exhaust cycles, you have a major air intake leak and have bigger problems than a DPF. Oil sampling is the best way to ensure there is no such problem. Dust should be getting caught at the intake filter, end of story, and dirty filters only lead to air restriction, not dust getting through. Dirty filters actually provide better filtration than clean filters. It's just lack of air getting through that becomes the problem for the engine. Lowered air flow could in theory impact emissions by causing less complete combustion, leading to increased soot in the engine and then the DPF, but even in old engines that will cause carbon packing and other issues, so keeping filters clean matters regardless. Emissions won't be impacted if air restriction is prevented. "

I would believe the Macks are capable of handling it. I rebuild Cats and trucks for a living, pretty sure i got the air cleaner part of the equation figured. As you explain that dirty conditions do actually effect the emmisions systems more than a non emmisions engine (in theory) i appreciate your reply, are you running cummins or a paccar in the new Petes? assume the Macks run the MP 8 engine? I dont think the body style has anything to with it, i refer to new emmisions trucks as "plastic" ive never owned a good one that wasnt down 4 months a year with emmisons systems issues. Even when under warranty, you get to argue with the warranty dept and your loosing revenue being down and not delivering if you have direct customers that rely on your timely deliveries, you gotta hire out the loads on a load board! Just been my experience that Cats are still king in the bulk lane. I have driven a 2020 mack and really liked it. would you say Mack is perhaps the best new emmisions truck built??? I see alot Mack day cabs delivering bulk loads in my area

Thanks

Replied on Wed, Feb 28, 2024 at 07:11 AM CST
Quote: "i have a calculator that disagrees, and years of gross and net revenue that also disagree. I do understand that permitting over 80K is not possible in a lot of eastern markets unless your straight up farm plated. i would say 95K permitted loads are small minority of all bulk loads, but when the lane is there why not take advantage of it? You dont get paid less per ton, when paid by weight or tonnage more tons = more $ the ROI for the added cost for extra axles is like 6 months tops if your regulary hauling 95K gross loads. And if your into hauling some grain at harvest you can haul alot more safely from the field to the ethanol plant and that makes short grain runs at harvest pay as well as putting it on the road. If your paid by the mile it is what it is. I guess i dont understand where your coming up with how hauling more tonnage will decrease revenue? Thinking it will result in less loads is a short sighted view that wont keep direct customers. Customers like the best value, time is value and money. Delevering the same tonnage on less trucks is a win win for the carrier and the buyer/ end user not talking about changing any federal weight ratings, talking about specific permitted 95K gross 7 axle lanes to diret customers that have the need or want. Bulk loads themselves called me about my post about heavy permit lanes and helping carriers permit for 95K with extra axles was a good idea to look into (where it would work) for the load board. Keep in mind we pay for the permits that adds revenue to the states DOT. "

I have no experience running over 80k as it isn't legal in my operating region (PA, NJ, DE, MD). I have however spoken to guys who run very heavy in overweight states like Michigan, and the revenue numbers on a per ton level are considerably lower than mine. I think whether or not it leads to added revenue, or as I have expressed, lower per ton rates, would come down to the specific area. If 95k is the standard and the majority of carriers run it, I absolutely believe that would results in customer savings via lower per ton rates as carriers would need to be competetive in a 95k environment. They wouldn't be able to budget 80k and pocket the extra 15 if every competitor was also hauling 95k. However, if 80k is standard but 95k possible, then yes, I would think it results in extra revenue/profit to the carrier. Right or wrong, this perspective explains why I would not want to see large scale regulation upping weight limits that would make higher weights the standard and not the bonus.

Replied on Wed, Feb 28, 2024 at 07:13 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "I would believe the Macks are capable of handling it. I rebuild Cats and trucks for a living, pretty sure i got the air cleaner part of the equation figured. As you explain that dirty conditions do actually effect the emmisions systems more than a non emmisions engine (in theory) i appreciate your reply, are you running cummins or a paccar in the new Petes? assume the Macks run the MP 8 engine? I dont think the body style has anything to with it, i refer to new emmisions trucks as "plastic" ive never owned a good one that wasnt down 4 months a year with emmisons systems issues. Even when under warranty, you get to argue with the warranty dept and your loosing revenue being down and not delivering if you have direct customers that rely on your timely deliveries, you gotta hire out the loads on a load board! Just been my experience that Cats are still king in the bulk lane. I have driven a 2020 mack and really liked it. would you say Mack is perhaps the best new emmisions truck built??? I see alot Mack day cabs delivering bulk loads in my area Thanks "

Understood on your "plastic truck" comment. Many people refer to trucks with sloped hoods as plastic trucks and belive a 389 is tougher just because it looks tougher. The Macks actually have the 11 liter MP7 for weight savings. We are also local, so they perform very well in that evironment as they are extremely responsive. The 579s also have the 11 liter Paccar MX-11 engines. 85% of my business is direct customer and I can honestly say that in 4.5 years, we have never missed a load due to emissions. It isn't that they have been perfect, but any issue that has come up such as a sensor or rubbed wire has been fixed within a couple hours. I owe that to my local Mack dealer that I have a great relationship with. They are fantastic. They're troubleshooting is extremely impressive and their parts inventory is second to none. I NEVER wait on parts for Mack. As for warranties, I know your experiences are commonly expressed, but I can say I've ever had issues with warranty coverage or it causing delays. The dealer gets everything approved ASAP and they have enough experience to know what will and won't get approved if there is any question. They can also perform the work before getting approval and submit for warranty after the fact. If there is an uncertainty, I let them know I will pay it warranty does not. Mack gives their dealership shops great liberty and it makes all the difference in the world. The same cannot be said for Peterbilt. Brining the trucks in there is cringeworthy, and it is not my dealerhips's fault, as they get the truck right in every time. I don't think Paccar let's them turn one bolt without first telling them to do so. It isn't getting the work approved, as that has never been an issue. It's the dealer having to strictly follow Paccar procedures on every diagnosis and repair, and it's not just published procedures they have to follow. Lots of time is lost waiting to hear from Paccar for specific insutructions. The other big struggle with Peterbilt is that they don't stock anything. I legit waited 2 days recently for them to get Diesel Kleen in stock as part of a recall injector flush and reprogramming. I didn't realize is was Diesel Kleen until after the fact. I was livid but not surprised. They have to order everything, nothing is ever in stock. It has been very frustrating and will likely lead me away from Paccar in the future. That said, I haven't any emissions issues with those trucks, granted they are still very new.

What years did you have with emissions? Recent years they have really got it figured out pretty well, but earlier years were a disaster for sure.

Replied on Thu, Feb 29, 2024 at 11:41 AM CST
Quote: "Understood on your "plastic truck" comment. Many people refer to trucks with sloped hoods as plastic trucks and belive a 389 is tougher just because it looks tougher. The Macks actually have the 11 liter MP7 for weight savings. We are also local, so they perform very well in that evironment as they are extremely responsive. The 579s also have the 11 liter Paccar MX-11 engines. 85% of my business is direct customer and I can honestly say that in 4.5 years, we have never missed a load due to emissions. It isn't that they have been perfect, but any issue that has come up such as a sensor or rubbed wire has been fixed within a couple hours. I owe that to my local Mack dealer that I have a great relationship with. They are fantastic. They're troubleshooting is extremely impressive and their parts inventory is second to none. I NEVER wait on parts for Mack. As for warranties, I know your experiences are commonly expressed, but I can say I've ever had issues with warranty coverage or it causing delays. The dealer gets everything approved ASAP and they have enough experience to know what will and won't get approved if there is any question. They can also perform the work before getting approval and submit for warranty after the fact. If there is an uncertainty, I let them know I will pay it warranty does not. Mack gives their dealership shops great liberty and it makes all the difference in the world. The same cannot be said for Peterbilt. Brining the trucks in there is cringeworthy, and it is not my dealerhips's fault, as they get the truck right in every time. I don't think Paccar let's them turn one bolt without first telling them to do so. It isn't getting the work approved, as that has never been an issue. It's the dealer having to strictly follow Paccar procedures on every diagnosis and repair, and it's not just published procedures they have to follow. Lots of time is lost waiting to hear from Paccar for specific insutructions. The other big struggle with Peterbilt is that they don't stock anything. I legit waited 2 days recently for them to get Diesel Kleen in stock as part of a recall injector flush and reprogramming. I didn't realize is was Diesel Kleen until after the fact. I was livid but not surprised. They have to order everything, nothing is ever in stock. It has been very frustrating and will likely lead me away from Paccar in the future. That said, I haven't any emissions issues with those trucks, granted they are still very new. What years did you have with emissions? Recent years they have really got it figured out pretty well, but earlier years were a disaster for sure."

2014-2020 Cummins ISX and a 2016 Paccar that I literally made 3 runs with in 6 months (in the shop) Cummins has lost my business I hear tue new X15 is supposed to be better, but it seems all these emmisons engines need inframed at 500K miles. Too much soot recirculation... It would be good if they've finally got the systems somewhat figured out in 2022-2024. I haven't tried a new emmisons truck since 2020. I have heard alot of good things about Mack. I see alot of brand new or newish Mack day cabs running hoppers and bulk loads in my area. That's about the only emmisons new Truck I see loading or unloading. I did Have a Casscadia with a DD15 that the motor was OK, but the rest of the truck... ehhhh. I duno about the new casscadias. Don't call em freightshakers for nothing. Thanks
Replied on Thu, Feb 29, 2024 at 12:25 PM CST
Quote: "2014-2020 Cummins ISX and a 2016 Paccar that I literally made 3 runs with in 6 months (in the shop) Cummins has lost my business I hear tue new X15 is supposed to be better, but it seems all these emmisons engines need inframed at 500K miles. Too much soot recirculation... It would be good if they've finally got the systems somewhat figured out in 2022-2024. I haven't tried a new emmisons truck since 2020. I have heard alot of good things about Mack. I see alot of brand new or newish Mack day cabs running hoppers and bulk loads in my area. That's about the only emmisons new Truck I see loading or unloading. I did Have a Casscadia with a DD15 that the motor was OK, but the rest of the truck... ehhhh. I duno about the new casscadias. Don't call em freightshakers for nothing. Thanks"

The most popular truck sold in recent years (Casscadia). You must have gotten a bad one.

Replied on Thu, Feb 29, 2024 at 01:41 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "The most popular truck sold in recent years (Casscadia). You must have gotten a bad one."

they are the honda civic or toyota corola of the trucking industry on the highway, they are everywhere. ive got one 2014 flat top with a non def engine and its is just the worst riding plastic cab rattling truck ive ever driven. it has a cummins delete, only reason i kept it, They are a very common truck. they apperantly are the go to truck for mega carriers on the highway, ive found they dont do to well hauling gravel road farm loads, if you swap out the front axle and get rid of all the skirts, get new tires etc they can become a bulk hauler, but they generally dont come that way. I thought the DD15 was the "best emmissions" motor (if that makes sense) i ever ran but the rest of the truck was a rattling plastic box from the factory and had tons of wiring/ shifting issues, they didnt finish the wiring from the factory apperantly so the dealership i bought it from finished wiring, if it only had 1 check engine light on you were good, it usually had 2 check engine lights on, then it went into shop. usually just a harness or sensor, these new trucks have way too many sensors tied into the whole system that derates the truck in my opinion. I cant wait to see the new emmisions systems they come out with in 2028! lol those trucks are going to be fun! this current generation (2018-2027) of emmisions truck will become the new gliders!

Replied on Sat, Mar 02, 2024 at 08:13 AM CST
Quote: "I've always wondered how the gross weight works in Michigan. I've always wondered why the theory doesn't spread to more markets? Moat places I go the scales max out at 120K total gross. Why don't we run more b trains in the Midwest on 15 axles? Genuine curious. How much red tape comes with actually running those 165K loads? And yea cats are expensive, because their worth it, especially if you have on you rebuilt yourself and trust and can work on it myself (a little) interested in Michigan experience Thanks"

I spent a couple years running 161,000 of raw milk, in an 8 axle truck. In my opinion, on winter roads the are rather dangerous. If you lose traction the trailer will run through you and take you for a ride. To manage I'd keep 1,2 and 8 up, so that you might recover. Don't worry about the weight.

Replied on Sun, Mar 03, 2024 at 02:23 PM CST
Quote: "Maybe I should put a reefer unit on my walking floor..."

There is an Amish shop just outside Arthur Illinois that can put a reefer chiller on anything but they do mainly milk farms that i used to pickup😁😁😁
Replied on Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 08:16 PM CST
Now they are in Nevada. Spotted Thursday in Tonapah Nevada
Replied on Thu, Mar 21, 2024 at 01:26 PM CST
I just saw a prime hopper in Pennsylvania
Replied on Fri, Mar 22, 2024 at 02:02 PM CST
Quote: "Several years ago Werner Enterproses had a hopper division. It didn't last long. "

To clarify this comment. Werner had a Dedicated account that ran hopper trailers. They did not have a hopper division. They did lose the account, and sold the trailers.

Replied on Thu, Mar 28, 2024 at 01:38 PM CST
This driver said they're hauling blood meal into NY out of MS
Replied on Sun, Apr 21, 2024 at 08:24 AM CST
+ 1
Hopper bottom is not for every one. Lots of labor hard labor. That's why no one lasts unless you're an owner operator...
Replied on Sun, Apr 21, 2024 at 02:25 PM CST
- 1
Quote: "Hopper bottom is not for every one. Lots of labor hard labor. That's why no one lasts unless you're an owner operator..."

It's only hard labor if you haul the wrong products. Hoppers are best for dry bulk commodities. If you haul higher moisture feed ingredients with a hopper for the belt, or end dump premium you will get "Lots of labor, hard labor." πŸ˜„

Replied on Mon, Apr 22, 2024 at 03:57 PM CST
+ 1
Quote: "Yessir seen prime hopper in South Dakota"

I seen them in nc...
Replied on Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 02:03 PM CST
Quote: "Will they do the typical outlaw stuff like everyone has come to expect? Run grossly overweight? Cheat on HOS? Hire South African farm laborer? Run farm plates for commercial hauling?"

If they are not doing what every one else does, does that make them the dumb ones ? maybe you guys that do all the illegal stuff are the ones that ruin your business, if you all said NO and stuck together then you can control the rates and weights you haul, or this a case of truckers screwing truckers, call them out or you condone what they are doing, you are running a business act like it. we started in 1976 and have worked all the world and seen it all almost and it's always just a few losers that screw things up, and they always fail and I am a firm believer in helping them get there, provide better service better equipment the customer will always pay better for better service but if you deliver the same then you will never get paid better.

Replied on Thu, May 02, 2024 at 02:01 PM CST

They been cutting the shits out of rates

Replied on Thu, May 23, 2024 at 08:09 PM CST

Ran out of a farm in western KY for the last two weeks, it started with one Prime truck and the last day I hauled there were 6 there, the elevator operator was laughing as about half of them didn't know what they had on.

None the less my load numbers ran out and there were 10 loads left and the Prime teucks had them

Replied on Sat, May 25, 2024 at 07:17 AM CST

Sure seems like a lot whining about a bunch of freight that is cheap according those doing all the whining, instead of complaining about the freight rate find something that pays better I don't understand the mentality of thinking your a slave to hauling a specific freight that you know is cheap ?? then complain about it ? or do like the Mega carrier and become really good at what you do and that is squeeze every dollar of profit out of nothing and don't go the chrome shop ?

Replied on Fri, May 31, 2024 at 07:35 AM CST
+ 1
Quote: "Sure seems like a lot whining about a bunch of freight that is cheap according those doing all the whining, instead of complaining about the freight rate find something that pays better I don't understand the mentality of thinking your a slave to hauling a specific freight that you know is cheap ?? then complain about it ? or do like the Mega carrier and become really good at what you do and that is squeeze every dollar of profit out of nothing and don't go the chrome shop ? "

Hey man, "Chrome looks good sitting at home" I wouldn't haul a load I've seen on a load board for over a year. It's all direct in the hopper/ bulk lane. Good bulk haulers have Walking floor trailers, hoppers, end dumps, belt conveyer, a dry van or 2 for moving bulk aggregates and seed packaged in 2000 Lb pallets. A liquid tanker, a pneumatic set up if you want to totally service customers. Companies will pay a fair rate if you just solve their logistic problems. The Logistics "managers' broker shippers carriers" unfortunately have set a low bar for competence in many cases. We come in and cut thru the red tape and provide Hassel free, turn key services to bulk load customers. If you have a truck and understand this, I'm always looking for o/o to put under one my trailers or drive our trucks. (We have a lot of people accessories and wet kits etc) or if you have a truck and trailer (mainly hopper) shoot me a message were always expanding. About to need more trucks.
Replied on Tue, Jun 18, 2024 at 07:26 AM CST
Unfortunately they will not fight for you to get what you need to get paid for one of those loads you will get there they will run out of product you will not get paid for bouncing all that way Prime is doing nothing but hurting the hopper industry
Replied on Sun, Jun 30, 2024 at 08:39 PM CST
Quote: "Jb hunt has been at it for"

JB hunt is hauling logs in south Louisiana and south Mississippi I live in south Louisiana and I seen it a 6 mts. Ago