Trucking Industry Updates from River-Roads Sales & Leasing

This week (7/14/25), several updates are shaping the landscape, offering both challenges and opportunities for businesses like ours in St. Louis, Missouri. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead in the semi-trailer market.

NMFC Transition to Density-Based System

Starting July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) will shift to a density-based system, as announced by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). This change, highlighted by Clete Cordero, SEFL VP of Pricing & Traffic and NMFTA Chairman, aims to streamline freight classification, potentially impacting trailer selection for shippers. For River-Road’s customers, this underscores the importance of versatile trailers like our Wabash dry vans, truck bodies and reefers or specialized options from Travis, SmithCo and CTS, which can accommodate varying freight densities needs. Ensuring your fleet is equipped with the right trailers will be key to optimizing costs under this new system.

Freight Market Recovery Signals

Recent industry reports suggest the freight market is showing signs of recovery after the prolonged Great Freight Recession. According to OTR Solutions, tightening capacity and increased consumer spending could lead to higher freight volumes and better rates for carriers in 2025. For our clients, this upswing highlights the value of our large inventory of new and used trailers, including flatbeds, reefers, and chassis rentals, to meet growing demand. With freight opportunities on the rise, now is the time to explore our leasing options to scale your operations efficiently

Rising Costs and Tariff Impacts

Tariffs and rising material costs continue to influence the industry. ACT Research notes that component and raw material tariffs are increasing trailer prices by approximately $570 per unit, compressing fleet profitability. At River-Roads, we’re mitigating these challenges by offering competitive lease and rental rates on our diverse inventory, including Behnke, Side Dump Industries, and SmithCo trailers. Our partnerships with top manufacturers ensure you get high-quality equipment to navigate these economic pressures.

Regulatory Shifts and Compliance

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is intensifying enforcement of English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards, effective June 25, 2025, which could reduce trucking capacity by grounding non-compliant drivers. Additionally, roadside inspectors are considering new rules to combat electronic logging device (ELD) tampering. These regulations emphasize the need for reliable, compliant equipment. River-Roads’ state-of-the-art facility and AAA Trailer Service parts department ensure your trailers meet regulatory standards, keeping your operations running smoothly.

Opportunities in Electric and Sustainable Trailers

The push for sustainability continues, with the electric truck market projected to grow from $5.92 billion in 2025 to $38.76 billion by 2032. While electric semi-trucks are gaining traction, trailer design is also evolving to support sustainability goals. Our inventory, including storage containers and specialized trailers, can complement fleets transitioning to greener operations, aligning with industry trends and customer demands for eco-friendly solutions

Stay Ahead with River-Roads

As the trucking industry navigates these changes, River-Roads Sales & Leasing is here to support your business with top-quality trailers and personalized service. Visit our trailer inventory listing and bookmark the link for the latest trailer listings and industry updates and let us help you drive success in 2025.

Have questions or need assistance? Reach out to our team today at www.river-roads.com or visit us at 1520 E. Chain of Rocks Rd., Granite City, IL.