Rob Carpenter

Virginia, Williamsburg

Contributor at Freelance

Articles

What a Level 1 Inspection Looks Like (And How to Pass)

1 week ago | freightwaves.com | Rob Carpenter

Sometimes it’s easier to avoid a roadside inspection than to survive one. And I don’t mean ducking scales or pulling illegal U-turns, I mean giving inspectors no reason to stop you in the first place. A clean truck, proper paperwork and professional presence go further than most realize when it comes to passing, or avoiding, enforcement during CVSA blitzes. Next week, from May 14-16, the annual CVSA International Roadcheck begins.
AB5, Broker Bonds & You: A Simple Breakdown for Fleets

1 week ago | freightwaves.com | Rob Carpenter

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need my own broker bond?” or “What does this AB5 stuff mean for me now that I’m running under my own authority?” you’re not alone. It’s a lot to sort out between regulatory shifts, legal gray areas and the ever-blurring line between independent contractor and employee. So let’s make it easy. Here’s what AB5 and broker bonds mean for you, whether you’re behind the wheel or managing your first truck. What is AB5 and Why Should You Care?
What a Level 1 Inspection Looks Like (And How to Pass)

1 week ago | yahoo.com | Rob Carpenter

Sometimes it’s easier to avoid a roadside inspection than to survive one. And I don’t mean ducking scales or pulling illegal U-turns, I mean giving inspectors no reason to stop you in the first place. A clean truck, proper paperwork and professional presence go further than most realize when it comes to passing, or avoiding, enforcement during CVSA blitzes. Next week, from May 14-16, the annual CVSA International Roadcheck begins.
How construction fleets are rethinking safety in a high-risk world.

1 week ago | gomotive.com | Rob Carpenter

In construction, oil and gas, and other industries, risk shadows every worker, vehicle, and machine. Jobsites and roadways are crowded, unpredictable, and dangerous. A single breakdown can stall crews and hurt your bottom line. When heavy machinery sits idle, the cost of lost time hits payroll, deadlines, and your reputation. Fleets need to know where equipment is, how it’s performing, and when it needs service to keep projects and crews moving.
Trump’s Executive Order For Trucking Revives a Rule Nearly 90 Years Old

2 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Rob Carpenter

In 2025, the national conversation around English proficiency and trucking safety resurfaced with new intensity. Two executive orders, signed by President Donald Trump, renewed emphasis on English language requirements, both at a cultural level and at the level of commercial motor vehicle operations. On March 1, an executive order formally designated English as the official language of the United States.
Trump’s Executive Order For Trucking Revives a Rule Nearly 90 Years Old

2 weeks ago | freightwaves.com | Rob Carpenter

In 2025, the national conversation around English proficiency and trucking safety resurfaced with new intensity. Two executive orders, signed by President Donald Trump, renewed emphasis on English language requirements, both at a cultural level and at the level of commercial motor vehicle operations. On March 1, an executive order formally designated English as the official language of the United States.
Meet Bubba. The AI Voice Assistant Built for Truckers

2 weeks ago | freightwaves.com | Rob Carpenter

When it comes to trucking technology, most of us have learned the hard way that promises are cheap and real help is rare. That’s why, when I sat down with Tapan Chaudhari, the founder of Hey Bubba (Bubba.ai) in Austin, Texas, this week, I was skeptical. I’ve spent over 20 years behind the wheel, running fleets and freight, and I’ve seen a lot of technology come and go. Most of it was designed by people who have never hauled a load or negotiated with brokers over cheap freight.
Motive’s Vision 25 Conference Reimagines Fleet Safety Culture with AI and a Personal Touch

2 weeks ago | freightwaves.com | Rob Carpenter

At Motive’s Vision 25 Innovation Summit last week in Austin, Texas, the future of fleet management wasn’t just unveiled; it was driven home with the kind of grit, technology and culture that resonates with real fleet professionals. Over 850 fleet leaders, drivers and partners gathered to get a firsthand look at Motive’s newest AI-powered tools, live product showcases and industry panels focused on making physical operations safer, smarter and more human-centered.
How Fleets Can Stop Distracted Driving with AI-Powered Coaching

3 weeks ago | gomotive.com | Rob Carpenter

Every April, the National Safety Council (NSC) spotlights distracted driving as it continues to take lives and cost businesses millions. Enforcement focuses largely on use of cell phones, but distracted driving is more complex than many realize. Distraction at the wheel takes the driver’s focus off the important task at hand — driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,275 lives were lost due to distracted driving in 2023 alone.
How the Motive Driver App Supports Day-to-Day Fleet Operations

1 month ago | gomotive.com | Rob Carpenter

Day-to-day success hinges on seamless communication between frontline drivers and back-end management. And the Motive Driver App serves as the bridge between the two. Designed with both drivers and fleet managers in mind, the Motive Driver App (available on Apple and Android) transforms how fleets operate – simplifying compliance, streamlining workflows, and improving safety culture.