Insight

Truckers Keep America Moving – Especially in July

July is a month where we celebrate the history of our country—and it’s the perfect time to remember that trucking has always been part of that story. While folks are thinking fireworks and freedom, we’re thinking freight and fuel, because without trucks, America stops.

Powerful Highlights from Trucking History

Here are a few powerful highlights from trucking history that prove we’ve always been essential:

1. 1899 – Alexander Winton, a Scottish immigrant, invented the first semi-truck to haul cars. That innovation kickstarted the entire industry.
2. Early 1900s – Weight limits were introduced to protect roads from early trucks with iron wheels. Safety and structure have always mattered.
3. 1930s – Railroads ruled until trucks stepped up. By 1933, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) formed to protect our rights and advocate for drivers.
4. 1937 – The first national truck “Roadeo” (now the NTDC) tested skills and celebrated professional drivers.
5. 1938 – The first Hours of Service rules were created to keep drivers safe. These rules have evolved—but they started with the goal of protecting our time and our lives.
6. 1956 – The Interstate Highway System was launched, making long-haul trucking what it is today.
7. 1967 – The DOT was born. Love it or not, they’ve shaped modern driving regulations and safety.
8. 1980 – Deregulation gave trucking companies more freedom and flexibility through the second Motor Carrier Act.
9. 1998 – National Truck Driver Appreciation Week began, recognizing the sacrifices and hard work truckers put in daily.
10. Post-9/11 – HazMat regulations tightened, showing how deeply trucking is connected to national security.

So, while we celebrate America’s independence this July, let’s also take a moment to honor the men and women behind the wheel—the ones who keep the shelves stocked, fuel moving, and this country running.

History built this nation—but trucks have kept it moving.