Montana's 2025 Road Fatalities and Fatal Crashes
Truck Tonnage Jumped in February, Along with Other Key Metrics – Except Retail
There was a plethora of key economic data released this week, with most showing a good February, rebounding from winter storms and wildfires in January. However, it wasn’t all good with retail sales showing there might be stress cracks starting to form with consumers.
Beginning with the trucking data, ATA reported on Tuesday that seasonally adjusted (that’s important) for-hire truck tonnage data, including both TL and LTL freight, jumped 3% over January. This was the largest monthly gain in several years. Like all of the other data reported below, this big jump was after seasonal adjustments, including normal freight patterns, holidays, and days in the month. The not seasonally adjusted data, which is what motor carriers should benchmark against, was off 4.7% from January. However, this dip was smaller than normal and expected considering all factors, hence the big seasonally adjusted jump. Compared with February 2024 tonnage rose 0.6% after increasing 0.3% in January. This was the first time tonnage has increased on a year-over-year basis for two consecutive months since January and February 2023. For more information, see ATA’s press release.
Fitting with this strong freight month, the Federal Reserve reported that factory output jumped 0.9% over January, which was the best monthly reading in a year. The level of manufacturing output reached the highest point since late 2022. While this is exciting for our industry to see such a strong month, it was probably due, in part, to accelerated production to beat tariffs and retaliatory tariffs. Auto production is scattered throughout North America, and thus would be hit hard by the tariffs proposed. This category (including heavy-duty truck production) saw production surge 8.5% in February, no doubt trying to accelerate production before tariffs. Absent tariffs, we are growing more optimistic about factory production, but with tariffs, especially the 25% ones that could hit Canada and Mexico April 2, we will likely downgrade our expectations this year.
Another key metric for truck volumes is housing starts, which jumped 11.2% over January. Single-family starts surged 11.4% to an annualized rate of 1.108 million, the highest level in a year. Some of the robust activity was likely catch-up from an unusually cold and snowy January.
Finally, and leaving the worst for last, unlike the other metrics, retail sales did not bounce back from a soft January in February. Total sales, including food service, only increased 0.2% in February after decreasing 1.2% in January. Total sales were up just 3.1% compared with February 2024, just barely outpacing inflation meaning in volume terms, sales were pretty flat. Lower income households have been under duress for some time now, but it appears economic uncertainty and falling stock valuations are permeating throughout other more affluent households too, which is something we will watch closely.
FMCSA's SMS Update
The FMCSA stressed that nothing is officially live yet, but click here to read more about it.
2024 Awards Applications!
We are accepting nominations for the 2024 Awards! Below are the four different categories and forms that can be applied for! You can also apply on our website. Please return completed forms to mwilliams@mttrucking.org by April 30, 2025
Save The Date!
Barry "Spook" Stang memorial Scholarship
MTA is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Barry 'Spook' Stang Memorial Scholarship for 2025-2026! This scholarship is for any new or returning student planning on attending a Montana College, University, Trade school or other educational institution. Student must be a dependent of or be employed by an MTA member. Application form can be found below or on our website!
Montana Truck Driving Championship!
The Montana Trucking Association is thrilled to invite your company to participate in the Montana Truck Driving Championship June 21, 2025 in Helena, MT! This event is an excellent opportunity to recognize and showcase your top drivers—those with extensive experience, outstanding skills, and a strong commitment to safety and professionalism.
The Championship is designed to test and celebrate the best in the industry. Here’s what your drivers can look forward to:
Written Exam: A challenge to assess their knowledge of safety regulations and industry best practices.
Walk-Around Inspection: A timed task to identify real-world mechanical and safety issues.
Obstacle Course: Drivers will navigate a demanding course tailored to their vehicle class, testing their precision and skill to the fullest.
We encourage you to send your most talented drivers to compete. This event not only highlights the exceptional talent within your company but also demonstrates your commitment to safety and excellence in the trucking industry.
Awards and Recognition:
Winners in each vehicle class will be honored at the Championship Banquet.
Special awards include Rookie of the Year (for first-time Championship attendees, regardless of road experience) and Grand Champion, awarded to the driver who excels across all competition levels.
See below for registration forms. We look forward to seeing your best drivers on the course this June!
Will's Safety Message
Staying Safe at New Heights: Preventing Falls in the Trucking Industry
Montana truckers are the backbone of our economy, embodying solid work ethics and an unwavering commitment to safety. To keep the wheels turning, we’re rolling out the next Safety Series—focusing on falls from elevation. Whether climbing up trailers, maintaining equipment, or handling cargo, staying grounded in safety practices keeps our industry moving forward.
Understanding the Risks:
Falls from elevation are among the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the trucking industry. Whether stepping out of a cab, climbing onto a trailer, or working on equipment, the risks are everywhere. But understanding where these falls occur and why they happen is the first step toward prevention.
Key Statistics:
According to OSHA, falls account for a significant portion of workplace fatalities each year, and the trucking industry is no exception.
Studies show that falls from trailers, loading docks, and ladders are among the most common culprits.
A single fall can lead to serious injuries, downtime, and costly workers' compensation claims.
Common Scenarios for Falls
Climbing In and Out of the Cab:
Missed steps or improper footing can result in a dangerous fall.
Rushing to enter or exit the vehicle without proper technique is a frequent cause.
Working on Elevated Surfaces:
Trailers, flatbeds, and tankers pose a challenge when drivers need to secure cargo or inspect equipment.
Wet or icy surfaces compound the risk.
Loading and Unloading Cargo:
Falls often occur on loading docks or while moving freight in uneven or cluttered areas.
Equipment Maintenance:
Accessing truck tops, tanks, or other high areas during maintenance work can expose drivers to serious hazards.
Key Risk Factors:
Environmental Hazards: Rain, snow, and ice create slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of falls.
Improper Techniques: Failing to use the three-point contact rule or rushing through tasks.
Lack of Equipment Maintenance: Damaged ladders, steps, or handholds can easily lead to falls.
Limited Training: Drivers may not be aware of the best practices for fall prevention.
By breaking down these stats and risk factors, we’ll lay the foundation for actionable steps in the weeks ahead. Prevention starts with awareness—and Montana truckers are always up to the challenge of making safety a top priority. Read next week’s safety message for more on preventing falls in trucking, and stay safe out there!
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