February 2024
NMFTA Headline Newsletter
We’ve designed this newsletter to be a vehicle to communicate general trucking issues as well as National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)™ activities.
NMFC Docket 2024-1 Now Live
The Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) has recently published the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC)® 2024-1 Docket, which contains the notice of proposed amendments to the NMFC and ClassIT. As part of the Spring Meeting on March 11, the FCDC will discuss these potential changes to streamline freight classification and packaging.
If you are a participating LTL carrier, you are encouraged to attend the meeting. If you're a shipper or 3PL, you are encouraged to submit written comments by March 5.
For more information about how to submit, connect with Nicole Jones, classification support specialist at NMFTA, at nicole.jones@nmfta.org or by calling 571-527-2681.
Docket 2024-1 Summary
- Large generic heading overhauls
- The overhaul of the foodstuffs group is continued on the docket, consolidating even more of the items under the foodstuffs heading.
- The docket contains a large consolidation of both the Agricultural Implements, other than hand heading, as well as the Agricultural Implements, other than hand, parts heading.
- Other headings, both generic and subgeneric that are consolidated
- Conveyors, Elevators, Lifts, or Parts thereof
- Presses
- Household Utensils
- Vehicle Parts
- Various items are canceled and established for clarification and simplification
- Welders and Torches
- Pools and Pool Kits
- Coolers
- Radiotelephones; Cellular Telephones
- Various other clarifications and item updates
- Two proposals deferred from Docket 2023-3

Packaging is a Skill, Learn to Master It with the NMFTA
Starting May 14, 2024 | Online
NMFTA will be hosting its popular Packaging Webinar Series again in 2024 to educate carriers, shippers, 3PLs, and packaging professionals in understanding packaging and its relationship to motor freight classification and claims.
Demystifying the NMFC for Efficient Shipping
Starting April 9, 2024 | Online
Hoping to master the freight classification system in 2024? Join NMFTA's Classification Webinar Series 2, kicking off April 9, 2024, and conquer the NMFTA's updated classification system. Expert hosts, live Q&A, and practical tips - all you need to ensure accurate coding and avoid costly errors.
NMFTA Welcomes Back Nate Ripke
The organization has recently welcomed Nate Ripke as Director of Commodity and Standards Development. A former employee of NMFTA, Ripke will lead the strategy of simplifying the NMFC and enhancing the user experience of ClassIT in this newly created role.
"Nate's years of experience with the Classification at NMFTA and his most recent experience on the LTL carrier side with us make him a perfect fit to advise on the next phase of the Classification Reimagination. We value his diverse background because we know it ultimately helps the entire industry."
- Todd Polen, Vice President of Pricing Services, Old Dominion Freight Line and Board Member, NMFTA
Economic Predictions That Will Impact LTL in Q1
In case you missed it, Donald Broughton's economic outlook explores economic trends that will see an impact, for better or worse, on the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. Download the free report today to learn how these predictions will change how you do business.
C.H. Robinson Leads Industry With NMFTA's New eBOL Standard For Shipments
First and farthest in driving adoption, North America’s largest 3PL has implemented NMFTA’s eBOL standards with 10 of the top carriers for the benefit of over 17,000 customers.
Free Report:
Supply Chain Attacks Are On The Rise,
Shore Up Your Defenses Today
As the trucking industry increasingly relies on complex tech systems and interconnectedness with its rolling assets, the industry faces a unique set of challenges ahead in 2024.
Whether you're an IT or security professional, trucking executive, or fleet maintenance professional, the NMFTA's free 2024 Trucking Cybersecurity Trends Report has the insights that will assist you and your teams in navigating the unknown roads ahead.
Guardians of the Gateway: Unveiling API Security Secrets
Webinar On Demand
Watch API experts as they deep dive into OWASP API Security Top 10, a comprehensive guide to the most critical API security risks which was first released in 2019 and updated in 2023. Watch the recording to upskill and enhance your cybersecurity knowledge.
Are You Doing These 5 Things to Enhance Your API Security?
Webinar On Demand
Taking proactive steps to secure your APIs is essential for protecting your business, your customers, and your employees. Share this webinar recording with your IT team so they can implement these tactical strategies to keep the bad actors at bay.
Dates Announced for NMFTA's Cybersecurity Conference
October 27-29, Cleveland, OH
Mark your calendars! NMFTA has just announced that the 2024 NMFTA Cybersecurity Conference, formerly known as the Digital Solutions Conference on Cybersecurity, will be held October 27-29, 2024 at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown.
Fill out the form via the button below and be the first to know when registration officially opens for #NMFTACyber.
Community Spotlight

Lesley Veldstra Killingsworth
Congratulations to NMFTA Chairwoman, Lesley Veldstra Killingsworth, on her recent promotion to Polaris' vice president of pricing and market strategy.
As their director of pricing since 2016, Lesley has made a significant impact on Polaris’ growth, leveraging her expert insights and industry experience to spearhead our competitive pricing structures and expand our market reach across Canada and the USA.
Lesley is an 18-year veteran in the trucking industry, previously serving in director roles for reputable carriers and 3PL providers. For 12 years, she has been a member of the NMFTA and made history as their first chairwoman to join the board of directors in 2023.
Please join us in congratulating Lesley.

Tim Vander Pol
Congratulations to NMFTA's Past Chairman, Tim Vander Pol, on his recent promotion to president of the family-owned business, Peninsula Truck Lines. Tim has been with the company since 1998 serving in various roles, and will carry on the third-generation leadership of family-owned Peninsula Truck Lines.
Past President Brent Vander Pol has now moved to an advisory role and will continue to support the Peninsula management team in the coming year before stepping away in 2025.
Please join us in congratulating Tim.
(Pictured from left: Tim Vander Pol and Brent Vander Pol)
NMFTA On The Road
February 26 - March 1
San Diego, CA
NMFTA is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the upcoming Network and Distributed Security System (NDSS) Symposium 2024. Our Enterprise and Heavy Vehicle Cybersecurity (EHVC) team will share our cybersecurity research, upcoming webinar and conference, and more with attendees.
March 4-7
New Orleans, LA
The EHVC team is excited to attend the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual 2024 this year. They look forward to meeting all those in attendance.
March 23-26
Nashville, TN
NMFTA has secured a panel discussion, Cyber Security in Trucking Today panel at Truckload 2024. The EVHC team will talk about cybersecurity threats and the importance of resiliency with truckload professionals, industry suppliers, and other association professionals.
Conference Highlights:
NMFTA Shares Expertise On The Road
Digitization, eBOL Adoption, & more at SMC3
NMFTA made its mark at SMC³ this past January, highlighting digitization efforts, eBOL progress (57% industry revenue adopted!), and NMFC modernization plans. If you couldn't be there in person, read the blog below to discover what you missed at SMC3.
1 Jump Start Leadership Series: In the Fast Lane with NMFTA's Debbie Sparks.
Pictured from left: Bill Cassidy and Debbie Sparks.
2 Jump Start Leadership Series: In the Fast Lane with NMFTA's Debbie Sparks.
Pictured from left: Bill Cassidy and Debbie Sparks.
Insight, Innovation, & Ingenuity at Manifest
The business of transporting freight will always present intense challenges with high stakes. That’s never more apparent than when you gather 4,200 professionals in the industry to spend three days together. Read this blog to discover the key insights and trends we saw at Manifest.

Securing the Road Ahead: Navigating the Growing Cybersecurity Threats in the Supply Chain panel discussion at Manifest24, Las Vegas.
Pictured from left: Jim Mullen, Donald Hester, Steve Hankel, and Joe Ohr.
Industry News
CarriersEdge Announces Best Fleets to Drive For
These North American for-hire trucking companies are being recognized for providing the best workplace experiences for their company drivers and independent contractors. Read this article to discover who made the list.
Transportation Prices Grow For First Time in 19 Months, Survey Says
Transportation prices flipped to expansion for the first time in 19 months as retailers increase inventories, a Tuesday supply chain report said.
What is CVSA Focusing on in 2024 Roadcheck Truck Inspection Blitz?
This year’s annual Roadcheck inspection safety blitz, May 14-16, will focus on tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance possession.
FMCSA Looking for Input on Sexual Harassment in Trucking Industry
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is aiming to understand sexual assault and harassment in the trucking industry, particularly among female drivers, through a new study. This initiative, driven by the Women of Trucking Advisory Board, seeks to develop solutions to improve driver safety and encourage women's participation in the industry. If you have any information that could be of assistance, please submit feedback to the FMSCA RFI by March 11, 2024.
Cyber Threats Evolve Daily
"[Threat actors are] working on the next generation of ransomware attacks, phishing schemes, and denial-of-service attacks. They’re devising ways to use AI to generate deceptions and worm their way into enterprise systems. And they’re investing in new technology to help them do it all."
FMCSA Leader Robin Hutcheson Is Leaving Agency
Hutcheson first held the FMCSA post of deputy assistant secretary for safety policy within the Office of the Secretary before elevating to the agency’s top job. With her departure, the agency’s Executive Director and Chief Safety Officer Sue Lawless will serve as acting deputy administrator and lead the agency.
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