POLL: Owner-ops, what's your biz outlook headed into 2026?

Dec 25, 2025

Updated Dec 30, 2025

The grille featured here is that of owner-operator Lucas Zach's project 2017 Peterbilt 389, featured back in September at this link with its paired Timpte hopper.

[Related: State of freight 'sluggish,' even amid spot spikes, capacity hits with ELP/CDL enforcement]

Vintage diesel fuel pump dispenser with blue housing and red warning label mounted on yellow base

IRS announces red-dyed diesel relief in effect -- is it worth it?

The IRS confirmed it will not impose penalties for using red-dyed diesel on-highway through the end of the year, as directed by the President. Yet many states aren't allowing the use of dyed diesel on-highway, and volume discounts for standard, non-dyed fuel in many cases beat federal relief at the pump.

Collection of seven semi-trucks in different colors parked in various outdoor settings

Add your truck to Overdrive's 'Reader Rigs' showcase

White Freightliner semi-truck navigating traffic cones during driver training course in parking lot

DOT blasts Overdrive's reporting on 'sham' CDL school reinstatements

Class A ELDT theory course promotion offering 3-hour CDLs training for $23, reduced from $65, with enroll button

White House's AI-powered CDL-mill purge is going down in flames

Vintage black semi-truck with chrome details and orange lights displayed at outdoor truck show

The ultimate Christmas present: A.J. Field's 1969 Peterbilt 358

Make a bill, pay the bill: Owner-ops 'only as good as their word' trucking OTR

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The Business Manual for Owner-Operators

Overdrive editors and ATBS present the industry’s best manual for prospective and committed owner-operators. You’ll find exceptional depth on many issues in the Partners in Business playbook.

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