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]

Lawsuit seeks to halt FMCSA's non-domiciled CDL final rule

That latest filing in the case of owner-operator Jorge Rivera Lujan v. the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration asks for an emergency stay of the government's final rule restricting non-domiciled CDL eligibility, pending judicial review. Here access the full text of the petition for stay, summary of the arguments. FMCSA's rule will be effective March 16 if the court declines to act.

Derek Barrs, speaking during a general session Thursday, Feb. 26, at SC&RA symposium

FMCSA chief emphasizes aggressive approach to CDL qualifications

'55 needlenose Pete rebuilt with classic aviation style

Mosermackey Transport independent Adam Mackey runs his Oklahoma-headquartered one-truck business with disciplined authority and the 2007 Cat-powered Freightliner Columbia pictured. The owner-operator earns a semi-finalist slot for Overdrive's 2026 Trucker of the Year award.

When the mentored becomes the master: Trucker of the Month Adam Mackey

Test-drive with a New Jersey turn in Mack's all-new Pioneer

OTR trucker-songwriter Long Haul Paul's new 'After Party Sessions,' MATS show upcoming

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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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