Sharing what they learned from challenging economic times was the spirit of a panel discussion at the Commercial Vehicle Outlook Conference last week in Dallas. Various fleet executives shared their strategies, which ultimately helped them survive, as well as what they’re preparing for in the future. One of the biggest lessons–and maybe even silver linings–from the recession is that it forced carriers and other businesses to trim all the fat from their operations. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t more challenges ahead. The executives agreed that the driver shortage would continue to be problematic, exacerbated by regulations like CSA 2010. Providing drivers with amenities like electronic on-board recorders will also be key in protecting their safety, as well as the company’s.

A panel of fleet executives talked about the changes they made to their operations during the recent recession, what they are doing today during the transition and what they see for the future in terms of the cost and productivity challenges they will face.

Max Fuller, co-chairman of U.S. Xpress; Leo Suggs, chairman and chief executive officer of Greatwide Logistics Services; and Tom Kretsinger, president and CEO of American Central Transport, shared their strategies and ideas in a panel discussion moderated by Avery Vise, editorial director of Commercial Carrier Journal, Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service during the Commercial Vehicle Outlook Conference.

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