Happy National Transportation Week!

What is National Transportation Week??

In 1946, then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed into law the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 creating our nation’s system of interstate highways. In recognition of the men and women who work in the transportation industry, on May 16, 1957, Congress designated the third Friday of May each year as “National Defense Transportation Day”. In 1962, Congress included the whole week within which the Friday falls as National Transportation Week. A proclamation is signed each year by the current President of the United States.?

Why is it important??

I take a great deal of pride in Sparrow’s business and the representation we bring to truck drivers, trucking companies, and the transportation industry. Transportation is a vital function of our infrastructure, and our economy depends on it. This day highlights the importance of having well-paved and clean roads with access for large semi-trucks to rural areas to ensure all Americans can be taken care of and have access to the materials they need.??

How to Celebrate:??

The effects of the pandemic shaped the viewpoint on National Transportation Week and took the week-long celebration to a new level. Through the shutdowns, it was evident, that without the transportation industry and truck drivers, we would not have had food in our grocery stores, medical equipment wouldn’t have been delivered to hospitals, and other repercussions that could have happened if transportation workers were not “essential”. Sparrow Logistics recognizes and extends thank you to those who risked their health to keep it moving! Start today, by thanking a truck driver.??

How is Sparrow getting involved and making an impact???

We understand that this week can be hard on the carriers. Unplanned road inspections could add unplanned transit delays. When you work with our team, there is a lot of grace because we have the experience to predict and communicate all possible delays to clients during the week.??

How does Sparrow support Transportation Safety???

Our team does its best to stay up to date on the continuously changing rules and regulations, not only in our home state of Nebraska but nationwide. Most recently, our team attended a seminar where a Nebraska State trooper came and spoke about the rules and regulations for Nebraska. It was very informative and appreciated his perspective on road safety.?

What measures/processes does Team Sparrow enforce to combat issues and maintain safety standards???

We have several layers of defense when it comes to working with and onboarding a carrier. Safety is crucial as these are Sparrow’s “brand” ambassadors when loading and unloading freight. We monitor FMCSA safety scores. We are also looking at the age of the MC, how many trucks, and how many inspections have been completed, this is usually a good indicator of quality. We also use a couple of technology platforms that help monitor carrier performance that sends daily updates, allowing us to be up to date on all activity.??

Happy National Transportation Week to all the hardworking individuals in the transportation industry!