Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/139371
24 www.bigrigowner.com J u ly 2 0 1 3 feature > Expedite Expo – A Different Sort Of Truck Show Expedited trucking is a whole different segment of the trucking industry, and the Expedite Expo is a whole different sort of truck show. The Expo, which will be held July 26 and 27 at the Roberts Convention Centre in Wilmington, Ohio, is geared toward the growing segment of the trucking industry that focuses on just-in-time freight. The expedited trucking industry is booming right now, fueled in part by an evolving business model for shippers and receivers. Rather than stockpile inventory, many manufacturers who found themselves with unused freight taking up warehouse space when the economy slipped into recession several years ago have changed their strategy so that they ship smaller loads more frequently. That means more business and more miles for expedited truckers who specialize in getting crucial freight to its destination — just in time. One of the first industries to embrace just-in-time delivery was the automotive industry, including the major American auto manufacturers as well as the vendors that serve those manufacturers. A key difference in the expedited industry is that there is very little down time for A big crowd visited last year's Expedite Expo. feature 0713.indd 1 drivers once they pick up a load. Shippers and receivers are counting on the freight to move straight through and be delivered as soon as possible. Expedite Expo, the largest expedited trucking show in North America, will bring industry executives, drivers and enthusiasts from all over the country to the Roberts Centre. While they're at the show, they'll have the opportunity to rub elbows, check out the latest products and services and learn more about the expedited trucking business through a variety of seminars and workshops. The Expo also will feature a variety of entertainment. One of the Expo's most popular features has been the Antique Truck Show, and this year the Expo will add a new twist with the All-American Working Truck Show. The Expo, in its 13th year, will feature more than 120 exhibits this year. Admission and parking are free at the Expo. More on Expedited Trucking The majority of expedited truckers are owner-operators who own and drive their own trucks. Husband-and-wife teams are very common in the industry, and many are very successful. Often, the owner-operators will partner with an expedited freight carrier. The carrier will then offer loads from its customers to the owner-operators. Typically, the owner-operators are paid based on mileage, or as a percentage of the rate paid by the customer. Owner-operators within the expedited trucking industry use a variety of equip- 6/6/13 10:03 AM