Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized 47 motor carriers and shippers with the 2024 SmartWay Excellence Award for cutting fuel consumption and lowering emissions across the freight supply chain. These honorees represent the upper tier of sustainable transportation management, proving that heavy-duty efficiency and bottom-line profitability go hand in hand on long-haul routes.

Marking two decades of the SmartWay program, federal regulators pointed to these specific fleets as benchmarks for the entire trucking sector. The recognized operations cut greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality while keeping freight moving across the country. The roster spans major truckload carriers, dedicated fleets, and massive retail shippers that rely heavily on daily over-the-road capacity.

This year's recipient list features high-profile transportation companies and national brands such as Arrow Transportation, Cargo Transporters, Covenant Transport, Crete Carrier Corporation, CRST The Transportation Solution, Hirschbach Motor Lines, Knight Transportation, May Trucking Company, Mesilla Valley Transportation, Nussbaum Transportation Services, Prime, Schneider, Swift Transportation, Werner Enterprises, and Western Express. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated that these partners have spent decades advancing freight efficiency, delivering goods with less fuel, and strengthening the commercial transport sector while meeting environmental benchmarks.

What This Means for Drivers

For an OTR truck driver or company driver eyeing greener fleets, SmartWay-certified carriers often operate modern, well-maintained equipment that reduces downtime and cuts fuel stops. Fleets prioritizing aerodynamics, idle-reduction technology, and advanced power units usually provide better spec'd sleeper cabs, which directly impacts daily comfort and earning potential. Owner-operators watching fuel surcharges and diesel prices closely can also look to these efficiency standards as a roadmap for spec'ing profitable equipment.

Industry Reaction

As sustainability metrics become standard operating procedure for major shippers, partnering with recognized carriers gives top-tier fleets a distinct competitive advantage in securing dedicated freight contracts. Shippers are increasingly auditing their supply chains for carbon output, meaning carriers that invest in fuel-saving tech are better positioned to capture stable, high-paying loads. This dynamic continues to drive investment in hybrid powertrains, advanced aerodynamics, and driver training programs focused on progressive shifting and speed management.

Key Points

• The EPA recognized 47 carriers and shippers with the 2024 SmartWay Excellence Award.
• Awardees include major truckload carriers like Knight, Prime, Schneider, Swift, and Werner.
• The SmartWay program is celebrating its 20th anniversary of tracking freight efficiency and emissions reductions.
• Honored fleets demonstrate leadership in minimizing fuel consumption and improving air quality.

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