The trucking industry is facing two massive changes at once: an FMCSA emergency CDL rule that could push 200,000 drivers out of the market, and a new 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks that could add tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of new equipment. For small carriers and owner-operators, these back-to-back policy shifts will impact hiring, equipment decisions, and profitability.

This week on This Week in Trucking: Hot Right Now, Amy breaks down what these changes mean for your business and how to prepare.

The FMCSA’s Emergency CDL Rule

On September 27th, the FMCSA issued an emergency rule tightening the requirements for non-domiciled CDLs. Moving forward, only drivers with specific, approved employment-based visas (H-2A, H-2B, E-2) are eligible.

That means drivers who obtained a CDL with just a standard Employment Authorization Document (EAD)—such as asylum seekers or DACA recipients—can no longer get or renew a license.

The impact is huge: about 200,000 drivers currently hold these non-domiciled CDLs. While they can continue driving until their licenses expire, they will eventually exit the industry over the next two years.

What This Means for Small Carriers

• Shrinking Driver Pool: States like California and Texas, where many of these drivers are based, will be hit hardest.
• Rate Opportunity: With fewer drivers available, compliant carriers may be able to negotiate higher freight rates.
• Hiring Risks: If you are hiring, paperwork must be flawless. Carriers must verify not just the CDL, but the driver’s visa status to stay compliant.

The 25% Heavy Truck Tariff

On October 1st, a new 25% tariff goes into effect on imported heavy-duty trucks. Combined with the existing Federal Excise Tax, this tariff could add tens of thousands of dollars to the price of a new tractor.

For small carriers, that means buying a new truck just got a lot more expensive.

The Ripple Effect

The tariffs don’t stop at trucks—furniture and pharmaceuticals are also impacted, potentially slowing demand in those freight sectors.

What Carriers Should Do

• Maintain Your Rig: Preventive maintenance is now more important than ever. Extending the lifespan of your current truck will save you from inflated purchase costs.
• Protect Your Profit: Rising equipment costs make cash flow management critical. This is where factoring comes in—getting paid faster for loads means you won’t have to delay repairs or maintenance while waiting for broker checks.

At Bobtail, we offer hassle-free factoring with no long-term contracts or hidden fees. That means same or next-day payments on delivered loads, so you can keep your trucks road-ready without stressing about 30–60 day broker terms.

Why Staying Informed Matters

These kinds of changes—driver supply shocks and tariff hikes—can reshape the industry overnight. Small carriers who pay attention and adapt quickly are the ones who not only survive, but thrive.

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to the This Week in Trucking newsletter. Every week we break down the hottest freight markets by equipment type, plus interviews with carriers who share their real cost per mile and PROFITS.

Episode FAQs

How many drivers will be affected by the FMCSA’s new CDL rule?

Roughly 200,000 drivers who currently hold non-domiciled CDLs issued with Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will be impacted. Over the next two years, most will leave the market as their licenses expire.

Which visas still qualify for a non-domiciled CDL?

Only H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visas are accepted under the new FMCSA rule.

How will the CDL rule affect freight rates?

A smaller driver pool usually means tighter capacity. Carriers who remain compliant may see better load opportunities and stronger negotiating power with shippers and brokers.

What is the new truck tariff, and when does it start?

A 25% tariff on imported heavy-duty trucks begins October 1st, 2025. This is in addition to the Federal Excise Tax, significantly raising the price of new tractors.

How much could the tariff increase truck prices?

Industry estimates suggest tens of thousands of dollars could be added to the cost of a new truck due to the combined effect of tariffs and taxes.

How can small carriers protect themselves from these rising costs?

• Focus on preventive maintenance to extend equipment lifespan.
• Strengthen cash flow with factoring to cover maintenance and operating expenses.
• Use tightening driver supply to negotiate stronger freight rates.

Will these changes affect freight demand?

Yes. In addition to trucks, tariffs on furniture and pharmaceuticals could cool demand in those sectors, creating ripple effects across the supply chain.

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