The US trucking industry has been plagued by a phenomenon known as 'ghost fleets,' where large numbers of trucks are operating without proper registration or inspection. Suplicium Transport LLC, one of the companies at the center of this issue, reported having only one truck on its books, despite being inspected 801 times in 46 states.
The figure of 801 inspections is staggering, and it highlights the lack of accountability in the industry. The fact that a single truck can be associated with multiple vehicle identification numbers (VINs) across different states raises serious questions about the accuracy of the system. It also underscores the complexity of the issue, as roadside inspectors are dealing with a multitude of trucks that are not properly registered or inspected.
The pressure on long-haul Class 8 trucking has been building steadily over the past year and a half, leading many operators to shift into hotshot and auto transport. This shift has resulted in a significant increase in the number of vehicles on the road, as well as a decrease in the number of trucks that are properly registered or inspected.
The equipment used by these ghost fleets is often simple and easy to move, such as pickup trucks and car-hauler trailers. These types of vehicles can be easily retitled, replated, and run under a new limited liability company in a matter of days, making it difficult for authorities to track their movements.
The network of ghost fleets is recent and has been growing over the past 18 months. Twenty-six of the 32 carriers that are part of this network hold DOT numbers issued recently enough to date their authority to 2023 or later, and 21 trace back to 2024 and 2025. This suggests that the issue is not just a one-time problem, but rather a systemic issue that requires attention and action.
The lack of transparency and oversight in the industry is allowing ghost fleets to thrive. The fact that many of these carriers are new entrants in the industry, with some holding DOT numbers issued as recently as 2025, raises questions about their ability to operate safely and responsibly.
The system is weakest when it comes to tenure, or the lack thereof. Newly authorized carriers enter an 18-month new-entrant window during which FMCSA is supposed to run a safety audit before issuing full authority. However, this process can be slow and often fails to catch carriers that are operating outside of the law.
The issue of ghost fleets has significant implications for the trucking industry as a whole. It highlights the need for greater transparency and oversight, as well as more effective regulations and enforcement mechanisms. By addressing these issues, regulators can help ensure that all carriers are operating safely and responsibly.
As the industry continues to grapple with this complex issue, it is clear that action needs to be taken. The trucking industry must prioritize transparency and accountability, and work towards creating a safer and more responsible system for all carriers.
The lack of transparency and oversight in the trucking industry is allowing ghost fleets to thrive.
