Freight Pulse & Law Update: Diesel Tops $6, REVOKE Act Targets Chameleon Carriers, and CBP Demands Import Visibility

Diesel has crossed $6 per gallon, trucking capacity remains tight, and regulators are demanding cleaner carrier and import data. For shippers, fuel surcharges, registration status, customs records, and hazmat documentation now belong in the same operating conversation.

Why is $6.05 diesel changing freight decisions?

The AAA/NPR national diesel average reached $6.05 per gallon on September 11, up from $5.85 last week. Fuel surcharges are no longer a billing afterthought; they influence routing, mode selection, tender acceptance, and inventory positioning.

• Audit carrier surcharge formulas against current fuel indexes.

• Compare regional fuel exposure before awarding lanes.

• Use shipment-level visibility to identify avoidable miles and dwell.

What does the REVOKE Act require?

The REVOKE Act, H.R. 10237, introduced September 4 by Reps. Dave Taylor and Shomari Figures, targets “chameleon carriers” that reopen under new USDOT numbers to evade safety oversight. The bill would require an active USDOT number and permit immediate deactivation of non-compliant registrations.

• ATA backs the measure.

• Verify every carrier’s active registration before tendering freight.

• Document DOT/CVSA inspection history; enforcement is tightening after CVSA Brake Safety Week on August 23–29.

What should importers and hazmat shippers do now?

The CBP September 2 ANPRM would expand global business identifiers, foreign export documentation, and shipment-level data requirements; comments are due December 1. Meanwhile, PHMSA HM-268, effective September 3, permits electronic emergency-response information, electronic registration, and reduced limited-quantity markings.

How can operators prepare before Q4?

Third party logistics providers, supply chain management companies, and brands need connected inventory management for ecommerce, fulfillment, and transportation data. FlowOps by Lanta is operator-built logistics software with real-time visibility, a $99/mo flat rate, unlimited SKUs, patent-pending Agentic AI, and 20+ integrated modules. Explore the warehouse management system or compare capabilities.

Lanta Logistics supports 3PL fulfillment services and Mid-Atlantic fulfillment from its Glen Burnie warehouse: a food-grade warehouse and Hazmat certified 3PL serving 3PL Maryland operations.

Audit fuel exposure, verify carrier registration, and lock in visibility before Q4 with Lanta Logistics.