As we've written before the nation is rapidly heading towards a crisis in lacking infrastructure funding and specifically to the nationwide trucking industry some huge shortfalls in highway spending. Like many other metrics however not all states are equal with the potential for issues looming much larger in some states than others.
What the first graphic below demonstrates are the percentage spending changes in highway funding per state from 2008 to 2013. While there are a handful of net spending increases most notably in the Northeast the vast majority of the country shows results in the negative displayed as orange (tan) or red below. All of this against a backdrop of more vehicles both commercial and private plus more freight than ever being moved by truck putting more and more pressure on a network that was already under pressure,
it doesn't make for an encouraging read but below are the ten states with the lowest federal highway spending per capita along with their 2008 ranking for the same formula. In each case and for many of the states further down the list the shortfall in funds will either be made up in state road and vehicle taxes, by private investment and tolls or in many cases projects will simply be delayed or a band-aid approach taken to repairing the most obvious needs as and when they occur.
- Massachusetts: With 2013 spending per capita at $92 the commonwealth easily tops the list after ranking third in 2008. The 13th most populated state is a vital part of the economy of the region.
- Florida: 2013 spending per capita at $96 sees the state remaining in second place as it was in 2008. A major trucking center and also the 4th highest population of any state.
- Maryland: 2013 spending per capita was $99 compared with $113 in 2008 when it ranked fifth, although a small state is has a lot of commercial traffic and is an important traffic corridor between major cities.
- California: 2013 spending per capita at $99 versus $111 five years earlier keeping California in 4th. The state boasts the highest population in the country in addition to the 2nd highest total miles of paved roads behind only Texas.
- Washington: 2013 spending per capita at $101 was a huge fall from $124 in 2008 which in turn saw the state rise from eleventh place up to fifth.
- New York: 2013 spending per capita at $102 for the 3rd most populous state which includes our largest city. However this was an improvement from $92 and a previous rank of first.
- Michigan: 2013 spending per capita at $106 was another cut from $114 in 2008. The heart of our automotive industry not to mention a population of almost 10 million which is the 9th highest in the land.
- Colorado: 2013 spending per capita at $109 down from $119 five years earlier saw the booming state rise from ninth to eighth on the list.
- Utah: 2013 spending per capita at $109 showed a major fall from $122 in 2008 helping the state move up one place to ninth in our list of underfunded states.
- Illinois: 2013 spending per capita at $109 for the Land of Lincoln. The Chicago area is often seen as the true hub of national trucking but the state still saw a $9 drop from 2008 when it ranked seventh.
What you'll certainly notice among the ten states listed that many based purely on population, manufacturing and consumption are vital contributors to the economy of the nation with a greater than average reliance on urgent freight and interstate trucking. Just last week in California a proposed 'quality of life' tax was being discussed to help tackle road funding shortages rather than call it what it is - a road tax that is not currently providing appropriate levels of funding.
Incidentally some states are receiving higher funding in relative terms (or perhaps we should call it appropriate funding). The top five in 2013 were; Alaska $739 per capita, Wyoming $455, Montana $432 North Dakota $370 and Vermont $365. What is apparent is that there is a large discrepancy in federal funding for state highway improvements when some states are receiving two, three or more than four times the funding per capita as others. Perhaps finding a formula to even that out to some extent would be a good starting point?
The entire table of data can be viewed at jsonline.com who I would like to thank for the source material for today's piece.
SOURCES: Population figures for 2003 and 2008 from U.S. Census Bureau's "intercensal estimates of the resident population" for April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2010.
Population figures for 2013 from U.S. Census Bureau's "annual estimates of the resident population" for April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2014.
Highway spending figures from the Federal Highway Administration's annual highway statistics, Table FE-221, "Comparison of Federal Highway Trust Fund Account Receipts Attributable to the States and Federal-Aid Apportionments and Allocations from the Highway Account.
Related Blog Posts

Essential Tips for Successful Hot Shot Trucking
Running a successful hot shot trucking business requires a combination of effective strategies, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you're a new entrant or an experienced hot shot trucker, adopting essential tips can help you navigate the industry and increase your chances of success. In this blog post, we will provide practical advice and strategies for running a thriving hot shot trucking business, covering...

The Advantages of Hot Shot Trucking for Small Businesses
In the world of logistics, small businesses often face unique challenges when it comes to shipping their products efficiently and cost-effectively. This is where hot shot trucking can be a game-changer. Hot shot trucking offers a range of advantages that can significantly benefit small businesses, enabling them to compete in the marketplace and meet customer demands. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of hot shot trucking for...

747 Freighter Air Charter to Hawaii
When it comes to providing air cargo capabilities, there is no aircraft in the world that compares with the Boeing 747 series of freighters. All three 747-400F, 747-400ERF and 747-8F freighter models in service today, are unmatched in carrying capacity, cargo handling, global reach, speed and versatility. An aviation icon born in 1968, the 747 is instantly recognizable by its large upper deck “hump”, four engines and six-story high vertical...

How Highway Closure Impacts Hot Shot Trucking California
Natural disasters can disrupt any industry, but their impact is particularly serious for logistics companies. The recent mudslides in California are a powerful case in point. By blocking Highway 101, one of the Golden State’s most important roadways, this environmental crisis has diverted trucks from their usual routes. This has significantly increased the cost and difficulty of completing hot shot freight deliveries, hampering the economy of...

Louisiana's Transportation Plan To Benefit Hot Shot Trucking Industry
After years of discussion and debate from countless stakeholders, Louisiana is starting a new infrastructure project. Governor John Bel Edwards unveiled a $600 million plan to improve the state’s highways. Focusing on widening Interstate 10, this plan will be a boon to Hot Shot Trucking and other transportation companies that traverse the state. Governor Edwards announced the plan on Friday, May 13th, claiming that it was “of the utmost...

Regulatory and Legislative Update - September 2024
Contents Regulation and Enforcement House panel approves bill to address FMCSA’s commercial enforcement House panel advances bill granting carrier access to driver safety history Regulation and Enforcement FMCSA once again seeks input on plan to revamp online registration FMCSA seeks input by September 26 on its periodic review of guidance documents Truck Leasing Task Force to meet in October and November FMCSA removes two devices from list of...

Truckload Demand Remains Higher than this Time Last Year
Based on the latest reports on durable goods manufacturers’ shipments, orders and inventories, freight volume has yet to decline. The most recent numbers from the US Census Bureau show that orders for manufactured durable goods increased in May by 0.7% to $267.2 billion. This follows increases for seven of the past eight months. This May, shipments of manufactured durable goods increased by $3.6 billion or 1.3%, followed by a 0.3 % rise in...

House Bill 7095 / Section 4202
House panel to vote on bill with measures on CSA, SFD, HOS The Democratic leadership of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee on June 4 introduced legislation (H.R. 7095) to reauthorize transportation programs following the expiration of the FAST Act on September 30. Title IV of the bill addresses motor carrier safety and includes several significant provisions related to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)...

Regulatory and Legislative Update - October 2024
Contents Legislation Speed limiters, preemption, and Norton bill await possible lame duck action DOT Funding Bill Additional States Considering California Type CARB Restrictions Regulation and Enforcement Significant FMCSA regulation is limited before the next administration FMCSA Registration Modernization Stakeholder Day III Advocacy and Comment Legislation Speed limiters, preemption, and Norton bill await possible lame duck action Although...

Regulatory and Legislative Update - May 2024
Regulatory and legislative news for May 2024 includes the FMCSA renewing consideration of knowledge/proficiency exams for carriers and brokers, the FMCSA inviting comments on its plan for a new online registration platform and Hawaii seeking exemption on student transportation options. The FMCSA is also set to revise a younger driver pilot program. Contents Regulation and Enforcement FMCSA formally drops certain conditions for younger driver...

Regulatory and Legislative Update - August 2024
Contents Regulation and Enforcement FMCSA supports legislation to assess penalties for unlawful brokerage FMCSA Holds Final Listening Session on SFD Initiative FMCSA pushes back timing of various rulemaking proceedings DOT’s artificial intelligence head named FMCSA deputy administrator Company loses exemption bid for additional driving time FMCSA denies HOS exemption for drivers hauling cement FMCSA removes four devices from list of registered...

Regulatory and Legislative Update - November 2024
Contents Regulation and Enforcement Trump presidency to bring big labor, environmental policy changes FMCSA regulations might not change much under Trump President Trump nominates former Rep. Sean Duffy as DOT secretary FMCSA acts on broker transparency, SMS changes in election’s aftermath FMCSA plans to postpone elements of broker/forwarder financial responsibility rule States begin mandatory CDL downgrades for clearinghouse violations Truck...
WHAT IS HOT SHOT TRUCKING? AKA HOTSHOT TRUCKING
Modern business is all about strict timelines. Whether your field is manufacturing, extraction, retail, or research and development, your operations are bound to rely on activities that operate in tandem. The most minor of supply shortages can throw these activities off, potentially costing you thousands of dollars just for a few hours' delay. Success thus hinges on your ability to right the ship as quickly as possible after a supply shortage arises.
Industries We Serve
Modern day hot shot trucking provides the speed and exclusivity you need to meet the most demanding and time-sensitive shipping requirements. We use every resource, avenue, and channel available to ship your freight by ground or air. Designed specifically to address supply and distribution problems that arise without warning, hotshot trucking tactics involve coordinating a network of carriers in a variety of locations. By calling on the vehicles closest to your supply or distribution points, hotshot brokers can fill any sudden gaps in your supply network almost as soon as they happen. This minimizes the disruption to your business and allows you to quickly return to ordinary operations, weathering the storm without skipping a beat.
Automotive
The automotive supply chain already has significant challenges. Don’t let malfunctioning equipment stop the production line. Step on the gas with HotShotTrucking.com’s suite of services that will get you back in the fast lane. With HotShotTrucking.com, companies are devising shipping strategies to swiftly deliver critical parts and equipment — whether it's ground expedite service with sprinter vans, box trucks and 53-foot tractor trailers or air freight and air cargo.
Aviation & Aerospace
Every moment a commercial airliner sits on the ground, it costs an airline money. Expedited freight services by HotShotTrucking.com can get you back in the air with prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America. We are equipped with the expertise to navigate the complexities of shipping jet engines and other types of loads, and our network of hot shot drivers has extensive experience transporting aviation assets.
Construction
One shipping delay can snowball and cause delays throughout your entire project. You need an experienced 3PL provider who understands the construction industry and has the logistical reach to deliver your freight on time, anywhere. That 3PL partner is HotShotTrucking.com. Whether in the air or on the ground via truck and trailer, we can connect companies to expedited freight services for the prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America.
Mining & Metals
From cranes to chemicals to excavators to conveyor belts, HotShotTrucking.com has the experience and industry know-how required for shipping sensitive, oversized, and hazardous equipment. Third-party hot shot trucking and logistics providers such as HotShotTrucking.com specialize in devising and implementing innovative shipping solutions, ensuring mines can swiftly return to operation. We’ll pick up your shipment, deliver it to the airport and receive it at the other end – providing hand-carried service as necessary or required.
Manufacturing
Every moment a manufacturing facility or factory sits idle costs a company money because of the high costs involved. With many manufacturers building to only just-in-time production rates, any disruption threatens parts and vehicle inventories. This is where the speed and expertise of freight services from HotShotTrucking.com can make a difference throughout the entire manufacturing supply chain. We do all the logistical legwork to find the optimal solution for your job, whether it's an exclusive air charter or expedited ground shipping.
Telecommunications
From servers to cell towers, information, voice, and data must flow to keep businesses, production, and the public online and connected. When equipment goes dark, depend on HotShotTrucking.com to get your systems flashing green again. This is where the speed and experience of trucking and freight services from HotShotTrucking.com can help. Our hot shot truck network excels at the prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America.
Oil & Gas
The oil and gas industry faces challenging conditions in offshore and onshore oil rigs, often in remote locations with limited infrastructure. Don’t let oil pumps or pipelines sit idle waiting for equipment. By having the right plans, parts, people, and logistics partner like HotShotTrucking.com, you can effectively mitigate plant or pump downtime, unscheduled disruptions, and equipment failures.
Cost of Urgent Shipping
Which of our specialized shipping services best fits your needs?
Blog and Resource Center
How AirFreight.com Solved a PGA Tour Shipping Emergency
Learn how AirFreight.com located a lost shipment and helped save the PGA Golf Tour.
How AirFreight.com Saved The Farm By Solving A Major Shipping Delay
Learn how we saved a Montana-based artisanal farm thousands of dollars by expediting a shipment of perishable goods.
Expedited Shipping Vendor Comparison
We’ve done the research for you. This vendor comparison sheet breaks down how AirFreight.com stacks up against the competition.

talk to an expeditor now
Get a Quote in Minutes for Your Time-Critical Freight Needs
GET A QUOTE