Why Large Motor Carrier Fleets May Change Their IRP Bases Bob Pitcher Vice President, State Laws ATA

A Controversial Issue Basing is governed by IRP §210: –“Base jurisdiction” means, for purposes of fleet registration, the jurisdiction where the registrant has an established place of business, where distance is accrued by the fleet and where operational records are maintained or can be made available…. [not substantially changed in the Rewrite]

Controversy, cont’d. Original drafters debated “established” vs. “principal” Came down on side of carrier flexibility

So Why Move?? Level of Registration Fees? –NOT under IRP Sales or Property Taxes? –NO: large fleets are already in exempt jurisdictions Moving a Large Fleet is Expensive

Why Move?? CUSTOMER SERVICE INCIDENTAL JURISDICTIONAL FEES & REQUIREMENTS

A Little Cost Can Make A Big Difference Trucking is a low-margin business Motor carrier revenue/mile declined from 1980 to 2003 by 38% (adjusted for inflation) Average carrier profit, : 1.9% Per truck, that’s $3400/year or $0.03/mile

Increasing Costs very good years for business, but: Industry will pay $85B more for fuel this year and probably next We’re short 11,000 drivers & counting Trucks started to cost $20,000 more in 2004; it will happen again 2007 & 2010 Pressure from competitors and customers never lets up

Incentives Jurisdictions fight over other industries with tax incentives – but not trucking Successful fleets have learned to be as efficient as possible No shame in going where it’s easiest and most efficient to do business

Customer Service POSITIVES: Can-Do attitude Accessibility of expert assistance Fleets assigned specific agency reps One-stop shops Electronic application/processing/payment Support of management

Customer Service NEGATIVES: Waiting in line Limits on time or transactions Dealing at local levels Delays in paperwork Poorly trained, unhelpful staff

Requirements POSITIVES: Electronic titles Self-issuance of (all) credentials Reciprocity for equipment inspections Permanent plates Single plate required on tractor Carrier-specific plates

Requirements NEGATIVES: Expensive title & transaction fees VIN inspection requirements Environmental requirements Dolly registration Lien fees and paperwork

Requirements NEGATIVES, cont’d: Annual stickers for plates Special licenses required of carrier personnel Proliferating jurisdiction fees

Why Move? No advantages in registration fees or major taxes No advantage in going to a place that doesn’t want you Benefits come in increased customer service & effiencies

Efficiency Can Make A Big Difference To Everybody: TRUCKING ACCOUNTS FOR 5% OF GDP