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With expectations of record-shattering orders over the Internet this Christmas, package carriers may want to hire Santa and Mrs. Claus to drive trucks to satisfy the surging demand.

Trailer shipments in 1999 will reach about 302,000, topping the record set in 1998 by almost 8%, according to a survey, but one analyst foresees weakening demand in 2000.

In the news this morning: Canadian National, BNSF rail merger faces lengthy regulatory approval, while truckers are unfazed by the deal; and Kansas trucker wins Goodyear heroism award.

Trucking execs who think there’s little they can do to prevent cargo theft should talk to Gary Fitzsimmons, an ex-cop who has helped cut Swift Transportation's losses by 50% while business increased.

This afternoon's headlines: Trimac to purchase DSI; Calif. shipping hub connects to local services; and Nearly a record year expected for lift trucks in 1999.

ATA Chairman Walter B. McCormick, Jr. has challenged the railroad industry to engage in a “new dialogue” aimed at “assuring fast, frequent, safe freight delivery” and called for a summit early next year.

A bill authorizing financial penalties for truckers who ignore New Jersey’s route ban for interstate trucks passed the state Assembly Dec. 13.

The Arizona Department of Transportation says bridge repair work on Interstate 15 has been completed, ending a two-month-long truck restriction.

This afternoon's headlines: Detroit Diesel names new executive vice president; Reefer carrier American Dispatch still searching for a new home; and Fastrans Logistics firm riding high on the Internet wave.