TCA's History
The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) is the only national
trade association whose sole focus is the truckload segment
of the motor carrier industry. The association represents
dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, intermodal container and end-dump
carriers operating in the 48 contiguous states as well as
Alaska, Mexico, and Canada.
TCA has a long and rich history that includes several name
changes throughout the years. The organization has its origins
in two separate groups: the Contract Carrier Conference (founded
1938) and the Common Carrier Conference - Irregular Route
(founded 1941). In 1983, these groups merged to become the
Interstate Carriers Conference, which changed its name to
Interstate Truckload Carriers Conference in June of 1988.
In March of 1997, the Board of Directors voted to change the
name to its present form: The Truckload Carriers Association.
To see a list of TCA's past chairs, click
here.
Over the years, TCA has grown in terms of the activities
for which it is responsible on behalf of its members. In 1996,
TCA assumed responsibility for the management of the Professional
Truck Driver Institute, Inc. (PTDI). PTDI was established
in 1986 by motor carriers, public and private schools, insurers,
and industry suppliers to advance truck driver training, proficiency,
safety, and professionalism to the highest standards possible.
In 1999, TCA established Truckload
Academy, to provide comprehensive training for all levels
of truckload carrier personnel, from chief executive to driver.
In 2001, TCA took over the administration of the North
American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI).
NATMI has, since 1944, been providing training and certification
of fleet safety, maintenance and driver trainer personnel.
TCA created its prestigious Ambassador's
Club in 1996 as
a way to honor companies that have maintained membership
with the organization for 25 years or longer. Each year at
the Annual Convention,
companies are honored if they are being inducted into the
Ambassador's Club for the first time, or if they have reached
the next milestone of membership longevity.
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