Every year, CVSA Safe Driver Week rolls in with increased inspections, enforcement, and pressure on drivers, and 2025 is no different.

From July 13-19, law enforcement across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will be ramping up roadside checks focused on speed, seatbelt use, and Hours-of-Service compliance.

For freight agents and brokers, this week can bring unexpected delays, tighter capacity, and more cautious carriers.

In this article, we’re breaking down what you need to know, how to prep your customers and carriers, and how to keep freight moving with minimal disruption.

What is CVSA Safe Driver Week?

CVSA Safe Driver Week is a yearly initiative by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), designed to promote safer driving behaviors in commercial trucking. Each year, the event focuses on a specific safety issue, and for 2025, the focus is on speeding and overall driver behavior.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Law enforcement officers across North America conduct roadside inspections
• Drivers face increased scrutiny on speed, seatbelt usage, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and driver documentation
• Most inspections will be Level I or II, which include both driver and vehicle safety checks

Why This Week Impacts Freight Agents

This enforcement-heavy week affects nearly every layer of the supply chain, especially for agents managing time-sensitive or just-in-time loads.

During CVSA Safe Driver Week, you may see:

• Drivers turning down hauls that put them at risk of inspection
• Reduced availability of team drivers or those running tight delivery schedules
• Carrier hesitation to enter states with more aggressive enforcement
• Longer transit times and more conservative driving practices across the board

The result? A week where agents need to be extra nimble, communicative, and proactive with customers.

What Inspections Are Carriers Preparing For?

Here are the key things enforcement officers will focus on during this year’s inspections:

• Speeding (primary focus in 2025)
• Seatbelt use and distracted driving
• HOS compliance and ELD log checks
• Driver license and vehicle registration checks
• Inspection of tires, brakes, lights, and overall equipment condition

💡 Pro Tip: Agents should prioritize working with carriers who have clean inspection histories and strong CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores.

How Freight Agents Can Prep Customers & Carriers

Agents play a vital role during this week, especially when it comes to setting expectations and staying ahead of potential disruptions.

1. Communicate Early
   Let customers know that this is a high-enforcement week. Explain how it may affect pickup times, transit schedules, and appointment windows.
   
2. Adjust Timelines
   Add buffer time where possible. If a lane typically takes two days, pad it with a half day to account for conservative driving or possible stops.
   
3. Stick With Trusted Carriers
   Avoid last-minute or unvetted carriers. Work with drivers who understand compliance and are prepared for potential inspections.
   
4. Be Transparent About Risk
   Customers appreciate honesty. Let them know the potential impacts and share how you’re actively working to minimize delays.

What Happens If a Load Is Delayed?

Despite your best planning, delays may happen. Here’s what that can look like:

• Increased detention time
• Missed appointments or rebooking fees
• Frustration from end receivers, especially on high-volume lanes
• Carrier reshuffling for agents trying to salvage the back half of a route

Use this moment to stand out as a solution-oriented agent, with backup plans, tracking tools, and clear communication.

Tips for Staying Ahead During CVSA Week

Here are a few bonus strategies to help agents and teams stay cool under pressure:

• Use real-time tracking platforms to monitor loads actively
• Confirm driver documents and HOS compliance before dispatch
• Review freight volume and pricing trends in the region
• Avoid ultra-tight windows unless you have preloaded trailers or drop options

Coming Up Next: CVSA Brake Safety Week (August 25–31, 2025)

Mark your calendar, CVSA Brake Safety Week is right around the corner and brings its own set of inspections and driver adjustments. The two events often go hand in hand when it comes to compliance planning and communication.

CVSA Safe Driver Week is just one of many enforcement events that can affect your freight flow—but with the right plan, you can manage through it without surprises.

If you’re an agent looking for a partner that helps you prepare and stay flexible when it counts, we’ve got your back.

Reach out to Somerset Logistics to learn how our team supports agents with proactive communication, trusted carrier networks, and real-time visibility that keeps your freight, and your reputation, on track.