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CHICAGO — The National Tank Truck Carriers for the first time has formally endorsed the use of trucks heavier than the current 80,000-pound weight limit.

The tank truck industry faces a unique set of challenges that have led to increased regulations, self-imposed safety precautions and higher costs. Industry executives said they are adjusting by embracing new technology, providing additional driver training and re-examining their operations. 

Less-than-truckload carriers as a group posted solid volume gains and stabilized their shaky revenue environment in the first months of 2010, experts said.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Truck makers and dealers have called for a 10% investment tax credit to smooth out the buying cycle of the cleaner burning but more expensive trucking equipment. 

Universal Truckload Services’ first-quarter profit rose to $2.1 million, or 13 cents per share, from $100,000, or 1 cent, a year ago.

Business got so bad for Jack McDevitt Jr.’s Mack, Volvo and Peterbilt truck dealerships that he shuttered one of his locations last spring and laid off 60 people, including his son. 

The economic recovery and understanding how of government regulations will affect business will be key themes of the National Tank Truck Carriers’ annual conference, scheduled for May 10-12 in Chicago. 

CINCINNATI — A strengthening freight market is leading to higher freight rates, and more loads are going unclaimed, attendees at the National Private Truck Council’s annual management conference said.