I just got back from the Expedite Expo in Lexington, KY. The annual show has been held in Wilmington, OH since its inception in 2001, but outgrew the venue there and was moved to the Lexington Center for the first time this year. It is the only trade event that focuses solely on the expedited trucking industry.
The expedited sector of the trucking industry is one that gives preferential service to customers at a much higher price. These loads are usually mission critical and require much more specialized attention. These premium services can include team drivers, temperature control, special care, increased security and critical pickup and delivery windows. The large variety in the loads keep it very interesting. 
Many times, expediters are called upon when something goes wrong. A manufacturing plant may need a critical part that will halt production – it is then that the expediters are called. They are the 911 of the freight industry. They also transport many sensitive items for the military. There is no need to say anymore on that - they do not need any attention as they move these items from point A to B. Just ask an expediter about the most interesting thing they transported. If they can talk about, I assure you it’ll be very interesting.
The quality of expedite drivers is quickly noticeable. Their appearance is professional with very few exceptions. There are many husband and wife teams and we all know that men act and dress better when women are around. Many times, expediters have to wait a few days for a load - as is the nature of being the freight industry’s 911. This allows them to get caught up on rest, maintain the truck and get ready for the next freight emergency. This is very important because most expediters stay on the road for months at a time.
The Expedite Expo showcased the latest trucks and specialty sleepers. These custom sleepers are especially important to expediters because of their long periods of time away from home and living in the truck. The expedited carriers were looking for more prospective expediters to join their ranks. Load 1, Fed Ex Custom Critical, Panther and Landstar Express America among others, were there recruiting and displaying their equipment. Expediters held workshops during the show, educating those that want to join the industry and those that wanted to improve within the industry. I know of no other truck show that allows and promotes access to the actual drivers doing the job. Traditional truck shows emphasize equipment and products, but the Expedite Expo focused on people. Niche markets like expediting are well known for treating its drivers better than traditional trucking companies. If you are looking for more respect within the trucking industry, then give expediting a look. Higher mileage rates, lower costs to operate – what’s not to like?