Beware of the Chameleon Carrier

There has been a lot of press recently about removing so-called “chameleon carriers” from the roads, and West Bend Transit (WBT) is 100% in agreement.

What is a chameleon carrier? It’s a trucking company that accumulates violations, hires unqualified drivers, and continues operating until regulators catch them — then reopens under a new name and Motor Carrier (MC) number. Another practice is obtaining multiple MC numbers and shifting operations between them when one is flagged for audit or a driver is placed out of service at a scale house. In every case, these actions put everyone on the road at risk and unfairly tarnish the reputation of the many reputable carriers that do things the right way.

WBT operates with clear policies and procedures, including background checks, initial training, and regular retraining. Tougher regulations in 2026 led to the revocation of over 28,000 commercial driver’s licenses — enforcement we support because we share the same highways and all want to return home safely each day.

How can you help ensure safer roads and better carriers?

• Ask potential carriers to provide their CSA and SAFER scores so you can review their safety performance.

• Ask when the most recent company-wide safety training occurred and what the corrective actions are when an employee fails training.

• Use a few targeted questions during carrier selection to confirm they handle your product responsibly and prioritize roadway safety.

• If they stumble with responses, it is time to find someone new!

WBT has served customers for 115 continuous years — a testament to the people who call WBT home and who take safety seriously every day. If you’d like to discuss your supply chain or learn more, please contact Chris Greenberg, President of WBT, at 262-689-9202.