CRST Shutting Down OTR? What That Really Means for Truckers

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Introduction – The End of the Road for CRST OTR?

Word on the street is CRST — one of the biggest names in the game — is shutting down over-the-road (OTR) operations.
Now, before we all start flipping tables at the Petro diner, let’s break it down.

Because this ain’t just about one company — it’s a snapshot of a bigger shift in the trucking industry. And if you’ve been paying attention, it’s not surprising… but it is serious.

Key Points – What We Know So Far

CRST shutting down OTR division – According to inside sources, CRST is pulling the plug on its traditional long-haul operation. That means fewer cross-country loads, fewer two-man teams, and big changes for company drivers who rely on coast-to-coast hauls.

Drivers are being notified – Reports say company drivers and contractors are being told their positions are ending or being shifted to local, dedicated, or regional routes — if they qualify. For many, it’s a “thanks and good luck” conversation.

This isn’t a total shutdown – CRST isn’t disappearing. The company still has dedicated, final-mile, and logistics operations. But their bread-and-butter OTR service is getting phased out — and fast.

Multiple Perspectives – Why This Is Happening

Freight market is still weak – Rates are low. Capacity is high. Spot loads are shaky. Companies that bet heavy on OTR lanes are bleeding money. For some, it’s better to bail out early than sink deeper.

Driver turnover has always been an issue – CRST, like many mega carriers, has long struggled with driver retention. Long-haul team driving with low pay and high stress doesn’t hit like it used to — especially in this new generation of drivers.

OTR is losing its appeal – More freight is shifting to dedicated lanes, final-mile, and regional routes. Companies are realizing they can save money and headaches by ditching the old-school, go-anywhere OTR model.

Tech and automation are quietly creeping in – With the rise of autonomous testing (yep, looking at you, Torc, Daimler, and Kodiak), big carriers are also bracing for a future where trucks don’t need teams. The CRST model doesn’t age well in that future.

Driver Reaction

– Real Talk from the Road

Veteran drivers: “Saw it coming.” – A lot of old-school drivers aren’t shocked. They’ve seen the writing on the wall. The freight ain’t paying, the miles are getting cut, and the dispatch games are real.

Newer drivers: “Now what?” – For rookies or students who just got into CRST through their training program, this is a gut punch. Many feel blindsided — promised miles and careers, now stuck looking for another company before their lease is up.

Owner-ops and lease drivers: “This could get ugly.” – Drivers on lease-purchase programs or owner-ops who relied on CRST’s freight might be left scrambling for loads — or with a truck note and no support.

Industry Response – Is This Just the Beginning?

Other companies are watching – CRST isn’t the only fleet struggling. If you think other mega carriers ain’t taking notes, think again. This could be the first of several shutdowns, sell-offs, or mergers to come.

Dedicated freight might be the new king – With big retailers locking in contracts, the real money seems to be in repeatable, local lanes, not cross-country hustle. Expect more carriers to pivot in that direction.

Small carriers might benefit – With fewer big players hauling long loads, independent carriers and agile small fleets might pick up the slack — especially if they can run lean and smart.

Bottom Line – Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

CRST shutting down OTR is a wake-up call. If you’re a driver out here thinking any company will keep you safe forever — think again.

The trucking world is changing fast:

Freight’s shifting

Tech is rising

Companies are cutting costs

Loyalty ain’t guaranteed

Now is the time to protect yourself.

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