Safety is not a priority. It's a value.
At CargoNet, safety isn't something we toggle on when it's convenient. It's embedded in every hire, every inspection, every mile driven across North America.
Incident-free trips
FMCSA BASIC score
ELD compliant fleet
Max PM interval
A culture built around zero incidents
We believe every accident is preventable. That belief shapes how we hire, how we train, how we maintain our equipment, and how we hold ourselves accountable. Our safety record isn't the result of luck — it's the result of deliberate, disciplined systems applied consistently across our entire operation.
Our safety department operates independently, with direct reporting to executive leadership. That structure ensures safety decisions are never subordinated to operational pressure or short-term cost considerations.
Six pillars of safety
Rigorous driver selection
Every CargoNet driver undergoes a comprehensive screening process including MVR review, background checks, road tests, and a thorough evaluation of driving history. We hire experienced professionals and invest in their continued development.
- MVR and background screening
- Minimum 2-year verifiable CDL experience
- Pre-employment drug and alcohol testing
- Structured road test evaluation
Ongoing training programs
Safety training doesn't end at orientation. Our drivers participate in regular refresher courses, defensive driving programs, and scenario-based training designed to address real-world hazards they encounter on the road.
- Smith System defensive driving
- Hazmat and cargo securement certification
- Annual refresher training
- Incident review and lessons learned
Preventive maintenance
Our modern fleet is maintained on a strict preventive maintenance schedule. Every tractor and trailer is inspected, serviced, and certified before it leaves the yard — and our drivers perform thorough pre- and post-trip inspections on every run.
- Scheduled PM intervals
- Pre- and post-trip driver inspections
- Electronic DVIR compliance
- In-house certified technicians
Safety technology
We equip our fleet with industry-leading safety technology to monitor performance, prevent incidents, and protect our drivers and the public. Real-time data allows our safety team to coach proactively rather than react after the fact.
- Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras
- Electronic logging devices (ELD)
- Lane departure and collision mitigation
- Speed and behavior monitoring
DOT & regulatory compliance
Full compliance with FMCSA regulations is the floor, not the ceiling. Our compliance team monitors HOS, CSA scores, and regulatory changes proactively — ensuring our operations always exceed minimum standards.
- FMCSA compliance monitoring
- CSA score management
- HOS and ELD compliance
- Drug and alcohol consortium enrollment
Accountability & reporting
We track, analyze, and report on safety performance at every level of the organization. Transparent reporting creates accountability and drives continuous improvement across our entire network.
- Monthly safety scorecards
- Near-miss reporting program
- Root cause analysis on all incidents
- Driver recognition and incentive programs
Industry-recognized safety performance
ATA Safety Management Council Award
Recognized for outstanding safety management practices and incident reduction across our fleet.
NATMI Certified Director of Safety
Our safety director holds NATMI certification, reflecting our commitment to professional safety leadership.
SmartWay Transport Partner
EPA SmartWay certification recognizing fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility in our operations.
Partner with a carrier you can trust.
Our safety record is one of the strongest in the industry. Let us show you what that means for your freight.