Carhaul Teamsters Approve Major Agreement for Improved Wage and Working Conditions
On October 27, 2025, the Carhaul Teamsters achieved a significant milestone by ratifying the National Master Automobile Transporters Agreement (NMATA) for five years, marking a crucial step toward improving economic conditions for members across the nation. This comprehensive contract not only promised major economic benefits but also focused on enhancing working conditions and job security for drivers, mechanics, and yard workers.
According to Teamsters General Secretary-Treasurer Fred Zuckerman, the ratified agreement effectively addresses the core concerns of union members: higher wages and better working environments. He emphasized, "This agreement addresses our members' top priorities and delivers real improvements for drivers, mechanics, and yard workers nationwide." The contract includes a notable 16 percent wage increase throughout its duration, alongside uncapped cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) in the latter years, allowing workers to retain their earnings' purchasing power against inflation.
The newly implemented agreement also establishes a sunset clause on the 'new business' rule, which had previously permitted companies to apply reduced rates indefinitely. This change aims to protect existing wage standards and promote fair compensation across the industry. Furthermore, provisions within the agreement enhance protections against pay discrepancies, improve terminal assignments, and tighten accountability on accidents. These changes further strengthen the rights of members in their roles, reinforcing their job security and equity in the workplace.
One of the key players in this negotiation, Avral Thompson, Director of the Teamsters Carhaul Division, highlighted the transformative nature of the agreement: "This agreement delivers significant improvements for Carhaul Teamsters and positions us to grow union density in this critical industry." Through this new contract, the Teamsters aim to raise industry standards, delivering tangible benefits such as higher wages and better working conditions for thousands of its members.
The NMATA is a collective agreement that encompasses thousands of Teamsters across the United States. Its formulation involved active engagement from rank-and-file members, ensuring that a myriad of voices from various employers and local unions were represented. Keith Pruitt, a driver at Cassens Transport and a member of Teamsters Local 89, shared his enthusiasm about the new contract, stating, "Our new contract brings lasting improvements to our daily work lives. We’re proud of what we accomplished together and look forward to seeing the results of our hard work at the bargaining table."
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, is an influential labor union representing approximately 1.3 million individuals in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. It serves various sectors and has a rich history of advocating for workers' rights and fair labor practices. For more information on Teamsters and their initiatives, visit their official website at Teamster.org, or follow them on social media via X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters. This recent achievement not only underscores the union's commitment to its members but also reflects the collective strength of workers demanding fair treatment and equitable standards in the workplace.