Starting a trucking company is an exciting step — but for many, it’s also a short-lived one. Industry data shows that 85–90% of new trucking companies fail within their first 2–3 years. The reasons vary, but most come down to the same core challenges:

• Cash flow mismanagement
• Inability to find consistent, profitable freight
• Underestimating costs
• Lack of compliance knowledge and operational structure
  
  

At NASTC, we’ve worked with thousands of small carriers — and we’ve seen firsthand what separates the companies that make it from those that don’t.

That’s why we created NEST — the New Entrant Survival Training class — a focused, two-day training program designed to help new carriers build a solid, sustainable foundation from the start.

 The Results: NEST Graduates Outperform the Industry

We don’t just believe in the power of NEST — we’ve measured it.

87% of NASTC members who attend the NEST class are still in business two years later.

That’s a remarkable contrast to the national average. And it’s no coincidence.
NEST gives new carriers the education, strategy, and tools they need to navigate those early years with confidence.

 What Makes NEST Different

NEST isn’t a webinar, a sales pitch, or a generic training. It’s a hands-on, two-day classroom experience taught at NASTC headquarters in Nashville, TN — led by industry professionals who understand the unique challenges small carriers face.

Here’s what’s covered:

 DOT & FMCSA Compliance
We break down regulations into practical, real-world steps to help carriers avoid shutdowns, violations, and audit risk.

 Financial and Cash Flow Strategy
We dive into the financial realities of trucking — from managing receivables and factoring to understanding true operating costs and avoiding common financial traps.

 Insurance and Risk Management
Attendees learn how to manage insurance costs while maintaining the coverage required to stay on the road and grow responsibly.

 Fuel Strategy
Fuel is one of your largest expenses. NEST provides insight into how professional fleets manage fuel purchasing — and how to avoid retail traps that eat away at profit.

 Driver Hiring & Retention
From building a compliant hiring process to finding (and keeping) quality drivers, we help carriers develop systems to build a strong team from day one.

 2026 NEST Class Schedule
All classes are held at NASTC Headquarters in Nashville, TN.

• January 16–17
• February 20–21
• March 20–21
• April 17–18
• May 15–16
• June 12–13
• July 17–18
• August 21–22
• September 18–19
• October – NASTC Annual Conference
• November 13–14
• December 11–12
  
  

 Don’t Just Launch a Trucking Company — Build One That Lasts

The majority of new carriers won’t make it to year three — but you don’t have to be one of them.

Whether you’ve just activated your authority or are navigating your first year of operations, NEST (New Entrant Survival Training) is your opportunity to take control of your future, avoid common mistakes, and build a business that lasts.

Secure your spot in an upcoming class and let’s build your success story — together.