Carhaul Teamsters Secure Major Gains in Five-Year NMATA Agreement

The Facts -

A Landmark Contract for Carhaul Teamsters: Wages Rise and Job Protections Strengthened

The Carhaul Teamsters have reached a significant milestone with the ratification of a new five-year National Master Automobile Transporters Agreement (NMATA). This contract introduces substantial economic benefits, improved workplace standards, and enhanced job security for members nationwide.

Fred Zuckerman, Teamsters General Secretary-Treasurer, emphasized the contract's significance, stating, “This agreement addresses our members’ top priorities and delivers real improvements for drivers, mechanics, and yard workers nationwide.” The new contract not only boosts wages but also aims to expand union influence within the carhaul industry.

Over the duration of the agreement, workers will see a 16 percent increase in wages. The introduction of uncapped cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) in the last two years of the contract ensures wage protection amidst inflationary pressures. Furthermore, the removal of the indefinite "new business" clause, which previously facilitated reduced rates undermining existing standards, marks another victory for the workers.

The agreement further fortifies work preservation language, closing gaps in areas such as pay discrepancies, terminal assignments, and accident accountability. These changes aim to solidify the rights and protections of Teamsters members across the board.

Avral Thompson, Director of the Teamsters Carhaul Division, highlighted the contract's broader impact, remarking, “This agreement delivers significant improvements for Carhaul Teamsters and positions us to grow union density in this critical industry.” The enhanced terms are expected to raise standards and foster better working conditions for thousands of members nationwide.

The NMATA is a comprehensive agreement covering numerous Teamsters throughout the United States, negotiated with active participation from grassroots members representing various employers and local units.

Reflecting on the contract's achievements, Keith Pruitt, a driver at Cassens Transport and member of Teamsters Local 89, commented, “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.”

Established in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is a major labor union representing 1.3 million members in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further details, visit Teamster.org. Stay updated by following their social media channels on X and Facebook.

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