CARB Compliance Truths for Small Fleets in 2014

Understanding where your business fits in with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Regulations can be a challenge.  And yet operating ignorant of these laws and regulations can not only potentially bring fines but may jeopardize your business.  Here at Prime Time Equipment we work with medium sized fleets and small fleets helping to make sure your fleet is in compliance and can continue operating both profitably and with a long term plan in mind.

If you are unsure about where your fleet fits in, here are some frequently asked questions we see in regards to CARB regulations with small fleets.

This is considered a VERY small fleet!
(photo courtesy of tamahaji Photo Credit2)

How do I know if I am considered a small fleet?

According the Air Resources Board regulations updated November of 2013, any owner-operator is considered a small fleet if they own 1-3 heavy duty trucks.  

Does it matter if I have a leasing arrangement with a motor carrier?

If you own your own truck you are considered a small fleet regardless of whether you are under a leasing arrangement or contract your own loads.

What are the compliance requirements for a small fleet?

Heavy duty vehicles in the fleet (1-3 trucks) must comply by meeting PM filter requirements.  This can be met by installing PM filter retrofits approved by the ARB or by operating heavy duty equipment with a 2007 model year or newer which should have the highest level PM filter as standard equipment.  

Purchasing a Used Truck with model year 2007 or newer
Can help your Small Fleet meet CARB requirements

In order to comply, a small fleet must meet the following schedule:

• One vehicle must have a PM approved filter by January 1, 2014
• Two vehicles must have PM approved filters by January 1, 2015
• Three vehicles must have PM approved filters by January 1, 2016 

What if I am unable to meet the required deadlines?

There are extensions available through meeting good faith effort deadlines and other options depending on your circumstances.  For most owner-operators or small fleet owners it is best to seek professional help from a dealer that has experience working with the state of California and helping fleets to understand their options now and the implications of their decisions for the future.  For this reason Prime Time Equipment continues to help owners of semi trucks in Fontana and Southern California create plans that will enable them to not only meet deadlines today but prepare for the future and long term success.  

If you are seeking answers to your questions regarding CARB compliance regulations, visit http://www.arb.ca.gov/  or call us today at 909-357-9961 to discuss your needs and how we might be able to help.