Is AB5 Enforcement Increasing? What California Fleets Should Know Now

AB5 has been part of the California trucking landscape for years, but recent activity signals something new. Is enforcement beginning to take shape?  

Last month, FreightWaves reported what appeared to be the first AB5 enforcement action involving trucking companies in California. Regulators cited three carriers after reviewing how they were using contractors for driving work. 

For many fleets, this marked a meaningful shift. AB5 has been widely discussed since its introduction, but enforcement has been limited. As this could be the first action on record, more carriers are reexamining how they manage their driver workforce as they plan for 2026. 

What This Announcement Signals for Carriers 

While only a small group of companies were cited, the implications extend far beyond those cases. This activity suggests increased attention from state agencies and more scrutiny of contractor-based driving work. 

Carriers may begin to see: 

• More review of how daily work is structured 

• More questions around contractor heavy operating models 

• More uncertainty when contractors support essential routes 

• More pressure to maintain stable coverage even as conditions shift 

This environment has many fleets looking for workforce strategies that offer predictability and confidence. 

Why More California Carriers Are Exploring Outsourced Driver Models 

Across the state, fleets are transitioning toward outsourcing their drivers because this provides a clearer operational foundation. With W2 staffing and outsourcing, carriers can benefit from: 

• More predictable workforce planning 

• Fewer concerns tied to contractor arrangements 

• Coverage support for PTO, sick time, and gaps 

• A smoother path to scale as business needs change 

This shift is about choosing a workforce structure that feels steadier during a time when contractor usage is receiving increased attention. 

How TransForce Helps Carriers Build a More Predictable Workforce 

For carriers seeking stability and a workforce model that supports day-to-day operations, TransForce offers a practical solution through our Managed Workforce program. 

Managed Workforce gives carriers: 

A smooth transition for your current drivers 
We guide the conversion of your existing drivers onto TransForce payroll so you can continue working with the drivers you know and trust. Our process is structured to minimize disruption, with a 99 percent average onboarding retention rate. 

Full driver administration handled by our team 
TransForce manages payroll, benefits, onboarding support, and ongoing driver administration so your team can stay focused on operations. 

Operational stability as business needs change 
We help you adjust coverage as lanes, volumes, or schedules shift, supporting both steady operations and seasonal demand. 

Ongoing safety and driver support 
We support driver readiness through ongoing training, engagement, and safety-focused practices. Over time, TransForce drivers have recorded 27 percent fewer reportable accidents than private fleet drivers. 

Backfill support when needed 
If drivers are out due to vacation, illness, or schedule gaps, TransForce can help provide coverage to keep essential routes moving. 

This approach gives carriers a predictable, supported workforce model built around continuity, flexibility, and operational confidence. 

For fleets experiencing uncertainty or increased concerns on contractor usage, Managed Workforce creates a clearer, more predictable path forward. 

Choosing a Steady Path Forward 

TransForce offers multiple workforce solutions, but Managed Workforce is the most practical fit for carriers navigating rising attention on contractor arrangements. It reduces operational stress, improves day-to-day consistency, and provides a partner focused on supporting your business as conditions evolve.  

Planning for 2026 

If you are reviewing your strategy or exploring a more predictable workforce model for next year, our team is ready to help. 

See how Managed Workforce supports carriers across California:  
Focus on Your Business, Let Us Manage Your Drivers