Transportation & Logistics

Overview

Bricker Graydon provides nationwide, full-service legal support to clients across the transportation and logistics industry — including motor carriers, brokers, shippers, third-party logistics and warehousing providers, and stakeholders of all sizes. We advise across all modes of surface transportation, helping clients move goods efficiently and safely from Point A to Point B.

Our attorneys understand the industry's complex risks, regulations, and operational challenges — including the integration of emerging technologies like autonomous and zero-emission vehicles. With experience litigating commercial disputes in federal and state courts, appearing before agencies such as the PUCO and the FMCSA, and offering legislative insight and safety audit experience, we help clients navigate change and maintain compliance.

From contract negotiation, assisting in mergers and acquisitions, to providing advice on labor issues and business restructuring, we deliver strategic legal counsel to keep your operations running smoothly, safely, and within regulatory bounds.

What We Do

Corporate & Transactional

Advise on mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and corporate structuring
Draft and negotiate contracts among brokers, shippers, carriers, and warehouse operators
Convert private fleets to for-hire operations
Establish equipment leasing programs

Emerging Technologies

Counsel on data privacy, cybersecurity, AI, and tech adoption
Advise on infrastructure and utility planning for zero-emission and carbon-neutral fleets

Employee Benefits

Design and review health, retirement, and fringe benefit plans
Conduct audits and recommend corrective actions
Resolve disputes and handle DOL/IRS investigations
Integrate benefit programs in corporate transactions

Fleet & USDOT Authority Management

Secure and maintain FMCSA and state operating authorities
Manage vehicle titling, registration, and fuel/highway use tax compliance (IFTA, IRP, KYU, NYHUT, etc.)
File UCRs, MCS-150 updates, Form 5889, and Hazmat registrations
Obtain nationwide alcohol transportation permits

Government Relations

Track and analyze transportation-related legislation
Draft bills and regulatory proposals
Advocate with legislators and agency officials
Strengthen client visibility and influence on Capitol Square
Lead coalition development and stakeholder engagement
Provide strategic counsel on policy and licensing

Labor & Employment

Advise on driver and contractor classification
Support collective bargaining and labor relations
Defend workers’ compensation and OSHA claims

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Represent clients in litigation, arbitration, and mediation
Prosecute and defend predatory tow claims
Challenge Freight Guard, Carrier 411 and defamatory reports to similar online forums
Defend Truth in Leasing Act claims
Prosecute and defend cargo loss and related indemnity claims
Defend class and collective action claims related to driver misclassification
Manage certificate actions, enforcement proceedings, and appeals
Defend broker liability cases under FAAAA
Accident response and excess liability counsel

Regulatory & Compliance

Counsel on FMCSA, DOT, PHMSA, FAA, and state regulations
Offer safety and compliance consulting, including fractional fleet safety director services
Nationwide audit representation and safety rating upgrade petitions
Address hazmat transport and environmental compliance