Carbon Footprint and Reporting
As the nation’s largest privately owned freight carrier, we take our environmental responsibility seriously. That means at Estes we’re not just tracking emissions—we’re transforming how we operate. From solar-power arrays and electric trucks to route optimization and industry-leading emissions reporting tools, we’re taking measurable steps to lower our carbon footprint.
And with measurable decarbonization goals guiding our efforts, we’re proud of our commitment to helping build a more efficient, sustainable supply chain—one mile at a time.
Since 2023, Estes has measured and reported our annual carbon footprint in our Sustainability Report. Working with Watershed, our sustainability platform provider, we capture direct and indirect emissions data from our operations across Scopes 1, 2, and 3. Annual reporting allows us to make more informed, strategic decisions as we work toward lowering our emissions.
Through this data-driven approach, we’re able to:
- Analyze our emissions data with greater precision
- Identify emissions reduction opportunities across our operations
- Track progress and adjust strategies over time
- Better manage our environmental impact
Explore the full footprint and what it means for our sustainability journey in our 2025 Sustainability Report.
Our Allocated Emissions Reporting Program (AERP), available upon request, provides customers with shipment-level emissions data on a quarterly or annual basis. Aligned with Smart Freight Centre’s globally recognized GLEC framework, our AERP can help customers consolidate emissions data, track their sustainable freight transportation goals, and identify opportunities to reduce emissions through collaboration.
Estes is making strategic investments and operational improvements to lower our carbon emissions through:
Route Optimization: Optym’s advanced route optimization tools help us streamline delivery schedules, reduce total mileage, and boost load efficiency—reducing fuel consumption
Equipment Performance: We maintain a high-performing fleet through top-tier equipment and proactive maintenance, helping reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions while maximizing efficiency
Driver Efficiency: Samsara technology within our tractors monitors driver behavior and encourages fuel-smart habits. This telematics data allows us to assess vehicle performance through programs like the Driver Efficiency Score (DES), which measures environmental impact while empowering drivers to improve efficiency. These insights help advance driver and operational improvements while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Since the programs mid-2024 launch, 2025 DES scores increased by nearly 3% per period, with gains across all four program categories: coasting, cruise control, idling, and RPM (green band)
Training: We provide our drivers with hands-on training in sustainability-focused techniques like proper tire inflation, optimal shifting, speed control, and reduced idling—turning everyday habits into long-term environmental gains
2025 Sustainability Report
Discover the progress Estes has made toward lowering carbon emissions across our network.
2024 Sustainability Report
Read a summary of Estes' corporate responsibility efforts in 2024.
Sustainability at Estes