At Estes, we know that building a more sustainable future takes collaboration. That’s why we’re proud to partner with industry-leading organizations, nonprofits, research institutions, and regulatory bodies that share our vision for reducing emissions, improving transparency, and driving innovation across the freight industry. From data-driven carbon tracking to circular economy initiatives, these partnerships help us turn ambition into action and move the entire freight transportation industry forward.
Estes was one of the first carriers to join the EPA’s SmartWay Transport Partnership in 2004, proving our early and ongoing commitment to a cleaner future. Through SmartWay, we track and reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and choose certified vendors for our tractors, trailers, and tires.
In 2023, Estes partnered with Watershed to calculate our first-ever carbon footprint for Scopes 1 and 2 (direct and indirect emissions from our operations). This data-driven approach helps us pinpoint emissions hot spots, set smarter reduction targets, and manage our environmental impact. Explore this year’s footprint in our 2024 annual report.
In 2025, Estes joined the Smart Freight Centre to strengthen our global approach to emissions reduction. Using the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) framework, we’re refining how we calculate allocated emissions and collaborating across the freight industry to drive innovation and reach our decarbonization goals.
Estes is partnering with SMC³ and other LTL carriers on developing a standardized allocated emissions calculator, with the first phase having launched in January 2025. Built on EPA SmartWay and GLEC standards, this model will give customers clear insights into the carbon impact of their freight, empowering smarter, more sustainable shipping decisions. Estes is using this calculator to launch allocated emissions reports for customers, with a pilot program currently underway.
Estes partners with EcoVadis, a trusted global leader in sustainability ratings, to benchmark our performance, reduce risk, and continuously improve our environmental impact. In addition, Estes is participating in the Together for Sustainability (TfS) initiative to provide even more visibility into our sustainability performance.
Estes partners with the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), a global nonprofit that helps organizations measure and disclose their environmental impact. CDP’s annual scoring highlights risks and opportunities, guiding data-driven strategies for a more sustainable future.
Estes is a proud member of the Dock to Door (D2D) Coalition, led by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. This cross-sector alliance of more than 85 member organizations drives next-gen innovation to build a more connected, sustainable, and resilient supply chain—from dock to door.
Estes is collaborating with Virginia Commonwealth University, Molg, and regional partners to explore circular solutions that reduce waste and protect ecosystems. Early efforts focus on extending battery life cycles by keeping them out of landfills, recovering rare earth materials, and supporting sustainable reuse.
Estes meets all regulatory requirements set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and is fully certified under its current freight transportation standards, demonstrating our dedication to cleaner air and responsible operations.
Read a summary of Estes' corporate responsibility efforts in 2024.
Check out a recap of Estes’ corporate responsibility efforts in 2023.
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