The logistics and transportation industry represents approximately 9% of the United States' gross domestic product (GDP), or approximately $930 billion in sales . (IRS) This unique industry continues to grow at an estimated level each year. History: In 1769, a French engineer named Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot introduced what became known as the first steam-powered automobile. His invention resembled that of a tricycle although it was not the average size of a tricycle, it was oddly oversized. It was designed as a means of transporting cannons for the military. When not loaded, his invention had a tendency to tip over due to its weight. Since its invention, several other engineers have attempted to market their improved versions of Cugnot's automobile, with additional features that would allow them to transport not only goods but also passengers. A law was adopted which prohibits them from driving their vehicles on public roads. This movement caused the birth of the railway system. In the late 1800s, the first automobile with a gasoline engine was introduced and among them were the first trucks called motor wagons. These motor wagons became known as a replacement for the horse and buggy. Although many of these wagons were buggy-like, the result was a heavy body that allowed only short trips over rough roads. Of course, this new invention had its share of obstacles; they were considered unreliable and were often destroyed by operators because their knowledge of operating these wagons was little to no. Fueling these truck cars became another major concern for truck operators, as the steam system they were operating in required them to stop from time to time. hours and relo...... middle of paper ......uto.htmlInternal Revenue Service. Overview of the trucking industry. LMSB-04-1107-075. Retrieved May 9, 2008 from: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/article/0,,id=170623,00.htmlLeray, C. Biodiesel. (2008) Retrieved May 20, 2008 from: http://www.cyberlipid.org/glycer/biodiesel.htmN. Snell. Guide to transport and logistics. (2008) Retrieved May 9, 2008 from: http://www.work.comU.S. Department of Employment Administration and Training. Transportation industry. (October 2006) Retrieved May 9, 2008 from: http://www.doleta.gov/BRG/Indprof/Transportation.cfmSupply Chain Digest. Logistics cost survey. (2006). Retrieved May 13, 2008 from: http://www.scdigest.com/assets/reps/SCDigest_Logistics_Cost_Survey_2006.pdfMadison, N. What is a Freight Broker? (2003) Retrieved May 9, 2008 from: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-freight-broker.htm