If you are seeking a new role in the trucking industry, it’s helpful to understand the trucking labor market. There is a sizable logistics workforce shortage, and nothing illustrates this quite as well as truck driver shortage statistics.
Today, you’ll learn more about the impact of technology on trucking, the causes of current driver shortages and finally, truck driver shortage statistics to demonstrate the reach of the issue. By staying informed on driver shortage trends, you can better position yourself to approach the job market.
Overview of Truck Driver Shortage Statistics
First, let’s recap some key trucking industry statistics regarding driver shortages. The American Journal of Transportation indicates that 80,000 drivers are currently unemployed in the United States.
More alarming is that this problem is only expected to get worse. It’s largely accepted that by 2030, the shortage will double—which is worrisome considering that 70% of American shoppers order online.
And what does the eCommerce industry rely on? Truck drivers.
According to the International Road Transport Union, certain truck driver demographics are contributing to these shortages. The IRU found that, when surveying over 4,700 trucking companies in the Americas, Asia and Europe, the percentage of drivers under 25 years old was 12% or less.
This is a mounting issue, especially considering the aging workforce.
The American Trucking Association indicates that the average age of an over-the-road truck driver is 46, and the average age for new drivers just starting their careers is 35. Both of these statistics are alarming, as they indicate that the workforce is largely inching towards retirement, and insufficient younger drivers are pursuing the career path to replace their aging counterparts.
In other words, the truck driver shortage will only increase unless something turns around.
Impact of Technology on the Trucking Industry
Additionally, it’s important to consider technology's impact on the trucking industry. Let’s walk through some of the most crucial technology that has evolved how truck drivers work.
One of the main technological advancements is route optimization, which allows drivers to use advanced GPS and routing software. This enables a more seamless drive for truck drivers looking to improve delivery times. It also benefits the company, as it reduces fuel consumption.
Another advancement is electronic logging devices, which automate the recording of driving hours. Then, there are driver monitoring systems, which monitor driver behavior with cameras and sensors.
Like technological advances in any industry, there have been both positive and negative impacts on truck drivers. The positive impact is a more efficient, safe driver experience.
However, the larger challenge that drivers may face is job displacement.
There’s also the looming threat of automation. If trucks become automated in the future, it could have tremendous implications for truck drivers’ careers. The threat of this may have resulted in folks choosing to pursue a different path.
Causes of the Truck Driver Shortage
Let’s dive deeper into the various causes of the truck driver shortage to better understand why the shortage is projected to mushroom into 160,000 open roles in 2030.
For starters, the current workforce is aging, as demonstrated by the average age of truck drivers and the small percentage of drivers under 25. This is a significant challenge for the industry.
Then, there’s the question of recruitment. Many organizations face recruitment challenges since the trucking industry is a candidate’s job market. Therefore, to entice drivers to join their fleet, companies have to offer significant benefits and perks.
There are also economic and regulatory factors that are contributing to the truck driver shortage.
Truck driving can require significant time away from home and long hours. Therefore, some drivers may believe that the wages don’t compensate for these requirements and are looking to pursue a job with more work-life balance.
Additionally, there is a misconception that truck drivers do not receive compelling and enough benefits to make them want to stay in their role. The key is to seek an organization to drive with (like GP Transco) that offers robust benefits. However, this misconception may be to blame for some drivers seeking alternate careers.
Drivers can also be worried about the possibility of an economic downturn, which could result in fewer products being purchased and, therefore, needing to be shipped.
Finally, regulatory factors to consider include guidelines regarding how much you can drive within a certain period of time. Complying with these can be frustrating for drivers.
According to Gene Seroka of the Port of Los Angeles, “We have got to find a way to attract and recruit and retain workers in both warehousing and trucking. They’ll have to be better paid, and there will be benefits associated with this.”
Strategies to Mitigate the Driver Shortage
Of course, there are strategies that organizations can implement to mitigate the impacts of the truck driver shortage. Let’s walk through some of them.
The first is being more innovative regarding recruitment. By showcasing benefits that entice drivers to join your fleet, you’ll be able to work around the driver shortage more easily.
For instance, GP Transco offers drivers a myriad of envy-worthy benefits, including industry-leading pay (an estimated $80-95,000 in the first year), outstanding equipment that makes driving safely easier, six-month pay raises, 401k retirement funds, paid holidays, driver recognition bonuses, health and life insurance and more.
Training programs and other initiatives can also attract new drivers. For instance, being in an organization that encourages drivers to continue to improve is beneficial from a retention standpoint. Initiatives can also attract new drivers, such as allowing drivers to have a pet buddy, courtesy cars and fuel savings profit-sharing initiatives.
Future Outlook and Solutions
As the truck driver shortage statistics show, the trucking industry must figure out how to attract and retain younger drivers to prevent even more damaging shortages.
In the future, we can see benefits continue to expand, as well as fleets utilizing more eco-friendly trucks to make their transportation more sustainable. This can also attract more folks to the role who are worried about the environmental implications of trucking.
Additionally, technology can provide long-term solutions, as now there are tools available that make getting to the destination more seamlessly and safely than ever possible. This can also appeal to those considering this job.
GP Transo is committed to addressing the truck driver shortage by offering an excellent salary, desirable benefits and a myriad of perks associated with driving for the fleet.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Let’s jump into a GP Transco success story. One initiative that our drivers love is the ability to bring a pet buddy on the road with them. This mitigates the loneliness many drivers feel when on the road.
Another initiative is a safety bonus. Drivers at GP Transco are rewarded for driving safely—which makes doing so appealing. And finally, a favorite GP Transco perk includes paid holidays with loved ones.
Ready to learn how you can make a difference driving for GP Transco? Apply to drive today!
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