Almost everything that consumers buy has been transported by truckers at some point along the way. The industry now faces three major issues: driver shortages, driver retention and high gas prices.
Lack of driver
The driver shortage is a multi-faceted problem. Many drivers have reached an age where they want to retire. Meanwhile, the demand for drivers continues to increase as more goods need to be transported.
Fewer new drivers are entering the field. They cite low wages, poor working conditions and lack of benefits as the main reasons. These problems are also problems for long-time drivers.
Some employers are thinking “creatively” and actively recruiting female drivers to alleviate the shortage. The average age of a truck driver is 35, and employers are also looking into training programs to bring younger drivers on board, but haulers worry about rising insurance rates for older drivers teens.
Driver retention
There is a disconnect between drivers, employers and industry experts on how to solve the problem of retaining existing drivers. Industry experts advocate for mental health resources, along with smoking cessation and weight loss programs. The reasoning is that it will foster better driver-employer relationships. However, drivers say they want pay rises, more time at home and more control over their routes.
Gas prices
The cost of fuel is stressing everyone out and this is especially evident in the trucking industry. Everyone is playing the blame game as to why fuel prices have gone up. Some blame cuts in production and climate change. Others believe it’s a plan by oil companies to recoup revenue lost during the pandemic.
Rising gas prices are putting more pressure on employers and truckers to finish jobs faster to remain profitable.
Everyone feels the effects
The problems faced by independent operators in business is one that is felt all along the supply chain. Without drivers, products are not delivered. High gas prices are making delivery more expensive, and the costs are being passed on to consumers across the country. It’s all part of a complex problem that doesn’t look like it’s going to be resolved in the near future.
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