To no one’s surprise, the current shortage of truck drivers remains a significant concern in the trucking industry. Recent research gathered last October by the American Transportation Research Institute asserts the deficits in available drivers as the industry’s key issue. Additionally, the research points to critical challenges in retaining current drivers and providing agreeable compensation for their positions.
According to FreightWaves, many industry insiders note that there has always been a driver shortage in the industry. The only difference now are everyday consumers becoming more aware of the issue. Unfavorable wages, extensive hours, and an unpredictable work schedule are just a few fundamental factors that have always contributed to a driver shortage—long before it has been this pronounced in the public eye. Industry insiders also alluded to current regulations that forbid those under 21-years-old to engage in interstate commercial driving.
Efforts to Recruit New Drivers
The American Trucking Association put out recent estimates that the current shortage of truck drivers in the U.S. is at 80,000. Furthermore, it projects that number could double—to 160,000—by 2028.
The industry is also relatively older, and male dominated. According to demographic data assembled by Zippia, roughly 80 percent of professional truck drivers are men. Additionally, the average age of all professional tucker drivers is 48 years old.
Certain proposals have been thrusted into industry discussion that aim to address these figures. A prominent example is the FMCSA’s pilot program that, if enacted, would permit motor carriers to employee 18, 19, and 20-year-olds and allow them to fully operate trucks in interstate commerce.
In theory, this proposal will introduce prospective drivers into the industry at a younger age. In return, these brand new and inexperienced drivers will be expected to alleviate the current labor shortage in the trucking industry. Many have called into question whether or not these younger drivers will have the qualifications to safely operate commercial trucks.
Qualifying Newer Drivers
Ironically, many carriers find hiring on newer and inexperienced drivers to be more advantageous than deferring to older and experienced veteran drivers. FreightWaves highlights carriers’ ability to mold newer drivers to their systems and that newer drivers are less likely to have poor work habits. Additionally, newer drivers will less likely have negative opinions about the industry or job. Rather, they will enter the position with fresh eyes and aspiration.
According to FreightWaves, carriers that engage newer drivers into disciplined and engaging training programs have a great chance of fostering employees that are loyal and productive. Ideally, these investments in newer drivers can further improve retention of their workforce.
Carrier’s Responsibility of the Driver Shortage
No matter how carriers go about their hiring process, it is necessary for them to be aware of their own responsibility in the current driver shortage. Many carriers point to this shortage because there are not enough qualified candidates available. However, as FrieghtWaves reveals, drivers who have left previous carriers cite low pay, extended layovers, and a general disrespect from their employers as reasons they are not reentering the workforce. Carriers cannot assume that newer drivers will put up with similar conditions. Going forward, carriers must hold themselves responsible for how their employees are managed and that employee feedback is heard and acknowledged.
Final Thoughts
The driver shortage remains to be a relevant issue that plagues the trucking industry. Opening positions to younger and less experienced drivers presents carriers with favorable control over the development and retention of a loyal and productive workforce. Of course, only if it is supplemented by investing in proper training programs that engage and discipline newer drivers. Carriers must also recognize their role in the current driver shortage and legitimatize their employees’ concerns.
The driver shortage will continue to be an issue worthy of discussion. If you are interested in learning about it more, please do not hesitate to contact one of our team members. We are more than happy to field any additional questions you may have regarding domestic logistics.
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