Trucking Industry Links
Rising Pay for Truckers is Reshaping the Industry
Linda Dimyan
Sunday, 1 Nov 2015 | 3:00 PM ETCNBC.com
The U.S. truck driver shortage has reached nearly 48,000 and is driving up salaries, with long-haul trucker pay rising 17% since 2013 to an average of $57,000. The shortage is expected to grow due to industry expansion and a retiring workforce. The trucking industry, which carries 68.8% of domestic freight, needs to hire 89,000 drivers annually over the next decade. Challenges include the aging workforce, laws limiting younger drivers, and low female participation. Despite these hurdles, the American Trucking Associations believe the shortage can be addressed.
The ATA proposes the following solutions to address the shortage:
- Increase driver pay and offer sign-on bonuses.
- Offer more at-home time.
- Lower the interstate driving age.
- Improving driver images.
- Cater to former military.
- Better the treatment of drivers by companies in the supply chain.
- Autonomous commercial trucks.
In the meantime, Costello and economic analyst Rod Suarez believe the industry should “expect driver pay to continue rising as long as the driver shortage continues.”
American Trucking AssociationSince 1933, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) has advocated for the trucking industry, promoting highway safety, environmental sustainability, and profitability. ATA educates policymakers and the public on trucking’s vital economic role and advances responsible industry policies. |
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety AdministrationThe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), established on January 1, 2000, aims to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries. It enforces safety regulations, targets high-risk carriers and drivers, improves safety technologies, and raises safety awareness. FMCSA collaborates with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as industry and safety groups, to ensure safer motor carrier operations. |
