The truck driver shortage has been a major issue in the transportation industry for years, and it’s only getting worse. In 2021, the American Trucking Association (ATA) reported a shortage of 80,000 drivers, an all-time high that could reach 160,000 by 2023. This shortage is having a significant impact on liquid loads transportation and other sectors of the industry.
What is Causing the Driver Shortage?
There are several factors contributing to the driver shortage, including an aging workforce and fewer people entering the field. The job itself can be demanding and stressful, with long hours away from home and unpredictable schedules.
Additionally, many potential drivers are deterred by rising costs associated with obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Obtaining a CDL can be an expensive and time-consuming endeavor. The cost of instruction is rising along with the requirement that applicants obtain special knowledge and experience regarding hazardous materials, air brakes, and other necessary areas of expertise. Furthermore, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently enacted regulations (https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/entry-level-driver-training-eldt) that require new drivers to first go through Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before becoming eligible to obtain a CDL. This further deters potential drivers from entering the field due to the additional training and cost burden.
How is the Driver Shortage Impacting Liquid Loads Transportation?
The driver shortage affects the entire economy, as over 68% of all freight is moved on U.S. highways. With fewer drivers available to transport goods, companies are struggling to keep up with demand for liquid loads transportation services. This has caused delays in shipments and increased costs for businesses that rely on these services to move their products across the country.
As the demand for liquid loads transportation continues to grow, companies must find ways to mitigate this issue in order to keep their operations running smoothly. This could include implementing innovative recruitment methods, offering training programs, or utilizing new technologies such as autonomous vehicles in order to fill the gap left by the lack of available drivers.
What Solutions Are Being Pursued?
In order to address this issue, some companies have implemented programs to attract more drivers into the field. These include offering competitive salaries and benefits packages as well as providing assistance with obtaining a CDL license. Additionally, some companies are investing in autonomous vehicles that can help reduce labor costs while still meeting customer needs.
Interestingly, businesses transporting liquid loads by truck have been looking into alternative solutions such as using railroads or pipelines instead of trucks. This reduces the need for drivers while still ensuring that goods get from point A to point B safely and efficiently.
Companies are also investing in technology such as automated driving systems which can help reduce the amount of time it takes for shipments to arrive at their destination.
The Answer is Here
The truck driver shortage is having a significant impact on liquid loads transportation and other sectors of the industry. Companies must take action now in order to ensure they can meet customer demands while also protecting their bottom line from rising costs associated with this issue.
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Give your drivers incentive to stay with you (or pick working with you) over anyone else by outfitting your fleet with Surge Busters.
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