What Companies are Doing to Address the Driver Shortage for Tanker Trucks
The trucking industry is facing a relentless driver shortage crisis. This has caused severe deficits in hiring new truck drivers, leading to bottlenecks in delivery and other issues. In order to keep up with demand, companies need to recruit nearly one million new drivers in the next decade. So what can companies do to address this issue?
Reasons Behind The Shortage
There are several reasons why there is a shortage of qualified drivers for tanker trucks. One of the main causes is the lack of young people entering the profession; only 6-7% of commercial truck drivers are under 25 years old. Additionally, many potential drivers are deterred by long hours on the road, low wages, and poor benefits packages.
Another factor that contributes to the shortage of drivers for tanker trucks is the increasing cost and difficulty of obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The tests required to obtain a CDL are more difficult than ever, making it harder for potential drivers to become qualified. Aspiring drivers must also go through extensive background checks before they can get their CDLs, which can be costly and time-consuming. Finally, there has been an increase in regulations surrounding this industry that make it even harder for new drivers to enter the field.
Recruiting Strategies
As the driver shortage crisis in the trucking industry continues, companies are actively seeking out ways to gain qualified drivers for their fleets of tanker trucks. One strategy that many companies are implementing is offering higher wages and improved benefits packages. By increasing pay and offering better benefits, companies hope to attract and retain talented drivers who would otherwise seek out other industries or professions.
In addition to offering better compensation, many companies are focusing on improving the quality of life for drivers both on and off the road. This includes providing comfortable sleeping quarters in the trucks, as well as access to amenities such as gyms and showers at rest stops. These improvements to the quality of life can help make the job more attractive to potential drivers who might otherwise be deterred by long hours and the rigors of life on the road.
Another strategy that is gaining traction among companies is investing in driver training programs. By offering comprehensive training programs that provide aspiring drivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain their CDLs, companies can help ease the burden of obtaining a commercial driver’s license. Additionally, many companies are offering to cover the costs associated with obtaining a CDL in order to make the profession more accessible to a wider pool of potential candidates.
Finally, companies are also turning to technology as a means of attracting and retaining qualified drivers. Many companies are investing in vehicle tracking systems and other technologies that can help drivers operate more efficiently and safely, as well as better manage their time on and off the road. By providing drivers with the tools and resources they need to succeed, companies can help create a more attractive and welcoming work environment, which can, in turn, lead to greater driver retention and satisfaction.
Technology Solutions
Technology can also play an important role in addressing the driver shortage crisis. Automation can help reduce workloads for existing employees while also making it easier for new recruits to learn how things work quickly and efficiently. Additionally, technology can help improve safety on the roads by providing real-time data about traffic conditions or alerting drivers when they are approaching dangerous areas or fatigue levels become too high.
Implement Surge Busters
One of the most effective technological advances which can help recruit AND retain drivers is Surge Busters. This might sound unusual, but the truth is truck drivers who transport liquids by tanker truck and who use Surge Busters report a far more enjoyable working experience. Because the liquid surge is almost entirely eliminated during their drive, they have a much easier time managing their truck, they have lower stress, they end up with more energy, and ultimately they are happier working. When you implement this technology, you have a unique offering for recruits while also providing a unique work environment that drivers don’t want to leave.