State of Trucking 2024

As of 2024, the trucking industry in the United States continues to play a crucial role in the economy, employing approximately 3.5 million truck drivers. This figure underlines the industry’s significant contribution to the U.S. job market, offering diverse opportunities from driving to various related roles​ (Warrior Logistics)​​ (CloudTrucks)​.

The trucking sector is facing challenges, including a shift in employment patterns. Despite a strong start, employment has begun to wane throughout 2023 and into 2024. This trend is partly due to many drivers moving from owner-operator roles to becoming W2 employees at larger fleets, which provided more security amid fluctuating market conditions. This shift is reflected in the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, which shows a sequential decrease in truck transportation employment in most months of 2024, indicating a trend of attrition among drivers​ (Coyote Logistics Resource Center)​.

The Biden-Harris Administration has been proactive in addressing the challenges faced by the trucking industry. Efforts include reducing barriers to obtaining commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and launching initiatives like the 90-Day Challenge to accelerate the expansion of Registered Apprenticeships. These actions aim to bring more drivers into the field and improve the quality of training and job retention​ (The White House)​.

Owner-operators, who make up about 10% of the U.S. trucking industry, continue to be a vital part of the sector. These self-employed drivers are generally older and often have military backgrounds. They tend to have safer driving records and have the potential to earn significantly more than company drivers, depending on various factors​ (CloudTrucks)​.

In response to a projected driver shortage that could reach 160,000 by 2030, the industry is exploring new recruitment avenues, including targeting younger people, women, and individuals from various backgrounds, and even considering international recruitment​ (Warrior Logistics)​.

Overall, the trucking industry is at a crossroads, with changing employment trends, regulatory impacts, and economic pressures shaping its future. These changes are creating new opportunities and challenges as the industry adapitates to meet evolving demands and workforce dynamics.