Truck Driver Shortage becoming US Nations Issue

Among the vivid memories from the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic are the sights of trucks diligently transporting groceries and essential supplies. In the spring of 2020, as the nation grappled with the onset of the pandemic and the staggering loss of 22 million jobs, the role of truck drivers became more crucial than ever. A few months later, the mood lifted somewhat as trucks began delivering new vaccines, offering a glimmer of hope to millions nationwide. The commitment and sacrifices of the truck drivers during this time touched the hearts of many Americans.

The newly passed infrastructure bill introduces a federal apprenticeship program aimed at training thousands of young truck drivers, starting at age 18. This program seeks to address the labor shortages that the trucking industry faces due to various challenges such as illness, inflation, increasing fuel and part costs, and regulatory burdens. This initiative, backed by the American Trucking Association, underscores the importance of supporting this critical industry through government policy. Moreover, the growing acceptance of autonomous trucking technologies promises enhancements in safety, fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, and addressing driver shortages.

Trucking is not only one of the most heavily regulated sectors in the U.S. but also one of the most essential, as trucks transport 70 percent of the nation’s freight. The job is demanding under normal circumstances, made even more so during the pandemic’s early months with states enacting measures like closing rest areas vital for truckers. During this period, truckers struggled to find basic necessities like food while on the road.

The urgency for quicker replenishment of essential goods led to a historic move on March 13, 2020, when the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued an Emergency Declaration. This allowed truckers to safely extend their federally-restricted “hours of service” to transport critical supplies. This provision has been extended periodically since then. In 2020, the Department of Transportation also issued numerous COVID-related regulatory reliefs to ease transportation challenges, followed by a revision in the hours of service rules to offer more flexibility to all truck drivers.

As the third year of the pandemic unfolds, supply chain pressures continue due to ongoing global disruptions and increased consumer demand, partly fueled by federal stimulus. The reliance on younger drivers to help meet this demand is contributing to ongoing shortages and an inflationary loop, posing significant challenges for the current administration.

Efforts are underway to address these issues, including a supply chain task force and a trucking action plan led by the secretaries of Labor and Transportation. However, making trucking an appealing short-term job or a long-term career is challenging. Truck drivers face numerous hardships, from maneuvering heavy loads in traffic to dealing with lengthy unpaid waits during loading and unloading.

Fuel costs continue to be a concern, with no significant relief outlined in the “Trucking Action Plan.” In states like California, where ports are congested, diesel prices hover around five dollars per gallon— a steep cost for truckers who manage large fuel tanks and low fuel economy.

The numerous challenges in recruiting and retaining new drivers, particularly those as young as 18, highlight the essential role of the trucking sector not only to the U.S. economy but also to the everyday lives of Americans. These challenges are more than sector-specific; they are crucial to national well-being, making them a priority for everyone involved.

Elaine Chao, former U.S. secretary of Labor and U.S. secretary of Transportation, emphasizes the strategic importance of the trucking industry. As a board member of Embark, a self-driving truck technology company, she continues to contribute to the evolution of trucking technologies.

Americans need to understand the US food, consumer goods we all take for granted that will be at our stores, gas stations.  American’s need to have a good discussion with their kids and see if the trucking industry might be a good career.

If truckers were to stop working, it would have profound and immediate effects on the economy and daily life, given the central role trucking plays in the distribution of goods. Here are some potential impacts:

1. Supply Chain Disruptions: Trucking is critical for transporting goods across short and long distances. A stoppage would disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages of products ranging from food and medical supplies to consumer goods.
2. Retail Shortages: Supermarkets, pharmacies, and other retailers would experience shortages within a few days. Essential items like food, toiletries, and medications would be in limited supply, potentially leading to panic buying and stockpiling.
3. Manufacturing Delays: Many manufacturing processes rely on just-in-time delivery to minimize inventory costs. Without regular deliveries, production lines could come to a halt, affecting industries from automotive to electronics.
4. Economic Impact: The sudden halt in truck transportation could lead to significant economic losses. Industries dependent on regular deliveries would face delays, reduced output, and financial losses, potentially leading to job cuts and business closures.
5. Healthcare and Emergency Services Impact: The transportation of critical supplies like pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and other healthcare necessities would be compromised, affecting hospitals, clinics, and other health services.
6. Waste Accumulation: Garbage and recycling services would be disrupted, leading to waste accumulation that could pose public health risks.
7. Food Supply Issues: The agriculture industry relies heavily on trucking for both supply of materials and distribution of products. Disruptions could lead to spoilage of perishable goods and significant food supply issues.
8. Fuel Shortages: Delivery of petroleum and diesel to fuel stations relies on trucking, and a stoppage could quickly lead to fuel shortages, impacting all sectors that depend on transportation.
9. Price Inflation: With the supply chain disrupted, the scarcity of goods would likely drive up prices, leading to inflation.
10. Social Unrest: Extended disruptions could lead to public discontent and unrest due to the unavailability of essential goods and services.

Truckers are a critical backbone of the global economy, and their work ensures the smooth operation of nearly all other industries. A halt in trucking operations would not only affect the economy but also daily life, highlighting the essential nature of this profession.