The freedom and flexibility of becoming a truck driver have always piqued people’s interest. While others loathe long trips, some love the feeling of the steering wheel’s rubberized grip pressed against their palms as they traverse unfamiliar routes. However, some still have doubts about making a career out of trucking.
Are truck drivers in demand? The short answer is yes. Global supply-chain disruptions and interstate logistics issues triggered an influx of companies needing truckers. The U.S. doesn’t have enough truckers making routes. However, although trucking is an in-demand job, turning it into a lucrative career requires understanding the industry — and this brief piece will help you.
So, why is there a shortage of truck drivers? Supply-chain issues stemming from the recent pandemic significantly increased the demand for trucking operators. Orders far outnumbered the trucker population. Unfortunately, not many drivers were up to the task, so they opted for other career options.
As the labor shortage worsens, logistics companies gradually grow more desperate. They’re willing to pay a lot more nowadays. Statistics show that more than 12,000 truckers qualified for a massive pay rise this 2022, thus increasing their base to around $95,000 to $110,000. Aspiring truckers should take advantage of this gap immediately.
How many truck drivers are there in the United States? The American Trucking Association (ATA) states that the U.S. currently has a shortage of 80,000 truck drivers. Most of this shortage lies in long-haul trucking.
Again, the demand for truckers massively spiked, so drivers now had the authority to accept and refuse orders. Simply put, they became picky. Admittedly, drivers have been undervalued and underpaid for the longest time, and the recent shortage made it clear that tens of thousands will draw the line if their employers cross them.
Have you decided to make a career out of truck driving? Here’s everything you need to become an employed trucker, lease operator, or owner-operator.
Becoming a full-fledged trucker takes time. Although the entry barriers are low and licensing requires minimal training, maneuvering semi-trailers plus several tons of cargo safely requires years of driving experience. You can’t fake tenure. Unfortunately, defensive driving is something you learn on the road, not in lectures.
Truck drivers don’t need a college degree. You can apply for a license after training at any ATA-accredited truck driving school. To qualify, you’ll need the following:
Although all commercial trucks need primary liability insurance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific insurance requirements for various trucks. For instance, let’s compare semi-trailers and tow trucks. Trailers only need general liability. However, tow truck drivers might need extra on-hook and towing coverage.
Employed drivers don’t have to worry about equipment, but aspiring owner-operators will need to invest in them. You can either lease or buy your trucks. As a leased operator, you’ll likely operate under another company’s contract, but if you get your own trailers, you might need to file your own.
Truckers don’t work the typical nine-to-five. Their day starts early, usually at around four in the morning, and they don’t get home until late in the evening. On long-haul trips, they might even have to sleep in their trucks.
Are you still wondering how long will truck drivers be needed? Check out some questions aspiring truckers commonly ask to get first-hand insights into the industry.
Are truck drivers in demand? Yes! But most truckers move on to different career paths because they feel underpaid and underappreciated. They want better pay and comprehensive benefits.
Truck driving is an excellent career choice for individuals with excellent driving records and a passion for the automotive industry.
Another reason why truck drivers are quitting is they can’t handle the mental pressure that comes with the job. One mistake could spell the difference between life and death.
If you’ve always wanted to become a truck driver, now’s the best time to actualize your goal. Considering the increasing demand for short- and long-distance truckers, you can expect a handsome wage from future employers. Again, the industry has a massive shortage of truck drivers. Companies will pay big bucks for experienced, reliable truckers who can help them transport goods across the country.
Will the demand for truckers die down? Possibly, but not any time soon. Note that supply-chain issues disrupted different industries, and these sectors will continue expanding their logistics departments until the global network normalizes.
Is your trucking company ready to expand its operations? Assured Standard can help! Check out our helpful tips on how to get reliable, professional truckers for your business.
