A shortage of drivers hikes up shipping rates

It’s no secret that truck drivers are needed. In the last decade, it’s been harder to drum up interest in the career. Part of the problem is that many young people see it as antiquated and sure to succumb to automation. But that opinion is based on assumption and not adequate information.

Many studies on our industry offer drivers a bright outlook. There’s no doubt automation will impact the role of the traditional truck driver, but that doesn’t mean those jobs will be disappearing altogether. In fact, it may even be beneficial in adding jobs to the industry.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. In the short term, the lack of drivers within our industry is causing some major headaches for the shipping of goods. In fact, it’s having a major impact on our overall economy. This year alone, Tyson Foods, Inc., expects to pay more than $200 million over what they spent last year on shipping. This isn’t due to an increase in quantity, but rather due to the rising cost of shipping companies — driven primarily by the shortage of drivers. In short, our food could become more expensive because there aren’t enough truck drivers on the road.

The need for more drivers is a topic that’s near and dear to our hearts. But the reason we hark isn’t merely due to our love for our industry. It’s also because we love our country. And the bottom line is that Trucking is good for America.