Are you planning to kick off your trucking business plan and ready to get the wheels turning? You may have assumed everything is a bed of roses. But when you get into the industry, you will realize getting into gear can be more complicated than you imagined.
The trucking industry is prey to challenges, and the more informed you are about the specific vulnerabilities, the more prepared you will be. These challenges range far and wide, and no one knows when the dead-end will come. Many factors have also increased these challenges. They include advanced technology, driver shortages, and even international trade disputes.
The trucking industry issues are inevitable but have a lot to offer if you are ready and willing to focus on doing it right. Buckle up as Global Multi Services takes you through the trucking industry challenges in the United States.
- Driver shortage
- Constantly changing regulations
- Deteriorating infrastructure
- Financing a trucking company
DRIVER SHORTAGE
One of the biggest challenges the trucking industry experience in the United States is the shortage of truck drivers. According to reports, the trucking industry has more than 63,000 driver shortages. Also, only about 6% stay in their position every year. Reports from the American Trucking Association also indicate that it might grow to 100,000 by 2022.
Driver shortages are plaguing the trucking industry due to an aging population and increased demand from e-commerce. Also, older drivers are retiring with no replacement by younger generations. These have led to increased pressure to deliver on time, driver fatigue from extra hours on the road, and subsequent risk of accidents and injuries.
CONSTANTLY CHANGING REGULATIONS
The trucking industry is subject to constant review and revision. Each state in the United States also has different regulations. These make it difficult to operate and stay compliant in the industry. Trucking companies must now install devices that track the hours their trucks spend on the road every day. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has also proposed lengthening shifts, changing rules regarding breaks, and others.
Trucking companies must also update the drug & alcohol testing with the FCMSA. These cost trucking companies money and put fleets of trucks out of commission until they are complete. These regulations make it harder for trucking companies to deliver on time on top of the existing problem of driver shortages.
DETERIORATING INFRASTRUCTURE
Having a safe and reliable infrastructure is crucial for operating a successful trucking company. That is why trucking companies have an infrastructure spending plan. But these come with a cost. Asphalt deterioration, signage issues, construction delays, crumbling bridges, roads, and tunnels. All these affect the delivery of goods and cause accidents.
According to American Society of Civil Engineers reports, traffic congestion wastes more than $3.1 billion worth of fuel every year. These increase delivery delays and ruin perishable goods. It can also affect the trucking company’s reputation and cancellation of contracts. Unfortunately, these challenges cannot be controlled by the trucking industry officials.
FINANCING A TRUCKING COMPANY
The cost of running a trucking business is enormous and can get out of hand without proper research and understanding of how it works. Seeking the help of financing companies that suits your trucking business is also paramount. Apply for a business loan with tailored guidance on how to improve your trucking business funding changes. Advanced algorithms can also match you with lending solutions that meet your financial profile and needs.
KEY TAKEAWAY
The trucking industry has a lot to offer, and there are enough for you to claim your slice of the pie. But it comes with its challenges and several potholes. Global Multi Services is a truck permit that provides and operates across the United States. Reach out to us for all your trucking permit and license needs.
