Being a trucker isn’t just a job; it’s a lifestyle that comes with its own set of unique challenges. As we roll into 2024, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 issues that truckers across the country are dealing with on a daily basis:
- Driver Shortage: The Quest for Skilled Drivers
- Organizations like the American Trucking Associations are working tirelessly to attract and retain talent in the industry. Our team here at Dynamic Freight Haulers is always looking to help our drivers maintain the best possible work-life balance while minimizing the challenges they face on the road every day. Trucking can be hard; that’s a fact. Most of our senior management first broke into the industry as drivers, so we also know what our drivers must face each day. We are a family here, and help is always just a phone call away!
- Parking Woes: The Search for Safe Stops
- Apps like TruckPark are stepping in to make this search easier by providing real-time parking availability information. Even with technical aids and improvements, it’s still one of the biggest issues drivers face each day. Our drivers here at Dynamic try to minimize this as much as possible by starting early so they are out of hours late afternoon and using paid parking services that some of the big fuel retailers offer, like Loves and Pilot. We always reimburse our drivers for any costs associated with parking.
- Driver Retention: Keeping the Wheels Turning
- Retaining experienced drivers has always been a challenge in the industry. From competitive job offers to burnout from long hours on the road, trucking companies are grappling with how to keep their drivers happy and engaged. Innovative strategies, such as mentorship programs and improved benefits, are being explored to address this issue. Here at Dynamic, we work with our drivers’ specific needs to ensure a great fit and a long relationship. A good portion of our drivers have been here since the beginning 12 years ago and serve as mentors to our less experienced team members. Our Ownership team understands that our drivers are the lifeblood of our company and treats them accordingly. We offer industry-leading compensation and safety bonus programs to our drivers, unforced dispatch, paid training, and company events. These and other benefits contribute to our low driver turnover rate and amazing safety rating!
- Fair Compensation: Paying for the Miles
- Truckers cover thousands of miles, often sacrificing time away from home and family. Ensuring they receive fair compensation for their hard work and dedication is crucial. Organizations like the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) advocate for fair pay practices and transparency in the industry. We at Dynamic pay all miles, paid delays, paid extra pickups & deliveries, and driver retention.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Navigating the Unexpected
- The global supply chain is a complex web of interconnectedness. Disruptions, whether from natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, or unexpected events, can have a ripple effect on truckers’ schedules and deliveries. Staying agile and having contingency plans in place are key strategies for managing these disruptions.
- Detention and Delays: Time Lost, Money Lost
- Time is money in the trucking industry, and delays at customer facilities can eat into productivity and earnings. Tools like the DAT Load Board help truckers find efficient routes and minimize wait times, but the challenge of detention and delays remains a constant concern.
- Equipment Maintenance: Keeping the Wheels Turning Smoothly
- Trucks are the lifeline of the industry, and keeping them in top condition is paramount. Regular maintenance, quality parts from suppliers like NAPA Auto Parts, and proactive servicing help prevent breakdowns and ensure safety on the road.
- Fuel Challenges: Riding the Wave of Price Fluctuations
- Fuel costs can be a rollercoaster ride, impacting operating costs and profitability. Apps like GasBuddy provide real-time fuel prices along routes, helping truckers make informed decisions and save on fuel expenses. The constant hiking of Canadian fuel prices has added further pressure to an already complete situation. The recent price increase too to carbon tax here in Ontario has raised diesel prices an additional 4 cents per litre, and if the current government is not removed, it will continue to increase until 2030. One can only imagine what additional problems this could create.
- Health and Well-being: Taking Care of the Driver
- Truckers face unique health challenges, from sleep apnea to even more life-threatening health issues from long hours behind the wheel. Organizations like the Truckers Relief Fund offer support, resources, and advocacy for driver health and wellness initiatives. We at Dynamic encourage our drivers to make their health a priority. Simple daily habits over time contribute to your overall health. Simple things like walking 30 min a day, avoiding excess sugary foods, prioritizing healthy meals, and getting enough quality sleep each can greatly reduce and potential negative health effects associated with prolonged life on the road. When I was on the road, I made sure to get one hour of walking in each day, drank a gallon of water, and ate as healthy as possible most of the time. I say MOST of the time because hey… there are some fine dirty ol’ burgers on the road that I couldn’t say no to from time to time, lol.
- Regulatory Complexities: Navigating the Rulebook
- From hours-of-service regulations to electronic logging device (ELD) mandates, the regulatory landscape can be a maze. Staying compliant and up-to-date with regulations is crucial for truckers’ safety and legal compliance. Resources from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provide guidance and education on regulatory matters.
These challenges paint a picture of the dynamic and demanding nature of the trucking industry. By addressing these issues collectively, leveraging technology and resources, and advocating for the well-being of truckers, the industry can continue to thrive and evolve in 2024 and beyond.
