Changes driving the trucking industry in the last 25 years
As we celebrate 25 years in business, we reflect on how the trucking industry has changed over the years. From our perspective, the past 25 years of trucking have been quite tumultuous, with many impactful occurrences that have driven much change and significantly shifted industry dynamics.
Driver shortages
The continued driver shortage tsunami is the most notable change the trucking industry has seen in the last 25 years. All this, only to be exacerbated by an aging driver population, increased industry regulations, and an overall frowning on the driving profession.
Persistent driver shortages have led to higher wages, increased recruitment efforts, and an epidemic of “empty seats”. On the flip side of this issue, a growing focus on diversity and inclusion has led to a much needed and timely increase of women and minority drivers.
Technological advancements
With the enhanced focus on, and enforcement of, more rigorous safety & emissions standards, we have seen a deluge of technological advancements in the trucking industry.
The adoption of on-board telematics & GPS has become industry standard producing results that help ensure safety & efficiency including:
- Real-time tracking of trucks
- Improved route planning
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Enhanced safety & security
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), mandated in 2017, have replaced paper logs for recording drivers’ Hours of Service (HOS), which helps to greatly increase compliance and safety.
Emissions standards
Stricter emissions standards have been implemented, driving the adoption of cleaner engine technologies along with alternative fuels like natural gas (LNG/CNG), electricity, and hydrogen.
There continues to be a concerted push toward the use of electric trucks and the next 25 years will determine its success through continued advancement in battery technology and the infrastructure expansion required to support the widespread use of electric vehicles.
Self-driving trucks
And finally, the” moonshot” has and continues to be the advent of autonomous trucks. Development and testing of self-driving trucks with limited deployment but significant potential for the future.
There is no doubt that the changes we have seen and experienced in the last 25 years have made the truck driving industry safer & more efficient, and we look forward with anticipation of the changes yet to come.