Is the US labor market for truck drivers broken?

Is the US labor market for truck drivers broken?

The section that follows displays the employment and earnings patterns of truck drivers relative to those of other blue-collar workers….Analyzing the labor market for truck drivers with the use of CPS data.

What is the work environment of a truck driver?

The work environment of a truck driver is usually confined to the vehicle they are driving, although at times, they may have to work in an office, factory, or warehouse setting. There are no defined hours for a truck driver, but most spend 40 or more hours a week to ensure timely delivery.

How many truck drivers are there in the United States?

3.5 million people
More than 3.5 million people work as truck drivers, an occupation dominated by men who hold more than 90% of truck driving jobs. Driving large tractor-trailers or delivery trucks is one of the largest occupations in the United States.

Is there really a driver shortage?

Last year, trucking companies in the United States suffered a record deficit of 80,000 drivers, according to the American Trucking Associations, a trade association. Given that trucks move 72 percent of American freight, a lack of drivers spells substantial disruption.

Why are truck drivers leaving industry?

There are many individuals with the training and skills needed to fill these truck driving job positions. But due to low pay and less than desirable working conditions, many are leaving the industry, in search of a better career.

Does UPS hire drivers off the street?

If you are a seasonal hire, you will be laid off. There is a ratio of 6 to 1 for outside hire. For every 6 people offered a full time job from the seniority ranks, there is 1 person hired straight from off the street. Yea they hire seasonal drivers and they also hire seasonal package handlers.

Are truck drivers in high demand?

Employment of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 231,100 openings for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Where do truck drivers sleep?

It tends to be a small room located behind the driver’s seat. Truckers usually park their vehicles in company facilities, rest areas, and truck stops along their route.

Are truck drivers in demand 2021?

American Trucking Associations estimates that the industry needs 80,000 more drivers. That figure is expected to worsen in the years ahead with a lack of new drivers to offset retirements and growing demand.