Quiet Highways? The sound of engines roaring down the highway has undoubtedly become quieter the past couple years. But, if you look at the data, you can see the industry is revving its engine! After years of facing shortages and feeling the strain on supply chains, it looks like the transportation industry is back on track. As the shortage of truck drivers decreases and more pros hit the road, the demand for freight has taken a long-overdue sigh of relief. Could 2023 be the year we see the roads bustling with life again? Workforce Constraints Remain a Concern Although the shortage of truck drivers across the country appeared to ease slightly last year, it’s still a major worry for the transportation industry in 2023. This was emphasized by a group of top industry experts at the recent Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association (IFCA) annual convention. According to Kirby Wagner of GROWMARK, the workforce shortage is the number one problem the transportation sector is facing right now. Existing shortages have exasperated issues and has resulted in a lot of retirements and many drivers feeling overworked. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) estimates that in 2022, the US was in need of around 78,000 drivers. While still a large amount, this is a noticeable drop from the shortage of 80,000 back in 2021. Regardless of the shortage showing slight signs of letting up, the shortage continues to be a cause for concern and definitely stands as something that everyone should be paying attention to. Expanding the Pool of Drivers The most significant challenge for the industry right now is in expanding the pool of drivers and employees. GROWMARK, a leading wholesaler within the agricultural industry, is actively working towards resolving this issue by providing training and assistance to new truck drivers to help them navigate the complex regulatory landscape. In addition, the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association (IFCA) is exploring new ways to increase the number of drivers in the agriculture industry by proposing an extension of restricted Class B licenses. Struggles Across Transport The trucking industry isn’t the only one feeling the squeeze when it comes to a shortage of workers. The railroad industry is also in the same boat, as BNSF Railway’s representative, Peter Skosey, recently shared. The company is facing a stressed workforce, leading to efficiency concerns in recent times. But BNSF didn’t sit idly by, they took action by negotiating a tough but rewarding round of labor talks, resulting in a whopping 24% pay raise for their hardworking employees. While BNSF may not offer paid sick leave, they make up for it by offering time off, with the average worker receiving a generous 27 to 33 days off each year. And if an employee needs even more time off, they have the option of long-term sick leave. These efforts demonstrate the determination of the transportation industry to overcome the workforce shortages and ensure their employees are well taken care of. The positive changes made by BNSF serve as a shining example for what things are bound to follow as the industry is urged to correct these longstanding issues. Investing in Infrastructure At BNSF, they’re not just talking the talk, they’re walking the walk – with over $3 billion invested annually in maintaining their network, they’re determined to reduce service disruptions and keep things running smoothly. Peter Skosey, a representative from BNSF, notes the company’s focus on efficiency and the luxury of investing in infrastructure to make it happen. As for the transportation sector as a whole, while the shortage of truck drivers has improved, it’s still a pressing issue. Companies are stepping up their game with training programs, regulatory support, and even expanded licenses to bring in more drivers. And the railroad industry? They’re in the same boat, with a stretched workforce, but are showing their determination with investments in technology and infrastructure to boost efficiency. Thank you for taking time our of your day to check out this article! At Optimum Logistics, we have been at the forefront of staffing logistic positions since 1976. If you’re looking for a career in commercial driving, hold a CDL A or B, or are seeking a warehouse position, look no further. We have you covered! Feel free to reach out to us for any of your employment & staffing needs. Stay safe and drive on! – The Optimum Logistics Team
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