Is There a Semi Truck Shortage?

The trucking industry is responsible for the transportation of a significant portion of the goods that move around the country. It is a vital component of our economy, and yet it is facing an ever-growing shortage of drivers.

The shortage has become so acute that many experts are asking the question, “Is there a semi truck shortage? “

The answer to this question depends on who you ask. Some experts point to data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA) which shows that there is indeed a driver shortage. According to their latest figures, there were over 60,000 fewer drivers in 2018 compared to 2017.

This shortfall has been exacerbated by an increase in demand for freight services. As more businesses outsource their transportation needs, they require more trucks and drivers to meet their needs. This has caused wages for truck drivers to rise, which has in turn made the profession less attractive to potential new drivers.

At the same time, some point out that while there may be a shortage of drivers overall, it does not necessarily mean there is a shortage of semi trucks themselves. After all, companies can always purchase new trucks if they need them.

Conclusion:
The answer to whether or not there is a semi truck shortage depends on who you ask and what data you look at. While some data points towards an overall driver shortage, others suggest that this may not necessarily translate into an actual lack of trucks available for hire. Ultimately, it appears that the industry faces both a driver and truck shortage – but more research needs to be done in order to determine how severe these shortages really are.

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Stephen Dunn