The Changing Trucking Industry

The trucking industry is one that has faced some challenges recently. In addition to the fact that there are fewer companies offering trucking as a service, gas prices are also at an all-time high. As a result, truckers have had their pay reduced by many employers in the trucking and delivery industry. However, this is only one of the problems facing the trucking industry. In fact, one of the greatest challenges is the retention of truck drivers because of the poor economy.

Truckers are generally considered to be part-time workers, which often translates into low wages and no benefits. This can make it difficult for truckers to acquire the skills and education they need to secure another job, especially if they have been laid off from their current jobs. However, there are a number of things truckers can do to improve their chances of finding gainful employment.

One step that truckers can take is to train for a higher level of trucking licensing so that they may increase their chances of landing a better-paying position. Truck drivers must be licensed in order to provide commercial transportation insurance to their clients. Truckers’ licenses may even be required in some instances where a company will require drivers to haul their own freight.

Many truckers choose to drive larger vehicles, such as 18-wheelers and flatbeds because these larger trucks enable them to travel further than smaller vehicles. However, some companies may also prefer to hire truck drivers who drive compact vehicles. Truckers may even be able to increase their starting salaries with specialized training.

Truckers also should not let their financial situation decide which route they should take in their careers. Truck drivers have a number of options to consider before settling on a career. Many truckers begin by driving single-passenger vans, but many also find steady employment as extra drivers for major trucking companies. Extra driving jobs usually require truckers to complete specialized classes in their areas of expertise, such as how to drive large rigs or how to operate a forklift with ease.

Trucking employers are always willing to offer a diverse range of job opportunities for truckers to select from. Jobs in the trucking industry may include being an office driver, a warehouse trucker, or a driver for a construction crew. Drivers can also choose to become delivery truckers and operate with just one truck. There are also truck drivers who only operate semi-trucks, or who are available to pick up and deliver cargo, depending on their assignment.

The current economic conditions have caused a dramatic decrease in the price of fuel. In addition, the increased use of technology in the trucking industry has allowed truckers to reduce their daily driving times. Many truckers choose to drive fewer miles each day so that they can make more money. However, truckers also need to remember that the longer they drive, the more damage their vehicles incur. Mechanics and other professionals in the trucking industry recommend that truckers double-check their oil, spark plugs, tires, fluids, and washable oil filters before leaving the lot. These preventative maintenance procedures will prevent unnecessary costs in the long run.

Truckers often go through difficult financial times because of the rising cost of fuel and other necessities. To help combat this, many trucking companies offer financial assistance programs to their drivers. Truckers may be able to receive up to 15 percent of their monthly wages in additional income. Because of the trucking industry’s low unemployment rate, many truckers have found employment in the field after previously having been laid off.