There are many factors that contribute to the shortage of truck drivers, including the aging of the population. The trucking industry relies heavily on delayed retirements. The average truck driver is now in his or her early 50s, but the industry can still recruit older drivers. Women are also a large untapped source of potential truck drivers.
According to the American Trucking Association, the average age of over-the-road drivers is now 46 years old, and the median age for new truck drivers is 35 years old. The aging population is reducing the number of truckers available to haul freight, and the trucking industry needs younger, more skilled and safer drivers to fill that void.
While there is no maximum age for commercial drivers, older individuals must still meet minimum requirements for the CDL. These requirements include passing a physical examination, passing a background check, and obtaining a clean driving record. Additionally, many experienced truckers find ways to travel and earn money while completing their duties.
What is the Average Age of Semi Truck Drivers?
There are a variety of reasons why the average age of a semi truck driver is higher than most people might think. One of the main reasons is that drivers must be at least 21 years old to cross state lines. However, the American Trucking Association has spent years lobbying the federal government to relax this rule. Their DRIVE-Safe Act is currently pending in Congress. The legislation would make it possible for 18-year-olds to drive trucks across state lines.
Age is a major issue in trucking and many drivers are approaching retirement age. The median age of over-the-road truck drivers is 57, making them older than the average U.S. worker. On the other hand, the average age of people in training to become truck drivers is 35. The trucking industry relies heavily on delayed retirements.
Another issue is health. Many truck drivers suffer from heart disease and lung cancer. One study found that nearly half of truck drivers have sleep apnea and are overweight. This can make them careless and increase their risk of accident and injury.
Why Do Truck Drivers Quit?
There are several reasons why truckers quit their jobs. Long hours and unfamiliar environments are two of the most common. Others quit for lack of money. Although pay for truckers has increased in recent years, it is still lower than most other careers. Another reason is a lack of work-life balance.
Driver burnout affects health, performance, and personal life. It is characterized by a feeling of exhaustion, inefficacy, and cynicism. Although employment opportunities for truck drivers are expected to increase six percent by 2030, drivers are not immune to physical and emotional problems. For this reason, health insurance is essential, as is a balanced diet. Regular breaks and adequate sleep are also important.
Truck drivers also need support, which is lacking in many companies. A positive work environment can increase employee satisfaction, increase retention, and decrease the likelihood of drivers quitting. Consider providing audio entertainment to truck drivers to keep them entertained on long journeys. Ensure that employers are flexible and willing to change policies to accommodate drivers’ needs.
at What Age Do Most Truck Drivers Retire?
Truck driving is an excellent choice for people who want to see the world while earning a good living. The physical demands of truck driving can be taxing on the body, so it is important to maintain physical fitness. Additionally, as a truck driver, you can see some of the country’s most beautiful sights while you’re still working. As a result, you can pad your retirement account while enjoying the scenery.
According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, the average truck driver earns $50,000 to $100,000 a year. Only about 12% of truckers earn more than $100,000 a year. Even so, many senior truckers are unable to retire due to lack of savings. About 64% of truckers do not have enough money to cover their retirement expenses. Furthermore, 13 percent of truck drivers rank retirement as their number one concern. And while more than half of American workers do not plan to retire at 65, nearly a quarter of truck drivers expect to work until 70.
Trucking companies need to find nearly 70,000 new truck drivers a year. In the next decade, the trucking industry is projected to experience a shortage of approximately 54% of drivers. In order to fill this gap, employers must seek out younger truck drivers. One of the best ways to do this is through social media. Hiring a social media marketing agency will help you get the attention of young truck drivers.
Is Truck Driving a Good Retirement Job?
Choosing a truck driving career is a great way to enjoy a second career while you are retired. The job is not as physically demanding as other occupations like working on factories or construction sites, but it does require a reasonable amount of physical stamina. It also provides a sense of accomplishment, which may make it a great choice for retired people.
The transportation industry is crucial to the American economy. It ensures that goods and services are delivered in a timely manner and with guaranteed quality. It also pays well, with many trucking companies offering retirement plans and life insurance. Many companies also offer other benefits, which may be of great interest to retirees.
Many benefits of a trucking job include prescription drug coverage, health insurance, dental coverage, vision coverage, and holiday pay. In addition, many truckers enjoy paid vacations and holiday pay. Travel is important to many retirees, and truck driving provides the opportunity to experience many different destinations. As an added bonus, many retirees can enjoy travels across the United States.
Why Do Truck Drivers Have Big Bellies?
Fat truck drivers aren’t uncommon. The stereotype of fat truckers is unfounded. Truckers are just like any other group of people; they have very limited time for health and wellness. Many drivers choose to sacrifice their health to support their families. By not eating out as often, they can reduce their food intake.
Long-haul truckers are particularly susceptible to obesity, which is linked to a variety of chronic diseases. Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. More than half of long-haul drivers are overweight, compared to just 19 percent of the population. Obesity also increases the risk of osteoarthritis, ischemic strokes, and hypertension, according to World Health Organization data.
Fortunately, some truck stops have health and wellness programs designed specifically for truckers. Pilot Flying J, for example, has over 600 travel center gyms. Truck drivers should pay attention to their diets and exercise routines. Studies have shown that truckers are more likely to suffer from hypertension than the general population. Additionally, truck drivers are at risk for diabetes, which is caused by an elevated blood glucose level.
What is the Hardest Part of Being a Truck Driver?
Being a truck driver is a rewarding job, but it can also be a challenging one. Long hours on the road with little rest can lead to stress. In addition to the physical demands, truck drivers must also navigate the various legal hurdles of the industry and keep their vehicles in good condition. Managing the stress of this job requires time management and flexibility.
Truck drivers must be prepared to be away from home for several weeks at a time. This can affect relationships with family and friends. Some trucking companies allow drivers to bring their spouse or children. However, the majority of truckers operate alone. Many truck drivers report that loneliness is their biggest mental health concern. According to one study, 30% of truckers reported being lonely was a major cause of stress.
The long hours and difficult maneuvering required to drive a truck can make it difficult for some people. A good way to get used to driving a truck is to practice on a road where there are few obstacles. Also, be sure to follow traffic signs closely. This will make you a safer driver.
Is 2022 a Good Year to Get into Trucking?
For truck drivers, 2022 may be a good year to enter the trucking industry. The industry is expected to experience a decline in vehicle production, due to labor shortages and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, transportation companies are struggling to keep up with the growing number of aging trucks. These challenges will force transportation companies to increase their budgets for vehicle maintenance. These increases could also spur drivers to return to larger fleets.
The trucking industry is facing headwinds due to high fuel prices and inflation. Prices of many products have increased, making it more expensive to purchase trucks and maintain trucks. These headwinds are expected to keep rates above prepandemic levels until 2022. Nonetheless, trucking stocks have been among the best performers this July. Trucking stocks like SAIA, ArcBest, and Werner Enterprises have gained more than 10% this month.
Trucking is also experiencing growth in e-commerce. According to some forecasts, 70 percent of all freight transport will be done by trucks in 2022. In contrast, the rail industry will see a decline in its share, reaching 14.6% in 2022. Furthermore, the intermodal market is expected to reach $30 billion in 2022, up from $11 billion in 2016. As the transportation industry continues to grow, companies must look to innovative solutions that will help them compete in the coming years.
Learn More Here:
3.) Best Trucks