(As seen in The Business Journals)

TeamOne Logistics shares the top four challenges facing the trucking industry:

1. Driver shortage. Trucking veterans are now retiring which leaves a vacancy for new drivers. However, there are a variety of factors that could steer away potential newcomers to the trucking industry, including difficulty obtaining CDL licenses, extensive time away from home, lengthy work shifts, etc.

2. Fuel costs. Despite the fact that prices are currently cheaper than in previous months, fuel costs are always fluctuating. Considering trucks primarily run on gas, the cost and accessibility of fuel weighs heavily on trucking companies. Gas prices impact how to charge a client as well as how far you can travel on a set budget.

3. Infrastructure. With the quality of many of America’s highways, tunnels, and bridges steadily declining, this means construction is on the rise. Road blocks and construction or speed zones may greatly affect travel times and hinder trucker’s driving abilities.

4. Regulations. There are various regulations that business owners must comply with in order to avoid receiving penalties or fees. In addition to the most recent ELD mandate, truckers must also follow strict regulations in regard to their driving schedule, break time limits, licensing, and more.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to combat these issues. Always be sure to immediately comply with new regulations, stay updated on current industry information, consistently perform research on what products or services are available to help you improve your company efforts, or even hire a professional company who will serve as a workforce partner and provide you with business solutions.