New Pilot Program for Vets Under 21 May Help Reduce the Truck Driver Shortage

The need for truck drivers continues to increase and is at its worst level the U.S. has ever experienced. The growing popularity of online purchases has increased the need to transport product across the U.S. on trucks. While there is an increased demand in the trucking industry, there is a huge need for qualified drivers to deliver these goods on time.

A recent article in Forbes magazine states that the U.S. has experienced an ongoing demand for truck drivers as many seasoned drivers are retiring and there aren't enough new recruits to fill the empty jobs.

Washington Post  writer Heather Long stated that due to the shortage of truck drivers, many transportation companies are increasing pay, offering bonuses and other incentives to make the industry more attractive. The median pay for drivers is around $59,000 with private fleet drivers making about $86,000 per year.

A new pilot program that was launched in July would enable 18 to 20-year-old vets to become truckers. This is a win/win for all involved as it would help resolve the driver shortage while opening up the job market for younger military veterans.

DOT Pilot Program for Military Vets Under 21

Currently, no one under 21 can drive a big rig for interstate commerce. A federal review in 1975 found that young drivers didn’t have the “maturity, skill and judgment required to handle a commercial motor vehicle."

Due in part to the severe lack of truck drivers, the DOT is taking another look at the program to see if this information still stands. In the test program, 18 to 20-year old military vets and reservists with the equivalent of a commercial license will be hired and monitored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Their records would be compared to a control group to see how they compare.

Both the FMCSA and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators reviewed the military heavy vehicle training program. They found that the military program meets or exceeds the civilian CDL standards.

According to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, if the report shows that military vets and reservists have shown to be responsible drivers, it could turn into well-paying jobs for younger military vets, while helping to reduce the number of drivers needed. With over 51,000 open jobs to fill, this may great for vets, truck company owners, and businesses.

Top Retailers Increasing the Need

The American Trucking Association (ATA) moved “more than 70% of all U.S. freight resulting in $719 billion in revenue.” Long-haul drivers, which are currently numbered at around 500,000, is one of the biggest categories looking for drivers.

One of the main shortages is caused by companies like Amazon and Walmart that are increasing their online ordering—and deliveries. Amazon, in particular, offers 24-hour delivery, increasing the need for drivers to meet those parameters.

Statistics show that around 51,000 more drivers are required to reduce the current shortage, which is due, in part, to the millions of people now ordering online with personalized delivery. The shortage of drivers has caused delayed deliveries and higher prices.

Resources for Drivers

Previously, owner/operators and trucking company owners used load boards and brokers to keep their trailers full. Today there are other options.

One of the best resources for shippers and drivers is www.cargobot.io an innovative new web-based platform that enables shippers and carriers to work together directly without the middleman, helping you increase productivity and your bottom line.