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No Image May 05 2023 in Trucking

Sustainable Trucking Trends 2023: What You Need to Know

As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, the transportation industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. In particular, the trucking industry, which is responsible for moving goods across the country, has been identified as the top contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the US.   

However, the good news is that sustainable trucking is no longer just a pipe dream. Thanks to technological advancement, several sustainable trucking trends that are gaining momentum in 2023. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these trends and what they mean for the trucking industry.  

Introduction to Sustainable Trucking  

Sustainable trucking refers to the use of environmentally friendly practices and technologies to reduce carbon footprint, waste, and fossil fuel consumption.   

Since the trucking industry is the single largest contributor to CO2 emissions in the US, with diesel engines contributing to air pollution and carbon emissions, the sector is experiencing increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of climate change.  

Sustainable Trucking Market Trends: Key Statistics  

  • The transportation sector contributes to about a third of US greenhouse gas emissions.  
  • The trucking industry consumes around 54.3 billion gallons of diesel fuel annually.  
  • In 2021, CO2 emissions from US transportation totaled 1.7 billion metric tons.  
  • Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US.  

Sustainable Trucking Industry Drivers  

The top three reasons behind sustainable trucking include:  

  • Rising fuel prices  
  • Government regulations  
  • Increased pressure to reduce carbon emissions from both public and private sectors   

In March 2022, Convoy surveyed 700 small- and mid-sized trucking companies across the US to get a snapshot of sustainability in trucking. The survey participants included dispatchers, drivers, and owner-operators. Research showed that respondents reported feeling pressure to reduce carbon emissions rose from 35% to 38% between 2021 and 2022.   

With the addition of rising fuel prices and government regulations, the pressure and need to reduce waste and achieve carbon neutrality is at an all-time high and will only increase in the coming years.  

5 Sustainable Trucking Trends of 2023  

Reduce Empty Miles  

Inefficient truck routing contributes to wasted fuel consumption. Convoy research shows that up to 35% of truck miles may be empty, with regional driving distances (100-400 miles) representing the largest percentage of loads that are driven empty.   

Reducing 1% of empty miles from one long-haul truck can save over 100 gallons of fuel. Trucking companies that optimize freight logistics can save fuel, time and enhance productivity, generating cost savings and additional revenue.   

Alternative Fuels  

One main way trucking companies address sustainability is by adopting alternative fuel vehicles to reduce emissions. 94% of the fuel used for transportation is petroleum-based. Electric, hybrid, and natural gas-powered trucks are rising in popularity as carriers look to transform into green trucking companies.   

As long as the trucking and transportation industries are reliant on fossil fuels, some emissions cannot be avoided. However, introducing electric vehicles and alternative fuels can decrease emissions and help companies make their operations more sustainable.  

This can include everything from biofuels to hydrogen fuel cells. While these fuels are still in the early stages of development, they have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of the trucking industry significantly.  

Electric Trucks  

One of the most significant sustainable trucking trends in 2023 is the rise of electric trucks. Electric trucks are powered by batteries, meaning they don’t produce any emissions during operation. This makes them attractive for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint if they have enough capital to invest in a new fleet.  

Several major manufacturers, including Tesla and Daimler, are currently developing electric trucks, and it’s expected that the market for these vehicles will continue to grow in the coming years.  

Efficient Routing  

In addition to adopting alternative fuels and vehicle technologies, some trucking companies have begun using route optimization software to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Companies can reduce idle time and empty miles by optimizing schedules, traveling during off-peak times, and avoiding routes with heavy traffic congestion.  

Improved Aerodynamics  

Finally, improved aerodynamics is another sustainable trucking trend that’s gaining momentum in 2023. Aerodynamics contribute up to 50% of fuel economy per mile at highway speeds.  

By reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency, trucking companies can save on diesel costs, which translates to lower overall emissions. This can include everything from using streamlined trailers to implementing advanced technologies like platooning.  

Sustainable Trucking Challenges  

While major steps have been taken to reduce carbon emissions from trucking companies. Some significant barriers include: 

  • High initial investment in new trucking technologies prevents greater adoption for companies with fewer resources  
  • Ongoing truck driver shortage compounds issues of efficiency and route optimization  
  • Market availability of electric vehicles will likely outpace the building of charging infrastructure  

Trucking companies will need to balance the ecological concerns of truck driving with the need to remain competitive and profitable. On the other hand, as the push for sustainability generates more momentum across all industries, green trucking companies can gain greater market share and be more appealing to potential customers.   

Key Takeaways 

In conclusion, sustainable trucking is no longer a distant dream. Thanks to technological advances, plans to reduce carbon emissions, and diesel fuel reliance, the sector’s carbon emission is set to reduce dramatically in the coming years.   

From electric trucks to improved aerodynamics, these trends have the potential to massively reduce the carbon footprint of the trucking industry. As we look toward the future, it’s clear that sustainability will be a key factor in the success of the trucking industry.  

How Will Sustainable Trucking Affect Professional Truck Drivers?  

As the trucking landscape evolves, it’s becoming increasingly important to cultivate a workforce of experienced, professional truck drivers to take the helm.  

Professional truckers are the backbone of our economy, and trucking companies must prioritize their needs as they work to make their operations more sustainable. At Warrior Logistics, people are our first priority. Our strategic and ongoing expansion means we stay on the cutting edge of technologies to ensure our Truck Warriors have everything they need to be successful on and off the road.  

Move your truck driving career forward with one of the nation’s largest transportation companies – apply today! 

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No Image April 26 2023 in Trucking

Women in Trucking: Challenges & Opportunities in a Male-Dominated Industry 

The trucking industry is a vital part of the global economy, with billions of goods transported by trucks annually. Despite this importance, the industry has struggled with a severe shortage of truck drivers in recent years. This shortage is expected to worsen as many current drivers near retirement age. To address this shortfall, many trucking companies have begun actively recruiting women to join their ranks.  

However, the trucking industry is also notorious for its male-dominated culture and can be a challenging environment for women to navigate. In this article, we’ll explore the unique challenges and opportunities women truck drivers face and how they overcome them.  

The Trucking Industry and Gender  

Trucking has traditionally been uniformly men, with women making up less than 10% of all truck drivers in the United States. This gender disparity is reflected in other transportation-related professions, such as mechanics, dispatchers, and logistics managers. Women who work in the industry often report feeling isolated and unsupported, and many face harassment or discrimination on the job.  

However, the tides of society and culture are shifting, making a splash in the trucking industry. Women are entering the field in droves and have reached a record high since the Bureau of Labor and Statistics began reporting these demographics in 1990.  

Key Statistics: Women in Trucking  

  • The US transportation industry was worth $1.36 trillion as of 2022, with 10.68 million Americans employed in transportation and warehouse positions.  
  • The trucking industry generates an estimated $700 billion in annual revenue.  
  • Demand for trucking has increased by 30% over the past 5 years with the growth of eCommerce and the need for efficient and reliable logistics services.  
  • As of October 2022, the share of women across the trucking industry reached nearly 18%, with the number of women holding 1.6 million jobs within the sector.  
  • The percentage of female truck drivers is 8%.  

Challenges of Driving Jobs for Women 

Women in trucking face a range of unique challenges, many of which are related to the industry’s male-dominated culture. Some of the most common challenges include:  

Stereotypes and Bias  

Women in trucking often face stereotyping and bias from both coworkers and customers. Many people assume that women are not as capable of driving trucks or performing other transportation-related tasks as men, which can lead to dismissiveness or lack of respect.  

Physical Demands  

Trucking is a physically demanding job that requires long hours of sitting, heavy lifting, and exposure to extreme weather conditions. Women may face additional challenges due to their typically smaller size and strength, making it more difficult to perform certain tasks.  

Safety Concerns  

Safety is always a concern in the trucking industry, and women may feel more vulnerable due to their gender. Some women report feeling unsafe when stopping at truck stops or rest areas, while others have experienced harassment or assault on the job.  

Gender Pay Gap  

While industries worldwide are making strides to even out this highly debated and hot-button issue, it is estimated that women drivers and sales employees made 78 cents to the dollar men earned in 2021. This inequality is a significant factor preventing women from considering a truck driving career or staying in it.  

Opportunities for Women in Trucking  

Despite the clear challenges and obstacles women face in a male dominated trucking industry, women in trucking also have many opportunities to succeed. Some of these include  

High Demand for Professional Truck Drivers  

As mentioned previously, the trucking industry faces a severe driver shortage. This shortage has created a high demand for qualified truckers, and women are well-positioned to fill this gap. Many companies have also implemented various strategies to recruit and retain truck drivers by offering higher pay and competitive benefits packages.  

Additionally, trucking companies are actively recruiting women to achieve diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In recent years, women-owned and operated trucking companies have also emerged, creating new opportunities to succeed.  

Trucker Pay and Benefits  

Truck driving can be a lucrative career, with many drivers earning a good living wage. While women have historically been paid less than their counterparts, many for-hire trucking companies offer equal pay and comprehensive benefits. 

Advancement Opportunities  

The trucking sector is enormous and offers many opportunities for career advancement, with drivers able to move up to supervisory or management positions over time. Women interested in pursuing leadership roles in trucking and transportation can take advantage of these opportunities to advance their careers.  

Strategies for Success in Trucking  

To succeed in the trucking industry, women drivers must be prepared to address and overcome these challenges. Here are some strategies that can help:  

Education and Training  

Truck driving is demanding, and getting the right education and training is essential. Women drivers can look for training programs that will prepare them for the job and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.  

Building a Support Network  

Having a support network can be critical for women drivers, who may feel isolated or unsupported on the job. Women can seek other female drivers or transportation professionals who can offer advice and support.  

Advocating for Yourself  

Women drivers should not be afraid to speak up and advocate for themselves. This means setting clear boundaries and expectations with coworkers and customers and standing up for themselves if they experience harassment or discrimination. Your trucking company should also provide outreach and support to help female truck drivers navigate and overcome these challenges. 

Conclusion  

Despite the uphill battle, women are making great strides in breaking down barriers and succeeding in this male-dominated industry. By taking advantage of their opportunities and developing strategies for success, anyone can be a professional truck driver and build fulfilling and rewarding careers in this rapidly growing and dynamic field.  

Warrior Logistics  

One company that is actively breaking down these barriers is Warrior Logistics. As a veteran and women-owned business, we believe people are our greatest assets and create a superior environment for them to thrive. Integrity is at the core of how we operate. We hold ourselves to the highest degree of professionalism, respect, and integrity towards our customers and each other – period.  

If you’re looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career as a professional truck driver, apply today and move your career forward with one of the nation’s largest transportation companies! 

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No Image April 07 2023 in Trucking

Understanding the Trucking Industry in 2023: Key Statistics & Trends You Need to Know 

The trucking industry is vital to the global economy, transporting goods across vast distances and keeping the wheels of commerce turning. As we enter the second half of 2023, it’s crucial to understand the latest trends and statistics shaping the industry. From economic impact and contributions to the American workforce to the ongoing driver shortage and rising fuel prices, there are a variety of factors affecting the trucking industry today.  

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key trucking industry statistics in 2023 and explore the trends shaping this critical sector’s future. Whether you’re a trucking industry insider or simply interested in learning more about this critical industry, read on to discover the insights you need to know.  

Key Trucking Industry Statistics 2023  

  • The US trucking industry generates over $700 billion in annual revenue  
  • There are approximately 3.5 million truck drivers employed in the US  
  • 72% of professional truck drivers are white  
  • Most truck drivers are between the ages of 45 to 54  

Economic Impact of the Trucking Industry: Contributions to Jobs and GDP  

The trucking industry is enormous, with millions of professional truck drivers and vehicles transporting goods across the country daily.   

The trucking industry is expected to grow despite the threat of recession as demand for freight transportation services increases. In 2023, an estimated 3.5 million truck drivers are employed in the US alone. These drivers operate over 4 million trucks, moving an incredible 10.5 billion tons of freight each year.  

The trucking industry has a massive impact on the economy, contributing over $700 billion in annual revenue to the GDP, with the local freight trucking industry valued at $91.7 billion in 2023. This impact is felt in almost every sector of our economy, from agriculture and manufacturing to retail and eCommerce.  

Truck Driving Job Statistics  

As of 2023, there are roughly 1.2 million for-hire trucking companies operating in the US. Long-distance freight businesses account for approximately 570,921, increasing at an annual rate of 4.5% between 2018 to 2023.  

Professional Truck Driver Statistics by Gender  

According to a 2022 report by the American Trucking Associations, only 8% of all professional truck drivers are women. 

The overwhelming discrepancies between truck driver demographics may be due to a lack of infrastructure, gender pay gap inequalities, trucking lifestyle requirements, and other factors hindering the accessibility of truck driving jobs for new drivers.  

Truck Driver Statistics by Race and Ethnicity  

A trucking industry report by Zippia states that most professional truck drivers in America are white, accounting for roughly 72% of the workforce.   

  • 12% are Black or African American   
  • 8% are Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish  
  • 5% account for other races and ethnic demographics  

Professional Truck Driver Statistic by Age  

The same Zippia report found that the average age of professional truck drivers is between 45 to 54, with 26% of the overall demographic. This statistic is followed closely by drivers between the ages of 35 to 44 and 55 to 64, each accounting for 21%. 

Truck Driver Pay Statistics  

The average truck driver salary in the US is $62,548 annually, with entry-level positions starting at $48,750 and experienced truck drivers making an average salary of $88,392.  

With the growing truck driver shortage set to increase, logistics companies are beginning to increase pay and offer better benefits packages to attract and retain truck drivers.   

Environmental Impact of the US trucking industry  

The trucking industry takes a significant toll on the environment, with emissions from diesel engines contributing to air pollution and climate change.  

The trucking industry consumes around 54.3 billion gallons of diesel fuel annually. Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US, and CO2 emissions represent roughly 97% of the global warming potential of all greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.  

In 2021, CO2 emissions from transportation in the US totaled 1.7 billion metric tons, the most from any sector of the economy.  

In 2023, the industry will continue to focus on reducing its environmental impact, with increasing adoption of alternative fuels and technologies such as electric and hybrid vehicles. Companies will need to balance ecological concerns with the need to remain competitive and profitable.  

Trucking Industry Trends to Watch in 2023  

The trucking industry has faced multiple challenges recently, including rising fuel prices, increasing insurance claims, and driver shortages. The prevalence of these issues will continue to affect the industry’s future.  

Insurance Premiums  

The American Transportation Research Institute’s report found that insurance premiums cost per mile increased by 47% between 2010 and 2023. This accounts for covering rising payout and litigation costs, forcing transportation companies of all sizes to face financial uncertainty.  

The threat of theft, increasing costs of commodities, labor and repairs, medical treatment, and litigation fees will likely affect insurance premiums.  

Truck Driver Shortages  

The ATA estimates that the truck driver shortage will decrease by 20%, dropping from 78,000 drivers in 2022 to 64,000 drivers in 2023. While this may seem like a positive step in the right direction, the shortage of truck drivers this year is expected to hinder the industry’s growth as the demand for goods increases and the aging workforce starts to retire.  

According to various reports, consumer and freight demand will increase again after the recession, projecting a shortage of 82,000 truck drivers in 2024 and 160,000 drivers in by 2028  

Rising Fuel Prices  

With fuel costs skyrocketing, oil is expected to reach $92.36 per barrel, a near $20 increase from the prices of 2021.   

Gas prices may reach a high of $3.51/gallon, which is $0.41 lower than in 2022. However, prices are likely to increase, affecting logistics operations across the nation.  

The State of the Trucking in 2023  

The logistics and transportation industry are a vital component of our economy, and understanding the latest trends and statistics is essential for companies and individuals operating in this space. In 2023, the industry is expected to face new challenges and opportunities driven by technology, regulation, and changing customer demands. By staying current on these trends, companies can position themselves for success in the years ahead.  

Join Warrior Logistics  

Warrior Logistics is the leading linehaul freight contractor powering one of the world’s largest shipping companies, FedEx Ground. Our strategic and ongoing expansion means we operate across the US with over 100 trucks and 150+ team members driving over 12 million miles annually. What sets us apart is our commitment to our Truck Warriors. We’re on a mission of servant leadership that puts people at the heart of everything we do.   

If you’re looking for a lucrative, stable, and rewarding career as a professional truck driver, consider joining the Warrior Logistics family and apply today! 

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No Image March 22 2023 in Trucking, Truck Driving

Types of Truck Driver Pay in Texas: Hourly vs Per Mile 

If you’re a Texas truck driver looking to understand the industry’s different types of pay structures, this blog is for you. Compensation is a critical issue for truck drivers, both entry-level and professional. After all, truck drivers are the backbone of the American economy, and it can be a demanding job, so it’s important to be compensated fairly for your time and effort.   

In this post, we’ll examine the two most common pay structures in trucking: hourly pay vs per mile pay. This way, you can better understand what to expect when choosing the logistics company to drive for and make an informed decision about which compensation method works best for you. Let’s get started!  

How Much Do Truck Drivers Get Paid in Texas?  

According to Truckers Report, CDL truck driver in Texas can make anywhere from $62,530 to $104,000 depending on where they’re driving and how much time they spend on the road. While the national median for commercial truck driving averages $81,626, it doesn’t mean all trucking jobs are compensated equally. It’s important to look for a trucking company that offers competitive pay, bonuses, and opportunities that allow you to grow your career and your bank account.  

What Are the Different Types of Truck Driver Pay?  

Here are the two most common ways truck drivers get paid when working for a commercial trucking company.   

Per Hour Pay   

Hourly pay is a pay structure where truck drivers are compensated for the hours they spend on the road each week. This pay is typically calculated based on a dollar amount per hour worked. Hourly pay is common for intrastate logistics companies that operate within smaller ranges.   

As an hourly driver, you can expect to make frequent stops, load and unload cargo, and interact with customers regularly. One of the benefits of hourly pay is the ability to work overtime if the company allows it.  

Per Mile Pay 

Per mile pay is the trucking industry most common type of compensation. In this pay structure, truck drivers are paid a certain amount for each mile they drive. So, if you’re a truck driver who’s paid per mile, you can expect to drive a certain number of miles per week.   

Typically, you’ll be paid a cent per mile (CPM) and have an average number of miles you’ll be expected to drive per week. You can calculate your paycheck by multiplying the CPM by the miles you’ve racked up. For example, if your CPM is $0.50, with an average of 3,000 miles per week, you can expect $1,500 that week.  

It’s important to remember that while a higher pay rate per mile may seem like it would result in a bigger paycheck, the number of miles you drive ultimately determines how much you’ll earn. Therefore, it’s important to consider factors such as the amount of driving required and any potential bonuses or incentives when evaluating the overall compensation package offered by a trucking company.  

Pay Per Mile vs Pay Per Hour: Which Is Better?  

Truck drivers who get paid by the hour are usually restricted to regional or local routes. Since you spend less time on the road as a local truck driver, you typically earn less than those paid per mile unless you’re putting in overtime.   

Truckers who get paid per mile are usually OTR drivers that drive across the country, either solo or with a team. OTR or long-haul truck drivers spend more time on the road, but the ability to rack up thousands of miles offers the chance to earn more and qualify for mileage bonuses and rewards.  

In general, Texas truck drivers who get paid per mile tend to earn more than hourly drivers. The ability to make more money per year as a mile driver allows them to gain the experience and skills needed to grow their professional truck driving careers.  

How to Make More Money as a Professional Trucker in Texas  

While these two types of pay structures can help you better understand the differences in truck driver base pay, there are other factors to consider when it comes to how much you can earn as a professional truck driver like  

  • The logistics company you work for  
  • How much experience you have  
  • Where you’re located and where you’ll be driving  
  • Certifications, skills, and endorsements  

Drive with Warrior Logistics 

Warrior Logistics is a rapidly growing, veteran-owned, independent contractor providing linehaul freight services for FedEx Ground. Our Truck Warrior enjoy pay-per-mile compensation, comprehensive benefits, flexible work schedules, and more. On top of our pay structure, we offer cumulative cash rewards for safe driving miles, our Warrior fuel program, and 24/7 support to maximize your miles.   

We believe people are our greatest assets and we provide a superior environment for them to thrive. If you’re looking to grow your professional truck driving career with one of the nation’s largest logistics companies, apply today! 

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