Trucking Jobs Wanted by Many: New Survey Suggests

Survey Shows Americans’ Interest in Trucking Jobs Amid Industry Debate

Many Americans Would Consider a Trucking Job

A recent survey by Findit Parts reveals that nearly 45% of Americans have thought about becoming a truck driver. Many see trucking jobs as a viable profession, especially if it offers competitive wages. Almost half of respondents said they would leave their current job for a trucking career if it paid more than what they earn now.

Despite this interest, the trucking industry struggles with driver retention. Some reports claim a shortage of drivers. However, others argue that the real problem is keeping experienced drivers due to low pay, long hours, and tough working conditions.

Pay Is a Major Factor in Career Choices

The Findit Parts survey shows that money plays a big role in career decisions. About 32% of respondents said they would consider trucking if it paid $100,000 or more per year.

However, making that much in trucking is not easy. Owner-operators can earn over $100,000, but they also have big expenses. Costs like fuel, maintenance, and insurance reduce their take-home pay. For company drivers, salaries vary. In Alaska, the average is about $65,000 per year. In West Virginia, it is around $48,000.

Many people feel truckers are underpaid. In fact, 62% of those surveyed believe truck drivers do not earn enough for their work.

Long Hours Keep Many From Choosing Trucking Jobs

Trucking offers financial opportunities. However, many are discouraged by the lifestyle. More than half of survey respondents said the biggest downside is spending too much time away from home.

Long-haul truckers can be on the road for weeks. This often means sleeping at truck stops instead of in their own beds.

Other concerns included safety and health risks. About 26% of respondents listed these as the biggest drawbacks. Fewer than 10% were worried about job security or negative views of the profession.

Many people would prefer local trucking jobs with standard hours. This suggests that better work-life balance could attract more drivers to the industry.

Is There a Truck Driver Shortage?

A major debate in the industry is whether there is a real shortage of truck drivers. Some reports claim there are not enough qualified drivers. However, many experts argue that the bigger issue is driver retention.

The Findit Parts survey supports this idea. While nearly half of Americans have thought about trucking, very few actually enter the industry.

Long hours, time away from home, and tough working conditions push many away. Instead of focusing only on hiring new drivers, improving conditions could help keep experienced drivers in the industry.

Public Perception of Trucking Jobs

Despite its challenges, most Americans still see trucking as a good career. According to the survey, 79% of respondents believe trucking is a solid job for young people.

Younger generations, however, are slightly less sure. Over 80% of Gen Xers and baby boomers think trucking is a strong career. But only about 70% of Gen Zers and millennials agree.

Automation could be one reason for this divide. Younger people are more aware of self-driving technology and its potential impact on trucking jobs. Still, the survey suggests that most Americans see trucking as a stable and essential industry.

Women and Generational Attitudes Toward Trucking

The survey also reveals differences in how men and women view trucking. About 53% of men have thought about a trucking career. While 35% of women have considered it.

Women make up only about 6% of truck drivers in the U.S. The survey suggests women are also 10% more likely than men to have a negative view of the profession.

Among different generations, Gen Xers have the most positive view of trucking. About 58% see it as a good job. In contrast, only 38% of Gen Zers agree.

This shift could be due to changing work preferences. Younger people often want jobs with more flexibility and a better work-life balance.

The Importance of Trucking in the Economy

Regardless of personal interest, most Americans agree that truck drivers are essential. The survey found that 85% of respondents believe truckers play a key role in the U.S. economy.

Gen Zers were slightly less likely to agree. About 75% said truck drivers are important. Among millennials, 80% shared this view. Still, the overall public recognizes the value of trucking.

Conclusion

The Findit Parts survey highlights both opportunities and challenges in trucking. Many Americans have considered the profession. However, long hours, time away from home, and concerns over pay make them hesitant.

The debate over driver shortages versus retention issues continues. Some argue that recruiting new drivers is the solution. Others believe improving job conditions is the key to keeping experienced drivers.

Better pay, benefits, and work-life balance could help retain drivers. As the industry evolves, addressing these concerns may be crucial for its future.