Did you know that the American Trucking Association estimates a shortage of over 80,000 truck drivers in the US?
As our society continues to grow and change, the need for car hauler services is becoming more critical than ever. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind the driver shortage, the growing demand for car hauling services, and the factors that contribute to this issue.
Is There a Shortage of Drivers for Transportation?
Yes, there is a shortage of auto transport drivers in the transportation industry. Many car hauling companies are struggling to find enough drivers to meet the growing demand for their services.
This shortage of drivers is affecting not only car transport drivers but also other areas of the transportation industry. As a result, people are experiencing delays in shipping and increased costs, leading to what's known as a "shipping shortage."
Why is There a Shortage of Truck Drivers?
There are several reasons behind the shortage of auto transport drivers. Let's explore some of these reasons in detail.
Aging Workforce and Retirement
Many current drivers are nearing retirement age, and there aren't enough younger drivers to replace them. This creates a gap in the workforce, leading to a shortage of car transport drivers.
Low Retention Rates and High Turnover
The trucking industry often has low retention rates and high turnover. This means that many drivers leave the profession soon after starting. This makes it difficult for car hauling companies to maintain a stable workforce.
Lifestyle Challenges Associated with Trucking
Trucking is a demanding job that requires long hours and extended periods away from home. Difficult working conditions are often part of the package as well. These factors can make it less appealing to potential drivers, leading to a shortage of car transportation drivers.
Why Do We Need So Many Truck Drivers?
The demand for truck drivers, especially car transport drivers, is high for several reasons. Let’s explore some of them.
Expansion of E-Commerce and Online Car Sales
The growth of e-commerce and online car sales has led to an increased need for car transportation. People can now purchase cars from anywhere in the country (cross-country car shipping) and have them delivered to their doorstep.
This requires a car transporter to move the vehicle. Which, in turn, creates more demand for car hauling drivers and to ship a car to another state.
Infrastructural Development and Urbanization
With new roads and highways being built, more people are moving to urban areas. This increases the demand for car transportation services. Which, in turn, requires more car hauling drivers and movers to meet the growing need.
One type of car transporter that is particularly in demand is the enclosed car transporter. Enclosed car transporters are used to transport high-value or luxury cars.
They provide extra protection from the elements and potential damage during transit. These specialized services require skilled car transport drivers who know how to handle delicate vehicles. Customers can use a car shipping calculator to quickly calculate shipping costs.
What is Causing the Truck Driver Shortage?
Various factors contribute to the shortage of car transport drivers. Let's look at some of the main reasons.
Insufficient Training and Licensing Programs
Becoming an auto transportation driver requires proper training and licensing. Unfortunately, there may not be enough training programs available to help interested individuals become car transport drivers. This lack of training and licensing opportunities can make it difficult for people to enter the profession.
Stricter Regulations and Safety Requirements
In recent years, the transportation industry has seen an increase in regulations, safety requirements and required documents to ship a car. While these changes are important for keeping the roads safe, they can also make it more challenging for people to become drivers.
Stricter rules and regulations can discourage some individuals from pursuing a career in car hauling. For example, more documents like a Bill of Lading may be required.
Economic Factors and Wage Stagnation
Another factor contributing to the driver shortage is economic factors and wage stagnation. While the cost of living continues to rise, wages for car transport drivers have not kept pace.
This can make it difficult for drivers to earn a comfortable living and may lead some to seek other career opportunities. In the future, you may have to tip your auto transport driver to help subsidize wages.
Technological Advancements and Automation Fears
With advancements in technology, there is a growing concern that automation will eventually replace human drivers. This fear of being replaced by machines may discourage people from pursuing a career as a car transportation driver.
Is Car Hauling in Demand?
Car hauling is indeed in high demand. As mentioned earlier, there is a shortage of car transport drivers. Let's examine why car hauling is in demand and the specific areas that require these services.
Rising Demand for Specialized Car Hauler Services
The demand for specialized car hauling services is on the rise. This includes transporting luxury cars, classic cars, and other high-value vehicles.
These types of cars require extra care and attention during transport. This makes the role of the car transporter even more important. Enclosed car transporters are often used for these specialized services.
This is because they provide additional protection from the elements and potential damage. Often specialized car carrier insurance is needed for these new services.
Niche Markets and High-Value Vehicles
There are also niche markets that specifically require car hauling expertise. High-value vehicles need specialized transportation services. These can include luxury cars, exotic cars, and classic cars.
Car hauling companies that cater to these niche markets are currently in high demand. Will companies next consider growing hot shot car transport?
The Road to a Solution
The car hauler industry is facing a significant challenge due to the shortage of drivers. As the demand for auto transportation services continues to rise, it’s crucial to address the root causes of this shortage and find ways to attract new drivers to the profession.
Are you interested in starting a rewarding career as a car hauler driver? Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities available and take the first step towards an exciting new journey.
