In 2018, the trucking industry benefited in many ways from the flourishing U.S. economy. In 2019, according to an October 16, 2020 article in American Trucking Associations, “…trucks shipped 72.5% of all domestic tonnage…” The article continues on to state, “…trucks carried cargo across the Canadian, Mexico, and United States borders (accounting for) 3/4 of the value of trade..”
Moving into 2020, our economy started out strong with record low unemployment as well as booming business in the retail and construction. Then, March 2020 arrived along with COVID-19 resulting in lockdowns throughout the United States. Fortunately, trucking service is adaptable.
Truck drivers began to haul PPE instead of their usual loads. While restaurants and other service industries suffered, grocery stores saw record sales. Once again, trucks were kept busy with freight transport of paper goods, food, and other supplies. In fact, compared to February sales, “…grocery store sales were up 25% in March 2020..,” according to the article in American Trucking Associations mentioned above. E-commerce sales went up as well adding to the demand for trucking service.
By May and into June, consumers began to feel more optimistic with gains in the areas of retail, manufacturing, and construction. This led to more demand for freight transport.
As 2020 continues on, the demand for freight is still higher than demand for services. There have been positive changes in the processes of hiring and training truck drivers. The trucking industry is seeing a steady recovery as this unusual year rolls on.
