Trucking

Autonomous vehicle tech has advanced quite a bit, but we're nowhere close to replacing truck drivers with AI yet ― and we probably don't want to.

Many independent drivers are starting to see lower rates and increased fuel costs, says Lewie Pugh, executive vice president of the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association.

Goods sitting idle in warehouses or containers will head to the U.S., though many companies have adapted to shortages.

Fewer goods coming from China during its lockdown and more trucking companies have helped.

Some in the trucking industry say the mandate may exacerbate its current worker shortage.

Parking and pay are among the biggest frustrations of truck drivers.

Some containers have been sitting in storage for years. Experts say the problem has more to do with moving them to the right places than increasing the number in circulation.

“COVID has shown Americans the importance of the trucking profession,” said Darrel Harris, president of Yellow Corp.

Drivers are retiring, while the pandemic and new drug-test data sharing are keeping many from joining the ranks.

Trucking volume offers a glimpse into consumer demand today, and what that demand might look like down the road.