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!

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!

March 22 2023 in Trucking, Truck Driving

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

If you’re a Texas truck driver looking to understand the industry’s different types of truck driver salary structures in the texas, 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 Salary 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 Salary 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!

March 07 2023 in Trucking, Truck Driving

Best Types of Truck Driving Jobs & How to Get Them

Truck drivers play a pivotal role in enabling economic growth, and the need for more professional truckers is set to increase along with the economy. Apart from providing a reliable income and job security, a truck driving career offers diverse opportunities in terms of truck driving job type, pay, and position.

From entry-level truck driving jobs that allow drivers to get their foot in the door and develop on-the-job experience to roles that require niche skills, the trucking industry has something for anyone looking to hone their skillset and embrace a life out on the open road. This blog post will delve into the most common types of truck driving jobs, which trucking jobs pay the most, and how to land these positions.

Types of Logistics Driver Jobs

Dry Van Haulers: operate semi-trucks with easy-to-transport goods packed in boxes or pallets. Dry van haulers don’t typically have to load or unload cargo, allowing drivers time to relax between shifts.

Freight Haulers: transport cargo not covered by dry van trucking, like hazardous goods, liquids, or oversized loads.

Flatbed Trucking: operate an open-air trailer to transport oversized goods too large or awkward to fit into semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, like machinery or other vehicles. These routes are typically longer and require specialized skills to operate safely.

Tanker Haulers: transport hazardous and nonhazardous liquids depending on the logistics company and client.

Types of Truck Driving Positions

Local, regional, and OTR truck driving positions refer to the time spent on the road as part of the job.

Local: spends the least time on the road, and most local truck drivers return home daily. They usually operate alone and can run dedicated lanes or LTL (less than truckload).

Regional: drivers transport cargo within specific regions in the US, spending an average of 1 to 2 weeks on the road at a time.

Dedicated Lane: drivers use a specific route dedicated to a single customer to guarantee ongoing supplies and services at regular intervals. Dedicated lanes can cover short or long distances but are typically local routes.

Over the Road (OTR): also called long-haul trucking, OTR truckers drive across the country and have likely visited all lower 48 states. OTR truck driving covers the longest distances and can take weeks or even months on the road, but the pay is significantly more than local and regional carriers.

Which Truck Driving Jobs Make the Most Money?

If you’re wondering which truck driving jobs pay the most, the answer lies in jobs that require specialized skills or have higher risks. In general, owner-operators, ice road truckers, tanker truckers, and team drivers are among the highest-paying ones in the industry. This is because these drivers spend the most time on the road, have the most experience and specialized training, and take on greater risks.

How Do I Get These Jobs?

To earn more money as a professional truck driver, you’ll need to go above and beyond the standard and gain the skills, experience, and endorsements to open new doors for your career. Here are a few of the requirements involved in securing one of these highly sought-after trucking jobs:

Risks & Liability: high-risk jobs like ice road trucking, tanker haulers, and more increase the level of danger associated with the job. Higher risk means more liability for you and your logistics company.

Skills: complex skills required to navigate potentially dangerous situations

Experience: the more experience you have on the road, the more you’ll typically make. Truck drivers with over five years of CDL experience are more likely to earn more and secure higher-paying jobs.

Driving record: spotless record with no accidents or reckless driving citations

Demand for Work: certain regions with a higher demand for truck drivers will pay more, specifically in more remote areas or areas needing truck drivers.

What Are the Best Truck Driving Jobs?

When it comes to truck driving jobs, there’s no one-size-fits-all option. Depending on your priorities, certain jobs might be a better fit for you. For instance, if you prioritize home time, a regional dedicated lane job might be ideal, while if you’re looking for top pay, OTR tanker trucking might be the way to go. It’s important to remember that the best job and salary will vary based on the logistics company you work for.

Be a Truck Warrior

Drive with Warrior Logistics for a reliable, rewarding, well-paying truck driving job and advance your professional career. Whether you’re interested in expanding your skills and income opportunities or seeking a stable living with flexible terms, we’ve got you covered.

As FedEx Ground’s leading linehaul contractor, you’ll be welcomed into our Warrior family with competitive pay, benefits, a modern fleet, and ample growth opportunities. Apply today to join our Dallas, Houston, Denver, or Kansas City team, whether you’re an entry-level or experienced driver!

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