American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), the trucking industry's not-for-profit research organization, has released its 19th annual Top Industry Issues report, revealing that the trucking industry is facing more issues than ever before. According to a PRNewswire article, this year's list of concerns includes the Economy, Truck Parking, Fuel Prices, the Driver Shortage, Driver Compensation, and for the first time, Zero-Emission Vehicles.
The economy has become a major issue for the trucking industry due to high inflation, rising operating costs, and declining freight demand. Truck parking has also become a significant concern, with a shortage of available parking spaces for trucks. This issue has now achieved its highest ranking ever in an ATRI report, placing second overall. Fuel prices, which were the top issue last year, have now dropped to third place. The shortage of drivers is another pressing issue, ranking fourth on the list. Additionally, the lack of proper driver compensation rounds out the top five concerns.
In response to the report, ATA Chairman Dan Van Alstine, Ruan Transportation Management Systems President and COO, stated, "ATRI's list thoroughly and accurately reflects the challenges we've faced this year... Costs were up and demand was down, all while we worked to navigate a number of workforce and regulatory issues. Thankfully, ATRI's analysis doesn't just tell us what the issues are, it spells out a number of data-driven strategies that the industry can pursue to address them."
ATRI, established in 1954, is a non-profit organization dedicated to conducting transportation research, with a particular focus on the trucking industry's essential role in a safe, efficient, and viable transportation system. With headquarters in Washington D.C. and offices in Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Sacramento, ATRI's research areas include congestion and mobility, economic analysis, safety and security, technology and operations, environment, and transportation infrastructure.
The trucking industry now faces a multitude of challenges, and ATRI's Top Industry Issues report serves as a valuable resource for identifying and addressing these concerns. As the industry continues to adapt and innovate, data-driven strategies will be crucial in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring a safe and efficient transportation system for all.