Welcome to Driving Academy’s blog, where we provide valuable insights into the trucking industry. Today, we’re diving into some mind-blowing trucking industry facts that showcase how integral trucking is to the American economy. Whether you’re considering a career in trucking or just curious about the industry, this post will equip you with crucial trucking industry information.
The Backbone of America: Trucking Industry Facts
Employment and Economic Impact
The trucking industry employs approximately 3.5 million drivers in the United States. This is a staggering number, highlighting how crucial trucking is for the economy. Without these dedicated professionals, there would be significant shortages within days—food shortages in just 72 hours and fuel shortages in 48 hours.
Moreover, the trucking industry is valued at around $680 billion annually and employs over 7 million people across various roles. This makes trucking an essential sector that supports and sustains numerous other industries.
Key Contributions to the GDP
Trucking accounts for about 5% of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This statistic underscores the importance of trucking in the national economy, contributing significantly to government spending, consumer spending, and more.
Top Transported Goods
The top five items transported by trucks in the U.S. are:
- Clothing
- Food
- Furniture
- Electrical goods
- Machinery goods
These goods are essential to everyday life and commerce, highlighting the critical role of truck drivers in keeping the economy running smoothly.
Female Truck Drivers
There are over 200,000 female long-haul drivers, and this number is steadily growing. Many women are drawn to the industry for its financial rewards, opportunities for travel, and job stability.
Fascinating Trucking Statistics
Number of Trucks and Drivers
There are approximately 15.7 million trucks in the United States. If these trucks were lined up, they would stretch from the Earth to the Moon. The discrepancy between the number of trucks and drivers is due to a significant driver shortage, with around 80,000 unfilled positions currently.
Job Impact
One out of every 15 jobs in the U.S. is directly affected by trucking. From office supplies to restaurant deliveries, truck drivers play a pivotal role in various industries.
Engine Longevity
Truck engines are built to last over a million miles, compared to car engines that typically last between 100,000 to 200,000 miles. This durability is necessary to handle the long distances and heavy loads trucks carry.
Fuel Consumption
Trucks consume about 50 billion gallons of fuel annually, accounting for nearly 13% of the entire country’s fuel consumption. On average, trucks achieve 6-8 miles per gallon, a testament to their efficiency given their massive size and weight.
Historical and Notable Facts
The Invention of the Truck
The truck was invented by Charles in 1914. His motivation was to build a vehicle capable of hauling heavy loads, such as boats, which paved the way for modern trucking.
Mileage Milestones
An average committed truck driver can drive between 115,000 to 125,000 miles per year, with many surpassing the 3 million mile mark in their careers. Reaching this milestone places drivers among the elite, often referred to as the Hall of Famers of the trucking world.
Small Business Dominance
About 70% of all trucks on the road are owned by small businesses, typically those with ten trucks or fewer. This indicates a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs in the trucking industry.
Join the Trucking Industry
If these facts have piqued your interest in the trucking industry, obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the first step. At Driving Academy, we offer comprehensive training programs to help you succeed. Our guaranteed training courses provide over 100 hours of training and unlimited attempts at the road test until you pass, ensuring you’re fully prepared for a successful career in trucking.
For more trucking industry information and to start your journey toward a rewarding career, visit Driving Academy.
