In a perfect trucking world, every driver would be at home with family and/or friends, enjoying a delightful Thanksgiving meal and all of the other comforts that come with the day.
But, for many truckers, this is not a perfect holiday. Many are driving as others are dining or are parked -- hopefully someplace safe -- and having a meal they brought from home or got from a truck stop fast food outlet. Any connection to the folks at home will be on a smartphone.
This has not been the easiest of years for the trucking industry. Rates are down, and so is the amount of freight to be delivered. There have been layoffs, closings, bankruptcies, fraud, and cargo thefts.
And, the outlook for 2024 while not dismal, certainly is not rosy.
Still, there are reasons to be thankful:
- The public at large has a positive outlook about truckers and the work you do
- Trucking continues to state its case directly to lawmakers
- Healthcare services aimed directly at truck drivers are expanding
- Efforts are under way to attract more women to the trucking industry
- At least one major city is making plans for more truck parking
- The federal government is allocating funds for CDL training
- Truckers are being recognized for the work they do
No, not all of the many problems plaguing truckers and the industry they serve are being solved swiftly and completely, but it does make sense to be thankful for the progress that's being made.
Happy Thanksgiving from Truckers News.
