T
he Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that U.S. industry and agriculture collectively were short of 33,000 drivers at the end of the first quarter of 2020. The transportation industry apparently lost six percent of 1.52 million drivers during COVID restrictions and disruptions, but since the decline in incidence of the infection, approximately 63,000 have returned to driving. Many of the older operators took the opportunity to retire. Many of the younger drivers found work in industry and construction and are able to spend more time at home with their families.
Trucking companies have successively increased wages by as much as 35 percent over twelve months to attract new entrants and to recover trained drivers. An industry spokesman suggested that additional increases in wage rates and benefits may be required but this will inevitably result in higher shipping rates.
It is estimated that spot rates for flatbed loads increased 46 percent from July 2020 through July 2021 and reefer rates increased by 36.1 percent reflecting driver and also fuel price increases of 37 percent over the twelve-month period. Average national van rates averaged $2.76 per mile in July. Reefer freight rates averaged $3.19 per mile and flatbed rates were $3.14. It is estimated that the cost to ship a dozen eggs from Columbus, OH. to Los Angeles, CA. would be 2.1 cents based on a 20-ton load.