Interesting facts about truck drivers

Facts about truckers to highlight their great feats and the lifestyle they maintain

Truck drivers play a crucial role in society by transporting goods over long distances and facilitating relationships between producers and consumers. Their work is essential for distributing goods nationwide, thus keeping the economy running. Despite facing loneliness and health risks, truck drivers are fundamental for road safety and promote the well-being of everyone on the roads.

However, their contribution is often underrecognized. For this reason, we have compiled data on truck drivers to highlight their great feats and the lifestyle they maintain, which is crucial for the success of the supply chain.

They cover long distances

It is widely known that truck drivers spend most of their time on the road, traveling long distances through various terrains and climates to deliver goods nationwide. On average, a driver covers between 400 and 700 miles per day, totaling around 125,000 miles per year. This is equivalent to circumnavigating the globe five times, as reported by the New York Times.

They have unusual schedules

Due to the nature of the job, truck drivers often have changing schedules. One day they may work at night and the next day in the morning, including holidays and weekends, depending on the job’s demands. This flexibility is essential to adapt to the continuous nature of the transportation sector, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. On average, a truck driver works between 60 and 70 hours per week, including wait time, and spends around 300 days per year on the road.

They play a vital role in the economy

Trucks transport over $10 trillion worth of U.S. goods annually, representing over 70% of the value of all products shipped to the United States. The dedication and resilience of truck drivers are essential for the logistics sector. They are the backbone of the economy, ensuring timely delivery of products, which keeps the supply chain functioning smoothly.

They require specialized training

Becoming a professional truck driver requires acquiring the necessary skills and qualifications. Those looking to enter the freight transportation sector must complete training programs to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This training prepares them to handle various road conditions and tackle the unique challenges associated with driving large vehicles.

They face risks and challenges

Truck drivers, besides spending long hours away from home, face health risks due to the sedentary nature of their work. It is crucial for them to prioritize their well-being by incorporating exercise and healthy habits. Additionally, they must confront various weather conditions during their travels, from heavy rain to extreme heat. Therefore, mastering driving techniques adapted to these conditions is essential to ensure safe transportation of goods.