Family challenges lead trucking survey results despite new issues

As the freight transportation landscape evolves, the challenges faced by the trucking industry remain persistent and multifaceted. An annual survey has once again highlighted the most pressing issues affecting this vital sector, revealing not just familiar concerns but also new challenges that demand attention. The implications of these findings extend beyond the industry itself, touching on broader economic and societal factors.

Conducted by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), the survey has become a crucial barometer for understanding the complexities and dynamics of trucking. The 2025 survey was released at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition in San Diego, where ATRI President Rebecca Brewster presented the results in a panel discussion that brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including fleet executives and professional drivers.

This comprehensive survey engaged over 4,200 participants from across North America, representing various sectors within the industry. The diverse responses provided a rich tapestry of perspectives, with respondents categorized as follows:

• Motor carrier executives and personnel: 46.7%
• Professional drivers: 29.8%
• Other industry stakeholders (suppliers, driver trainers, law enforcement): 23.4%

The survey not only identified the top challenges but also offered strategic recommendations for addressing them, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions.

The economy remains a top concern

For the third consecutive year, the economy took the top spot in the survey results. Rising operational costs have created a challenging environment characterized by a fragile freight market. The impact of tariffs has further complicated matters, contributing to uncertainty and a decline in truck orders.

Factors such as fluctuating fuel prices, supply chain disruptions, and shifting consumer demand continue to affect the industry's financial stability. As these economic pressures mount, it becomes increasingly vital for trucking companies to adopt innovative strategies and cost-cutting measures to remain competitive.

Reforming lawsuit abuse

Lawsuit abuse reform emerged as the second most pressing issue, reaching its highest ranking since the survey's inception in 2005. While there have been some legislative successes at the state level to combat this issue, tactics employed by the plaintiff bar have evolved, posing persistent challenges for the industry. This includes:

• Third-party litigation funding aimed at underwriting plaintiff cases.
• Staged accidents designed to extract large settlements from trucking and insurance companies.

Addressing these tactics remains a priority, as they contribute to rising operational costs and hinder the industry's ability to thrive.

Insurance costs and availability

Ranking third in the survey, insurance costs have become a significant burden for trucking companies. Over the past eight years, insurance premiums have surged by 36%, a trend closely linked to the need for lawsuit abuse reform. The unpredictability of insurance costs can strain budgets and impact overall profitability.

To mitigate this challenge, companies are encouraged to explore options such as:

• Investing in safety training and technology to reduce accidents.
• Engaging with insurance providers to negotiate better terms.
• Implementing comprehensive risk management strategies.

Truck parking challenges

The issue of truck parking, which previously held the second spot, has dropped to fourth place in the rankings. This shift can be attributed to increased investments in safe parking initiatives in states like Ohio and Pennsylvania. However, truck parking remains a top concern for drivers, ranking second on their list of issues.

Andy Owens, CEO of A&M Transport, highlighted the disparity in concern between drivers and management regarding truck parking. He noted that if executives had to contend with parking shortages at their own offices, the issue would likely gain more attention.

Driver compensation: A critical concern

Driver compensation stands out as the primary concern for drivers, placing fifth overall in the survey. Research indicates that wages have not kept pace with inflation, leading many drivers to dip into their savings just to make ends meet. Emily Plummer, a driver for Prime Inc. and member of America's Road Team, emphasized the importance of predictable pay for job satisfaction.

Key recommendations for addressing compensation issues include:

• Quantifying the economic impact of compensating drivers for all hours worked, including delays.
• Evaluating compensation packages holistically, considering benefits like health insurance.

Compliance and safety accountability

The Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) program from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rose to the sixth position on the list. In late 2024, the FMCSA announced plans for changes to the program, which aims to enhance safety measurements and accountability. However, the timeline for implementing these changes remains uncertain.

English language proficiency (ELP) for drivers

This year, English language proficiency emerged as a new concern, ranking seventh among drivers. The addition of this issue to the survey reflects growing awareness following a high-profile truck accident in Florida. Many respondents believe that addressing ELP during the CDL-issuance process could significantly enhance safety and communication on the roads.

Diesel emissions regulations on the rise

Another new entry in the survey, diesel emissions regulations, highlights the industry's ongoing environmental challenges. Brewster pointed out that while zero-emission vehicles have fallen off the list, the impending federal heavy-duty NOx regulation, set to begin with model year 2027 trucks, is a significant concern. There is speculation that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may delay or alter this regulation, but the uncertainty adds pressure to the industry.

Driver training standards need improvement

Ranking ninth overall, driver training standards have gained attention for the first time. Many industry stakeholders express concern that new entrants are not receiving adequate training to operate large commercial vehicles safely. Calls for an audit by the FMCSA of training providers have grown louder, emphasizing the need for improved entry-level training standards.

The role of artificial intelligence in trucking

Lastly, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a critical issue, ranking tenth in the survey. While AI holds promise for enhancing productivity and efficiency within trucking fleets, there are concerns about its potential impact on employment. Respondents called for more research into the implications of AI and the development of federal legislation to guide its use responsibly.

Companies like A&M Transport are already utilizing AI-enabled cameras to enhance driver training and mitigate risky behaviors, such as distracted driving.

As the trucking industry navigates these challenges, the insights from the ATRI survey underscore the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing both longstanding and emerging issues. For more details and strategies on tackling these challenges, you can refer to ATRI’s full report.

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