Once well-paid, truck drivers now struggle to receive fair wages and respect for their essential work.
Remember when truck drivers were among the highest-paid blue-collar workers in America? Back in the 1970s, the average Teamster driver earned wages that placed them in the upper-middle-class wage-earning category — around $85,000.
Fast forward to today: Many drivers struggle to reach that figure despite longer hours and more demanding conditions. The issue of fair compensation for truck drivers, however, is about more than just dollars and cents; it’s about respect for the critical role they play and ensuring they’re paid for all the work they do — not just the miles they drive.
The hidden labor truck drivers aren’t paid for
Truck drivers perform many tasks that go unpaid: on-the-road resets, waiting for hours at shippers and receivers, and even handling on-the-road repairs. These are hours spent working, yet they don’t translate into pay, creating frustration, financial strain, and a feeling of disrespect.
The current mileage-based pay system has significant flaws. Heavy traffic, unexpected delays at loading docks, and congested urban areas eat up drivers’ time, yet they aren’t paid for the time lost. Essentially, drivers bear the cost of inefficiencies that are beyond their control. This system not only undervalues truck drivers but also contributes to burnout and job dissatisfaction.
A demanding job with personal costs
Driving a truck isn’t just another job. It’s a dangerous profession that requires skill, sound judgment, and constant focus. Drivers spend long weeks away from home, missing family events and incurring personal expenses on the road. Despite these sacrifices, their pay often doesn’t reflect the difficulty or the risks involved.
Fair pay isn’t just about money; it’s about respect. Inadequate compensation sends our drivers the message that the essential work they do isn’t valued. On the other hand, when companies pay drivers fairly for all their work — not just driving time — it signals respect for their professionalism and dedication.
Barriers to change
Many believe deregulation, which came about in the ’80s, was a good thing for trucking. Lower costs were enjoyed by all. As a result, however, driver wages have lagged behind and not kept up with cost-of-living increases. Additionally, there’s been a myth of a driver shortage floating around for a number of years. However, there has never really been a shortage of qualified drivers; rather, there’s been a shortage of drivers willing to work for the inadequate wages being offered for jobs with less-than-favorable working conditions.
To truly value truck drivers, this industry needs to improve on its current payscale. Trucking companies that recognize the value of skilled drivers and compensate them accordingly will not only retain their drivers but also set themselves up for long-term success. Drivers are the backbone of our trade and commerce, so fair pay isn’t just a necessity — it’s a statement of respect and an investment in the future of this nation.
