The Need-To-Know Trucking Industry Trends of 2022

The overwhelmed supply chain in the United States wreaked havoc for retailers and consumers during much of 2021. And while it certainly was a considerable challenge in the trucking industry, it also provided opportunities for the growth of the transportation industry. According to a report released by the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and partners, the near future of trucking is bright.

The ATA estimates freight volumes in tonnage to see a 24% increase in 2022. Even more exciting for drivers, owner-operators, fleet managers, trucking companies, business owners, and other industry stakeholders is that the report projects revenue growth in the transportation industry to see a 66% increase.

One of the biggest reasons forecasts are so optimistic is the backed-up supply chain. While it’s undoubtedly one of the most impactful challenges in the trucking industry, it only highlights the need for reliable, timely, and safe cargo transportation. Finding out the most effective and efficient ways to transport goods once they’re unloaded from backed-up ports is a critical issue and a trucking industry trend of 2022 to keep an eye on.

Another significant factor is the continued growth of online retail. The e-commerce boom was once looked at as a hindrance to the future of trucking. However, it’s now proving to be a significant source of growth of the transportation industry. The dramatic increase in online sales has caused a surge in shipping needs, and that doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.

One of the most fascinating trucking trends of 2022 and beyond is the role of autonomous trucks.  Artificial intelligence is sure to gain traction as a solution if difficulties in finding truck driving professionals persist. With such a high demand for shipping and so many businesses investing in driving technology, it’s only a matter of time until the next breakthrough alters the future of trucking.

The safety measures that have become the standard in passenger vehicles are expected to come to the forefront of the trucking industry. One of the biggest challenges the trucking industry faces is how to upgrade older rigs with safety measures like rear view cameras, blind spot sensors, and seat belt sensors. Implementing technology that recognizes distracted or drowsy driving, especially for long-haul services, is a positive trucking technology trend sure to keep everyone safe in the years to come.

The truth is no one knows what 2022 has in store for gas prices, but we can take a closer look. According to estimates provided by the United States Energy Information Administration, diesel fuel costs are expected to rise in the early months of 2022. However, in what could be one of the most impactful trucking industry trends of 2022, prices are expected to decline steadily by the end of the year.

In summary, some of the most important trends expected to play a role in the future of trucking this year are:

• A complicated supply chain comes with challenges in the trucking industry as well as incredible opportunities.
• The anticipated growth of the transportation industry emphasizes the need to hire more truck driving professionals to meet demands. 
• Trucking technology trends focus on safety and filling in staffing gaps.
• The trucking industry’s outlook on fuel prices is uncertain but optimistic for the end of the year.