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The challenges in the transport sector are increasing as the global driver shortage continues to worsen. A recent report by the International Road Transport Union (IRU) indicates that recruiting truck drivers is becoming increasingly problematic in many markets. The study identifies 2.9 million unfilled positions across 18 examined markets, which according to the IRU corresponds to about 11% of the total workforce in the transport sector.
Demographic changes as the main cause
In Europe, the situation is particularly tense, according to the report: It is estimated that around 502,000 truck driver positions are unfilled, representing a shortage rate of 13%. Approximately 20% of European drivers and 24% of Australian drivers are set to retire in the next five years. This poses the most pressing issue for 65% of European operators. The study highlights that the driver shortage is no longer just a short-term phenomenon but is exacerbated by long-term demographic changes, such as an aging workforce.
In addition to demographic challenges, structural problems are also observed in countries like Mexico and Brazil, according to the IRU. Here, inadequate training opportunities and labor shortages lead to a persistent lack of driving personnel. In Uzbekistan and China, on the other hand, the demand for freight is growing faster than the supply of available drivers. Another factor contributing to the worsening driver shortage is the changing expectations of employees. The IRU study also points out that women make up only 4% of the truck driving workforce in Europe.
