07.04.2025 By: Jeremy Soland
Artikel Nummer: 52685
Driver shortages worsening
The IRU’s 2024 global truck driver shortage report shows 3.6 million unfilled positions in 36 countries, similar to 2023 levels.
However, structural concerns are rising, particularly the widening age gap. The proportion of drivers under 25 fell by 5.8% year-on-year, while drivers over 55 increased by 1.6%, pushing the global average driver age to 44.5. By 2029, 3.4 million drivers are expected to retire. Despite 81% job satisfaction, recruitment challenges persist, especially among younger workers.
The IRU has urged governments to integrate driver career pathways into education systems, lower age barriers for qualification and improve access to well-equipped rest areas to make the profession more attractive. (js)