Truckers buy less gas, experts worried about industry statistics

As the trucking industry continues to enjoy success and add more jobs to the struggling market, it has often avoided some of the issues other companies are having in difficult economic times. However, a recent study by the Ceridian-UCLA Pulse of Commerce Index suggests that truckers are decreasing their fuel purchases, which would translate into a loss in the industry and fewer drivers transporting needed freight.

These findings are calculated by monitoring where truckers are traveling and hauling materials in comparison to when they add fuel to their equipment. Rates decreased 4.3 percent in the three months proceeding September 30th, but this could also be due to the traditionally slower summer season.

"Since June, trucking activity has been receding at a pace that would be expected to show up in other economic measures soon," Ed Leamer, chief economist for the Pulse of Commerce Index, said in a statement.

Despite the recent statistics, trucking jobs are still available to those who have recently completed their CDL training. Future truckers who are becoming licensed are needed more than ever to haul freight and keep the economy from becoming more damaged or stagnant.

Truckers buy less gas, experts worried about industry statistics

Friday, October 14th, 2011