Even so, during times of short supply—like now—Treacy says the pay still isn’t enough to convince some drivers to haul produce.
“We’re working on ways to lower the minimum age for drivers, which is 21,” explains Samson. “We’d like to have 18 years of age, with a potential graduated licensing program, be the minimum for a commercial drivers’ license, matching what the strong majority of intrastate drivers enjoy.”
Even if the age can be lowered, the measure may not attract enough drivers to make up the deficit. And this is where proponents of platooning and autonomous trucks jump in—believing the high-tech innovations will go a long way towards solving the shortage.
The Future
According to Samson, technology will continue to grow from both an agricultural and carrier standpoint, though it may not be able to solve all the problems facing carriers and shippers. Nevertheless, he believes what happens over the next two years should be quite interesting.
Image: jamesteohart/Shutterstock.com
