The latest report from the IRU on the global truck driver shortage provides a detailed look at the current state of the issue and its future implications. In 2024, 3.6m truck driver positions remain unfilled across 36 countries, representing 70% of global GDP. This figure is roughly the same as in 2023, mainly due to a slowdown in transport demand. However, a critical demographic trend is emerging: the age gap between young and older drivers is widening.
Younger drivers, those under 25, now make up only 6.5% of the global workforce. In certain countries like Italy and Germany, this figure drops even lower, with young drivers accounting for just 2.2% and 2.6%, respectively. Poland and Spain are also struggling, with young drivers making up just 3%. This is a worrying trend as the percentage of young drivers has declined by 5.8% from 2023 to 2024. In contrast, young workers in the broader labour force in these countries have actually increased by 1.4%.
Older drivers, on the other hand, now make up 31.6% of the truck driving workforce. In countries like Spain (50%), Australia (47%), and Italy (45%), the proportion of older drivers is particularly high. The average age of truck drivers globally has risen to 44.5 years, a trend that is likely to worsen as more drivers over 55 retire in the coming years. The report estimates that 3.4m truck drivers will retire over the next five years, with 21% of drivers in Australia expected to retire by 2029, 18% in China, and 17% in Europe.
In response to the driver shortage, the European Parliament has agreed to lower the minimum age for obtaining a truck driving license from 21 to 18, with the possibility of allowing 17-year-olds to drive if accompanied by an experienced driver. This move aims to attract more young people into the profession and address the aging workforce.
Interestingly, the report also challenges the notion that salary is a key driver of the shortage. On average, truck driver wages are 30-135% higher than the base cost of living in all regions, but the data shows no clear link between higher pay and fewer unfilled positions.
Job satisfaction among truck drivers remains relatively high. A survey conducted by IRU and Truckfly by Michelin found that 81% of drivers are satisfied with their jobs, with 57% being very or extremely satisfied. The highest levels of satisfaction were found among young drivers under 25, and drivers in the UK, France, and Italy reported the highest levels of satisfaction overall.
However, nearly 91% of drivers cited the need for better access to well-equipped rest areas and improved treatment at delivery sites as the most pressing issues.
Overall, while the truck driver shortage persists, the focus is shifting towards addressing the demographic imbalance, improving working conditions, and making the profession more accessible to younger generations.
Source: Ti Insight
Author: Shruti Sasidharan
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