Job Outlook in Trucking
From the Department of Labor

It is thought that the trucking industry will be 250,000 drivers short within the next 5 years.

Heavy and Tractor-trailer Truck Drivers Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers  21% 

Motor Vehicle Operators 17% 

Total, All Occupations 14% 

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Employment of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 21 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average of all occupations.

As the economy grows, the demand for goods will increase, and more truck drivers will be needed to keep supply chains moving. Trucks transport most of the freight in the United States, so as households and businesses increase their spending, the trucking industry will grow.

Global positioning system (GPS) technology and better routing can make trucks more productive, limiting the need for more drivers. Also, as fuel prices rise, some companies may switch their shipping to rail to lower costs. However, rail is
unlikely to take much market share away from trucks, because even with high
diesel prices, trucks are more efficient for short distances. Additionally, many
products need to be delivered within the short time frame that only trucks can  handle.

Job Prospects

Job prospects for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are expected to be favorable. Due to the somewhat difficult lifestyle and time spent away from home, many companies have trouble finding qualified long-haul drivers. Those who have the necessary experience and other qualifications should be able to find jobs.