America’s commercial trucking industry continues to show growth as the For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index rose 0.4 percent in October and November compared to the previous quarter. The growth may seem small, but during a time when the overall American economy continues to look for positive signs following 2008’s recession, any growth in the commercial truck industry is positive news.
The index, which is put out by the American Trucking Association, represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment. In September, the advanced seasonally adjusted index equaled 118.7. Compared with September 2011, the index was 2.4 percent higher. Year-to-date, compared with the same period last year, tonnage was up 3.6 percent.
“I was encouraged that the seasonally adjusted index edged higher from August,” ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said. Costello noted again this month that the acceleration in housing starts, which is helping truck tonnage, is being countered by a flattening in manufacturing output and elevated inventories throughout the supply chain.
Costello added that overall commercial truck tonnage is expected to post a 3.5 percent increase by the end of 2012.
The recent announcement is further proof that the commercial truck industry is growing. Because of recent growth, truck drivers are in high demand and many truck carriers are experiencing a shortage of professionally trained drivers who can help meet growing demand.
If you are looking for a new job then the commercial truck industry might be the right fit for you. Receiving professional training from a respected program is the best way to get a high-paying job in the growing truck industry and Hamrick School’s truck driving and CDL training program offers some of the nation’s best CDL training.