A look at Illinois’ truck driver shortage and supply chain issues

Some companies are offering big incentives and higher pay to lure new hires — but will that be enough?

A look at Illinois’ truck driver shortage
In this photo taken Monday, Oct. 29, 2012 trucks travel along Interstate 75 near Stockbridge, Ga. .Even amid a struggling economy with high unemployment, trucking companies had a tough time hiring young drivers willing to hit the road for long hauls. Now the U.S. is speeding toward a critical shortage of truck drivers in the next few years as the economy recovers and demand for goods increases, an expert in the inner-workings of supply chains said in a 2021 report. John Bazemore / AP Photo
A look at Illinois’ truck driver shortage
In this photo taken Monday, Oct. 29, 2012 trucks travel along Interstate 75 near Stockbridge, Ga. .Even amid a struggling economy with high unemployment, trucking companies had a tough time hiring young drivers willing to hit the road for long hauls. Now the U.S. is speeding toward a critical shortage of truck drivers in the next few years as the economy recovers and demand for goods increases, an expert in the inner-workings of supply chains said in a 2021 report. John Bazemore / AP Photo

A look at Illinois’ truck driver shortage and supply chain issues

Some companies are offering big incentives and higher pay to lure new hires — but will that be enough?

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The American Trucking Associations says the industry faces a shortage of 80,000 drivers. That’s up 30% from the estimated shortage before the pandemic.

Reset explores why Illinois trucking companies are concerned about this issue and what the shortage means for the supply chain crisis.

GUESTS: Matt Hart, executive director at Illinois Trucking Association

Amanda Schuier, chief operating officer at Quality Transport Company