Despite challenges, trucking stays freight’s main vehicle

“This report shows once again what a critical role trucking plays in the U.S. economy,” said Bill Graves, ATA president and chief executive officer. “Trucking continues to move the most—and most valuable—freight in the United States despite the challenges of congestion, regulations, and crumbling infrastructure. “It is fitting this report is being released at the start of Infrastructure Week,” said Graves. “Our industry’s growth in the face of continued road and bridge deterioration has been amazing, but it is time for our elected leaders to do their part to insure that the highways we use to move America’s goods safely and efficiently are in good condition.” Among the findings in American Trucking Trends: •In 2013, trucks moved 69.1% of all domestic freight tonnage, up from 68.5% the previous year. •The industry also collected 81.2% of all freight revenue, up from 80.7% in 2012. •Trucks move the majority of all NAFTA trade, hauling 55.4% of all trade with Canada and 65.4% of all trade with Mexico. •Trucking employed more than 7 million people in 2013. •The industry paid $37.8 billion in state and federal highway user fees. “Trends is an annual almanac, a snapshot of what the trucking industry—and really what the freight economy—looks like,” said Bob Costello, ATA chief economist. “These numbers tell us what is happening in trucking, and that’s important for industry leaders, suppliers, and policymakers.”American Trucking Trends is available for purchase at www.atabusinesssolutions.com or by calling 866-821-3468.