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The Driver Shortage Has Become a Time Bomb for Road Transport! Young People Are Leaving the Profession and the Aging Workforce Aggravates the Crisis. The Transport Sector May Be Irreversibly Affected by Unfilled Vacancies and the Mass Retirement of Professionals by 2026!
The shortage of truck drivers in Brazil has become an alarming problem, directly impacting the road freight transport sector and jeopardizing the supply in various regions of the country.
With young people’s lack of interest in the profession and the aging of the current workforce, experts warn that the situation requires urgent measures to avoid a collapse in the sector.
Aging Profession and Little Renewal
A survey by the National Transport Confederation (CNT) reveals that 26.9% of truck drivers are aged between 40 and 49, indicating an imminent risk of a shortage of professionals in the coming years.
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The Japanese multinational Nidec, owner of the Embraco brand, opened more than 50 technical vacancies in Joinville with salaries of up to R$ 4.4 thousand for machining, maintenance, and manufacturing, in addition to benefits such as a profit sharing program, scholarships, and a health plan.
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The prospector who heard about the advance of soy in Maranhão and opened a grocery store in Balsas in 1986 transformed that small store into Grupo Mateus, the third largest supermarket in Brazil, with revenues of R$ 43.5 billion and 490 units.
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Fiserv, the world’s largest payment processor, has just inaugurated its first factory outside Asia in Brazil. The unit in Betim (MG) will produce 100,000 Clover payment terminals per year and is part of a US$100 million investment that includes technology and expansion until 2027.
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Fiserv, the world’s largest payment processor, has just opened its first factory outside Asia in Brazil. The unit in Betim (MG) will produce 100,000 Clover payment terminals per year and is part of a US$100 million investment that includes technology and expansion until 2027.
Moreover, a study by the National Confederation of Independent Transporters (CNTA) indicates that more than 37% of independent truckers are expected to leave the profession by 2026, further aggravating the problem.
Gustavo Krás, coordinator of the Comjovem Porto Alegre group, attributes this crisis to various factors, including the changing interests of the new generation.
According to him, young people no longer wish to pursue this career due to the long hours on the road and the separation from family and friends.
“Today’s youth think differently. Being a driver requires detachment, as it involves long trips and distancing from family. Because of this, young people are very focused on entertainment, and the profession loses its appeal,” explains Krás.
Insecurity, Low Pay, and Complex Legislation Drive Away New Drivers
Another factor contributing to the crisis is the lack of safety on Brazilian highways, marked by cargo theft and constant risks on the roads.
Additionally, the unattractive salaries, except in some regions and specific segments, make it difficult for new professionals to enter the market.
Despite the challenges, Krás argues that the profession can still be a good opportunity for those seeking financial stability.
“Even with the difficulties imposed by legislation, salaries can be good. For those without specific qualifications, the profession can offer attractive earnings,” he highlights.
Delmar Albarello, president of the Union of Cargo Transport Companies and Logistics of Rio Grande do Sul (Setcergs), points out another problem: restrictive labor legislation. He criticizes, for example, the rule that requires mandatory rest on the seventh day of work.
“This rule often prevents drivers from spending time with their families, causing demotivation and making it difficult to attract new professionals,” Albarello emphasizes.
Initiatives to Attract New Drivers
To tackle the shortage, experts propose strategies to make the profession more attractive.
Among them is the implementation of educational programs in schools, highlighting the benefits of a trucking career.
“Society needs to see that being a truck driver can be an interesting career. Modern trucks have advanced technology, ensuring more comfort and reducing the wear on professionals,” Albarello emphasizes.
Another alternative is to increase female participation in the sector. Currently, women represent only 0.5% of independent truckers, according to the CNT.
Expanding opportunities for this audience could significantly contribute to balancing the job market.
A Global Problem
The shortage of truck drivers is not exclusive to Brazil. According to a 2022 report by the International Road Transport Union (IRU), Europe faces similar challenges due to the growing demand for transportation and the aging workforce.
The study indicates that if no measures are taken, more than two million drivers may leave the sector by 2026, compromising logistics and supply in various countries.
In light of this scenario, it is clear that the crisis in the truck driver profession is a global challenge that requires rapid and effective solutions.
If nothing is done, the lack of professionals could have a severe impact on the economy, reflecting on product prices and city supplies.
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