Operators are seeking solutions
More than 70% of European companies are seeking measures to retain and attract drivers.
More than half of operators offer performance bonuses and salary increases to better retain and attract drivers. In Europe, on average, the gross salary of a truck driver is 55% above the national minimum wage, and it reaches 133% in the Netherlands.
Other measures implemented by operators include investing in better vehicles (44%), covering the costs of accessing the profession (35%) and providing skills improvement opportunities (25%).
The high cost of obtaining a truck driving license and professional qualifications in Europe, which is on average 3.7 times higher than the monthly minimum wage, is a major obstacle to attracting people to the profession, especially young people.
“The latest ITU report on the truck driver shortage in Europe clearly shows that road freight companies, and therefore trade in the EU, are being affected by the driver shortage,” said Raluca Marian, Advocacy Director at IRU. “It is also clear that companies are doing their best.” To attract and retain more drivers.
“While the reasons behind the driver shortage are many and varied, the EU and governments must play their part in removing barriers to entry and supporting more attractive working conditions.
“With regard to barriers, for example, the ‘school-to-wheel gap’ should be closed by allowing 17-year-olds to gain driving experience alongside a driving instructor, and the recognition of third-country driving licences and qualifications should be harmonised at EU level. Drivers’ resting conditions should also be improved, including by building safer and more secure parking lots.
Low women’s participation
Only 4% of truck drivers in Europe are women. Germany (7.2%), Romania (6.1%) and France (4.5%) have the highest proportion of women truck drivers. Safe working conditions and access to well-equipped rest areas are key concerns for women. Improving these conditions is crucial to attracting more women into the profession.
About the report
The IRU’s European Truck Driver Shortage 2023 provides regional and national level details of the chronic truck driver shortage. The report also details the economic and demographic trends behind the shortage, barriers to entry, including legislative hurdles, and challenges limiting the attractiveness of the profession, as well as solutions implemented in response by governments, road transport associations and companies.
Download the report
ITU members can access the report via this direct link.
