The American Trucking Associations compiles annual statistics on the US trucking industry illustrating its central role in domestic commerce. According to ATA data, trucking carries approximately 72.5 percent of all freight tonnage moved in the United States, reflecting the industry's dominance in both short-haul and long-haul freight markets.
The trucking industry employs approximately 3.4 million truck drivers and supports roughly 8.4 million total jobs across driving, maintenance, logistics coordination, and related functions. Combined revenue from trucking operations accounts for approximately $940 billion annually.
Large truckload carriers and less-than-truckload operations represent distinct market segments. Truckload operations move full shipments directly from origin to destination, while LTL carriers consolidate freight from multiple shippers. Private fleets operated by manufacturers, retailers, and distributors account for a significant portion of total truck miles operated.
Driver demographics continue to shift as the industry works to attract younger workers. The average age of commercial truck drivers has risen over the past two decades, creating long-term workforce replenishment challenges. Industry associations have advocated for licensing reforms and apprenticeship programs as partial solutions.
Source: American Trucking Associations -- https://www.trucking.org/economics-and-industry-data