SPRING 2024

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 145
CHRIS DONNELL LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN AT A GLANCE from page 144
We’re seeing in many sectors where available
capacity far out-number the available loads which is
resulting in costs taking a significant tumble. We’re
seeing far less issues with the number of available
drivers, with the exception of weather-related issues
such as the most recent storm to hit the Northeastern
part of the country. Overall truck tonnage and mileage did
decline in 2023, by around 1.4%, resulting in a year over
year decline in 5 years. Costs of Labor and parts have
seen an increase due to inflationary pressure, therefore,
trucking carriers are entering into a stage of resilience
and restructuring.
Fuel costs are hovering around $4.10 per gallon for
diesel fuel which is up $0.11 per gallon from a week ago
but overall, the cost of fuel is down by more than 5%
versus the same time last year. The recent increase is
due in large part to the weather and timing of the year,
an increase in the months of January and February are
typical.
Another benefit taking place in the world is the
infusion of multiple grants and investments geared at
attaining and growing our aging fleet of vehicles, drivers
and infrastructure. Our government is infusing some 45
billion into the redevelopment and improvements to rest
areas, education and road improvements, something
that is vastly needed as the trucking industry is vital to
our nation’s economy. As you know, more than 90% of all
goods sold in the United States moves by truck in some
form or another. In short, hug a trucker, they are vital to
everyone’s global supply chain.
CHRIS DONNELL