Operators pursuing solutions
More than 70% of European companies are pursuing measures to retain and attract drivers.
Over half of operators are providing performance rewards and increasing salaries to better retain and attract drivers. In Europe, on average, the gross salary of a truck driver is 55% higher than the national minimum wage, reaching as high as 233% in the Netherlands.
Other measures being implemented by operators include investing in better vehicles (44%), covering costs to access the profession (35%) and providing upskilling opportunities (25%).
The high cost of obtaining a truck driving licence and professional qualifications in Europe, which is on average 3.7 times greater than the average monthly minimum wage, constitutes a significant barrier to attracting people to the profession, especially young people.
IRU Director of EU Advocacy Raluca Marian said, “IRU’s latest European truck driver shortage report clearly demonstrates that road freight companies, and consequently EU trade, are being impaired by the shortage of drivers. It’s also clear that companies are doing everything they can to attract and retain more drivers.
“While the causes behind the shortage of drivers are diverse, the EU and governments must play their role in eliminating barriers to entry and supporting more attractive working conditions.
“Regarding barriers, for example, the ‘school-to-wheel gap’ should be closed by allowing 17-year-olds to gain driving experience alongside a driver-trainer, and the recognition of third-country driving licences and qualifications should be harmonised at the EU level. Drivers’ resting conditions should also be improved, including by building more safe and secure parking.”
Low women participation
Only 4% of European truck drivers are women. Germany (7.2%), Romania (6.1%) and France (4.5%) have the highest shares of women truck drivers. The availability of secure working conditions and access to well-equipped rest zones are the primary concerns for women. Improving them is key to attracting more women to the profession.
About the report
IRU’s 2023 European truck driver shortage provides regional and national level breakdowns of the chronic shortage of truck drivers. The report also details the economic and demographic trends behind the shortage , the barriers to entry, including legislative obstacles, the challenges limiting the attractiveness of the profession, as well as the solutions implemented in response by governments and road transport associations and companies.
Download the report
IRU members can access the report via this direct link.
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