In 2005 we saw major commercial carriers have major profits, due to a strong and robust economy and the ability to pass the fuel price spikes and fluctuations onto their customers. Even as the price of fuel came back down the trucking companies were slow to re-adjust the prices downward and made significant strides on the float. Thus able to keep the difference and book it in as profit. This was often not the case for the Independent Truck Driver who bit the bullet as he or she filled their rigs at the pumps.

The Independent Truck driver saw increased insurance cost and increased competition from the larger carriers and they had to keep prices low to compete, while also unable to take advantage of the piggyback rail strategies of the largest carriers. We will see increased scarcity of the independent truck driver in 2006 as new regulations of hours of operation take effect along with issues of EPA low-sulfur engine requirements.

Indeed as we saw large profits from some of the biggest commercial trucking companies,, we are also saw many show dismal results. Fuel price spikes in 2006 are expected to be the same or worse than those in 2005 say some commodity analysts. Additionally the freight index or amount of loads shipped is expected to drop somewhat, while driver shortages are expected to decrease. All this will increase load costs for the customer and further squeeze out the independent truck driver. Good luck to all and keep on trucking in 2006.

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