How will road transport change in 2018?

How will road transport change in 2018?

2018 has arrived! Although 2017 was a great year for the trucking industry, the New Year will bring its share of challenges and significant changes. These will have repercussions on the road transport sector for several years to come.

Here are some of the changes that will influence truck merchandise transport in 2018.

New regulations concerning the transport of dangerous goods

In July 2017, the Canadian Trucking Alliance released its International Harmonization Update for Dangerous Goods Regulations, an annual publication. This edition noted that January 12, 2018 would be the deadline for meeting certain requirements to harmonize Canadian rules with international regulations.

The harmonization of the various regulations affects classification, indications of danger, regulatory designations, special provisions and marine pollutants. This strategy will make it easier for carriers and shippers to have a common approach for everyone.

A rise in fuel prices

The current political situation in Saudi Arabia, one of the major oil exporters, is an important factor in the price change of a barrel. The turmoil which the country is currently stokes fears of a supply disruption, raising the price of crude oil.

The tense political climate between the United States and other oil producing countries also raises doubts about the future of trade with them. If the raw material were to become scarce, the price of diesel, the main fuel used in road transport, could reach new heights in 2018.

Driver shortages in road transport will continue

The fragile balance between supply and demand in the trucking industry has been very difficult to maintain in 2017 due to a lack of staff. As the number of e-commerce companies increases and the demand for products and merchandise grows in North America, the gap between delivery needs and what road transport companies can actually deliver is widening. Also, more and more partial truckload shipments are needed. Not surprisingly, in the industry, many entrepreneurs are anxiously looking at the number of job vacancies in 2018 and trying to attract drivers to their companies.

Increased demand for home deliveries

The growth of e-commerce has led to increased demand for small business and home deliveries. Heavy trucking will have to find its place in this market or add a fleet of small vehicles to compete with players already operating in this sector. However, the rules of the game facing those who venture into this field are quite strict. They include tight delivery schedules, subject to late fees or penalties.

In 2018, choose Econonord to meet your road transport needs

In conclusion, many of the significant trends that were observed in 2017 will continue through 2018. Whether from a political or economic standpoint, they nonetheless influence the road transport industry.

To continue benefitting from road transportation of uncompromising quality in 2018, despite the challenges facing the industry, trust Econonord. Do not hesitate to contact us for a quote.