Shippers Struck by Truck Capacity Issues

August 7, 2014

Evergreen Shipping Agency (America) Corp. recently announced that its movements have been affected by “truck capacity issues,” which the shipper said have been brought on by a combination of contributing factors, including driver shortages, infrastructure problems, and stricter regulations.

“Every ocean carrier is being impacted by the truck shortages," Evergreen said. "While we are working 24/7 to honor our service promises, it is possible that the truck capacity issues may impact truck movements. This is a situation that has been growing in the past year, and despite our best efforts it is one of those challenges that is out of our direct control. There is simply more cargo than there is available drayage resources.”

Evergreen identified several causes behind the truck capacity issue:

• Driver shortages and fewer drivers are entering the job pool. Truck drivers capable of handling hazardous and overweight shipments are especially impacted.
• Ocean terminal, rail depot congestion and infrastructure issues on both coasts limit the number of moves a driver can accomplish in one day. This problem also causes a cascade effect on appointments as drivers experience long wait times at various terminals.
• Government regulations have become much stricter, causing truckers to use valuable driving time working to become more safety-compliant. In an industry facing incredible cost increases, this has impacted the driver pool

Evergreen said the culmination has impacted its expenses and schedule integrity.

The company asked its customers to provide further advance notice from on trucking needs and greater flexibility on receiving cargo as it continues to work with through the various obstacles.