Intro
In this episode of “Stuff You Should Know,” the hosts discuss the fascinating world of trucking. From its historical origins to the impact of technological advancements, they dive into the essential role truckers play in delivering goods and the challenges they face in the industry.
Main Takeaways
Childhood Memories and Acknowledgment of Truckers
- Childhood memories of interacting with truckers on the highway
- Acknowledgment of truckers as listeners and interest in discussing trucking industry
Revolutionizing the Trucking Industry
- The modern tractor trailer was invented in the early 1900s by August Fru fruit house.
- Fru fruit house’s fifth wheel design revolutionized the trucking industry by allowing for quick and easy attachment of trailers.
- The invention of the fifth wheel allowed for the modular and swappable nature of trailers, which helped the trucking industry to grow.
Impact on the Economy and Advancements
- Trucking is essential to the world’s economy, carrying the majority of freight by weight.
- Trucking has allowed for the advancement of the US economy and created new opportunities.
- Air tires and refrigerated trucks were significant developments in the trucking industry.
- Fred Jones, an African-American Army veteran, developed the refrigerated truck in the 1930s, which revolutionized the transportation of perishable goods.
- Prior to refrigerated trucks, perishable goods were mostly local, and truck breakdowns could result in the entire shipment being a loss.
- The refrigerated trailer had a huge impact on the economy and the way we consume food.
- Standardized shipping containers cut down on theft and damage and allowed for more efficient trucking.
- The Federal Highway Act of 1956 created the highway system and increased efficiency by getting rid of waystations.
- Technological advancements have revolutionized the trucking industry.
Challenges and Future of Trucking
- Technological improvements have made the trucking industry safer, but it has also affected truckers’ ability to make money.
- FedEx charges extra for longer delivery times or for weight over a certain amount.
- Detention time pay for truckers is often not included in their pay and can be passed on to the shipper.
- Trucks have evolved from basic designs to include sleeper cabs with comfortable amenities.
- Truckers can pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for their vehicles, which are meant to go for 800,000 to over a million miles.
- Diesel engines are better for hauling heavy loads but are dirty and emit greenhouse gases.
- Driverless trucks are being tested on public roads and may be the future of the industry.
- Truckers are mistreated in the industry, leading to a trucker shortage and high turnover rates.
- Services and amenities for truckers are decreasing, making it difficult for them to take care of themselves.
Summary
Trucking’s Historical Impact and Advancements
Trucking has played a vital role in the world’s economy, carrying the majority of freight by weight. The invention of the modern tractor trailer, with August Fru fruit house’s fifth wheel design, revolutionized the industry by allowing for quick and easy attachment of trailers. Technological advancements such as air tires, refrigerated trucks, and standardized shipping containers have further improved efficiency and expanded the transportation of goods. However, these advancements have also posed challenges for truckers, affecting their earnings and work conditions.
The Challenges and Future of Trucking
While technological improvements have made the trucking industry safer, they have also impacted truckers’ ability to make money. Issues such as extra charges for longer delivery times, unpaid detention time, and decreasing services and amenities for truckers have become prevalent. Additionally, the rise of driverless trucks poses a potential shift in the industry’s future. The mistreatment of truckers and the need for better treatment and working conditions are pressing concerns that the Biden administration aims to address.
Conclusion
The trucking industry, with its historical significance and ongoing advancements, continues to be an essential pillar of the global economy. However, the challenges faced by truckers, from economic pressures to mistreatment, highlight the need for improved working conditions and fair compensation. As the industry evolves, finding a balance between technological advancements and the well-being of truckers will be crucial for its sustainable future.
