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3 Trucking Trends You Need to Know for 2024

Apr. 9 2024 Trucking By Cal Pacific Truck Center

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2023 Trends Signal a Positive and Progressive 2024 for the Trucking Industry

The trucking industry capped off 2023 with a positive roar, boasting a 4.9% rise in Class 8 sales and a significant decrease in fuel costs. According to the Department of Energy, the U.S. average diesel price dipped to $3.914 per gallon by December 25th, 2023 – a welcome change from the $4.583 average at the year's beginning.  This trend, coupled with the growing adoption of zero-emission vehicles like the International® eMV™ Series, underscores the industry's commitment to a more sustainable future.

But what's on the road ahead for trucking in 2024? Buckle up as we explore some of the key trends anticipated to shape the industry:

1. Trucking Goes Green: Sustainability Takes the Wheel

The environmental movement continues to gain momentum, and the trucking industry is no exception. Here's a deeper look at what this means:

  • Surge of Electric Trucks: Electric trucks are poised to become a more familiar sight on our city roads and highways. Government incentives, falling battery costs, and increasing range are making electric trucks a more viable option for many companies. Expect to see major manufacturers like International accelerating their electric truck production in 2024. 
  • Alternative Fuels Gain Traction: Diesel isn't going away entirely, but alternative fuels like hydrogen and natural gas are expected to play a more significant role. Hydrogen fuel cell trucks offer extended range with zero emissions, while natural gas trucks boast lower emissions compared to diesel. Technological advancements and infrastructure development for these fuels will be crucial factors to watch in 2024.

2. Tech Revolution: Innovation Drives Efficiency and Safety

The trucking industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution. Here are some key areas to watch:

  • Automation and ADAS Systems: Autonomous trucks are still on the horizon, but expect significant advancements in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) in 2024. Lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring will become increasingly common, enhancing safety for drivers and reducing accidents. 
  • Next-Generation Fleet Management Tools: Technology is transforming fleet management. Cloud-based platforms will offer real-time insights into vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, driver behavior, and route optimization. These tools empower fleet managers to make data-driven decisions, improve efficiency, and reduce operational costs.

3. Driver Talent Acquisition and Retention: A Top Priority

Attracting and retaining qualified drivers remains a critical challenge for the trucking industry. Here's what's likely to unfold in 2024:

  • Competitive Wages and Benefits: Carriers will need to offer competitive wages and attractive benefits packages to attract new drivers and retain existing ones. This may include signing bonuses, health insurance plans, and improved home time for long-haul drivers. 
  • Improved Working Conditions: Investing in driver amenities, offering more flexible work schedules, and implementing innovative solutions to reduce driver wait times at loading docks can significantly improve driver satisfaction and retention.


These are just a few of the trends we anticipate shaping the trucking industry in 2024. As a frontrunner in sustainable trucking solutions, Cal Pacific Truck Center is here to guide our customers through this evolving landscape and empower them to achieve their business goals. Stay tuned for further insights and industry updates throughout the year!