2026 State of Trucking Report
Through seven years of research, the State of Trucking report has documented how the transportation industry responds to change.
This year’s findings reveal an industry sending clear signals. From hiring trends and driver retention to AI, safety and workforce flexibility, the decisions transportation leaders make today will shape their success tomorrow.
The trucking market is changing shape
This year’s report explores the signals shaping transportation workforce planning, from driver availability and retention to automation concerns and contingent staffing trends.
The numbers shaping transportation in 2026
Our latest research reveals where employers are struggling, what drivers want and the workforce trends that will shape hiring decisions in the year ahead.
of employers report moderate or severe trouble filling driver positions.
of drivers are not considering changing jobs in the next 12 months.
of drivers would travel for short-term driving opportunities.
of drivers are concerned AI or automation could reduce driving jobs.
Employers are increasing contingent driver staffing.
One-third of employers plan to increase their use of contingent driving resources in 2026, highlighting a growing need for flexible workforce strategies.
A clearer view of the road ahead
Download the full report to better understand how driver expectations, hiring challenges and workforce planning priorities are shifting.
Driver availability
See how employers are experiencing driver supply and where hiring challenges remain.
Retention signals
Understand what drivers are saying about job stability, expectations and future career plans.
Flexible workforce trends
Learn why more employers are considering contingent driving resources in 2026.
Industry disruption
Explore how drivers are thinking about AI, automation and the future of trucking jobs.
The driver shortage hasn’t disappeared. It has evolved.
Today’s challenge is not simply finding drivers. It is finding the right drivers, in the right market, at the right time. The companies that stay ahead will be the ones paying attention to these signals before they become operational problems.
SEE THE COMPLETE FINDINGSMake workforce decisions with better data
Whether you are planning for peak demand, evaluating driver retention or preparing for new operational pressures, this report gives you a practical view of what employers and drivers are experiencing right now.
This guide is designed for teams focused on:
- ✓ Driver hiring and staffing strategy
- ✓ Transportation workforce planning
- ✓ Retention and driver engagement
- ✓ Flexible driver coverage and contingent labor
Driver staffing built around safety, service and transportation expertise
For more than 50 years, Centerline has helped companies find, manage and retain qualified drivers. Our team supports businesses with flexible driver staffing, driver management services and mobile driver solutions built for real-world transportation needs.
years of transportation staffing experience.
truck driving jobs filled annually.
states supported with local and travel-ready driver solutions.
Ready to see what’s ahead for trucking in 2026?
Download the 2026 State of Trucking Report to explore the complete findings and prepare your workforce strategy for the year ahead.
ACCESS THE FULL REPORTGet your 2026 State of Trucking Report, today!
Here For You
As an extension of your transportation department, Centerline takes the hard work out of placing and hiring expertly matched truck drivers. We’re here to help get you on the road to success.
