TRUCKLOAD OF MORALE

MILE MARKER #50

Local truck driving jobs are becoming scarce, as companies down size to deal with the struggling economy. For the few of us that are still hanging on by an unraveled thread, we are seeing our hours decrease as the freight tonnage declines.

The endless thoughts fermenting in the back of our heads question our vulnerability to unemployment. How long before unemployment calls our number? Most of us already thought of a plan B to ready ourselves to keep our battered ship afloat.

In the last two blogs, I've kept you updated with the YRC (Yellow Roadway Corporation) merger. If that's not bad enough, YRC is pursuing relief from the Teamsters, and will likely get it. Unfortunately, I am involved in this unexpected debacle. I don't blame Yellow. I blame the horrific economy for forcing companies to make these necessary decisions, which result in many job losses - Union and Non-Union, drivers and office personnel. I believe with these companies obtaining concessions, they will lay the grounds for other trucking companies to follow suit. Furthermore, I'm afraid this is only the beginning of it.

When I look around and listen to drivers and their personal situations, their morale is depressing. It's like they are just going through the motions of work, waiting to walk the plank. They know bad news is coming, but when? For those that it already happened to, I've watched them clean their trucks out, and leave the parking lot like a car disappearing into the endless horizon. These are good hard working people. The truth of the matter is, I will never see these guys again. It is not a good feeling waiting to see if you are going to get laid off, let go, or wondering if you are going to make the list when Yellow and Roadway merge.

I never thought the trucking industry would crumble like this before I retired, but now I sit here wondering. My plan B includes a sleeper truck in the future if all fails, but I still have my fingers crossed. To be honest with you, over-the-road was never a bad fit for me, but I sure do have it made where I'm at now. My morale is still in a positive state, and I will remain optimistic until I am forced to take a different path.

Good luck to you all.