Final Mile: From Big Freight to Your Doorstep
January 16, 2026
Trucking Industry Report Spotlights Being Behind the Wheel
The American Transportation Research Institute’s 2025 edition of its annual survey of critical industry issues describes some familiar concerns still dominating the list. And there’s a notable newcomer that deserves attention.
Top Concerns
Through the survey of more than 4,200 industry stakeholders — from motor carrier managers to professional drivers — ATRI compiled a list of issues that include:
- The Economy. Still holding the top spot for the third consecutive year as the freight recession continues.
- Lawsuit Abuse Reform. Rising to #2 as nuclear verdicts continue plaguing the industry.
- Insurance Cost/Availability. Premiums rose another 3% per mile in 2024.
- Driver Compensation. Remains a top concern, especially among drivers themselves.
- Driver Training Standards. – A new entry at #9 that’s worth watching.
Why Driver Training Matters Now
Here’s what’s interesting: Driver Training Standards first appeared on truck drivers’ lists of concerns back in 2019. It’s been simmering for years, but it finally cracked the overall top 10 this year at number nine.
The reason? Drivers consistently report that new entrants aren’t being adequately trained to safely operate commercial vehicles. And while FMCSA’s 2022 Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule was designed to fix this problem, there are significant gaps in enforcement.
The ELDT rule requires new drivers to complete structured theory and behind-the-wheel instruction before taking their CDL skills test. Training providers self-certify through an online Training Provider Registry that they meet federal requirements. But that self-certification process is where things get murky.
Moving Forward
The industry’s preferred solution? FMCSA needs to audit its Training Provider Registry to ensure providers are actually meeting the standards. Training provider associations themselves have joined the chorus, asking the Department of Transportation for stronger enforcement and oversight.
Nearly 43% of survey respondents believe better monitoring is the answer, while another 31% support developing industry-wide best practices and model curricula that all schools would follow.
The Bigger Picture
As freight companies navigate economic uncertainty, rising costs, and persistent challenges, the quality of driver training becomes even more critical. Well-trained drivers mean safer roads, fewer crashes, and ultimately lower insurance costs—connecting right back to issues #2 and #3 on the list.
For an industry built on safety and professionalism, getting driver training right isn’t just about compliance. It’s about protecting everyone who shares the road.
The complete ATRI report is available at truckingresearch.org.