Top 6 Challenges in the Trucking and Transport Industry in 2026

Trucking and transportation companies have dealt with a volatile industry in recent years that has provided a wide range of challenges and hurdles that need to be overcome — and while there will always be challenges in any industry, those challenges will change. The expression fortune favors the prepared is incredibly relevant to when you are faced with a tumultuous industry, and it is critical to understand the potential challenges you will face this year and in the years to come. To help you better prepare your company for the future, we have highlighted our Top 6 Challenges for the Trucking and Transport Industry in 2026 in this quick list. 

Key Challenges Facing the Trucking Industry in 2026

The trucking and transport industry is a pillar of the North American economy and continues to evolve. As we look forward to 2026, the landscape becomes more complex, shaped by persistent challenges and the emergence of new hurdles to overcome. From start to finish of the supply chain, adaptability and foresight are no longer optional but essential for long-term success. Understanding these key challenges in the trucking industry is the first step toward transforming them into opportunities for improved operational efficiency and performance.

1. Continued Driver Shortage

The driver shortage continues to be a persistent challenge for the trucking industry. While 2024 saw relief in some parts of the market, the projections for 2026 indicate a driver shortage that could exceed 100,000 drivers in North America, according to some industry sources. This is about more than just numbers — it's about attracting and retaining skilled drivers, with many experienced drivers retiring and fewer new drivers choosing careers as truckers. This shortage of skilled drivers impacts capacity, drives up labor costs, and makes on-time delivery a challenge for freight carriers.

2. Unpredictable Economy

The global economy in 2026 is expected to remain a rollercoaster, with potential inflation, fluctuating consumer demand, and complicated geopolitical markets. The current and future trade tariffs can impact shipping routes, increase costs on imported parts for trucks, and reduce freight volumes for specific commodities. Trucking companies need to be able to navigate sharp swings from periods of recession to unexpected increases in demand — making long-term planning and business growth a constant balancing act.

3. Integration of New Technology

Technology possesses immense potential for trucking and transport companies, but the rapid advance of technology represents a significant challenge when it comes to integration. Freight carriers must decide which technologies to adopt — from advanced telematics and AI-powered solutions to preliminary autonomous platooning systems — and how to integrate them into their own Transportation Management Systems and their own day-to-day operations without disrupting service. The high upfront investment for brand-new technology, the need for additional training, and the complications of integrating next-generation systems creates a technology gap between leading-edge and legacy carriers.

4. New Environmental Regulations

The push for sustainable trucking operations continues to intensify, and 2026 is expected to bring even more strict environmental regulations around the globe. Many governments are implementing stricter emissions standards for trucks, pushing for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) or alternative fuels, and imposing carbon taxes. For example, California's Advanced Clean Fleets regulation continues to phase in requirements for zero-emission trucks, setting a precedent that other states in the United States may follow. These regulations, and others, require capital investment in new equipment and infrastructure, forcing carriers to re-evaluate their entire fleet strategy.

5. Complex Supply Chains

Supply chains have become more complex and prone to disruption since the COVID-19 pandemic. Geopolitical events, labor disputes, and unforeseen natural disasters can instantly complicate North American logistics, leading to delays and increased costs. Freight carriers are pressured to provide greater transparency and flexibility for their clients, and are often forced to deal with fragmented data across multiple touchpoints, making end-to-end coordination and proactive problem-solving a real challenge.

6. Increased Equipment and Maintenance Costs

The cost of acquiring new trucks and trailers continues to climb, driven by inflation. The supply chain issues affect availability of parts and the integration of advanced safety and emissions technology. The cost of a new Class 8 truck in 2026 could easily exceed $200,000, representing a significant increase from a few years ago. In addition, the specialized parts for newer, more complex vehicles — like electric trucks — often lead to higher maintenance and repair costs that impact profit margins for carriers of all sizes.

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READ MORE: Trucking Industry Trends and Projections for 2026 

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The path forward for the trucking industry demands innovation and smart management. Tackling these Top 6 Challenges in the Trucking and Transport Industry for 2026 head-on requires innovative tools that streamline operations, increase visibility, and optimize allocation of resources.

Contact TransPlus today and discover how the TransPlus TMS platform can help your business navigate these industry challenges!

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