Women in Truck Driving

Truck driving has traditionally been viewed as one of the most male-dominated careers there is. This is not entirely fair, however. Although most truck drivers are men, women have been participating in the trucking industry since the 1920s (and in the railroad and aviation industries before then). Today, women make up about 5% of the nation’s truckers – a number that is expected to grow.

Historically, women have faced many serious challenges while trying to enter “men’s” fields such as freight hauling. While some unfair barriers still exist today, women have made a great deal of progress since the 1960s. Today, a woman interested in a trucking career can find many informative books, organizations, and mentors to help her.

The Appeal of Trucking

Women employed in freight hauling have cited many advantages of this career compared to other jobs as well as past opportunities for women truckers. Some aspects of modern trucking that appeal to women include:

• Equal pay. Statistics show a “wage gap” between men and women in many different fields. However, many trucking companies pay each of their workers by the mile – gender is not a factor. This makes trucking one field where women can earn the same wages as their male counterparts.
• Appreciation. While women once faced negative discrimination from freight companies, many of these businesses are now eager to hire female drivers. Statistically, women tend to be more careful drivers and are less likely to be involved in major accidents than men.
• Increased safety. Through the 1970s, many women were discouraged from becoming truckers simply because the job was so dangerous. In recent years, however, truck stops and trucking companies have been placing increased emphasis on cleanliness, professionalism, and safety. Trucking is now a much more enjoyable career for everyone, male and female alike.

If you are a woman who has always been interested in driving a truck, now may be the time to pursue that dream. Organizations such as Women In Trucking can provide some of the basic resources and information you need to get started.

Contact a Trucking Factor

TBS Factoring Service, LLC is proud to help trucking companies and independent truckers remain financially successful, even in economic downturns. Contact our truck factoring agents today at 1-800-207-7661.