Charlotte, North Carolina — The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has opened its 22nd annual Top Industry Issues Survey, inviting truck drivers, motor carriers and other stakeholders to rank the most pressing challenges facing the trucking industry. The survey remains open until October 2, 2026, with results slated for release on October 18 at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte.
ATRI’s survey has become a barometer for the industry, offering carriers, associations, policymakers and researchers a data‑driven snapshot of what matters most to drivers and fleet owners. Each year the report tracks how concerns rise or fall, providing a longitudinal view that helps shape regulatory debates and company policies.
Respondents are asked to rank issues such as truck parking, detention, driver compensation, lawsuit abuse, infrastructure and fuel prices, and to suggest potential strategies. The 2026 survey will compare responses from CDL‑A drivers and carrier executives, highlighting where priorities align and where they diverge. Bob Bramwell, America’s Road Team Captain and a veteran ABF Freight driver, urged drivers to take part, saying the survey “gives all truck drivers a collective voice.” He added that whether the top concern is a lack of parking or a need for better training, the survey is a platform to bring those issues to light.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators, the survey’s findings will influence contract negotiations and fleet policies. A high ranking of detention, for example, could lead carriers to adjust detention policies or improve loading times at customer facilities. If parking remains a top issue, carriers may invest in dedicated parking lots or negotiate better access at major hubs, directly impacting daily routes for OTR truck drivers. The data also informs training programs; a focus on driver education could lead to new certification requirements that align with FMCSA regulations, ensuring drivers stay compliant while earning competitive wages.
Industry Reaction
Carriers and industry groups have long relied on ATRI’s insights to guide strategic decisions. The American Trucking Association routinely cites the report in lobbying efforts, while regional associations use the data to tailor local initiatives. Trucking companies hiring now are watching the results closely, as the survey signals where workforce needs are greatest and where regulatory changes may soon take effect.
Key Points
- ATRI’s 22nd survey opens on September 8 and closes on October 2, 2026.
- Results will be released on October 18 at the ATA Management Conference in Charlotte.
- Survey compares priorities of CDL‑A drivers and carrier executives, tracking changes year over year.
- Past reports highlighted parking, detention, compensation, lawsuit abuse, infrastructure and fuel prices as top concerns.
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