Lesson Summary

The trucking industry in the United States has undergone significant growth and development over the years. From relying on trains and horse-drawn carriages for transportation, the industry has evolved with the construction of railroads, electric streetcars, and automobiles.

The construction of highways, particularly with the implementation of the Interstate Highway Act, further facilitated the growth of the trucking industry. This led to the invention of the semi-truck and an increase in paved roads, making trucking a more efficient and popular mode of transportation.

Today, the trucking industry in the US is dominant, with nearly 3 million tractor-trailer combinations registered. It plays a crucial role in the freight industry.

Key Points:

• The trucking industry in the US has a long history of growth and development
• Initially relying on trains and horse-drawn carriages, the industry expanded with the construction of railroads and the development of electric streetcars and automobiles
• The construction of highways, particularly with the implementation of the Interstate Highway Act, further facilitated the growth of trucking
• The invention of the semi-truck and the increase in paved roads made trucking a more efficient and popular mode of transportation
• Today, there are nearly 3 million tractor-trailer combinations registered in the US, and the trucking industry continues to dominate the freight industry
• Freight brokers have played a significant role in the trucking industry, acting as intermediaries between shippers and carriers
• Working directly with shippers can have benefits such as better communication and time and cost savings
• With the implementation of electronic logging devices and increasing trucking costs, direct shippers may become more beneficial for all parties involved