The Economic Engine on Wheels: How Truck Drivers Power America’s Economy

In the vast web of American commerce, few professions are as vital—and as underappreciated—as the over-the-road truck driver. These men and women are the lifeblood of the supply chain, hauling everything from groceries and medicine to electronics and building materials. But their impact goes far beyond the cargo they carry. From contributing billions to the GDP to fueling local economies through their unique trucker lifestyle, truck drivers are a cornerstone of American prosperity. 

According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), trucks moved 72.7% of the nation’s freight by weight in 2024, totaling 11.27 billion tons of goods transported across the country. This massive movement of goods generated an estimated $906 billion in gross freight revenues, making trucking one of the largest contributors to the U.S. economy.  

On top of that, trucking-related jobs are estimated to employ 8.4 million people in the U.S., nearly 3.6 million of which were truck drivers in 2024. 

Commercial trucks paid $30.26 billion in federal and state fuel taxes in 2023, highlighting the industry’s critical role in infrastructure funding. Trucks pay an average of 24.4¢ per gallon in federal diesel tax and 31.8¢ per gallon in state diesel tax. These taxes fund road maintenance, bridge repairs, and highway safety programs. 

The presence of trucking routes also encourages investment in rest stops, fueling stations, and logistics hubs, which further stimulate regional development. 

Beyond freight, the trucker lifestyle itself is a powerful economic force. With over 3 million over-the-road drivers spending days, sometimes weeks away from home, they pour money into local economies as they travel. 

A typical over-the-road truck driver can spend anywhere from 250 – 300 nights per year away from home. Most drivers spending that much time away from home will utilize sleepers to minimize lodging costs, but this also means they require a safe place to park overnight, food to eat, do laundry, shower, etc. At a per diem rate of $80 within the continental U.S., an over-the-road driver will spend close to $20,000 in local markets over the course of the year, bringing consistent revenue for diners, fast food chains, convenience stores and truck stop chains. 

Repairs and upkeep for a Class 8 commercial vehicle can easily average another $20,000 / year between preventative maintenance, tires and repairs and other part replacements. Even if a driver is versed enough to change out their own lights, hoses, etc., their business supports locals parts supply stores, mechanics and tire shops as they travel. 

The trucking industry is not just a transportation service, it is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. It moves the majority of goods within the country, supports millions of jobs and drives $900 billion in annual revenue, contributing 6.5% to the national GDP when considering all transportation-related activities. The economic impact of truck drivers is felt at every level: locally, nationally, and globally. Without truck drivers, the American economy would grind to a halt. Their work ensures that shelves stay stocked, businesses stay open and communities stay connected.