On the opening day of the Conftransporto International Forum, IRU’s Secretary General underscored the resilience that road transport brings to communities and businesses during unstable times.
At the ninth edition of the Forum, IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto outlined how the key to advancing the resilience of road transport lies in tackling driver shortage, decarbonisation and digitalisation challenges.
Umberto de Pretto said, “In times of instability, the resilience of road transport is crucial. Economies and societies rely on us.”
“This commitment to resilience is what led to the creation of the IRU Charter 75, which reinforces our dedication to rescue and rebuild communities and make mobility networks and supply chains stronger against future shocks. But there is work to be done.”
“The key to further raising the resilience of road transport requires us to tackle driver shortages, decarbonisation and digitalisation.”
Driver shortage
The global chronic shortage of truck drivers is forecast to double by 2028, threatening the efficient operation of supply chains. Over half of transport operators are already struggling to hire skilled drivers.
In Italy, 7% of truck driver positions are unfilled, projected to hit 17% by 2028. Italy’s shortage is heavily influenced by demographic factors. Only 3.4% of truck drivers are under 25 and just 1.6% are women.
“Investing in people is the most important element to make supply chains more stable. To attract new talent, especially women and youth, we need to keep entry barriers to the profession low and improve working conditions,” said Umberto de Pretto.
“And above all, drivers need to be recognised for what they are: heroes!”
Decarbonisation
IRU and its members are dedicated to achieving the full decarbonisation of road transport by 2050, as set out in the IRU Green Compact. But this goal presents significant challenges.
“To decarbonise while continuing to effectively meet growing transport demand, we must focus on efficiency measures, and, in parallel, have a longer-term strategy of incorporating alternative fuels, which depends significantly on the availability of the required infrastructure,” said Umberto de Pretto.
“Transport operators know best how to run sustainable services. This is basic business sense. But without the required enabling structure, a widespread adoption of alternative fuels will remain beyond our reach.”
Digitalisation
Digitalisation is key to reinforcing the resilience of road transport, enabling the industry to support economies more effectively during periods of instability.
“Technology is evolving rapidly, making supply chains more efficient and sustainable. Trucks are increasingly connected in real-time to logistics platforms, improving safety, productivity and transparency,” said Umberto de Pretto.
“But we shouldn’t forget about ‘bread-and-butter’ digitalisation measures, especially for cross-border services. Moving from paper to a fully digital exchange of data on transit, transport and customs procedures, as well as permits and visas, has never been more urgent.”
“A good example is e-CMR, which Italy joined this year as the 36th country. e-CMR now needs to become operational for cross-border transport within and beyond the EU.”
Umberto de Pretto closed by underscoring another key element to making supply chains more stable in Italy and globally: collaboration.
“We need different modes of transport to work together, transport operators to work closely with their suppliers and clients, businesses and governments to work closely together, and for all actors in the logistics ecosystem to work together at both the national and global level to ensure harmonisation.”
