What would a good ole fashion 1970s true STRIKE do to our Industry today?

you would not get enough to make a difference. in order to make a difference you need so many striking the stores shelves empty. And that may never happen.

 

Taho, you're missing the point.
Big business may see us as a necessary evil, however, its the government that runs us, not Wallstreet. Big business recognizes that we are necessary and use full. Its in their best interest to keep us around.
Its the government red tape (regulations) that make it so difficult and expensive to run a trucking company now. Look at the cost of a gallon of fuel. The majority of its increase is due to tax hikes.
That and the increase in insurance premiums due to the increase in costs to repair and insure today's trucks and trailers is in large part what has bitten into the bottom line of most companies today.

 

So are you saying we should add more regulations to the already burdensome rule book we have now?

I don't disagree that Big business is a hindrance to us, even as a company driver.
However, without big business, we have fewer loads to haul.
Big business is a huge driver of our economy.

With fewer regulations to dampen our ability to make a dollar, we would have more ability to fight for higher wages\rates.

 

Tahoe, that is called competition. Big business is our customer base. That makes them the employer.
If you want more pay, prove your worth it. It works. Otherwise go find a Union gig.

Besides, what do you think we should be making? Is 35K a year too low? How about 45 or 55? Where does is start and stop?

I understand that we should be payed better than we are, maybe.
But consider too that most of the reason for that pay disparity is because of the high turn over rate (in other words we are doing it to ourselves). Why should a company pay a new driver top rate, to start, if they don't know how long that driver is going to stay around.
Wages are earned, by time and demonstration of skill.

 

Ive been driving 11 years now. And I'm still learning. High turn over is caused by the drivers being unhappy. Who cares why, its at will employment. They can leave at any time for any reason. Its not always the companies fault.

I understand the stool effect, as you present it. But adding regulations to any one leg doesn't add to its strength. It detracts from that legs ability to profit.

So why shouldn't a company show profits? When they do (earn profits), they can reinvest in better equipment, replace lost employees, pay for those burdensome regulations. If you need a raise every year, prove your worth it. Always strive to provide better service to your customers. Try to get to your delivery on time, as you should. Keep the left door closed, rather than stop at every truck stop on the way.

 

Even my father, who was involved in the big strike back in the 70's knows it won't work now to try and pull off a strike like that one. It can't be done like it was then. If your dad was involved in that strike, you'd know it can't be done the same way.

Besides, there are too many steering wheel holders and "yes" men on the road to pull it off.

 

I can't complain, because the company I roll with gives me good numbers,,,,

BUT,,,

If these stupid burger-flippers get their way and minimum wage goes up to (God help us) $15/hr.?
Well, my boss is under no obligation to match that as a percentage.

And I could see a lot of major carriers trying to claim some sort of exemption from minimum wage.
(I think some already do)

So if it's more money to work at McD's? I'm guessing a lot of truckers will & should park it.
(but don't ask where the meat's come from w/out a truck driver to deliver it)