The acute shortage of drivers in Europe is a systemic issue. In this article, we aim to explore the main causes of the crisis and potential solutions for businesses in the EU.
According to the IRU (International Road Transport Union), there were approximately 426,000 unfilled driver vacancies in 2024, and this number could rise to 745,000 by 2028. This is critical for European logistics, as over 75% of all land transport in the EU is carried out by trucks.
Here are the main reasons for the current crisis in the EU transport sector:
- Aging workforce: About 30% of drivers are over 55 years old, while young drivers make up only 5–6%.
- High cost of licensing and training: These costs often exceed the monthly minimum wage by 3–4 times, deterring young people.
- Unattractive working conditions: Long shifts, lack of work-life balance, and constant stress.
- Bureaucracy and unclear career prospects, especially for professionals from other countries.
Modern requirements for truck drivers in Europe
Driver’s license categories:
To work in freight transport, drivers need licenses in categories C, C1, CE, or C1E:
- C1: Allows driving trucks with a weight of 3.5 to 7.5 tons.
- C: Allows driving trucks with a weight over 7.5 tons.
Code 95:
A mandatory certificate required to work as a driver for a transport company in the EU. It must be renewed every 5 years through refresher courses, with a training duration of 35 hours.
Mandatory training:
Under EU Directive 2003/59/EC, drivers undergo standard training, practical tests, and safety exams.
Compliance with regulations:
Strict monitoring of working and rest hours under the EU Mobility Package.
How VAV Synergy helps solve the driver hiring problem in the EU
If you face challenges in hiring staff (drivers, logisticians, etc.), we offer a comprehensive approach:
- Turnkey recruitment and onboarding of workers.
- Accounting and legal support for workers in the EU.
- Free replacement of a specialist if they are not suitable for objective reasons.
You receive ready-to-work professionals, reduce administrative burdens, and significantly save company resources.
Learn more by filling out the form for a free consultation via the link.
