A lot of challenges face Hawaii truck drivers. For starts, being on an isolated island separated from the mainland by approximately 2,500 miles can leave them stuck. On top of that, many stores are left without food and basic supplies.
Challenges of Waiting
Where mainland America might have its own issues, being secluded on an island presents different ones. Truck drivers on all Hawaiian islands are having a tough time keeping up with the demand that many stores require in order to stay stocked. This creates an ebb and flows to the industry. Long wait times for supplies and then long hours on the road means a change of pace that most aren’t accommodated for.
Where it takes time for shipments and supplies to reach the islands, many truck drivers are finding their wait times increase. Many are left idling for the next shipment, and if a truck driver is not driving, then they are not earning income. Living on the island can be expensive and for many drivers, their income barely gets them by as it is. For the experience and skilled veterans drivers, this is also the case.
Closed Truck Stops
Many drivers are finding it hard to make their trips with the lack of available truck stops. Hawaii and the surrounding islands are small. Much smaller than most states in the country, but the ability to stop and gather supplies, go to the bathroom and take care of basic hygiene. With cleanliness becoming a top priority for everyone across the globe, maintaining healthy well-being is key. Many are facing long routes with little to no openings for stops.
Low Supplies
Island trucking doesn’t necessarily fall under long driving and long hours, but it can in some circumstances. That is why its important for many truck drivers to stay stocked on their own personal supplies. Food, water, and basic living conditions are limited resources right now and many truck drivers across the islands are feeling the hit.
The basic necessities to make overnight trips should always be in good supply. From hand soap to gloves, truckers are finding it difficult to maintain products that are typically available. Much like everyone else on the islands, these issues are longstanding.
Future Challenges are Uncertain
For many businesses on the islands, truck driving has been put on a slow roll. This has lead to a dramatic decrease in job opportunities as well as job loss. The difference between mainland America and the islands is that, despite the demand for more truckers, businesses are not able to keep many of them around for those long wait times between shipments. Many drivers have been furloughed or laid off due to the decreasing amount of shipments and time to sterilize the products. For many, the end is not in sight. These challenges are faced by everyone living so far from the mainland.
