America’s Truck Parking Shortage: What You Can Do About It

If you’ve ever spent an hour searching for a legal place to park your rig at the end of a long shift, you’re not alone.

The United States is facing a severe truck parking shortage. According to the American Transportation Research Institute, for every 11 trucks on the road, there’s only one available parking spot. This isn’t just a headache for drivers – it’s a safety issue, a financial burden, and a growing problem in the logistics chain.

The Real-World Impact

The parking shortage is costing drivers both time and money. On average, truckers lose nearly an hour each day just searching for parking. That’s time not spent resting, which eats into HOS compliance, adds to stress, and reduces earning potential. According to industry estimates, this wasted time can cost drivers $5,000–$6,000 annually in fuel and lost productivity.

And let’s not forget the safety risk: When drivers are forced to park on highway ramps or unauthorized areas, it puts everyone on the road in danger.

Why Is This Happening?

There are several key reasons:

• Outdated infrastructure: Most rest stops were built decades ago and can’t handle today’s freight demand.

• Urban development: Land near highways and freight corridors is often being converted into housing or retail projects instead of logistics support.

• Lack of real-time data: Even when spots exist, drivers often waste time finding out they’re already full.

What Can Drivers & Carriers Do?

While solving the nationwide parking shortage will take time, carriers and drivers can take steps today:

• Smarter planning: Use dispatch and route-planning services that include parking data.

• Stay connected: Many driver networks and communities share real-time updates about safe parking availability.

• Partner with the right dispatch company: That’s where TFB Dispatch helps.

How TFB Dispatch Supports Drivers

At TFB Dispatch, we understand the challenges drivers face every day – and parking is one of the biggest. That’s why our dispatch services are designed to support carriers beyond just booking loads:

• Optimized Route Planning: We help drivers plan routes with rest stops, fuel stations, and safe parking areas in mind.

• Time-Saving Dispatching: By minimizing deadhead miles and maximizing efficient scheduling, drivers spend less time scrambling for parking.

• Driver Support 24/7: Our team is always available to guide drivers toward safe, reliable parking options along their route.

We don’t just find loads – we make sure drivers can deliver safely, rest properly, and keep moving profitably.

Final Thoughts

The truck parking shortage is a serious challenge, but drivers and fleets don’t have to face it alone. With smart planning, reliable dispatching, and a team that understands your daily struggles, TFB Dispatch is here to help you stay safe, compliant, and profitable on the road.

Because when drivers succeed, the entire logistics chain moves forward.

TFB Dispatch