BC Trucking Association reporting significant impacts due to COVID-19

A survey conducted by the BC Trucking Association (BCTA) has found the industry is facing major impacts including significant revenue losses and growing staff layoffs.

“Our members have been incredibly heartened by the public’s growing awareness of the essential role that our industry plays in their lives,” said Dave Earle, BCTA President.

Earle described the industry as being “hard hit” by the effects of the pandemic.

The survey, conducted between April 29th and May 14th, found that

• Trucking companies have experienced nearly a 30% drop in revenue, a further drop of 9.3% following the survey conducted in March
• Motor coach companies continue to be hardest hit by COVID-19, with an average 96% percent drop in revenue, a further 4% reduction from March
• Industry suppliers saw a nearly 36% drop in revenue, a drop of 7.7% compared to March

Layoffs were another major issue faced throughout the industry as:

• 37% of trucking companies reported laying off an average of 22 employees, and 24% reported an average of 2 permanent layoffs.
•  77% of motor coach companies reported laying off an average of 41 temporary layoffs, with 15% saying they had an average of 17 permanent layoffs.

“BC’s motor coach businesses have been devastated by the shutdown of tourism, the cruise ship industry, ski hills, and concerts and entertainment events,” Earle added.

85% of motor coach respondents indicated they were concerned about the survival of their business if current conditions continue for three more months.

However, despite the negative impact of the pandemic on the commercial road transportation industry, about 90 percent of BCTA’s members support government measures to reduce the spread of the virus.

BCTA reported a strong response rate from members, receiving replies from 24 percent of trucking company members, 62 percent of motor coach members, and 23 percent of associate members.