In Great Britain, the problem of the lack of drivers, which has led to logistical delays, has hit the headlines. In some cases, this shortage of personnel has been overcome by sending drivers from the army. "In Italy, we need to take action as soon as possible to prevent this from happening," said Massimo Savini of the logistics company RLA, who also added "It is not exactly true to describe the situation as an absence of generational turnover."
The fact is that many young people prefer to be drivers for the e-commerce circuit, as opposed to the long-distance circuit. "Many young people prefer small vehicles, C or even B drivers' licenses, with shorter journeys and getting home by the end of the day. It's not that it's an easier job, though. There is a lot of stress involved in delivering hundreds of packages house to house, as well as meeting deadlines. Fewer people have chosen drive trucks".
Massimo Savini
There is another problem, which is not less important, and which is hampering generational change among drivers. "The cost of obtaining the E CQC (Driver Qualification Card) is around 6,000 euros and the exams are tough. I believe that logistics companies, contractors and also the policy makers should sit around a table and find solutions to help young people who want to become professional drivers with an E license but are intimidated by the initial cost".
According to Savini, the economic recovery will largely depend on logistics "and without drivers there is a risk of stagnation. In Italy the problem has not yet exploded, but it will in the medium-term if we don't take action as soon as possible."
For more information:
Massimo Savini
Rete logistica agroindustriale
Via Dell'Arrigoni 308, Cesena
+39 0547 657840
info@rlaitalia.it
www.rlaitalia.it