The Rural Technology Initiative University of Washington
and
The Transportation Research Group
Washington State University
Report to the Washington State Legislature

C. Larry Mason, Kenneth L. Casavant, Bruce R. Lippke, Diem K. Nguyen, and Eric Jessup

Abstract

In 2007, the State Legislature requested scientists from the University of Washington and Washington State University undertake an investigation of the Washington log truck industry towards gaining better understanding of “the costs to safely provide log hauling services.” No such study had previously been conducted in Washington. Deregulation of the trucking industry, rising fuel prices, declining wood markets, shortages of skilled drivers, increases in traffic congestion and other ensuing circumstances have added new operational pressures that could logically have safety implications for this historically dangerous industry. Safe and sustainable log hauling services are needed to support a significant Washington forest industry and to protect the traveling public. Review of the scientific, government, and industry literature was accompanied by interviews with government agency personnel, products venders, association representatives, log truckers, and other industry professionals. Field visits were taken to log hauling operations, a statewide survey of log truck companies in Washington was completed, and a cost of operations model was developed. Cost estimates were developed as baseline required expenses of log truck operation, regardless of company revenues.

From 2006 to 2008, operating expenses rose by 20 percent, largely as a result of increases in diesel fuel prices. For 2008, analysis indicates non-wage cost of operations should average $1.58 to $1.72 per mile. When average wage-related costs are included, total operation expenses can be expected to increase to between $2.46 and $2.98 per mile depending on wage assumptions, provision of overtime, and health insurance benefits. A review of gross revenues as reported by survey respondents reveals that some businesses may be struggling to meet cost of operations. It has been suggested that economic pressures could result in deferred maintenance and increased public safety hazard. No evidence was found to indicate an increase in collisions, injuries, or fatalities associated with log truck operations. By contrast, the accident record for log trucks compares very favorably with that of the broader population of state commercial carriers. However, a number of disturbing concerns were discovered that could challenge future safety performance. The issues of rising cost of operations, extended hours of service, an aging workforce, poor driver recruitment, increasingly congested roadways, and the influx of out-of-state trucks will need periodic review to monitor impacts.

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The Washington Log Trucking Industry: Costs and Safety Analysis