The American Trucking Associations released "American Trucking Trends 2008-2009," an annual state of the industry report. This trucking industry almanac provides essential industry data that motor carriers need to make sound business decisions, especially in tough economic times.

The report indicates the industry continues to be a major employer in the United States. In 2007, there were 8.9 million people employed in trucking-related jobs; nearly 3.5 million were truck drivers.

Additional highlights from the report include statistics that indicate the trucking industry's important role in domestic and international commerce. In 2007, trucks transported 57.8 percent of the value of trade between the United States and Canada, up 3.4 percent from the previous year, and transported 66.2 percent of the value of trade between the United States and Mexico, up 4.8 percent. At present, Canada and Mexico rank No. 1 and No. 3, respectively, in terms of U.S. trade partners.

"American Trucking Trends 2008-2009" reports that all trucks used for business purposes in 2006 logged 432.9 billion miles. Class 8 trucks accounted for 139.3 billion of those miles, up from 130.5 billion in 2005. In addition, trucks consumed 53.9 billion gallons of fuel for business purposes and paid $37.4 billion in federal and state highway-user taxes. Commercial trucks make up 12.5 percent of all registered vehicles, but paid 36.5 percent of total highway-user taxes in 2006.

"American Trucking Trends 2008- 2009" provides information on U.S. truck tonnage, employment numbers, freight revenues, engine sales, modal share and international trucking. Topics explored also include safety statistics, top trailer manufacturers, highway-user taxes, U.S. motor carrier size and distribution, trucking employment by state, fuel consumption and emissions data. Trends contains data from different sources; therefore, the most recent year available may vary.

The report can be purchased at ATABusinessSolutions.com or by calling 1-866-821-3468.