The Taiwan earthquake could seriously disrupt the electronics industry, affecting trucking in the U.S., especially the less-than-truckload industry.
Taiwan supplies many of the memory circuits used in computers and other high-volume electronic devices. A memory shortage would significantly slow shipments of products, especially package and LTL shipments from mail order and internet manufacturers that keep very small inventories.
The quake has shut down all 28 semiconductor factories in Taiwan. Reports so far are that the area has no electricity. When power is restored, the delicate equipment which is carefully insulated from vibration and the piping that carries toxic gases have to be carefully inspected. Any damage may take weeks or even months to repair.
Typically, a semiconductor fabrication line takes one to six months to tune to full production when it is set up or significantly reworked.
Taiwan is also a contract manufacturer for a large share of the custom semiconductors used in a wide variety of products -- audio/video, consumer appliances, telecommunications, computer accessories and industrial controls. Often, a Taiwanese company is the only source for these circuits.
Currently the information technology industry has very low inventories -- about one month including work in process and finished products. A several week supply interruption would cause some shipping delays. Also likely is the need for fast delivery of supplies from alternate sources, which could be good news for the expedited freight industry.
Earthquake In Taiwan Could Affect LTL Shipments
The Taiwan earthquake could seriously disrupt the electronics industry, affecting trucking in the U.S., especially the less-than-truckload industry
More Equipment

Is the All-New VNR Volvo's Safest Truck Ever?
The all-new Volvo VNR is jam-packed with advanced safety features. Join HDT for a first-hand look at how Volvo is keeping drivers safer and productive on the road.
Read More →
Volvo Redesigns the VNR With Drivers and Tight Turns in Mind
At Volvo’s New River Valley customer center, the all-new VNR proves that maneuverability, safety, and driver confidence can coexist in a regional-haul workhorse.
Read More →
FTR: Trailer Orders Jump in March, but Demand Still Lags
March trailer orders posted an unexpected monthly jump, but demand still trails historical norms as fleets prioritize power units over trailing equipment.
Read More →
Autonomous Start-Up Humble Announces Cabless Autonomous Electric Hauler
A new autonomous truck startup company is targeting yard, port, and short-haul freight with a lighter, fully autonomous platform designed for dock-to-dock moves.
Read More →
Top Green Fleets of 2026: Nomination Deadline Extended
Is your company a leader in sustainability efforts among trucking fleets? If so, Heavy Duty Trucking's editors want to hear from you.
Read More →
Kenworth Announces Reinforced Front Frame Option for T880 and T880S Models
Kenworth has released a factory-installed reinforced front frame option for T880 models, designed to simplify upfits, cut costs, and speed time to service.
Read More →
Stoughton Rolls Out PureBlue Reefer Trailer, Raises Safety Bar With 40-mph Rear Impact Guard
Stoughton’s new refrigerated trailer platform delivers double-digit efficiency gains while a next-generation rear impact guard exceeds current crash standards.
Read More →New Lightweight Wheel Cover Targets Simpler Aero Gains [Watch]
Watch to learn how Deflecktor's new wheel cover design is taking a simpler approach to aerodynamics, with an eye toward making it more practical for both trucks and trailers.
Read More →
How Maxiloda’s Glide System Unlocks Hidden Trailer Capacity
By turning unused vertical space into usable capacity, Maxiloda’s Glide system helps fleets move more freight per trip while reducing loading risks and equipment damage.
Read More →
Deflecktor: Hubbub Aerodynamic Wheel Cover Cost-Effective Even for Trailers
Aerodynamic wheel covers can deliver small but meaningful fuel-economy gains for fleets, and Deflecktor says its latest design aims to make the technology easier and more affordable to deploy.
Read More →
