With signs that the three-year-long freight recession is easing, will the economy still be the top concern for trucking in the American Transportation Research Institute's annual survey? Or will newer issues such as artificial intelligence and English language proficiency top the list? Will the driver shortage come roaring back as a top concern?

ATRI is asking motor carriers, truck drivers, and other industry stakeholders to identify trucking’s biggest concerns for 2026. This research arm of the American Trucking Associations has opened its annual Top Industry Issues Survey, which asks participants to rank the most important issues facing trucking and potential strategies for addressing them.

Now in its 22nd year, the survey tracks how industry concerns change over time.

ATRI also breaks out the results for motor carriers and professional truck drivers, offering a look at where their priorities align — and where they differ.

What is ATRI's Top Industry Issues Survey?

Past surveys have highlighted concerns ranging from the economy and truck parking to driver compensation, detention, regulations and infrastructure.

“For more than two decades, the Top Industry Issues list has been essential reading for any professional seeking to gain deeper insight into the current state of trucking,” said ATA Chair Greg Hodgen, CEO of Groendyke Transport. He said the results help identify industry priorities and inform trucking advocacy and policymaking.

Bob Bramwell, an America’s Road Team Captain and professional driver for ABF Freight, encouraged drivers in particular to participate.

“If your top concern is the lack of truck parking, driver compensation, detention at customer facilities, driver training, infrastructure or something else, this is your chance to bring those issues to light and have your voice heard,” he said.

The survey will remain open through Oct. 2. Industry stakeholders can complete the survey online here.

ATRI plans to release the results on October 18 during the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte, North Carolina.