The '2024 Problem': Nationwide Push to Support Truck Drivers

Jan 30, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - As industries grapple with the impending "2024 problem" in logistics, there is a growing movement to compile guidelines for reducing the burden on truck drivers, who are essential to their operations. The "2024 problem" refers to concerns about a shortage of transport capacity due to stricter regulations on overtime work for truck drivers starting in April this year.

The government has called on shippers to take action to alleviate drivers' burdens. In response, an organization of processed food wholesalers has recently developed guidelines for its member companies on how to address this issue as shippers. The guidelines aim to reduce the so-called "waiting for loading" time that drivers experience and suggest expanding the hours for receiving goods and introducing a reservation system for loading and unloading as possible solutions.

Kenpei Tokioka, Executive Managing Director of the Japan Processed Foods Wholesalers Association, said, "There is a sense of crisis that the supply chain will be disrupted if we continue as is, and we are working to make logistics sustainable." Meanwhile, an industry group comprising ham manufacturers and others has also compiled an action plan that includes reviewing business practices that require drivers to perform non-delivery tasks, such as stocking products. With April approaching, various industries are taking steps to reduce the burden on drivers.

Source: NHK

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