Germany is experiencing a severe shortage of truck drivers, with as many as 120,000 drivers missing from its roads. This shortage has raised concerns about disruptions in the European supply chain, as goods transportation is a critical component of the continent’s economy. The German Road Transport Federation, a key industry group, reports that the sector is struggling to attract new workers. This year, between 30,000 and 35,000 drivers are expected to retire, but only 15,000 to 20,000 new drivers are entering the profession. This gap is making it increasingly difficult for companies to manage their logistics and meet demand. The shortage is particularly acute because road transport carries 85% of all goods in Germany. Without enough drivers, companies are finding it harder to move products efficiently. Dirk Engehlhardt, a spokesperson for the German Road Transport Federation for Goods, has called for European-level solutions, as the issue affects not just Germany but the entire continent. He suggests that improvements in working conditions and administrative processes could help attract new drivers and retain existing ones. Truck drivers in Germany face a range of challenges, including long hours, high stress, and rising fuel costs. Many are also dissatisfied with their wages, which are seen as relatively low compared to the demands of the job. Daniel, a 39-year-old truck driver, recalls how he dreamed of becoming a driver since childhood, but now questions whether the profession is still worth pursuing. He cites low pay, high fuel prices, and the pressure of the job as key concerns. The aging workforce is another factor complicating the situation. Nearly 40% of truck drivers in Germany are over 55 years old, and many of them will retire in the coming years. This trend makes it harder to replace them with younger workers, especially when the profession is not seen as attractive to new generations. The German Road Transport Federation is advocating for changes such as more parking spaces, better restrooms, and more comfortable cabs to improve the working conditions for drivers. They also want fewer bureaucratic hurdles to make the job more appealing.