Trucking companies can exploit drivers through a variety of unethical business practices that take advantage of economic pressure, lack of transparency, or the driver’s limited knowledge of industry regulations. Exploitation in the trucking sector often stems from an imbalance of power between carriers, dispatchers, and drivers—particularly among newcomers, immigrants, and owner-operators who may not fully understand their contractual rights.
One of the most common forms of exploitation occurs through unfair compensation structures. Some companies misclassify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, allowing them to avoid paying overtime, benefits, and statutory protections. This practice shifts financial burdens such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs directly onto the driver while maintaining company-level control over routes, schedules, and rates—effectively undermining the independence implied by the contract. Additionally, certain carriers engage in wage theft by withholding pay for wait times, unauthorized deductions, or falsified logbook violations.
Another major issue involves lease-to-own or lease-operator programs, where drivers are encouraged to lease trucks from their employer under terms that heavily favor the company. These agreements often include inflated vehicle prices, hidden maintenance costs, and restrictive clauses that make it difficult for drivers to switch carriers. As a result, drivers may find themselves in a cycle of debt and dependency, working longer hours for less net income.
Exploitation can also occur through excessive dispatch pressure, where companies assign unrealistic delivery schedules or penalize drivers for refusing unsafe loads. In extreme cases, dispatchers may coerce drivers into exceeding legal driving hours or falsifying logbooks to maintain productivity targets. Furthermore, lack of transparency in load rates and broker fees often means drivers are unaware of how much the company is actually earning from each shipment, limiting their ability to negotiate fair pay.
Immigrant drivers are particularly vulnerable, as they may face language barriers, visa restrictions, and misinformation from recruiters. Unscrupulous agencies may charge large recruitment fees or promise permanent residency in exchange for employment, only to provide poor working conditions or fail to deliver on immigration commitments.
Ultimately, driver exploitation in the trucking industry is not limited to one region or nationality—it is a systemic issue that thrives in environments with weak regulation and minimal enforcement. Combating it requires stronger labour oversight, transparent contracts, and education programs that inform drivers of their rights and the true costs of employment or lease agreements. Professional trucking associations and government agencies play a crucial role in promoting fair treatment, ensuring compliance with safety and wage laws, and protecting drivers from predatory practices.
