Trucks are used every day to move goods from one spot to another, from point A to point B – whether that is groceries, furniture, construction equipment, mining materials, and more. Without trucks, a majority of businesses would not be able to run the same way they do now. So where did trucks and trucking companies start?
The beginning
The trucking industry technically first began in 1863. They were used in the mines but were unrecognisable to the trucks we know today, as they were steam-hauled road trains. The next evolutionary leap for trucks was in 1912 when internal combustion engines were developed and initiated into creating petrol-powered trucks.
What happened next?
Even though trucks are a convenient mode of transportation, the rails were the prioritised mode of transport and delivery. But that all changed with the demands of war. Then even when the war ended, people still needed trucks and realised their usefulness. There was some controversy over the years with regulations of trucks and the preference for rail, but the trucking industry continued to grow over the years due to the ease of transportation, speed of deliveries, and the safety of the goods compared to other modes.
What about the trucks themselves?
The trucks themselves have changed dramatically over the years, and it wasn’t until the 50’s that historical trucks began to resemble the ones we see on the roads today. Then in the 70’s the first ever Australian-manufactured truck was finished by Kenworth. In that time, competition developed between manufacturers with more modern designs emerging over the years.
So what about now?
In 2023 the trucking industry’s market size is 65 billion. There are over 500,000 trucks on our roads with around 246,000 employees.
There are also around 40,000 trucking companies in Australia. So when it comes to who you choose when considering a truck company, it can be a little daunting. One of the leading and most trusted companies is DSE Transport, celebrating 30 years anniversary. If you want to know more about DSE Transport, you can check out their new super user-friendly website.
Conclusion
Trucks have been an important part of Australian history and society for the last 160 years. Without trucking companies, a majority of businesses wouldn’t be able to thrive as they do today.
Media Contact
DSE Transport
Address: 11 Vater St, DRY CREEK SA 5094
Tel: 1300 783 781
ops.sa@dsetrucks.com.au
