MONTREAL, Que. – GE Capital Solutions has conducted a global study that shows high fuel costs, a shortage of drivers and excessive regulations are not problems unique to truck fleets in Canada.

The study surveyed more than 1,200 transportation professionals in Canada, the US, the United Kingdom and France. Nearly 70% of the trucking business leaders surveyed felt high fuel prices place their business at risk.

Sixty-nine per cent of respondents claimed the driver shortage was a problem and 40% also viewed excessive regulation as a threat.

The vast majority of fleets involved in the study said they are exploring new methods for achieving efficiencies and realizing cost savings.

Surprisingly, low business volumes were not a major concern of the executives questioned. Only 8% of Canadian respondents were concerned about low volumes.

The study also revealed about 90% of fleet executives believe fuel prices will increase over the next year. They reported fuel accounts for about a third of their overall costs.

Only 7% of respondents are using alternative fuels, the study revealed. Canadian executives proved to be the least likely to consider using alternative fuels.

As far as driver demand is concerned, 22% said a shortage of drivers will impact their ability to deliver goods on time to existing customers. Canadian respondents suggested 13% of additional freight opportunities are at risk of being impacted.