Driver shortages have been a persistent issue in North America, but ACT Research takes a different position than most. We believe that’s not a driver (availability) shortage, but a drive pay shortage. We readily acknowledge that there are times within the market cycles that the driver shortage is real - but those times are not persistent, are consistent with the ramp up in orders, and could be managed more efficiently in increased driver pay resulting in lower turnover and less of a need to hire, train, and onboard a new series of drivers. Wage growth, competition for labor and lifestyle factors influence driver availability. Autonomous or automated‑driver‑assistance technologies may ease shortages over time but require regulatory approval and infrastructure investment.