Is this emblem of American truck driving still true to today’s industry? Let’s dive in.
We have a lot of stereotypes about truck drivers in the US, and indeed, they are a beloved symbol of American life. We think of truckers as rough, hearty folk who love traveling long distances. Another stereotype of the American truck driver is the use of CB radios. Do truck drivers still use CB radio?
Yes, Truck Drivers Still Use CB Radio
As of 2025, around 54% of truck drivers still use CB radio as a main form of short-distance communication. CB radio became popular in the 1970s, and its popularity reached a broader audience. While GPS, cellphones, and other technology has arisen, many seasoned truckers are comfortable using this reliable communication tool today. Truck drivers who use this include all kinds of truckers, whether freelance, in-house, or agency, or OTR, regional, or local.
What Is CB Radio?
CB radio stands for Citizens Band radio and was invented in 1945. As mentioned above, it is a short-distance radio for two-way communication. It uses 40 different radio channels within the 27 MHz band, which is more reliable than cellular communication, especially in rural areas. The main channel truckers use is Channel 19, while Channel 9 is for emergencies. Channel 1 is most popular with East Coast truckers.
How Do Truckers Use CB Radio?
Truckers use CB radio to alert other truckers about weather, traffic, and other conditions that a driver farther away might not know about until they come upon the scene. They can also tell each other about the presence of law enforcement, road closures, accidents, and other emergencies, similar to how Google Maps or Waze apps alert drivers about road conditions. Truckers can also discuss trucking industry-specific information.
Communication Is Key in the Truck Shipping Industry
Communication between truck drivers can be vital for promoting efficiency and getting loads to their destinations as safely as possible. CB radios have been the reliable way to do so for many decades, but they also come with nostalgia and a vessel for camaraderie over the years.
Evan Transportation is happy to talk with you about how our outsourced truck shipping service works in the Mid-Atlantic region. If you need professional, reliable regional trucking, Evan Transportation can haul your general, oversized, hazardous, or perishable freight with ease.
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