Median pay of 9,000 zł net, yet drivers are scarce: Poland's transport paradox
Drivers earn markedly more than the national average, yet Poland is short of 100,000 to 200,000 people behind the wheel. Money alone is not enough.
Professional drivers' salaries may well provoke envy, and yet the industry stands on the edge of a staffing precipice. Here is what the data shows.
Money isn't everything
The median wage is around 9,000 zł net, and in large companies even above 10,000 zł. As many as 80% of drivers take home more than 7,000 zł. These sums are well above the national average.
Where the problem lies
- Demographics: the average driver's age has passed 50, and there are no young successors.
- No progression: pay is similar regardless of length of service, which kills motivation.
- Working conditions: 94% have an employment contract, but the price is enormous pressure and a lack of flexibility.
A dramatic balance sheet
Poland is already short of 100,000 to 200,000 drivers. Even high pay does not make up for being away from home, the mental strain and complicated regulations. The staffing gap keeps widening.
What do you think could attract new drivers to the profession, if money alone is not enough?