What event significantly boosted the growth of trucking?

The event that significantly boosted the growth of trucking was World War II. This period saw a dramatic increase in demand for transportation services due to military logistics and the movement of supplies. The need for efficient and flexible freight transportation led to advancements in trucking infrastructure and technology, ultimately resulting in a boom for the trucking industry.

During the war, the limited availability of rail transport—in part due to its allocation for military use—made trucking a crucial alternative for moving goods. Post-war, as the economy expanded and consumer demand grew, the trucking industry continued to thrive, establishing itself as a primary mode of freight transportation in the United States.

Understanding the impact of this historical context emphasizes how wartime needs can catalyze industry growth, leading to long-term developments in logistics and transportation networks.