Rising fuel prices squeeze China's frugal truck drivers

Chinese truck drivers are watching nervously as diesel prices continue to rise. Since the Iran war began, fuel prices have increased about 26% to about $4.60 per gallon. So China's 38 million long-haul truckers in particular are scrambling to fill their seats. Many of them have limited budgets and live frugally on the streets. Now, pump pain is forcing some drivers to rethink their lives. Zhuang Wenxi has been driving the truck for more than five years, delivering everything from fresh vegetables to heavy industrial machinery. The life of a long-haul truck driver can be tough. Zhuang said he spends about 18 hours a day driving. Before becoming a truck driver, he was a street vendor selling fruits and vegetables. Zhuang said changing jobs early on was a good decision. But as the industry shifts to truck-hailing apps and shippers set freight rates and delivery times, it's become harder to land high-paying delivery jobs. Zhuang said he paid about $1,700 for a recent delivery that took a week. But as an independent contractor, he pays for his own costs such as fuel, maintenance and insurance. So, in order to send as much money home as possible, he cuts down on other expenses he incurs while on the road. So Zhuang converted the back seat into a sleeping area by placing a blanket on it. This will save you about $14 per night on your hotel room. He also converted the shed into a kitchen to prepare his own meals. He has a custom-built water tank for washing himself, dishes, and clothes. Highway tolls are one of the biggest expenses for truck drivers. Zhuang said he spends anywhere from $500 to more than $1,400 a month on fees, depending on the route. Therefore, he often takes small back roads. Now, with rising fuel prices, it costs Zhuang more than $580 to fill up her tank, and her take-home pay is rapidly eroding. He said some of his friends are considering leaving the industry.