Truckers in the US and abroad are protesting high diesel prices and tougher working conditions, which is bad news for anyone counting on smooth food and fuel deliveries.

• Talk of a US trucker strike starting October 1 is spreading fast online, driven by diesel prices that make hauling freight barely profitable.
• Mexican truckers have already blocked key US-Mexico border crossings this month after the US revoked thousands of driver visas and cracked down on drivers hauling US freight without permission, causing shipping delays.
• Australian truck drivers staged a 24-hour national walkout demanding raises above inflation, job security, and protection from automation.
• Tighter US rules, including strict English-language requirements for commercial drivers, are adding pressure on an industry already squeezed by fuel costs.
• Many small trucking companies could go out of business in the next six months if costs stay this high.

Outlook: If the October 1 strike goes ahead, expect delays in food and fuel deliveries and more trucking companies shutting down.