Crete Carrier Corp. and Shaffer Trucking have become the latest fleets to raise driver pay in response to growing demand.

Tommy Walters, hauling lawnmowers to Rhode Island from Maryland with his Boston terrier Daisy riding shotgun, is feeling flush these days after the biggest raise of his 17-year trucking career.

Boyd Bros. Transportation is increasing average driver pay to 54 cents per mile and increasing seasonal bonus by 2 cents per mile for company drivers, the company said.

Transport America is increasing starting driver pay to 43 cents per mile and raising pay for owner operators, solo, team and hazmat drivers.