How many trucks were in use nationwide by the start of World War 1?

The correct number of trucks in use nationwide by the start of World War 1 is 300,000. This figure is significant as it highlights the state of the trucking industry and the reliance on motor vehicles for transport prior to the war. During this period, trucks were becoming an increasingly important part of logistics and supply chains, facilitating the movement of goods across the country. The transition from horse-drawn vehicles to motorized trucks marked a pivotal shift in transportation, setting the stage for their expanded role during wartime. The demand for transportation services significantly increased with the war, leading to innovations and growth in the trucking sector that would follow. Understanding this number helps to grasp the historical context of trucking and its evolution into a critical industry.