The road freight industry is to face a crippling strike by thousands of workers across the industry.

These include long distance drivers, store men, vehicle loaders, guards, car hire personnel, toll roads staff and clerks.

This comes after three unions declared a dispute on January 29.

Negotiations in the sector had started in August last year.

The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union met in Johannesburg at the weekend to decide on the commencement of the strike and finalise the organisational programme.

The union is expected to announce the strike date today.

"We have deliberated on a number of issues, but the wage dispute forms the crux of the dispute," said Satawu's June Dube.

The union demands, among other things, a 35 percent wage increase, medical aid, housing subsidy, maternity leave and a cross-border allowance of R250. The Road Freight Association is offering eight percent. - Getrude Makhafola