Rebecca Brewster, President and COO of the American Transportation Research Institute, frequently emphasizes an important message to carrier executives: if they are concerned about hiring and retaining drivers, they must actively understand and address what drivers identify as their primary issues.
In recognition of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Trucking Dive has compiled five key insights—without any particular order—derived from interviews and ride-alongs with drivers conducted this year.
1. Drivers Represent Your Company. Remember This.
As the individuals who consistently engage with customers, drivers significantly influence a carrier’s success through their daily performance. Regular meetings to hear their concerns can make a substantial impact.
“It provides drivers a chance to present their issues directly to the decision-makers,” stated Jesse Weeks, a driver-instructor for A. Duie Pyle, during a ride-along in May. “It allows them to be seen by those who actually make the key decisions.”
2. Effective Communication is Essential.
Poor communication from dispatchers and driver managers can lead to daily losses of time and money for truck drivers. Rosalinda Tejada from Knight Transportation, who boasts 26 years of experience, attributes high turnover rates in the industry to these communication gaps.
“Unfortunately, the lack of communication is a significant contributor to turnover,” remarked Tejada, who has been honored as the Truckload Carriers Association Professional Driver of the Year. “Although my company has its strengths, sometimes it falls into this communication trap due to the sheer number of drivers.”
3. Compensate Drivers Fairly for Their Services.
Tejada, who drives extensively up to her hours of service limit, expects that all drivers receive pay reflective of the value they bring. She pointed out that monthly bonuses tied to productivity are often hindered by unforeseen circumstances.
“Being away from my loved ones and my pets is challenging,” she explained. “If you want me to work hard, then compensate me accordingly.”
4. Extend Gratitude Beyond Truck Driver Appreciation Week.
Tejada and other Professional Drivers of the Year, including Clark Reed from Nussbaum Transportation and Tim Chelette from Big G Express, praised their firms for their daily efforts during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week but noted the industry could do more year-round.
“A simple call to check in and express appreciation can have a significant impact,” said Reed. Another meaningful gesture would be assisting with parking costs, which, at $20 per night, can be burdensome, he noted.
5. Avoid Distracted Driving.
Truck drivers often witness motorists distracted by texting, emailing, or scrolling through social media while driving.
“People drive with their phones in hand all day,” reported XPO driver Steadman “Steve” Mitchell during a February ride-along. Tejada echoed this concern, revealing that she has seen drivers watching movies while on the road. “It’s alarming,” she said.
Truck drivers prioritize their safety as much as anyone else’s. For everyone’s wellbeing, it’s crucial to keep phones away while driving.
