In 1988, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) launched a nationwide celebration that would forever change the way we recognize and honor the unsung heroes of our highways – truck drivers. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week has since become an annual cornerstone program dedicated to acknowledging the invaluable contributions of these dedicated professionals. From September 15 to 21, Americans will once again unite to pay tribute to the millions of truck drivers who are the lifeblood of our nation’s economy during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2024.
Below, we explore the significance of celebrating Truck Driver Appreciation Week. We also discuss how driver retention and buy-in begin with ensuring that your drivers feel valued and appreciated.
Interesting Trucking Industry Facts
Over 80% of U.S. communities rely exclusively on trucks to meet their freight transportation needs. From the food on our tables, clothing we wear and medicine we rely on, to household products, construction materials and heavy-duty equipment – virtually everything that fills our lives and powers our economy is made available thanks to a truck and a driver behind the wheel.
Did You Know?
- The trucking industry hauled 72.5% of all freight transported in the United States in 2019, equating to 11.84 billion tons.
- The average trucker will drive over 100,000 road miles per year. That works out to nearly 40 trips across the United States. The average U.S. motorist drives about 13,500 miles a year.
- Most grocery stores would run out of food in just three days if long-haul truckers stopped driving.
- In 2018, the trucking industry was short 60,800 drivers – a record high and up 20% from the previous year. If the current trends continue, the shortage could reach 160,000 by 2028.
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7 Effective Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Top-Notch Drivers
The Importance of Celebrating Truck Driver Appreciation Week
Truck drivers are the backbone of our nation’s economy, working tirelessly to ensure that essential goods and resources reach our communities. They haul heavy loads over great distances, bearing the responsibility of keeping our supply chain moving. They endure long hours on the road, often far from home and family, while navigating congested highways and facing extreme weather conditions – all to ensure that goods are delivered safely, securely and on time. Yet despite their crucial role, truck drivers often go unnoticed.
That’s why National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is such a vital opportunity to recognize and express gratitude for their hard work. By celebrating this week, we remind drivers that their dedication is acknowledged and highly valued, which can have a lasting positive impact on their morale and job satisfaction. Driver retention is a major challenge in the trucking industry, and when drivers feel appreciated, they are more likely to stay with their current employer – reducing costly turnover and preserving a company’s talent.
Companies that actively participate in Truck Driver Appreciation Week tend to have happier, more engaged employees. This culture of gratitude can improve driver buy-in, boost performance and make for a more cohesive workforce. In addition, recognizing drivers during this week plays a key role in attracting new talent to the industry. When prospective drivers see how their peers are appreciated and celebrated, they are more likely to view trucking as an appealing, respected career.
5 Ways Employers Can Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week
Companies large and small can implement creative ideas to show appreciation for their truck drivers. We’ve compiled a list of five easy ways to thank your drivers for their commitment to their role, their company and the communities they serve.
Thank You Messages
A written note thanking your drivers can go a long way. Consider sending out personalized thank you notes to drivers and their families for their sacrifices and dedication.
Free Meals
Provide free breakfast or lunch for your team. For drivers who are out on the road, you can give your employees free credit through meal delivery services such as Grubhub, which they can use for a meal of their choice from anywhere in the country.
Gifts
Practical gifts for truckers are a great way to show your appreciation. From electric blankets and coolers to Bluetooth headsets and shower kits – there are many items that can make life a little easier while on the road.
Giveaways
Giveaways are a fun way to engage your drivers and reward them for all of their hard work. You can offer different tiers of prizes in a raffle, or reward drivers who positively represent your brand and keep safety top of mind.
Discounts
Numerous trucking-related businesses and organizations are celebrating truck drivers with various forms of deals and recognition throughout the week (or even the entire month). Compile a list of these businesses and share their discounts with your drivers. You can also call local businesses and find out what discounts they may have to offer.
Take the Next Step in Improving Truck Driver Retention
Looking for more resources to help improve your driver retention rates and better engage your workforce? Download our checklist, “7 Effective Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Top-Notch Drivers.”
We discuss the significance of rewarding and recognizing drivers for their hard work and unwavering commitment to safety. We also dive into other essential strategies that are instrumental in retaining and nurturing a safety-minded team. Click the link below to grab your free copy!
