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Have you thanked a truck driver today?
In the United States, over 70% of the goods consumers rely on every single day are hauled by truck. Yet driving the wheels that keep our economy turning can often feel like a thankless job. We have all experienced the effects of supply chain disruptions in recent years, and the trucking industry is now in the midst of an ever-worsening driver shortage – the current 80,000 driver shortfall is expected to double by 2030.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is September 11-17 – here are some suggestions for ways to express some much-deserved gratitude at your business:
- Meals
Everyone loves food, especially when it is served up by the bosses. A boxed lunch for the road is also a great token of appreciation.
- Gifts
Sweepstakes and gift baskets to celebrate Driver Appreciation Week will show your drivers that they are valued at your company. Prizes can vary from fun electronics and gift cards to more practical items, such as tools, thermoses, and t-shirts.
- Truck Wash
Catch your drivers at the start of their day and offer a complimentary truck wash. It is always a good feeling to start your run with a sparkling clean rig!
- Thank You Cards
Remember, your drivers aren’t the only ones feeling the effects of their long hours, days, and weeks away from the comforts of home. Be sure to show your appreciation to their families as well by sending thank you cards to their home address.
- Ask Local Vendors to Get Involved
The entire community benefits from the hard work and dedication of your professional drivers – check with local truck stops, restaurants, and retail outlets to see if they’d like to contribute to your DAW gift baskets. Many are happy to offer discount coupons, and even free products such as t-shirts, coffee mugs, and small tools.
- Use Social Media
Nearly everyone is online these days, so make sure the world knows how much you appreciate your driver fleet by sharing pictures, videos, or even just a well-worded shout out.
- Don’t Limit Your Appreciation to One Week a Year
Meals, family holiday gatherings, and small tokens of appreciation like donuts and candy go a long way no matter what the calendar shows. After all, trucking never takes time off – and neither should our gratitude toward the men and women that keep us going.
