A survey of 500 U.S. truck drivers found 67% feel appreciated for the job they do. However, this sentiment is down from last year's high of 96% during the height of supply and transport challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conjunction with National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, taking place Sept. 11-17, trucking software provider Truckstop recently released those and other findings from new research on the benefits and challenges of the trucking profession.
Additionally, the survey found:
- 90% of the drivers surveyed said they use software/technology to assist with back office-related tasks
- 38% said they use a mobile app for load planning every day.
- 83% said they experience daily challenges with recent increases in fuel prices
- 74% said they are concerned about the pressure to work longer hours due to the driver shortage
- 67% think the pay levels are high enough to attract new drivers and keep veteran carriers from leaving
- 61% feel they are benefiting from the fluctuating spot market rates
- 68% do find it challenging to keep up with insurance-related matters (i.e. keeping insurance up to date) and changing industry regulations
- 26% said fluctuating spot market rates have impacted their revenue positively and they are making up to 24% more money
- 72% said they find factoring an efficient way to get paid.
For the second consecutive year, Truckstop is hosting truck driver appreciation booths at three Roady's truck stop locations/affiliates across the country. Truck drivers can stop by participating locations to receive free lunch, fuel gift cards, die-cast trucks and Truckstop branded merchandise while supplies last. The booths schedule includes:
- Monday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fontana Truck Stop, 14264 Valley Blvd., Fontana, California
- Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the On the Run Travel Center, 10026 South Eisenman Road, Boise, Idaho
- Friday, Sept. 16 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Baker Truck Corrall, 515 Campbell St., Baker City, Oregon
