How to Retain Truck Drivers: Actionable Solutions for Companies, Owner-Operators, and Drivers
The trucking industry is facing a significant driver retention challenge, with many companies struggling to keep drivers on board. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the industry faced a shortage of approximately 80,000 drivers by 2023, with this number projected to increase if companies don’t address key issues driving workers away.
Retaining drivers is critical not only for company stability but also for profitability across the supply chain. Solutions require a joint effort between trucking companies, owner-operators, and company drivers themselves.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how companies can implement changes to retain drivers, how owner-operators can contribute to a better trucking environment, how company drivers can advocate for improvements, and how these changes can enhance profitability for all involved.
1. How Companies Can Improve Driver Retention
The responsibility for improving driver retention largely falls on trucking companies. Research shows that many drivers leave due to broken promises, long hours away from home, and inconsistent pay. Here are some actionable steps companies can take:
a. Offer Competitive and Consistent Pay
One of the biggest reasons drivers leave is due to inconsistent or insufficient pay. Companies should offer competitive wages that align with industry standards and ensure that drivers are paid fairly for all their work, including downtime during loading/unloading or delays. Implementing guaranteed minimum pay can also provide drivers with financial stability, particularly during periods of low freight availability.
b. Prioritize Hometime and Work-Life Balance
A major complaint from drivers is the lack of regular hometime. Companies that offer more predictable schedules or flexible options for drivers to spend time with their families will find it easier to retain them. Implementing regional routes or options for drivers to choose routes that best suit their needs can go a long way toward building loyalty.
c. Improve Communication and Transparency
A study by WorkHound found that poor communication is a leading reason drivers leave a company. Dispatchers and management should have open lines of communication with drivers, listening to their concerns and acting on feedback. Transparency in load assignments, delays, and scheduling changes fosters trust and ensures drivers feel valued.
d. Create Career Development Opportunities
Drivers are more likely to stay with a company if they see opportunities for growth. Offering additional training programs, leadership development, or pathways into roles like dispatching or fleet management helps drivers envision a long-term career within the company.
2. How Owner-Operators Can Contribute to Driver Retention
Owner-operators are independent contractors who play a significant role in the trucking ecosystem. While they don’t have direct employees, they can contribute to improving driver retention by creating a positive environment for those they work with.
a. Build Strong Relationships with Drivers and Brokers
Owner-operators often collaborate with company drivers, brokers, and other stakeholders in the industry. Building strong, professional relationships helps create a collaborative and positive atmosphere. Clear communication and mutual respect go a long way in improving job satisfaction.
b. Advocate for Fair Rates
Owner-operators can push for better rates by understanding market conditions and negotiating pay that covers their costs while ensuring profitability. By advocating for fair compensation, they set a standard that trickles down through the industry, promoting better conditions for all drivers.
c. Provide Mentorship for New Drivers
Owner-operators with years of experience can offer guidance to new drivers entering the industry. Mentoring helps new drivers understand how to navigate challenges like work-life balance, managing schedules, and negotiating pay. This creates a more welcoming and supportive environment that encourages drivers to stay.
3. How Company Drivers Can Help Improve Retention
While company drivers don’t always have control over management decisions, they can still advocate for better working conditions and help foster a positive work environment.
a. Communicate Clearly and Professionally
Drivers should communicate their concerns to management in a clear and professional manner. Whether it’s about hometime, pay, or working conditions, providing feedback helps management understand the issues on the ground. Open communication can lead to positive changes that benefit everyone.
b. Promote Safety and Reliability
By prioritizing safety and reliability, drivers can strengthen their relationship with their employers. Companies are more likely to invest in and retain drivers who maintain high standards for safety and consistently meet deadlines. A strong performance record gives drivers leverage when advocating for better pay or schedules.
c. Participate in Feedback Programs
Many companies offer surveys or feedback programs to understand driver satisfaction. Company drivers should actively participate in these initiatives, providing honest feedback that helps management identify areas for improvement.
4. How Improving Retention Boosts Profits for Everyone
High turnover rates are costly for trucking companies. According to a study by Stay Metrics, driver turnover can cost companies between $8,200 and $20,729 per driver . This includes the costs of recruiting, training, and lost productivity during the transition period. By investing in retention strategies, companies can reduce these costs and see substantial financial benefits.
a. Reduced Recruitment Costs
When companies retain drivers, they avoid the high costs associated with constant recruitment. Retaining experienced drivers also reduces the need for costly training programs, as long-term employees are more efficient and productive on the road.
b. Increased Productivity
Drivers who are satisfied with their working conditions are more likely to stay focused, maintain better safety records, and complete deliveries on time. This increased productivity directly impacts profitability by reducing delays, accidents, and errors in the supply chain.
c. Better Relationships with Shippers and Clients
Companies with stable, reliable drivers develop better relationships with shippers and clients. These relationships can lead to more contracts, better rates, and long-term partnerships that benefit everyone in the supply chain.
d. Higher Driver Satisfaction Leads to Industry-Wide Stability
When drivers feel respected and well-compensated, they are more likely to stay in the industry long-term. This benefits the entire trucking ecosystem, reducing shortages and improving overall efficiency.
Improving driver retention is not only essential for keeping trucks on the road but also for increasing profits across the entire trucking industry. Companies must prioritize pay, hometime, communication, and career development. Owner-operators can foster positive relationships and advocate for fair compensation, while company drivers can help by promoting safety and providing feedback.
By working together, all stakeholders in the trucking industry can build a more sustainable, profitable future.
Sources
American Trucking Associations, “Truck Driver Shortage Analysis 2023.”
Transport Topics, “Driver Shortage: Causes and Solutions.”
WorkHound, “Why Truck Drivers Leave: Key Findings.”
Stay Metrics, “The Cost of Driver Turnover in the Trucking Industry.”
Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Occupational Outlook for Truck Drivers.”
Stay Metrics, “Driver Retention Research and Solutions.”