Fleets try to give drivers the comforts of home.

Two years ago, CFI managers began a monthly forum with drivers to discuss any issues and decisions affecting their jobs. To date, more than 700 drivers have participated in helping direct the company – particularly with regard to driver retention strategies.

“There are a lot of little things that make a difference,” says Herb Schmidt, president and chief executive officer of the Joplin, Mo.-based truckload carrier. “The way we’ve approached retention is with that in mind.”

One of the “little things” drivers suggested was satellite radio. CFI now equips all of its vehicles with XM Satellite Radio and pays for the subscription. In July, when Con-way acquired CFI, Schmidt became president of the new organization. He immediately extended the same benefit to all Con-Way drivers in the new CFI/Con-Way Truckload organization that operates 2,700 tractors throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.

“The positive reaction has been a little shocking,” Schmidt says. “I’ve been amazed at the traction we got from that. The rest of our drivers had it, but they take it for granted now. I’d forgotten how big of a package it was.”

CFI/Con-Way Truckload also equips its tractors with a diesel-fired heating system for driver comfort, and Schmidt also is considering adding battery-powered cooling and electrical systems. And if drivers want to install their own power inverters, coffee makers, refrigerators and other in-cab conveniences and amenities, CFI leverages its buying power to sell these items to drivers at cost.

Hours-of-service rules, strict anti-idling regulations and extended time away from home are among the many retention challenges that are driving some fleets to provide more comfort, convenience and entertainment in-cab options to their drivers. Consider that for most of your drivers, their trucks are what they think of as their place of work. An “office” that is comfortable as well as productive is, for many fleets, an important retention tool. (For productivity enhancements, see “Offices on wheels,” November 2007.)