Sunday marks the 37th anniversary of Truck Driver Appreciation Week, when we recognize the important role truck drivers play in our lives and thank them for the work they do to ensure we get the products we want and need.
It’s fitting that a special week has been set aside each year to honor truck drivers and the work they do, but as fleet managers, we need to make sure we remind drivers just how important they are to our operation throughout the year.
There are a variety of ways we can do that.
It starts with the way we specify our vehicles. Fleets should be specifying their vehicles with both driver comfort and safety in mind. There are many options to choose from, so it shouldn’t be difficult to specify a truck that addresses both issues. It’s important to ensure that drivers are properly trained on how to use the various safety systems on their trucks. In addition, prior to ordering new equipment, talk to drivers about what they like and dislike about current specs and what their preferences are for new equipment. This is a good way to let drivers know that you value and welcome their input.
Making sure trucks are well maintained is another way to honor drivers. Preventive maintenance keeps trucks in good operating condition. Track your PM compliance to ensure all your trucks are being brought in for their regular PM service. In addition, make sure that technicians are paying close attention to Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs). Drivers need to know that you are taking their concerns seriously and having your service provider address issues they find during their pre- and post-trip inspections.
Tap experienced drivers to be mentors and advisors to new drivers. This will benefit both veteran drivers and newcomers. Veteran drivers will appreciate your recognition of their skills, and new drivers will appreciate the extra support.
Everyone likes to be acknowledged for their achievements. Have a program in place that recognizes drivers for various milestones, such as a certain number of accident-free miles or years of service to your fleet.
While it’s good to have special celebrations during Truck Driver Appreciation Week, don’t confine your celebration of this essential workforce to just one week. Make sure your drivers know how important they are to your fleet day in and day out.
