7 Things CDL Truck Drivers Want

Let’s face it, recruiters have their work cut out for them. With so many trucking companies and fleets to choose from, it’s a challenge to stand out and attract the attention of job prospects. At Drive My Way, we understand the importance of getting it right. Here are seven factors that many drivers consider when deciding where to work.

1. Pay

Well, well, well, no surprises here. Type and amount of pay is the number one reason why CDL truck drivers consider a job. And many drivers say this as their top priority. Truckers have a keen eye for a bad deal, so if your company is offering them less than the industry average, they’ll be understandably skeptical. Apart from salary, drivers also look for opportunities for raises, bonuses, and overtime rates. And if they’re driving specialty or unusual hauls which are more dangerous, they’ll expect those to pay better. So, if your company isn’t paying drivers competitively, they’ll have no qualms about hopping over to one that does.

2. Health Insurance

When it comes to choosing a CDL job, drivers don’t just consider the paycheck. A comprehensive benefits package, especially health insurance, is highly valued. Healthcare costs have risen dramatically in recent years, and drivers want coverage that meets their specific health needs. For those with families, ensuring that everyone is covered, especially for specific health concerns, is a top priority. Offering a range of insurance options with balanced factors like deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance costs can help drivers find the best fit for their needs..

3. Retirement Plans

Retirement plans are a crucial consideration for CDL truck drivers when deciding where to work. With the average age of truck drivers being 49, many are only two decades away from retirement. Even younger drivers are proactive and start planning for their retirement sooner rather than later. In fact, retirement plans are a top factor for drivers when applying for a new CDL job.

However, many employers fail to enroll their staff in a default retirement plan, leaving drivers and other staff overwhelmed with making those decisions. To make the process easier for drivers, have an automatic opt-in policy with the option to opt-out or choose a different plan. Drivers understand the importance of saving for retirement, and showing them that you care about their future will make your company stand out in their minds.

4. Type of Run/Range

Trucker jobs come in various shapes and sizes. One of the most significant factors that differentiate them is the type of run and range that they offer. Not all drivers are interested in coast-to-coast travel. Certain drivers might prefer over-the-road (OTR) work. However, since OTR drivers spend less time at home and live out of their truck, they expect better compensation. Other drivers might like local or regional runs. It’s essential to understand your driver candidate’s preferences regarding the types of runs and ranges they’re interested in covering.

5. Type of Schedule and Paid Time-Off

When it comes to finding the right CDL trucking job, home time is a top priority many drivers. After all, the average driver works a grueling 70 hours a week and can go up to 8 days without taking a break. This tough schedule is especially challenging for drivers with families and children. While truckers understand that the job requires some sacrifices, they hope that these sacrifices aren’t unbearable. If a job’s schedule and PTO package don’t meet their needs, they won’t hesitate to explore other options..

6. Training and Development

Truck drivers may have some experience behind the wheel, but they value actual training and development opportunities. Providing company training and orientation can make drivers feel comfortable and foster a sense of belonging with the company. Research shows that employees who feel trained and groomed by the company are more loyal to that company. Professional development opportunities are becoming increasingly important to drivers. Making training and development a core part of HR operations can help recruiters make a strong case for drivers to work and remain with the company for many years.

7. Type of Haul

When it comes to choosing a CDL job, drivers frequently consider the type of haul as an important factor. Don’t underestimate the value of taking into account driver preferences and specializations in hauls, as this can lead to under-utilization of their skills. Keep in mind that certain hauls require special CDL endorsements or permits, so make sure your drivers are equipped with these. If they already have the necessary certifications, placement becomes all the more straightforward. It can be a challenge to determine which hauls should be assigned to which drivers, but asking about their skills and interests can make the process easier.