How To Reduce Driver Turnover Rates in Trucking

The trucking industry faces a consistent challenge — a high driver turnover rate. Losing experienced drivers can cost companies $6,000 to $12,000 to hire new drivers, will disrupt operations and productivity, and can have a negative impact on your bottom line. But by adopting new strategies and leveraging innovative technology like a high-quality Transportation Management System (TMS), you can combat this issue and build a happier workforce.

Learn more about how to reduce driver turnover rates in trucking with this quick guide created by the TransPlus Team. 

Why Is the Driver Turnover Rate High in Trucking?

High driver turnover rates plague the trucking industry, creating a constant struggle to attract and retain qualified drivers. There is a confluence of factors that contribute to this challenge, including demanding work schedules, pay and benefits discrepancies, an aging workforce, and a work environment that can be stressful. Here is a better look at the factors that impact driver turnover and retention.

• Demanding Work Schedules — Long hours, time away from home, unpredictable schedules, and a strained work-life balance can lead to burnout for drivers.
• Pay and Benefits Discrepancies — The trucking industry is a competitive one and experienced drivers may be lured away by competitors offering slightly higher pay or more attractive benefits packages.
• Aging Workforce —  Experienced drivers are retiring at a faster rate than new drivers are entering the field, creating a shortage and increased competition for qualified individuals. The average age of truck drivers in the United States is 46 and the average age of drivers in Canada is 49 with 32% of Canadian drivers age 55 or older.‍
• Stressful Work Environment — Traffic congestion, challenging routes, and strict compliance regulations can contribute to driver stress and fatigue that lead to drivers leaving the job.

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Top 5 Ways to Improve Driver Retention and Reduce Turnover

Reducing driver turnover and improving retention is crucial for maintaining a stable workforce, upgrading efficiency, and improving your profit margins. Here are five effective strategies to not only reduce driver turnover but also help you build an experienced team of drivers:

1. Use a TMS with Route Planning

A TMS with advanced route planning capabilities — like TransPlus TMS — can optimize routes, minimize delays, and reduce driver stress. This not only helps improve efficiency, it allows drivers to complete their routes more quickly and potentially earn more money.

2. Avoid Micromanaging Drivers

It is important to give drivers a sense of autonomy and demonstrate your trust in them by avoiding micromanagement. By employing technology like mobile TMS driver apps you can empower drivers with self-management tools, allow them to track their progress, help them better communicate with dispatchers, and better manage their schedules.

3. Provide Competitive Pay and Benefits

Competitive pay and benefits packages will always be a key method to attract and retain experienced drivers. This includes wages, health insurance, retirement plans, vacation time, and other perks that enhance driver well-being and job satisfaction.

4. Celebrate Driver Achievements

Recognize and reward drivers for their hard work and dedication. Implement a driver recognition program to acknowledge milestones, safe driving records, and outstanding performance. This fosters a sense of appreciation and value, boosts morale and encourages drivers to stay with your company.

5. Make Work-Life Balance a Priority

It is important to acknowledge the importance of a work-life balance for drivers. Driver schedules can be demanding and businesses that employ flexible scheduling options whenever possible, provide ample time off, and promote a culture that respects personal time and family commitments will improve driver retention.

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READ MORE: Top Trends Facing the Trucking Industry in 2025

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By implementing these strategies and leveraging technology like a TMS, you can learn how to reduce driver turnover in trucking, create a more driver-focused work environment, and build a stronger workforce. Contact TransPlus today to learn how our TMS solutions can help you improve driver retention and drive success in the trucking industry!

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