The trucking and logistics world is facing a major problem: not enough drivers. The American Trucking Association says the industry needs to hire about 1.1 million new drivers over the next ten years just to keep up with demand. This shortage is causing headaches for companies trying to keep deliveries on time and customers happy.
One of the biggest challenges is driver turnover. When drivers quit, especially during a route, it causes delays and can cost companies money and damage their reputation. While quitting mid-route doesn’t happen too often, drivers leaving the industry is very common. Eddie Dreyer, an underwriter at Central Insurance who works closely with trucking businesses, points out that drivers are central to a company’s success. The person behind the wheel matters just as much as the cargo they carry.
Drivers decide to leave for many reasons. Some find better pay, more convenient routes, or regular schedules elsewhere. Others get frustrated with their managers or feel they weren’t trained properly. Dreyer notes that companies with good onboarding and training, who hire experienced drivers and check their records carefully, tend to lose fewer drivers.
Losing drivers isn’t just a hassle—it’s expensive. Hiring new people means more recruiting and training costs. Plus, new drivers might not have the experience to handle expensive trucks and cargo safely. Dreyer recommends keeping drivers happy through fair pay, clear communication, and support. This approach costs less in the long run than replacing staff constantly.
From an insurance viewpoint, who’s driving matters a lot. Insurers look for companies with stable, experienced drivers and low turnover because they present less risk. Companies with high turnover and many inexperienced drivers can face higher insurance costs or limited coverage. “We prefer working with businesses that take care of their employees and keep them around a long time,” Dreyer says. Experienced drivers know the tricky parts of their routes and how to handle tough weather or intersections.
Technology is helping companies manage these risks. GPS systems track where trucks are and help with efficient rerouting. Beyond that, tools now monitor how drivers behave on the road—watching for speeding, harsh stops, or sharp turns—and use cameras to keep an eye on things. This data helps companies coach drivers to improve safety, reduce accidents, and protect themselves from false claims. When used fairly, drivers appreciate this technology, which can boost morale and help keep them on board.
But the culture at a company plays a huge role, too. Open communication, respect, and fair pay make drivers want to stay. Dreyer stresses that insurers look closely at a company’s culture when deciding on coverage. A positive workplace with low turnover signals fewer risks and better chances for good insurance terms.
Still, missing drivers is inevitable. Companies should have backup plans ready. This might mean training other staff to step in, having relief drivers on call, or using technology to quickly assign new routes. Preparing for these situations can keep deliveries on schedule and protect cargo.
One specific concern is when a driver leaves in the middle of a route. This leaves trucks and cargo unattended, creating opportunities for theft or damage. Dreyer highlights that this can lead to big losses beyond just a late delivery. Cargo insurance is key here. It protects businesses from financial blows if goods are stolen or damaged while in transit. Making sure the insurance coverage matches the value of the cargo helps companies recover and keep customers satisfied.
In the end, driver turnover is a tough challenge in transportation. It disrupts operations, adds costs, and increases risks. But with a good company culture, smart use of technology, and the right insurance, businesses can handle turnover better and keep moving forward.
Central Insurance supports trucking companies through this. They offer specialized coverage and work with local agents who know the industry well. Their team is ready to help when unexpected problems arise, providing quick responses and solutions to get trucks back on the road. If you run a trucking business and need insurance, speaking with a local Central agent could be a smart move to find the right coverage for your needs.