During the Memorial Day weekend, The Drive covered a proposal currently navigating through Congress. A set of initiatives within the Build America 250 Bill referred to as the “Trucker Dignity” package aims to establish a sort of bill of rights for truckers, ensuring fundamental needs such as restroom access at loading and unloading locations. It’s not extravagant, and honestly, you might not realize such a measure is necessary. Yet, it is.
Typically, we conclude our stories by encouraging the submission of news tips; however, with stories like this, we felt it was more appropriate to inquire of the truck drivers in our audience regarding their thoughts on the matter. After all, who is better positioned to express the needs of America’s freight drivers than those who are actually behind the wheel?
Well, they responded. By the time this follow-up was issued, we had received nearly 150 comments on the story itself (not to mention countless more on social media), along with a few dozen emails. Despite the volume of feedback, you’ll find that most remarks fell into just a handful of categories. Since you can’t see the direct emails we received, we thought we’d share them here to enrich the conversation. Let’s dive in:
Author’s note: All content appears in its original form except where expletives were censored or private details were removed. Some excerpts come from longer emails.
“Claude” shares:
I’m a driver who operates a range of commercial vehicles, including trucks. I’m preparing to get back on the road in a couple of days. I know for certain that some of these shippers are going to misuse this funding. They already plan to pocket the thousands of dollars from the government and use the disgusting, smelly, row of port-a-potties at the far end of their property.
The parking lots will be dirt or gravel, lacking sufficient lighting, electricity, or clean permanent showers. The shippers and others receiving this money must have regular inspections enforced on their properties and facilities. They will decrease and diminish the quality as soon as they can.
“Fast Wolf” has straightforward needs:
Transparency from brokers regarding freight rates
Meanwhile, “Rex” points out that the middlemen profit at both ends:
I worked for [Redacted] trucking in Oklahoma that leased trucks and took 20% of the fuel surcharge. They didn’t inform the drivers about this until orientation, at least our group. They provided us with WEX fuel cards that offered no discounts on fuel, which was also curious. (WEX & Comdata provide some of the biggest discounts) The drivers had to cover all the fuel and DEF, deducted from our pay at the week’s end. I suspect the company kept the discounts for themselves as well. I was with them for 6 months before departing. In my 33 years in trucking, I never encountered this issue before. I later found out other carriers were doing the same to their drivers. I haven’t seen any trucking forums discussing this scam, but I am aware it’s more widespread than we realize. Someone needs to investigate and potentially put a stop to this. Whoever pays for the fuel should get the surcharges and available discounts; this should be the law!
Now here comes a twist in the ongoing emissions deregulation debate: State regulations on DEF are complicating matters right now, “Eddie” states:
I agree with all that Congress is proposing. However, if DEF is removed from trucks in certain states and areas, they won’t be able to idle their large engines for heating or AC.
Not all trucks or trucking companies can afford to install auxiliary power units (APU) on their vehicles. The APU provides heat and AC inside the cab and sleeper. They also keep the truck batteries charged and can supply the driver with 110v for a TV, microwave, etc. I’m concerned that states like CA will not permit trucks to enter without a functioning DPF filter.
“Joshua” had a lot to convey. Here’s a portion:
I’m not entirely sure if this will yield any results. But I’ll pass it along anyway with high hopes. I have been driving for 16 years, so I have a bit of experience along with some education. And perhaps a touch of common sense, although I’m still hesitant about that last point. There are many laws and regulations in place. Unfortunately, those who create these rules governing the trucking community have spent no time behind the wheel or at the loading/unloading sites.
The traffic in a car is vastly different from that in a semi truck. The extended hours, solitary weeks, the places and individuals who look down upon or treat truckers poorly. We are out here for specific reasons. Over time, this all begins to blend together. Complaining doesn’t change anything. No one cares or will listen to us. It’s essential to hear from the ones truly affected. Pay varies; some companies compensate fairly, while others don’t. That’s common across the board. But if I operate outside of the regulations, I can earn significantly more.
Taxes are burdensome. I express this because handling taxes like that is challenging for me, and it costs a significant amount to keep the IRS at bay with the deductions we’re supposed to receive.
“Joshua” was not the first, last, or only one to mention parking. Let’s give “el brown” a chance to share (another excerpt):
Truckers are constantly operating under time constraints. Given this, there should be regulations mandating companies to offer parking after on their premises if loading or unloading consumes their driving or working hours.
It’s unjust to hold a driver for 5/6 hours and then insist they must leave, especially when within 4/5 hours they could have a full 10-hour break to reset their hours back to a full 14 hours.
Particularly when truck parking is 2 hours away or adverse weather makes driving hazardous.
“George” remarks:
I believe that all truck stops should eliminate paid parking, as we spend extensive amounts of money on their fuel, food, and supplies. I believe we’re being robbed while the CEOs grow wealthier off us.
And “Lamar” states:
In major cities where parking isn’t complimentary, why can’t trucking companies cover the parking expenses?
There’s also this note from “Ruben,” who mentions the declining situation for American truckers over the decades:
I’m a driver with 21 years of experience. I’m unsure where this will go, but I hope you explore it further. When I began driving, I spoke with an old-timer who had been in the industry for over 20 years before me. So we’re referring to the 80s. The rates have not improved and have actually gotten worse. That’s my initial point.
Secondly, many truck stops that formerly didn’t charge for parking are now installing gates to charge us for entry or require a minimum purchase of $50 or a fill-up of over 300 gallons. Mind you, they didn’t implement such measures before. Hence, we owner-operators are getting taken advantage of. The RATES decline, truck stops charge us to rest, and we pay more to support our families.
The limited free parking that remains for truckers isn’t necessarily safe, “Orlando” writes:
A driver transporting cars in Florida was hijacked and killed; perhaps it should be required to have 2 or 3 security guards at all truck and rest stops.
“Don” had much more to express beyond this, but his remarks on parking aligned with another prevalent concern: restroom access.
The costs of showers and parking have become outrageous these days. Most charge $20+ each. If a driver pays for parking and a shower daily, that totals $40+. Multiply that over a week (5 to 7 days) and it comes to a minimum of $200 weekly. Some drivers opt to take just one shower weekly due to these expenses. I say ‘opt’ but it’s more like they cannot afford to take more than one.
Subpar facilities aren’t always due to businesses being stingy. Sometimes it stems from government policies, “Alfred” writes:
I was delivering at Nash food distribution, which took an inordinate amount of time and prevented drivers from using restrooms. They are military contractors, and as a veteran, I was treated worse there than by any other shipper or receiver in the US, Canada, or Mexico. I vowed never to return. Those requirements should be included in their contracts or they should be banned from government contracting.
Next, let’s discuss hours and compensation. Here’s “Lee” to begin:
I’ve been a driver for 28 years, with 21 years at my current company. They exploit the 8-day/70-hour rule. Due to the size of the company, it operates multiple accounts 24/7. They apply the 70-hour rule to my account. Our routes often last 13.5 to 14 hours per day.
Many of our suppliers do not allow us to use the restroom or even enter the facility at all. And after 40 hours, our pay does not increase, unlike for the majority of the workforce.
I am compelled to work over 40 hours weekly for standard pay. This renders truckers the most discriminated group in America! We aren’t considered human enough to use a restroom or earn overtime pay after 40 hours.
“Memmen Trucking” states:
I couldn’t care less about the restroom situation. Every over-the-road driver has ample space in the truck behind a curtain to manage it. What frustrates me is the continual addition of paid parking at truck stops, while shippers provide no parking beyond pickups and drop-offs.
And what’s up with constructing pot shops adjacent to truck stops? I’ve noticed this on several occasions. What the heck is wrong with people? A failed drug test can jeopardize a driver’s career. Why would they allow a cannabis store so close to us in the first place? That’s plain foolish!
“Don” has a suggestion:
Drivers should receive time and a half. I work 120 to 140 hours every two weeks but only get straight pay. I often work 10 to 14-hour days, sometimes 5 to 6 days a week. Why are drivers treated like second-class workers? I am nearing 40 years of driving experience with a clean record hauling hazardous materials.
And “Gary” adds:
Truckers need to be reinstated their per diem. It significantly impacts a trucker’s income.
A contributor known only as “Health Coach” encapsulates it well:
The compensation does not reflect the labor and time invested. Most drivers earn pay only when the wheels turn, yet we spend a total of 168 hours over a week within our trucks around them, refueling, grabbing meals, showering, and interacting in shipping and receiving offices.
I realize I won’t become wealthy driving trucks; there are benefits, though, that come with being a trucker. There’s considerable freedom on the open road and interesting people and places encountered during your travels. The pay isn’t the worst, but I know it has the potential to be significantly better.
There’s plenty to unpack here, but it certainly appears the majority of truckers desire three fundamental things: a secure place to park, a clean place to relieve themselves, and sufficient income to make it worthwhile when they inevitably fall short on the other two.
Seems quite reasonable when phrased this way, doesn’t it?
Thank you for your insightful contributions! You can always contact us at [email protected] or reach out to the author directly at [email protected].
**Recognition and Respect Sought by America’s Truck Drivers**
In the expansive realm of the American economy, truck drivers hold a crucial position, acting as the foundation of the supply chain. Despite their essential contributions, many drivers feel unappreciated and are calling for increased recognition and respect within their field.
**Cornerstone of the Economy**
Truck drivers are tasked with the transportation of around 70% of all freight across the United States. This encompasses everything from food and consumer items to industrial products. The trucking sector employs millions of people, rendering it one of the largest industries in the nation. However, the vital nature of their work is frequently overlooked.
**Difficulties Encountered by Truck Drivers**
Truck drivers face a multitude of challenges that fuel their desire for recognition. Extensive hours spent driving, time away from family, and the physical rigors of the job can result in exhaustion and mental health concerns. Additionally, the industry is currently experiencing a notable driver shortage, a situation worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This shortfall has underscored the urgent need for enhanced working conditions and compensation.
**Advocacy for Respect and Acknowledgment**
Numerous truck drivers are campaigning for better working conditions, equitable salaries, and benefits. Organizations and advocacy groups have surfaced to lend support to drivers in their pursuit of respect. They stress the significance of regarding truck driving as a skilled profession requiring training, commitment, and expertise.
Initiatives aimed at raising awareness include campaigns that spotlight the contributions of truck drivers, particularly during periods of crisis, such as the pandemic when they ensured the shipment of essential items. Social media has emerged as a potent platform for drivers to narrate their experiences and push for change.
**Legislative Initiatives**
In light of the trials faced by truck drivers, some lawmakers are beginning to take notice. Proposed legislation seeks to tackle issues like driver pay, working conditions, and training regulations. These initiatives aim to cultivate a more sustainable and respectful environment for truck drivers, acknowledging their crucial role in the economy.
**Future of Truck Driving**
As the industry progresses with innovations in technology, such as automation and electric vehicles, the role of truck drivers may evolve. Nevertheless, the demand for skilled drivers will persist. Ensuring that truck drivers receive the acknowledgment and respect they deserve is vital for the profession’s future.
In summary, truck drivers in America are indispensable to the nation’s economy, yet they often grapple with challenges that impede their recognition and respect. As awareness increases and advocacy efforts progress, there is hope for a future in which truck drivers are celebrated for their contributions and afforded the working conditions they merit.