As fleets seek ways to reduce high trucker turnover, a survey shows that pay is important, but drivers cite three other “major sources of frustration,” including broken promises, unclear pay structures, and lack of transparency.
Those results come from the “Driver Experience Report” survey of 1,100 commercial drivers provided by San Diego-based Platform Science, a provider of connected vehicle technologies.
“As an industry, we talk a lot about drivers, but far less often do we hear directly from them at scale. This report changes that,” Michael Bray, chief commercial officer of Platform Science, said in a release. “More than 1,100 drivers told us—clearly and candidly—what matters most. The message is consistent: pay matters, but so does trust, communication, and technology that actually works.”
Additional findings from the report showed:
- Technology is not a neutral factor: While more than half of respondents (52%) say technology influences their decision to stay with or leave a fleet, drivers are sharply divided on its impact: 53% say technology makes their job harder, while 47% say it makes their job easier. Poorly implemented tools – too many apps, confusing workflows, unreliable equipment, or unclear policies – can actively push drivers to consider other options.
- Safety and equipment matter deeply: Reliable equipment, consistently functioning technology, and streamlined safety workflows contribute directly to both confidence behind the wheel and long-term driver loyalty.
- Communication and respect boost driver retention: Drivers emphasized the importance of honest, consistent communication between drivers, dispatch, and leadership, as well as mutual respect across the organization. Feeling informed rather than surprised is tied closely to job satisfaction.
