Technology | Around the Industry | Leasing & Rental
December 14, 2023
Improving Driver Retention Through Quality Trucks with PacLease
By Ben Mueller, PACCAR Leasing Company (PacLease)
Millions of truck drivers across the country spend up to 11 hours a day transporting freight and delivering goods. With 72.6% of the nation’s freight transported by trucks, truck drivers hold a vital job, moving $940.8 billion in gross freight revenue last year, and paying $29.12 billion in federal and state fuel taxes. The trucking industry is crucial to our economy. Without truck drivers, the flow of goods across the country would be impossible. Yet, we find ourselves amidst a shortage. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), the trucking industry may need up to 160,000 drivers by 2028 if trends continue. Adding to the issue is recent data showing that driver-turnover rates are around 78%.
One of the biggest causes of the current shortage is an aging workforce. According to the NTI, retirement accounts for 54% of the current driver shortage. As more drivers get closer to retirement age, the industry is struggling to attract a younger demographic. The Commercial Carrier Journal reports that this generation of younger drivers is tech-savvy. What they really want in their trucks are built-in CB radios, hands-free calling, dashcams, mobile applications, integrated GPS, and plug-and-play features. Offering modern in-cab technology is therefore a good way for fleets to attract and retain the younger demographic as the workforce changes. However, many fleets don’t own or can’t afford to invest in newer technology. This is where commercial truck rental and leasing comes in. By working with PacLease, fleets can support their efforts to hire and retain younger drivers by incorporating the latest Kenworth and Peterbilt truck models with the newest in-cab technologies through the rental and full-service leasing program.
Health concerns in the workplace are another factor contributing to driver turnover. According to the National Institutes of Health, truck drivers experience a higher rate of illness and injury than drivers in any other driving occupation. Long-haul truck drivers are subject to an even higher level of ergonomic strain, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries. Poor posture caused by uncomfortable seats and inadequate lumbar support can increase discomfort and the risk of injury. At PacLease, we have the latest offering of trucks equipped with air ride technology for the most comfortable ride, premium seats that provide drivers unparalleled comfort, ergonomic support and some of the best ingress/egress in the industry. Our goal is for drivers to feel secure in the knowledge that they are operating a safe, comfortable, and reliable truck that will reduce stress and reinforce a positive work ethic.
Drivers want dependability, quality, and safety to help further reinforce a positive work environment. A reduction in blind spots, larger windshields, quieter cabs, and safety features such as lane departure, collision mitigation, and adaptive cruise control are all preferred. Premium Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks are built with high-quality parts, rigorously designed, and tested to create the most enjoyable driver experience to better increase driver satisfaction and retain drivers.
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