Celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2024
Without the estimated 3.5 million truck drivers that keep the U.S. moving, getting the goods and services we need each day would be next to impossible. That’s why we should be taking every opportunity to thank these truck drivers, and there’s no better time than National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. This week is meant to highlight the efforts of truck drivers and serve as a chance for gestures of appreciation when possible.
Let’s learn more about why this week is important, how you can show your support to drivers, and highlight what businesses are offering rewards for professional truck drivers.
What is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week?
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week was officially founded in 1998 by the American Trucking Association to celebrate all the hard work and accomplishments of truck drivers. The event typically occurs each September. In 2024, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is from September 15th to 21st.
Why is Truck Driver Appreciation Week Important?
This week takes extra care to showcase the work truck drivers put in every day to transport essential goods like medicine, food, machinery, and more. Truck driving can be underappreciated, despite it being one of the most essential jobs to keep our supply chains moving. Nearly every consumer and business relies on truck drivers to deliver freight on time and damage-free each day, so everyone should be taking the time to thank a truck driver this week!
What Can I Do to Celebrate Truck Drivers This Week?
Say Thanks: This simple act can go a long way. If you spot a truck driver, be sure to tell them thank you for the great work that they do!
Show Gratitude on Social Media: If you’re an individual or business that depends on truck drivers, giving a shout out on social media can make it easier to get your message to more drivers and make others aware of Driver Appreciation Week. Share your thanks or a story about a truck driver you know; you can even include the official hashtag in your caption, #NTDAW24.
Attend Driver Appreciation Week Events: Do your research and see if any transportation companies or organizations are holding events near you. Many will host free lunches, charity drives, or giveaways for truck drivers in the area and could use donations or volunteers! Even just making an in-person appearance can show you care.
Offer Discounts or Host an Event: For businesses in a position to do so, hosting an event for drivers in your area can be a great way to show your appreciation! You could host a banquet, raffle, parade, donation drive, cookout, or any other activity that lets drivers relax and feel appreciated for their work. Another simple way retailers can show support is offering trucker-exclusive discounts or freebies for drivers who visit during Driver Appreciation Week.
Where Can Drivers Find Driver Appreciation Week Promos?
If you’re a driver and find yourself at one of these truck stop chains, be sure to redeem the deals and bonuses available to you! Local truck stops may also be holding events and giveaways throughout the month.
Pilot/Flying J: Using the myRewards app, drivers will be able to redeem three free drinks per week and receive special discounts on products. They are also hosting a Road Warrior contest where deserving truck drivers are nominated to receive cash prizes.
Love’s: Drivers with the My Love Rewards app can earn double points in September, which can be spent on free food, drinks, showers, and more. Drivers can also get a discounted wash, utilize weekly food discounts, and get freebies like hats with certain purchases. Check the app each week for a full list of deals.
TA/Petro: Drivers who visit a participating TA/Petro location can attend events like cookouts, cornhole tournaments, free window washes, and more. Some locations will also offer freebies like goodie bags and coupons.
No matter how big or small your gesture is, any show of thanks is appreciated during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week! Be sure to remember what contributions our nation’s truckers make, this week and beyond. At Melton, we celebrate our drivers with themed contests, giveaways, free lunches, and more. Thank you to all of our drivers for all the excellent work you do!