How to Retain CDL-A Truck Drivers During the Holidays + Bonus Ideas

December 3, 2024

The holiday season is a magical time, filled with joy, family gatherings, and the hustle to prepare for celebrations. But for CDL-A drivers, this season can often feel less like a celebration and more like an endurance test. Long hours, navigating icy roads, and time away from family make this period particularly tough for truckers.

For trucking companies, this presents a unique challenge. How do you keep drivers motivated, loyal, and satisfied while managing the increased demands of the season? The answer lies in thoughtful gestures that bring a little holiday cheer. Bonuses, flexible schedules, and genuine appreciation can make a significant impact on driver retention and morale during this time.

Why the Holidays Are Challenging for Truck Drivers

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for truckers. Freight demands are at their peak, winter weather complicates routes, and the emotional toll of being away from family adds to the stress.

Common Holiday Challenges for Truck Drivers:

Separation from Family: Missing family traditions and milestones can be tough for drivers during this season.
Increased Workload: The rush to meet holiday delivery deadlines leads to longer hours and tighter schedules.
Winter Driving Hazards: Navigating icy roads and unpredictable weather adds a layer of stress and danger.

Understanding these challenges is the first step in addressing them effectively.

Offer Holiday Bonuses to Show Appreciation

Offering holiday bonuses isn’t just about money. They symbolize appreciation and recognition. For many drivers, knowing their sacrifices are seen and valued makes all the difference. A $500 bonus can feel like a holiday gift, not just a financial boost.

The holiday season is expensive for everyone. Drivers have gifts to buy and family gatherings to plan. A financial bonus can ease the burden, letting them focus on what matters most. Even smaller bonuses, like gift cards, can go a long way in showing drivers that you care.

Types of Bonuses That Work:

Holiday Retention Bonuses: Reward drivers who commit to working through the holiday rush with a flat bonus.
Performance-Based Bonuses: Offer extra pay for achievements like on-time deliveries, safe driving records, or completing a set number of miles.
Gift Cards or Cash Incentives: Small, thoughtful bonuses such as fuel cards or grocery store vouchers can make a big difference.

Pro Tip: Announce bonuses early in the season and distribute them before key holidays like Christmas. This helps drivers plan their expenses and feel appreciated during the holidays.

Provide Flexible Scheduling Options

If there’s one thing drivers value more than bonuses, it’s time with family. Flexible scheduling during the holidays is one of the most appreciated gestures. It allows drivers to take part in family traditions, like decorating the tree or attending a holiday dinner.

How Companies Can Provide Flexibility

Shorter Routes: Offer drivers routes that keep them closer to home.
Extra Paid Time Off: Incentivize drivers with additional PTO for completing their hauls early.
Shift Swapping: Allow drivers to swap shifts to accommodate personal schedules.

Why It Matters: Drivers who feel their personal needs are respected are more likely to stay loyal to your company.

Make Drivers Feel Valued

Recognition doesn’t have to cost a lot. A heartfelt “thank you” or a shoutout in a company newsletter can make drivers feel appreciated. Highlighting their achievements, like safe driving records or milestones, builds a sense of pride and belonging.

Ideas for Recognition Programs:

Create a “Driver of the Month” award for the holiday season.
Host a holiday lunch or dinner to honor your drivers.
Send out handwritten thank-you notes to each driver, acknowledging their contributions.

Make Life on the Road Easier

While bonuses and recognition programs are great, small perks can make the day-to-day life of a driver better. Consider providing items that improve comfort during long hauls, especially in winter.

Popular Perks for Drivers:

Fuel Cards: Cover a portion of their fuel costs during the holidays.
Winter Equipment: Heated blankets or gloves can make long drives more comfortable.
Meal Discounts: Partner with truck stops to offer drivers discounts during the holidays.

Why It Matters: Showing concern for your drivers’ comfort and safety demonstrates that you care about their well-being beyond their job performance.

Use Bonuses to Attract New Drivers

Recruiting new drivers during the holiday season can be competitive. Offering sign-on bonuses specifically for this time of year can set your company apart. Advertise these bonuses in your job postings and social media to catch the attention of potential recruits.

Referral Bonuses:

Your current drivers can be your best recruiters. Encourage them to refer friends by offering referral bonuses. A holiday-themed referral bonus, like an extra $250, can motivate your team to bring in new talent.

Include Drivers’ Families in the Celebration

Drivers often feel torn between work and family during the holidays. Acknowledging their families can show that your company values the people who support your drivers at home.

Family-Inclusive Gestures:

Send small gifts to drivers’ families, like toys for their kids or meal vouchers.
Host a holiday event where drivers can bring their families for food, games, and presents.
Create a video message from management thanking drivers and their loved ones for their sacrifices.

Why It Matters: Acknowledging the role families play in supporting your drivers creates goodwill and builds loyalty.

Extend the Holiday Cheer into the New Year

The holiday season doesn’t end on December 25th. Retention efforts should carry into the New Year to maintain momentum and loyalty.

Ideas for Post-Holiday Engagement:

Year-End Bonuses: Reward drivers for their contributions throughout the year.
New Year Goals: Set achievable performance goals for January and incentivize them with bonuses.
Ongoing Recognition: Continue highlighting drivers’ efforts into the new year to show consistent appreciation.

Why It Matters: A smooth transition into the new year helps drivers feel supported and motivated beyond the holiday rush.

Keeping CDL-A drivers happy during the holidays is about more than meeting quotas or filling routes—it’s about building a culture of appreciation and respect. By offering bonuses, flexible schedules, recognition, and family-inclusive efforts, you can ensure your drivers feel valued during the most demanding time of the year.

At Truckers Flow, we understand the importance of driver retention and morale. Whether you’re planning holiday incentives or crafting appreciation campaigns, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

This holiday season, let’s work together to spread cheer and keep your drivers motivated for the long haul.