The driver shortage that for years has plagued the trucking industry shows few signs of slowing down. According to the American Trucking Associations nearly 79,000 positions are unfilled and that number is set to rise to 160,000 by 2030.
Truckers face long, grueling hours separated from their families, unpredictable schedules, high stress, and safety concerns. As a result, fleet managers are struggling to attract and retain the talent needed to keep goods moving, with turnover rates for long-haul carriers reaching as high as 90% in recent years.
The financial burden for fleets is significant. On average, replacing just one driver costs more than $8,200 when you take into account the cost of recruitment efforts, background checks, and onboarding new hires.
Addressing the truck driver shortage requires a broad strategy that includes competitive pay, strong training programs, and improving work-life balance. Deploying technology should likewise play a critical role in retention and recruitment efforts. Rugged, connected devices designed specifically for the demands of professional driving can support drivers in ways that improve safety, productivity, and job satisfaction.
A driver-friendly perk: One device for professional — and personal use
Juggling multiple devices can make a driver’s work that much more difficult. A driver might have one tablet for personal use during downtime and another for work-related tasks like GPS navigation, hours-of-service logging, and fleet communications.
Fleet managers can address this problem by offering drivers tablets that incorporate defense-grade security platforms. These tablets can then be used for both personal and professional tasks, while securely separating the two.
The upshot: Drivers can securely access company and personal apps all from the same tablet. The resulting convenience and flexibility make life on the road easier and more enjoyable.
Making the ride safer
There’s little doubt that safety ranks among the biggest concerns for truck drivers: A recent survey by Nationwide found that 70% of company drivers worry about being killed or hurt in a collision, or held liable for damages.
Rugged, mount-ready tablets can improve driver safety by reducing distractions and promoting safer driving practices. When secured in the cab, these devices provide drivers with hands-free access to information, helping prevent the risks associated with loose or handheld electronics.
Paired with fleet management software, tablets can deliver GPS truck navigation and optimized routing, enabling drivers to avoid unsafe detours, hazardous roads, and low-clearance routes. Drivers can stay focused on the road and make safer, more informed decisions behind the wheel.
One powerful safety feature of in-cab tablets is their ability to deliver daily feedback on behaviors such as speeding or sudden braking. This information, when shared with drivers, can make them more self-aware and motivate them to adjust their habits and reduce risky behaviors.
Improving driver experience with the right tech
Younger drivers want technology that makes their daily work easier. Fleets that deliver on that expectation will have an edge in both retention and recruitment.
Connected tablets for drivers can help streamline communication with fleet managers and customers, cut down on paperwork, and improve recordkeeping accuracy. By removing these daily pain points, drivers can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time focused on the road.
The right technology can also support professional growth. Drivers can access training videos, safety refreshers, and skill-building modules at their convenience, turning learning into a flexible, ongoing process. For fleet managers, it’s not just about sharpening skills—it’s about demonstrating a real investment in their drivers’ futures.
After upgrading its in-cab technology — which included offering driver trainings — transport and logistics company Paper Transport saw its driver turnover fall to 63% from 72%.
The message is clear: equipping drivers with the right technology isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about making their lives better. Fleets that prioritize driver well-being through smart, reliable tools will be the ones that win the talent war, keeping goods moving and businesses thriving.
Don’t let the driver shortage slow you down. Explore how smart in-cab technology can improve driver satisfaction, enhance safety, and secure your talent pipeline. See how Samsung can help your fleet.
