Showing Gratitude for America’s Truckers

Can you imagine what our lives would be like if groceries, medicine, or gasoline were not readily available?  Fortunately, thanks to America’s more than 3.5 million truck drivers who deliver to communities coast to coast, we don’t have to.

In order to recognize the essential work that truckers do, September 15-21 is designated as National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.  This year’s theme, “From Coast to Coast” Celebrating Truck Drivers,” is a reminder that the magnitude of our gratitude should match the hundreds of billions of miles that truckers drive each year.

Professional drivers haul approximately 11 billion tons of freight annually, which accounts for over 70% of total U.S. freight tonnage.  Virtually every American job depends on truck drivers in some way.  Practically every aspect of our lives is impacted by the work of these professionals. 

When the global pandemic struck, the hardworking men and women behind the wheel came through for us.  When hurricanes cause flooding in the east, wildfires cause devastation in the west, or another disaster strikes the heartland, America turns to the trucking industry, which is the only form of transportation that is efficient and nimble enough to deliver relief supplies where they are needed most.

Clearly, we owe truck drivers our deepest appreciation for the work they do and the sacrifices they make to help put food on our tables and keep our homes comfortable.  If you see a truck driver on National Truck Driver Appreciation Week or any week, please take the time to say “thank you.”  You can also post on social media with the hashtag #thankatrucker.