Why Truck Drivers Are Saying Goodbye — and How Road Scholar Keeps Them Behind the Wheel

The trucking industry has long battled the issue of driver turnover.  According to the American Trucking Associations, turnover rates at large carriers have hovered around 90% in recent years.  Drivers are quitting in record numbers, citing a familiar list of grievances: lack of respect, unpredictable scheduling, and poor communication from management. 

But while the industry at large struggles to hold onto its workforce, some carriers are breaking the trend.  Road Scholar Transport is one of them.

Here’s a look at why so many truck drivers are walking away—and why Road Scholar’s driver-focused culture is keeping professionals satisfied, safe, and proud to stay behind the wheel. 

The Top Reasons Drivers Are Leaving

1. Poor Communication and Lack of Respect

Drivers often report feeling like a number—not a person.  Management makes promises they don’t keep.  Dispatchers communicate poorly.  There’s little transparency or appreciation for the tough, essential work drivers do.

2. Inconsistent Schedules and Home Time 

For many, trucking was supposed to be a steady career with predictable income.  But inconsistent loads, forced dispatch, and unpredictable schedules create instability—especially hard on drivers with families.

3. Equipment That Fails the Job

Old, poorly maintained equipment adds stress and danger to an already demanding job.  When drivers feel unsafe or unsupported on the road, morale and retention suffer.

4. Pay Without Purpose

While pay is a major factor in retention, it’s not the only one.  Drivers want fair compensation, but also value meaningful work, a clear mission, and a sense of loyalty between company and crew.

How Road Scholar Transport Keeps Drivers Onboard 

At Road Scholar Transport, we’ve always believed that the key to exceptional logistics lies in investing in our people—especially our drivers.  Here’s how we’re changing the game:

1. Transparent, Respectful Communication

Drivers are the backbone of our business, and we treat them as such. That starts with honest communication—from dispatch to leadership—and extends to a culture of mutual respect.  We keep our promises, and we listen.

2. Predictable Schedules & Home Time

We respect that our drivers have lives outside of the truck.  That’s why we prioritize home time and aim to provide consistency in routes and hours.  Our operations team works closely with drivers to balance business needs and personal time.

3. Top-Tier Equipment

We operate a modern, well-maintained fleet with advanced safety technology and create comforts that drivers appreciate.  When you step into a Road Scholar cab, you’re stepping into a clean, reliable, and safe workspace.

4. Purpose-Driven Freight

We’re not just moving freight.  From pharmaceutical shipments requiring strict temperature control to high-security hazmat cargo, Road Scholar hauls freight that matters.  Our drivers take pride in knowing they’re delivering life-saving medications, essential consumer goods, and high-value materials with precision and care.

5. Safety Above All

Our company’s foundation is built on safety.  From advanced telematics and tracking systems to proactive maintenance and training, Road Scholar invests in keeping our drivers safe—and that peace of mind means everything.

6. Recognition & Retention

Our drivers are celebrated.  We honor tenure, performance, safety milestones, and go above and beyond to show our appreciation with recognition programs and incentives.  When you work hard, we see it—and we say thank you.

The driver shortage isn’t just about numbers—it’s about culture.  Companies that fail to value their drivers will continue to suffer high turnover.  But at Road Scholar Transport, we believe in doing things differently. 

If you're a driver looking for more than just a paycheck—if you’re looking for respect, stability, and purpose—Road Scholar may be the right road for you.

Interested in joining the Road Scholar team?
Apply today!

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