Truck Driver Appreciation Week Is Here — And It's About Time

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Intro: They’re Finally Clapping for the Right People

Forget the TikTok influencers and podcast bros. You know who actually deserves a spotlight? The folks moving the freight 24/7 — America’s truck drivers.

Every September, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) rolls around — but this year? The industry’s stepping up in a bigger way, and the good vibes are finally matching the grind.

From cookouts at truck stops to giveaways, bonuses, and big shoutouts from carriers, it’s finally about honoring the ones who keep the country running — even when the wheels fall off.

What’s Happening This Week?

🚛 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) happens mid-September
🛠️ Carriers, industry orgs, and truck stops are stepping up with:

Free meals and drinks at major truck stop chains

Raffles, gear giveaways, and bonus checks

Social media campaigns recognizing driver stories

Thank-you letters, posters, and even billboards in some states

Some shops are even doing free DOT inspections and discounted PMs

It’s not just lip service this time — there’s real effort to boost morale and show respect.

Why It Matters More This Year

Let’s be honest — the last couple of years have been rough for drivers:

Rates dropped

Fuel stayed high

Broker games got worse

And more pressure landed on fewer drivers

Now throw in truck parking problems, hours-of-service headaches, and rising automation fear?

Drivers are tired. Appreciation ain’t just nice — it’s necessary.

“They say we’re essential, then forget about us until the freight stops moving.”
– Literally every driver ever

NTDAW is a small way to remind drivers that the public — and the industry — still sees you.

Multiple Perspectives: Here's the Real Talk

👔 Carriers say:

“We’re grateful for our drivers — we’re offering bonuses and shoutouts all week.”

🛑 Drivers say:

“Cool, thanks... but will y’all still appreciate us when we ask for a raise?”

📣 Industry orgs say:

“Drivers are the backbone of America. Let’s celebrate them!”

🙄 Veterans say:

“Been driving 30 years. Give me paid time off and a parking spot. That’s appreciation.”

Everyone’s got a point. Gratitude is great, but action means more. Still — for many, this week’s gestures do matter.

The Good Vibes Are Spreading

Local schools are bringing in drivers to talk about careers

State DOTs are posting public thank-yous on their digital signs

Even some shippers and receivers are offering quicker turns and better food

It may not be perfect, but there’s something powerful about a nation remembering the people behind the wheel.

This is the one time of year where you’re not just seen as “the truck” — you’re seen as the person behind it.

Soak It In — And Pass It On

If you’re a driver, take the free coffee, enter the raffle, enjoy the cookout. You earned it.

But also — give a shoutout to another driver. Check on that rookie who’s struggling to back into a tight dock. Or thank a mechanic who keeps your wheels turning.

Appreciation is contagious — and this industry needs more of it all year long.

Bottom Line: It’s About Time You Got Some Flowers

This week might not fix every issue in trucking. But it’s a moment — a pause — where the industry says:

“Hey driver. We see you. And we appreciate the hell out of you.”

So stand tall. Drink the free coffee. Grab that free swag. And keep rolling strong.

Because without you? The country stops. Full stop.

📣 Call to Action: Own Your Next Chapter Too

You deserve appreciation this week — but don’t wait for anyone else to give it next time.

👉 Want to learn how drivers are using AI to make money while off duty?
Head to RetireFromTrucking.com
for free training on building real online income.

👉 Want more real talk, tips, and tools to grow as a driver?
Hit up LifeAsATrucker.com

Because Appreciation Week is awesome — but freedom all year long? That’s even better.