Dallas, Texas — Dallas‑based freight broker QuickShip announced on September 10 that it will launch a driver‑centered appreciation campaign for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, shifting focus from terminal‑only events to digital recognition for on‑the‑road drivers.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, running from September 13 to 19, traditionally features terminal cookouts, meal giveaways and raffles that rely on drivers gathering at a single location. In practice, a large share of the nation’s CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators spend the week behind the wheel, making it difficult for them to attend. QuickShip’s move reflects a broader trend among trucking companies that recognize the need to reach drivers wherever they are.
QuickShip’s plan begins with a concise driver survey sent to its 3,200 drivers a week before the holiday. The questionnaire limits choices to items the company can supply, such as a meal voucher, a truck stop gift card, branded gear, or practical truck accessories. An optional raffle question asks whether drivers prefer a chance at a higher‑value prize or a guaranteed smaller gift. A final open‑ended prompt invites suggestions for making the week more meaningful. The data will shape the week’s offerings and inform future celebrations. For drivers who will be OTR during the week, QuickShip is offering digital meal vouchers and pre‑loaded gift cards that can be used at participating truck stops. When a driver is unable to pick up a physical giveaway at the terminal, the company will hold the item until the driver returns or ship it directly to the driver’s location. The same approach applies to QuickShip’s three regional terminals, ensuring every driver knows where to claim their reward.
What This Means for Drivers
Drivers who normally travel across state lines will now receive a guaranteed digital meal voucher that can be redeemed at any participating fuel stop, eliminating the need to wait for a terminal event. The fleet‑wide raffle allows night and weekend drivers to participate without being physically present, and winners will receive prizes shipped to their current location. By spreading appreciation activities over multiple days and shifts, QuickShip ensures that drivers on different routes and schedules can engage with the celebration. The survey results also give carriers insight into whether to keep the raffle format or switch to a guaranteed gift model in future years.
Industry Reaction
Other carriers in the Midwest, such as MidWest Logistics and Plains Freight, have announced similar plans for the upcoming week. Industry analysts note that this shift aligns with FMCSA regulations that emphasize driver rest and safety, encouraging employers to respect drivers’ schedules while still offering recognition. The broader trucking community has welcomed the move, citing increased morale among drivers who often feel overlooked when events are terminal‑centric.
Key Points
- National Truck Driver Appreciation Week runs September 13‑19.
- QuickShip will send a short survey to all drivers a week before the event.
- Digital meal vouchers and truck stop gift cards will replace in‑person giveaways for OTR drivers.
- Fleet‑wide raffles will be open to all drivers, regardless of location.
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