The Road to Better Driver Retention

One of the most pressing issues in Aotearoa’s trucking industry is driver retention. Recruiting younger drivers is difficult due to the works physically demanding nature and the long hours away from home.

Efforts are in place to get more drivers qualified for the heaviest class of trucks. However, retaining drivers will be a continual challenge for the trucking industry, especially with the ever-increasing demand for product delivery – but there’s a way to combat this.

Carriers can and should invest in technology to keep their best drivers on the roads and to attract new ones. Here are five ways vehicle tracking technology can assist:

1. Ensuring Safer Conditions and Better Routes

Safety is a key concern for truck drivers and long hours on the road leaves room for error. GPS fleet management software assists in tracking drivers work hours and breaks, notifies drivers to upcoming stop signs and sends alerts to make sure drivers stay awake during lengthy trips. Using real-time telematics data the tracking technology alerts fleet managers to dangerous handling, such as harsh braking and cornering, which could indicate fatigue.

Fleet management solutions also shorten trip turnaround times and routes – something that’s especially important with unforeseen roadworks or accidents – and allow drivers to make more efficient deliveries. With improved safety and routing, technology can reduce the stress level many drivers face when confronted with unexpected situations.

2. Keeping Up Communications

Telematics solutions offering two-way messaging tools help drivers and dispatchers better communicate with each other, reducing error, time wastage, and further eliminating friction with operations. Having an immediate, open line of communication alerts drivers to customer updates and requests, offers more efficient routes and provides step-by-step instructions.

3. Providing Better Training

The road is a tough place to perfect a profession because it doesn’t slow down for anyone. Drivers who’re onboarding with a company are trained in real-world circumstances. Technological advancements in vehicle tracking can help improve driver safety (navigation, lane departure alerts and cameras) and replay actual road events so drivers can learn from them.

4. Rewarding Good Driving

There’s nothing like incentives and positive reinforcement to keep people motivated and happy. Rewarding and encouraging good driver behaviour through analysis of road events and metrics is an excellent way to highlight the best and most valued fleet drivers. Drivers spend much of the day working alone so recognising their good work gives a sense of being part of a wider team. Rewards and praise give drivers a reason stay with their companies and maintain their efficient and safe driving practices.

5. Cutting Out the Paperwork

Drivers are required to fill out a great deal of paperwork ( recording RUC , engine data, kilometres travelled, work and rest times etc.). Electronic GPS tracking devices take the tedious paperwork away from the drivers and make their day-to-day responsibilities more satisfying and less tiresome. The technology reduces the risk of non-compliance and gives more time back to drivers.

High performance truck drivers are a valuable resource, as their roles require constant awareness and good judgment. It’s in everyone’s best interest to ensure drivers are satisfied and rewarded so they can retain them. That’s why it’s critical to factor in some level of telematics into drivers’ routines, helping them get their jobs done faster, safer and with less frustration.

To learn more about the benefits of telematics, visit /gps-tracking-benefits