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Strategies for Filling Driver Vacancies Amid Worker Shortage
July 5, 2022

Strategies for Filling Driver Vacancies Amid Worker Shortage

The trucking industry has been facing many challenges in the past few years, including truck driver shortages. Companies are struggling to attract a new generation of drivers to fill vacancies left behind by retiring workers. The Canadian trucking industry has about 23,000 truck driver job vacancies, a number that is expected to reach 55,000 by 2024, according to the Canadian Trucking Alliance. This shortage will continue to put stress on the industry, but there are a few ways trucking companies can adapt to attract new talent.

Consider these operational changes that can be implemented in order to fill driver vacancies:

  • Offer flexible schedules. Many prospective drivers are hesitant to be away from home for long periods of time. Offer the option of working closer to home or adjusting routes to make the position more enticing.
  • Adopt new fleet management procedures or technology. Updating technology can help reduce the average length of haul. Although keeping drivers on the road frequently can increase capacity, reducing the average length of haul can help drivers improve their health and work-life balance.
  • Adjust training programs. Prospective drivers may be intimidated by the amount of experience and legal requirements needed to obtain a commercial driver’s licence. Consider changes to training programs and job listings to help integrate drivers from other industries.
  • Take recruitment to the next level. Expand recruitment efforts by posting on multiple online and local job boards, keep the company website up to date with relevant information for potential employees, and create or update the company’s referral program.

The driver shortage will most likely be a challenge throughout the foreseeable future, which makes it essential to stay up to date on the latest industry policies and trends that will help attract and retain drivers. Contact CMB Insurance Brokers for more resources on driver training, legal requirements and transportation-related news.

For information on trucking insurance, or to find out how to reduce your insurance costs call CMB at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote.