BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Conversion Interactive Agency and People. Data. Analytics.(PDA) have released their joint Q4 2024 Driver Recruiting & Retention Data Download Report showing a decline in drivers’ wages.
“As the freight economy rebounds, driver recruiting is becoming even more competitive,” said Kelley Walkup, CEO of Conversion. “To win in this environment, carriers must embrace technology and tools to improve efficiency and reduce costs while addressing driver needs head-on.”
Driver Pay a Top Consideration
Driver pay remained a top concern in recruiting and retention, with 59% of drivers reporting they earned less in 2024 than in 2023. Transparent and predictable pay structures were the most common reasons drivers sought new opportunities, while inconsistent miles and non-competitive pay rates continued to be leading causes of voluntary turnover.
“Carriers that tackle operational frustrations – from equipment problems to communication breakdowns – will see measurable improvements,” said Scott Dismuke, vice president of operations at PDA. “Transparency, proactive communication, and technology adoption are critical to building driver loyalty and trust.”
Beyond pay, retention challenges were heavily influenced by equipment and operational issues. Equipment-related frustrations, particularly with tractor assignments, increased for the third consecutive quarter. Communication breakdowns with dispatchers and planners further compounded the problem, negatively impacting driver satisfaction and contributing to turnover.
Critical Industry Trends
According to a media release, the in-depth report sheds light on critical trends shaping the trucking industry as the freight economy rebounds, providing actionable strategies for carriers to attract and retain drivers in an increasingly competitive landscape.
The Q4 report reveals that economic improvements are driving intensified competition for truck drivers. Unique driver job postings increased by 12.5% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting a tightening labor market.
New Tech Aiding Recruitment and Retention
The report underscores the game-changing role of technology in driver recruiting and retention efforts. Advanced tools such as AI automation in the Lead Assist platform helped carriers reduce their cost-per-hire by 27% in Q4 2024, making technology a crucial component in maintaining a competitive edge. Social media also emerged as a powerful channel for driver lead generation, with Facebook Reels generating 32% of all social media leads in Q4 2024, a significant leap from 5.6% in Q4 2022.
Looking Ahead
As the industry prepares for 2025, the report stresses the importance of carriers adopting a holistic approach to recruitment and retention. Leveraging AI and automation to streamline processes, implementing transparent and predictable pay structures, improving communication practices, and addressing operational pain points are all critical strategies for success in an increasingly competitive market.
“By leveraging the latest technologies, improving pay transparency, and addressing operational pain points, fleets can position themselves for long-term success,” Walkup said.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
In my opinion the main reason drivers wages are down is because of the lack of freight. If a company has the freight they will likely not have a driver retention issue and if they do they need to work on their issues within. You won’t find a person leaving a job because they are making too much Money!!!!!!!!!!!
Considering the many sacrifices that cdl drivers make in this career, they should DEFINITELY be paid more. They literally move everything we use in this country.
Just because they may have freight doesn’t mean they’re paying their drivers well! Everybody may be hiring but everybody ain’t paying! Watch out for the company pizza party🤣
Sorry Torey. But in my opinion the main reason wages are down is because of GREED!
Did your boss/owner trade-in his luxury car for a cheaper more efficient one? To be able to help you maintain your life? I think everyone knows the answer to those questions. Owners and board members are not sacrificing their lifestyle for the drivers. Ask them if you can observe them behind the wheel. Most if not all will not be able to.
Deregulation destroyed this industry as with so many others. Also the lack of Union’s. In my day a Union job got you paid.
You probably believe that that they are bad.
Wake up!Because the machines are going to be replacing you now not your boss.
I have years of experience with numerous safety awards, always passed D.O.T. inspections, no citations/ tickets and no Accidents. But, no company will touch me. Why? Because I know my worth and it isn’t what they are paying.