COVID-19 & Driver Recruiting: Updates for 5/21/2020

We understand you and your team are battling the challenge of recruiting and retaining drivers during this unexpected pandemic situation. Conversion Interactive Agency is committed to regularly sharing with you the trends, information and data we are collecting that impacts you and your carrier.

While this is an ever-changing situation, below is a rundown of what we know today:

• FMCSA Conducting Compliance Reviews Without Carrier Visits During COVID-19 – FMCSA issued a notice this week regarding compliance reviews during COVID-19. The agency said due to COVID-19 risks, they will be leveraging all available technology to access information and records, and in many cases, this will not include investigators physically visiting carriers for compliance reviews and safety rating assignments. To review the full notice on this from FMCSA, click here.
• CDC Published a Guide Supporting Truck Driver Health & Wellness During COVID-19 – The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) published a document titled “What Long Haul Truck Drivers Need to Know About COVID-19” as a resource for carriers and drivers to use during the current pandemic. To view and download the document click here.
• Industry Indicating Technicians Just as “Essential” as Drivers During COVID-19 – While much of the talk in the industry has been about how “essential” truck drivers are during this time, many industry insiders and carries are reminding the public, government officials, and their staff how vital technicians are as well. The risk of COVID-19 is changing the way fleets and third-party repair shops are operating, including adjusting cleaning procedures and how they handle tools and equipment.

The following includes information on driver retention and COVID-19 from one of our valued partners, Professional Driver Agency.

• Some drivers are choosing to not go home during this time, and in some cases, it’s leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety.
• More than ever drivers need to hear from their carrier during this time. It is important for carriers to provide an outlet for extensive (longer than usual) conversations with drivers.
• Carriers need to be more involved in how amenities for drivers over-the-road are impacting their day-to-day life. Travel centers remain open, but many restaurants are closed, and truck parking remains an issue.
• To view the entire Data Download from Professional Driver Agency, click here.

Reminder: We are also sending out updates for your drivers so you can provide them with valuable information that will help them on the road. You can find the latest driver update here on our blog.

If you have specific information you would like to know or would like us to research, please email ppeters@conversionia.com.