As Truck Driver Appreciation Week rolls around, we at Phelps want to take a moment to recognize the incredible dedication and hard work of our drivers. They are the backbone of our industrial laundry service, ensuring that clean, high-quality linens and uniforms reach our customers on time, every time. This week is about showing our gratitude for their tireless efforts, which are critical to the smooth operation of countless businesses like ours.

The Phelps Difference: Dedication and Tenure

At Phelps, we’re proud to say that our drivers are more than just employees—they’re the backbone of our team! With an average tenure of five years, our drivers are committed, experienced professionals who take pride in their work. This kind of loyalty speaks volumes about the positive work environment we’ve cultivated, but it also reflects the personal relationships our drivers develop with the customers they serve.

Our drivers aren’t just delivering laundry; they’re building connections. Whether it’s a friendly chat during a delivery or going the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction, these interactions create strong bonds. Our drivers understand the importance of these relationships and how they contribute to our mission of providing exceptional service.

The Bigger Picture: Truck Drivers in America

Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of our economy. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), over 70% of all freight in the United States is transported by trucks. This amounts to nearly 11 billion tons of goods annually, including essential items like food, medicine, and, of course, the clean uniforms and linens provided by companies like Phelps. More statistics include:

• Truck driving is one of the most common occupations in the United States, with over 3.5 million truck drivers employed nationwide.
• The trucking industry generates over $700 billion in revenue annually, underscoring its vital role in keeping the U.S. economy moving.
• The average long-haul truck driver in the U.S. drives between 2,000 and 3,000 miles per week, totaling up to 125,000 miles per year—enough to circle the globe five times.

Despite the critical role they play, truck drivers often face challenging conditions. Long hours, time away from family, and the stress of navigating busy roads are just a few of the hurdles they encounter daily. Yet, they persist, driven by a commitment to their profession and a deep sense of responsibility.

Why We Appreciate Our Drivers

At Phelps, we recognize that our drivers are more than just part of the logistics chain—they are ambassadors of our brand. Every time they make a delivery, they represent the values and standards we uphold as a company. Their dedication ensures that businesses have the clean, professional uniforms and supplies they need to operate smoothly, helping industries like healthcare, hospitality, and food service thrive.

Celebrating Our Drivers

During Truck Driver Appreciation Week, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every driver on our team. Your hard work and dedication are what keep Phelps running smoothly, and we are deeply grateful for everything you do.

To our drivers: Thank you for your commitment, your reliability, and the care you put into every delivery. We’re proud to have you as part of the Phelps family and look forward to many more years of working together.

This week, and every week, we appreciate you!