The Alabama Trucking Association teamed up with Alabama-based band Heroes of the Highway for the second year in a row to release an original song honoring the nation’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers. “Get Miles” debuted earlier this week as part of this year’s NTDAW celebration.

“Get Miles” Continues the Story from Last Year

The new release follows “Highway Dreaming,” which the same partnership released during last year’s appreciation week. Instead of beginning with a new story, “Get Miles” returns to the driver introduced in the first song and moves his journey forward.

The character who was just getting started in “Highway Dreaming” is now a seasoned professional who has settled into life on the road and continues putting in the miles.

The sound has changed along with the story. The Alabama Trucking Association described the new track as leaning toward early-2000s post-grunge, with driving guitars, soaring vocals, and drums giving the second release a heavier sound.

Heroes of the Highway Returned for the Second Release

Will Stewart handles lead vocals and guitar, while Les Nuby plays lead guitar, bass, and drums, and Ford Boswell provides backing vocals. Stewart and Boswell co-wrote the song, with Nuby also handling engineering and mixing.

The project also connects strongly to Alabama’s trucking community. According to the Alabama Trucking Association, approximately 34,000 trucking companies operate in the state, and the industry employs 125,000 Alabamians, representing about one in every 13 jobs.

The Tribute Arrives During NTDAW

“Get Miles” was released as the trucking industry marked National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from September 13–19. With this year’s celebration nearing its end, the song gives listeners another way to recognize the professionals who keep freight moving across the country.

The Alabama Trucking Association has represented the state’s trucking industry since 1938 through advocacy, training, and industry programs. The organization said its efforts to support professional drivers continue throughout the year beyond the annual appreciation week.

“Get Miles” is now available on streaming platforms.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 18, 2026

Source: Yellow Hammer News

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The company brought nearly 100 owner-operators, fleet drivers, and trucking personalities into its Shell Rotella Recording Studio during MATS to talk about their careers, memorable experiences, and what makes them proud to work in trucking. Those conversations were compiled into a video that premiered September 13 and is being shared during NTDAW.

Stories Recorded at MATS Raised Money for SCF

The project also generated more than $2,000 for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, which assists over-the-road and regional truck drivers and their families when illness or injury creates financial hardship.

Shell Rotella pledged $25 to SCF for each video recorded at MATS. With nearly 100 people participating, the recordings served two purposes: allowing truckers to share their experiences while raising money for others in the industry.

Shell Rotella Brand Manager Julie Wright said the recording studio gave participants a chance to explain what trucking means to them in their own words while supporting SCF’s work.

More Driver Stories Are Coming

The Boston Trucker, Clarissa Rankin and Tarik Al-Amin were among the trucking personalities involved in the recording sessions, encouraging participants to reflect on their careers and experiences behind the wheel.

Although the main video debuted for NTDAW, Shell Rotella plans to continue sharing conversations from the project throughout the year.

Drivers can find the video and additional stories through Shell Rotella and the brand’s social media channels.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 17, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Shell Rotella Puts Truck Drivers’ Stories in the Spotlight During NTDAW appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Both chains launched month-long promotions around National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, which runs September 13 through 19 this year. Most of the offers require membership in the companies’ respective rewards programs.

RaceTrac Offers Weekly Free Food and Drinks

RaceTrac’s Driver Appreciation Month promotion runs September 2 through September 30 at participating Travel Centers and Extended Diesel Offer locations.

Professional drivers can receive one free pizza slice, one free fountain drink, and one free 16-ounce Reign, Bang, NOS, or Full Throttle energy drink each week. RaceTrac is also offering double loyalty points on fuel throughout the promotion.

Drivers need to be registered with RaceTrac Rewards and use the RaceTrac app to access the offers. Eligible users should select “semi-truck” under the professional driver setting in their profile.

Sheetz Drops Bulk DEF to $1.99 Per Gallon.

Sheetz is reducing the price of bulk diesel exhaust fluid to $1.99 per gallon through September 30. The discount is available at 55 locations across the company’s seven-state footprint that sell bulk DEF from truck diesel dispensers.

Drivers can identify participating stops through the Sheetz store locator or app by searching for locations with bulk DEF. The promotional price does not apply to packaged DEF sold inside the store.

High-Flow Diesel Purchases Unlock More Sheetz Offers

Sheetz is also offering a free commercial diesel hat at its 59 locations with high-flow truck diesel through September 30, while supplies last. The promotion is limited to one hat per truck diesel customer.

A high-flow diesel purchase can also qualify My Sheetz Rewardz members for one free half-size sub. Extras and add-ons are excluded from the offer.

Drivers pumping 100 gallons of high-flow diesel can receive one free made-to-order item or beverage. Unlike the other September promotions, the 100-gallon offer continues through October 27 and is limited to one redemption per day.

The free item offer excludes alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco products, MTO items with 15 pieces or more, multi-pack cooler items, extras, and add-ons.

Rewards Accounts Are Required

Drivers planning to use the promotions should check their rewards accounts before stopping. RaceTrac’s offers require a RaceTrac Rewards account with the professional driver profile set correctly, while Sheetz’s food and merchandise offers are available through My Sheetz Rewardz.

Participating locations also matter, particularly for the Sheetz DEF promotion. Only stores equipped with bulk DEF at the truck diesel dispensers are offering the $1.99 price.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 8, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: RaceTrac

The post RaceTrac and Sheetz Roll Out September Deals for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

That is worth considering before plans are finalized. Instead of assuming which gifts or events drivers will appreciate most, carriers still have time to ask and make sure the celebration includes drivers who will not be there in person.

Send a Short Driver Survey

A survey sent before the week begins can give drivers a direct say in what they would like to receive. Keep it short enough to complete from a phone and limit the choices to options the company can realistically provide.

Carriers could ask drivers to rank a meal or truck stop gift card, company gear, practical items for the truck, or other giveaways already under consideration. If a raffle is planned, another question could ask whether drivers would rather have a chance at a larger prize or receive a smaller gift guaranteed to everyone.

Include one open-response question at the end asking what would make the week more meaningful to them. That gives drivers room to suggest something that may not have been included in the choices and can also give carriers ideas for future celebrations.

Include Drivers Who Will Be OTR

A terminal cookout can still be part of the week, but it should not be the only way drivers are recognized. Before September 13, carriers can determine which drivers are unlikely to return to a terminal and decide what they will receive instead.

If drivers at the terminal are getting lunch, those on the road could receive a digital meal or truck stop gift card. If giveaways are being handed out in person, items for OTR drivers can be set aside before distribution begins and held until they return.

Carriers with multiple terminals can take the same approach across locations. Drivers based at a smaller facility or passing through another terminal should know where their gift is available rather than having to track it down after the week is over.

Make Raffles Available to the Entire Fleet

Raffles can easily include drivers on the road as long as being physically present is not required to win. Entering every eligible driver automatically allows OTR, night, and weekend drivers to participate alongside those attending the terminal event.

Winners can be contacted directly and prizes held or shipped if necessary. If drawings are planned throughout the week, the same fleet-wide entry list can be used rather than limiting each drawing to whoever happens to be at the terminal that day.

The survey can also help determine whether a raffle is something drivers actually want. If most drivers would rather receive a smaller guaranteed item than have a chance at one of a few larger prizes, carriers still have time to use that information.

Think About the Timing of Terminal Events

The week lasts seven days, but appreciation activities are often concentrated around a single meal or event. Spreading activities across different days and shifts gives more local and regional drivers a chance to participate without requiring a change to their work schedule.

Night and weekend drivers should be part of that planning as well. If food, gifts, or other activities are only available during weekday office hours, another portion of the fleet can end up missing the same celebration that OTR drivers do.

For companies holding several events, sharing the full schedule with drivers ahead of time can also help those who expect to pass through a terminal during the week know when something is happening.

Find Out What Worked

A short follow-up survey after September 19 can answer questions that are difficult to judge from event attendance alone. Ask drivers whether they received their gift, were able to participate in any company activities, and what they would keep or change next year.

The responses can be especially useful when planning for drivers who spend most of their time away from a terminal. If an on-the-road option was well received, it can become part of next year’s plan from the beginning rather than being added as an alternative later.

There is no single meal, gift, or event that will be the first choice of every driver. Asking drivers what they would like before the week begins and making sure those choices reach people on the road gives carriers a better chance of making the recognition count wherever their drivers happen to be.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 3, 2026

The post What Do Drivers Actually Want for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week? appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

For the first time, the awards coincided with National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, a deliberate choice to highlight not only the honored carriers but the dedication of drivers who keep freight moving every day.

In 2024 alone, the winning carriers collectively handled nearly 2 million loads for C.H. Robinson, demonstrating the scale of their contribution to the supply chain. The honorees range from small, single-truck operations to fleets operating thousands of vehicles, showing excellence at every level of the industry.

“These carriers exemplify the best in the industry,” said Michael Castagnetto, president of North American Surface Transportation at C.H. Robinson. “But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I also want to recognize the 360 other COYA nominees and the entirety of our 450,000+ carrier network. They help us and our customers succeed every day. We are proud to honor them for another year of exceptional achievements.”

Celebrations in Minnesota

Representatives from the winning carriers,  including drivers, managers, and company leadership, joined in on festivities hosted by C.H. Robinson. Events included a Minnesota Twins game, where winners received customized “Carrier of the Year” jerseys, along with a special visit to the company’s Eden Prairie, Minnesota, headquarters.

Full List of 2025 C.H. Robinson Carrier of the Year Winners

• 1 Truck: Jato Express, Channahon, Illinois
• 2–10 Trucks: IB & DB Trucking, Avondale, Arizona
• 11–19 Trucks: GARESP Transportation Solution, Phoenix
• 11–19 Trucks: ABR Transport, St. Paul, Minnesota
• 20–74 Trucks: MEB Express, Miami, Florida
• 75–199 Trucks: Timmons Transit, Jonesboro, Arkansas
• 75–199 Trucks: Bettaway Beverage Distributors, South Plainfield, New Jersey
• 200–999 Trucks: JIT EX, Memphis, Tennessee
• 200–999 Trucks: Trucks For You, Muskogee, Oklahoma
• 1000+ Trucks: Super Ego, Chicago, Illinois
• Canada: Load King Transport, Vaughan, Ontario
• Marine Drayage: Whimsy Mt., Prospect, Illinois
• Flatbed: E&R Transportation, Mendota, California
• Intermodal: Genesis Intermodal Services, San Antonio, Texas
• LTL: Southeastern Freight Lines, Lexington, South Carolina
• LTL: Estes Express Lines, Richmond, Virginia
• LTL: XPO Logistics Freight, Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Mexico: Transportes de Carga Fema, Laredo, Texas
• Specialized Heavy Haul: KD Specialized, Irving, Texas
• Temperature Control: Aldrich Trucking, Dongola, Illinois

Image Source: C.H. Robinson
Source: Truckers News

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The company noted that these drivers have demonstrated “industry-leading safety records, exceptional skills and consistency throughout their careers.”

Drivers recognized for their achievements include:

Three Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Daniel Ronca
• Todd Miller

Two Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Richard Burkhart
• Richard Hunt
• Dennis Desrosiers
• John Basile
• William Jones
• Richard Wright
• Paul Waite Jr.

One Million Miles of Safe Driving

• David Adams
• Samuel Kinyanjui
• Gerardo Lopez III
• Walter Baumert
• Keith Carknard
• Charles Krumm
• Juan Ramos
• Robert Kaduck
• Joshua Cartier
• James Mooney
• John Davis
• Michael Oktavec
• Anthony Bowen
• Francis Hess
• John Arnold
• Michael Boyer
• William Ort
• Brian Eslinger

Source: A. Duie Pyle
Source: Truckers News

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“This song is more than just music — it’s a tribute to the hardworking men and women who deliver for their families, communities, and the nation every day,” said Josh Vaughn, Alabama Trucking Association (ATA) director of advocacy and marketing. “The entire song and accompanying video were written, performed, and recorded right here in Alabama by Alabama musicians and artists.”

Born from an Idea at ATA’s Annual Convention

The project began during ATA’s annual convention last May, where Alabama’s Sweet Tea Trio — Kate Falcon, Taylor Morrison, and Savannah Sawyer — performed a moving a cappella rendition of the national anthem. Their harmonies left the room captivated, sparking Vaughn’s idea to create a musical tribute for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.

Soon after, Vaughn teamed up with Alabama musicians under the banner Heroes of the Highway, and with the help of Birmingham songwriter Will Stewart, “Highway Dreaming” was recorded at the historic Cypress Moon Studios in Sheffield.

A Song Written for the Road

The anthem captures the resilience, pride, and unshakable spirit of truck drivers. With lyrics such as “turning miles right into money,” it reflects both the challenges and the purpose that come with life behind the wheel.

The accompanying music video, directed by Vaughn, blends studio moments with real-life trucking families. Blair Logistics driver Jeremy Johnson and his family, along with ATA President Mark Colson’s daughter, Liv, are featured, giving the video an authenticity that resonates beyond the music.

Sweet Tea Trio’s Signature Sound

Sweet Tea Trio’s harmonies have taken them to stages with icons like Bon Jovi, Alabama, and Kid Rock. In “Highway Dreaming,” their sound anchors the song, giving it both emotional depth and a sense of pride rooted in their Alabama heritage.

Where to Listen

Fans can stream Highway Dreaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major platforms. The music video is available at HighwayDreaming.com and on the Sweet Tea Trio’s official YouTube channel.

By blending storytelling, powerful vocals, and the everyday grit of trucking families, “Highway Dreaming” stands as a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of America’s highways.

Source: The Trucker

The post Highway Dreaming Honors Truck Drivers with a Soulful Tribute appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Turning Appreciation into Action

Earlier this year at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Shell Rotella invited attendees to record messages of gratitude in its “Thank-a-Trucker” studio. For each message shared, both Shell Rotella and Love’s pledged $20 to SCF — an organization dedicated to helping truckers facing unexpected financial or medical challenges.

In total, 72 heartfelt recordings were made, adding up to a combined $2,880 donation to SCF. Shell emphasized the power of turning appreciation into action: “Seventy-two voices of gratitude echoed through MATS, each one a heartfelt ‘thank you’ that turned words into action. In total, these messages generated a $2,880 donation made in honor of the hardworking people who keep the country moving.”

Spotlighting the People Behind the Wheel

The donation is being presented this week during NTDAW, along with a virtual check presentation video rolling out on social media. The video will feature thank-you messages from Shell Rotella and Love’s representatives, paired with the unveiling of the donation check, creating a shareable way to recognize truck drivers nationwide.

Julie Wright, North American brand manager for Shell Rotella, underscored the importance of the effort: “Truckers are the unsung heroes of the highway, and their sacrifices and commitment deserve our deepest gratitude. We are honored to shine a spotlight through this shared tribute to every mile, every sacrifice, and every story worth celebrating through our continuing support of SCF.”

A Gift That Makes an Impact

For drivers, this support can make a real difference. Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy at SCF, explained: “Every donation, every thank-you message, makes a difference. Shell Rotella and Love’s Travel Stops continue to show up for drivers in a meaningful way, and this gift will help us continue our mission to support truckers in need.”

Amplifying Voices Across the Industry

To reach even more drivers, Shell Rotella partnered with trucking influencers Clarissa Rankin (@iamclarissarankin) and Tarik Al-Amin II (@tarik_alaminii). Their platforms helped amplify the project, encouraging drivers to share personal experiences and stories of gratitude that reflect the strength and heart of the trucking community.

Courtney Franklin, manager of community relations at Love’s Travel Stops, noted how the partnership reflects shared values: “It’s an honor to align with Shell Rotella in sharing a sincere thank you to the people who drive the transportation industry and economy. This partnership reflects our shared respect for drivers and our commitment to their health and success.”

Wrapping Up NTDAW with Thanks

As NTDAW comes to a close on Sept. 20, the donation and tribute video serve as reminders that appreciation for drivers shouldn’t stop once the week ends. With millions of miles traveled and countless sacrifices made, this initiative highlights the dedication of professional truckers and the importance of recognizing their role in keeping America moving.

To see the “Thank-a-Trucker” tribute video and virtual donation presentation, visit Shell Rotella’s official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Source: Shell

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DAT Hosts BBQ Events in South Dakota

On Sept. 15 and 16, DAT Freight & Analytics welcomed drivers in South Dakota with free BBQ meals as part of its annual show of appreciation. The events took place at Coffee Cup Fuel Stops in Brandon and Hartford, where drivers could grab a meal from the Backyard BBQ food truck, pick up DAT swag, and connect with representatives.

DAT also used the events to highlight its partnership with the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, an organization that supports drivers and their families when medical challenges prevent them from being on the road.

“DAT’s success is built on the work and dedication of owner-operators, small carriers, and their truck drivers,” said Jeff Clementz, DAT President and CEO. “Freight doesn’t move, and our business simply wouldn’t exist without them. These events are our way of saying thank you.”

Circle K Offers Free Drinks Nationwide

Circle K Pro is showing appreciation by offering drivers five free drinks through its Inner Circle rewards program. From Sept. 14–20, professional drivers can redeem the code DRIVERWEEK25 in the Circle K app under Account > Redeem Code to access the deal. Options include Polar Pop (up to 44 oz), Froster, or Hot/Iced Coffee, with one redemption available per day at participating locations. It’s a simple way for drivers to grab a well-earned refreshment while on the road.

C.H. Robinson Announces Awards Today

In Minneapolis, C.H. Robinson is marking this week by honoring its 2025 Carrier of the Year Award winners, with names revealed today, Sept. 17. The awards highlight carriers of every size, from small family operations to large fleets, for consistently delivering exceptional service.

Alongside the award ceremony, the company is spreading appreciation nationwide. Drivers are receiving thank-you gift boxes with handwritten notes from employees at locations in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and Columbus, Ohio.

WEX Offers Fuel Savings for Drivers

Fuel remains one of the biggest expenses for truckers, and WEX is offering relief during this appreciation week. Through Sept. 20, drivers using the 10-4 by WEX app can access a special sign-on bonus of $25 off their first 75-gallon fuel purchase.

The app, designed to give small carriers and independent truckers access to discounts usually reserved for large fleets, is accepted at thousands of locations across the country, including Love’s, Circle K, TA, Petro, Speedway, and more.

The 10-4 by WEX app is available in the Google Play Store or the App Store.

Port of Long Beach Thanks Drivers with Food and Gifts

On Sept. 16, the Port of Long Beach hosted an appreciation event for drivers who move freight through its busy harbor. Free breakfast and lunch were provided, along with port-branded gifts. The event also featured representatives from the California Air Resources Board, who offered on-site testing and guidance on Clean Truck Check requirements.

A Week to Remember

As Truck Driver Appreciation Week continues, one thing is clear — the industry is rallying to ensure drivers feel valued. Whether it’s a hot meal, a discount at the pump, or a simple thank-you note, these gestures reflect the respect and gratitude that professional drivers have earned.

Source: Truckers News, The Trucker
Image Source: Next Generation In Trucking

The post Midweek Highlights from Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2025 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Held every summer at the “World’s Largest Truckstop,” this event is a tradition for many drivers — a moment to step out of the cab, enjoy live entertainment, and connect with the larger trucking community. Admission, parking, and concerts are all 100% free, and events will go on rain or shine.

A Tradition Built on Community and Celebration

The Jamboree brings together everything drivers love in one spot — from live music and fireworks to cookouts, classic rigs, and contests.

“The Jamboree wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of the Iowa 80 staff, along with all the volunteers who brave the summer heat to make sure it’s a success,” said Delia Moon Meier, senior vice president of the Iowa 80 Group.

Featured highlights include the annual Super Truck Beauty Contest, a showcase of vintage trucks, the fan-favorite Iowa pork chop cookout, and the ever-competitive Trucker Olympics. Two nights of fireworks will light up the Walcott sky — a tradition that’s grown into one of the most anticipated parts of the weekend.

Big Sounds on the Big Stage

Country music fans are in for a treat Friday night. Little Texas takes the main stage at 7:00 PM on July 11.

“You’ll remember Little Texas for their iconic songs ‘God Bless Texas,’ ‘Amy’s Back in Austin’ and ‘You and Forever and Me,’” said Heather DeBaillie, vice president of marketing for the Iowa 80 Group.

The Grammy-nominated group has also received two American Music Award nominations and five ACM nods, taking home Top Vocal Group of the Year in 1993. They also earned Album of the Year at the CMAs in 1994, securing their place in ‘90s country history.

The music lineup also includes several Quad Cities favorites:

• The Jimmy Welty Band
• Casey Muessigmann
• Angela Meyer and the Western Stars
• The Dani Lynn Howe Band

If You Go

The Walcott Truckers Jamboree is located at Iowa 80 Truckstop, I-80 Exit 284 in Walcott, Iowa. On-site parking is free, and shuttle service from the parking area to the event grounds is being provided courtesy of TBK Financial’s LoadPay.

Concerts are free and open to the public, along with all other scheduled activities. For times and event details, visit truckersjamboree.com.

“So park your truck (or your car), put on your sunscreen, and head outside for another memorable Walcott Truckers Jamboree!” Meier added.

Image Source: Iowa 80 Group
Source: The Trucker

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