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.

To encourage active participation, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) introduces themed activities that make appreciation visible and memorable throughout the week:

Monday: Burgundy and White Day

Show NTDAW pride by wearing the official colors and brightening up terminals, cabs, and office spaces. Posting photos builds enthusiasm, and recognizing the most spirited groups strengthens team culture.

Tuesday: Treat a Trucker

Offer complimentary breakfasts, snacks, or refreshments at terminals or local truck stops. Enhancements like personalized notes, branded tokens, or driver-friendly items make the gesture stand out.

Wednesday: WIM Wednesday Driven to Lead

Highlight women in trucking by supporting the Women In Motion webinar, which shares inspiring stories and insights. Activities like raffles or gift card giveaways encourage strong engagement.

Thursday: Thank a Trucker

Leaders and team members can record short appreciation messages. Sharing them internally or on social media ensures drivers feel truly recognized authentically.

Friday: Raffle and Recognition

End the week on a high note with raffles, gatherings, or informal celebrations spotlighting drivers’ contributions. A recap of the week’s highlights builds camaraderie and pride.

While the ATA framework provides guidance, true impact depends on industry-wide involvement. A Women In Trucking Association poll on LinkedIn reflected growing participation. 56% of responding companies plan to host special events this year, while about 20% will acknowledge drivers through smaller initiatives. This broad support demonstrates increasing commitment to valuing drivers across the industry.

To maximize appreciation this week and beyond, carriers can adopt practical, meaningful approaches such as:

• Writing personalized thank you notes that reference safe driving milestones or service achievements.
• Coordinating meals or social gatherings that work with varied driver schedules so everyone is included.
• Decorating terminals with NTDAW branding and colors to create a festive, welcoming space.
• Sharing driver profiles and success stories through newsletters, social feeds, or company channels.
• Offering thoughtful gifts such as comfort kits, wellness products, or gift cards tailored to drivers’ needs.
• Enhancing terminal amenities with secure parking, clean facilities, and comfortable break areas, which are especially valued by women drivers.
• Launching mentorship and leadership programs that help drivers grow professionally and feel supported.

Driving a truck is among the most demanding professions, marked by long hours, extended time away from home, and critical responsibility. While National Truck Driver Appreciation Week provides a dedicated window to say thank you, the real difference lies in consistent, everyday recognition. Small but meaningful actions combined with genuine respect build lasting trust, strengthen morale, and help drivers feel truly valued long after the week has ended.

Source: ATA, Women In Trucking

The post Celebrating the People Who Keep America Moving: How Carriers Can Celebrate Their Drivers This #NTDAW appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.