In today’s freight economy, technology isn’t the only competitive edge. People are. Driver retention and workforce wellness have emerged as critical pillars of long-term fleet success—especially in 2025, where skilled labor is scarce, regulatory oversight is rising, and customer expectations are higher than ever.

While the transportation sector has traditionally focused on mechanical upgrades and equipment optimization, leading fleets in British Columbia are realizing that investing in people delivers an equal—if not greater—return on investment. From lower turnover and insurance premiums to improved delivery reliability and morale, the benefits of a healthy, well-supported workforce ripple across every aspect of your operation.

At Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales, we not only supply high-quality equipment, but also act as advisors to fleet operators building smarter, safer, and more resilient logistics businesses. In this article, we dive into the data behind driver wellness in 2025, explore practical strategies Surrey fleets can use today, and highlight how the right equipment choices contribute to workforce wellbeing.

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1. The State of the Driver Workforce in 2025

According to Trucking HR Canada’s 2025 labour outlook, Canada faces a shortfall of more than 28,000 commercial drivers, with nearly half of today’s drivers expected to retire or exit the industry by 2030. In British Columbia specifically, this shortage is felt most acutely in:

• Urban delivery and drayage fleets

• Long-haul cross-border operations

• Resource and logging transportation

At the same time, attrition rates are rising due to burnout, poor mental health, and physically demanding work environments. Over 60% of surveyed drivers in 2024 cited work-life imbalance and lack of support as top reasons for leaving a fleet—outweighing compensation concerns.

What does this mean for fleet operators in Surrey?

If you’re not proactively supporting your drivers’ health and morale, you’re paying for it through:

• Higher turnover and recruitment costs

• Unscheduled absences

• Lower delivery reliability

• Regulatory non-compliance and fines

• Increased accident and insurance rates

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2. Understanding Driver Wellness: Beyond Paycheques and Perks

“Driver wellness” is a broad term, but it typically encompasses three pillars:

a) Physical Health

Drivers face health risks from prolonged sitting, poor eating options, and irregular sleep. Back pain, fatigue, and obesity are common—especially among long-haul drivers. Add to this the physical demands of loading/unloading, and the risks compound.

b) Mental Health

Loneliness, stress, and monotony are serious mental health challenges for drivers. According to the 2024 Canadian Fleet Wellness Survey, 1 in 3 commercial drivers reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, often tied to isolation and lack of support.

c) Occupational Safety

A well driver is also a safe driver. Equipment condition, ergonomic design, and adequate training all influence injury rates and stress levels. Slip/fall accidents, lifting injuries, and fatigue-related incidents remain common causes of downtime and claims.

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3. Why Driver Wellness Is Now a Competitive Advantage

Fleets that invest in wellness programs not only improve lives—they improve profits.

Business Benefits of Wellness-Focused Operations:

Surrey’s competitive logistics market demands more than just reliable trucks—it demands reliable people. And retaining top talent starts with creating a workplace where drivers feel valued, supported, and safe.

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4. Fleet-Level Wellness Strategies You Can Implement Today

No fleet is too small—or too large—to benefit from a driver wellness strategy. Below are practical, high-impact approaches you can deploy across operations:

a) Ergonomic Equipment Selection

Trailers and trucks designed with ergonomics in mind can significantly reduce physical strain. At Mainland TTS, we offer units featuring:

• Low-profile steps and anti-slip ladders

• Lightweight rear doors and assist handles

• Easy-glide landing gear cranks

• Better lighting for safer nighttime operation

b) Preventive Maintenance = Safety + Stress Relief

Broken lights, faulty air brakes, or noisy suspensions not only affect safety—they add mental fatigue to every shift. Regular maintenance schedules and quick turnaround times give drivers confidence and peace of mind.

c) Flexible Routes and Schedules

Work-life balance doesn’t just happen—it’s planned. Consider rotating high-stress routes, limiting night shifts, and enabling more “home-daily” driving patterns where possible.

d) Health Support & Checkups

Offer access to:

• Mobile health clinics or telemedicine support

• Mental health workshops

• Ergonomic assessments for in-cab posture and loading zones

• Hydration, nutrition, and fitness guides tailored to drivers

e) Recognition Programs

Incentivize good driving behavior, safety records, and healthy habits through:

• Bonus programs

• Public recognition (driver of the month)

• Wellness challenges with small prizes (step counts, sleep tracking)

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5. Telematics and Tech: Supporting Driver Health Without Surveillance

Modern fleet telematics often focus on cost-saving KPIs—but they can also promote driver wellness when implemented with care.

Examples:

• Fatigue Alerts: AI-based monitoring that flags drowsiness or inattention

• Positive Coaching Tools: Real-time feedback on braking, idling, and cornering—delivered as support, not punishment

• Route Optimization: Reduces travel time and stress by avoiding congestion or construction zones

Remember: technology should empower, not punish. Transparent communication and driver buy-in are essential.

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6. Legal & Regulatory Trends: It Pays to Be Proactive

British Columbia’s WorkSafeBC and Transport Canada have introduced—or are reviewing—several key initiatives that reward wellness investment:

• Fatigue Management Plans are increasingly expected in audits.

• CSA Safety Scores affect eligibility for major contracts and insurance rates.

• Diversity and Inclusion Reporting is becoming standard among Tier 1 clients.

Companies with a proactive wellness culture are viewed as lower risk and are more likely to win government and corporate logistics contracts.

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7. The Role of Equipment Dealers in Driver Wellness

At Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales, we go beyond the sale. Our team understands how equipment impacts driver comfort, safety, and confidence. That’s why we:

• Stock ergonomic trailer designs built to minimize strain

• Inspect all units rigorously for safety and smooth operation

• Help fleet managers match specs to route and load types

• Offer leasing plans that include scheduled maintenance, reducing stress over repair logistics

• Partner with financing companies that support wellness investment with flexible payment terms

We also provide wellness consultation services to help fleet owners choose units that align with occupational safety best practices.

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8. Case Study: A Surrey-Based Fleet That Got It Right

One of our clients—a 35-unit container drayage fleet operating out of Delta and Surrey—was experiencing driver churn of nearly 40% annually. After implementing several wellness upgrades recommended by our team, results included:

• Replacing 8 aging trailers with lighter, ergonomically designed units

• Implementing a points-based driver recognition program

• Scheduling quarterly ergonomic safety training

• Offering healthy snacks and hydration stations at their yard

Within 12 months, turnover dropped to under 15%, accident claims declined, and the fleet secured a major intermodal contract with a large e-commerce client who valued their safety-first approach.

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9. Planning for the Next Generation of Drivers

The average commercial truck driver in Canada is 46 years old—and aging quickly. To remain viable, fleets need to recruit younger, tech-savvy, health-conscious professionals.

How?

• Create marketing materials that highlight work-life balance, not just wages.

• Offer paid apprenticeships or internships for new entrants.

• Foster a company culture that embraces diversity, mental wellness, and innovation.

• Let drivers be ambassadors—feature them in your website, social media, or recruitment campaigns.

Modern drivers want to feel proud of where they work. They want tools, schedules, and leadership that respect their wellbeing.

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10. Conclusion: Driver Wellness Is Not Optional—It’s a Growth Strategy

Driver retention and health are no longer soft metrics—they are measurable, impactful business drivers. Fleets that invest in wellness are seeing real returns through:

• Improved safety scores

• Lower recruitment costs

• Increased reliability

• Stronger relationships with customers and regulators

At Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales, we believe the trucks and trailers you choose are just as important as the people who operate them. Let’s work together to build a safer, more sustainable future for transportation in Surrey and beyond.

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Want to Learn More?

📍 Visit Us: 9616 188 Street, Surrey, BC V4N 3M2
📞 Call: +1 866-888-6887
🌐 Explore: www.MainlandTTS.com
📩 Email: info@mainlandtts.com

We’re here to help your drivers stay safe, your equipment stay sharp, and your business stay ahead.