The vast majority of Britain’s commercial drivers — the driving force behind the UK’s economy  — love what they do. Whether they’re shipping raw materials to a factory, restocking supermarket shelves, or delivering parcels, they play a pivotal role in the UK’s supply chain. 

But while they love driving for a living, many still feel underpaid and overworked. Three years on from the lorry driver strikes that threw a spanner in the works of the UK’s economy, it’s clear there’s still a need for better pay, improved career development, and a more flexible work-life balance. 

These are just some of the insights from a survey* of 500 commercial drivers carried out on behalf of Samsara in August 2024 focusing on a number of issues ranging from job security to the use of technology to improve safety. 

According to the survey, 83% of drivers — including HGV and van drivers — are satisfied in their current jobs. But scratch below the surface and there are some mutterings with only just over a third (37%) content with their career progression, and less than half (49%) happy with their work-life balance. Worryingly, too many (20%) cite stress and mental health issues as a concern.

And despite 83% of drivers saying they enjoy their work, 41% said they were likely to leave their current job in the next 12 months. These results may seem to be at odds with one another. But one interpretation gaining traction is that while drivers love what they do, they could be tempted to move elsewhere, lured by the prospect of better pay, career growth, and/or improved work-life balance.

In fact, the dissatisfaction with pay and conditions is so concerning that 72% of those surveyed would consider striking or other industrial action — that’s up from 61% last year when we carried out a similar survey published in our 2023: The Road Ahead report. 

While this might sound alarming, it doesn't necessarily signal that widespread industrial action — as witnessed three years ago — is on the cards. But it does suggest that despite enjoying their work, many drivers simply don’t feel their pay is keeping up with the cost of living.  

What has changed in the last 12 months, though, is the perception concerning the important work they do from those in the profession, from managers, the public — and even the Government. 

While a shift in perception may not address immediate issues concerning wages, it may help to address longer-term issues such as the industry’s need to recruit and retain more staff. As the research found, 69% of those surveyed believe there’s a shortage of commercial drivers in the UK. Attracting new talent —  especially younger people (66%) and women (53%) — remains a challenge.

It’s an issue that continues to act as a brake on the industry for years prompting business leaders, industry groups and the Government to come up with plans to improve recruitment. One idea being floated involves the introduction of autonomous vehicles, although many see this as a long-term solution. While this may be something that could help lessen the impact of driver shortages, when asked about the possible impact of such a move, half of drivers expressed concerns that such a move could eventually take away their jobs. 

As a snapshot of the issues facing drivers today, the research highlights some of the tensions within the sector. While drivers love what they do, they want better remuneration and are prepared to change jobs or take industrial action to achieve their aims. And while they accept that more needs to be done to attract new talent into the industry, they are also wary of the future and the impact autonomous vehicles might have on future prospects. 

Snarl-ups, potholes and poor driving

Samsara’s survey also asked drivers about what hacks them off the most when out and about behind the wheel. Perhaps it should come as no surprise that the poor condition of the roads was a major concern with potholes being a major gripe (85%). Congestion and unsafe driving were also top concerns (83%) with drivers also singling out low-emission zones and low-traffic neighbourhoods (60%). 

On the specific question of safety, drivers were particularly scathing about other road users who they said were guilty of speeding (64%), not signalling (59%), hogging the middle lane (57%), and using their phones illegally (53%). But they also saw a surprising number of people engaged in reckless behaviour such as taking selfies (46%) or even doing their hair or makeup while driving. 

What’s clear from the survey is that a sharp focus on safety is one of the things that distinguishes those who drive for a living from regular road users. It also, perhaps, explains why this group is so keen on technology to act as an extra pair of eyes and ears when out on the road.  

When it comes to safety, professional drivers are enthusiastic about technology. Nearly eight in ten (78%) are in favour of safety alerts and crash detection systems (76%), while two-thirds (66%) are upbeat about outward-facing dashcams. They also support monitoring technologies such as inward-facing dashcams (55%) and digital tachographs, all of which help make the roads safer for everyone.

In fact, the professionalism of commercial drivers is so deep-seated that many are calling for all road users to follow the same safety standards their industry is expected to follow, such as mandatory in-vehicle dashcams (75%), tachographs (61%), and more frequent testing (51%). Just over half (51%) want to see graduated driving licences introduced to reduce the risks associated with inexperienced drivers.

The road to zero-emission vehicles  

No self-respecting survey of the UK’s professional drivers would be complete without taking the opportunity to ask their views about the ongoing transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Of the 500 surveyed, one in five (22%) said they drive an EV for work. 

What’s clear, though, is that when it comes to EVs, the jury is still out. While 58% think moving to EVs is a good thing, a large chunk (67%) believes the current charging infrastructure isn’t up to scratch for commercial needs. What’s more, almost half (46%) don’t see EVs as a suitable alternative for commercial use yet, citing performance concerns.

For Philip van der Wilt, SVP EMEA at Samsara, the research provides a much-needed insight into the working lives of professional drivers. 

“Commercial drivers are the unsung heroes of our economy playing a pivotal role in keeping the wheels of the economy turning,” said Philip.

“They transport goods across the country, ensuring that shelves are stocked, businesses run smoothly, and communities stay connected. 

“Yet, as the survey reveals, drivers often feel undervalued and overworked, grappling with challenges such as inadequate pay, long hours, and road safety. 

“Their insights on issues ranging from road safety to the adoption of new technologies should be taken seriously, not just by their employers but by policymakers and the public as well. 

“Drivers keep our economy moving forward. We must never forget the important role they play,” he said.

* Samsara Driver Research, August 2024. The study was conducted by 3Gem Research & Insights which surveyed 500 commercial drivers in the UK, all of whom operate commercial vehicles such as HGVs and vans in sectors such as logistics, delivery, and field services. Of the participants, 84% were full-time employees, 9% were part-time, and 7% were self-employed. Fieldwork was conducted from August 14 to 20, 2024.