National Truckers Appreciation Day

National Truckers Appreciation Day is observed on October 4 each year. It’s a day set aside to honor the men and women who work as truckers — the people who deliver the food we eat, the clothes we wear, and nearly everything else we use everyday.

History of National Truckers Appreciation Day

National Truckers Appreciation Day was established fairly recently — in 2020 — by Bill Stearnes, a used truck salesman from Memphis, Tennessee. His intention was to draw more widespread attention to the trucking industry and the hardships that many truckers endure — long hours, time away from family, dangerous or difficult work conditions — and to give people a chance to say thanks.

Though it is a young observance, it has already become recognized in various circles and media outlets in the U.S., often alongside related events (such as National Truck Driver Appreciation Week) that highlight similar themes.

Why is National Truckers Appreciation Day important?

It can be easy to take for granted how much of our daily life depends on goods being moved — raw materials, groceries, medical supplies, parts for everything from electronics to construction. Without reliable trucking, many supply chains would completely stall. National Truckers Appreciation Day gives us a moment to recognize that invisible infrastructure, the people behind the wheels, and the sacrifices they make.

Beyond the logistics, there’s a human side: many truckers spend long periods away from families, drive in all kinds of weather, face tough schedules and regulations, and often work under pressure. Sometimes their work is physically or mentally exhausting, and often overlooked. A simple day of appreciation helps underline their value, not just economically but socially — letting them know that people see them, appreciate them.

Here are some ways people often reflect on its importance:

people realize how many essentials arrive by truck — it connects us to something larger
it reminds us that every product, big or small, has a journey — and truckers are central to that
it humanizes the industry — the drivers are people with lives, families, stories
it provides a chance to thank those who often go unnoticed
it raises awareness for the challenges truckers face — safety, long hours, fatigue, emotional toll

How to Celebrate National Truckers Appreciation Day

Celebrating this day doesn’t require big budgets or huge events. Even small things can make a difference.

You might, for example, take a moment to thank a trucker you see on the road — wave, give a thumbs up, or even a note of thanks. If you know a local trucking company, you could drop off snacks, coffee, or supplies as a token of appreciation. Schools or community groups can invite a trucker to talk about their life or even take a short educational tour of a truck (if safe and permitted), helping people understand more about the realities of the job.

Another idea is to use social media to share messages of thanks, stories about truckers, or photos — this spreads awareness beyond your immediate circle. Local businesses could offer small deals or freebies for truckers on that day — a free meal, discounted services, etc. These acts, simple as they are, can help make the day special.

Here are some ideas people use to mark the day:

drop off coffee or snacks at a rest stop or truck stop for drivers passing through
write or post a thank‑you note or message — maybe on social media — acknowledging a trucker you know or noticed
support a local trucking business or buy from companies that treat their drivers well
arrange with a school or community center to share what a trucker’s job really involves — the long drives, safety responsibilities, etc.
choose to be a more considerate driver around trucks on the road, leaving space, being patient