While the vast majority of women truckers are satisfied with their work-life balance and would recommend the profession to other women, many still have concerns about their safety, pay and on the job harassment.
Those are just some of findings of a recent survey by Lance Surety Bonds, which questioned 437 truckers, including 150 women.
The survey’s key takeaways include:
- 85% of female truckers would recommend the profession to other women or younger generations
- 89% report satisfaction with their work-life balance
- 88% of female truckers use social media for trucking-related content, with 96% saying it reduces isolation and 85% saying it helps them feel safer and more prepared on the road
- 72% of women have turned down trucking jobs, routes, or contracts due to safety concerns
- 31% of female truckers always feel safe sleeping in their truck at night, compared to 47% of men
- 20% of women truckers felt underpaid, 70% felt fairly paid, and 11% actually felt overpaid
According to the survey, 85% of woman truckers would recommend the profession to other women or younger generations, highlighting the growing appeal of trucking for those seeking independence, flexibility, and a steady income.
Likewise, a strong majority of woman drivers (89%) also reported being satisfied with their work-life balance, challenging the outdated perception that trucking doesn’t allow for personal time or flexibility.
While women are embracing the industry, some pay disparities persist, according to the survey. On average, male truckers earn 20.5% more than their female counterparts.
Individual experiences with pay can vary widely based on role, region, or employer. However, men were almost twice as likely as women to say they regretted becoming a truck driver.
Safety remains one of the top concerns for female truck drivers today.
Just 31% of female truckers said they always feel safe sleeping in their truck at night, compared to 47% of men. And that fear directly impacts business: nearly 3 out of 4 women (72%) have turned down routes, jobs, or contracts due to safety concerns.
Also, some women drivers continue to face harassment and discrimination while on the job. The survey found 30 percent reported experiencing sexual harassment in their role as truck drivers, while 28% said they had faced gender discrimination.
When it comes to respect on the road, perceptions vary based on gender. A full 93% of female truckers said they feel respected by other women in the industry, while only 69% said they feel respected by male truckers.
What would women drivers like to see changed?
- Increase the number of women in leadership and decision-making roles (41%)
- Implement stronger policies against harassment and discrimination (36%)
- Ensure equal pay for equal work (35%)
- Create safer and more respectful work environments (32%)
- Provide mentorship and sponsorship programs for women (26%)
And, what would make the job feel more Inclusive?
- Rest stop safety measures (51%)
- Women-only or gender-neutral bathrooms/showers (49%)
- Anonymous reporting channels for misconduct or bias (39%)
- Clear and enforced anti-harassment and discrimination policies (33%)
- Access to female or minority mentors (30%)
The survey found connection and visibility are playing a bigger role in women’s trucking experiences than ever before due to social media.
A large majority of female truckers (88%) use social media to find or share trucking-related content. For many, these platforms are more than entertainment; they’re lifelines.
Among those who use social media, 96% said it makes them feel less isolated while on the road, according to the survey. Even more telling, 85% said it helps them feel safer and better equipped to deal with job challenges. This could include anything from route planning and vehicle maintenance tips to advice on avoiding unsafe areas.
TikTok in particular appears to be making a positive impact. Among female truckers who use the platform, 3 in 4 said it has helped improve public perceptions of women in trucking.
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