Thirty-five percent of drivers surveyed rate their current fleet benefits, including compensation and incentives, equipment and technology, employee-company communications, and job stability, as "below average."

Meanwhile, only 10 percent rate their fleet benefits as "above average," with the remaining 55 percent rating benefits as "average."

The findings come from research published today by Open Road Drivers Plan, a legal program serving over-the-road truckers across North America. The authors of the findings point out that now is a critical time for fleets to focus on retention.

"In the midst of a recession that has devastated the trucking industry, bankrupting thousands of carriers and leaving thousands more unemployed, the trucking industry has experienced turnover rates far below historical industry averages," the report said. "As a result, fleets with a focus on lean business practices throughout the economic slowdown may easily overlook the importance of strong retention programs while freight remains weak. Industry experts continue to predict, however, a new driver shortage to arrive within the next five years."

The survey shows that the industry's low turnover rates are not necessarily the result of increased job satisfaction, with such as low number of drivers rating benefits as "above average."

So, what keeps drivers around?

While drivers did emphasize the importance of job stability, they also want appreciation and communication, the research found. Two out of three drivers place high value on a company's driver recognition and safety incentive programs when deciding whether to leave or stay. In addition, 97 percent said it was important for the carrier to be dedicated to safety.

Communication is also key to drivers, with 100 percent of drivers surveyed saying that their relationship with company dispatchers was important to their longevity with a company. Ninety-seven percent placed the same importance on mass fleet communications and 81 percent on their driver manager and other management.

"Be clear in your communications with drivers and ensure that the underlying message is always one of appreciation and respect," the report said.