Company drivers and owner-operators — does the trucking company you work for provide:

• The guidance and support you need?
• The compensation and work/life balance you deserve?
• Opportunities for advancement?
• Protection from harassment in the office and on the road?

If so — and you’re happy where you work — you can now nominate your carrier for the 2012 Best Fleet to Work For contest and survey. The contest is open to all carriers with 10 or more trucks, with categories for the Best Overall Fleet for Owner Operators and Best Overall Fleet for Company Drivers. The nomination period for 2012 awards just began — and only drivers can make nominations.

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) and CarriersEdge started the annual competition in 2009 to find and spotlight exceptional trucking companies — and share their best practices with the transportation industry and general public. They recognized that trucking companies need more than solid rigs, established freight lanes and well-paying loads to create lasting profitability. Satisfied drivers who loyally deliver the products day after day, year after year, are necessary for success. But, with driver shortages, constantly changing regulations and increased push for accountability, creating satisfaction and loyalty can be harder than ever. By showcasing fleets that drivers feel proud to work for — and publicizing their best practices — TCA and CarriersEdge hope to help other companies foster driver loyalty and company success.

According to TCA President Chris Burress, “Every carrier can benefit from what [the Best Fleet to Drive For contest and survey] has to teach us.”

To learn more about the 2011 winners’ best practices or nominate your employer, visit the Best Fleet to Drive For.