Mental Health in Freight: Why It Matters More Than Ever
- By All Means Freight Solutions
- May 5
- 3 min read
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a powerful reminder that wellness matters — in every industry, including freight.
From dispatch desks to loading docks, from brokers to drivers, the pressure in logistics is real. And while we’re moving freight, people are carrying the weight — of deadlines, long hours, tight windows, and constant problem-solving.
Let’s talk about it.
📊 The Mental Load in Freight: What the Numbers Say
🧍♂️ 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience a mental illness each year — that includes people working behind the wheel, on the phones, and at the docks.
🚛 85% of truck drivers report experiencing serious job-related stress, and 13% show signs of clinical depression.
🏗️ In a 2022 survey, 40% of logistics employees reported feeling regular burnout, citing communication breakdowns, unrealistic demands, and lack of support as key causes.
Stress is part of the job — but it shouldn't be ignored or normalized.
🤝 What Helps: Everyday Practices That Support Mental Health in Logistics
At By All Means Freight Solutions, we’ve seen how small shifts in how we communicate, and plan can make a big difference for everyone involved. Here are a few practices we believe can reduce stress across the board:
📞 1. Communicate Often and Clearly
No news is not good news in logistics. Silence breeds stress.
✅ Check in early✅ Set expectations clearly✅ Give updates — even if there’s no change
Fact: Teams that communicate clearly are 25% more productive and report significantly lower stress levels. (Source: Gallup)
🕐 2. Respect People’s Time
Tight schedules are a reality. But unnecessary rushes, last-minute changes, or lack of preparation are preventable stressors.
✅ Confirm appointments early✅ Be realistic about load/unload times✅ Plan ahead whenever possible
Did you know? Long hours and unpredictable schedules are top contributors to burnout in transportation. (APA)
🤗 3. Value Relationships Over Transactions
It’s easy to get caught in the cycle of just getting the job done — but respect, recognition, and consistency go a long way.
✅ Learn people’s preferences✅ Follow through on commitments✅ Give credit and show appreciation
Insight: Companies that build trust with partners see higher loyalty and resilience during disruptions. (McKinsey)
💬 Why This Conversation Matters
Mental health isn’t just a personal issue — it’s a logistics issue. When the people behind the freight feel supported, errors drop, collaboration improves, and morale goes up.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about paying attention.
At BAM, we believe logistics should support people — not wear them down. That’s what people-first freight means to us.
💚 This May, Let’s Make Space for Mental Health
Whether you’re a shipper, driver, dispatcher, warehouse lead, or broker — your mental health matters.
Let’s use Mental Health Awareness Month to open conversations, share what works, and take care of ourselves and each other.
👂 You don’t have to solve everything alone. 📣 You don’t need to have it all together to speak up. 🤝 You deserve support — not just when things go wrong, but every day.
📞 If You Need Help, You’re Not Alone
Mental health challenges can affect anyone. If you're feeling overwhelmed, please know there are resources available:
📱 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988 (24/7, free & confidential)
☎️ NAMI Help Line: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
📲 Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
If you’re outside the U.S., check with your local health provider for crisis support resources.
📞 Need a freight partner who understands the human side of logistics? We’re here to help — with respect, transparency, and communication that actually makes things easier.
📧 info@bamfrt.com | 📞 (908) 283-8671🌐 www.byallmeansfreightsolutions.com
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