The Unsung Heroes of Thanksgiving: How Truck Drivers Make It All Possible

As Thanksgiving approaches, families across America gather around dinner tables, enjoying feasts filled with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. But behind every holiday meal, every ingredient on the table, and every product on the shelves, there’s a dedicated truck driver working tirelessly to ensure everything arrives on time. At Mercer Transportation, we know the sacrifices our drivers make, and we are incredibly grateful for the role they play in making this cherished holiday happen for millions of Americans.

The Numbers Behind Thanksgiving Logistics

Did you know that over 70% of all goods in the U.S. are delivered by trucks? During the holiday season, that number becomes even more significant, with an estimated 55 million turkeys transported each Thanksgiving season, according to the National Turkey Federation. Additionally, the American Farm Bureau Federation estimates that grocery store shelves are stocked with over 250 million pounds of potatoes and more than 770 million pounds of cranberries— all thanks to the hard work of truck drivers. Without these deliveries, Thanksgiving celebrations across the country would come to a halt.

Truck drivers don’t just move food; they transport decorations, furniture, and countless other goods that make Thanksgiving special. From the moment crops are harvested to the second they reach our tables, drivers are behind the wheel, ensuring that every family can celebrate with a warm, home-cooked meal.

Sacrifices Made for Thanksgiving

While most of us are at home preparing for the big meal or spending time with loved ones, many drivers are still on the road. More than 10% of America’s 3.5 million truck drivers are expected to work over Thanksgiving weekend, ensuring that last-minute shipments make it to stores. For some, this means spending the holiday away from their own families, sacrificing their personal time to deliver for others. We at Mercer Transportation are acutely aware of this, and we are deeply thankful for the dedication of our owner-operators during this busy season.

A Heartfelt Thank You from Mercer Transportation

To our drivers—thank you. We know it’s not easy being away from home during such an important time, and we recognize the effort it takes to keep America’s wheels turning. Your hard work and commitment to delivering on time make Thanksgiving possible for so many families. From the entire Mercer team, we extend our deepest gratitude for your dedication. You are truly the unsung heroes of this holiday season, and we are proud to have you as part of the Mercer family.

As you continue your journeys this Thanksgiving, please know that your efforts do not go unnoticed. You are the reason millions of Americans can gather around the table and give thanks, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.

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