Amazon TOM Team Drivers Unionize, Join Teamsters Local 89 in Kentucky

Amazon Truck Drivers Make History with Unionization

At Amazon's SDF9 facility in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, a significant milestone has been achieved. For the first time, a group of Amazon semi-truck and tractor-trailer drivers have joined forces with Teamsters Local 89. This marks a pioneering effort as these CDL drivers become the first of their kind nationwide to unionize under the Teamsters, setting a precedent that could inspire a wave of similar actions across the country.

Randy Korgan, Director of the Teamsters Amazon Division, emphasized the broader implications of this victory. "Amazon workers across the country will not accept crumbs from a multitrillion-dollar company that disrespects them,” he stated, highlighting that this movement is not limited to just warehouse workers or last-mile drivers. He further remarked, “TOM Team drivers at SDF9 are setting a game-changing precedent for others to follow by opening the door for thousands of other Amazon CDL drivers to join the Teamsters.”

Avral Thompson, President of Local 89 and Teamsters Central Region International Vice President, echoed these sentiments. "Local 89 couldn’t be prouder to welcome Amazon TOM Team drivers at SDF9 to our family," he said, noting the historical significance of their unionization efforts.

The drivers have been organizing discreetly for over a year, amidst Amazon's aggressive anti-union tactics. Known for its extensive financial investments in union-busting, Amazon faces a growing challenge as these drivers advocate for better pay, improved working conditions, and consistent policies.

Jeffrey King, a TOM Team driver at SDF9, expressed the drivers' motivations. “We’re joining the Teamsters to protect our rights and fight for a better future for ourselves, our families, and every Amazon TOM Team member,” he said, underlining the struggle against being treated as disposable workers.

This latest development adds to the momentum of nearly 10,000 Amazon workers in five states who have organized with the Teamsters, signaling a rising movement within the company. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, continues to represent over 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more insight, visit Teamster.org and follow on social media via @Teamsters on X and Facebook.