Learn More about Your Potential Trucking Employer with These 50 Questions

September 07, 2020

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Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of the coronavirus pandemic. While many Americans are ordered to stay at home and avoid unnecessary travel during the coronavirus crisis, truckers continue to hit the road to deliver essential goods, such as foods and medical supplies, that keep the country moving. Although their efforts are often taken for granted, many people do recognize them and show their appreciation by sending a message using the hashtag #ThankaTrucker.

Because of their selfless service, truckers become an inspiration to many, with some seriously considering getting on board in the trucking industry as well. If you are among them, then choosing a potential trucking employer is something that you should not take lightly. Trucking is not for everyone, but the right employer can make your experience all worthwhile and rewarding.

If you've already got what it seems like a solid offer of employment from a trucking company, well, that's great news. But, in case your recruiter is not as transparent as you'd expected, then you'd better ask these 50 questions during the interview. Not only does it help you learn more about your potential trucking employer, but it can also save you the trouble of accepting a job that does not work for you.

Questions about the compensation and pay

Pay and benefits are some of the most important factors you must consider before accepting a trucking job offer. You have to make sure that what the company is offering is commensurate with the service that you will provide for them. You must also find out all the details about home time and vacation time because these are highly necessary for your overall well-being.

Knowing the answers to the 50 questions below will help you determine if there's a need for you to negotiate with the terms and conditions. Be sure to have a list of non-negotiable items ready so that the company knows what's important to you.

How much does the company pay?
Is pay based on a per-mile rate or an hourly rate?
What are the benefits being offered by the company?
How long must the driver be in the company to become eligible for the benefits?
Does the company offer a signing bonus?
Does the company have a fuel bonus, safety bonus, or performance bonus program?
When does the pay period start and end?
Does the company provide paid time off?
Is commercial truck insurance paid by the driver or by the company?
Do you provide layover or breakdown pay?

Questions about the equipment

The type of truck you use and the age of the truck will have a big impact on your day-to-day driving. So, it is highly important to know these details before you start driving for any trucking company. As a trucker, your truck will be your home away from home, so it must have the basic amenities you need to have a comfortable ride.

What type of trucks does the company have?
What is the average age of the company’s trucks?
What amenities do the trucks come with?
Where can I park the truck during the home time?
Will my truck be taken away or reassigned if I take extended home time?
Does the company assign drivers to trucks or “slip seat” drivers?
Will the company put me in a truck immediately after hiring?
Does the company use a computer program to track the location of all its trucks, tractors, or trailers at any given time?
Am I responsible for truck maintenance?
How many terminals does the company have and where are they?

Questions about the operations

Knowing all the important operational details before you even start working will make you feel more confident about the job. Details such as the type of freight that the company hauls, how driver’s miles are calculated, or if the driver has the right to refuse a dispatch will give you an idea of whether the job will work for you or not.

What kinds of freight does the company haul?
Where does the freight go?
What are the ratios of driver managers to drivers and load planners to trucks?
How do you calculate the driver’s miles?
How much of the freight is drop-and-hook?
How much of the freight are live load and live unload?
What happens if the driver refuses to take a dispatch because of a valid reason?
Do you have multiple stop loads?
Do you use paper logs or e-logs?
Which system is used if the company uses e-logs?

Questions about the new hire orientation

Orientation is the first step in the driving training process for newly hired truckers. And the length, the venue, and payment often vary in every company. It's important to know these details before the orientation day to avoid unnecessary hassle.

Will I receive an orientation pay?
How long does the company’s orientation process last?
Where will the orientation be?
How do I get there—by bus, plane, train, or rental car?
Will the company pay for all travel arrangements?
Will I share a room with another new hire?
Is there some kind of agility or fitness test?
Are meals provided during the orientation?
Are pets or passengers allowed to attend the orientation with the driver?
Should the driver pay the company back for his orientation expenses if he does not drive for a certain period of time?

Questions about the company

To get a sense of who you will be working for, you must ask the general questions below. And if you are considering long haul trucking, you must know what the company's home-time policy. Long-haul drivers are usually away from home for days, weeks, or even months on end. If your potential employer promises one day off a week, make sure to clarify how it defines a day.

Is the company publicly or privately held?
How many drivers does the company have?
What is the company’s passenger policy?
How long does the average driver stay with the company?
What is the company’s turnover rate?
How many idle or empty trucks does the company have right now?
What is the company’s culture like?
What do your current drivers say about the company culture?
What is the company’s home-time policy?
Is the company open to receiving information about consignees or shippers provided by drivers?