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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 food 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.

Due to their selfless service, truckers become an inspiration to many, with some seriously considering a career 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. For guidance on evaluating a trucking company, consider factors such as fleet size, home time, and company culture.

If you've already got what seems like a solid offer of employment from a trucking company, well, that's excellent 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 must ensure that the company's offering is commensurate with the service you will provide to them. You must also find out all the details about home time and vacation time, as these are essential for your overall well-being.

Knowing the answers to the top interview questions truckers need to ask will help you determine if there's a need to negotiate 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 its age will have a significant impact on your day-to-day driving. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of these details before you begin 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 for a comfortable ride. Paying attention to truck readiness and trip planning tips can help ensure that the vehicle meets your needs before you hit the road.

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 allow drivers to “slip seat”?
Will the company put me in a truck immediately after I am hired?
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, especially as it relates to your expected daily life on the road.

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 is 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. Since the length, venue, and payment often vary by company, it is important to know these details before the orientation day to avoid unnecessary hassle when starting a professional driving career.

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 cover all travel expenses?
Will I share a room with another new hire?
Is there some agility or fitness test?
Are meals provided during the orientation?
Are pets or passengers allowed to accompany the driver to the orientation?
Should the driver reimburse the company for his orientation expenses if he does not drive for a specified period of time?

Questions about the company

To gain a sense of who you will be working for, 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 often away from home for days, weeks, or even months at a time. 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 currently have?
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?