Truck drivers play an important economic role in the transportation of goods and commodities across the country. They are responsible for ensuring timely and safe delivery of products, which is essential for businesses to meet customer needs and maintain their supply chain. Truck drivers are also an important part of many small businesses. They play an important role in transport and transportation.
A great truck driver can be a great part of customer service. The truck driver may be someone who meets other local business owners as pickups and deliveries are made. An outgoing, friendly, and experienced driver can bring in more business.
This is why hiring a highly qualified and skilled candidate for the job is so important.
Trucking Industry
The US trucking industry is important and thriving, with a high demand for truck drivers due to the transportation needs of various industries. For those interested in being a part of this industry, knowing how to become a truck driver is important.
Although the industry may be subject to fluctuations influenced by economic conditions, fuel prices, and regulatory changes, the demand for truck drivers remains strong even during challenging economic times. Truck drivers are an important part of the supply chain, and being an owner-operated truck driver can be a profitable business for some.
The Hiring Process: Step by Step
Here are the steps you should take as you prepare to hire the right truck driver.
Crafting the Perfect Truck Driver Job Description
Job descriptions should include information about the role, responsibilities, required qualifications (licenses and certifications), work plan (OTR or location), and any specific skills or experience desired. It is important to be clear about expectations. Truck driver job descriptions are a useful guide for creating your own.
For example, some truck drivers are also responsible for deliveries. In other words, in one work situation, a truck driver backs a trailer to a loading dock, where workers from another company unload the truck. In another job situation, a truck driver may deliver goods.
It is also important to be clear about how the truck driver will be paid. Truck drivers can be paid by the hour, which is the most common, but some companies offer additional pay and benefits based on safe miles traveled.
Where to Find Truck Drivers for Your Business
Employers can search websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Monster, as well as specialized trucking job platforms and boards like TruckingTruth or CDLjobs.com as good places to post job listings.
Also, local truck driver hiring companies can look to the ranks of retired OTR (over the road) truck drivers. After 20 years or more with one of the nation’s largest OTR trucking companies, an OTR driver may decide to stay local. That can be due to the dynamic changes of the driver’s family, which encourages the truck driver’s desire to spend more time at home, or because of the retiree’s desire to earn more money.
Employers can also register with truck driver training schools and industry-specific organizations. You may also find unusual ways to promote job openings.
Truck Driving Licenses and Certificates
Truck drivers generally need a Commercial Driver License (CDL), which comes in different classes (A, B, and C) depending on the type of vehicle they will be driving. Additional permits may be required for certain activities, such as hazardous materials or passenger transport.
Job Evaluation Applications for Truck Drivers
| Conditions | Importance | Methods of verification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving record | Serious | Background check, DMV records | Check for a history free of accidents and DUIs. |
| Level of Experience | At the top | Resume, previous job verification | Check the number of years in truck driving and the types of vehicles used. |
| Certificates | Mandatory | Document authentication | Verify CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) and any other required certifications. |
| Drug Testing | Mandatory | Drug testing | A negative drug test is often required before employment. |
| Physical fitness | Important | Medical tests | A DOT medical card is usually required. |
| References | It’s in between | Contacting previous employers | Confirm knowledge and credibility by using references. |
| Aptitude Test | It is flexible | Practical driving test | It may be necessary depending on the goods being transported. |
| Personality Fit | It’s in between | Interviews, personality tests | Ensuring that the candidate fits the company’s culture can reduce turnover. |
| Availability | It’s in between | Interview questions | Check willingness to work long hours, weekends, or various shifts. |
| Legal Eligibility | Mandatory | Background check, document verification | Ensure that the candidate is legally authorized to work in the country and operate a commercial vehicle. |
Review resumes and applications to ensure they meet minimum qualifications. Check driving records, check background, and verify previous employment. Once you’ve identified candidates in the initial screening, you can ask those qualified truck drivers to submit to a pre-employment drug test. Make sure you also take steps to reduce hiring bias.
Interview Process for Truck Drivers
Ask questions about their driving experience, compliance with safety laws, and their ability to handle long hours on the road. Behavioral and situational questions can also help test their problem-solving skills.
Also, ask applicants about their preferred work hours and routes. And since not everyone will qualify, have an interview rejection letter for those who don’t meet your criteria.
Practical Testing and Evaluation of Truck Drivers
Depending on the role, you may want to take a driving test to test the student’s skills. This may include a road test, support supervision, and an assessment of their ability to handle the type of truck they will be driving. You can use the training plan template for this section.
You can also take a written test to cover truck driver rules and safety procedures.
Background Checks and References when Hiring Truck Drivers
Make the necessary phone calls or contacts to verify the person’s driving record and employment history. It’s a good time to think about whether or not you should hire a family member.
If you see that the truck driver applicant has worked in different states, be sure to check the driving record in those states.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Truck Drivers
Common mistakes include not properly checking driving records, failing to verify employment history, neglecting to detail physical fitness requirements, failing to conduct practical tests when required, and not explaining how to onboard new employees. Here’s a guide on how to onboard new employees.
Another common mistake is not properly defining the range of duties expected of the driver. For example, in some cases, the truck driver may return to the home port on time. Is the driver expected to complete an 8-hour shift working at the dock and unloading cargo? Or work outside, hooking trucks to trailers so they can work the next day?
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Hire a Truck Driver
What is the difference between local truck drivers and OTR truck drivers?
OTR (Over-The-Road) drivers are typically long-distance drivers who cover long distances and spend long periods away from home. Local drivers work in a specific area and usually return home every day or every week.
How often do truck drivers renew their licenses or certificates?
Truck drivers need to renew their CDL and any endorsements regularly. This usually involves passing a written test and a skills test.
The frequency of renewal varies by state and the type of license or endorsement.
How do I hire a local truck driver?
Companies can find qualified truck drivers through job postings, industry-specific events and job fairs, employee referrals, and partnerships with trucking schools or training programs.
How much does it cost to hire a truck driver?
Costs can vary greatly depending on factors such as job posting advertising costs, background checks, drug tests, training costs, and administrative costs. It is important to budget for these costs when planning your hiring process.
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