Driving Onboarding Frequently Asked Questions

In this video, we break down questions we’ve heard related to driver onboarding and talk about what we would do in that situation.

Question:

I had a driver fall asleep at the loading dock, causing a service failure.

Answer:

There’s 2 parts to this answer. Preventing it in the first place, and catching it when it happens. To prevent it, the best you can do is right up front, you should establish clear expectations with the driver. Specify conditions under which a driver can rest at a stop and ensure these are communicated effectively.

To catch it when it happens, use cameras to monitor the drivers or find them if they aren’t answering.

Question:

I interview a driver, then ask them to fill out an application and they don’t do it?

Answer:

Simplify the application process, especially considering many drivers fill forms via mobile devices. And more importantly, keep in mind that your interview is actually a sales pitch. You want to discover the driver's pain - then clearly explain how you can solve his or her pain and get them really excited about the opportunity so that they will overcome the hurdle by filling the application.

Simply put, if they don’t complete the application, I think it’s a sign that they aren’t interested enough in your job to overcome the hurdle which is a 75 question DOT application.

Question:

Drivers lie, which is discovered only after they fill out the full DOT application.

Answer:

In one way, this is a good thing and the reason for the application. However to make it faster and cheaper, start with just a PSP report early in the process to identify any potential risks without wasting much time or resources.

Question:

Drivers lie, which is discovered only after they fill out the full DOT application.

Answer:

In one way, this is a good thing and the reason for the application. However to make it faster and cheaper, start with just a PSP report early in the process to identify any potential risks without wasting much time or resources.

Question:

The driver claimed to have a lot of experience, then the road test was a different story?

Answer:

Again, this is a reason for the road test. If you aren’t doing them - START DOING THEM. And if you are doing them, great job. Don't rely solely on stated experience. Conduct comprehensive road tests that go beyond standard checklists to evaluate practical skills and procedural knowledge, including electronic logging and coupling techniques. This not only verifies competency but also reduces future safety and compliance risks.

In conclusion, successfully onboarding drivers is crucial to your success in the long term. Lots of issues can be avoided or the risk mitigated with proper onboarding. Setting proper expectations and training on even the basic things are keys for success.