Driving a truck can be a fun job. However, it’s important to take it seriously. In this way, you’ll be able to succeed.
One of the best ways to ensure your success is to know what to ask during the interview.
Not sure what to ask? Wondering what questions truck drivers want to ask employers? Keep reading for the five must-ask driver questions.
What is the Equipment you will have to Operate?
There are many different types of equipment that a company may ask a truck driver to operate. This could include a standard truck, a tanker truck, a flatbed truck or even a forklift to complete your job. Each type of vehicle and equipment has its own set of safety procedures that must be followed in order to operate.
Some companies may require that drivers have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), while others may not.
What is the Pay and Benefits Package?
Some Company will pay a trucking professional typically by the mile, with a per-mile rate that depends on the type of freight and the region of the country. Some trucking companies offer a flat rate per week or per month, regardless of how many miles are driven.
It is also best to ask if truck drivers may include health insurance, life insurance, and a 401k plan. Some trucking companies also offer additional benefits, such as paid holidays and vacations, tuition reimbursement, and sign-on bonuses.
What are the Company’s Policies on Hours of Service and Driver Fatigue?
Trucking companies will usually have a strict policy on hours of service and driver fatigue for truck drivers. You should know during the application if the company allows drivers to work more than 10 hours a day and breaks within a trip. Some policies they have will ensure that drivers will take a 24-hour rest period after every 70 hours of driving.
Policies about drive fatigue may have slight differences between each employer, so be sure to ask them about their hours of service and driver fatigue policies.
What are the Company’s Policies on Driver Safety?
For companies like ITG Transport, safety is always a priority for drivers. However, it will give you peace of mind to have an idea of how the company values driver safety.
Are you expected to work in poor weather conditions? Questions like that may also give you a heads up on the company’s rules and regulations around driver safety.
Asking about these policies may also give you some idea about the technology and business operations the company has when it comes to performing your job safely.
Does the Company have Slip Seat Policy?
If you are an experienced driver, it is important to know firsthand if they have a slip seating policy. You will be sharing the truck with another driver. Although companies may give you tax incentives for slip seating, this will also mean moving your things from one truck to another, depending on which truck is available.
Other Driver Questions you Should Consider
You also want to know what their guidelines are when it comes to truck maintenance. Knowing what is your part in maintaining your truck will make your work a lot easier.
Driver questions, such as asking if the company has a process for career growth or promotion, are also important. It will be something to look forward to when accepting any type of job.