The United States continues to grapple with a persistent truck driver shortage, with the deficit reaching 60,800 drivers in 2018, a stark increase from the 36,000 shortfall recorded in 2016. The process of hiring truck drivers has become progressively challenging in recent years. Finding drivers who are not only ready to conquer the open road but also possess the proficiency to complete their tasks effectively is essential for any trucking business. This article aims to provide insights into the recruitment of high-quality truck drivers, outlining their prerequisites and offering guidance on where to discover potential hires.
First and Foremost: Prerequisites
CDL License: A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a mandatory requirement for operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Federal regulations stipulate that CDLs are granted to individuals aged 21 and above, though some states permit applications for single-state CDLs for those aged 18 to 20. CDLs come in various classes (Class A, Class B, and Class C), contingent on the type of vehicle to be operated. Renewal periods for CDLs differ by state and are based on the specific requirements of the trucking company.
Technical Certification and Experience: Specialized licenses, such as a Class C CDL for transporting hazardous materials (HazMat), necessitate expertise in the corresponding supply chain, such as the cold chain. Certification may also be obligatory for such roles.
Drug Tests: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), trucking companies have the legal authority to conduct drug and alcohol tests on potential hires, either prior to employment or if there are suspicions. Random testing is also mandatory, and after a fatal accident, a test must be conducted within 24 hours. Employers must obtain negative results before hiring new drivers.
Background Checks: Due to the considerable weight carried by CMVs, both federal and state departments of transportation mandate thorough screenings for prospective truck drivers. These screenings encompass Compliance Safety Accountability records, driver health, safety, working conditions, and a 10-year record of moving violations. Cross-border operations may require additional checks to comply with foreign regulations.
Key Skills: Beyond technical qualifications, truck drivers should possess the following skills:
Establishing positive customer relationships through a calm and friendly demeanor.
Demonstrating a consistent track record of punctuality and adherence to schedules, which is critical in the time-sensitive trucking industry.
Willingness to abide by state/federal laws and company policies.
Precise communication with schedulers, loaders, and dispatchers, especially concerning load status (consider utilizing a Trailer Tracker for accuracy).
Maintaining accurate records consistently.
Readiness to adapt to evolving technology within the industry.
Diversity: Diversity among drivers can bring significant advantages to a company. Consider the following groups:
Women: The trucking industry has seen a gradual increase in female drivers. Hiring women alongside men can broaden the pool of candidates and potentially enhance fleet safety.
Veterans: Veterans with experience in driving large vehicles often possess discipline, reliability, and a willingness to acquire new skills, making them valuable assets.
Finding Truck Drivers to Hire
Now that we've outlined the prerequisites, let's explore strategies for recruiting skilled truck drivers:
Online Trucking Job Portals: Utilizing online job portals is an efficient way to reach a wide audience. Some reputable portals for hiring truck drivers include:
Indeed
Google for Jobs
Glassdoor
Truck Driver Jobs 411
TruckDrivingJobsOnline.net
EPD Careers
EveryTruckJob.com
Jora
FlexJobs
JobiSite
For hiring experienced drivers, specialized portals like Truck Driver Jobs 411 and EveryTruckJob.com can be particularly useful. Ensure that your job postings include essential information, such as:
Primary operational areas.
Type of trucking (long or short haul).
Salary details.
Insurance coverage.
Benefits and perks.
Company policies.
Unique offerings that set your company apart from competitors.
Once the job requirements are posted, await applications from qualified candidates, conduct interviews, and complete the hiring process. While truck driver recruitment can be challenging in some regions, following these steps can streamline the process of finding exceptional candidates for your trucking business.
Sign in to leave a comment.