10 Questions To Ask Trucking Companies

Are you considering a career in the trucking industry? As you embark on this new journey, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible about the trucking companies you’re interested in. But where do you start? What are the key questions you should be asking?

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, asking the right questions can make all the difference in finding the perfect fit for your career. It’s not just about the paycheck, but also about the routes, driving opportunities, pay structure, benefits, and more. To help you navigate through the sea of trucking companies, I’ve compiled a list of 10 essential questions that will give you the insights you need to make an informed decision.

From the type of routes they offer to their hiring guidelines and pay structure, these questions will help you uncover vital information about the trucking companies you’re considering. Don’t settle for just any job – find the trucking company that aligns with your goals, preferences, and values.

So, are you ready to dive deep and discover the key questions you should be asking trucking companies? Let’s get started on this journey together and find the perfect fit for your trucking career.

General Questions to Ask Trucking Companies

When considering a career in the trucking industry, it’s important to ask the right questions to gather essential information about potential trucking companies. By understanding the company’s routes, driving opportunities, freight handling, and driver advancement options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.

Questions to Ask:

1. What kind of routes does the company offer?
2. What types of driving opportunities are available?
3. Which states/regions does the company primarily haul in?
4. Do drivers need to sign a contract?
5. What percentage of the company’s freight is no-touch?
6. How much of the company’s freight is drop-and-hook?
7. Does the company provide special training for manual freight handling?
8. How much of the company’s freight requires live load and unload?
9. Can drivers transfer to new driving positions within the company?
10. Does the company offer career advancement opportunities?

Asking these general questions will give you a better understanding of the company’s operations, the type of work you can expect, and the potential for growth within the organization. It’s crucial to have a clear picture of what a trucking company can offer before making a decision.

Next, let’s explore some key questions related to pay and compensation within a trucking company.

Questions about Pay

When considering a trucking company, it’s important to understand their pay structure and how it will impact your earnings. Here are some crucial questions to ask regarding pay, bonuses, raises, and benefits:

1. How does the company pay drivers?
2. What is the starting pay for drivers with my experience?
3. How much can I expect to earn over my first year?
4. How often do drivers get paid?
5. Does the company offer overtime pay?
6. Do miles/schedules fluctuate week to week?
7. Are there opportunities for raises?
8. Does the company offer sign-on bonuses?
9. Does the company provide accessorial pay?
10. When can drivers expect their first paycheck?
11. Are safety bonuses offered?
12. Are performance bonuses offered?
13. Are longevity bonuses offered?
14. Is there a referral bonus program?
15. Is there guarantee pay for new drivers?
16. Is there an on-demand cash advance program?
17. Does the company cover additional expenses like truck washes?
18. Does the company provide a fuel card?

Asking these questions will give you a comprehensive understanding of the trucking company’s pay structure, potential earnings, and the various bonuses and benefits they offer. It’s essential to have a clear picture of how your pay will be structured before making a decision.

Questions about Benefits

When considering a career with a trucking company, it’s important to understand the benefits they offer. Here are some essential questions you should ask to gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits package:

1. Does the company offer benefits to drivers?
2. What does the benefits package include?
3. How long do drivers need to be with the company to be eligible for benefits?
4. Is there a 401(k) plan with a company match?
5. Does the company provide paid vacation and holidays?
6. How much paid time off do new drivers start with?
7. Do drivers earn more paid time off the longer they’re with the company?
8. Can drivers cash out unused paid time off?
9. Is there a per diem pay program?
10. Is the per diem pay program mandatory?
11. Does the company have a driver loyalty program?
12. Does the company have terminals?
13. What amenities are offered at the terminals?
14. Does the company offer military-specific benefits?
15. Does the company credit drivers for military experience?
16. Does the company provide guaranteed home time for active service members?

Asking these questions will help you understand the healthcare coverage, vacation time, retirement plans, and other benefits offered by the trucking company.

Vacation Time and Retirement Plans

One crucial aspect to consider when evaluating a trucking company is the vacation policy and retirement plans they offer. Understanding how much paid time off you’ll receive and the eligibility requirements is essential for planning your personal time and rest. Additionally, finding out if the company provides a 401(k) plan with a company match can be a significant benefit for your long-term financial goals.

“Vacation time and retirement plans are important considerations when choosing a trucking company. It’s essential to have a healthy work-life balance and plan for your financial future.”

Understanding the vacation time and retirement plans will help you make an informed decision about the trucking company that aligns with your personal and financial goals.

Questions about Equipment

When it comes to choosing a trucking company, understanding their equipment and maintenance support is essential. Here are some important questions to ask:

1. What types of trucks does the company use?
2. What is the average age of the company’s tractors and trailers?
3. How often are trucks serviced?
4. Do the company’s trucks have manual or automatic transmissions?
5. How many miles are put on the trucks before they are taken out of the fleet?
6. Do the company’s trucks have cameras installed? If so, are they forward-facing or road-facing?
7. What fuel efficiency features do the company’s trucks have?
8. What driver comfort features do the company’s trucks have?
9. Do the company’s trucks come with APUs, bunk heaters, power inverters, refrigerators, and/or microwaves?
10. What size bedding do drivers need?
11. What electronics are provided to drivers?
12. Does the company use electronic logs? Do they provide an ELD?
13. What kind of maintenance support does the company provide?
14. Does the company offer roadside assistance?
15. Does the company have their own repair shops?

Asking these questions will give you valuable insight into the trucking company’s equipment quality, driver comfort, and their commitment to maintenance support. It’s essential to ensure that the company provides reliable and well-maintained equipment to support your journey on the road.

Questions about Safety

When choosing a trucking company to work for, it’s essential to prioritize safety. By asking the right questions about safety features, driving policies, safety incentives, and training programs, you can ensure that you’re joining a company that is committed to keeping its drivers safe on the road.

What driver safety features do the company’s trucks have?

It’s crucial to inquire about the safety features available in the company’s trucks. Features such as collision mitigation systems, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control can significantly enhance driver safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

What speed are the company’s trucks governed at?

Understanding the speed at which the company’s trucks are governed is important for maintaining safe driving practices. This can help prevent excessive speeding and promote adherence to legal speed limits.

What is the company’s policy on driving in bad weather?

Weather conditions can pose significant challenges for truck drivers. Inquiring about the company’s policy regarding driving in bad weather can give you insight into their commitment to safety. Look for companies that prioritize driver well-being and prioritize safety over delivery deadlines.

Does the company provide tire chains when required?

In regions with snowy or icy conditions, tire chains may be necessary for safe driving. Ask if the company provides tire chains when required and what support they offer to drivers during inclement weather.

What is the company’s safety record?

Researching the company’s safety record can provide valuable information about their commitment to safety. Look for companies with a strong safety track record and low accident rates.

What safety incentives does the company offer?

Incentives can be a powerful motivator for safe driving. Ask about any safety incentive programs the company has in place, such as bonuses for accident-free driving or recognition for exemplary safety records.

Does the company have ongoing safety training programs for drivers?

Ongoing safety training is crucial for keeping drivers up-to-date on best practices and industry regulations. Inquire about the company’s safety training programs to ensure that their drivers receive regular training to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Questions about CDL Training and Orientation

When considering a trucking company, it’s essential to gather information about their CDL training and orientation programs. Asking the right questions will help you understand how they support new drivers and prepare them for the road. Here are some key questions to ask:

1. Can the company help me get a CDL?
2. Does the company offer its own CDL training courses?
3. How long is the company’s CDL training course?
4. Where are the CDL training courses held?
5. What is covered in the CDL training course?
6. Does the company pay drivers during CDL training?
7. Does the company provide food and lodging during CDL training?
8. How much on-the-road experience do drivers get during the CDL training course?
9. If the company doesn’t provide CDL training, do they offer tuition reimbursement?
10. What drivers are eligible for tuition reimbursement?
11. How much is the tuition reimbursement?
12. How is tuition reimbursement paid out?
13. How long is the company’s orientation?
14. What is covered in the company’s orientation?
15. Where is the orientation held?
16. Does the company pay drivers during orientation?
17. Are drivers paid to attend orientation?
18. Does the company provide food and lodging during orientation?
19. Do drivers share rooms during orientation?
20. Does the company pay for travel arrangements to orientation?
21. How much of orientation is spent on the road?
22. What is required to bring to orientation?
23. What is the company’s dress code for orientation?

Asking these questions will help you determine how the company supports and trains new drivers, as well as the resources and support they provide during this crucial transition period. It’s important to fully understand the training and orientation process to ensure a successful start to your trucking career.

“The CDL training and orientation process is a critical phase for new drivers. Understanding the company’s approach, policies, and support in these areas is essential for a smooth transition into the trucking industry.”

Conclusion

Choosing a trucking company is a critical decision in your career. By asking the right questions about routes, pay, benefits, equipment, safety, training, and orientation, you can gather the information you need to make an informed decision. It’s important to consider your personal preferences and lifestyle needs as you evaluate different trucking companies. The key is finding the right fit that aligns with your goals and values, ensuring a successful and satisfying career in the trucking industry.

When choosing a trucking company, you want to make sure it offers routes and driving opportunities that suit your preferences. Consider the type of freight handling required and the company’s policy on drop-and-hook and manual freight handling. Additionally, evaluate the company’s pay structure, including starting pay, potential earnings, and opportunities for raises and bonuses. Look for competitive benefits packages that provide healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Furthermore, pay attention to the company’s equipment and safety features. Inquire about the age and maintenance of their trucks, as well as the driver comfort features provided. Safety should be a top priority, so ask about the company’s safety record, driving policies, and training programs. Finally, consider the company’s CDL training and orientation process, including the availability of tuition reimbursement and the support provided during training.