The driver shortage has been one of the most frequent challenges of trucking companies throughout the years. Data shows that there was a record of 296,311 truck-driver shortfalls during the second quarter of 2018. That is bad news, considering how the trucking industry’s demands will continue to increase as more people turn to the convenience of having their packages delivered instantly. Thus, more companies in the industry are trying out different ways to hire and retain good truck drivers to meet consumers’ expectations.
Being a truck driver is one of the most challenging jobs to fill. There are not enough eligible candidates with the needed skills to qualify for the job. Another main reason is that the average age for a truck driver is high. Data shows that 25% of truck drivers are 55 years old or older; thus, trucking companies have a hard time replacing retirees. Other workers also decide to quit the job because most companies have inadequate benefits for the workers; the pay is not that high, job hours are incredibly demanding, and more. Fortunately, here are some methods trucking companies can try out to hire and retain truck drivers.
What you should look for
When looking to hire truck drivers, it is essential to look into technical certifications and licenses. Other requirements include a Commercial Driver’s License, specialty licenses, and driving tests like the DMV 4-hour drug and alcohol test. Likewise, employers should thoroughly examine background checks to avoid future complications. Background checks are vital to identify whether there are recent moving violations, DUI history, prior convictions, risky medical conditions like sleep apnea, and more. It is best to have an in-depth review of the applicants to ensure the safety of others.
Specific skills can help you pick out and secure the best truck drivers for your company. Truck drivers primarily represent trucking companies; therefore, it is vital that companies choose the best people for the job. Make sure to find applicants that are flexible, patient, tact, independent, adaptable, and consistent. Having mechanical and technological knowledge can also be convenient for truck drivers.
Things to consider as an employer
Most trucking companies would stick to the standard of paying their drivers by the mile. Not only is this unreasonable, but it may cause more harm since truck drivers being paid by the mile would be hastily driving to deliver packages. It would be beneficial for the company and the driver to use different payment methods to sufficiently reward their employees for everything included in the job description.
The next thing a trucking company can improve on is the onboarding process. The company’s responsibility is to orient and assist the new drivers with its proper rules, regulations, and procedures. Proper orientation allows new employees to feel respected. This can also help them quickly adjust to the new environment and job. Similarly, providing the necessary tools and training for new drivers can be beneficial. In this way, drivers can be more comfortable while also promoting loyalty to the company.
Furthermore, having an excellent employee benefits package can ensure your employees’ loyalty. It is vital to think about the best benefits for the majority of the employees in a company. For example, benefits like paid sick and vacation days will be more appropriate for drivers with families. At the same time, young employees would preferably not set apart a part of their salaries toward health insurance that they will rarely use.
Lastly, companies should always prioritize how they treat their employees. It would be best to listen to the workers’ concerns and issues within the company. This way, employees will feel more appreciated and respected.
To conclude, almost all truck drivers will look for a great company that can treat them well and sufficiently pay them back for their work. Recruiting the best drivers might include a variety of different factors you can’t control. However, turning your company into an ideal business that most employees would prefer to work at can make the whole process incredibly easier.