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Commercial truck drivers are in hot demand right now. Drivers have abundant options on where to work, which means they can afford to take their time picking the right fleet to join. Whether you’re an owner-operator or a company driver, choosing the right carrier to work for will determine your success in the industry.
Our team is experts at hiring drivers at Nova Driver Services, and here are their tips on what drivers should ask when selecting which company to work for.
“What salary and compensation are you offering?”
Money matters, especially with inflations on the rise and a recession looming. Truck drivers are in hot demand, and the trucking industry is an essential part of the global supply chain, so make sure you’re being fairly compensated for your work. There is a truck driver shortage in Canada right now, meaning fleets are offering competitive rates. Still, you should do some research to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
“What is your company’s retention rate?”
This is a question not many people think to ask in an interview, but it says a lot about a company. You ideally want to join and invest your career in a company that will see your value and keeps you around. If the fleet has a high turnover rate, it either means the company doesn’t value its drivers or has poor management that is causing employees to leave.
“What do shift schedules and route distances look like?”
There are many different driving routes and schedules, from short, last-mile runs to long-haul routes. Work-life balance is incredibly important to many people today, so make sure you know what you’re getting into before you sign a contract to ensure it fits with your goals. It’s also a good idea to check how far the commute is from your home to the company.
“Is the truck dedicated?”
If you’re not an owner-operated, you’ll be using a company truck. This has both advantages, as it means you won’t be responsible for maintenance and repairs, but it could also mean you’re sharing with other drivers. Some drivers heavily prefer dedicated trucks, so make sure you ask about this during the interview process.
“Will I be an employee or an independent contractor?”
This may seem like an obvious question, but there can be confusion about whether drivers are hired as employees or contractors. Many fleets use the Driver Inc. model, which classifies employees as independent contractors. Essentially, drivers use company trucks but hire out their skills as contractors.
If you’re looking to start a lucrative career in trucking, or are looking for a new commercial driving position, contact Nova Driver Services or check out our online job board. We’d be happy to help connect you with one of the many trucking fleets we work with.
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