Questions Every Trucker Should Ask When Job Hunting

Trucking is a lucrative industry in 2022, with many companies looking for qualified candidates to transport loads on a local, regional, and long distance basis. Though there are currently many great job opportunities for truckers, it may take some time to find the right one. Every trucker searching for a job that fits their salary and lifestyle expectations should ask the following questions during their job interview.

Driving Routes

Which routes do your drivers commonly take?
How many miles can I expect to drive per month, on average?
How many miles away from home will I be expected to travel?

Load And Truck Details

Do drivers ever have to unload?
What are the deadline policies for delivering goods?
In case of a missed delivery deadline, how will the company discipline the driver?
What is the company’s policy for missing deadlines caused by unforeseen circumstances (i.e., truck breakdowns, bad weather, traffic accidents, etc.)?
What kind of equipment do drivers need to start working?
Will my truck have an air-ride suspension system?
Will my truck have a sleep-in area?
How many tons will my assigned truck weigh?

Salary & Benefits

How often can drivers receive a raise?
What is a driver’s top earning potential in this position?
What is the promotion potential for this job?
What kinds of benefits does the company offer?
Do you offer your drivers full health insurance benefits?
Do you provide healthcare coverage for drivers’ families?
Do you offer short-term disability coverage?
Do you offer retirement benefits?
Do you provide drivers with opportunities to earn bonuses?
Do you offer new driver sign-on bonuses?

Time Off / Vacation

What is your company’s home-time policy?
How much time off can I expect to receive through the company’s home-time policy?
Will my days off vary or be consistent?
What is your policy for drivers who need extra time off (i.e., medical needs, injuries that occur outside of work, illness, family emergencies, etc.)?
Does the company offer paid vacation?
Do drivers earn more vacation time the longer they stay with the company?
Are there restrictions on when I can use my vacation time?
Do vacation days expire annually or can they be carried over into the next year?
How many vacation days can I accumulate before I must use them?