Establishing Expectations With New Drivers: A Quick Guide for Grads of Dispatch Schools

The dispatcher and truck driver relationship is extremely important. Building trust and goodwill from the get-go can make all the difference in both the dispatcher and driver’s productivity and job satisfaction. And because the trucking industry can have a high turnover rate, it’s especially crucial for dispatchers to set clear expectations with drivers in the beginning, so there are no unfortunate surprises as time goes on.

If you’re interested in a dispatching career, read on to learn more about establishing expectations with your future truck drivers.

Have a Discussion with Drivers About Availability After Dispatch School

What sets the best graduates of dispatch schools apart from the rest is their ability to understand the daily challenges and experiences of truck drivers. Many drivers work alone, and are away from their loved ones for days or weeks at a time. That’s why when it comes to their availability and scheduling, most drivers are protective of their home time. Because of this, it’s wise to set expectations regarding your driver’s availability right from the beginning.

Have an open discussion about how long they can be away from home. For example, some drivers may need be home more often to take care of their children, while others may be fine with being away for weeks at a time. By clearing the air right away, you can do your best to ensure your drivers stay happy and get the best routes for their availability.

Grads of Dispatch Schools Should Encourage an Expectation of Open Communication

To ensure the relationship between a dispatcher and driver stays healthy and positive, it’s important to set clear expectations regarding communication right away. When someone is unsatisfied with how they are being treated or scheduled, their frustration will fester and build. This is bound to lead to an unfortunate situation where one party feels betrayed by or disappointed in the other.

In order to completely avoid this after dispatcher training, make it clear with your drivers that you expect open communication both ways. Let them know that they can always, respectfully, come to you with any challenges or issues they are having. By ensuring the lines of communication are open, you can do your job dispatching loads more effectively, and your driver will be happier to accommodate your requests.

Discuss What Types of Loads the Driver Will Be Carrying

Another expectation that’s important to set with new drivers is the type of load they will be carrying. Some drivers may only have a certain type of truck that allows them to carry a certain type of merchandise. In addition, many drivers have a preference for the types of loads they like to carry.

For example, some drivers are uncomfortable with delivering dangerous loads, such as gasoline or flammable materials, while other drivers love the challenge. Discussing these specifications up front with new drivers ensures there are no miscommunications down the road and no driver is ever put into a situation they are uncomfortable with. In addition, this helps dispatchers ensure they are never stuck after agreeing to a load that no driver is willing to deliver.

Did you know our truck dispatcher courses in BC can lead to many different careers in the transportation industry?

Don’t wait. Contact Automotive Training Centres today to learn more!