In the world of logistics, a company's success heavily relies on skilled and dependable truck drivers. However, for startup companies, finding the right drivers can be the most challenging and time-consuming task. Unsurprisingly, around 80% of startup logistics companies struggle to hire the right drivers for their fleet.
In this blog post, we will explore how transportation startups can recruit truck drivers without upfront investment using the Truckers Database. This strategy can help secure not only your initial five drivers but also propel the growth of your business.
Truckers Database
When starting a trucking business, one of the crucial initial steps is to create a comprehensive list of truck drivers. This list should include all the truckers with whom you have had contact or have ever had contact. When creating a list like this, it's important not to rush through it. Take the time to carefully consider all the truckers you have had any contact with and include them in your list.
If you are currently a truck driver yourself, you can add to this list on a daily basis. Here's how:
Whenever you find yourself at a truck stop, pick-up or delivery facility, there are usually numerous drivers available to engage in conversation. Make an effort to talk to them, get acquainted, ask questions, and understand their experiences and preferences. Identify their pain points, meaning what they dislike about the company they are currently working for, as well as what they appreciate. By doing so, you'll gain insights into how you can present the best offer for your business while simultaneously expanding your database of truckers.
When creating a list, it's indeed beneficial to categorize the information. Categorizing the list allows for better organization, easy reference, and efficient management of the data. Your list should include:
Contact Information: Include the truck driver's name, phone number, email address, and any other relevant contact details.
Experience: Note the driver's years of experience, driving qualifications, endorsements, and any specialized training they may have.
Equipment Preferences: Record the type of equipment the driver prefers to operate, such as dry van, flatbed, or refrigerated trailers.
Geographic Preference: Determine the regions or specific lanes the driver prefers to operate in.
Availability: Note the driver's availability for work, including their desired schedule, preferred home time, and any limitations they may have.
Notes and Comments: Leave space for additional notes or comments where you can record any specific details or observations about the driver.
Owner Operators vs Company Drivers
When creating a list, it is indeed important to distinguish between owner-operators and company drivers. While owner-operators may be the primary focus for initial growth, company drivers still play a crucial role in the overall operations of the business. When contacting them, it is crucial to ask questions and understand their pain points. By doing so, you will understand if they are satisfied with their current employer or not. Focus on the following points:
Owner Operators:
How many trucks do they have?
What is their split? (The split refers to the percentage of gross income that the carrier company takes from them.)
What is included in that percentage?
How much does the current company charge them for cargo and liability insurance?
Can they choose their own loads? If not, what are the reasons behind this restriction?
Which areas do they typically drive in?
Does the company offer a fuel discount at gas stations?
Are there any other charges and fees included in their statements?
Company Drivers:
How many cents per mile are they paid?
What is their preferred equipment type?
Which areas do they typically drive in?
How many weeks do they stay on the road?
By gathering answers to these questions, you can gain valuable insights into the specific circumstances and preferences of the owner operators you are targeting. This information will enable you to create an offer that addresses their needs effectively. Remember, understanding the unique motivations of truck drivers is crucial in building strong partnerships and attracting them to work with your carrier company.
Building a truckers database and securing your first 5 drivers marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards establishing a successful trucking business. By collecting and organizing data and crafting a compelling offer you can set a solid foundation for your company's growth. Investing time and effort into nurturing relationships with your drivers will lead to a loyal and motivated team that contributes to your business's long-term success.
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