Over-The-Road Driver Onboarding Checklist

Over-The-Road Driver Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Over-The-Road Driver starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Transportation onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Over-The-Road Driver, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Over-The-Road Driver onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Over-The-Road Driver Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new Over-The-Road (OTR) driver attends an orientation session where they learn about the company’s policies, procedures, and safety regulations. This task is typically performed by the company’s HR department or a designated trainer.

2. Paperwork Completion: The driver completes all necessary paperwork, including employment contracts, tax forms, and insurance documents. This task is usually handled by the HR department or administrative staff.

3. Driver Training: The new OTR driver undergoes comprehensive training to familiarize themselves with the company’s equipment, driving techniques, and safety protocols. This training is typically conducted by experienced drivers or trainers within the company.

4. Route Familiarization: The driver is provided with detailed information about the routes they will be driving, including maps, GPS systems, and specific instructions. This task is usually performed by the dispatch or logistics department.

5. Vehicle Inspection: The driver conducts a thorough inspection of their assigned vehicle, checking for any mechanical issues, ensuring all safety equipment is in place, and documenting any damages. This task is performed by the driver themselves.

6. Load Securement: The driver learns how to properly secure and distribute the load they will be transporting, ensuring it is safe and compliant with regulations. This training is typically provided by experienced drivers or trainers.

7. Communication Setup: The driver is assisted in setting up communication devices, such as a two-way radio or a mobile phone, to stay connected with the company’s dispatch team. This task is usually performed by the IT department or a designated technician.

8. Hours of Service Compliance: The driver receives training on the company’s policies and procedures regarding hours of service regulations, ensuring they understand how to accurately log their driving and rest hours. This training is typically provided by the company’s safety or compliance department.

9. Trip Planning: The driver learns how to effectively plan their trips, considering factors such as fuel stops, rest areas, and potential road hazards. This task is usually performed by the driver themselves, with guidance from the dispatch or logistics department.

10. Customer Service Training: The driver undergoes customer service training to ensure they understand the importance of professionalism, communication, and problem-solving when interacting with customers. This training is typically provided by the company’s customer service or training department.

11. Emergency Procedures: The driver is trained on emergency procedures, including accident reporting, breakdowns, and adverse weather conditions. This training is typically provided by the company’s safety or compliance department.

12. Compliance with Regulations: The driver receives training on various regulations governing the transportation industry, such as Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, hazardous materials handling, and weight restrictions. This training is typically provided by the company’s safety or compliance department.

13. Company Policies and Benefits: The driver is educated on the company’s policies, including vacation and sick leave, benefits, and any employee assistance programs available. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated representative.

14. Performance Evaluation: The driver is informed about the company’s performance evaluation process, including how their performance will be assessed, feedback mechanisms, and opportunities for advancement. This task is typically performed by the driver’s supervisor or the HR department.

15. Ongoing Training and Development: The driver is made aware of any ongoing training and development opportunities provided by the company to enhance their skills and knowledge. This information is typically shared by the training or HR department

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Over-The-Road Driver checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Over-The-Road Driver up to speed and working well in your Transportation team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.