Onboarding Drivers: Get started the right way and avoid operational roadblocks

The process of recruiting and onboarding drivers demands a lot of time and resources. Right onboarding is getting a candidate that is the right fit for the position. It provides a better employee experience and establishes a strong relationship with drivers. It further reduces the driver turnover rate, which was as high as 89% in 2021. This impacts business outcomes as driver turnover can cost anywhere between $2,243 to $20,729.

Simple Steps for Onboarding Drivers

1. Application & Screening Process
   Drivers must apply online or in person. The screening process also involves background checks, driving record checks, and drug test.
2. Training & Orientation
   Drivers must undergo mandatory process and safety training programs. They also get to know the company’s culture and daily operations.
3. Equipment & Vehicle Inspection
   Drivers should check the vehicles they will be driving to ensure safety. This includes checking tire pressure, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.
4. On-the-Job Support
   Ongoing support is important for drivers. The support can be provided with regular check-ins, ongoing training, and performance feedback.

How to Streamline the Process of Onboarding Drivers

1. Automate Paperwork
   Manual paperwork asking for the same information multiple times can make the process of onboarding drivers chaotic. Automating the paperwork will efficiently collect the information and speed up the onboarding process.
2. Prioritize Mobile-friendly Forms
   The majority of drivers prefer using mobile devices to search and apply for a job. They also prefer completing the onboarding formalities through mobile phones. Using responsive UI design and mobile-friendly digital forms will streamline the process of onboarding drivers.
3. Provide Online Onboarding Training
   Enabling drivers to complete onboarding from their homes will shorten the orientation process. Drivers can access video training anytime, anywhere. This provides the flexibility to learn on demand.

Operational Roadblocks That Can be Tackled by Effectively Onboarding Drivers

1. Cost Management
   Right onboarding reduces driver turnover. Moreover, proper orientation and training result in improved efficiency. This helps companies save operational costs and increase revenues.
2. Safety & Security
   Providing safety training can help drivers understand company safety policies and operating procedures. Cybersecurity training while onboarding drivers can prevent sensitive data breaches.
3. Lack of Skilled Drivers
   Onboarding can include skills training required for the transportation industry. This can include defensive driving techniques, cargo handling, and route planning. This can help drivers become more skilled and proficient at their job.
4. Lack of Optimal Resource Utilization
   Right boarding improves productivity and communication. This helps companies to optimize their resources. This can lead to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved overall performance.
5. Communication Barrier
   The right onboarding programs consider language barriers and cultural sensitivity. This improves the communication between drivers and management and increases the feeling of inclusivity. This can lead to better performance, fewer misunderstandings, and better internal communication.

Read More: 5 Ways to Boost Driver Retention & Reduce Turnover

Simplify Onboarding and Driver Management with Zeo Route Planner

1. Onboard Drivers within Five Minutes
   Upload pickup and delivery stops, create delivery routes and automatically assign multiple routes to drivers in a single click using Zeo.
2. Auto Assign Stops as per Driver Availability
   Zeo will intelligently auto-assign all the delivery stops based on driver location.
3. Get Live Updates on Driver Location and Operations
   You can provide a transparent view of the delivery progress to increase customer satisfaction. Zeo also provides an estimated ETA along with the driver’s location.

Read More: Improve Customer Service with Zeo’s Route Planner

4. Track Route Progress and Get Detailed Reports
   Zeo Route Planner makes identifying drivers with the most number of deliveries easy. The reports also provide insights into the average delivery speed and customer ratings.

Conclusion

Reducing operational roadblocks is a major concern for fleet managers. Driver safety, engagement, and retention are some other concerns they have. The right way of onboarding drivers can help them build strong relationships with drivers and address various challenges.

Robust fleet management and route optimization software like Zeo can help fleet managers to effectively onboard drivers. Schedule a free product demo to witness how Zeo works its magic and improves the onboarding experience and driver retention rate.