Childsafe, I'm a driver. I have been OTR for going on what is soon 6 years. I'm fairly new to expediting, but not new to driving for people.
What makes a good owner to drive for (in many drivers opinions and in my opinion)....
Ofcourse good equipment, comfortable equipment too.
A good drivers seat is a priority, something with multiple adjustments (air lumbar support too), be prepared to invest about $700 plus for something good. Bostrom is good.
Good Pay scale too certainly helps.
a competitive pay scale with perks...like if the truck makes over 6K in a month maybe toss the driver an extra 3 to 5 percent in his pay for the month/pay period as a thank you.
If he stays with you for 90 days give him 250 bucks?
Work with the driver, talk to him and treat him like he's a person and be a middle man for him so he doesn't feel like he's all alone out there.
Make sure he has what he needs to get the job done...load bars, straps and that they're all in good shape.
Let him know if he needs anything to let you know. don't hassle him every day, call him every 2-3 days. Have a phone conference with him once a week or every other week, whether it's 30 minutes or 2 hours.
Does the driver feel comfortable on the truck/in the truck. does it suit him/her well? that is to say is the TV working? does the truck need more storage boxes? are the switch lights working on the dash? little things matter. are the Cargo lights working?, you'd be surprised what can make a driver happier. Does it have a good CB?Remember that the driver is the one that is going to be calling the truck "Home" in a sense. Basically make sure the driver feels like a driver AND a Real Person, not a wheel holder or employee. If they need hometime work with them. I personally like to run out for 4 to 6 weeks plus then have a week or so off. Make sure the truck and the driver are well suited. a tall driver is not going to like something with a 60" bunk more than likely, you get the idea. Many though do have different opinions of What does truely make a good truck and a good owner, this is just my opinion. Let the driver work though and give them their space...and hopefully you won't be dissappointed. Hope all is well and it all works out good for you.
Well, That's my opinion and 2 cents worth.
