It's a Team's Life
Get the most out of Orientation
Orientation is one of the most important steps when leasing on or driving for a new company. These few days can make or break someone new to the business or someone coming from another carrier.
Each carrier has their own quirks and if someone new attends orientation thinking they know it all the transition is going to be very difficult and frustrating, not only for the driver but the company as well.
Every carrier handles paperwork, logging, dispatch offers, as well as settlements differently and a wise student will take notes and will ask questions. The instructors are there to make the transition as seamless and flawless as possible. It is in the best interest of the carrier for the new contractors to make as few mistakes as possible. Before attending orientation ask the recruiter what you need to bring. Usually you will need your driver’s license, DOT medical card and also business documents. If incorporated you often have to bring those papers. If you have a passport or proof of citizenship those papers are needed as well. Be prepared to have a drug and alcohol test done on site. Most companies use direct deposit and you will need a check or deposit slip. The truck will need recent periodic (DOT) inspections as well find out before hand what you will need to bring, as you might not leave orientation being leased to the carrier.
When attending orientation be as rested as possible. This is often easier said then done, as there is excitement and fear of the unknown when starting something new. Be early to get the best seat possible and to get settled in, being late to orientation sends out a clear ugly signal to the instructors. Attend class dressed appropriately in comfortable clean slacks, nice shirt and closed toe shoes. Shirts with political, religious sayings, that are inappropriate in a business setting, shorts, and sandals are not appropriate in a customers business nor on a dock and this attire is not appropriate in orientation. Bring a clean truck, inside and out as the company will examine the truck and this information will be entered into the computer. The truck should have no safety defects and have the necessary safety equipment. The truck should be ready to take a load that day in a safe compliant truck.
Turn your cell phone off and do not text or check emails until there is a break. If you are in the middle of an emergency, talk to the instructor, explain the problem and sit near the door so you can leave the room and not disturb the rest of the class.
In the evening take a break, have supper and relax for a
while. Review your notes and if there is something you did not understand
make a notation for the next day and ask questions.
Bob & Linda Caffee
Leased to: FedEx Custom Critical 

TeamCaffee

Saint Louis MO
Expediters 6 years been out here on the road 11 years
Expediting isn't just trucking, it's a lifestyle; 

Expediting isn't just a lifestyle, it's an adventure;

Expediting isn't just an adventure, it's a job;

Expediting isn't just a job, it's a business.