As a shipper, it pays to have a good reputation with drivers. It helps you have efficient, on-time deliveries, get your loads accepted at a fair price, and more.
It may feel difficult to achieve and maintain a strong reputation, but remember that drivers have the same goals you do. They want an efficient drop so they can get back on the road and keep earning.
There are also specific needs drivers have, and if you can meet them, you’ll quickly be at the top of their list of favorite shippers. What are they? Let’s take a look.
A Clear Understanding of Your Docks
When you think about your dropoff process from the perspective of a driver, it helps you understand how confusing a facility can be. Sometimes the dock layout is confusing, and drivers don’t know where to go to check in, dock at a bay, or even find someone who can answer their questions.
Providing clarity creates huge benefits for both you and the truckers. They know exactly where they need to go and waste less time getting lost, and you get deliveries on time and in the right location.
How do you share that information? We might be biased, but Dock411 is a pretty great option. You can claim your facility as an entire area, not simply one spot on the map. From there, you can share the best approach routes, yard entrances, staging areas, and even nearby parking.
When drivers know exactly where they need to go, your facility becomes a stress-free experience which dramatically enhances your reputation.
Knowing Your Policies and Amenities
Do you close at 4 but stop taking check-ins at 3:30? Do you require a pre-scheduled appointment for a delivery? Do you have a place where drivers can go to the bathroom or grab a snack?
These are all things that drivers wish they knew, but they often don’t. With incomplete information, they may have to park overnight and deliver the next day, which costs them time and money.
When you make your policies and amenities clear on your Dock411 profile, you will create a positive relationship with the driver community. They know what to expect and can meet your guidelines, which makes life easier for everyone.
Respect From Your Team
Another common story we hear from drivers is that there are some facilities where the staff does not treat them well. Professionalism is vital if you want to have a good reputation with drivers.
Make sure your team members understand that drivers are an essential part of your business operations — if there were no deliveries, there’d be no need for a facility. Model that attitude in how your managers talk about and interact with drivers as well.
When a driver is treated poorly at your facility, the story can spread quickly. It’s only by ensuring your employees are professional and polite that you can build and maintain a great reputation.
Do Drivers Know Your Facility?
If drivers don’t have enough information about your facility, you’ll struggle to have a positive reputation that leads to great experiences with deliveries. Make it easier on your team and drivers by claiming your facility on Dock411 and filling out your profile today.
It will take only a few minutes and will save you hours of headaches and inefficiencies going forward!
