21⟩ Explain me what is the longest haul you have managed in your career?
The longest I have been on the road is 15,000 miles over a span of three weeks.
Commercial Driver
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“Commercial Driver related Frequently Asked Questions by expert members with professional career as Commercial Driver. These list of interview questions and answers will help you strengthen your technical skills, prepare for the new job interview and quickly revise your concepts”
60 Commercial Driver Questions And Answers
22⟩ Tell me what is the chain of command for drivers?
Ask this question to figure out how many people you will be answering to as a driver.
23⟩ Tell us how many tries did it take you to obtain your CDL?
CDL is short for Commercial Drivers' License. There are many different classes of CDL including Class A, B, and C. In addition to these; you can add a multitude of endorsements including:
☛ H Endorsement: for transporting hazardous materials.
☛ N Endorsement: for operating tank vehicles.
☛ P Endorsement: for operating a truck with a specified number of passengers.
☛ S Endorsement: for operating a school bus.
☛ T Endorsement: for towing a double or triple trailer.
☛ X Endorsement: for operating a combination of HAZMAT and tank vehicles.
If you did not pass your CDL written or road test the first time, share what mistakes you made, how you have corrected them, and what steps, if any, you have taken to ensure you do not make those mistakes again.
24⟩ Tell us have you ever experienced a major problem with a shipment? What did you tell the customer? How did you fix it?
Tests customer service skills.
25⟩ Tell me what would you do if a customer asks you a delivery favor? Suppose they ask you to deliver a package somewhere on your way, what would you do?
I’d excuse from the task and would politely inform them that it is not the company’s policy to deliver packages, therefore, I am not at liberty to do so. I will also notify the manager regarding the situation.
26⟩ Suppose if you pay by the mile, is mileage calculated by hub miles, dispatched miles, loaded miles, or a computer program?
Each company calculates mileage in a different way. Ask this question ahead of time so you aren't unpleasantly surprised when you begin driving.
27⟩ Explain how you’ve handled a breakdown or setback?
Tests response under stress.
28⟩ Explain me does traffic congestion stress you out? How do you handle it?
Your reply to this question should always be a no. As a truck driver, it's your responsibility to remain calm and collected behind the wheel. Interviewers want to hear that you can handle traffic congestion with ease. Be sure to mention what cities you have driven in and what type of traffic to which you are accustomed.
Note: If you are a newer driver, it is okay to be a little uneasy about driving in bigger cities with a lot of traffic. The interviewer will likely provide you with a few extra ride alongs to ensure you are comfortable before being sent out alone. Rather than stating your are uneasy or stressed out in these situations, you can let them know you are less experienced in this area and would appreciate additional training.
29⟩ Tell me what is your availability for this position?
I am willing to start right away.
30⟩ Tell me are there days and weeks where mileage is significantly lower or higher?
Some companies have busy times. During those times, are more miles available or required?
31⟩ Tell us have you ever missed a deadline? Why and how did you handle it?
Shows willingness to follow procedure.
32⟩ Explain me how is performance/progress assessed?
Companies should have specific standards that they use to evaluate drivers.
33⟩ Tell me is pay based on a per-mile rate or an hourly rate?
There are benefits to both pay models, and you need to be fully informed either way.
34⟩ Tell us when are new hires eligible for benefits?
Following the question above, ask how long you need to work before you are eligible for benefits.
35⟩ Tell me what kind of training is provided by the company?
How long is the training, what does it cover, and is extra training available if you don't feel comfortable?
36⟩ As you know the trucking business is all about meeting deadlines, especially where deliveries are concerned. How do you make sure that you meet deadlines?
I am very particular about deadlines. I start earlier than my schedule dictates so that any delays brought about by any unforeseen circumstances are covered. I also make sure that the time-out which I take is a reasonable amount.
37⟩ Tell us how do you plan your route? How do you ensure you remain alert and safe on the road?
Tests planning skills.
38⟩ Tell me your Ability To Drive Safely Depends On
☛ Not being overly tired.
☛ Being emotionally fit to drive.
☛ Being able to see clearly.
39⟩ Tell me if so, how is payment made?
If you load and unload your own truck, is this work paid via an hourly wage, a flat rate, by piece, or by weight?
40⟩ Tell us how easy is it to contact my manager for help or concerns?
Ideally, your manager should be available most of the time, either in person at your home facility or by telephone.
