SHORTAGE FROM PG5 a driver pool with the depth to handle ever-growing supply chain demands will require a mix of approaches. But as long as carriers think creatively and strategically – harnessing untapped workforces and offering competitive pay with comprehensive benefits packages – there’s every reason to believe that we can reverse this trend. F I N A L LY, WH AT C A N Y O U D O ? Not only are drivers critical to the success of carriers, but they are also absolutely vital to the success of nearly every business there is. While carriers can take internal steps to improve life on the road, it’s also imperative that shippers take further steps to open their arms when drivers make pickups and deliveries. These are just a few of the minimal actions that shippers can take to help uplift the driving profession: • Provide Water and Snacks: Due to parking challenges, it tends to be more difficult for truck drivers to stop at a convenience store for something as simple as a bag of chips or a bottle of water. Handing out treat bags, snacks and drinks is a great way to improve the day of a truck driver! • Allow Access to Restrooms: Make sure that your truck drivers feel welcome at your business. Let them know that they can use your restroom before heading out. • Say “Thank You”: You’d be surprised by how much common courtesy can go in the world. Let your truck drivers know that they are a valued part of your team by simply saying thank you. P to P
that offer differing levels of home time. 90 percent of our regional over-the-road drivers are home by noon on Saturdays and average 55+ hours at home each week. Local drivers and many of our dedicated fleet drivers are home daily. At the same time, we are always seeking ways to increase home time by optimizing our routing and even testing out innovative approaches that meet the needs of our customers without sacrificing service standards. B E T T E R P R O T E C T I O N O N T H E R O A D In terms of technology, safety, and comfort, Averitt’s fleet delivers the highest standards within the industry. Averitt drivers are on the road with the comfort of knowing that their trucks and trailers are equipped with mutiple safety features. From lane-departure protection to side guard assist systems, today’s technology and safety features help protect our drivers and the public. A C C E S S T O AME N I T I E S A N D B E T T E R S U P P O R T When it comes to keeping a small part of traditional home life on the road, Averitt’s service centers offer several amenities. Throughout the Averitt network, our service centers offer drivers quick access to safe parking, showers, laundry machines, and even gyms and medical clinics. At the same time, Averitt employs associates who are dedicated to working closely with drivers to ensure they have everything they need to work comfortably. Our Driver Support Specialists are located on-site within our service centers to provide face-to-face assistance to drivers. And within our corporate headquarters, we maintain an entire Driver Service Team that continuously checks in and communicates with drivers throughout our network. P to P
At Averitt, our motto is: Our Driving Force Is People. Every day, we strive to create and empower a workforce of drivers whoare proud of their job and the impact they have on their communities. Our team has many initiatives and programs in place to help grow and strengthen our driving force. In addition to offering leading pay, great benefits, and professional growth opportunities, here are just a few of the steps Averitt takes to create a work environment that attracts and retains drivers. One unique approach to opening the doors to a driving career is Averitt’s Dock-to-Driver Program. Associates who have joined Averitt on the dock or in the warehouse can participate in the company’s CDL-A training program. The program pairs participants with local driver trainers who help teach students the skills to earn their CDL-A license, which is reimbursed by Averitt. Drivers in Averitt’s Dock-to-Driver program also train behind the wheel at Averitt’s Driver Development Centers before they finish the program. Additionally, for industry veterans who have not been in the driver’s seat for a while, Averitt offers behind- the-wheel training that can last between one and three weeks. MO R E F L E X I B L E O P T I O N S F O R H OME T I ME One of the biggest challenges for drivers is the fact that home time can be very hit or miss with many carriers. At Averitt, drivers are provided several options D R I V E R T R A I N I N G P R O G R AMS & I N I T I AT I V E S WHAT AVERITT ISDOING ABOUT THE SHORTAGE...
U.S. TO CANADA FROM PG2 foreign nationals working for U.S.-based carriers are allowed into Canada provided they have the proper documentation and don’t have a criminal record. Also, firearms are closely regulated in Canada and must be declared when entering the country. Handguns are prohibited – and that includes guns that are properly registered in the U.S. If a driver fails to declare a firearm, it could result in the forfeiture of the weapon and criminal penalties. This is another case where Averitt’s deep international experience comes into play. In addition to having the necessary security and customs certifications needed to move freight smoothly in and out of Canada – including Free and Secure Trade
(FAST), Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), Partners in Prevention (PIP), and Customs Self-Assessment – Averitt eliminates any potential concerns about driver access by utilizing Canadian drivers for our cross-border shipments. D I S T R I B U T I O N & WA R E H O U S I N G The meteoric rise of e-commerce has made rapid distribution and fulfillment more important than ever – a fact that’s as true across our northern border as it is domestically. In this case, location is key. And Averitt’s North America distribution network is second to none. Our facilities are strategically positioned to offer increased speed-to-consumers in key markets. We also offer
access to many warehouses throughout Canada. This allows shippers to position inventory for quick delivery without the costs of operating an ndependent warehouse. G O W I T H E X P E R I E N C E A smooth border crossing depends on several factors that can become confusing for those new to the process. Above all, accurate information is crucial when shipping to Canada. Averitt has the experience, technology, and know-how to guide your freight from pickup, through customs, and on to delivery. P to P
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