The relationship with your dispatcher is one of the most important working relationships in the trucking industry. It can be challenging to navigate at first, but extremely rewarding if you build a strong connection with them. The first step to working with your driver dispatcher is understanding their role. Then, you can openly communicate and ask them for help when necessary.
What is a Driver Dispatcher?
A driver dispatcher is responsible for managing freight and ensuring that the loads are delivered to the correct customer on time and undamaged. Dispatchers also aim to minimize the mileage of a truck while maximizing the profits of the company. To do so, they communicate with truck drivers, motor carriers, and the company receiving the cargo.
Driver dispatchers are not necessarily a supervisor, but they do manage the software systems and give truckers their instructions. They act as an intermediary between drivers and customers.
How Do You Work With Your Driver Dispatcher?
Relationships take time and effort to grow, and the same is true for working with a dispatcher.
These tips can help you improve your relationship with your driver dispatcher:
Understand Both Roles
Most dispatchers have never been a trucker and vice versa. This can lead to unrealistic expectations of what each person can manage in a day. One of the best ways to avoid unnecessary conflict from your side is to understand a bit about the duties of a truck dispatcher.
While you are concerned about the logistics of your own route, driver dispatchers have to manage the details of every driver’s schedule, as well as the expectations of multiple customers and trucking company management. Recognizing that they have a lot on their plate will allow you to be more patient with them.
Keep Communication Open
Open communication is key when navigating a driver-dispatcher relationship. While it is their job to be in contact with you, communication should go both ways. Being clear, honest, and direct with each other can help avoid misunderstandings and conflict.
It is also important to respect your dispatcher’s time. You are not the only driver they are working with, so being prepared can make both of your lives easier. One way to do this is to establish the details of a trip before you leave. This includes reviewing mileage, filling out paperwork, and anticipating obstacles ahead of time.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
Another way to improve the relationship with your dispatcher is to reach out to them if you have a question. When you are assigned a job, it is important that you fully understand all of the details. If an aspect of your trip is unclear to you, express that to your dispatcher so they can clear up any confusion.
You should also not be afraid to speak up for your wellbeing. If a dispatcher assigned you an unrealistic schedule that might compromise your safety, let them know so you can work something else out. Try to keep calm and work toward a solution that is beneficial to you both.
Jumpstart Your Trucking Career
If you are considering a career in truck driving, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help you get started. With our accelerated program, you can earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks. We have schools located in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
