In our previous article, we shared drivers’ thoughts about themselves. We explored what it means to be a good driver. You can read the full article HERE.

Today, it’s time to answer the question of what it means to be a good transport company because, after all, everyone would like to work in such a company.

Drivers mention three main qualities they believe a good transport company should have: it should be solvent, honest, and take care of its fleet.

Solvency

The solvency of companies is not a given. Many drivers complain about delayed payments or even the lack of them. “Recently, at a parking lot, I talked to a Lithuanian who had been waiting for his overdue payment for four weeks. He asked for a pack of cigarettes because he couldn’t afford to buy one at the parking lot in France,” Peter, a driver from Spain, shared with me.
The case of the well-known strike at a parking lot conducted by Georgian drivers from a Polish transport company is not an isolated incident. Even in Western Europe, there are still employers who fail to pay the agreed wages on time.

Honesty

The honesty of transport companies is a delicate issue. “For me, an honest company is one that doesn’t save at the driver’s expense, doesn’t cut hours or overtime,” said Marco, a driver from the Netherlands.
Taking away overtime is quite a common practice in German and Dutch companies. It’s completely unreasonable and unfair!
• “Honesty also means reimbursing paid parking expenses, as there are often no other options available, and cargo safety is a top priority,” noted Dima, who drives for a German company.

Transparency

A good company is characterized by open communication with employees. Transparency regarding salaries, working hours, and policies is key. Drivers often mention that they want to know what they’re being paid for and what their exact responsibilities are. Such transparency builds trust and increases employee loyalty.

Fleet Maintenance

The third aspect drivers focus on in defining a good company is fleet maintenance. After all, no one likes driving an old, constantly breaking-down vehicle.
• Good companies don’t skimp on service and repairs because they know it’s cheaper to fix something in-house than to bear the costs of roadside repairs. However, some bosses still send vehicles on long trips with a “Christmas tree” of warning lights on the dashboard.

Fleet maintenance also includes caring for and frequently checking tires. “In our company, the boss walks around each rig with a hammer every Saturday, checking the tire condition. Suspicious tires are immediately sent to the tire service. However, this sight might be rare, although I could be wrong,” noted Sjors, a driver from the Netherlands.

Caring for the fleet and road safety also means responsibility toward other road users. A professional transport company cares not only about its drivers but also about road safety.

Professional Development

An important aspect is also investing in drivers’ development. Training, certifications, such as eco-driving or ADR courses, benefit both the company and the drivers. A good transport company supports its employees’ growth, motivating them to stay long-term.

What do you think a good transport company should be like?

Share your opinion in the comments on our FB profile. Thanks to translation options, everyone can share their thoughts in their own language.

If you have more to say, feel free to send your thoughts to contact@findtrucker.eu.