There are many reasons why you may have to leave a trucking company. Maybe you have the chance to earn more money, maybe the relationship between you and your employer isn’t working out, or maybe there is a position that better fits your family life.
Whatever your reason for leaving, there are certain things that you should know before you go. Following these simple tips will help your transition to a new trucking job go more smoothly and help you start on the right foot.
What to Know When You are Leaving a Trucking Company
Leaving a company in the trucking industry is really no different than leaving an employer anywhere else. You need to be respectful, give advanced notice, and make sure everything is handled properly.
1. Give a Formal Notice of Resignation
Make sure there is no lack of communication between you and your employer. Give a formal notice of resignation, preferably in writing, that lets the company know your intentions. Ask for a reply so you can prove to other companies that you did indeed give formal notice.
2. Give at Least Two Weeks Notice
The expected notice for leaving will vary between employers, but the standard in the trucking industry is the same as other professions: two weeks. The more you can give, the better, and you should avoid leaving abruptly at all costs, as your abrupt departure can go on your DAC report and harm your employment chances down the road.
3. Thank the Dispatchers, Safety Directors, Managers, and More
No matter what your relationship with the company, take the time to personally thank the people you worked with. From your fellow truckers to the company ownership, let them know that you appreciate the opportunity to build your career and will always be grateful for working with them.
4. Leave the Truck and Equipment Where Your Employer Requests
Never, ever, under any circumstances, abandon your equipment. It doesn’t matter if your employer is a shouting tyrant, if a report of abandoned equipment goes on your record, it can spell serious trouble for future employment. Leave the truck, trailer, and all other equipment exactly where your leadership requests. Return the equipment in good conditions and most carriers will pay for your travel home.
5. Keep a Record of Communication
You can protect yourself and your reputation by keeping records of all the communication between you and your employer. Keep a copy of your resignation, their reply, and request a document that states all equipment was returned. If anything inaccurate comes up in your DAC report, you now have the documents to correct your record.
6. Get Documentation of Employment
Building your resume for the future is important for your long-term success as a trucker. Take the time to get documentation of your employment, including copies of your safety file, employment record, and any accommodations you received.
7. Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
Finally, ask for a letter of recommendation from a company leader who knows you well. This can be one of the most important documents you have in your file. It shows you are reliable, dedicated, and fully-capable of handling the task, and gives a personalized account of your work.
Remember that what you do when leaving a trucking company will follow you through your career. Be respectful, thankful, and professional when you leave and you’ll be a better hire throughout your life in the trucking industry.
Top-Quality Trucking Jobs are Waiting
There are plenty of good trucking companies looking for hard-working truckers like you. Following these simple tips when leaving a trucking company will go a long way toward making your transition to a new trucking job go more smoothly.
Browse our Classifieds section today to find the perfect trucking jobs for your specific needs and skill level.
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