Good video. I am an Ex-Truck driver who crossed over and am now working in dispatch. While I will agree that there are dispatchers who do not have any idea of what it is like out there for their drivers and the stresses and such their drivers have to deal with. However, there is also a lot of drivers who truly understand the role and stresses that the dispatcher has to deal with. Dispatching would be a dream job if all drivers where quality drivers whit a good work ethic. Just think of all the drivers you see out there, the ones who can't park, can't back up, those who waste time in the truck stops gazing into the case of shiny CB Radios and all and will go back to their truck to see if they are eligible for another cash advance. As a dispatcher they make my job annoyingly stressful, but so to, does the bad dispatcher, who is not at their desk and I am having to pick up their slack, or get a call from a driver and get yelled at for what the previous dispatcher did or didn't do. Sometimes, I think being an ex truck driver who was over the road and pulled flatbed, reefer, van and even tanker is an asset to me as a dispatcher. However, it can also be a disadvantage, as I really have to work hard at being patient with less quality drivers or when drivers try to tell me a total line of crap as to why their load is late or whatever. It also doesn't help that I am a weekend dispatcher, which you all know that is a bad gig. Drive Safe out there, work hard and don't forget to enjoy the view out of your office window, because I don't even have a window.
Arguing with a dispatcher is like playing chess with a pigeon. A pigeon will just knock over all the pieces, shit on the board and strut around like he won.
"I'll do my best." That phrase is good to mention to dispatchers, whether for over-the-road driving or driving trucks that have day cabs. After all, getting goods delivered safely matters a lot. Of course it matters that loads should also be delivered in as timely a manner as safely possible.
I quit my first gig over a weekend dispatcher. I don't take a cussing, from nobody. Of course this was 1989, and the company is out of business, long ago.
I have been a dispather for 25 years, trained by a former driver. Generally I can agree with you, so I started by sweeping the trailer in order to know how much space it had. Made the forklift licence and haz cargo licence 2 years later. Still I believe not all drivers are allways willing to work hours they are supposed to and like to stop before or make breaks / stops where unnecessary. So, there are good and bad on each "side".
Ah yes the constant battle lol. I'm a former intermodal dispatcher and you sir are very experienced. I'm one of the good ones, communication is key. Also you help me, and I'll reward you. I NEVER forget if you help me with something.
Thanks dude for video. I work as dispatcher and I always do my best to imagine putting myself in the truck driver's shoes in tough, time-pressuring service windows. Lot of times, sales people don't really know what their doing, so often I have to work as sort of a checks-and-balance between them and the truck teams on what can go on a truck or if a certain stop is reasonable within the truck team's manifest.
I am 62 years old and exploring different careers after being a computer professional for many years. From software developer to next generation AI and other high tech endeavors. I have friends and family in the trucking industry but this is the most clear and concise description of the challenges and advise I've heard to date. I'll be looking at your other videos as well.
TractorTrailerWorld Owner’s kids going straight to management positions without the least bit of knowledge on how to start a truck much less drive it is your worst nightmare. Chances are that they grew up with a silver spoon in their mouths and are looking for ways to support their lifestyle since they flew daddy’s coop. Been there, done that.
Thanks for this channel, I just stumbled across it this evening. This video especially, I discovered just how great my dispatcher and brokers are. I generally don't sit idle for more than a few hours between loads and often have my backhaul plotted the day before my delivery, unless I need to reset my HOS. The running tired problem also doesn't happen for me since my dispatcher and my safety rep occupy the same office.
I think it would be beneficial if every dispatcher gets to hop on a route at least once during training with one of the drivers and see for themselves the challenges, and obviously driver would get paid for training that dispatcher. THANK YOU for the video !
I had a dispatcher try stuff like this I used to say it will deliver when I get there and pick up time is when I get there. She used to say you can’t be early you can’t be late and I used to tell her when I get there that’s the time don’t keep me waiting that used to make her so mad.
if only company's hired dispatchers with truck driving experience this industry would have been the sweetest . Not all but majority of dispatchers cause a lot of stress on truck drivers and I believe they should be held accountable too coz playing with someone else pay check is no fun
Bad drivers can cost companies to lose customers. If drivers act up at locations they most likely will be banned. But worst case, the business loses the customer and then everyone is out. Once you start lose customers, it’s an uphill battle. Trucking companies lose more over bad drivers than they do from anyone inside the office. I have plenty of material for that.
Your Channel has helped me out a lot during my first two years as a driver. That alone should let you know that we are watching and thankful that a veteran driver like yourself would share his wisdom with us new guys! And the last comment was spot on.Dispatchers should be REQUIRED to go out for a couple of weeks,only with NEW DRIVERS in BLIZZARDS!!!! They would have it too smooth riding with a cat like you!!(LOL)I appreciate a guy like you sharing their knowledge with us,since most drivers out there just consider look at us like pests that should be killed. Don't forget,we ALL were NEW DRIVERS at one time,in a career where you truly never stop learning.Thanks again.
I disagree with the statement "your working for the owner". Regardless of whatever industry you earn your money in, you will develop long term financial success with the idea that your working for yourself. Your employer is your customer, and any smart business person will always try to find new or better customers. When I was working (retired now), I never stopped looking for a new job (business opportunity). The only time I was unemployed was when I chose to. This enabled me to have a great deal of independence, and never having to yield to an uninformed dispatcher. With the so called driver shortage, drivers are in a better position to decide what they will or will not do. The business owner realizes that it takes a long time and a lot of money to replace drivers. If they don't, then the long term success of that business will be doubtful and not worth any investment of your time or resources. Never be afraid to refuse a dispatch if you have any misgivings that you can do it safely. If you drive away on your trip still angry with a dispatcher, you are 10 times more likely to be involved in an accident. No job is worth losing your money or liberty.
Nice! Dave, could you do another video about the trucks that you drove later in the 80s and 90s? I like listenng to the stories that you can tell about the trucks. keep up with the great vids!!
Totally agree about not arguing with dispatch. All you will do is piss them off and they will work on making your life hell. As for safety and being pushed.... You only have so many hours you're allowed to drive in a 6 or 7 day period so having 2 hours to drive on your last cycle day in the middle of nowhere is unproductive. Besides, your dispatcher will find a load that will have you wasting a day at a loading dock or stuck in traffic.
I have a “ Okay “ dispatcher. Sometimes he is easy to work with and sometimes he isn’t. He is a ex driver. But new at being a dispatcher. But I used to call him all the time to talk about loads. But now I use the ELOG to talk to him just so it’s on history.
great video as always. As someone from the outside not into the trucking game yet, I think it would be beneficial if dispatchers could spend a week or two out with a driver to see what it's like to be out there grinding miles for a living. I think it should be a requirement for new dispatchers, but, that's just me
My DM told me to call and not send messages on the Qaulcom. I was told he gets written up if it is a issue where I am not happy or they are not meeting my needs. My former DM was fantastic now I have a new one who I am still working things out with.
Some dispatchers lie, often, then lie about having lied. Working in the city one dispatcher gave me an address to pick up a trailer in the north east part of the city. I drove all around the area and such an address did not exist so I went into a lumber company that was closest to the address I was given to use their phone. (this was before cell phones) On speaker phone I asked him to repeat the address so I had a witness and we eventually figured out the dispatcher had the numbers reversed and the pickup point was downtown. I was working for a tractor service and dispatch wanted to dock our pay for that mistake and lucky me, I had a witness to say it was not my mistake. That dispatcher got three days off without pay for his bullshit. The downside of winning is that a month later he found a way to terminate the contract with my boss.
i like the video just one issue, most companys will side with the dispatcher or load planner before they side with the driver. plus companys have forced dispatch well some of them. which means in company rules if you refuse you are in violation, and safety is another branch of the company, so if you go over there head they will find away to discharge you even if it means making up a reason. ive lost many jobs by going over people heads due to force dispatch.
+Joel Goldman I know what you say is true and my response to that is that those companies don't appreciate their drivers. Time to find a better company anyway then, and those companies are out there! Good drivers are a valued commodity. Dave
Thank you! I'm new to otr, and this is rough trying to make times... i thought it was odd I'm always last to truck stop but first to leave and still not able to make times
I worked for a local hauler that would try and force dispatch you. The first thing you need to do is learn to say no. The second thing is start looking for another job because they will do it again and they will retaliate given the chance.Be prepared to quit on the spot If you feel undo pressure from sketchy managers that compromise your safety. Not worth driving for outfits like that.
I dropped a load 1 mile from main headquarters, so after empty I thought to myself I'll just drive on over to the headquarters and do my paperwork get paid all that stuff. So when i walk in there I imediately get chewed out for not calling in after empty. No job I ever had did I put up with a prick.
I haven't ran OTR since 2010 and I wondered if this situation has changed. Ex. Dispatch. D&H @ receiver. Take M/T 50 miles and D&H @ shipper. Simple so far but, let's say the paid miles from the shipper to the next receiver is 550 miles but the actual miles per GPS is 600. In reality the driver drove an hour for free and had to log at least 15 min per D&H. Is this still going on that Companies are still shaving miles and the drivers are paying for it? When I drove for Smith Transport we were paid HHC miles and always drove hot. It was a guarantee they would shave 10% of the miles off of the load to pay for the M/T miles. If you wanted to make any money you would have to back-up your logs daily to make up the time you drove for free. Has this changed now with Electronic Recorders or are Carriers still screwing over the drivers some other way?
Well e-logs are there own backup itself, thats why they say put all communication on the e-logs or your mobile texts, either would hold up in any state or superior state or supreme court!!!!
some of the "super" carriers attach on time performance bonuses that are tiered to get drivers to move more freight and drive longer hours...my dispatcher once remarked " by some of your messages, you seem like you don't trust me"... I replied I don't, have you looked at some of the dispatches you sent me?...I was already late before I even picked up the load! SMH....
I've never driven but I've been out OTR with my husband a few times. He's been driving for too long lol. Anyways, he's suggested to me recently about working as a dispatcher. He says I'd make a great one And we need more income, bad.
Not going to say the companies name. But I was dispatched to a tire warehouse to pickup a load of tires. As it wasn't far from the terminal, I got a empty and drove to the warehouse. Got out of the truck and notified them that I was there and where I needed to back my trailer. The told me, I backed in. And jumped in the sleeper... Well about 45 minutes later, the warehouse Super, knocked on my door. so I answered him.. He told me that they are short handed and needed help loading my truck. After checking with the Dispatcher to make sure I was going to get paid to help load. Which turned out to be me and two other warehouse guys. Some 4 and half hours later we finished. And I was exhausted... I got the paperwork, and noticed that it needed to be delivered my 8am the next morning... Well that sucked. So Went back to the terminal. And instead of handing the load off to a fresh driver. MY dispatcher in Reno told me I needed to get moving. I told him, that I didn't have enough hours left to get half way there. That I was tired loading 53 foot trailer of freaking car and truck tires. That I would have to take off after I got some rest. In the End.. I dropped the trailer in Reno at Noon, drove empty to my terminal, and the let me go... 3 days before my 1 year anniversary. They wanted me to fudge my Log book so I could get there. And I just sad no.. Not breaking the law, the DOT regulations for a job.
I just wanted to thank you for posting some of the most intelligent, videos on the industry. Your commentary is spot on and completely accurate....If your ever in Montreal drop me a line...,😁
Working as owner operator, I'm only bring home 1200 a week. I get my dispatches late i don't get them one day before like alot of these drivers. Seems like I get the loads no one wants. I honestly think I should just leave. Been there 2 months ran 13k miles on truck and made only 7k after everything they take out
Smart-Trucking.com have you done a video on operating costs? So many drivers now don’t know there cost and don’t care. Please educate some of us about it. Thanks
Thank you so much for this video. I’m currently having a really tough time with my dispatcher. I’m a lease driver and he tried to force me to work for free. He is always nasty with me and I know it is because I’m quiet and shy. I just don’t like conflict. I’ve been Otr for a year and a half and I want to be a dedicated driver and switch companies. However due to the way I’m treated now I’m afraid since I also don’t know how to pick out a good company. I don’t want to be treated like this again. I have a clean record. Recommendations please? Anything would help
I don't know how your lease is set up, but hopefully it's one you can walk away from. I'd star by telling the carrier your problem and give them a chance to give you another dispatcher. If that fails to work, I'd leave. Lots of good carriers out there looking for drivers, especially ones with clean records. Start shopping now so you have a new carrier to go to if you leave this one. No one should ever have to work with a dispatcher who mistreats them! It's not acceptable, ever!
arguing with the dispatcher is a lot like wrestling with a pig in the mud something they both enjoy and all you get out of it is dirty and nothing more!
I need advice please.....the trucking company I work for and it's dispatchers have thrown me under the bus multiple times since I started driving for them back in Oct '17. I've talked with my DM about not sending me to Pa, NY, NJ, MA because I just can't handle it as a brand new driver to the industry. Ive spoken to my DM about it and no one gives a shit... (my apologies for my colorful expressions) I absolutely love what I do...but I'm so tired of being thrown under the bus by these dispatches who treat and speak to me worse than trash. I had one DM and Dispatchers tell on the Qualcomm that I didn't need a 34hr reset and take the load....um, with only 6hrs left on my 70hr? Um, NO Please, can you give me tips on how to handle these dispatchers? I've been MORE than civil....
I'm sure you have. It sounds to me like it's time for you to find a better outfit to work for. Your current employer isn't going to change. You can do better than these guys! Dave
First question: '' So, mr/mrs/ms dispatcher; what is the WEATHER THERE, WHERE THE LOAD IS GOING ? And, the weather along the highway/roads I'll be taking ? "" Do i require, winter tires, wheel chains, a shovel, or a pick, etc etc . '' i'll do the best i can, timewise, but, I WILL NOT DRIVE UNSAFELY, per road conditions. The load will arrive, as ASAP, but, THE ONLY LOAD THAT IS LATE, IS ONE WHICH NEVER EVER ARRIVES ! '' ( i told one, onetime, to '' shutup and listen ! '' It is winter.....etc etc. explaining conditions '....then, shutoff cell phone.
There are good dispatchers who will work with you, but nowadays they're far and few between. Bad dispatchers...giving them a nice hard pimp slap used to be very effective at adjusting their attitudes, but today...Daves advice is about the only path to take.
I think you can help me i was driving in Texas before Corpus Cristy TX. on 77north it was raining and a little windy. I feel something wrong I begin to lose control of the vehicle thank God help me straight it up the truck again and I stop to see what was wrong and dont found anything my load total weight was 6800 pounds. the tráiler tándem was a lo the way to the front I thought can be the fifthwheel. but not the fifthwheel does not move so what I did was. I first move the tráiler tándem to the hole 10 or 12 to the back and it still moving to the sides and can't drive it over 55 if i go 60 it moves again. then I move it almost all the way to the back and quit moving and finally make it to my destination on bloomington Illinois.. what do you think it could be? this never happen to me i hope you understand my writing. I did Subscribe to To your chanell. hopping you can answer my questions. DRIVER BE CAREFULL EVERY TRIP IS DIFFERENT DONT SAY I KNOW EVERYTHING OR. THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME OPEN YOUR EYES AND GOD WILL MAKE THE REST...
+Jesse Vanburen It's hard to tel without being there but it sounds to me that your load was so light the cross winds were affecting the truck. By sliding the tandems back you make the trailer more stable in a crosswind because it lengthens your overall wheelbase. That's my best guess anyway. Drive safe, Dave
Good video! I have a question if I may. How is it these dispatchers promise to have goods at a certain place? Do they look at the average hours it takes for a driver to get from point A to point B? Or is it they see It's about a determined mileage to reach a certain destination so they promise to have goods at said destination by a certain date at a certain time? How does that typically work exactly?
My belief lately is that they just wing it depending on what the customer needs. It used to be they'd divide the miles by a reasonable speed then add a few hours leeway and confirm with the driver to insure that was reasonable. Dave
It seems if a dispatcher should wing it as you suggest then wouldn't it be on them or the company if for whatever reason the driver can't deliver? I'm sure if such a thing should happen the dispatcher would cover their own butt and pass the blame on to the driver but it would seem at least to me that a driver could be given at least some reasonable concessions and be able to tell their side of what went wrong or what didn't.
I'd like to commend you on your video. I found it to be informative as well as entertaining. I must say tho that I disagree with you on the fact that safety manger is your ally and "friend". They are paid just like the driver manager, opp rations manager, and on up the line to the CEO or Owner of the company. So their intrest is the company and not you the driver or o/o.
I've been trucking for 7 years (refer, car hauler, dry van, and line haul for FedEx). I'm looking to transition into becoming a Dispatcher so I can work remotely. Any advice?
I have never driven, but my husband has been an o/o for several years working for companies. He suggested for some time already that I be a dispatcher to get him the loads. He stated I would make more money and work from home. How do you suggest I start? I do not have any prior experience in dispatching. Also, I am not able to pay the $3000 fee for 1 week class trainings. I am very motivated to start asap, but don't know how to. Please help!
Start canvasing the local businesses for loads. Ask your husband how much a mile he needs to be profitable and figure out how many miles the freight needs to be shipped. Dave
These days I believe they call dispatching "transportation management" and it's taught at colleges. I would also think some trucking companies would be willing to train you. Dave
I sued the company I used to work for and won in court. It was one of the biggest companies. They fired me because I would not break the Law for them and tried to get me to come back when they realized the trouble that was coming.Financially I screwed them good.
A thought I've been having lately is this: What if we paid dispatcher a percentage of load instead of having them on salary or hourly? I bet they would their act together when their pay depended on making sure the drivers got what they needed.
Dave, is it a given never lease your truck on to where you also get the freight.? Also how do you feel about doing business with a company that has stockholders and on the market? Thanks
I'd never work for a trucking company that has shareholders because their profit comes before yours. As far as leasing on to a company that has their own freight, sometimes those guys are the best if they're privately owned manufacturers with their own fleet because those guys are usually paying their guys well and treating them fairly because they don't want turn over issues. Dave
New subscriber! 👩👗🌴🐩 I'm hooked already. This channel is amazing and so helpful... I am looking forwars to becoming a sucessful, understanding, and empathetic dispatcher soon. This content goes a long way in helping me understand the real world and the challenges truckers goes through on the daily, thank you! 💖💚💗👩
I hate how they make truckers feel threatened, as if your going to loose your job if you don't rush yourself to death. understand they don't dictate your job. the way I see it, just stay in full communication at all times. that's it. they aren't on the road so they can't understand the many variables we face on the road.
Document EVERYTHING! Record phone calls, and E-LOG it! Right on brother, you nailed it again! Thanks
I’ve taken a lot of abuse from my dispatcher bc I was under the impression he could fire me or have me fired. That stops now. Thanks for the vid
Good video. I am an Ex-Truck driver who crossed over and am now working in dispatch. While I will agree that there are dispatchers who do not have any idea of what it is like out there for their drivers and the stresses and such their drivers have to deal with. However, there is also a lot of drivers who truly understand the role and stresses that the dispatcher has to deal with. Dispatching would be a dream job if all drivers where quality drivers whit a good work ethic. Just think of all the drivers you see out there, the ones who can't park, can't back up, those who waste time in the truck stops gazing into the case of shiny CB Radios and all and will go back to their truck to see if they are eligible for another cash advance. As a dispatcher they make my job annoyingly stressful, but so to, does the bad dispatcher, who is not at their desk and I am having to pick up their slack, or get a call from a driver and get yelled at for what the previous dispatcher did or didn't do. Sometimes, I think being an ex truck driver who was over the road and pulled flatbed, reefer, van and even tanker is an asset to me as a dispatcher. However, it can also be a disadvantage, as I really have to work hard at being patient with less quality drivers or when drivers try to tell me a total line of crap as to why their load is late or whatever. It also doesn't help that I am a weekend dispatcher, which you all know that is a bad gig. Drive Safe out there, work hard and don't forget to enjoy the view out of your office window, because I don't even have a window.
Brenda, I wouldn't trade you jobs! Good luck and stay cool! Dave
I think the best message you said in his whole video was that the dispatcher is not your boss sometimes they need to be reminded of that
You look like very old school with lots of experience and very professional. Very honest opinions, good luck veteran truck driver
Arguing with a dispatcher is like playing chess with a pigeon. A pigeon will just knock over all the pieces, shit on the board and strut around like he won.
Love it!! Thank you! I gotta use that one! Dave
Sounds about right
"I'll do my best." That phrase is good to mention to dispatchers, whether for over-the-road driving or driving trucks that have day cabs. After all, getting goods delivered safely matters a lot. Of course it matters that loads should also be delivered in as timely a manner as safely possible.
I quit my first gig over a weekend dispatcher. I don't take a cussing, from nobody. Of course this was 1989, and the company is out of business, long ago.
This guy is 100% correct. He's an old hand like me, and
I have been saying the same crap for more than 20 years....
I haven’t said two words to my dispatch. He sends the loads. I do them. It’s heaven.
I have been a dispather for 25 years, trained by a former driver. Generally I can agree with you, so I started by sweeping the trailer in order to know how much space it had. Made the forklift licence and haz cargo licence 2 years later. Still I believe not all drivers are allways willing to work hours they are supposed to and like to stop before or make breaks / stops where unnecessary. So, there are good and bad on each "side".
I agree. Dave
Thanks.Iv got a dispatcher with an attitude.Its good to know that its not uncommon
Ah yes the constant battle lol. I'm a former intermodal dispatcher and you sir are very experienced. I'm one of the good ones, communication is key. Also you help me, and I'll reward you. I NEVER forget if you help me with something.
Thanks dude for video. I work as dispatcher and I always do my best to imagine putting myself in the truck driver's shoes in tough, time-pressuring service windows. Lot of times, sales people don't really know what their doing, so often I have to work as sort of a checks-and-balance between them and the truck teams on what can go on a truck or if a certain stop is reasonable within the truck team's manifest.
God bless you for these video's, Sir. Had no idea about safety reps.
I am 62 years old and exploring different careers after being a computer professional for many years. From software developer to next generation AI and other high tech endeavors. I have friends and family in the trucking industry but this is the most clear and concise description of the challenges and advise I've heard to date. I'll be looking at your other videos as well.
Thanks Mike! Dave
Owners kids, lol! I've learned a hard lesson - stay away from "Family Companies".
TractorTrailerWorld I hear You!
TractorTrailerWorld Owner’s kids going straight to management positions without the least bit of knowledge on how to start a truck much less drive it is your worst nightmare. Chances are that they grew up with a silver spoon in their mouths and are looking for ways to support their lifestyle since they flew daddy’s coop. Been there, done that.
I am not even a trucker and I learned that the hard way. :(
Great Channel I've shared this video with many. And I've been a CDL Holder for 11 years.
Thank you Mark! Drive safe! Dave
Thanks for this channel, I just stumbled across it this evening. This video especially, I discovered just how great my dispatcher and brokers are. I generally don't sit idle for more than a few hours between loads and often have my backhaul plotted the day before my delivery, unless I need to reset my HOS. The running tired problem also doesn't happen for me since my dispatcher and my safety rep occupy the same office.
I think it would be beneficial if every dispatcher gets to hop on a route at least once during training with one of the drivers and see for themselves the challenges, and obviously driver would get paid for training that dispatcher. THANK YOU for the video !
I have a final interview tomorrow for the dispatcher position tomorrow. This was very informative, thank you
Best of luck!
Do not embrace the dark side
I had a dispatcher try stuff like this I used to say it will deliver when I get there and pick up time is when I get there. She used to say you can’t be early you can’t be late and I used to tell her when I get there that’s the time don’t keep me waiting that used to make her so mad.
if only company's hired dispatchers with truck driving experience this industry would have been the sweetest . Not all but majority of dispatchers cause a lot of stress on truck drivers and I believe they should be held accountable too coz playing with someone else pay check is no fun
Yeah, I believe the dispatchers are a big part of the problem. Dave
Seriously wish I had ran across these videos a couple of years ago. Great information. Thank you so much.
Thank you sir! Dave
Bad drivers can cost companies to lose customers.
If drivers act up at locations they most likely will be banned.
But worst case, the business loses the customer and then everyone is out. Once you start lose customers, it’s an uphill battle.
Trucking companies lose more over bad drivers than they do from anyone inside the office. I have plenty of material for that.
Great meaning for a dispatcher!!! Great video!!! TY for sharing this info!!!
"you accomplished nothing but high blood pressure"🤣🤣🤣🤣 good one
Your Channel has helped me out a lot during my first two years as a driver.
That alone should let you know that we are watching and thankful that a veteran driver like yourself would share his wisdom with us new guys!
And the last comment was spot on.Dispatchers should be REQUIRED to go out for a couple of weeks,only with NEW DRIVERS in BLIZZARDS!!!!
They would have it too smooth riding with a cat like you!!(LOL)I appreciate a guy like you sharing their knowledge with us,since most drivers out there just consider look at us like pests that should be killed.
Don't forget,we ALL were NEW DRIVERS at one time,in a career where you truly never stop learning.Thanks again.
I disagree with the statement "your working for the owner". Regardless of whatever industry you earn your money in, you will develop long term financial success with the idea that your working for yourself. Your employer is your customer, and any smart business person will always try to find new or better customers. When I was working (retired now), I never stopped looking for a new job (business opportunity). The only time I was unemployed was when I chose to. This enabled me to have a great deal of independence, and never having to yield to an uninformed dispatcher. With the so called driver shortage, drivers are in a better position to decide what they will or will not do. The business owner realizes that it takes a long time and a lot of money to replace drivers. If they don't, then the long term success of that business will be doubtful and not worth any investment of your time or resources. Never be afraid to refuse a dispatch if you have any misgivings that you can do it safely. If you drive away on your trip still angry with a dispatcher, you are 10 times more likely to be involved in an accident. No job is worth losing your money or liberty.
Man I salute you sir!
Bless you for passing on knowledge. I learn a lot just me watching your UA-cam videos.
Now you gain a subscriber.
Great advice. But I don’t think I heard you say to request for another dispatcher from management. I did. It worked out great now
Nice!
Dave, could you do another video about the trucks that you drove later in the 80s and 90s? I like listenng to the stories that you can tell about the trucks. keep up with the great vids!!
+Lovro Novak Yes, I can do that. It's on my list. Those trucks are the long hood trucks. I'll get to it.
+Smart-Trucking.com Yess!! Thank you, appreciate it. Again, keep up with the great work!
Wauw! So true!
Nowadays, dispatchers don't have empathy with truckdrivers. They just look at their screen and the numbers.
Totally agree about not arguing with dispatch. All you will do is piss them off and they will work on making your life hell. As for safety and being pushed.... You only have so many hours you're allowed to drive in a 6 or 7 day period so having 2 hours to drive on your last cycle day in the middle of nowhere is unproductive. Besides, your dispatcher will find a load that will have you wasting a day at a loading dock or stuck in traffic.
This video was very helpful! My dispatcher is real sneaky sending me on loads like this is the only option you have. Usually bad weather. Bad areas.
I have a “ Okay “ dispatcher. Sometimes he is easy to work with and sometimes he isn’t. He is a ex driver. But new at being a dispatcher. But I used to call him all the time to talk about loads. But now I use the ELOG to talk to him just so it’s on history.
Love this realistic stuff, this happens in other business too,
Thank you for your work, and channel!
Thank you sir!
great video as always. As someone from the outside not into the trucking game yet, I think it would be beneficial if dispatchers could spend a week or two out with a driver to see what it's like to be out there grinding miles for a living. I think it should be a requirement for new dispatchers, but, that's just me
+Anthony Tillman Should be a requirement you are correct. Yes, they need a taste of the life style and a few weeks would make men out of them.:)
Again Dave another thumbs up.
I like my dispatches if i have a problem they are all over it. I dont even have to request things like detention pay they just give it.
You're working for a good outfit! Dave
Thank you for answer me that fast. and I will follow your advice. I'll do my best...and thanks again.
most companies i worked for the dispatchers are entry level management
Great words of advice hard earned and well shared
My DM told me to call and not send messages on the Qaulcom. I was told he gets written up if it is a issue where I am not happy or they are not meeting my needs. My former DM was fantastic now I have a new one who I am still working things out with.
Some dispatchers lie, often, then lie about having lied.
Working in the city one dispatcher gave me an address to pick up a trailer in the north east part of the city. I drove all around the area and such an address did not exist so I went into a lumber company that was closest to the address I was given to use their phone. (this was before cell phones) On speaker phone I asked him to repeat the address so I had a witness and we eventually figured out the dispatcher had the numbers reversed and the pickup point was downtown. I was working for a tractor service and dispatch wanted to dock our pay for that mistake and lucky me, I had a witness to say it was not my mistake. That dispatcher got three days off without pay for his bullshit. The downside of winning is that a month later he found a way to terminate the contract with my boss.
Wow! Dave
i like the video just one issue, most companys will side with the dispatcher or load planner before they side with the driver. plus companys have forced dispatch well some of them. which means in company rules if you refuse you are in violation, and safety is another branch of the company, so if you go over there head they will find away to discharge you even if it means making up a reason. ive lost many jobs by going over people heads due to force dispatch.
+Joel Goldman I know what you say is true and my response to that is that those companies don't appreciate their drivers. Time to find a better company anyway then, and those companies are out there! Good drivers are a valued commodity. Dave
I like the background music you play in the video at the beginning and end. It sounds like some kind of twangy country music.
Ya... good tune.:)
Thank you! I'm new to otr, and this is rough trying to make times... i thought it was odd I'm always last to truck stop but first to leave and still not able to make times
I worked for a local hauler that would try and force dispatch you. The first thing you need to do is learn to say no. The second thing is start looking for another job because they will do it again and they will retaliate given the chance.Be prepared to quit on the spot If you feel undo pressure from sketchy managers that compromise your safety. Not worth driving for outfits like that.
Exactly right William! Dave
I dropped a load 1 mile from main headquarters, so after empty I thought to myself I'll just drive on over to the headquarters and do my paperwork get paid all that stuff. So when i walk in there I imediately get chewed out for not calling in after empty. No job I ever had did I put up with a prick.
I haven't ran OTR since 2010 and I wondered if this situation has changed. Ex. Dispatch. D&H @ receiver. Take M/T 50 miles and D&H @ shipper. Simple so far but, let's say the paid miles from the shipper to the next receiver is 550 miles but the actual miles per GPS is 600. In reality the driver drove an hour for free and had to log at least 15 min per D&H. Is this still going on that Companies are still shaving miles and the drivers are paying for it? When I drove for Smith Transport we were paid HHC miles and always drove hot. It was a guarantee they would shave 10% of the miles off of the load to pay for the M/T miles. If you wanted to make any money you would have to back-up your logs daily to make up the time you drove for free. Has this changed now with Electronic Recorders or are Carriers still screwing over the drivers some other way?
Not many are paying hub miles, no. And with elogs it's hard to back log as far as I can tell.
Well e-logs are there own backup itself, thats why they say put all communication on the e-logs or your mobile texts, either would hold up in any state or superior state or supreme court!!!!
some of the "super" carriers attach on time performance bonuses that are tiered to get drivers to move more freight and drive longer hours...my dispatcher once remarked " by some of your messages, you seem like you don't trust me"... I replied I don't, have you looked at some of the dispatches you sent me?...I was already late before I even picked up the load! SMH....
I've never driven but I've been out OTR with my husband a few times. He's been driving for too long lol. Anyways, he's suggested to me recently about working as a dispatcher. He says I'd make a great one And we need more income, bad.
Dispatcher is a good job, if you have a family... and esp for a trained driver. Certainly would be home more.
Thanks for all the helpful info.
Well said my friend,thank you.
Thank you! Dave
Not going to say the companies name. But I was dispatched to a tire warehouse to pickup a load of tires. As it wasn't far from the terminal, I got a empty and drove to the warehouse. Got out of the truck and notified them that I was there and where I needed to back my trailer. The told me, I backed in. And jumped in the sleeper... Well about 45 minutes later, the warehouse Super, knocked on my door. so I answered him.. He told me that they are short handed and needed help loading my truck. After checking with the Dispatcher to make sure I was going to get paid to help load. Which turned out to be me and two other warehouse guys. Some 4 and half hours later we finished. And I was exhausted... I got the paperwork, and noticed that it needed to be delivered my 8am the next morning... Well that sucked. So Went back to the terminal. And instead of handing the load off to a fresh driver. MY dispatcher in Reno told me I needed to get moving. I told him, that I didn't have enough hours left to get half way there. That I was tired loading 53 foot trailer of freaking car and truck tires. That I would have to take off after I got some rest. In the End.. I dropped the trailer in Reno at Noon, drove empty to my terminal, and the let me go... 3 days before my 1 year anniversary. They wanted me to fudge my Log book so I could get there. And I just sad no.. Not breaking the law, the DOT regulations for a job.
That's one thing about ELD's, they'll help prevent that type of crap! Dave
I just wanted to thank you for posting some of the most intelligent, videos on the industry. Your commentary is spot on and completely accurate....If your ever in Montreal drop me a line...,😁
Such an awesome advice, thank you.
Working as owner operator, I'm only bring home 1200 a week. I get my dispatches late i don't get them one day before like alot of these drivers. Seems like I get the loads no one wants. I honestly think I should just leave. Been there 2 months ran 13k miles on truck and made only 7k after everything they take out
Smart-Trucking.com have you done a video on operating costs? So many drivers now don’t know there cost and don’t care. Please educate some of us about it. Thanks
Everything makes since now, thanks Dave for another good video
Thank you so much for this video. I’m currently having a really tough time with my dispatcher. I’m a lease driver and he tried to force me to work for free. He is always nasty with me and I know it is because I’m quiet and shy. I just don’t like conflict. I’ve been Otr for a year and a half and I want to be a dedicated driver and switch companies. However due to the way I’m treated now I’m afraid since I also don’t know how to pick out a good company. I don’t want to be treated like this again. I have a clean record. Recommendations please? Anything would help
I don't know how your lease is set up, but hopefully it's one you can walk away from. I'd star by telling the carrier your problem and give them a chance to give you another dispatcher. If that fails to work, I'd leave. Lots of good carriers out there looking for drivers, especially ones with clean records. Start shopping now so you have a new carrier to go to if you leave this one. No one should ever have to work with a dispatcher who mistreats them! It's not acceptable, ever!
Owners kids LOLLLL haha...ha...oh wait that's me.........
Wat is the difference between a dispatcher and fleet mang.?
arguing with the dispatcher is a lot like wrestling with a pig in the mud something they both enjoy and all you get out of it is dirty and nothing more!
I need advice please.....the trucking company I work for and it's dispatchers have thrown me under the bus multiple times since I started driving for them back in Oct '17. I've talked with my DM about not sending me to Pa, NY, NJ, MA because I just can't handle it as a brand new driver to the industry. Ive spoken to my DM about it and no one gives a shit... (my apologies for my colorful expressions) I absolutely love what I do...but I'm so tired of being thrown under the bus by these dispatches who treat and speak to me worse than trash. I had one DM and Dispatchers tell on the Qualcomm that I didn't need a 34hr reset and take the load....um, with only 6hrs left on my 70hr? Um, NO Please, can you give me tips on how to handle these dispatchers? I've been MORE than civil....
I'm sure you have. It sounds to me like it's time for you to find a better outfit to work for. Your current employer isn't going to change. You can do better than these guys! Dave
First question: '' So, mr/mrs/ms dispatcher; what is the WEATHER THERE, WHERE THE LOAD IS GOING ? And, the weather along the highway/roads I'll be taking ? "" Do i require, winter tires, wheel chains, a shovel, or a pick, etc etc . '' i'll do the best i can, timewise, but, I WILL NOT DRIVE UNSAFELY, per road conditions. The load will arrive, as ASAP, but, THE ONLY LOAD THAT IS LATE, IS ONE WHICH NEVER EVER ARRIVES ! '' ( i told one, onetime, to '' shutup and listen ! '' It is winter.....etc etc. explaining conditions '....then, shutoff cell phone.
They’re starting to call them driver managers know 😂🤣😂🤣
There are good dispatchers who will work with you, but nowadays they're far and few between. Bad dispatchers...giving them a nice hard pimp slap used to be very effective at adjusting their attitudes, but today...Daves advice is about the only path to take.
thank you for your helpful videos
Thank you! Dave
I think you can help me i was driving in Texas before Corpus Cristy TX. on 77north it was raining and a little windy. I feel something wrong I begin to lose control of the vehicle thank God help me straight it up the truck again and I stop to see what was wrong and dont found anything my load total weight was 6800 pounds. the tráiler tándem was a lo the way to the front
I thought can be the fifthwheel. but not the fifthwheel does not move so what I did was. I first move the tráiler tándem to the hole 10 or 12 to the back and it still moving to the sides and can't drive it over 55 if i go 60 it moves again. then I move it almost all the way to the back and quit moving and finally make it to my destination on bloomington Illinois.. what do you think it could be? this never happen to me i hope you understand my writing. I did Subscribe to To your chanell. hopping you can answer my questions.
DRIVER BE CAREFULL EVERY TRIP IS DIFFERENT DONT SAY I KNOW EVERYTHING OR. THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME OPEN YOUR EYES AND GOD WILL MAKE THE REST...
+Jesse Vanburen It's hard to tel without being there but it sounds to me that your load was so light the cross winds were affecting the truck. By sliding the tandems back you make the trailer more stable in a crosswind because it lengthens your overall wheelbase. That's my best guess anyway. Drive safe, Dave
Excellent video my frd
+Da MexiCAN Hope you derived some benefit from it.
wonderful video.
+one_life Project Glad you liked it.
Good video! I have a question if I may. How is it these dispatchers promise to have goods at a certain place? Do they look at the average hours it takes for a driver to get from point A to point B? Or is it they see It's about a determined mileage to reach a certain destination so they promise to have goods at said destination by a certain date at a certain time? How does that typically work exactly?
My belief lately is that they just wing it depending on what the customer needs. It used to be they'd divide the miles by a reasonable speed then add a few hours leeway and confirm with the driver to insure that was reasonable. Dave
It seems if a dispatcher should wing it as you suggest then wouldn't it be on them or the company if for whatever reason the driver can't deliver? I'm sure if such a thing should happen the dispatcher would cover their own butt and pass the blame on to the driver but it would seem at least to me that a driver could be given at least some reasonable concessions and be able to tell their side of what went wrong or what didn't.
Hi I want to learn how to be a dispatcher to help out my brother
Good tips thank you .
thanks for the info
I'd like to commend you on your video. I found it to be informative as well as entertaining. I must say tho that I disagree with you on the fact that safety manger is your ally and "friend". They are paid just like the driver manager, opp rations manager, and on up the line to the CEO or Owner of the company. So their intrest is the company and not you the driver or o/o.
Sadly, you're right, however these days the safety guy can be held liable for not abiding by the law. Dave
I've been trucking for 7 years (refer, car hauler, dry van, and line haul for FedEx). I'm looking to transition into becoming a Dispatcher so I can work remotely. Any advice?
Thanks for your honestly intensive information sir we need you to help us how we can get a professional training and good job also
thank's big bro..
Thank you, great video helpful.
Thank you! Dave
Can I work as truck dispatcher even though I don't live in usa
I have never driven, but my husband has been an o/o for several years working for companies. He suggested for some time already that I be a dispatcher to get him the loads. He stated I would make more money and work from home. How do you suggest I start? I do not have any prior experience in dispatching. Also, I am not able to pay the $3000 fee for 1 week class trainings. I am very motivated to start asap, but don't know how to. Please help!
Start canvasing the local businesses for loads. Ask your husband how much a mile he needs to be profitable and figure out how many miles the freight needs to be shipped. Dave
hey I like y'all Videos man keep them coming thanks for the advice
You're the best of! Friend! Im from Uzbekistan. And I want learn this! So this only one way to go to USA.
I have worked in a few snake pits in my day.
+Charles Dyer Sorry to hear that. Makes life pretty miserable. Always best to bail and look for greener pasture.
Thank you, what do you guys think about ascendtms for Carrier dispatchers, is there anything you prefer or recommend? I appreciate you
Fantastic advice, excellent!!👍
hi sir.i want to learn how to dispatch?can u plz tell me where can i find company or someone who teaches me how to dispatching ?
These days I believe they call dispatching "transportation management" and it's taught at colleges. I would also think some trucking companies would be willing to train you. Dave
I sued the company I used to work for and won in court. It was one of the biggest companies. They fired me because I would not break the Law for them and tried to get me to come back when they realized the trouble that was coming.Financially I screwed them good.
Dave have you ever been a teamster??
+Jess Harden Yes, long time ago, only lasted about a year and a half. Dave
Thank You!
My pleasure! Dave
A thought I've been having lately is this: What if we paid dispatcher a percentage of load instead of having them on salary or hourly? I bet they would their act together when their pay depended on making sure the drivers got what they needed.
That's a good idea, or pay them on a performance basis. Dave
Dave, is it a given never lease your truck on to where you also get the freight.?
Also how do you feel about doing business with a company that has stockholders and on the market?
Thanks
I'd never work for a trucking company that has shareholders because their profit comes before yours. As far as leasing on to a company that has their own freight, sometimes those guys are the best if they're privately owned manufacturers with their own fleet because those guys are usually paying their guys well and treating them fairly because they don't want turn over issues. Dave
Smart Trucking , I was checking out The Hub Group pulling Cans.
Thanks for the advice reply.
New subscriber! 👩👗🌴🐩
I'm hooked already. This channel is amazing and so helpful...
I am looking forwars to becoming a sucessful, understanding, and empathetic dispatcher soon. This content goes a long way in helping me understand the real world and the challenges truckers goes through on the daily, thank you!
💖💚💗👩
Thank you Jessica! Dave
Great video.Thank you Sir :)
Awsome video! 👍
I hate how they make truckers feel threatened, as if your going to loose your job if you don't rush yourself to death. understand they don't dictate your job. the way I see it, just stay in full communication at all times. that's it. they aren't on the road so they can't understand the many variables we face on the road.
How to set customer