An aerial view of an owner-operator backing up his truck and trailer between two trailers during Schneider's orientation

Orientation

A tanker owner-operator attaches the hose to a tanker trailer while a Schneider trainer oversees in the distance

Your business success starts here.

Our mission is to help owner-operators and fleet owners build a trucking business that’s in it for the long haul. That’s why we offer an in-depth, paid orientation program to make sure you and your business are ready to roll.

  • Calendar with six dates
    Scheduling orientation with a recruiter

    The length of your owner-operator orientation depends on what kind of business you will be running. Orientation schedules span two days for Drayage owner-operators, three days for Van Truckload owner-operators and 12 days for Tanker owner-operators. Schneider will arrange and pay for single-occupancy lodging during your orientation.

    Orientation locations:

    • Drayage – Chicago, Compton, Calif., Houston, Norfolk, Va. and Savannah, Ga.
    • Van Truckload – Charlotte, N.C., Green Bay, Wis. and Phoenix.
    • Tanker – Houston.
  • Piece of paper with a check mark in the center of the page and the right corner folded in
    Preparing for orientation

    Your recruiter will work with you to set up a drug screen prior to orientation. You’ll also need to fill out some processing forms. Ask your recruiter which forms apply to you.

  • Orange construction cone with two white stripes
    Attending orientation

    Meeting your advisor

    You will be introduced to your Business Owner Advisor in-person or virtually. Your advisor will be there to support you while you're out on the road by assisting with issues concerning loads, compensation or anything else that may come up. They will be your go-to person, no matter where you are.

    Truck inspection

    All drivers must have a truck in order to start orientation. Your truck(s) will have a maintenance appointment and inspection to ensure that it meets DOT requirements. We will also install a Samsung tablet and base plate (if taken through Schneider).

    Road test

    After your truck passes inspection, you’ll be asked to take it out on the road for a skills qualification test. The test will include various steps, such as a pre-trip inspection, coupling/uncoupling procedures and a road course.

    Classroom orientation

    In the classroom, you’ll get an introduction to Schneider's easy-to-use Samsung tablet—which includes electronic logs, a trip planning refresher and, most importantly, a review of safety tips. We’ll also provide you with information about our facility procedures and anything else you’ll need to know as an owner-operator or fleet owner with Schneider.

  • White semi-truck tractor
    After completing orientation

    You will be compensated for successfully completing Schneider’s owner-operator orientation (curriculum and truck inspection). By this point, you will have all the knowledge and resources you need to start doing business with Schneider. You can take the reins and start running your business your way.