Driver Experience Initiative: 11 more updates from driver insight

Editor’s note: This is the last in a five-part series on a company-wide Schneider Driver Experience initiative. Read part 1, part 2, part 3 and part 4.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve described in detail Schneider’s long-term Driver Experience initiative, and several tangible changes we’ve implemented as a direct result of driver feedback.

In closing, I’d like to share examples of smaller-scale changes that add up to make a big difference. Large-scale changes get the headlines, but no issue is too small to consider improving, especially when it’s an issue raised by a driver.

11 Additional Schneider driver experience improvements

1. Improved reference information – we’ve streamlined the process to ensure drivers receive the reference numbers they need, reducing unnecessary delays for drivers.

2. Installed IdleAir at facilities – in Phoenix and will be adding soon in Charlotte, helping drivers that don’t have APUs stay more comfortable in the truck without needing to idle.

3. Made facility improvements – a remodel in Gary (pictured), updates in Phoenix, Laredo and West Memphis, and more to come.

4. Added more service trucks – improving equipment availability and more maintenance staff on weekends to proactively solve issues.

5. Improved Van Truckload time-at-home compliance – planning to a tighter window to hit drivers’ expectation on arriving home.

6. Enhanced pay for performance program – streamlined metrics make it easier to understand and gives drivers higher earnings potential.

7. Growth of Dedicated business – both existing accounts and new, giving even more options for drivers.

8. Developed Driver Experience education program – non-driving associates now participate in a program to learn first-hand how to improve the Schneider driver experience by focusing on valuing and streamlining drivers’ time.

9. Improved driver transportation – better service and wait time by using Uber for driver business transportation (students, airport/bus runs, tractor recovery, etc.) and expanded car rental options at Schneider facilities.

10. Enhanced Driver Services – the facility teams will arrange hotels, check permit books, print permits, help manage gate traffic at peak times and provide Tanker supplies.

11. Improved parking – adding parking in Charlotte, reconfiguring parking in other locations to accommodate additional spots and explore additional larger, long-term parking solutions.

Like I described previously with the Schneider Compass mobile app and our tablets, we will continue to gather driver feedback and make positive changes to improve the Schneider driver experience. The Driver Experience initiative is company-wide and long-term – every associate is involved, and our commitment is real.