Most staffing surprises come from things nobody asked about: conversion fees, minimum hours, overtime billing and who is responsible for what. Take these questions to every driver staffing agency you call, write the answers side by side, and get the important ones in writing.
Typical timing (rule of thumb): often days, depending on CDL class.
The Questions
- What is the bill rate, and how much of it reaches the worker as pay?
- Who handles payroll, payroll taxes, workers' compensation and unemployment insurance?
- What is the conversion fee if we hire the worker directly, and when does it drop to zero?
- What is the replacement guarantee if someone does not work out?
- Who keeps the driver qualification file?
- Who runs the DOT drug and alcohol testing and the Clearinghouse queries?
- Which CDL classes and endorsements do your drivers hold?
- Whose insurance covers the driver and vehicle?
- How do you check motor vehicle records, and how recently?
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Tips
- Agree in writing who keeps DOT driver files and testing records.
- Confirm the insurance chain before the first load.
- Job seekers: ask whether pay is hourly, per mile or per load, and what counts as paid time.
Before You Sign
- Check the rate, start date, job duties and work location in the agreement.
- Read the conversion, cancellation and overtime terms.
- Agree who trains, who supervises and who reports injuries.
- Keep the signed copy where your payroll or HR person can find it.