Recently , A4DD launched a tool to connect its members with CLDA member companies as a more effective way for drivers to find work . “ Too many drivers rely on trucking-type load boards and gig platforms without understanding how to connect to better opportunities with local and regional delivery companies ,” says Schlactus . “ Many drivers don ’ t particularly like the work they get through the firms with big online advertising budgets . We believe that a lot of drivers ’ issues would be solved by contracting with reputable companies that are part of the CLDA , and we are pointing them in that direction .”
Benefits of Professional Development for Drivers to CLDA Members
Ultimately , the support A4DD gives drivers benefits the CLDA members that work with them . “ I think the whole supply chain profits from a more professional pool of drivers ,” he says .
He outlines the benefits to courier companies this way :
New driver recruitment of delivery-ready drivers “ We ’ ve set our sights on making it easier to recruit more drivers to the industry ,” says Schlactus . “ We ’ re developing additional training and other resources to make delivery work more appealing and rewarding .”
Driver retention “ We help with retention because if a driver has lower expenses and better skills , that ’ s going to translate into more success and more retention . Ultimately that means more longevity in the business ,” he says .
Higher service standards and lower risks “ We can provide training , push down the insurance-related costs of risk , and promote safety in ways that delivery companies can ’ t really do themselves ,” he says . “ Delivery companies are in a bind with IC driver development . Companies can ’ t cross the line into control , but there ’ s nothing stopping them from pointing the drivers in A4DD ’ s direction . For example , we offer free safety incentive and rewards programs to our members . That ’ s something that any transportation fleet would be doing with their employees and emphasizing to their insurance company , but independent contractor-based companies can ’ t do that without threatening the IC model .”
Turning Cats into Water
According to Schlactus , the association performs a magic trick for the delivery industry he refers to as “ Turning cats into water .”
Here ’ s how he explains it : “ Before A4DD , getting drivers to comply with professional standards on their own was like herding cats . If delivery companies can point drivers to an easy and affordable solution – and preferably several solutions all in one place – you can avoid the herding . Now , a company can say , ‘ This is what we need or want . It ’ s up to you how to get it . We suggest you check out this Association .’ Drivers will naturally gravitate to the easiest and most affordable option like water flowing downhill . Plus , we ’ ve got some tips to take care of any holdouts . And voila ! Those pesky cats have melted into a manageable onboarding stream .”
Schlactus sees the professionalization of drivers as one of the most important innovations to benefit the industry . “ The elevation and support of these drivers is a win , win , win . I say that three times because it ’ s a win for the drivers to be able to spend less to professionalize themselves . It ’ s a win for the vendors to be able to access independent drivers without having to go through delivery companies . And it ’ s a win for the delivery companies because they get a larger and more qualified pool of drivers .”
Creating a Larger and More Skilled Pool of Drivers
Organizations like Courier Business Academy and the Association for Delivery Drivers provide something new for the industry . These players take advantage of modern technology and communication to approach and elevate drivers directly , not simply through larger delivery companies . Both help create a larger and more skilled pool of drivers and raise driver awareness about traditional delivery and logistics companies . With drivers benefiting as well from better training and resources , CBA and A4DD are creating a new ‘ win-win ’ formula for the delivery industry . CLDA spring 2023 I customized logistics & delivery Magazine 33