20 ABF Freight Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to logistics and transportation, ABF Freight is a company that knows how to get the job done. With a wide array of services and a commitment to customer satisfaction, ABF Freight is a great choice for businesses looking for a reliable partner.

If you’re considering a career with ABF Freight, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some specific interview questions about the company and its services. In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common ABF Freight interview questions, so you can go into your interview with confidence.

ABF Freight Interview Process

The interview process at ABF Freight is generally positive, with most reviewers finding it to be quick, easy, and stress-free. However, some applicants report that the process can take up to three months from start to finish.

ABF Freight uses both phone and in-person interviews to screen candidates for open positions. The first step is usually a phone interview with a recruiter, followed by an in-person interview with a hiring manager. For some positions, applicants may also be required to take a skills test or participate in a panel interview.

Overall, reviewers find the interviewers at ABF Freight to be professional and knowledgeable. However, some applicants report that the questions can be difficult to answer if you don’t have previous work experience in the field.

1. What would you do if a shipment arrived to the warehouse damaged?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle challenging situations at work. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “If a shipment arrived damaged, I would first assess the extent of the damage and determine if it was possible to repair the items or if they needed to be replaced. If there were multiple damaged items in the shipment, I would contact the client immediately to let them know what happened and discuss our options for resolving the issue. Depending on the situation, we may need to replace all damaged items or only some of them.”

2. Describe your experience with customer service.

Customer service is an important part of the logistics industry. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with customers and can handle any challenges that may arise during your shift. Use your answer to explain how you would approach a customer who was upset or needed help.

Example: “I’ve worked in customer service for over five years, so I understand how important it is to provide excellent service to our clients. When handling a difficult situation, I try to remain calm and listen to what the customer has to say. This helps me better understand their concerns and find solutions. If they are still unhappy after speaking with me, I will offer to speak with my manager about resolving the issue.”

3. Why do you want to work at ABF Freight?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are a good fit for their company. Use your answer to highlight any personal or professional experiences that relate to ABF Freight’s mission, values or goals.

Example: “I want to work at ABF Freight because I am passionate about helping businesses succeed by providing them with quality transportation services. In my last role as an operations manager, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of a shipping facility, including hiring new drivers and training existing ones. One day, one of our drivers called in sick, so I had to find someone to cover his route. I ended up finding a driver who was willing to take on extra hours, which helped us keep our customers happy.”

4. Are you prepared to meet safety requirements, such as wearing personal protective equipment?

ArcBest Corporation requires all employees to follow safety protocols and procedures. This question helps the interviewer determine if you are prepared to meet these requirements. Use your answer to highlight your commitment to workplace safety.

Example: “I am committed to following all safety regulations, including wearing personal protective equipment when necessary. I understand that ArcBest Corporation has a zero tolerance policy for not following safety protocols. In my last role, I was responsible for ensuring our drivers were in compliance with company policies. I would regularly check their vehicles and ensure they had all required documentation.”

5. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an irate customer or client.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and challenging situations. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “I once had a customer who was upset because they didn’t receive their package on time. I listened carefully to what the client said and asked questions to clarify any details that were unclear. Then, I looked at our records to see if there was an error in shipping or delivery. After looking through all of the information, I determined that the package arrived on time but the customer wasn’t home to sign for it. I apologized for the inconvenience and offered them a discount on their next order.”

6. We are looking for someone who can work independently and in a team environment, how well do you think you fit that description?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work independently and in a team environment. You can highlight your skills by describing how you have worked with others in the past, especially if you’ve had positive experiences working as part of a team.

Example: “I am very comfortable working both independently and collaboratively. In my last role, I was responsible for managing all aspects of our shipping operations, including customer service, compliance and logistics. However, I also enjoyed collaborating with my team members on projects that required multiple people’s input.”

7. Do you have experience working with dangerous goods?

ArcBest Corporation transports dangerous goods, so the interviewer wants to make sure you have experience working with these materials. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work safely and efficiently in a potentially hazardous environment.

Example: “I’ve worked with dangerous goods before, but I always take extra precautions when handling them. For example, once I was transporting flammable liquids that were highly explosive. To ensure safety, I made sure my truck had all of its required safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and emergency exits. I also ensured that my team members knew how to react if there was an accident.”

8. How much experience do you have loading and unloading trucks?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with a specific task that is important to ArcBest Corporation. Use your answer to highlight any skills you have and how they benefit you in this role.

Example: “I’ve worked as a truck driver for five years, so I am very familiar with loading and unloading trucks. In my previous position, I was responsible for driving the truck to its destination and then unloading it by myself. This required me to use all of my strength to lift heavy boxes and crates from the truck bed. I also had to be careful not to damage anything while moving them.”

9. If hired, what challenges would you expect to face on this job?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re aware of the challenges that come with working for their company. They want to know that you’re prepared to handle these challenges and will be able to perform well despite them. In your answer, explain what you would do if faced with a challenge at work. Try to show that you have the skills and experience needed to overcome any obstacles.

Example: “I expect there will be many challenges in this role. I’m used to handling difficult situations, however, so I am confident that I can succeed no matter what happens. For example, when faced with an unexpected delay or problem, I would first assess the situation and then find a solution. I would communicate clearly with my team members about the issue and how we plan to resolve it.”

10. Have you ever driven a truck before?

This question is a common one for employers to ask because they want to know if you have experience driving large trucks. If you do, share your previous experience and how it helped you in the role. If you don’t, explain that you are willing to learn how to drive a truck.

Example: “I’ve driven a semi-truck before when I was working as an ABF driver. It was my first time driving a big rig, but I quickly learned how to maneuver it through traffic and make deliveries on time. My previous experience has given me valuable insight into what it takes to be a professional truck driver.”

11. Can you tell us about a time where you were able to solve a problem creatively?

This question can help the interviewer understand your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to challenges. Use examples from previous work experiences where you used creativity to solve a challenge or overcome an obstacle.

Example: “In my last role, I was responsible for managing a team of drivers who were transporting goods across state lines. One day, one of our trucks broke down in the middle of a highway, which caused a traffic jam that lasted several hours. This situation could have been dangerous if it happened at night, but luckily, it occurred during daylight hours.

I immediately contacted the company’s dispatch department to send another truck to pick up the goods and transport them to their destination. Then, I called the local police department to ask for assistance with clearing the road so we could get the broken-down truck off the highway safely. The police officers helped us clear the road and escorted the second truck to its destination.”

12. Does it bother you to be standing for the majority of your shift?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your physical stamina and ability to work long hours. It’s important to be honest about any limitations you have, but also show that you can overcome them with hard work and determination.

Example: “I’m used to standing for long periods of time as part of my current job, so it doesn’t bother me too much. However, I am always looking for ways to improve my posture and reduce fatigue while on the job. For example, I recently purchased an anti-fatigue mat to use at my desk. This has helped me feel more energized throughout the day.”

13. How do you handle conflict in the workplace?

ABF Freight, ArcBest Corporation is a company that values teamwork and collaboration. Your answer to this question can show the interviewer how you handle conflict in general and specifically with your coworkers.

Example: “I believe it’s important to be open and honest when there are disagreements or misunderstandings among team members. I try to approach my colleagues directly and respectfully to discuss any issues so we can find solutions together. If I feel like the issue is more serious, I will bring it up with my manager so they can help resolve the problem.”

14. Would you say that you are a fast learner?

This question is a great way to determine how quickly you can adapt to new situations and learn new information. Employers ask this question because they want to know that you are capable of learning their company’s policies, procedures and systems. They also want to know if you will be able to learn the job on your own or if you will need additional training. In your answer, try to show that you are willing to put in the effort to learn everything you need to do your job well.

Example: “I would definitely say that I am a fast learner. Throughout my career, I have had many different roles and responsibilities. Each time I was promoted to a new position, I needed to learn all of the new tasks associated with it. I find that I am quite good at adapting to change and figuring out new processes.”

15. As a driver, what makes you stand out from other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. When answering, it’s important to highlight a skill that makes you unique from other drivers. You may also want to mention any certifications or licenses you have.

Example: “I am an experienced driver with a Class A license. I’ve been driving for over 10 years now, so I know the ins and outs of the job. In my last position, I was one of the top drivers in the fleet because I always made sure to follow all safety protocols. I’m also very familiar with the latest technology when it comes to tracking shipments.”

16. We are looking for someone who is comfortable using computers, what software programs are you familiar with?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience using the company’s software programs. If they don’t mention which ones, it is okay to ask what they use and how often you would be expected to use them.

Example: “I am familiar with all of the major shipping software programs including UPS Worldship, FedEx Ship Manager and DAT PowerShip. I also know how to use Microsoft Office Suite for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations.”

17. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Employers ask this question to learn about your career goals. They want to know if you plan to stay with their company for a long time or if you’re looking for something more temporary. When answering, be honest and specific about what you hope to achieve in the next five years. Explain how working at ArcBest Corporation will help you reach those goals.

Example: “I see myself as an operations manager by then. I would love to work my way up through the ranks here at ArcBest Corporation until I’m ready for that role. I think it’s important to take some time to get to know the company before making such a big move. In the meantime, I’d like to continue learning from my current supervisor and taking on new challenges.”

18. Give an example of a successful sales pitch you made.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your communication skills and how you can persuade others. Use examples from previous jobs or include a sample sales pitch in your cover letter if you’re applying for an entry-level position.

Example: “In my last role, I had the opportunity to present our company’s services to a new client. The client was looking for a reliable shipping service that could transport their goods across state lines. I used my knowledge of our company’s capabilities and experience to convince them that we were the right fit for their business.”

19. What are some methods you use to make sure your clients are satisfied?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you will interact with clients and customers. Use examples from your experience to show that you value customer service and are willing to go above and beyond for clients.

Example: “I always make sure I am available to answer questions or concerns my clients may have. In my last role, a client called me at 9 p.m. because they were missing an item in their shipment. I stayed on the phone with them until we found the missing item and shipped it out. This helped build trust between us and ensured they would continue using our services.”

20. What would you do if you saw another employee operating their forklift unsafely?

Forklifts are a common piece of equipment in warehouses and distribution centers, so employers want to make sure you know how to operate them safely. They also want to ensure that you’re willing to report unsafe behavior by your coworkers. Your answer should include the steps you would take to address the situation directly with the employee and inform management if they don’t respond.

Example: “I would first ask my coworker to stop operating the forklift unsafely. If they continue to do so after I’ve asked them to stop, I would immediately report it to management. Forklifts can be dangerous when operated improperly, so I would rather have someone else handle the situation than put myself or others at risk.”