Interview

17 Box Truck Driver Interview Questions and Answers

Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from a box truck driver, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.

If you’re looking for a job that involves a lot of driving, the box truck driver position may be a good fit for you. As a box truck driver, you’ll transport goods to and from businesses and warehouses. This job can be physically demanding, so make sure you’re prepared to answer some questions about your ability to do the job.

In this guide, you’ll find several questions and answers that you can use to help you prepare for your interview.

Are you comfortable driving long distances on a daily basis?

Driving a box truck can involve long distances, so the interviewer wants to know if you’re comfortable with this. If you have experience driving long distances, share your strategies for staying alert and focused on the road. If you don’t have much experience driving long distances, explain how you would handle it.

Example: “I’ve driven across the country twice in my life, once when I was moving from California to Florida and again when I moved back to California. Both times were during summer vacations, so I didn’t have any cargo or other responsibilities while I drove. I found that taking breaks every two hours helped me stay alert and awake. I also brought along some music to listen to.”

What are some of the most important skills that a box truck driver should have?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and experience necessary for the job. They want someone who is safe, responsible and dependable. When answering this question, think about what skills you possess that are important for a box truck driver. Make a list of these skills and explain why they’re important.

Example: “The most important skill I believe a box truck driver should have is excellent driving skills. Box trucks can be difficult to drive because of their size, so it’s important to know how to maneuver them safely. Another important skill is communication. You need to be able to communicate with other drivers on the road and your team members at work. This helps keep everyone informed and aware of any issues.”

How would you handle a situation where you have to wait in a long line of traffic to get to your destination?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle stressful situations and whether you have any special skills or techniques to keep yourself calm. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you are a patient person who is willing to wait in traffic as long as it’s safe to do so.

Example: “I would use my time waiting in line to check my mirrors and make sure I’m driving safely. If there are other drivers around me who seem like they might be distracted or not paying attention, I would call them out on their behavior and remind them of the importance of safety while driving. This helps ensure everyone stays alert and aware of what’s going on around them.”

What is your experience with operating large vehicles?

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your experience operating a box truck. They want drivers who are comfortable with the size of their fleet vehicles and can operate them safely. In your answer, share what you have learned about operating large trucks in the past. Explain any training or certifications that helped you develop these skills.

Example: “I’ve driven many different types of trucks throughout my career as a driver. I started out driving smaller delivery trucks before moving up to larger tractor-trailers. I completed a certification program for commercial drivers where we practiced maneuvering large trucks through tight spaces. This training has helped me feel confident when operating box trucks like yours.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer and how you resolved the situation.

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the customer service skills necessary for the job. They want someone who can remain calm and polite when faced with a challenging situation. In your answer, try to highlight how you used your interpersonal skills to resolve the issue.

Example: “I once had a customer who was upset because I didn’t deliver their package on time. I listened to what they were saying and tried to understand where they were coming from. After that, I explained why it happened and apologized. I also offered them a discount on their next order as an apology.”

If you found an error in your delivery paperwork, how would you resolve the issue?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience with paperwork errors and how you resolve them. When answering, explain the steps you would take to fix the error and ensure your customer receives their package on time.

Example: “I once delivered a package to an address that was different than what I had written down. After realizing my mistake, I immediately called the client to let them know about the change in delivery location. They were happy to receive their package at the new location, but I also offered to deliver it again for free. The client accepted, and I delivered the package to the correct address.”

What would you do if you noticed that one of the cargo containers was not properly secured?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work as part of a team. Your answer should include steps you would take to ensure the cargo container was properly secured, along with any actions you would take to communicate this information to other drivers or supervisors.

Example: “If I noticed that one of the cargo containers wasn’t properly secured, I would first make sure it was safe for me to exit my truck to check on the container. If so, I would walk around the back of the truck to inspect the container in question. If it was not properly secured, I would secure it myself using the proper equipment. After securing the container, I would report the issue to my supervisor.”

How well can you see in the rear-view mirror while driving?

This question is a test of your ability to multitask while driving. Employers ask this question to make sure you can drive safely and avoid accidents. In your answer, explain that you are able to see in the rear-view mirror without taking your eyes off the road ahead. Explain that you have good peripheral vision and can check the mirrors quickly when necessary.

Example: “I am very comfortable checking my rear-view mirror while I’m driving. I’ve been doing it for years, so it’s second nature to me now. I can glance at the mirror and then look back at the road ahead without any issues. I also use side mirrors regularly to check blind spots.”

Do you have experience using GPS navigation systems?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience using a specific GPS system they use. If you do, share your experience and how it helped you complete your job duties. If you don’t, explain that you are willing to learn the company’s preferred navigation system.

Example: “I’ve used several different types of GPS systems in my previous jobs. I find that I prefer ones with voice commands because I can keep both hands on the wheel while giving directions. However, I am also comfortable learning new systems as long as they’re easy to use.”

When is it appropriate to take a lunch break?

Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the company’s policies regarding lunch breaks. They also want to know that you can follow directions and respect authority. Your answer should show that you are responsible, organized and able to work independently.

Example: “I take a lunch break every four hours. I find that taking a short break in between deliveries allows me to stay focused on my tasks and prevents me from getting too hungry or tired. It also gives me time to check my route and refuel the truck if necessary. If I need to take an extended break for any reason, I let my supervisor know so they can cover for me.”

We want to ensure that our drivers are well-fed while on the road. What is your favorite snack to eat while driving?

This question is a way for the interviewer to get to know you better and see if your personality matches their company culture. It also helps them understand what snacks are available in the truck. You can answer this question by mentioning one of your favorite snacks, but also mention that you would be willing to try any snacks they have on hand.

Example: “I love beef jerky while I’m driving. It’s something I always keep in my car, so I don’t need anything special from you guys. If you have some, though, I’d be happy to give it a try.”

Describe your process for cleaning and maintaining your truck.

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and knowledge necessary to keep their trucks in good condition. They want drivers who can clean, maintain and repair their vehicles on their own. In your answer, explain that you will inspect the truck before each shift to ensure it’s safe to drive. You’ll also check for any maintenance issues or problems with the vehicle.

Example: “I always start my day by inspecting the truck to see if there are any safety concerns I need to address. If there are, I fix them right away so I don’t put myself or other drivers at risk. After that, I’ll do a more thorough inspection of the entire truck to look for any damage or wear-and-tear. I’ll perform routine maintenance checks throughout the day as well. For example, I’ll change out the oil every 1,000 miles.”

What makes you an ideal candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel you would fit in with their company. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are the best candidate for this position. Think about what skills you have that other candidates might not. You can also mention any certifications or training you have that makes you an ideal choice.

Example: “I am passionate about my career as a driver and I love meeting new people. I am always on time and ready to work, and I take pride in my ability to follow directions and complete tasks efficiently. I think these qualities make me an excellent candidate for this position.”

Which other industries have you worked in that are related to transportation?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your experience and how it relates to the position. When answering, list any transportation-related jobs you’ve had in the past five years. If you haven’t worked in a related industry, explain what skills you gained from those positions that will help you succeed as a box truck driver.

Example: “I have only worked as a box truck driver for the last three years, but I also worked as a delivery person at a local restaurant while going to school. This job taught me valuable customer service skills that I use every day when interacting with customers on my route. It also helped me develop my organizational skills by learning how to manage multiple deliveries at once.”

What do you think are the most important safety precautions that box truck drivers should take?

Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to drive safely. They want to be sure that you are aware of the risks involved with driving a box truck and that you have experience practicing safe driving habits. In your answer, explain what you think drivers should do to stay safe on the road. Make sure to mention specific actions like staying alert and obeying traffic laws.

Example: “I believe the most important thing for box truck drivers to remember is to always stay alert while they’re driving. It’s easy to get distracted when you’re in such a large vehicle, but it’s crucial to keep your eyes on the road at all times. I also think it’s important to obey all traffic laws because these rules exist for a reason. If everyone followed them, there would be fewer accidents.”

How often do you perform routine maintenance on your vehicle?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience maintaining your vehicle. They want drivers who can keep their vehicles in good condition and avoid costly repairs. When answering, explain what maintenance you perform and how often you do it. If you don’t know much about car maintenance, consider asking a friend or family member for advice on the subject.

Example: “I try to perform routine maintenance every six months. I check my tire pressure, oil levels and coolant regularly. I also change my oil once per month. I learned these practices from my father when I got my driver’s license. He taught me that regular maintenance is important to keeping my truck running smoothly.”

There is a crack in the windshield and it’s starting to get cloudy. What would you do?

This question is designed to test your knowledge of safety regulations and how you would handle a situation that could put yourself or others in danger. Your answer should show the interviewer that you understand the importance of following all safety regulations, including those related to driving.

Example: “I would immediately pull over and call my dispatch to let them know what happened. I would then wait for their instructions on what to do next. If they told me to continue driving with the crack, I would make sure to drive at a safe speed and keep an eye out for any other cracks forming. If they told me to pull over and replace the windshield, I would find a safe place to park and remove myself from the vehicle until it was fixed.”

Previous

17 MDS Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Back to Interview
Next

17 Legislative Assistant Interview Questions and Answers