Finding qualified truck drivers is becoming increasingly difficult these days. The driver shortage is clearly noticeable in the logistics industry, and many companies are looking for new ways to fill vacancies. Recruiting truck drivers from abroad is a promising option. This approach offers numerous advantages to companies, but also presents some challenges. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about hiring truck drivers from abroad.
Why Hire Truck Drivers from Abroad?
The shortage of truck drivers in Germany is severe. According to the German Federal Association for Freight Transport, Logistics and Disposal (BGL), there is currently a shortage of around 60,000 truck drivers. The consequences are noticeable: empty supermarket shelves, delivery delays, and rising prices. To counteract this, more and more companies are turning to recruiting truck drivers from abroad.
“For many companies, recruiting truck drivers from abroad is the only way to meet their need for qualified personnel,” says Michael Schmidt, logistics expert and author of the book “Successful Personnel Recruitment in the Logistics Industry.”
The advantages are obvious:
- Access to a larger pool of applicants: In many countries, there is a surplus of qualified truck drivers who are willing to work in Germany.
- Lower personnel costs: Labor costs for truck drivers are significantly lower in some countries than in Germany.
- Diversity in the company: Hiring employees from different countries promotes cultural diversity and can lead to new ideas and perspectives.
Hiring international truck drivers: Job interview with recruiter and foreign truck driver candidate.
What Requirements Must Truck Drivers from Abroad Meet?
Hiring truck drivers from abroad is subject to certain requirements.
- Driver’s license: The foreign driver’s license must be recognized in Germany. Usually, a conversion of the driver’s license is required.
- Language skills: Good German language skills are essential to ensure communication in everyday work.
- Knowledge of German traffic regulations: Foreign truck drivers must master German traffic rules and regulations.
- Work permit: Nationals from countries outside the EU require a work permit to be allowed to work in Germany.
How Do I Find Suitable Truck Drivers from Abroad?
There are several ways to find suitable truck drivers from abroad:
- Recruitment agencies: There are specialized recruitment agencies that focus on recruiting truck drivers from abroad.
- Online job boards: International online job portals such as Stepstone or Indeed offer companies the opportunity to place job advertisements in various languages.
- Social networks: LinkedIn and Xing are good platforms for getting in touch with potential candidates.
Recruiting international truck drivers: Laptop showing job ad for truck drivers.
What Should Be Considered When Integrating Truck Drivers from Abroad?
The integration of truck drivers from abroad is an important factor for the success of recruitment.
- Support with official procedures: Help your new employees with applying for a work permit, finding accommodation, and other formalities.
- Language courses: Offer your employees the opportunity to participate in German courses to improve their language skills.
- Integration in the company: Create an open and integrative corporate culture in which your new employees feel welcome and valued.
Is Hiring Truck Drivers from Abroad Worthwhile?
Recruiting truck drivers from abroad is an investment that can pay off. Companies gain access to a larger pool of applicants and can meet their need for qualified personnel.
Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of the challenges and to carefully plan the integration of new employees. With the right approach, companies can benefit from the advantages of international recruitment and at the same time contribute to the integration of people from other countries.
Further Questions About Hiring Truck Drivers from Abroad:
- What funding opportunities are available for companies that hire truck drivers from abroad?
- What are the costs of recruiting truck drivers from abroad?
- What legal framework conditions must be observed when employing foreign truck drivers?
Do you need support in finding qualified truck drivers? On autorepairaid.com you will find further information and helpful tips on the subject of trucks and logistics.
