Is there such thing as a bonus for the driver from the shipper or receiver?

So my dad was looking out for me telling me that there’s times when shippers or receivers offer a bonus for the driver but they communicate about this with the dispatcher and what ends up happening is that the dispatcher/company ends up taking the bonus. There may be a shipper or receiver saying they need a load delievered or received within x amount of days and because of that they are willing to offer a bonus. What do you guys know about this?

 

I once got a bag of Dum Dum lollipops when I got loaded at a candy manufacturer. That's the only bonus I have ever received. I would like to think it was because I did such a good job showing up on time, but I suspect they gave candy to all drivers.

 

The only bonus I ever got at a shipper or receiver was an on time door and a fast load/unload, and that didn't happen nearly often enough.

 

I can't really say if I would consider being given something named "Dum Dum" a bonus or a message....

 

I've never heard of that sort of bonus for a driver. Shippers/receivers usually prefer to have as little contact with the hobo/serial killer, I mean truck driver as possible. Sometimes they may have extra product they offer to a driver. It was pretty common when I dealt with snacks and cigarette companies. It's unheard of when dealing with automobile or appliance and electronic manufacturers.

 

I went to a potato chip shipper and they gave me a bag of baked sour cream and onion flavor.

I felt really special... LOL

 

Either way I didn't have any. They lasted about 5 minutes when I left them in the driver lounge back at the yard.

 

I personally like to give bonuses. If you go to a place often, you would be amazed what happens if you bring donuts in a few times a year.

 

There's a customer of ours that some consider to be a PIA. His freight is salvage items from the oilfield. Pick up a load for delivery to his yard and it's guaranteed they are going to try to overload you, but I have air gauges and know when to cry, "Uncle"!

I always treat shippers and receivers with respect. A "Yes Sir" or "No Sir"! Goes a long way.

From the beginning that receiver always gives me a $100 bill as a tip. The last time, after he got the bad news that he won't beat his cancer, I tried to refuse. I felt bad about it. He said, "How many more times do I have to be able to reward a man closer to what he is worth? Don't take that from me. I have a limited number of times left to show my appreciation."

That stuck with me. I have something special in my truck, waiting and hoping for at least one more chance to deliver a load for him. He's a special man. Can't wait to see him again.

 

I like some other comments have had all kinds of products gave to me. Take a box of Hershey Chocolate. Take a guess at what a box of regular size candy bars are today? I have been offered money to switch a trailer or two. I always refused because of the liability. I do agree with the above about being nice. Nice does work!