Shippers/receivers that want your keys

I have a split key ring for the truck, one half is just the ignition key and the company return info (drop in mail if lost keyfob) the other half is my ignition key (it also opens my sidecompartment), fuel key, and key for my padlock. When they ask for a key, I only give them the half with the key and keyfob, nothing else. This was, if it's lost (and I have had a reciever misplace the key before) I can still start the truck and fuel in our yard. If they ask for the entire set (if they notice the quick release) I ask them what will they give me in return to guarentee they don't loose my entire key set. If they say nothing, then we have a problem. The only customer where I give them everything is Costco store that we deliver, and that's only because I'm on the dock the entire time and I know where they put the keys because I watch them put them there.

 

The only time I've been ask for my key's was when I was making a delivery prison. As a matter of fact, they just ask me to keep the key out of the ignition.

 

I'm glad to give it to them ... if it means I'm one step closer to getting loaded and out of there, and if it makes them happy, fine. I prefer them to lock up the trailer emergency glad-hand, though.

 

I usually ask them which key would they like, the one on my key ring, the one in the ignition or the one in my wallet? I don't tell them about the one taped to the truck itself.

 

I've always just gave them the spare key, no big deal but yea it's surprising that places like that don't think drivers have an extra key with them. Probably came about that someone drove away from the dock with a forklift still inside. A glad hand lock is more effective but whatever floats their boat.

 

In tankers it's a safety issue and very common. Not only do they take my keys but put a flag in front of the tractor, chock the wheels , make me get out and over lock the emergency glad hand.

I cannot tell you how many drivers have driven off while still hooked up and destroy thousands of dollars in equipment plus the spill they create. I'm insulted but I get it.

Some also take my CDL and my cell phone. Just be cool, play along and do what I do, have sets of throw down keys and phones and a copy of your CDL or get a state ID. It's a power trip and a control issue magnified by 911 so get used to it.

JMO

 

It only makes me wonder.
Who was the idiot who pulled away from the dock with the loader still in the trailer. It doesn't take much to figure WHY they ask for the keys. It's so they can go home alive too.

 

I will give them my keys but not my cellphone. If they want that I want a deposit!