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Intro:
Your dispatcher isn’t just a voice on the other end of the phone—they’re the one deciding when, where, and how often you roll. A solid relationship with dispatch can mean more miles, better routes, and fewer headaches. And no, you don’t need to send cookies or gas station trinkets to stay on their good side. Here are 10 simple, professional ways to build a better working relationship with your dispatcher—especially when they’re remote.
1. Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Reply to texts and calls promptly. Let them know about delays, breakdowns, or changes in your ETA as soon as possible. Clear communication = trust.
2. Be Reliable
Do what you say you’re going to do. Show up on time. Deliver as promised. Nothing earns dispatcher respect faster than a dependable driver they can count on.
3. Stay Calm Under Pressure
Loads fall apart. Traffic sucks. Customers are sometimes impossible. But if you can stay calm and professional when things go sideways, your dispatcher will remember—and likely go to bat for you when you need help.
4. Don’t Make Every Call a Complaint
Yes, voice your concerns when needed. But mix in the positives too. Thank them when things go well. Share quick wins. Positivity is contagious—and appreciated.
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5. Keep It Professional
Friendly is good—flirty, overly personal, or too casual? Not so much. Keep things respectful, focused, and drama-free. They’re working hard too.
6. Be Flexible When You Can
You don’t have to say yes to every load, but being willing to help out now and then (especially on tough loads) builds goodwill. Dispatchers remember who steps up.
7. Use the Tools They Give You
If your fleet uses an app or system for check-ins, paperwork, or load updates—use it. Don’t make dispatch chase you for info they could’ve had through a quick tap on the screen.
8. Ask, Don’t Demand
Need time off? Want better routes? Ask respectfully, and give notice. Coming in hot with ultimatums doesn’t win you friends—it creates tension.
9. Give Them the Heads-Up
Don’t spring surprises. If you’re sick, need repairs, or plan to take time off, let them know as early as possible. It helps them plan—and shows you respect their job.
10. Say Thank You (Really)
It takes two seconds, and it matters. When your dispatcher pulls off a tight schedule, helps you avoid a deadhead, or finds you a better drop—thank them. They notice.
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Final Word:
You don’t need to suck up to have a great dispatcher relationship. Just be the kind of driver you’d want to work with: dependable, professional, and respectful. That alone will put you in the top tier—and the better treatment and loads will follow.
Have a great dispatcher story or tip? Drop it in the comments or tag us at #TruckStopReport and give your dispatcher a digital shoutout.
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