Yard Spotting
Yard Spotting is a specialized skill in the trucking industry where drivers move trailers around a facility's yard or terminal. It involves safely repositioning trailers between loading docks and parking spots, organizing the yard efficiently, and ensuring trailers are properly placed for loading or unloading. This task is crucial for keeping warehouse and distribution center operations running smoothly. Yard Spotters (also called Yard Jockeys or Hostlers) typically use special trucks called yard trucks or terminal tractors, which are designed to be more maneuverable than regular semi-trucks.
Examples in Resumes
Performed Yard Spotting duties for a busy distribution center, managing 100+ trailer movements daily
5 years experience as Yard Jockey at major retail distribution center
Certified Yard Hostler with excellent safety record in trailer positioning and organization
Typical job title: "Yard Spotters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Yard Spotters
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a yard with multiple urgent loading dock requests during peak hours?
Expected Answer: An experienced yard spotter should explain their prioritization strategy, communication with dispatch and dock workers, and how they maintain efficiency while ensuring safety. They should mention specific examples from past experience.
Q: What system do you use to keep track of trailer locations in a large yard?
Expected Answer: Should describe experience with yard management systems, manual tracking methods, or computer systems used. Should emphasize importance of accurate record-keeping and communication with other shifts.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety checks do you perform before moving a trailer?
Expected Answer: Should list key safety points like checking landing gear, glad hands, kingpin connection, and looking for flat tires or other visible issues. Should emphasize the importance of thorough inspection.
Q: How do you handle difficult weather conditions while spotting?
Expected Answer: Should explain adjustments made for rain, snow, or ice, including reduced speed, increased checking of surfaces, and extra precautions when connecting/disconnecting trailers.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the proper procedure for coupling and uncoupling trailers?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic steps of connecting and disconnecting trailers safely, including checking kingpin engagement and landing gear position.
Q: How do you communicate with dock workers and other drivers?
Expected Answer: Should mention use of radio systems, hand signals, or other communication methods, and stress the importance of clear communication for safety and efficiency.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic trailer maneuvering
- Safety procedures knowledge
- Radio communication
- Basic yard organization
Mid (1-3 years)
- Efficient trailer positioning
- Weather condition handling
- Multiple trailer coordination
- Yard management systems use
Senior (3+ years)
- High-volume yard management
- Team coordination
- Problem-solving in complex situations
- Training and mentoring others
Red Flags to Watch For
- No valid CDL license
- Poor safety record or multiple accidents
- Inability to work flexible hours
- Poor communication skills
- Limited knowledge of DOT regulations
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