One of the strengths of the Engage forum is how openly members discuss real operational challenges and how quickly others jump in to help. A recent question sparked a thoughtful and eye-opening conversation about something many companies face: pre-employment drug test delays.
A member shared that when drivers travel across the country for orientation, test results don’t always come back on time. In most cases it’s a short delay, but recently they faced a 21-day wait caused by an over-the-counter nasal spray. During that time, her team provided a truck for the driver to stay in, a company vehicle for transportation, and in some cases has even paid drivers while they wait.
The member asked the community:
The responses reflected the wide range of company sizes, resources, and approaches across the industry.
Another member explained that their company reduces complications by having drivers complete drug tests before they travel for orientation. This helps avoid costly lodging, travel, or downtime if there’s a delay or problem with the results.
Another member shared that she follows a similar process. She builds strong relationships with clinics she trusts and keeps a close eye on turnaround times. Advance planning is essential for smaller carriers who may not have trucks or hotels available. When results take longer than 2–3 days, she follows up, as most tests historically come back quickly.
She also shared something powerful: Drivers can tell within the first week whether a company truly values them. Her message was so impactful that another member immediately responded, saying she planned to share the feedback with her recruiting and dispatch teams.
This is exactly the kind of exchange that makes Engage special.
When questions like this are posted in Engage, they become opportunities for:
Hearing from people across roles such as HR, compliance, safety, operations, AND drivers creates a deeper, more complete picture of how decisions affect real people.
If your company handles drug test delays differently…
If you’ve built policies that support drivers during onboarding…
If you’ve faced a situation that others could learn from…
Or if you’re a driver who’s lived through this yourself…
Visit the thread and add your voice. You might help another company improve their process, support a new driver, or strengthen someone’s onboarding experience.
Share your experiences - your perspective makes our community stronger.
As a member of the Women In Trucking Association, stay on top of emerging trends and business issues impacting transportation and logistics; learn the importance of gender diversity in the workplace and the need for more women drivers; and see best practices in encouraging the employment of women in the trucking industry. Join today! Learn More