How we request services
Procedures for hired trucking service requests
Each branch will request hired trucking services from their branch list of hired truckers in ranking order.
If they use up their branch list, they will need to go next to other branch lists as follows:
- The Streets Branch will first use their branch list in ranking order, then the Sewers Branch list, then Waterworks Branch list, and then to the global group in their current rotation order
- The Sewers Branch will first use their branch list in ranking order, then the Waterworks Branch list, then the Streets Branch list, and then the global group in their current rotation order
- The Waterworks Branch will first use their branch list in ranking order, then the Streets Branch list, then the Sewers Branch list, and then the global group in their current rotation order
The global group of hired truckers will receive service requests on a rotation basis.
The position on this rotation for next service request is tracked by means of an internal dispatching program used by the branch dispatchers.
The goal is to distribute work requests equally between hired truckers in that group.
Other specific procedures
1. When a crew has a need for extra hauling services using tandems with pups, then that work will be given to branch list hired truckers currently on the job and not using their pup. This request will not extend to branch list truckers working at other sites.
2. After a global hired trucker has been doing work for a branch on the same job for one week, their service will be discontinued and a new global hired trucker will be requested for the work. This supports the goal of distributing work between hired truckers in the global group.
3. Whenever the following conditions are met:
- A hired trucker on the branch list has not provided services to the branch for five business days
- And is available to provide trucking services
- And a hired trucker not on the branch list (either global or from another branch list) is providing services to the branch
If all of the above conditions are met, the branch may discontinue its request for services from the hired trucker not on the branch list, and instead request services from the hired trucker on the branch list.
4. When a hired trucker from one branch list is working for another branch it will finish its assignment with the other branch before being given new service requests from their home branch, except where procedure three, above, applies.
Important notes
In day- to-day practice, it is generally intended that the hiring of trucking and haulage service providers be based on the procedures noted above.
However, due to the nature of engineering operations work, there will be occasions when some hiring or job assignments may occur out of order due to the needs of a branch on a particular day. In most cases, the selection process noted above will be followed.
Branches are giving priority for service requests to hired truckers on their branch list. Those same branch list hired truckers are expected to accept work offered from their branch if they are available to provide hauling services, and not to refuse that offer in order to be available for requests from other branches
Earlier start times for new work
It has been considered, but is not operationally feasible, for dispatchers to ensure that the branch list hired truckers with the highest ranking be given the earlier start times for new work because branches will be requesting services at different times and sometimes late.
The early start requests may occur at a later time after a higher ranking hired trucker has already accepted an earlier request for services.