🗺 Terminal Base & Daily Movements
- Primary Terminal: Madison Industrial Logistics Hub, Dane County
- Operation Type: Yard spotting, trailer shuttling, short local hauls
- Freight Handled: Loaded and empty trailers, container moves between warehouses, rail ramps, and manufacturing plants
- Daily Scope: Mostly within Dane County industrial zones, occasional runs under 50 miles
🚛 Fleet & Yard Equipment Notes
- Company-owned tractors and dedicated yard trucks
- All units equipped with ELDs and current safety tech
- Configured specifically for tight yard work and short shuttle runs
- Focus on reliable terminal maneuvering rather than long-haul comfort
📦 What the Shifts Actually Look Like
Yard movements start early with spotting trailers at multiple docks across the main terminal. You'll pull loaded units for nearby distribution centers and return empties from manufacturing plants. Dispatch uses radio and tablet updates as dock congestion builds during shift changes. Expect frequent backing into tight spots, coordinating with warehouse crews, and adjusting when rail ramp schedules shift. Winter brings snow and ice that changes traction on the yard pads and connecting roads. Most days run 8–11 hours with overtime possible when volume spikes.
✅ Driver Qualification Snapshot
CDL Class A
Valid CDL-A required with current medical card
Experience
6–12 months commercial driving, yard or local preferred
Maneuvering
Strong backing and low-speed positioning skills essential
Conditions
Ability to work outdoors in all Wisconsin weather
Record
Clean MVR and ability to pass pre-employment screening
🏗️ Yard Flow Behavior
- High volume of trailer spotting during peak dock hours
- Frequent short shuttle legs between rail intermodal and warehouses
- Coordination needed with multiple warehouse teams daily
- Trailer positioning accuracy directly impacts terminal throughput
- Weather-related traction challenges common November–March
📡 Dispatch Load Patterns
- Daily task lists assigned via radio/tablet with real-time adjustments
- No-touch or minimal touch freight on most moves
- Emphasis on safe, timely trailer placement over long miles
- Opportunity for extra shifts during high-volume periods
🔗 CDL-A Yard & Local Shuttle Driver in Madison, WI
Madison Industrial Logistics runs a busy terminal and distribution network where CDL-A yard and shuttle drivers keep freight moving between warehouses, rail facilities, and manufacturing sites across Dane County. This home daily position centers on trailer shuttling, dock spotting, and short local hauls rather than high-mileage road work. Drivers work hourly at $27.50–$32.50 with overtime after 40 hours, typically bringing home $1,150–$1,550 weekly depending on extra shifts. Operations involve constant yard activity with tight backing maneuvers, coordination during shift changes, and occasional short road legs under 50 miles. Winter weather affects yard traction and local roads, while summer brings steady volume. Dispatch assigns tasks throughout the day as customer needs shift. The role suits drivers who prefer consistent local schedules, terminal-based work, and reliable home time every night over long-haul running.
🚦 Traffic & Congestion Layer
- Dock congestion peaks during morning and afternoon shift changes
- Rail ramp timing affects shuttle priority
- Local industrial roads see regular truck traffic
- Ability to work around schedule changes is key
🛣️ Typical Daily Scenarios
- Standard Yard Day: Multiple trailer spots and pulls within the main terminal
- Shuttle Run: Loaded trailer delivery to nearby distribution center with empty return
- Mixed Shift: Rail ramp container moves combined with customer warehouse drops
- High Volume: Extra overtime shifts covering additional dock work
🎁 Support & Compensation Structure
❓ Questions Drivers Usually Ask
How consistent is home time?
Home daily with all operations based in the Madison industrial area. Shifts end at the terminal.
What kind of backing is involved?
Frequent tight yard maneuvers and dock spotting. Strong backing skills are required.
Is overtime regularly available?
Yes, especially for drivers willing to cover extra yard or shuttle needs during busy periods.
Are there long road runs?
No. Most work stays local with occasional short hauls under 50 miles.
🚀 Apply for CDL-A Yard & Local Shuttle Driver Role
Submit your information below to connect with the Madison Industrial Logistics recruiting team for the yard and shuttle driver opening.