Tackling the Labor Shortage in Logistics: Tetra Shift's Success in Training Skilled Drivers
In a groundbreaking step towards addressing labor shortages in Japan's logistics sector, Tetra Shift recently celebrated a major milestone as it trained its first foreign skilled driver under the newly implemented Specific Skills (Automotive Transportation) system. This initiative, which was initiated in December 2024, allows foreign workers to operate as truck, bus, and taxi drivers in Japan. On July 25, 2025, Bui Trong Gia, a 25-year-old from Vietnam, marked a significant achievement by becoming the first skilled driver employed by Daiwa Transport, based in Gyoda City, Saitama. Tetra Shift, based in Toshima, Tokyo, played a vital role in facilitating Bui's employment and training.
The Specific Skills (Automotive Transportation) system aims to mitigate the workforce scarcity that the logistics industry faces. The Japanese government has set a target to welcome up to 24,500 foreign drivers over the next five years, responding to the pressing need for drivers in both logistics and public transport sectors. As of spring 2025, the first drivers under this new scheme began their careers, although the number remains limited with many logistics companies still exploring their acceptance.
Tetra Shift, recognized as a registered support organization authorized by the Immigration Services Agency, collaborates with driving schools like Hanju Motors School in Saitama and Hiwasawa Driving School in Tokushima. By suggesting the Specific Skills system to Daiwa Transport, Tetra Shift initiated Bui's successful employment journey. After presenting multiple candidates that met Daiwa's criteria, Bui was chosen after several interview rounds. Having previously arrived in Japan as a technical intern in 2019, Bui aimed to take on new challenges within the automotive transportation field. His prior experience included obtaining a Japanese driving license, which significantly facilitated his entry into this new role. Following the completion of about a month of training, he began working independently in August.
Bui's primary hurdle was passing the mandatory skills evaluation test needed for the Specific Skills residency status. This test, specifically created for the foreign driver system, includes 50 questions across topics like operations, cargo handling, and safety. The questions are primarily in Japanese, and understanding industry-specific terminology is crucial for success. Tetra Shift crafted original study materials tailored to ensure candidate success and provided Bui with three hours of specialized test prep, resulting in his first-attempt success. Additionally, they supported Bui in finding suitable accommodation, checked past tax records, and assisted him with necessary licensing.
Atsuko Sakamoto, President of Daiwa Transport, expressed her views on the challenges faced during the recruitment and integration of Bui into the team. Despite initial uncertainties surrounding the nuances of employing a skilled foreign driver, her commitment to equal treatment in the workplace and proactive communication strategies, including using smartphone translation tools, allowed for a smoother integration process. Bui's ability to write daily reports in Japanese and the curiosity he shows about clients are notable indicators of his growth and dedication. His enthusiasm to gain additional licensing, such as a truck drive license, has raised hopes for a successful ongoing collaboration.
Hanju Motors School, known for its expertise in training foreign nationals, provided vital education leading up to Bui's licensure. With a Vietnamese interpreter on staff, the school facilitated a supportive learning environment, enabling Bui to achieve the quickest possible graduation. The program gained significant attention from media, highlighting the emerging role of foreign skilled drivers in Japan.
Tetra Shift is committed to sustaining a high standard of education for the Specific Skills system, not only through in-country initiatives but also by preparing candidates overseas with extensive training on Japanese traffic regulations prior to their arrival. Through partnerships with driving schools in Vietnam, they ensure that candidates undergo practical driving training before immigration, thereby enhancing the sustainability of their programs.
As Tetra Shift and Daiwa Transport navigate this new landscape of skilled foreign labor in Japan's transportation sector, they set an inspiring precedent for the potential of inclusive growth and diversity within the industry. Interested companies can reach out to Tetra Shift to learn more about their recruitment and support services.
For further information:
Overview of the Specific Skills System
The Specific Skills (Automotive Transportation) system aims to mitigate the workforce scarcity that the logistics industry faces. The Japanese government has set a target to welcome up to 24,500 foreign drivers over the next five years, responding to the pressing need for drivers in both logistics and public transport sectors. As of spring 2025, the first drivers under this new scheme began their careers, although the number remains limited with many logistics companies still exploring their acceptance.
Recruitment Process
Tetra Shift, recognized as a registered support organization authorized by the Immigration Services Agency, collaborates with driving schools like Hanju Motors School in Saitama and Hiwasawa Driving School in Tokushima. By suggesting the Specific Skills system to Daiwa Transport, Tetra Shift initiated Bui's successful employment journey. After presenting multiple candidates that met Daiwa's criteria, Bui was chosen after several interview rounds. Having previously arrived in Japan as a technical intern in 2019, Bui aimed to take on new challenges within the automotive transportation field. His prior experience included obtaining a Japanese driving license, which significantly facilitated his entry into this new role. Following the completion of about a month of training, he began working independently in August.
Support Provided by Tetra Shift
Bui's primary hurdle was passing the mandatory skills evaluation test needed for the Specific Skills residency status. This test, specifically created for the foreign driver system, includes 50 questions across topics like operations, cargo handling, and safety. The questions are primarily in Japanese, and understanding industry-specific terminology is crucial for success. Tetra Shift crafted original study materials tailored to ensure candidate success and provided Bui with three hours of specialized test prep, resulting in his first-attempt success. Additionally, they supported Bui in finding suitable accommodation, checked past tax records, and assisted him with necessary licensing.
Comment from Daiwa Transport’s President
Atsuko Sakamoto, President of Daiwa Transport, expressed her views on the challenges faced during the recruitment and integration of Bui into the team. Despite initial uncertainties surrounding the nuances of employing a skilled foreign driver, her commitment to equal treatment in the workplace and proactive communication strategies, including using smartphone translation tools, allowed for a smoother integration process. Bui's ability to write daily reports in Japanese and the curiosity he shows about clients are notable indicators of his growth and dedication. His enthusiasm to gain additional licensing, such as a truck drive license, has raised hopes for a successful ongoing collaboration.
Focus on Education and Training
Hanju Motors School, known for its expertise in training foreign nationals, provided vital education leading up to Bui's licensure. With a Vietnamese interpreter on staff, the school facilitated a supportive learning environment, enabling Bui to achieve the quickest possible graduation. The program gained significant attention from media, highlighting the emerging role of foreign skilled drivers in Japan.
Tetra Shift is committed to sustaining a high standard of education for the Specific Skills system, not only through in-country initiatives but also by preparing candidates overseas with extensive training on Japanese traffic regulations prior to their arrival. Through partnerships with driving schools in Vietnam, they ensure that candidates undergo practical driving training before immigration, thereby enhancing the sustainability of their programs.
Conclusion
As Tetra Shift and Daiwa Transport navigate this new landscape of skilled foreign labor in Japan's transportation sector, they set an inspiring precedent for the potential of inclusive growth and diversity within the industry. Interested companies can reach out to Tetra Shift to learn more about their recruitment and support services.
For further information:
- - Company Name: Tetra Shift Co., Ltd.
- - Headquarters: 2-17-8 Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo, 4th Floor, Tensho Ikebukuro Annex Building
- - Joint CEOs: Sora Fujiwara, Masayuki Ishitani
- - Business Focus: Textbook development, foreign human resources, assistance for foreign licenses, etc.
- - Email: [email protected]
- - Website: tetra-s.co.jp
Topics Business Technology）
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