Abstract: In embodiments, a method positions and aligns an autonomous tractor coupling with an articulated trailer located in a pick-up spot. A staging path that terminates at a staging point corresponding to the pick-up spot is determined, and the tractor is controlled to follow the staging path to the staging point and then couple with the trailer. In embodiments, a method positions and aligns an autonomous tractor coupled to an articulated trailer in preparation for the tractor to reverse the trailer into a drop-off spot. A staging path having a shape and a staging point is determined, and the autonomous tractor is controlled to follow the staging path to the staging point. The staging path is shaped such that, after following the staging path to the staging point, the tractor and trailer are positioned for reversing into the drop-off spot.