Truck Driver Job Description

Job Brief:

As a Truck Driver, you will be responsible for driving trucks or other heavy vehicles to transport cargo over short or long distances. Your role involves loading and unloading goods, adhering to traffic regulations, and maintaining vehicle safety and cleanliness.

Responsibilities:

• Safely operate commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, or delivery vehicles to transport goods or materials between locations, following specified routes and schedules.
• Inspect vehicles before and after trips, performing pre-trip and post-trip inspections to check for mechanical issues, safety hazards, and compliance with regulations.
• Load and unload cargo onto trucks, ensuring proper securing and handling of goods to prevent damage or loss during transit.
• Plan routes and logistics for efficient and timely delivery, considering factors such as traffic conditions, weather, and delivery schedules.
• Communicate with dispatchers, shippers, and customers to coordinate pickup and delivery schedules, update delivery status, and address any issues or delays.
• Adhere to traffic laws, regulations, and safety standards while driving, including speed limits, hours of service, and weight restrictions.
• Maintain accurate records of mileage, fuel consumption, and delivery activities, completing logbooks, trip reports, and delivery documents as required.
• Monitor vehicle performance and maintenance needs, reporting any mechanical problems or defects to maintenance staff for repair and servicing.
• Handle paperwork and documentation related to shipments, such as bills of lading, delivery receipts, and shipping manifests, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with loading and unloading activities at pickup and delivery locations, using forklifts, pallet jacks, or other equipment as needed.
• Maintain cleanliness and tidiness of trucks, cabs, and trailers, conducting regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure safe and hygienic working conditions.
• Follow company policies, procedures, and safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and practicing safe driving practices.
• Provide excellent customer service to clients and customers, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring satisfaction with delivery services.
• Remain alert and attentive while driving, staying focused on the road and surroundings to avoid accidents, hazards, and collisions.
• Attend training sessions, safety meetings, and professional development programs to enhance driving skills, knowledge of regulations, and compliance with industry standards.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications or training in commercial driving is preferred.
• Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements (e.g., Class A, Class B) and clean driving record.
• Proven experience as a truck driver or commercial vehicle operator, with a good driving record and knowledge of safe driving practices.
• Familiarity with DOT regulations, hours of service rules, and commercial vehicle inspection requirements.
• Physical fitness and stamina to handle long hours of driving, loading and unloading cargo, and performing manual labor as needed.
• Excellent driving skills, including maneuvering, backing up, and operating vehicles in various road and weather conditions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with customers, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in completing paperwork, logs, and documentation related to deliveries and vehicle maintenance.
• Dependability and reliability, with a commitment to punctuality, safety, and adherence to schedules and deadlines.
• Positive attitude, teamwork mentality, and willingness to work independently or as part of a team to accomplish delivery goals.

Required Skills:

• Safe driving practices
• Route planning
• Customer service
• Vehicle maintenance
• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Physical stamina
• Adaptability

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you call a truck driver?

A truck driver is commonly referred to as a "truck driver," "lorry driver" (in some regions), or simply a "driver" when specifically driving trucks or large commercial vehicles.