Heavy Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities A typical workday varies depending on the route, but all heavy truck drivers possess commercial drivers licenses (CDL) and are responsible for efficiently and effectively transporting materials from one location to another. Based on listings we analyzed, core duties include: Transport Heavy Loads Heavy truck drivers transport heavy loads within their assigned route or territory in compliance with rules and regulations for transporting materials. They determine whether their vehicle complies with weight and height limits on bridges and tunnels and change their plans if needed. Maintain Records Heavy truck drivers maintain excellent records of materials picked up and delivered, along with miles driven, tolls paid, and other activities while on the road. For long-haul drivers, this also includes maintaining records of stops and keeping detailed records of miles driven, since heavy truck drivers are frequently paid on a per-mile basis. Heavy truck drivers also provide proof of delivery, entering information into computer systems. Plan Routes and Schedules Heavy truck drivers also need to plan routes and driving schedules, particularly for long-haul trips. In this aspect of the role, heavy truck drivers may use GPS technology to outline routes and determine the number of miles they can cover in a day, and may also need to consider factors such as weight limits, hazardous materials regulations, weather, and traffic. A heavy truck driver also needs some level of familiarity with their route so they can make adjustments while driving. Conduct Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance In this role, heavy truck drivers are also responsible for inspecting and maintaining their vehicles before driving, while on the road, and after making deliveries. They may also be responsible for regular maintenance, inspections, and emergency repairs. Heavy truck drivers also need to report any accidents or delays to their supervisors and keep detailed records of vehicle maintenance, inspections, and repairs to ensure that their trucks remain safe and legal to drive. Coordinate Activities with Dispatchers Heavy truck drivers coordinate with dispatchers and other logistics personnel while driving their routes. They frequently provide updates on delivery timelines, routes, miles driven, and breaks taken. Frequently, heavy truck drivers make a delivery and a pickup at the same location, logging this information and updating dispatchers to ensure that delivery schedules and timelines are maintained. Heavy Truck Driver Skills and Qualifications Heavy truck drivers are excellent drivers, able to safely operate their trucks to deliver loads that weigh several tons. Companies hire candidates who have CDL licenses, along with the following skills: Driving and vehicle operation a heavy truck driver safely operates and maneuvers a truck carrying loads weighing more than three tons; a clean driving record, the ability to drive for hours, and excellent driving skills are necessary Route logistics heavy truck drivers are comfortable planning and altering routes to make deliveries and pickups efficiently and according to schedule Vehicle maintenance heavy truck drivers have a solid grasp on vehicle inspection and maintenance, ensuring their trucks remain safe and efficient while conducting deliveries Time management managing a schedule is important for heavy truck drivers, as well as ensuring that hours worked are within limits set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Verbal communication heavy truck drivers should be able to effectively communicate with dispatchers, logistics personnel, and team members at pickup and delivery locations
