Light Truck Drivers
Overview
Light truck drivers operate smaller commercial vehicles to deliver goods and packages to businesses and homes. They handle everything from loading cargo and checking inventory to navigating routes using GPS technology and maintaining detailed delivery logs. This job requires a regular driver's license (not a commercial one), good organizational skills, and the ability to work independently while interacting with customers. Many drivers enjoy the variety of seeing different places and the flexibility of working outside an office environment.
Did you know?
Most positions require a clean driving record and may need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) depending on vehicle weight and DOT regulations.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$43,512.55 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Management of Material Resources
Key Responsibilities
- Load and unload trucks, vans, or automobiles.
- Verify the contents of inventory loads against shipping papers.
- Present bills and receipts and collect payments for goods delivered or loaded.
- Read maps and follow written or verbal geographic directions.
- Turn in receipts and money received from deliveries.
- Obey traffic laws and follow established traffic and transportation procedures.
- Drive vehicles with capacities under three tons to transport materials to and from specified destinations, such as railroad stations, plants, residences, offices, or within industrial yards.
- Use and maintain the tools or equipment found on commercial vehicles, such as weighing or measuring devices.
- Inspect and maintain vehicle supplies and equipment, such as gas, oil, water, tires, lights, or brakes, to ensure that vehicles are in proper working condition.
- Report any mechanical problems encountered with vehicles.
- Report delays, accidents, or other traffic and transportation situations to bases or other vehicles, using telephones or mobile two-way radios.
- Perform emergency repairs, such as changing tires or installing light bulbs, fuses, tire chains, or spark plugs.
- Maintain records, such as vehicle logs, records of cargo, or billing statements, in accordance with regulations.
Career Considerations
Licensing and Regulatory Requirements
Most positions require a clean driving record and may need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) depending on vehicle weight and DOT regulations.
Physical Demands and Safety Risks
The job involves significant physical activity including lifting, loading, and long hours of driving, with potential exposure to traffic accidents and workplace injuries.
Industry Growth and Technology Impact
E-commerce expansion has increased demand for delivery drivers, but automation and route optimization technology are changing job requirements and efficiency expectations.