Local truck drivers transport goods over short distances. In most cases they carry their loads from terminals to wholesale or retail dealers. The duties vary, depending on the kind of truck driven. Generally, local truck drivers load and unload their trucks themselves. Sometimes they work with helpers.
For a local truck driver most days begin at the terminal. There drivers are given their assignments for the day and their delivery forms. They check their own trucks to make certain that they are in good repair. Drivers are often expected to make small repairs on their trucks when necessary. Sometimes the loading of the trucks is done by platform workers. The goods are carefully arranged, often in the order of delivery, which makes the goods easier to unload.
At each customer's address, the truck driver unloads the goods that the customer has ordered. Then the driver has the customer sign receipts and freight bills. In some cases drivers receive payment directly from the customer.
Local truck drivers drive two kinds of trucks: heavy trucks and light trucks that weigh less than 3 tons. Light trucks are often straight trucks, such as the kind milk delivery workers drive, with the body and engine mounted on the same frame. Cement mixers and clump trucks are examples of heavy trucks. Drivers of heavy trucks must know how to operate the pedals, levers, and other controls. Very heavy items are usually moved with the aid of hoists or some other equipment.
Most local drivers work for businesses that deliver their own products, such as department stores, meat packers, wholesale distributors, and construction companies. Many others are employed by local for hire operators, or trucking companies that serve the general public or specific companies. Still other local drivers are employed by the federal government, the U.S. Postal Service, and states and municipalities.
Many local truck drivers are self employed. Drivers who own one or two trucks account for a sizable number of the local for hire trucking businesses.
Education and Training
Requirements for local truck drivers are different in each firm and depend on the kind of truck driven. Generally, companies look for drivers who are in good physical condition. Drivers should be able to lift heavy objects. Although schooling is not required, many drivers have had from 2 to 4 years of high school. School courses in auto mechanics or driver education are helpful. Most companies want drivers who are at least 21 years old. Drivers should also be good with cars and machines. A good driving record helps too.
In most states you need a chauffeur's license to get a job. The company may test your knowledge of safety laws and driving skills. You must also have a physical examination.
Once you are hired there is little if any job training. Some companies give a 1- to 2-day course. Most often, however, new drivers ride with experienced drivers to get a sense of the job. Drivers of special trucks get extra help from drivers who know the truck well.
Getting the Job
You can apply directly to the hiring office of trucking companies. Sometimes driver openings are listed with state or private employment agencies. Newspapers also carry ads for truck drivers.
Sometimes new drivers are put on an extra list. Drivers on this list are asked to work when regular drivers are sick or on vacation. Extra drivers get regular routes as soon as there are openings. In most cases this happens fairly quickly.
Employment Outlook
There are several ways for local truck drivers to advance. After many years of driving, some truck drivers may go on to become dispatchers or supervisors. But there are generally few such openings. More often local drivers turn to driving heavy or special trucks and then move on to driving long distance trucks. Some local drivers even begin their own trucking companies.
The job outlook for local truckers is expected to be good. An increase in freight traffic will create more jobs. However, many people are attracted to this field, so applicants will face stiff competition.
Working Conditions
Local truck drivers usually work a 40 hour week. Some drivers work 48 hours a week over a 6 day period. They receive extra pay for working more than 40 hours a week. Often drivers must make deliveries either early in the morning or during the night. This is most often the case for drivers carrying foods for bakeries and grocery stores. A few drivers have new routes to cover each day. Most, however, drive the same routes every day.
Local drivers must make their deliveries in all kinds of weather. They also drive during rush hours. Their work can be very tiring. However, local drivers are home every night, whereas long haul truckers may be on the road for days. Local truck drivers are also relatively free of supervision. Many local drivers are unionized.
Earnings and Benefits
Hourly rates of pay depend on several factors, such as the kind of truck driven and the location of the company. Currently, the average salary for local truckers is about $8.50 to $15 an hour. Local drivers of tractor trailer trucks average about $14 an hour.
Many local truck drivers receive life and health insurance and pension plans. They also get paid holidays and vacations of from 1 to 4 weeks a year.
